Golden Islands of the Indian Ocean Aboard Europa 2

Our adventure begins in Singapore, the steamy air enfolding around us. Our hotel, Raffles Singapore, is the finest in the city. Much like a sanctuary, it shelters us from the clamorous streets. Idle away the next morning in the glamorous confines of our residence before we start with a private tour of the National Orchid Garden before seeing the city from the delectable perspective of the Singapore GOURMETbus. While dinner on high at 1-Altitude preludes Your World experiences to view Chinatown and Little India or the wildlife of Singapore Zoo. Then we toast all we’ve seen with high tea before boarding the Europa 2.

Singapore sparkles in spectacular fashion as we relax aboard the Europa 2 or enjoy some retail therapy with a local guide on shore. Evening finds us bound for Malaysia where we’ll dock in Port Klang to access the nation’s capital via Your World experiences. Explore Kuala Lumpur’s authentic side with coffee and cakes in a local’s home and a visit to Little India, or travel to the nearby Batu Caves with a stop to see the Petronas Twin Towers.

On the island state of Penang, step beyond the palm-lined shore on a Your World experience. Perhaps weave through the streets of World Heritage-listed George Town by trishaw or travel by boat to the remote fishing village of Kuala Sungai Pinang and Pantai Kerachut beach. Then we explore the verdant Langkawi archipelago, paddling along the dramatic coast of Kilim Marine Park or traversing its southern region by boat, before a beach barbecue.

On Thailand’s dazzling Andaman Coast, we moor near the quiet island of Koh Lanta to trawl for fresh discoveries. With Your World experiences, either travel to a fishing village and paddle aboard kayaks around a fish farm, before a Thai cooking class, or visit the old town of Koh Lanta. A day at sea is then the time to book into the spa, take a cooking class, attend a performance or lecture, or to dine at one of the seven specialty restaurants.

Time drifts by as we find ourselves on Havelock Island where paradise unfurls exquisitely. With our feet in the sand, we have the entire day to do as we please. Only to rediscover our land legs before we take the seas once more, charting a course across the Bay of Bengal as we cruise towards the coast of Sri Lanka.

Your World Experiences introduce us to unique impressions of Hambantota and Galle. Cruising into Hambantota, join pilgrims on a discovery of Sri Lanka’s holiest city, Kataragama, roam Bundala National Park in search of rare birdlife, or visit orphaned elephants and take a Jeep safari at Udawalawe National Park. While Galle is revealed on a walking tour including Galle Fort and the city’s ramparts, or a visit to Handunugoda Tea Museum.

Colombo offers discovery and reorientation. Once we’ve toured the city, and the P Sara Oval with an ex-Sri Lankan cricketer, we farewell our ship for The Galle Face Hotel. Our travels take us to Ingiriya Tea Plantation or the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, before returning to focus on the city’s art scene with architect Geoffrey Bawa, explore the Pettah district or join a cooking class. We’ve arranged a late check-out so you can freshen up before tonight’s Farewell Dinner and transfer to the airport.