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InsideOceanviewBalconySuite
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$33,949 USD $339.49 USD per day$44,215 USD $442.15 USD per day$66,592 USD $665.92 USD per day
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Thu, Jan 06, 2022 Melbourne -- 5:00 pmFri, Jan 07, 2022 At Sea -- --Sat, Jan 08, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Jan 09, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Jan 10, 2022 Dunedin 8:00 am 6:00 pmTue, Jan 11, 2022 Akaroa / Christchurch 8:00 am 6:00 pmWed, Jan 12, 2022 Wellington 8:00 am 6:00 pmThu, Jan 13, 2022 Napier 8:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Jan 14, 2022 Tauranga 1:15 pm 10:00 pmSat, Jan 15, 2022 Auckland 8:00 am 9:00 pmSun, Jan 16, 2022 Waitangi 8:00 am 5:00 pmMon, Jan 17, 2022 At Sea -- --Tue, Jan 18, 2022 At Sea -- --Wed, Jan 19, 2022 Sydney 8:00 am --Thu, Jan 20, 2022 Sydney -- 6:00 pmFri, Jan 21, 2022 At Sea -- --Sat, Jan 22, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Jan 23, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Jan 23, 2022 Arlie Beach 8:00 am 6:00 pmMon, Jan 24, 2022 Cairns 1:00 pm --Tue, Jan 25, 2022 Cairns -- 5:00 pmWed, Jan 26, 2022 At Sea -- --Thu, Jan 27, 2022 At Sea -- --Fri, Jan 28, 2022 Darwin 8:30 am 9:00 pmSat, Jan 29, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Jan 30, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Jan 31, 2022 Komodo 7:00 am 4:00 pmTue, Feb 01, 2022 Bali/Benoa 10:00 am --Wed, Feb 02, 2022 Bali/Benoa -- --Thu, Feb 03, 2022 Bali/Benoa -- 11:59 pmFri, Feb 04, 2022 Celukan Bawang, Bali 7:30 am 6:00 pmSat, Feb 05, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Feb 06, 2022 Semarang 6:00 am 7:00 pmMon, Feb 07, 2022 At Sea -- --Tue, Feb 08, 2022 At Sea -- --Wed, Feb 09, 2022 Penang (Georgetown) 8:30 am 6:00 pmThu, Feb 10, 2022 Langkawi 8:00 am 5:30 pmFri, Feb 11, 2022 Port Kelang (for Kuala Lumpur) 8:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Feb 12, 2022 Singapore 8:00 am --Sun, Feb 13, 2022 Singapore -- 6:00 pmMon, Feb 14, 2022 At Sea -- --Tue, Feb 15, 2022 Koh Samui 7:30 am 5:00 pmWed, Feb 16, 2022 Bangkok/Laem Chabang 6:30 am --Thu, Feb 17, 2022 Bangkok/Laem Chabang -- 5:00 pmFri, Feb 18, 2022 Sihanoukville 8:00 am 8:00 pmSat, Feb 19, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Feb 20, 2022 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) 8:30 am --Mon, Feb 21, 2022 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) -- --Tue, Feb 22, 2022 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) -- 3:00 pmWed, Feb 23, 2022 At Sea -- --Thu, Feb 24, 2022 Da Nang 8:00 am 7:00 pmFri, Feb 25, 2022 Hanoi/Hongai 12:00 pm --Sat, Feb 26, 2022 Hanoi/Hongai -- 7:00 pmSun, Feb 27, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Feb 28, 2022 Hong Kong 8:00 am --Tue, Mar 01, 2022 Hong Kong -- 9:00 pmWed, Mar 02, 2022 At Sea -- --Thu, Mar 03, 2022 Taipei/Keelung 7:00 am 10:00 pmFri, Mar 04, 2022 Hualien 8:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Mar 05, 2022 Ishigaki Island 7:00 am 5:30 pmSun, Mar 06, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Mar 07, 2022 Manila 9:00 am --Tue, Mar 08, 2022 Manila -- 6:00 pmWed, Mar 09, 2022 Boracay 7:30 am 6:00 pmThu, Mar 10, 2022 Puerto Princesa 7:30 am 5:00 pmFri, Mar 11, 2022 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 9:00 am 7:00 pmSat, Mar 12, 2022 Bandar Seri Begawan 7:00 am 4:00 pmSun, Mar 13, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Mar 14, 2022 Singapore 8:00 am --Tue, Mar 15, 2022 Singapore -- 7:00 pmWed, Mar 16, 