Days 1-2 BangkokThailand's steamy capital is a wonderful mix of sights, smells and sounds. Those who arrive early may like to visit the Grand Palace, wander down Khao San Road or take a riverboat to Chinatown. Enjoy an orientation walk through the busy streets and be sure to sample some if the tasty hawker food on offer before boarding an overnight train north. Day 3 Chiang MaiWith spectacular temples, delicious food and fantastic shopping, Chiang Mai has something for everyone. Climb Doi Suthep for incredible views over the city or hire a bike to explore the old city. Days 4-6 Hilltribe TrekExperience local customs and language with this three-day hilltribe trek. Follow village tracks, past rice and vegetable plantations, exploring the lush scenery at a leisurely pace. Stay overnight in traditional bamboo huts. Day 7 Chiang MaiSpend a final morning in this dynamic city shopping or sightseeing. Why not check out Wat Chiung Man, a temple featuring beautiful examples of traditional northern Thai architecture, or relax before the overnight train journey ahead with a traditional massage? Days 8-9 BangkokEnjoy free time to further explore this sprawling metropolis. Flag down a tuk tuk to navigate the chaotic streets or take a leisurely longtail boat ride through the canals to see Thailand's capital from the water. Visit Wat Pho to admire the huge Reclining Buddha or shop up a storm in the markets or malls. Perhaps experience Bangkok's sizzling nightlife and be sure to indulge in some of the city's famous spicy cuisine before boarding an overnight train headed south. Days 10-11 Khao Sok National ParkThe exotic jungle awaits at Khao Sok National Park. Take a thrilling elephant ride through the rainforest or hit the walking trails to discover rivers and waterfalls. At night, fall asleep in rustic bungalows to the sounds of animal calls. Days 12-14 KrabiFringed by sun-bronzed beaches and spectacular limestone scenery, Krabi is the quintessential Thai paradise. Snorkel in the warm, emerald sea, try kayaking or rock climbing or, if total relaxation is in order, simply kick back in the shade of a palm tree and soak up some rays. Days 15-16 PenangFarewell Thailand's tropical coast and dive into the cultural melting pot of Malaysia. Perhaps take a trishaw ride through the array of markets, foodstalls and ornate temples of Georgetown. Visit Kek Lok Si, the largest Buddhist temple in the country, or encounter Penang's Chinese heritage firsthand at the ornate Khoo Kongsi clan house. Those seeking to enjoy Penang's natural beauty can head to the white-sand beaches of Batu Ferringhi or take to the walking trails in the nearby national park. Days 17-18 Kuala LumpurThis cosmopolitan city is a fascinating mix of impressive architecture, wonderful temples, fantastic shopping and delicious cuisine. Soak up the views from the iconic Petronas Towers or visit the enchanting Batu Caves. After the sun sets, head into the night market to sample some of Malaysia's exotic cuisine, or haggle for a bargain on Petaling Street. Days 19-20 MelakaSoak up the old-world charm of this former trading town. Enjoy an orientation walk to take in some of the major sights including Jonker Street, the Stadthuys and A'Famosa fort. With free time here, why not take a trishaw ride past the Chinese shophouses, cruise along the river by boat or visit tone of the many temples, churches, mosques or museums in the area? For a bird's-eye view over the city, hop aboard the Eye on Malaysia and be sure to sample nyonya, the exotic fusion of Chinese and Malay cusines. Days 21-22 SingaporeTravel by bus to steamy Singapore. Shop for last-minute souvenirs on Orchard Road, take a relaxing river cruise or enjoy an evening stroll along Clarke Quay. Perhaps celebrate the end of this adventure with a final meal of local cuisine and be sure to indulge in a Singapore Sling at the elegant Raffles Hotel.
|
 "Click for link to larger image.")
