14 Night Spice Route Cruise on Anthem of the Seas from Dubai, United Arab Emirates Penang, Malaysia Red Lanterns
The 14 Night Spice Route Cruise from Dubai, United Arab Emirates visits Muscat, Oman; Mumbai (Bombay), India; Cochin, India; Phuket, Thailand; Penang, Malaysia; Singapore, Singapore. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
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14 Night Spice Route Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Anthem of the Seas
Day 1 - 2 - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Day 3 - Muscat, Oman
Day 4 - 5 - Cruising
Day 6 - Mumbai (Bombay), India
Day 7 - Cruising
Day 8 - Cochin, India
Day 9 - 11 - Cruising
Day 12 - Phuket, Thailand
Day 13 - Penang, Malaysia
Day 14 - 15 - Singapore, Singapore
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Penang, Malaysia Red Lanterns
Red lanterns hanging from the buddha Guanyin statue in a Chinese temple in Penang, Malaysia
This is your

14 Night Spice Route Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Onboard
Anthem of the Seas
Day Port
1 - 2
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From Day 1, - Day 2, 2:00 PM
3
Muscat, Oman
From 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4 - 5
Cruising
Day at sea
6
Mumbai (Bombay), India
From 4:00 AM - 6:00 PM
7
Cruising
Day at sea
8
Cochin, India
From 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
9 - 11
Cruising
Day at sea
12
Phuket, Thailand
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
13
Penang, Malaysia
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
14 - 15
Singapore, Singapore
From Day 14, 6:00 PM - Day 15,
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Anthem of the Seas

Your ship
Anthem of the Seas
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Anthem of the Seas, Aerial view with North Star
An aerial view of Anthem of the Seas with North Star
Get to know
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas® isn't the same old song. It's a Tri-State thrill ride that packs in cutting edge experiences— like North Star®, which gives you 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level. And flavor firsts, like creative fare at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Plus showstoppers like We Will Rock You.

UPGRADE YOUR PLAY

Defy gravity with a free-falling experience on Ripcord® by iFLY®. Practice your surf skills on the FlowRider® surf simulator. Score views 300 feet above sea level in North Star®. And witness a spellbinding show in Two70®.

A CULINARY CAPITAL AT SEA

This is a culinary scene to rival many metropolitan cities. Get your family-style fix at Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, and sip cocktails crafted by robots at the Bionic Bar®. Venture down the rabbit hole at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Or dine like a VIP at Coastal Kitchen — exclusively for suites guests and Pinnacle Club members.

WHOA- WORTHY SHOWS

Settle in for the best of Broadway at Sea. Watch as cinema, pop culture and tech combine in Spectra's Cabaret. Embark on a musical journey of fantasy and illusion in The Gift. And rock out to Queen classics in We Will Rock You.

Day 1 - 2: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Day 1 - 2
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
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Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Artificial palm island
Things to do in
Dubai
From Day 1, - Day 2, 2:00 PM
Dubai, one of the seven territories that make up the United Arab Emirates, is a sprawling multicultural city that has grown enormously in recent decades. Here, you'll find everything you could possibly ask for in a modern metropolis: world-class shopping, architectural triumphs and luxurious ways to dine and relax. Cruise to Dubai and stroll along the Dubai Marina waterfront past the many large yachts and futuristic high-rises. Relax on the sandy beach at Kite Beach or Sunset Beach, overlooking the iconic sail-shaped hotel Burj Al Arab. Explore the charming Souq Madinat Jumeirah village, with its network of canals that pass Arabian-style hotels and lush gardens. Then, check out the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood and its distinctive sand-colored traditional buildings.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Al Fahidi Historical District
Woman in traditional muslim black dress in old arabic city district with mosque minaret in Al Fahidi Historical District of Dubai

Old Ways Still Alive

Stroll around the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical District, where you can get an impression of life in this emirate before oil was discovered in the 1960s. Explore the narrow walking lanes with their sand-colored houses, cafes and galleries. Then visit Dubai Museum, built in 1787 and the oldest existing building in Dubai.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Aerial Views Of City
Aerial views of the city of Dubai from the top of the Burj Khalifa skyscraper