2022 Port Kelang (for Kuala Lumpur) 8:00 am 6:00 pmThu, Mar 17, 2022 Phuket 4:00 pm --Fri, Mar 18, 2022 Phuket -- 6:00 pmSat, Mar 19, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Mar 20, 2022 Yangon 5:00 pm --Mon, Mar 21, 2022 Yangon -- --Tue, Mar 22, 2022 Yangon -- 4:30 pmWed, Mar 23, 2022 At Sea -- --Thu, Mar 24, 2022 At Sea -- --Fri, Mar 25, 2022 Galle 8:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Mar 26, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Mar 27, 2022 Marmagao (Marmugao) 12:00 pm --Mon, Mar 28, 2022 Marmagao (Marmugao) -- 5:00 pmTue, Mar 29, 2022 Mumbai (Bombay) 8:00 am --Wed, Mar 30, 2022 Mumbai (Bombay) -- 6:00 pmThu, Mar 31, 2022 At Sea -- --Fri, Apr 01, 2022 At Sea -- --Sat, Apr 02, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Apr 03, 2022 At Sea -- --Mon, Apr 04, 2022 At Sea -- --Tue, Apr 05, 2022 At Sea -- --Wed, Apr 06, 2022 Al 'Aqabah 7:00 am --Thu, Apr 07, 2022 Al 'Aqabah -- 3:00 pmFri, Apr 08, 2022 Sokhna 7:00 am 10:00 pmSat, Apr 09, 2022 At Sea -- --Sun, Apr 10, 2022 Paphos 8:00 am 5:30 pmMon, Apr 11, 2022 Rhodes 8:00 am 6:00 pmTue, Apr 12, 2022 Heraklion, Crete 8:00 am 6:00 pmWed, Apr 13, 2022 Kusadasi 7:00 am 10:00 pmThu, Apr 14, 2022 Santorini (ThÃra) 7:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Apr 15, 2022 Athens/Piraeus 8:00 am --Sat, Apr 16, 2022 Athens/Piraeus -- --
Port
Port
Arrival Port
Arrival | Departure Thu, Jan 06, 2022
-- | 5:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Tue, Jan 11, 2022
8:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Sat, Jan 15, 2022
8:00 AM | 9:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Wed, Jan 19, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Mon, Jan 24, 2022
1:00 PM | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Jan 28, 2022
8:30 AM | 9:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Mon, Jan 31, 2022
7:00 AM | 4:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Tue, Feb 01, 2022
10:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Wed, Feb 02, 2022
-- | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Feb 04, 2022
7:30 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Thu, Feb 10, 2022
8:00 AM | 5:30 PM
Arrival | Departure Sat, Feb 12, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Mon, Mar 14, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Tue, Mar 15, 2022
-- | 7:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Tue, Feb 15, 2022
7:30 AM | 5:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Wed, Feb 16, 2022
6:30 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Feb 18, 2022
8:00 AM | 8:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Sun, Feb 20, 2022
8:30 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Mon, Feb 21, 2022
-- | --
Arrival | Departure Thu, Feb 24, 2022
8:00 AM | 7:00 PM
Hanoi was moved from Hoa Lu to Dai La by King Ly Thai To (Ly Cong Uan) in 1010. The king's vision of the dragon ascending from the Red river brought on the change of Dai La to Thang Long. At the end of the Tran Dynasty in 1397, the capital city Thang Long was moved to Thanh Hoa-Tay Do (Western Capital) and Thang Long became Dong Do (Eastern Capital). The capital was renamed Dong Quan during the invasion by China in 1407. In 1428, Le Loi liberated Vietnam and renamed Dong Quan to Dong Kinh after 10 year fight. Once again the city was renamed Thang Long in 1527, King Gai Long moved this capital city to Hue in 1802 and changed the meaning of Long from dragon to prosperity. When King Minh Mang came along he renamed the city Ha Noi in 1831 meaning within the river.
