Classic Malaysia & Thailand Itinerary

The cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia is the first stop, with its mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Perhaps soak up the view from atop the Menara Kuala Lumpur before being treated to a cultural performance and buffet dinner. Be entertained with traditional dances from around the Malaysian Peninsular and Borneo.

Leave urban life behind and travel into the lush and dramatic Cameron Highlands. This area, a former getaway of the colonial British, is a place of tranquillity and a welcomed escape from the humidity of the jungles. Indulge in a steamboat lunch before heading out to tour the verdant tea plantations. Be sure to sample a few cups of steaming local brew.

Travel to Melaka, a former colonial outpost, which retains a distinctive old-world air. Absorb its character on a trishaw ride through its winding streets and sample flavours of the exciting fusion of Chinese and Malay cuisine in a nonya cooking class.

With miles of white, sandy beaches, lush tropical rainforest and plenty of sleepy traditional Malay villages, Pulau Langkawi is the perfect place to get away from it all. Swim with shoals of colourful fish in the Pulau Payar Marine Park, indulge in a barbecue seafood dinner and take a cable car ride to enjoy spectacular views over this tropical haven. Be sure to spend some time channelling holiday vibes while kicking back on a soft, sandy beach.

From its elaborate Indian temples to its Chinese shop houses and statuesque Islamic mosques, Penang is packed with cross-cultural historic attractions. Take time to tour the magnificent Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, poke around the antique shops of Chulia Street or enjoy a final group dinner to celebrate the end of this Malaysian odyssey.

Travel to Thailand and arrive in Bangkok. Bursting with life and colour, Bangkok is a modern city with an ancient heart. Visit the Emerald Buddha, housed beneath the gleaming spires of the Grand Palace. Take a boat trip through the khlongs to witness the remarkable contrast between city and canal-side life.

Travel in Thailand's lush north to Chiang Mai and learn to whip up local delicacies at a Thai cooking class. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride to the ruined city of Wiang Kum Kam to explore its well-preserved ruins. Chat with friendly monks at the Wat Chedi Luang temple complex and a visit the local market. In the evening, climb up to Doi Suthep, a sacred mountain famous for its wonderful copper-plated chedi and its sweeping views out over Thailand's countryside.

Travel to Thailand's countryside, where the rice fields meet the forest and get acquainted with Thailand's second-largest hilltribe group - the H'mong. Admire the embroidered aprons, colourful sashes and silver jewellery worn by many H'mong females and gain a fascinating insight into local customs during a display of Thailand's traditional song and dance.

Nicknamed the Dawn of Happiness, Sukhothai still recalls Siam's golden age with its superb statues, marvellous monuments and lotus flowers in full bloom. Be bowled over by cute baby elephants at the Elephant Conservation Centre and maybe even take a ride on an adult.

Make a sobering visit to Thailand's Hellfire Pass Memorial. Board a train at Nam Tok station - the main terminal of the Death Railway - and take a ride along the historic tracks, passing over the original wooden viaduct, the Bridge on the River Kwai. Afterwards, stop in to see the Jeath War Museum and the Allied War Cemetery.

Returning to Bangkok, there is ample time for some last-minute shopping before a cruise and farewell dinner on the mighty Chao Phraya River.