Sailings
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InsideOceanviewBalconySuite
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$18,299 USD $345.26 USD per day$19,199 USD $362.25 USD per day$24,999 USD $471.68 USD per day$34,199 USD $645.26 USD per day
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Sat, Apr 24, 2027 HONG KONG, CHINA -- 6:00 pmSun, Apr 25, 2027 AT SEA -- --Mon, Apr 26, 2027 HANOI (HA LONG BAY), VIETNAM 7:00 am --Tue, Apr 27, 2027 HANOI (HA LONG BAY), VIETNAM -- 3:00 pmWed, Apr 28, 2027 HUE (CHAN MAY), VIETNAM 9:00 am --Thu, Apr 29, 2027 HUE (CHAN MAY), VIETNAM -- 1:00 pmFri, Apr 30, 2027 NHA TRANG, VIETNAM 9:00 am 4:00 pmSat, May 01, 2027 SAIGON (HO CHI MINH CITY), VIETNAM 11:00 am --Sun, May 02, 2027 SAIGON (HO CHI MINH CITY), VIETNAM -- 2:00 pmMon, May 03, 2027 AT SEA -- --Tue, May 04, 2027 BANGKOK, THAILAND 1:00 pm --Wed, May 05, 2027 BANGKOK, THAILAND -- 2:00 pmThu, May 06, 2027 KO SAMUI, THAILAND 8:00 am 3:00 pmFri, May 07, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sat, May 08, 2027 SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE 8:00 am 6:00 pmSun, May 09, 2027 KUALA LUMPUR (PORT KLANG), MALAYSIA 9:00 am 7:00 pmMon, May 10, 2027 PENANG, MALAYSIA 9:00 am 7:00 pmTue, May 11, 2027 LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA 7:00 am 4:00 pmWed, May 12, 2027 PHUKET, THAILAND 7:00 am 9:00 pmThu, May 13, 2027 AT SEA -- --Fri, May 14, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sat, May 15, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sun, May 16, 2027 GALLE, SRI LANKA 7:00 am 7:00 pmMon, May 17, 2027 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA 7:00 am 7:00 pmTue, May 18, 2027 AT SEA -- --Wed, May 19, 2027 COCHIN (KOCHI), INDIA 7:00 am 5:00 pmThu, May 20, 2027 MANGALORE, INDIA 8:00 am 6:00 pmFri, May 21, 2027 GOA (MORMUGAO), INDIA 7:00 am 4:00 pmSat, May 22, 2027 MUMBAI, INDIA 8:00 am 6:00 pmSun, May 23, 2027 AT SEA -- --Mon, May 24, 2027 AT SEA -- --Tue, May 25, 2027 FUJAIRAH, UAE 8:00 am 4:00 pmWed, May 26, 2027 DUBAI, UAE 7:00 am 5:00 pmThu, May 27, 2027 ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATE 7:00 am 7:00 pmFri, May 28, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sat, May 29, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sun, May 30, 2027 SALALAH, OMAN 8:00 am 6:00 pmMon, May 31, 2027 AT SEA -- --Tue, Jun 01, 2027 AT SEA -- --Wed, Jun 02, 2027 AT SEA -- --Thu, Jun 03, 2027 JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA 7:00 am 5:00 pmFri, Jun 04, 2027 AT SEA -- --Sat, Jun 05, 2027 AQABA, JORDAN 6:00 am 9:00 pmSun, Jun 06, 2027 LUXOR (SAFAGA), EGYPT 9:00 am --Mon, Jun 07, 2027 LUXOR (SAFAGA), EGYPT -- 6:00 pmTue, Jun 08, 2027 SUEZ CANAL TRANSIT -- --Wed, Jun 09, 2027 CAIRO (PORT SAID), EGYPT 6:00 am 9:00 pmThu, Jun 10, 2027 AT SEA -- --Fri, Jun 11, 2027 LIMASSOL, CYPRUS 7:00 am 5:00 pmSat, Jun 12, 2027 ANTALYA, TURKEY 7:00 am 5:00 pmSun, Jun 13, 2027 RHODES, GREECE 7:00 am 5:00 pmMon, Jun 14, 2027 EPHESUS (KUSADASI), TURKEY 7:00 am 4:00 pmTue, Jun 15, 2027 ISTANBUL, TURKEY 2:00 pm --Wed, Jun 16, 2027 ISTANBUL, TURKEY -- --
Port
Arrival Port
Our acclaimed Nautica has undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation to create a virtually new ship that is both sleek and elegantly charming. Her decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings. Nautica offers every luxury you may expect on board one of our stylish ships. She features four unique, open-seating restaurants, a world-class fitness center and spa, eight lounges and bars, a casino and 342 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas. With just 684 guests to pamper, our 400 professionally trained European staff ensure you will wait for nothing.