Besides Hanoi's beauty, this city also possesses historical findings. One of these findings would be Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Returned Sword). The Lake of the Returned Sword was at one point in time called Luc Thuy or Green Water then changed to Ho Hoan Kiem, based on a similar legend as the Kind Arthur and the Lady of the Lake's legend. After the 10 years of fighting the Chinese and vindicated Vietnam's independence. The priceless sword that King Le Thai possessed was taken away by a large turtle. During a sail on Lake Luc Thuy the turtle appeared, the king pointed the sword at the turtle. The turtle grab onto the sword and disappeared into the lake. Since this sword was of such value the king ordered for the lake to be emptied, but the sword or the turtle was never seen again. Show less
Arrival | Departure Fri, Feb 25, 2022
12:00 PM | --
Arrival | Departure Sat, Feb 26, 2022
-- | 7:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Mon, Feb 28, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Mar 04, 2022
8:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Mon, Mar 07, 2022
9:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Wed, Mar 09, 2022
7:30 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Fri, Mar 11, 2022
9:00 AM | 7:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Thu, Mar 17, 2022
4:00 PM | --
Arrival | Departure Sun, Mar 20, 2022
5:00 PM | --
Arrival | Departure Mon, Mar 21, 2022
-- | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Mar 25, 2022
8:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Tue, Mar 29, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Wed, Apr 06, 2022
7:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Fri, Apr 08, 2022
7:00 AM | 10:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Mon, Apr 11, 2022
8:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Wed, Apr 13, 2022
7:00 AM | 10:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Thu, Apr 14, 2022
7:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Arrival | Departure Fri, Apr 15, 2022
8:00 AM | --
Arrival | Departure Sat, Apr 16, 2022
-- | --
The
All-Inclusive Crystal Experience is a heady combination of indulgent services
and enriching discovery. Since our debut in 1990, we have been elevating and
redefining the traditional notions of luxury cruising with innovative
excellence, exquisitely designed ships, bold itineraries, customized
destination immersion, and the highest standards of personalized service at sea
and on land.
A
proven leader in evolving the guest experience to stay ahead of global luxury
travel trends, we were the first cruise line to partner with celebrity chefs -
our Silk Road and Sushi Bar alternative dining venues are the only sea-going
restaurants in Nobu Matsuhisa's worldwide empire; the first to debut a Computer
University@Sea with personal e-mail and Internet services; the first to launch
a now critically-acclaimed Wine & Food Festival; and the soon-to-be first
luxury line to transit the Northwest Passage in 2016 and offer four distinct
World Cruise options in 2018.
From
launching the interactive Creative Learning Institute with complimentary
courses tailored to a guest's own personal enrichment, to pushing the
boundaries of gastronomic discovery with a cutting-edge new Modern Cuisine
menu, we are continually adding new programs and features to our award-winning
ships.
We
are thrilled that you are considering travel with us, and we welcome the
opportunity to explore the world with you.
A sanctuary of refined style, Crystal Symphony is the standard bearer of The World's Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line. Enjoy renowned cuisine, exceptional enrichment, sun-soaked verandahs, and the most gracious hospitality at sea.
Crystal Life Spa
In accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, the ancient practice of balance and harmony, our award-winning spa embodies a tranquil environment, easily allowing you to slip away from the stresses of daily life.
Crystal Life Salon
Enjoy sweeping ocean views as trained stylists and aestheticians provide a full-service menu of treatments including haircuts, styling, and coloring; facials and skin analysis; manicures and pedicures; and barber services for men
Crystal Life Fitness
Crystal Serenity's fitness facilities provide harmonizing enrichment to your travels. An extensive roster of specialized programs helps you maintain, or even begin, a fitness regimen while traveling
Seahorse Pool
Surrounded by teak decking, crisp white deck furniture and inviting sunbeds for conversational seating, our signature Seahorse Pool and Jacuzzi is the perfect spot to relax and unwind while enjoying life on the high seas.
Crystal Cove
A welcoming ambience of contemporary style and warmth, Crystal Cove is host to soft piano music and lively conversation. An ideal setting for pre-dinner cocktails or following a day ashore.
