Cultural Capitals of Asia
Hong Kong + Bangkok + Angkor Wat + Singapore

On arrival in Hong Kong, you’ll be warmly greeted by your private guide and chauffeured into the heart of this vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Upon reaching the city center, you’ll check in to your choice of hotel.

This morning your private guide, a savvy city resident, will be waiting to show you the highlights and hidden facets of their hometown. Your exploration begins as you board the iconic Star Ferry! Cross Victoria Harbor and take in the impressive city skyline as your in-the-know guide shares information and insight. Step off on Hong Kong Island for a walking tour through Central, the city’s bustling business and financial center. Marvel at striking architectural landmarks like I.M. Pei’s China Bank Tower and learn how ancient Feng Shui principles still guide Hong Kong’s urban planners and architects.

Hop aboard one of the city’s double-decker trams, an essential part of island life for more than a century and then explore by foot in Sheung Wan where you’ll see traditional herbal markets and learn about Chinese medicine. Continuing along world-famous Hollywood where generations-old shop houses have been transformed into some of the city’s trendiest cafes, galleries and boutiques. Visit Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest in Hong Kong, and then sit down to a traditional Dim Sum lunch in one of your guide’s favorite restaurants. Delve into layers of architectural and cultural history at the unique PMQ Complex and then join city residents along Graham Street. For nearly 200 years, this is where locals have come to buy their daily staples – everything from fruits and vegetables to preserved tofu, duck eggs and condiments. End your sightseeing on a high note as you ride the Peak Tram to the top of Victoria Peak – where you’ll have breathtaking views of the city skyline, Victoria Harbor and distant vistas of green hills and offshore islands. After sightseeing, you’ll be escorted back to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy as you wish. Meals B+L
 

Today you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your own personal interests and to tailor your stay in this captivating city. Just choose one of these included tours. Meals: B

Discover the Arts of Hong Kong: Visit Wyndham Street and Hollywood Road where most of Hong Kong Island’s antique shops are bunched Continue to Cat Street where you can find such treasures, within its fantastic congregation of antique dealers, curio merchants and art galleries. Next visit Liang Yi Museum. The four-story museum is home to one of the world's largest and best curated collections of Chinese antique furniture, made of the treasured materials huanghuali and zitan, from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visit an architectural icon, H Queens Building, home to non-traditional spaces for exhibitions and promoting art and culture. Visit to Gagosian, the largest gallery in the historical Pedder Building. 
 
Treasures of Kowloon Tour: This tour reveals some fascinating Hong Kong heritage and starts with a visit to a charming parkland setting for a Qing Dynasty fort – The Kowloon Walled City Park, remembered today as a haven of crime and debauchery. Visit one of Hong Kong’s most popular temples, Wong Tai Sin, which specializes in fortune-telling. The temple’s claim to ‘make every wish come true upon request’ might have something to do with its popularity. Final stop at the Chi Lin Nunnery, Tang dynasty-style Buddhist temple. The grand and elegant complex will surely become one of China's great cultural attractions in the years to come. 

Hong Kong Foodie Tour: Taste your way through the old neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan. Along the 3.5-hour food tour, discover some of Hong Kong’s favorite foods as you stroll along Hong Kong’s side streets and learn about how this area evolved from a fishing village to the colonial administration district to today’s international financial center. You will also learn about what to order and how to order like a true local. 

This morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok, Thailand. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and chauffeured to your choice of deluxe or luxury hotel in the heart of this vibrant and cosmopolitan city. The rest of this day is yours to relax or explore as you wish.