The Grand Dining Room
The Grand Dining Room is a study in stateliness, a tribute to the spirit of Europe's marquee 5-star hotel restaurants that inspired its dignified yet convivial ambiance. Handsomely decorated in rich woods, designer tapestry fabrics and oversized armchairs, the expansive dining area exudes classic splendor. Tables are beautifully set with bone china, sparkling Riedel crystal, gleaming silver, and fine cotton linens. Remarkably, as sumptuous as The Grand Dining Room's decor is, guests always feel completely at ease within its grandeur. Much of that is a direct reflection of the formally attired and classically trained wait staff, graciously serving course after course of European-inspired cuisine or delectable alternatives such as light and healthy Canyon Ranch Spa Cuisine and gourmet vegan options. And on board Regatta, Insignia, Nautica and Sirena signature specials from Jacques and Red Ginger are featured nightly in The Grand Dining Room. As variety is essential, menus change daily with a brilliant choice of at least ten appetizers, soups and salads and twelve entrees at dinner.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. No reservations required.
The Bistro
Inspired by the family recipes of our Executive Culinary Director, Jacques Pepin, The Bistro invites you to enjoy quintessential French dishes as well as lunchtime favorites and regional specialties during lunch in The Grand Dining Room. The menu features some of Jacques' favorite bistro-style dishes like the crisp salade niçoise and a warm croque-monsieur as well as a rich range of global flavors with Taste of the World selections from Cuba, Mexico, Scandinavia, Italy, Thailand, Morocco and beyond. Daily specials offer even more choices and opportunities to savor a new and different dish or a time-honored classic you crave. Bon appetit!
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. No reservations required.
Polo Grill
Polo Grill embodies all the elements of a classic steakhouse, expressing them with timeless reverence. Mindful of tradition, the decor features crisp, white linen tablecloths, dark wood furnishings and supple, high-back, burgundy leather chairs. Each course stands as the very definition of time-honored favorites, most notably the beef dishes, all of which are USDA Prime and dry-aged for 28 days to enhance tenderness and flavor. Succulent seafood dishes such as Grilled Swordfish and Whole Maine Lobster Gratinee are also classics in their own right. The Classic Caesar Salad, too, is prepared according to tradition, tableside and with gusto.
Open for dinner only. Reservations required.
Toscana
In Italian, Toscana means Tuscan, and just as Tuscan cuisine evolved from rich family traditions, many of our recipes originated with the mothers and grandmothers of our own Italian culinary staff. Presented on elegant, custom-designed Versace china, masterfully prepared dishes exemplify the essence of Tuscany and celebrate Italy's culinary passion. Perhaps the evening begins with an appetizer of Octopus Carpaccio with Champagne Vinaigrette or the Artichoke and Parmesan Cheese Timbale with Black Truffle Sauce. Classic dishes from other regions of Northern Italy are featured as well, such as the Minestrone alla Genovese, Lasagne al Forno alla Bolognese and Osso Buco alla Milanese.
Open for dinner only. Reservations required.