Avenue Saloon
Dark paneled walls and rich leather club chairs create the perfect space to steal away for a cocktail and conversation. But as the evening rolls on with the crescendo of live piano sing-alongs, a happy camaraderie fills the night.
Starlight Club
In the heart of the ship with panoramic port-to-starboard ocean views, this welcoming space features a circular bar and dance floor.
Galaxy Lounge
Boasting exceptional views from every seat in the house, elaborate stage shows and Broadway-styled productions are performed twice nightly, featuring celebrity guests, comedy revues, classical recitals and more.
Fantasia & Waves
With its dedicated spaces and acclaimed, age-specific children's programs for kids ages 3 to 17, Crystal is the luxury cruise line best suited for family travel during the holidays and all through summer.
More Choices- Plam Court
- Resort World At Sea Casino
- Connoisseur Club
- Hollywood Theatre
Creative Learning Institute
Progressive classes and workshops on a variety of topics - from wellness and wine to finance and art - allow you to follow your passions during your travels.
Computer University @Sea
Imagine returning home with a personalized movie of your trek through Machu Picchu, a digital photo documentary of your exploration of the pyramids at Giza, or even your own daily blog. With free 24-hour Wi-Fi/Internet access, you can do it all.
Crystal Visions Lecture Series
Stars of the stage and screen, masters of comedy, decorated Olympians, noted diplomats and ambassadors, celebrated authors, and renowned scientists highlight Crystal's award-winning enrichment lecture and seminar series.
Bridge Lounge
Supervised games are offered by an accredited ACBL instructor on every cruise.
Avenue of the Stars
From exquisite jewels and high fashion to treasured mementos and resort wear, the boutiques and shops along the Avenue of the Stars feature selections from brands that find a familiar home in a sophisticated yet understated environment.
Library
A comfortable and quiet spot to read a book (or find one!), peruse picture books and atlases, join in on puzzles, and simply relax.
Waterside
Dine at your leisure on extraordinary fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The chic and spacious ambience of our elegant open-seating main dining room features intimate tables for two, four and more.
Prego
Tableside service and menus of authentic Northern Italian fare are savored at this specialty venue showcasing modern and classic takes on favorites, from carbonara to tiramisu and everything in between.
Silk Kitchen & Bar
Surrounded by enchanting views of sea and shore, savor Chinese-inspired al fresco dining on deck, with open seating for breakfast and lunch, and reservations recommended for dinner.
Palm Court
With its enviable forward location, sunshine pours through the floor-to-ceiling window walls at this popular spot known for its Mozart-themed Afternoon Tea and evening cocktails and dancing.
The Vintage Room
Created for the true oenophile, optional, one-of-a-kind wine dinners feature some of the rarest vintages in the world; such as a nearly impossible-to-get 1959 Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and a 1996 Screaming Eagle from Napa Valley.
Trident Grill
Poolside al fresco fare includes delicious burgers, pizzas, wraps and salads plus our popular Late-Risers Breakfast from 10:00 am - 11:00 am for those who wish to luxuriously sleep in.
More Choices- Marketplace & Churrascaria
- Umi Uma & Sushi Bar
- The Bistro
- Scoops Ice Cream Bar
- 24-Hour In-Suite Dining
- Gross Tons: 51,044.0
- Length (ft.): 781
- Width (ft.): 99.1
- Guest Capacity: 848
- Registry: Bahamas
- Officers: Norwegian/Japanese
- Crew: International
- Total Crew: 566
- Cruising Speed: Max 20KHM
- Date Launched: 05/01/1995
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
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Deck Plans
Sun Deck

Australia's "Garden City" rejoices in its greenery, from the Fitzroy Gardens to the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens. Hiding behind the sky-scrapers along the Yarra River are the graceful 19th-century mansions of the city's Gold Rush years. Sample one of the sixty different international cuisines, which make Melbourne the food capital of Australia.
Dunedin is a little sliver of Scotland, set on the tropical shores of New Zealand's South Island. Founded by Scottish emigrants in 1848, Dunedin (the Gaelic name for Edinburgh) has fine Victorian and Edwardian architecture, including the Olveston stately home and majestic Larnach Castle--as well as New Zealand's only scotch distillery and kilt shop!