This morning’s privately guided sightseeing tour will explore the rich history and enduring Buddhist traditions of this thoroughly modern metropolis. At Wat Traimit, a Buddhist temple founded in the early 13th century, you’ll behold an enormous solid-gold Buddha image that towers nearly 10 feet tall and weighs more than 5 tons. Continue to Wat Pho, one of the city’s largest temples. In addition to being one of the country’s oldest institutions of learning, this spectacular complex is home to beautiful murals, ornate architectural detail and an enormous 150-foot-long gilded image of a reclining Buddha. Of course, no tour of Bangkok would be complete without visiting the magnificent Grand Palace with its glittering halls and pavilions. At Wat Phra Kaew, home to the famed Emerald Buddha, you’ll discover one of Thailand’s most venerated temples. After sightseeing, you’ll be chauffeured back to your hotel where the rest of your afternoon and evening are at leisure. Meals B

Today you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your own personal interests and to tailor your stay in this captivating city. Just choose one of these included tours. Meals: B

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:  Depart your hotel early this morning, traveling with your private car, driver and guide to Ratchaburi Province. Then continue to the colorful Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where merchants sell their goods from traditional wooden boats and in tiny shops along the waterway. Before returning to Bangkok, you’ll also explore the nearby Lao Tuk Luck Market which has changed little over its 100-year history. With cultural insights from your engaging guide, this excursion visits 3 distinctive markets for a fascinating look into daily life outside of the capital. 

Blue Elephant Cooking Class: Blue Elephant is not only home to one of the city's finest Thai restaurants, but this gorgeous colonial house also offers a luxurious cooking school too, proving popular with students of all ages and backgrounds. Don your apron and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on guided discovery of Thai culinary secrets. Your trained instructor goes through all the essential steps, from how to prepare the fresh produce to the intricate cooking techniques that make Thai food so special. Of course, after learning how to make the classics - including Som Tam, Tom Yum, Pad Thai and Green Curry - sit down and sample your culinary masterpieces in the restaurant & quaint downstairs dining room. Take home a recipe book and a certificate of your achievement at the end of your class. 

Ancient Ayutthaya Explorer:  Meet your guide in the hotel lobby after breakfast and depart the city in your privately chauffeured vehicle. Your destination is Ayutthaya where vast ruins bear witness to the splendor of the ancient Kingdom of Siam that flourished from 135o until 1767. Here in this erstwhile royal capital, you’ll explore some of Ayutthaya’s most significant sites as your experienced guide shares history and insight. Among the highlights you’ll see today are the lovely Bang Pa-in Palace and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, one of the holiest temples in the ancient royal city with well-preserved stupas that attest to its former glory. After lunch, enjoy a short river cruise to discover more of this UNESCO World Heritage Site c before returning to your hotel in Bangkok. 

This morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your choice of hotel. This afternoon, our expert guide will show you the imposing majesty of Angkor Wat – the largest temple complex in the world. Late in the day, you’ll be led to a prime vantage point to witness the sun set over the jungle ruins of Angkor – a magnificent and unforgettable spectacle. Meals B

Embark on a captivating journey this morning as we delve into the remnants of a glorious civilization. Our exploration begins at the majestic Angkor Thom, followed by the enchanting Bayon temple, famed for its enigmatic smiling faces. Next, we venture to the recently restored Thommanon, a smaller temple offering exquisite Apsara carvings and a tranquil atmosphere. We'll continue to Ta Prohm, one of Angkor's largest temples. 
 
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we'll delve deeper into Khmer history. This afternoon, our exploration concludes at Preah Khan, also known as the "Sacred Sword." Built by King Jayavarman VII, this expansive monastic complex functioned as a center of learning and religion. Tour continues with exploring the impactful work of non-profit organizations and social enterprises in Cambodia. Begin at Hero Rats, where APOPO's remarkable scent detection rats aid in detecting landmines and tuberculosis, saving countless lives. Delve into the fascinating world of these intelligent creatures and learn about the charity's vital mission. 

