Heritage and Hidden Paradises of Southeast Asia

Singapore is a dynamic, multicultural city-state known for its stunning skyline, world-class attractions, and blend of modernity and tradition. Home to a population of Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities, the diversity of this destination is reflected in the culinary scene, festivals, and the coexistence of Hindu temples, mosques, Christian churches, and Buddhist temples in the same city. As a safe and friendly destination, Singapore is ideal for families with kids to experience a unique mix of “concrete jungle and real jungle” and plenty of interesting activities like educational tours, science centers, and zoos.

Siem Reap is the gateway to Cambodia’s vast and spectacular temples of Angkor undoubtedly one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. Constructed between the 9th and 15th centuries, these magnificent temples were once the grounds for the Khmer Empire’s capitals. The Angkor Archaeological Park covers around 400 sq km, and the largest, most well-known temple is Angkor Wat. The mysterious architectural techniques used to construct these temples still amaze the world today. Apart from the temples, one can take a Vespa ride and weave through the streets with a local guide on a street food tour. Head into the countryside for a cooking class, cycle or even ride a quad bike along the backroads, passing villages, paddy fields and taking in a more peaceful side to the city. Further afield is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake - the Tonlé Sap. Cruise past the villages of stilt houses rising from the lake, such as Kampong Phluk town that soars above the water in the dry season and sits on top of the water in the rainy season. Welcoming 2.6 m tourists annually, Siem Reap is one of the biggest tourism hubs in Southeast Asia. From exploring ancient temples and floating villages to indulging in exquisite Khmer cuisine and relaxing in luxurious resorts, the town promises an unforgettable experience that blends cultural immersion with modern comforts.

Buzzing, humid and energetic, Bangkok is the city where magnificent temples, historic markets, skyscrapers and rooftop bars create an intoxicating vibe that's hard to resist. The city is a mesmerizing blend of old and new, East and West, and dizzying contradictions. Historical sites next to vibrant nightlife areas, bustling markets near modern shopping malls, and street food vendors close to world-class restaurants. Hence, the city is still fascinating for its traditional culture. Saffron-robed monks weave among the morning rush hour to collect alms; communities dwell in stilt houses by the Chao Phraya River, eking out a living using centuries-old skills. A city tour in Bangkok often begins in Rattanakosin, drawn by the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. It's here the Chao Phraya River separates the city proper from its old capital Thonburi, a spot where quitet, narrow canals and floating markets illustrate why Bangkok was once called 'Venice of the East'. East of the canals is modern Bangkok, a hive of activity with countless businesses, markets and shopping malls handily connect by the BTS Skytrain. As a city that feels alive day and night, Bangkok is the destination for all, from foodies, shopaholics, culture seekers, history lovers, urban explorers, even party animals. That makes the well-known Southeast Asian gateway one of the world's most visited cities.

Fame as 'the rose of the North', Chiang Mai is an alluring city brimming with glittering temples, lush jungle, delicious streetfood and the bustle of lively markets. As the gateway to the mountains in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has grown far beyond the medieval city walls that once marked it as the ancient capital of Lanna Kingdom. Nevertheless, its temple-lined backstreets still conjure up the glory of the old empire and it is still possible to get a feel for Chiang Mai's Thai culture and traditions. Ancient shrines and traditional wooden houses jostle for space with boutique hotels, stylish restaurants and trendy bars of this northern town as well as its welcoming customs and laidback pace of life leads to a rising footfall of enthusiastic tourists with each year. Home to a vast number of national parks, lush tropical jungles, hidden waterfalls, stunning rivers, and animal sanctuaries, Chiang Mai is an unmissable stop-off point for many outdoor adventure-seeking travellers. From trekking to the villages of Thailand's hill tribes to other adrenaline activities including mountain biking, white-water rafting, rock climbing expeditions and zip-lining through the rainforest canopy that makes Chiang Mai a perfect getaway.

Kuala Lumpur is a diversity cultural melting pot, where jade-topped Chinese gates open out onto palm-lined squares, Indian restaurants serve banana leaf curries in marigold-scented alleyways, and old-fashioned Malay villages lie squeezed between the skyscrapers. Founded in 1857 under British rule as a tin mining outpost, Kuala Lumpur is fairly new as far as Malaysian cities go and does not have the rich history like Georgetown or Malacca. After a couple of decades of fluctuation, Kuala Lumpur began to prosper and was made capital of the Federated Malay States in 1896. Today, Kuala Lumpur is the capital of one of the economic powerhouses of Asia. Kuala Lumpurites come in all sorts. Malaysian and Chinese make up 80 percent of the population, and about 7 percent are Indians. Among the rest are offspring of intermarriages between races. Most Kuala Lumpurites speak at least two languages, one of which is Malay, or Bahasa Malaysia, the national language; some speak up to five – including Chinese and Indian dialects.