Terrace Cafe
Informal and carefree, the Terrace Cafe is wonderfully inviting any time of day--feel free to dine inside or alfresco at one of the shaded teak tables on the terrace. First thing in the morning, enjoy sumptuous breakfast selections. Come lunch, the expansive menu of international-inspired dishes changes entirely, beautifully complemented by flavorful roasted and rotisserie meats and the magic of the pizzeria's oven. Feel free to dine inside or alfresco at one of the shaded teak tables on the terrace. Evenings, the impeccably clad wait staff shines, and the cuisine takes on a more sophisticated flair. Lobster tails and lamb chops are prepared to order, and freshly made hand-cut sushi and sashimi await your selection. Tomorrow, an entirely different series of menus awaits the opportunity to delight you.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. No reservations required.
Waves Grill
Sometimes, the ultimate luxury is casual dining on all-American favorites, a style laid-back Waves Grill epitomizes. Located in a spacious, shaded area steps from the swimming pool, Waves Grill offers an extensive and mouthwatering luncheon menu as well as raw, cold-pressed juices, vegan smoothies and healthy energy bowls during breakfast at the new Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar. During lunch, the chefs grill gourmet burgers, tangy barbecue and succulent seafood to order in the open galley, accompanying them with side dishes like garden-fresh salads and crispy, hand-cut truffle fries dusted with grated aged parmesan.
Open for lunch and afternoon dining only. No reservations required.
Afternoon Tea
Few tea times are as anticipated and inspired as ours, a celebratory daily event that irresistibly draws guests to Horizons at four o'clock sharp. As a classical string quartet plays softly in the background, our staff glides through the room presenting bountiful four-tiered pastry carts filled with freshly made finger sandwiches, colorful petits fours, richly textured scones with clotted cream, and wonderfully sinful desserts.
Daily at 4pm. No reservations required.
Baristas
This delightful coffee bar offers java lovers complimentary illy espressos, cappuccinos and lattes prepared by our master baristas, as well as the delicious pastries, finger sandwiches and homemade biscotti that draw so many to Baristas throughout the day.
Open daily until early evening. No reservations required.
Room Service
After a day of enriching shore excursions ashore or various activities onboard, you may dine in the privacy of your suite or stateroom. An extensive Room Service menu is available around the clock. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on your private veranda, as you take in spectacular seascapes.
Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day.
Casinos At Sea Rewards Program
Welcome to our Casinos At Sea rewards program. Elevate your game and your card status will follow with exclusive perks and privileges. Casinos At Sea reward points can be earned for many benefits, from free play, to complimentary drinks and exciting promotional offers. The more you play, the more you are rewarded.
Earn Casino Points
Getting started is easy. Stop by the casino cage and pick up your Oceania Cruises casino player card and start earning points today, by inserting your player card while playing your favorite slot machines and table games. The more you play, the more you earn!
- REEL & VIDEO SLOTS - For every $5 coin-in, receive 1 point.
- VIDEO POKER - For every $10 coin-in, receive 1 point.
- TABLE GAMES - Points are based on average bet, session play or hands played and game type.
Redeem Casino Points
You've played. You've earned. Now you're ready to redeem. Downloading points for play is quick and easy. Redeem your casino points for play right at your machine by following the on-screen prompts or stop by the casino cage - the choice is yours.
Casino Cash & Credit
Front Money deposits are accepted for gaming in the form of cash, traveler's checks, cashier's checks and wire transfers delivered to us prior to embarkation. All cashier's checks require prior verification.
Cashless Wagering
Charge gaming to your onboard account directly from your game of choice or at the casino cashier, using your stateroom key card. Convenience fees, daily limits and cruise limits apply. Euros may be exchanged at the casino cashier, exchange rates apply. All gaming is in US Dollars.
Credit
Casino Credit is available to all players with an existing reservation. The minimum application amount is $10,000.00 and a personal check is required onboard to activate the credit line. Applications are processed 1 month prior to sailing. The application process is easy and there is no fee to apply.
