Bangkok to Bali

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok is famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early and take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. After the meeting tonight perhaps gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some into world famous street food.

Begin the day with a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals) (approximately 1 hour). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the Bangkok temples, with a 46-metre-long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, three metres long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are equally fascinating, filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls, and shrines. No trip to Thailand is complete without an overnight train journey and this evening you’ll head south to Surat Thani, accommodated in air-conditioned sleeping berths (approximately 12 hours). Multi share compartments have bunk beds, with sheets and pillow provided, your baggage travels in the carriage with you and there is a food and drink service available on board.

Arrive into Surat Thani in the morning and then travel by minivan to Khao Sok (approximately 2.5 hours). Set amid hectares of thick jungle, waterfalls, limestone cliffs and topped off with an island-studded lake, the national park of Khao Sok is a nature lover's paradise. Here you’ll have free time to explore one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Walk along the dirt trails that snake through the quiet park, looking out for wildlife as you head for rivers and waterfalls. The flora is also top-notch, with the rare Rafflesia Kerri, one of the world’s largest flowers, only found in Thailand here. Spend a night in a rustic hut amid ancient gnarled rainforest trees.

Travel through pristine jungle, rubber and oil plantations before boarding a long tail boat for a ride across stunning Cheow Lan Lake, with one of its islands as your destination. With limestone karst hills rising almost 1000 metres into the air and surrounded by beautiful green waters, the area is incredibly picturesque. Trek to an island cave and discover its eerie stalactites and bats hanging from the ceiling, with subterranean streams at your feet. You’ll enjoy lunch in a local raft-house before having free time to relax, swim or kayak around the lake to search for wildlife – the water is clear and teems with aquatic life, and you might spot hornbills, langurs, macaques or gibbons above water. Return to your accommodation for the night.

Head to Ao Nang in a private minivan (approximately 3 hours). On the way, stop at Baan Bor Tor and embarking on a sea kayaking journey. About halfway along the coast between Than Bok Khoranee and Krabi town is a bay of mangroves that might just be the most beautiful bay in Thailand. Surrounded by towering karst formations and many small offshore islands, let the waterways become your pathway as you move slowly through the bays and canyons, discover inlets, caves and hidden lagoons, and check out the local wildlife up-close – the birds overhead and monkeys in the trees. If you do see a monkey, make sure you secure your belongings and any food! Arrive at Ao Nang late afternoon, and enjoy a free evening.

Famous for the incredible limestone karst scenery of the headland, sun-seekers will fall in love with Krabi's unspoilt beaches, the spectacular cliffs will tempt avid rock climbers, while scuba fans can embark on a Krabi diving adventure. If you love getting out on the water and exploring islands, then consider taking a trip by boat to explore Phi Phi and Khai Nok, islands surrounded by white sandy beach perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The area around Krabi is also home to some of the most spectacular climbing routes around. Whether you're a novice or a pro, being securely tied high up a limestone cliff-face looking down on jungle and crystalline seas is unforgettable. In the evening, look out for a beautiful sunset and consider dining on seafood in a beachside restaurant, followed by a drink in one of the many clubs and bars along on the beach.

This morning head onto a small village called Baan Mod Tanoy (approximately 2 hours drive). On arrival, enjoy a walk around the village and gain some insights into their day to day life.Then time to enjoy the great food and hospitality of the village. Get your hands dirty at Batik handkerchief Dyeing and learn a few tricks from the local craftsman of this traditional art. Your accommodation tonight in the village is a local resort so take the chance to enjoy the peaceful rural night.

The journey by private minibus sees you say goodbye to Thailand and wave hello to the cultural melting pot of Malaysia. The fascinating island of Penang was the first destination of the colonial British in 1786. They invited the Chinese, as well as others from all over Asia, to live on this island in the tropics. Today, this exotic fusion of cultures still exists and the World Heritage site of Georgetown contains a fascinating mix of religious places of worship. When you arrive, you’ll take an orientation walk around the blend of colonial buildings, tumble-down shops and hawker-filled alleyways to get your bearings. The food here might just be the best in Malaysia, so seek out some food stalls with your leader, and get a taste of this food paradise on an included Hawker food tour. Sample some local specialties such as Nasi Kandar, Penang Laksa, and Char Kway Teow.

