Timeless Mysteries

Another trip of splendid contrasts. From Thailand's northern cultural heritage and the jungle park and beaches of the south to the hustle and bustle of the great centres of Bangkok, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The tour begins in the Thai capital Bangkok, before journeying by night train to Chiang Mai in the north for trekking by foot and on elephant back. Then we head south to the Khao Sok National Park to explore its tropical rainforest, followed by the sparkling waters and white sandy beaches of Krabi or Koh Samui, and snorkelling, diving and cruising offshore. We start early for the long journey to Malaysia and drive to the scenic island state of Penang with its original Chinese atmosphere. Explore the town by rickshaws, travel on a funicular, or shop in brightly lit night bazaars. Trek through the jungle to a waterfall; relax, swim or canoe. Next, it's on to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital, with its old colonial architecture set among the gleaming new high-rise office blocks. Finally, a night train takes us to the financially successful island of Singapore at the southern end of the Malay Peninsular.