If you're an arts aficionado, you'll find our entertainment lively and engaging. Evenings aboard can be anything you desire. Marvel at the continuously changing talented guest entertainers as you delight in themed music sets and colorful folkloric shows inspired by your locale. Relax to the classical melodies of the string quartet. Chat with newfound friends over cocktails in Martinis as you enjoy the live piano music. Attend a spectacular production show in the Lounge, dance the night away in Horizons to the sounds of a marvelous musical group or show your talent at karaoke. Bold and crowd-thrilling, nostalgic and upbeat, or intimate and sophisticated - whatever you choose, the night is yours.
Nautica's versatile and talented cast performs the following diverse production shows:
4 on the Floor
A musical tribute to legendary groups of four, 4 on the Floor brings you the rhythms of The Four Seasons, ABBA, the Mamas and the Papas, The Beatles and many others.
Tuxedo
Tuxedo presents a fresh take on the music of the Rat Pack, the Great American Songbook and the music of legends such as Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, Frank Sinatra and many more.
Good Lovin'
From the soulful sounds of Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin to the hot Motown recording era of Frankie Valli and Smokey Robinson, Good Lovin' is an infectious tribute to the irresistible beat, soulful pop and Motown classics of the 1960s.
Get on the Floor and Dance
Get on the Floor and Dance is a tribute to the music of dance and features iconic, hit music from artists like Gloria Estefan, Michael Buble, Christina Aguilera and Brian Setzer.
Oceania @ Sea Computer Center
Stay connected with family and friends or monitor business developments in our 24-hour Internet center, Oceania@Sea. For personalized service, Oceania@Sea is fully-staffed on both sea days (8 a.m. - 7 p.m.) and port days (8 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.).
Internet and Phone
Oceania Cruises also offers wireless Internet access throughout the ship, allowing you to connect through your laptop or mobile device. Guests in Concierge Levels and above are provided with a laptop. And as an added convenience, guests in all Owner's, Vista and Oceania Suites will have the use of an iPad throughout the voyage. Beginning in Winter of 2015, guests in Concierge Verandas and Penthouse Suites will enjoy a FREE Internet Package, and guests in Oceania, Vista and Owner's Suites will enjoy FREE Unlimited Internet.
Mail
Letters and postcards with the appropriate postage can be mailed at the Reception Desk. Postage for mail may be purchased at the Reception Desk for a nominal fee. Mail will be collected one hour prior to sailing from each port of call.
Incoming mail or faxes received by the ship on your behalf will be delivered directly to your stateroom.
Wireless Communications ServiceOceania Cruises offers Wireless Maritime Services (WMS) for all GSM mobile phones and GPRS devices such as Blackberry when the ship is at sea.
You can make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and use other data services when the ship is at sea. You will be billed by your mobile phone provider and calls or messages will appear as roaming charges on your bill. While using the WMS service, international maritime roaming rates will apply. Please consult your wireless service provider for detailed rates and service zones.
Mind, Body & Soul
On a voyage with Oceania Cruises, you not only chart a new course to alluring ports of call but also discover new paths to wellness. Travel stimulates the mind, uplifts the soul and invigorates the body, and the journey is as inspiring as the destination. You naturally enhance your well-being while on board our ships and during explorations ashore because the entire experience nurtures that most cherished gift – your health and vitality.
Beyond The Spa
This holistic approach to well-being is at the very heart of our new Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, which offers a wide array of programs, services and experiences designed to help you live your best life. Of course, rejuvenating spa treatments and healing therapies are an essential part of this philosophy, but Aquamar is far more than a spa. From complimentary fitness classes and plant-based menus on board to excursions in worldwide destinations that reveal timeless wellness practices, Aquamar encourages a lifestyle of health and longevity.
Martinis
Martinis serves numerous incarnations of this famous cocktail in an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a private gentleman's club, featuring live piano music.
Grand Bar
Before enjoying a gourmet meal, sample a rare vintage or imbibe your favorite libation as you enjoy spirited conversation with new found friends amid the opulence of the convivial Grand Bar.
Lounge
From headline acts to comedians and magicians to lively jazz ensembles, the Lounge is the center of nightly entertainment aboard Oceania Cruises.