...exquisite architecture, great museums, and fabulous dining establishments.The accommodations and amenities in Wellington are superb, and during the summer there are many hot beach spots...
...It is no wonder why the region has become so popular, as it is safe, exciting, diverse, and warm.From touring in a four-wheel drive vehicle through the hills to swimming with the dolphins, Tauranga has it all.The hot springs are glorious, and you could spend an entire day and night lounging in the bubbling saltwater pools.They are truly magnificent, as are the restaurants and accommodations in Tauranga...
New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.
Sydney is Australia''s showcase: the oldest settlement, the largest and most thriving city, the cultural melting pot. It curves around idyllic Port Jackson, where sandstone cliffs and bright islands complement the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Wander the cobbled colonial streets of the historic Rocks quarter, or tour the mansions of Watson''s Bay.
The Great Barrier Reef city of Cairns is the northernmost city of Queensland and is located amidst endless stretches of white sandy beach, attracting visitors from around the world. Although Cairns is the scuba-diving capital of the Great Barrier Reef, you can also wander along the Esplanade, with its remarkable views over Trinity Bay, or explore the Heritage Walk with its fascinating insights into the city's history.
Named after evolutionist Charles Darwin, this tropical city on the top end of Australia is a former frontier town with a rough-and-tumble past. Darwin's growth was achieved back in 1871 with the discovery of gold at Pine Creek, and today a number of historic buildings from that era remain. Darwin is also the center of the aboriginal community, the world's oldest culture. From here, you can visit Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage Site renowned not only for its Australian wildlife but Aboriginal rock art.
A rare discovery awaits the traveler who ventures onto this remote island of Komodo. Walking through the dense vegetation, hearing and seeing a variety of bird and animal life, you may feel you've landed in another epoch. Indeed, the last vestiges of long-gone dinosaurs survive here, in the form of the legendary, giant lizards called Komodo Dragons.
From Semarang, travel through the lush jungles of Java to the astounding temples of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist monument on earth built in the 8th century. Here view a complex of dramatic carved towers that were forgotten for almost 800 years! Topped by graceful stupas, the winding pathways display carved panels depicting the life of Buddha.
Malaysia's capital rises like a vision from the deep jungles. Its fascinating array of architectural styles includes Malay stilt villages, Islamic minarets, Hindu temples, Chinese shop houses and the indescribable opulence of the Royal Palace. In the background rise the world's tallest buildings, the Petronas Twin Towers completed in 1996.
One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.
The quiet beaches of Lamai, on the island's southeastern coast, are sure to afford you the perfect opportunity to relax. If you would prefer to be a little more active while on Ko Samui, there are plenty of beautiful underwater sights at Coral Cove or Angthong Marine National Park. Dive shops are a dime a dozen on Ko Samui, so you will have plenty of opportunities to explore some of the world's prettiest coral reefs.
After 20 years of isolation, this history-laden Vietnamese capital will charm and fascinate you with her vibrant sights. Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a blend of magnificent French colonial architecture set against spacious boulevards thronged with trishaws, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians. Leave time to shop in the Ben Thanh Market or wander in the landmark Reunification Hall. The more adventurous may opt for an excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong in hiding from Allied troops.
Today this lovely town on the South China Sea reflects the peaceful era of pre-war Indochina. And up the coast, the grand Thien Mu Pagoda and stately Tu Duc Tomb welcome you to Hue, Vietnam's ancient royal capital, on the banks of the Perfume River.
Judging from the beauty of Hanoi, you can't help but to be amazed by its appearance. This pleasant city offers just the right atmosphere, not too fast paced and not too slow. Through all of the different moves and name changes, Hanoi is still able to maintain its allure.
Hanoi was moved from Hoa Lu to Dai La by King Ly Thai To (Ly Cong Uan) in 1010. The king's vision of the dragon ascending from the Red river brought on the change of Dai La to Thang Long. At the end of the Tran Dynasty in 1397, the capital city Thang Long was moved to Thanh Hoa-Tay Do (Western Capital) and Thang Long became Dong Do (Eastern Capital). The capital was renamed Dong Quan during the invasion by China in 1407. In 1428, Le Loi liberated Vietnam and renamed Dong Quan to Dong Kinh after 10 year fight. Once again the city was renamed Thang Long in 1527, King Gai Long moved this capital city to Hue in 1802 and changed the meaning of Long from dragon to prosperity. When King Minh Mang came along he renamed the city Ha Noi in 1831 meaning within the river.
