Multicultural Discoveries from Malaysia to Thailand

Nicknamed the Garden City, Singapore stretches across Malaysia's southern-most region. Experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of this city-state for yourself at the Marina Bay. No too far away is the historic centre, offering up a unique smorgasbord of neoclassical buildings and contemporary towers. Decked out in topiary, the pavements of Orchard Road are also home to countless shopping centres. The colourful markets in Chinatown and Little India are the perfect opportunity to quell hunger pangs in a hawker centre, one of the city's traditional snack bars. Between the two districts, get a slice of history with a trip to the Raffles dock. It was here that Englishman Sir Raffles, the founder of the city, is said to have arrived one fateful day in January 1819.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

The leading British trading post of the Far East in the 19th century, this tiny island has a unique atmosphere of both East and West. Known as the “Pearl of the East” in the past, for its many trades of spice, fabrics, and tin, Penang has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Malaysia. George Town, its capital, is home to an extremely rich historical heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to discover the Blue Mansion, a real architectural marvel that blends traditional Chinese style with eastern elements.

In the district of Ko Lanta in southern Thailand, Koh Rok island is actually two uninhabited twin islands, Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai. In the heart of a protected national park, Koh Rok Nok presents authentic scenery with lush vegetation, unusual coral reefs and surprising cliffs. At the island’s magnificent, crystal-clear beaches in the east, you will be able to have a wonderful time swimming or discovering the underwater world, brimming with myriad, rather friendly colourful fish.

Langkawi Island or Pulau Langkawi, also known as the “Malaysian paradise”, is the largest island in the eponymous archipelago. Composed of a group of 104 mostly uninhabited islands sitting atop the Andaman Sea, the archipelago, listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is brimming with natural wonders. Vast beaches of white sand line the contours of this island. Inland, it features jungle-covered hills, picturesque rice fields, ancient rock formations, and spectacular mountain peaks. The island is also home to several factories processing gamat, a sea cucumber used to produce a cream sought after for its medicinal and cosmetic virtues.

Off the beaten path, spend an unforgettable moment on a little-known beach. With your feet in the water, let the murmur of the waves gently soothe you and the tropical heat envelop you as time stands still for you in this heavenly setting. Enjoy water-based activities or relax on the fine sand during this day entirely devoted to delighting the senses.

From Lumut, you’ll be able to access the natural and cultural treasures of the State of Perak. As you travel through its luxurious landscapes of mangroves, hills, rice fields, and rivers edged with villages and waterfalls, you’ll be able to discover the local agricultural, culinary and artisanal traditions. This region has managed to conserve a rich architectural heritage with multiple influences that blend Asian, Oriental and European traditions. Also be sure to visit an orang-utan rehabilitation and conservation centre.

Lying along the shores of the eponymous Strait, Malacca City has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A witness of the maritime traffic between Asia and the West, the city is inextricably linked to the trade of spices and silk. This cultural oasis will show you the history of a fascinating ancient civilisation, the Baba Nyonya, the descendants of Chinese immigrants who married Malay women. In a Peranakan house in Chinatown, you will discover the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, which reproduces the interior of a traditional elegant home from the 19th century. The Baba Nyonya were wealthy traders who liked to indulge their taste for sumptuous furniture made from teak and mother-of-pearl, rare jewels and silk brocade.

Nicknamed the Garden City, Singapore stretches across Malaysia's southern-most region. Experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of this city-state for yourself at the Marina Bay. No too far away is the historic centre, offering up a unique smorgasbord of neoclassical buildings and contemporary towers. Decked out in topiary, the pavements of Orchard Road are also home to countless shopping centres. The colourful markets in Chinatown and Little India are the perfect opportunity to quell hunger pangs in a hawker centre, one of the city's traditional snack bars. Between the two districts, get a slice of history with a trip to the Raffles dock. It was here that Englishman Sir Raffles, the founder of the city, is said to have arrived one fateful day in January 1819.

Itineraries are subject to change.