This evening, embark on an exciting culinary journey in Siem Reap aboard the iconic "Remork" or "Tuk Tuk," immersing yourself in the city's vibrant food scene. Begin at a bustling local market, brimming with fresh produce. Indulge in succulent grilled meats and savory noodles, complemented by chilled local beers. As night falls, explore the lively night market, sampling Khmer delicacies amidst the bustling ambiance. Expand your palate with crispy crickets or tender frog legs. Conclude with a lavish dinner and Khmer rice wine tasting at a renowned restaurant owned by a visionary Cambodian chef. Whether continuing the festivities or retiring to your hotel, cherish the unforgettable memories of this immersive culinary adventure. This tour offers an authentic glimpse into Cambodian life, celebrating the resilience and cultural richness of its villages and people. Meals: B+L+D

 

Today you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your own personal interests and to tailor your stay in this captivating city. Just choose one of these included tours. Meals: B

Tonle Sap - Kompong Phluk Stilt Village:  Embark on a scenic drive to the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and set sail on a cruise to Kompong Phluk, an isolated Khmer community comprising three villages elevated on wooden stilts, towering from six to eight meters above the water's surface. Home to approximately 3,000 residents, who cultivate fish and vegetables on floating platforms, this unique settlement offers a glimpse into traditional Khmer life. Traverse through mangrove forests, a thriving ecosystem sustained by flooded soil, and keep watch for diverse wildlife, including birds and the lively crab-eating macaques! Note: Not available from mid of February - July (Low level water season)
 
Cooking Class at Organic Farm:  Indulge in a delectable, half-day escapade in Siem Reap at an organic farm supported by Agrisud International, dedicated to fostering economic growth through small family enterprises in agriculture. Begin with a lively visit to a local fresh market, immersing yourself in the vibrant morning rush.

Then, venture to the organic farm to handpick fresh ingredients, cultivated with care and free from synthetic additives. Under the guidance of skilled local chefs, craft Khmer culinary delights while gaining insights into Cambodian culture. Relish a sumptuous lunch made from the morning's harvest before returning to your hotel. This unique experience offers an authentic taste of Cambodia's countryside, complementing your Angkor Wat journey perfectly. 
 
Siem Reap Monk Blessing & Artisan D'Angkor:  Receive a soothing monk's blessing in this unique half-day tour. Hop on a Cambodian remork (tuk tuk) and enjoy a short drive to a Siem Reap pagoda. Here, chat with the monks before receiving a personal blessing. The 10-minute, traditional Khmer ceremony involves having various waters poured over the receiver - a relaxing and invigorating process believed to cleanse bad spirits and bring good luck for the year ahead. A fascinating insight into the more traditional side of life in Siem Reap.

Next, head on to a bustling local market and have the chance to pick up a selection of authentic foods and local handicrafts before visiting a local development project, Les Artisans d' Angkor, that's designed to teach young adults the process of stone carving, wood carving and lacquer application. A wonderful reminder that progress and traditional crafts can work together for the development of the community. A rare experience that will offer a unique insight into local life. 

Enjoy the morning at leisure until your car and driver take you to the airport for your onward journey. Upon arrival at the airport or cruise terminal, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted by private car to your choice of hotel. Our outstanding first-class and luxury hotels have been carefully selected for their evocative ambiance, attentive service and excellent city-center locations. Meals: B

Begin your guided exploration aboard a traditional Singaporean bumboat. Cruising along the historic Singapore River with your own personal native-born guide is the best way to get acquainted with the city’s vibrant modern spirit and its rich seafaring history. It was here along the riverbanks where Sir Stamford Raffles established the first trading port. Near the impressive Esplanade Bridge that spans the mouth of the Singapore River, you’ll step off in Merlion Park to see the city’s mascot, the Merlion. Continue with your private car, driver and guide through the impressive Civic District and past the Cricket Club, Parliament and City Hall. A guided visit through Thian Hock Keng Temple reveals one of the city’s oldest and most impressive Chinese temples. Built in 1839 to honor the Goddess of the Sea, this architectural treasure of stone and tile is adorned with dragons, phoenixes and other ornate carvings. Your final stop today will be at the National Orchid Garden. Housed within the Singapore Botanic Garden, this resplendent display features more than 60,000 colorful and delicate plants with 400 unique species of orchids and more than 2,000 hybrids. After returning to your hotel, the balance of your afternoon is free to explore and enjoy as you wish. Meals B

Our private car and driver will be waiting to escort you to the airport or cruise ship terminal for your onward journey. Meals B