Horizons
An elegant observation lounge with dramatic floor to ceiling windows and a country club casual ambiance, Horizons features our beloved teatime by day and transforms into a sophisticated evening venue by night. Dance the night away to the sounds of a lively musical group and enjoy cocktails with friends at the convivial bar.
Waves Bar
Located in shaded area steps from the swimming pool, Waves Bar offers a wide variety of libations to enhance your poolside experience. A perfect afternoon on the deck with your favorite cocktail or a glass of wine or beer can be further enhanced with a decadent dessert such as a creamy homemade gelato, a made-to-order hot fudge sundae or a thick, hand-dipped milkshake. Nearby, at Waves Grill, chefs grill gourmet burgers, tangy barbecue and succulent seafood to order in the open galley, accompanying them with the side dishes like garden-fresh salads and crispy, hand-cut truffle fries dusted with grated aged parmesan.
Experience Nautica
Experience the warm and convivial atmosphere unique to Oceania Cruises: elegance without pretense. Feel wonderfully at home as you meet fellow shipmates, explore the ship and prepare for the fascinating ports of call you will soon discover. Meet friends for cocktails at Martinis and share adventures you enjoyed ashore. Join an afternoon bridge game, or perhaps simply relax by yourself in one of the many private retreats reserved just for you.
The stimulating variety of entertainment options on board our ships continually ensures your interests are piqued. Enjoy an engaging guest lecture by a historian, naturalist or former ambassador eager to share insider knowledge. Relax at a musical performance, perhaps featuring a live pianist, a classical string quartet, a dynamic vocalist or a spectacular headliner. Later, try your luck at the elegant Monte Carlo-style casino or go dancing at Horizons.
Tea Takes Center Stage
A ritual that dates back to 19th century England, afternoon tea is still a cherished tradition the world over. But few tea times are as anticipated and inspired as ours, a celebratory daily event that irresistibly draws guests to Horizons at four o'clock sharp. As a classical string quartet plays softly in the background, our staff glides through the room presenting bountiful four-tiered pastry carts filled with freshly made finger sandwiches, colorful petits fours, richly textured scones with clotted cream, and wonderfully sinful desserts. Of course, a tempting selection of traditional and herbal teas is the essential centerpiece of this splendid afternoon pastime.
Daily at 4pm. No reservations required.
Artist Loft
For budding artists, there is the Artist Loft enrichment center, where talented artists-in-residence offer step-by-step instruction. Under their watchful eye, you may paint with oils or watercolors, sketch or create collages. The courses change continually and are designed with every level in mind, so everyone from beginners to seasoned professionals will find the classes engaging and enriching. With the masters' guidance, your talents will quickly blossom.
Available on board Insignia world cruises.
Boutiques
Our three stylish boutiques feature a bounty of items ranging from sundries to designer casual wear. Feel free to browse through our array of duty-free merchandise including fine jewelry, fragrances and Oceania Cruises logo wear.
Library
Enrich your mind in the tranquility of our English-style Library with over 2,000 books and periodicals ranging from destination-specific guide books to best-selling mysteries to classic literature.
Pool & Sports Deck
On the sparkling Pool Deck, take a refreshing dip in the large heated pool or relax in one of the two whirlpool spas. Plenty of comfortable chaises and luxurious day beds invite you to lounge poolside while you sip your favorite cocktail. For more active pursuits, head to the Sports Deck high atop the ship. As you take in the fantastic views, enjoy some friendly competition on the shuffleboard court or play nine holes of golf on the putting greens.
- Year Built: 2000
- Year Refurbished: 2016
- Refurbishment date:2020
- Gross Tonnage: 30,277
- Length: 593.7 ft
- Beam: 83.5 ft
- Max. Draught: 19.5 ft
- Stabalizers: Yes
- Cruising Speed: 18 knots
- Electric Power or Voltage: 110, 220 AC
- Guest Capacity : 684 (double occupancy)
- Crew Size: 400
- Guest-to-Staff Ratio: 1.71 to 1
- Nationality of Officers: European
- Nationality of Staff: International
- Country of Registry: Marshall Islands
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
Deck Eleven
From one end of this great earth to the other, you'll travel via the luxury of a cruise ship. Be pampered on board as your home-at-sea makes its way through international waters to far away places.