This morning you’ll take a half-day sightseeing walking tour around Penang and Georgetown, soaking up the relaxed pace of life and the mix of cultures on show in this heritage area. See the original 19th century shophouses, the street markets, and the strong cultural and religious identity still on display in each neighbourhood – Little India, Chinatown or the Muslim Quarter. Check out the street art that adorns the walls and stop by a clan jetty. Clans were formed by 19th century immigrants, banding together based on the area of China that they came from, and they built rival waterfront societies on wooden jetties. You’ll also pay a visit to Thai and Burmese temples, and see Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in South East Asia. You’ll have this afternoon free and, aside from sauntering along the interesting streets (or hoping in a trishaw for a ride that will take you back in time), you might want to see the clan house of Khoo Kongsi. Check out the ornate carvings on the walls, roof and pillars, and maybe see more Chinese architecture in the memorably blue Courtyard House of Cheong Fatt Tze, a fabulously wealthy merchant. Don’t forget to feast on the island’s culinary delights tonight.

Continue south to Kuala Lumpur on a private vehicle. Kuala Lumpur, the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia, is affectionately known as KL and you'll almost always hear locals refer to it by its acronym. Communities of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malay people mingle peacefully, allowing travellers to get the best of all three worlds. KL has grown from a sleepy little village to a skyscraper-lined multi-million-peopled metropolis. The city can seem vast, but the main focus is the traditional core of the old town (the former colonial centre), the luxury hotel and shopping mall district of the Golden Triangle, and bustling Chinatown and Little India. Follow your leader on an orientation walk near the hotel and in the evening follow the Bukit Bintang Walkway and see the Petronas Twin Towers lit at night. You’ll be incredibly spoilt with the breadth and quality of dining options on offer. From simple-street side fare that attracts queues of customers eager to try the latest dish said to be the best around, to seriously high-calibre, world-class cuisine.

Enjoy a free day today for your own exploration! Perhaps visit the National Monument (commemorating those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom and based on the Iwo Jima Memorial in the USA), the vast National Mosque, featuring a bold and modern design, or the Istana Negara (National Palace). You might like stroll Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), or shop in Suria KLCC (one of Malaysia’s premier shopping destinations) and then head up to the Skybridge & Observation Deck of the iconic Petronas Towers to gain another view on this cosmopolitan city. Lake Gardens is home to a number of sights, including the National Planetarium and the superb Islamic Arts Museum. Or if you are more active, you may like to join a bike tour and cycle through the history and modern life of KL.
In the evening you may wan to experience the multicultural mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures through sampling some of its best food. Walk around local neighbourhoods and visit local grocers and street vendors. Your leader will be on hand making suggestions to help you make the best of the day.

Transfer by local bus to the old port town of Melaka (approximately 3 hours). Back when Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore left little impression on a map, the historic city of Melaka was the most important trading port in Malaysia, attracting Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese and British traders. These visitors sought wealth or an opportunity to control the Straits of Malacca, a vital trading route between the Indian and Pacific oceans, which lead to 400 years of colonial rule. Today, Melaka's wealth of historical sites reminds visitors of times gone by, and its multicultural past is revealed in its distinctive cuisine. Like Georgetown, the Melaka was declared a World Heritage Site in 2008, and like its Penang sibling, the city is a harmonic mix of cultures, a place where colonial buildings sit next to Chinese shophouses and temples.