Manila is the Philippines' bustling capital city located on the island of Luzon. It is the starting point for all visitors before jumping off to other areas of the country by air or by boat. As a melting pot of cultures with multiple Spanish and Chinese influences, Manila is full of things to see and do, making it a lively destination to explore. Take a step back into the rich history of the Philippines with a walking tour of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila, including visits to Fort Santiago, a citadel used as a defensive fortress built by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, and the Baroque-style San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the country. Stop by Rizal Park, one of the most significant landmarks in the Philippines. The park is named after Dr. Jose Rizal, the country's national hero who was executed in the park grounds, resulting in the flames of the 1896 Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire. Home to the oldest Chinatown in the world, it is well worth spending a day immersing yourself in the Chinese culture and history of the Binondo District. This is a hub for authentic Chinese restaurants, trinkets, and the ultimate place to shop for bargains. Reowning a big contemporary art, there are many galleries, art spaces, design shops, and museums throughout Manila. Graffiti and murals can be seen almost everywhere you look, from building facades to walkways, underpasses, demolished walls, and pavements... This is the way people showcase their perspectives about the country’s culture, history, and even political issues.

El Nido covers an area of about 400 sq km at the northern tip of Palawan Island, featuring striking limestone cliffs, mesmerizing lagoons, and endless beaches in between azure waters. It is the launch pad for the daytime excursions to the surrounding limestone islands of the stunning Bacuit Bay archipelago, such as Simizu, Cadlao, Dilumacad, and Matinloc... Sea kayaking is an eco-friendly way of exploring each island. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the top activities on the bucket list of many travelers, thanks to the abundant marine life and coral reefs around most of the islands. On land, exploring the rainforest in search of waterfalls and exotic flora and fauna species will be rewarding travel experiences. Despite its remote location, El Nido hosts a decent choice of pleasant night spots for you to party or relax in after dark. Whether you spend the night in town or at one of the beaches nearby, you will always find a suitable spot to have a drink and socialize at night. Consider Pukka Bar in town or Republica Sunset Bar on Corong Corong Beach for your chilling time there.

Bohol, the roughly circular and mid-sized island in the Central Philippines, is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and captivating culture. It is home to one of the country's most iconic landmarks: the Chocolate Hills. This geological site is composed of more than a thousand perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling a giant box of chocolates. Climb up to the viewing platform for panoramic views that will leave you in awe. The best vantage points are at the Chocolate Hills Complex or Sagbayan Peak, where you can truly appreciate the vastness of the unique landscape. Close to the hills, catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most adorable creatures, the tiny Philippine tarsier. Weighing only up to five ounces, tarsiers are nocturnal primates with huge eyes and a shy demeanor. Rarely seen in the wild, these smallest and cutest creatures can be spotted up close at the Tarsier Conservation Area. Lush greenery and serene waters await you in the Loboc River. Cruise along the calm and meandering river to experience Bohol’s natural beauty. Some cruises even offer cultural performances, giving you a glimpse into the island’s rich traditions. For underwater enthusiasts, Bohol offers incredible marine life with white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs beckoning on Panglao Island. This island is also the departure point for water adventures like dolphin and whale-watching tours and dive trips in Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary. Go into the deep to swim among the sanctuary’s sea turtles, explore colorful coral gardens, and steep submarine cliffs.

Cebu is a tropical urban center located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, which offers a blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and vibrant urban life. As the oldest city in the country, it boasts a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial period, evident in landmarks such as the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, and the Fort San Pedro, a historic fortification offering a glimpse into Cebu's colonial past. The city is a gateway to more than 150 islands, including the famous Mactan Island known for its pristine beaches and world-class diving locations; the unspoiled Camotes Islands where you can visit caves, beaches, and natural pools; the Nalusuan Island, a marine sanctuary ideal for snorkeling; the Malapascua Island with its thresher shark sightings; and the Oslob village in the south that offers the unique experience of swimming with whale sharks. Designated as a Creative City by UNESCO in 2019, Cebu is also well known as a hub for craftsmanship, creativity, and gastronomy. The city is a host of a variety of colorful and lively festivals throughout the year; nevertheless, nothing beats the beauty and bustling crowd of the Sinulog Festival featuring colorful parades and traditional dance rituals. Considered as an attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers, Cebu offers a perfect balance of urban comforts and natural attractions, from bustling markets and shopping malls to nearby waterfalls and mountains. The local cuisine, highlighted by the Cebuano lechon (roasted pig), is a must-try.