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.
In 1744, Southern Vietnam was controlled under the control of Nguyen. At this point in history, Hue resided as capitol of Vietnam. When the control of the city was taken away from the rebels with the defeat by Nguyen Ann in 1802, The Nguyen family dynasty began. During the resignation of the last emperor in 1945, this ended the dynasty of the Nguyen Family. Regardless of the damages as a result of the 1968 Tet offensive that occurred during the American War, this beautiful city it still entails architectural findings.
Through all of the damages due to natural disasters and wars, Hue sustained its ancient appearance. This ancient capital contains palaces, walls, and royal tombs. Considering the history and heritage that Hue contains, makes it Vietnam's most priceless possession. On December 11, 1993, Hue was appointed the status of being a World Culture Heritage by UNESCO's Director General, Federico Mayor.
One of Hue's main attractions would be the Citadel, which is constructed around the natural beauties just north of the Perfume River. The construction of this structure was built from 1805 to 1832. This structure has a circumference of 10,000 m, a height of 6.6 m and a thickness of about 21cm. It contains a dirt filled center and an outer layer of bricks. The Citadel is positioned just southeast of Mount Ngu Binh (Royal Screen Mount) and within a view point of the Ta Thanh Long (Left Green Dragon) and Huu Bach Ho (Right White Tiger).
Along with the Citadel, Hue also possesses structures as the Ngo Mon, which was built in 1833, The Palace of Supreme Harmony, and Royal Tombs. All of these magnificent works of art can be view upon your visit. We'll reserve all of the details of these architectures for your viewing pleasure.
If you were traveling by plane to Nha Trang, this city would give the illusion that it is engulfed by beautiful elevated mountains glazed of green grass with this ideal relaxing city in between. Most of the Vietnamese come to Nha Trang to escape the hectic ways of Ho Chi Minh City. This ideal paradise island is known for its beautiful beaches with the atmosphere of warm temperature all year round. A couple of Nha Trang's famous islands include Hon Tre, Hon Yen, Hon Rua, and Spratly islands.
The city of Nha Trang contains the most beautiful beaches. Once of which is Cana beach which is a stretch of what sands and a couple restaurants that allure travelers. The Natives and visitors make a habit of indulging in the beach atmosphere mainly during the times of 5am - 8am when weather is cool instead of steaming hot. One of its extraordinary features would be the Thanh Long (Green Dragon fruit) orchards. These orchards only grow along the highway to Nha Trang and have grown quite popular.
Unfortunately Saigon was unable to escape war since the beginning. Saigon suffered a disturbing record in terms of damages due to the war. The southern area of Saigon was appointed districts and government during 1698 by Mr. Nguyen Huu Canh under the order of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu. Also in 1698, the city of Saigon was officially named. In the year 1772, the city of Saigon began to form starting with the streets being converted from canals.
The city of Saigon is equipped with plenty of sites to allure its visitors as well as its life long natives. The former American Embassy lands right at the top of the list of interest of tourists, in actuality the History Museum should be on the top of the list. This History Museum contains a collation of artifacts dating back 2,000 years in Vietnam's history.
Along with the History Museum, Saigon also features the Unification Place, which was once the Presidential Palace that was utilized by Nguyen Van Thieu for nine years. Many visitors only venture as far as the front gate to take pictures, but those who wonder inside are bound explore floors upon floors of rooms. Saigon entails other accommodations and attractions, but we will leave that discovery for your visit.
A mirror of Venice in Asia, this "City of Angels" is a bustling place with a maze of extensive waterways constantly in motion. In between the office towers and royal palaces are beautiful parks, boulevards and gardens. Bangkok is a city with more than 400 Buddhist temples. The most famous of these is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, containing a statue carved from a single piece of jade. Gaze at one of Bangkok's best known landmarks, Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. Spend time in the city's oldest and biggest monastery, Wat Pho, where you'll be awed by its famed Reclining Buddah. Shoppers will enjoy the excitement of the floating markets.