Today you’ll get to know this port city better with a quaint trishaw tour along the narrow winding streets. You’ll admire Chinatown's unique Peranakan architecture, get a taste of old Melaka, and learn about the ancient spice trade. Take in sites such as Harmony Street (so called because it contains the prayer houses of Malaysia's three main faiths), and stop by a mosque, Chinese Buddhist Temples, and a traditional Muslim house-museum. In your free time this afternoon there are plenty of historic sights and museums to check out. From 17th century Dutch buildings and ships, to museums that showcase the local history of ethnic Chinese-Malays, the travels of diplomat and explorer Zheng He, and even a museum that focuses on concepts of beauty in different cultures. If you’re looking to get more active, then you could perhaps jump on two wheels for an Eco Bike tour around the city or see Melaka from a different perspective with a boat tour along the river.

Travel by local bus to the last stop on this incredible journey – Singapore (approximately 5 hours). Singapore has few areas untouched by modernisation, however wandering the streets of Little India and Chinatown is a great way to see the old parts of the city. To explore further, check out the renowned shopping precinct of Orchard Road, or stop by Raffles to experience the old world charm of a Singapore Sling. An evening in Singapore is not complete without a stroll along Clarke Quay, or even a river cruise to learn more about the fascinating history of this city. Your accommodation tonight is a centrally located hotel, perfect for easy exploring. Whatever you choose today, maybe gather together your fellow travellers for a celebratory drink or meal as your Bangkok to Singapore adventure comes to an end.

Take a short flight from Singapore to Jakarta to start the next part of your adventure. Arrive in time for a welcome meeting with your new leader and fellow travellers at 6pm. If you get in a little early why not check out some of Jakarta's interesting museums, such as the Wayang (puppetry), Balai Seni Rupa (fine arts) and maritime museums. The National Museum is great for first-time visitors. For a city monument, check out the Monas (National Monument) dedicated to the spirit of the Indonesian people.

Familiarise yourself with the city on a full-day tour of Jakarta with your local leader. Take in Sunda Kelapa port – where the Dutch first landed, temple-filled Chinatown and the old town of Batavia. See Si Jagur – an old Portuguese cannon ornately decorated with a disguised meaning. Visit a Chinese mansion (Chandra Naya) and gain an insight into the beautiful Peranakan architecture. Wander Fatahillah Square, then explore the religious side of the city at Cathedral Church and Istiqlal Mosque – the largest mosque in South East Asia. Tonight, you’re free to find some delicious local eats – just ask your leader!

This morning, take a train to Bandung – a former Dutch city which now boasts a thriving art, shopping and cafe scene. When you arrive around lunch time, you’ll head out for a street food crawl at the Paskal Food Market. Maybe try some satay skewers, gado-gado (a traditional Indonesian salad made from boiled eggs and vegetables) or roasted chicken with rice and vegetables. After, walk off the full belly with a heritage walk through Braga Street – once the centre of local development, this street was home to the first shopping arcade in Bandung, with lots of art deco buildings, shops and a cinema. Sit down for a cup of coffee at a 100-year-old cafe here and watch the world go by.

Today you’ll head out of Bandung for a day trip to the largest volcano in West Java – Tangkuban Perahu, the only volcanic mountain in Indonesia that you can drive to – and its lush surroundings. Circled by pine forests and tea plantations, you’ll soak up the views as you learn about the unique history of the volcano. Take a walk around the craters with your leader, then head to the Ciater Hot Springs. Along the way, visit a local tea plantation to learn about the tea industry in Java, then continue to the hot springs for a relaxing soak to soothe the muscles. Later, you have a free afternoon and evening back in Bandung.

This morning, catch a train to Yogyakarta. This town is one of South East Asia's real gems! Known as Java's cultural heart, Yogyakarta has a great atmosphere and is perfect to explore on foot. From batik workshops to the nearby Hindu and Buddhist temples, Yogya offers a great array of cultural avenues to explore. When you arrive, you’re free to explore at your own pace – just ask your leader for recommendations.

