Best of Thailand & Malaysia Itinerary

Make the most of a day in bewitching Bangkok city, a place full of skyscrapers, temples, chaos and calm. Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is a frenetic fusion of tradition and modern. Perhaps visit the towering Turquoise Buddha at Bangkok's Grand Palace or cruise around the city in a tuk-tuk.

Enjoy the tranquillity of Thailand's first capital, Sukhothai, set amid leafy forests, perfumed gardens and fertile rice paddies. A trip to the night market is a real eye-opener - the culinary smorgasbord ranges from fried rice to fried bugs.

Step back in time and tour Sukhothai's fascinating temples by bicycle, stopping off at a local market and then sharing a picnic. Perhaps see the impressive murals of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang or enjoy some pampering at Sukhothai's herbal sauna and massage centre.

Stop by the Elephant Conservation Centre to watch the curious inhabitants frolicking at bath time. Visit Intrepid's long-time village friends and get a first-hand experience of Thai rural life. Be treated to a traditional khantohk dinner accompanied by live music and a dance performance.

Rise early to offer alms to the monks before travelling to Chiang Mai, via relaxing thermal hot springs. Situated at the crossroads of one of South East Asia's most important trade routes, Thailand's northern capital is a legendary centre of ancient culture, adventure, relaxation and shopping. Bike between gold-gilded temples, enjoy a cooking class, take a river tour aboard a bamboo raft or hone haggling skills at the markets.

Before the adventure begins, why not tuck into a pad thai at a local street stall or relax with a traditional Thai massage. Then it's time to escape the city heat with a cruise along Chao Phraya River and a visit to the impressive reclining Buddha.

After an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, travel into the verdant Khao Sok National Park. Spend a night in a rustic hut amid ancient gnarled rainforest trees. Explore this dense and mysterious jungle on foot before cooling off underneath a waterfall.

Sit back and enjoy a local bus ride to Krabi province. Upon arriving at a village homestay, take a walk through the surrounding area and enjoy fine local food and hospitality. This is a wonderful opportunity to absorb some of the daily rituals of Thai culture.

Sun-seekers will fall in love with Krabi's unspoilt beaches; the spectacular limestone cliffs will tempt avid rock climbers, while scuba fans can embark on a Krabi diving adventure.

Take a rickshaw tour through the streets of Georgetown, visiting Fort Cornwallis and Kek Lok Si temple.

Absorb the multicultural mix that is Kuala Lumpur on a half-day city tour. In free time, stroll Dataran Merdeka, shop in Suria KLCC or scale the 272 steps up to the Batu Caves. Be sure to indulge in the myriad tasty food options Kuala Lumpur is famous for.

Get to know the historic port city of Melaka, and admire Chinatown's unique Peranakan architecture from the back of a trishaw.

Arrive in Singapore where the journey ends. While here, why not sip a Singapore Sling in the Raffles Hotel, where the famous drink was invented, or seek out a bargain on Orchard Road.