Besides Hanoi's beauty, this city also possesses historical findings. One of these findings would be Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Returned Sword). The Lake of the Returned Sword was at one point in time called Luc Thuy or Green Water then changed to Ho Hoan Kiem, based on a similar legend as the Kind Arthur and the Lady of the Lake's legend. After the 10 years of fighting the Chinese and vindicated Vietnam's independence. The priceless sword that King Le Thai possessed was taken away by a large turtle. During a sail on Lake Luc Thuy the turtle appeared, the king pointed the sword at the turtle. The turtle grab onto the sword and disappeared into the lake. Since this sword was of such value the king ordered for the lake to be emptied, but the sword or the turtle was never seen again.
Hong Kong is the cosmopolitan hub of the Far East. This former British colony reverted to Chinese control in 1997, yet the culture-rich atmosphere remains. See the Wong Tai Sin Temple, tour local markets and the floating village of Aberdeen. Take the Tram to the top of Victoria Peak for one of the world''s most exciting views, or cross the harbor aboard one of the famous Star Ferries. After shopping and exploring, enjoy high tea at the favored retreat of many world travelers-the Peninsula Hotel.
Across the Formosa Strait from mainland China is the bustling port of Keelung, on the island of Taiwan. Just 20 miles inland is Taipei, the national capital, one of the most prosperous cities in Asia. Marvel at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the Grand Hotel, and the National Palace Museum, with its art treasures from Beijing''s Forbidden City.
Bustling Manila is the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city turmoil are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals, dramatic Spanish forts. Choose from the cultural riches of the Metropolitan Museum and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Intramuros, Manila's famous walled city, was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century. A "must see" is the Malacanang Palace with its opulent displays of Ferdinand and Imelda's decadent indulgences.
In the province of Sabah.
Set like a jewel in the Andaman Sea, Thailand's largest island has great expanses of sandy beaches that lure sun-seekers to their shores, and a unique culture combining influences from China and Portugal. Visit the fabled monastery of Wat Chalong, the Orchard Garden and the Thai Village, where examples of the country's culture are presented in a tranquil lakeside setting.
Ancient Burmese culture endures in this exotic city of the Irawaddy River. The jewel of the city formerly known as Rangoon is the Shewedagon Pagoda, one of the world's great Buddhist shrines, which is literally swathed in gold as well as diamonds, rubies and other precious stones.
Few cities evoke such a wealth of sensations as Bombay. Entering the city under the Gateway of India, which commemorates the visit of King George and Queen Mary in 1911, the sounds and aromas are exotic and the level of activity from the bazaars to the street vendors is non-stop. Remnants of British rule along oceanfront Marine Drive stand alongside the thought-provoking former home of Mahatma Gandhi, and the cave temple at Elephanta with its second-century Hindu gods. Bombay also serves as the gateway for land tours to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, and Delhi, the historical center of India.
Legend has it that Apollo blessed this isle with sunshine and beauty. True to the myths, the "Island of Roses" is rich in magnificent scenery and umbrella-lined beaches. Take an excursion to Lindos, where high on a hill rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also want to see the medieval Old Town, once home to the Crusading Knights of St. John, and tour the Grand Master's Palace, an Italian restoration famed for its superb mosaic floors.
This charming, picturesque resort where Antony and Cleopatra used to vacation is best known as the port for the ancients ruins of Ephesus - one of the world's most wondrous archaeological sites. Explorations should include such masterpieces as the Great Amphitheatre, where St. Paul addressed the Ephesians, the Library of Celsus, and the temples of Athena and Apollo - all connected by marble streets rutted by the wheels of countless chariots.
With its steep volcanic flanks looming straight up from the sea, and the tiny white village of Thira clinging high atop the cliffs, Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking and legendary of all the Greek Isles. To the south is Akrotiri, where recent Minoan excavations support the theories that Santorini might be the fabled lost continent of Atlantis.
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. In a single day, you can climb the hill of the Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and with luck, energetic Greek dancing.