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.
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.
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.
The swirl of Batik in eastern bazaars, the cascade of waterfalls in the Botanical Gardens, jungle-clad hills ringed by golden beaches, these are the images you will take from Penang. This lovely resort island and its bustling capital of Georgetown are the picture of Malaysian diversity. Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and Kek Lok Si, one of the most beautiful temples in Southeast Asia. See the ornate Khoo Kongsi, and old Chinese clan house; and an 18th century British fortress. Enjoy the Chinese embroidery and Malay daggers in the Penang Museum, or marvel at the Penang Bridge (third longest in the world).
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.
Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka means "Resplendent Land," an apt description for this beautiful island. Sri Lanka lies fifty-five miles north of the equator, just off the southern tip of India. With its unique beauty, warm climate and near-perfect beaches, Sri Lanka is one of Asia's most adored destinations. Since the sixteenth century, the Portuguese, Dutch and British have all left their architectural and cultural marks in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo. Yet despite its colonial architecture, Sri Lanka has always remained Oriental in spirit, with colorful bazaars, dancing elephants, graceful women in saris, and many Buddhist shrines and temples.
A fascinating blend of India and the West, the mythical kingdom of Goa was conquered in 1510 by the Portuguese, who held it until it joined India in 1962. The Portuguese influence is still clear in the names and Christian faith of the locals, and in Renaissance monuments like the Cathedral, the Basilica Bom Jesu, and the convent of St. Francis, a converted mosque.
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.
Because it's unique location offers free access to the major shipping routes of the world, making it the pick of ports for entrepreneurs around the world, Fujairah is known as the jewel of the Middle East. Its government's liberalized procedures and firm infrastructure provides excellent support for entrepreneurs to build, grow and diversify. The land of Fujairah is endowed with remarkable beauty. The beaches are sun-kissed, the mountain ranges are majestic, and the convivial weather conditions present Fujairah as an exotic land, ripe for discovery by tourists and businesspersons alike.
Despite the primeval desert that surrounds it, spirited Dubai has spent its oil income on modern architecture based on soaring Islamic spires. Explore the souk bazaars for gold and silks, Persian and Afghani rugs and more. And be sure to visit the Juneira Mosque.
Before the 1960s, Abu Dhabi was only a bleak fishing and pearling village. Now everything is modern, sleek and shiny and makes up 85% of the total area of the UAE. It has become the richest and most politically important of the UAE's seven emirates. It is a big city for doing business and considered safe and secure for foreigners as long as you avoid demonstrations and political gatherings. It has been accused of being a soulless place, but to be honest it does have its attractions. Some key attractions are the Al-Hosn Palace used by the Cultural Foundation, the beautiful Capital Garden of the Corniche, and the Women's Craft Centre where you will be able to shop for some very detailed souvenirs.
Like a magic carpet spread before the sea, Oman's coastal plain is one of the most fertile areas of Arabia. Famous since antiquity as the source of frankincense, Salalah was already a prosperous town when Marco Polo visited it in the 13th century! Inland rise the forbidding Al-Quar... Mountains, and the desolate "Empty Quarter" of central Saudi Arabia.
It is a massive cosmopolitan city where the past and the present coexist in perfect harmony... A brief 30-minute cab ride from the center of the city will take you to the home of the most popular pyramids of Giza. Here dwells the great Sphinx that has become the second flag of Egypt.
The birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is nearby on this island - the third largest in Europe. Explore what is now called the Medieval Museum, a restored castle where Richard the Lionheart married in 1191. Visit a mosque, browse the local artisan shops and take in the natural and architectural delights of Cyprus.
This fortified seaport was already centuries old when St. Paul and St. Barnabas left its harbor on their journey to Antioch. Explore the superb museum in a converted Byzantine church, visit the ancient Roman Theatre, or simply relax amid the pleasant scents of orange groves and pine forests. Those hungry for more history can venture to the ancient towns of Side and Perge.
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.
Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.