Rise early to avoid the crowds at Candi Borobudur – the largest Buddhist structure on earth. This UNESCO World Heritage site is set in a tranquil park and as you approach, you'll see the temple rise before you, looming among tropical foliage. With your local guide, follow the route of ancient pilgrims, circling the mandala-shaped structure from the early realms towards Nirvana. After, you have a free afternoon. You might like to visit one of Yogya's other heritage temples – Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu complex in Java. Tonight, perhaps catch a performance of the Ramayana Ballet – your leader will be able to check dates and availability for you.

Pedal out of the city on a cycling tour through the rice fields and countryside surrounding Yogyakarta. See the locals making various goods, from bricks to tofu and tempeh. Pass palms, lush green grasslands and the odd burst of yellow and pink flowers by the side of the road, which make for great photo opportunities! After, you have a free afternoon to maybe take on a cooking class where you can learn about Indonesian cuisine. Or, why not salute the sun with a yoga class.

Travel by train, then minivan to Seloliman Nature Reserve today. This peaceful reserve sits on the slopes of the sacred volcano, Mt Penanggungan. When you arrive, you’ll meet some of the volunteers working at the Seloliman Environmental Education Centre and learn about what they do here. For lunch, sit down for some delicious, locally grown organic produce cooked by their staff. The centre's accommodation is atmospheric, even with open-air bathrooms built in harmony with the surrounding forest, so take this opportunity to relax this afternoon. This is a beautiful spot to appreciate nature, sit under the stars as the sun goes down and spend an evening technology-free!

Join the reserve staff on a walk around the property this morning, learning about the local environment and the Javanese tradition of herbal medicine. You'll gain an insight into the region’s flora and fauna, traditional farming methods, rice production and the mini hydroelectricity plant. Finish up with a traditional jamu demonstration and a tasting of this Javanese herbal medicine. Then, travel to Mt Bromo – the homeland of the Tenggerese. The still-active volcano – standing at 2329 m – is the most well-known of the Tengger massif. Retire early tonight in preparation for tomorrow's early start.

Your early start today (around 3 am) will be well worth it! First, drive to a lookout point in jeeps to catch the sunrise over the sea of sand. After, you’ll climb up to the volcano crater to take a peek inside – the ascent is not too difficult (approximately 45 minutes), but it can be very cold, so don't forget to bring extra layers of clothing. It's also worth bringing a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, as it can get dusty. Return to the hotel to freshen up and then depart midmorning to Kalibaru in a private minivan, stopping for lunch along the way. Tonight, you’re free to relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a local massage.

Head out early this morning to tour some nearby coffee and cocoa plantations. You'll see how coffee is dried and if there’s time, how cocoa is fermented. Before you set off, enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea and snack on fried bananas – yum! Travel by minibus to the far eastern end of Java – Gilimanuk. There is often a lot of heavy traffic on this stretch of road as it's the main entry point for Bali, so there may be some delays. Next, you'll board a ferry across the Java Strait, then another minibus for a journey along the west coast of Bali to Pemuteran – your destination for the next two nights.

Enjoy a relaxing day in this gorgeous beachside location. Maybe start the day with a yoga class and then explore the local area at your own pace. You could visit the surrounding monkey-filled temples, go swimming off the coast, or think about booking in a snorkelling or diving expedition to the turquoise waters of Menjangan Island. Otherwise, simply sit back, relax and watch the fishermen go about their day-to-day on one of the beaches.

Make the journey to Ubud today – the leafy-green natural paradise of Bali. On the way, stop in at Taman Ayun Temple, to take in the impressive Balinese architecture while you stroll around the gardens. Ubud is Bali's main arts and cultural centre with lots of markets, shops and warungs, close to verdant rice terraces and lush jungles. With nature and wellbeing at its core, Ubud is a highland haven popular with travellers. Tonight, why not get a group of your travel pals together and find a local place to eat some traditional Balinese cuisine.

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. There is plenty to see and do in Ubud, so it’s highly recommended you stay another few days to explore. If you do, maybe hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies and small villages, or visit the galleries, museums and handicraft merchants in town. If you would like to spend more time in Ubud, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.