On Top of the World

Stand on the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views of this extraordinary city. At 828 meters, this narrow tower is the world's tallest so far. It has an observation deck on the 124th and the 148th floor, and a restaurant-bar on the 122nd. Book tickets well in advance.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Class Buildings
Classic historical buildings in Dubai before the oil boom in the 1960s

Maze of Modern Life

Head to Madinat Jumeirah, one of Dubai's most attractive developments. With your Dubai cruise, stroll along the desert-colored villas and hotels, alongside waterways with palms, banana trees and bougainvillea. Sit down in one of the trendy local cafes for a refreshing fruit juice. At the heart of this modern village lies Souq Madinat Jumeirah, a maze-like bazaar with shops lining wood-framed walkways.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Grilled Meat Shawarma
Cooking grilled meat shawarma to make hot kebabs, a typical street food in Dubai

Local Cuisine

You'll be able to find food from anywhere around the globe here — but focus on the local fare for the most authentic experience with Dubai cruises. While you're out on the town, pick up a shawarma, shaved strips of spicy spit-roasted meat served in pita bread. Try manousheh, a flatbread topped with local Akkawi cheese and za'atar herbs. Slate your sweet tooth with luqaimat, fried dough balls spiced with saffron and cardamom.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates Carpets Market
Carpets found in the markets of Dubai

Shopping

Pick one of the large number of malls in this shopping Mecca. There's Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping center, as well as the Mall of Emirates. For a more traditional experience, browse the colorful souqs in Bur Dubai and Deira for Persian carpets, Arabic coffee pots and other trinkets.

Day 3: Muscat, Oman

Day 3
Muscat
Oman
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Muscat, Oman Religion Clear Sky Mosque
Views of the city of Muscat, Oman with clear skies and views of mosques and city buildings
Things to do in
Muscat
From 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
In Muscat, Oman's attractive capital, you'll find a city steeped in the medieval heritage of the Middle East. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront Mutrah Corniche, with the brilliant blue sea on one side, eastern-style white buildings lining the street on the other and the arid Hajar mountains in the background. Stop at the Mutrah souq, a traditional Arab market (closed in the afternoon) where you can buy Omani and Indian artifacts and antiques. Don't miss the stately Grand Mosque — the immense Persian carpet in the main prayer hall took a whole four years to weave. Cruise to Muscat and check out the Al Alam Palace with its blue and gold facade, and see the sand-colored 16th-century Portuguese forts nearby.
Muscat, Oman Fort Ocean
Impressive twin forts called Fort Al-Jalali at the entrance of Old Muscat's harbor near Sultan Qaboos palace in Muscat, Oman

Portuguese Past

The Portuguese occupiers built the impressive Al Jalali and Al Mirani Fort in the 16th century. Although they're closed to the public, they're a stunning backdrop for stroll along the harbor. The forts are on both sides high on the cliffs guarding the city's entrance.
Insider tip
Muscat's non-airport taxis are orange and white and don't have meters. Agree on the rate before you get in.
Muscat, Oman Fort Oceans
Impressive twin forts called Fort Al-Jalali at the entrance of Old Muscat's harbor near Sultan Qaboos palace in Muscat, Oman

Play Sultan

Visit the Grand Mosque (open in the morning), a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos and a mix of Omani, Islamic and modern architecture. It can accommodate 20,000 worshippers and has a rich prayer hall, an elaborate chandelier and a huge Persian carpet that took four years to weave.
Insider tip
There are numerous ATMs throughout Muscat where you can get Omani Rial (OMR).
Muscat, Oman National Museum
The National Museum entrance in Muscat, Oman

Picturesque Heritage

Learn more about Oman's past in the elegant New National Museum in Old Muscat. Browse the beautifully presented archaeological artifacts, manuscripts and ship models during your Muscat cruise. When you're done, snap a photo of the Al Alam Palace with its blue and gold pillars opposite the museum.
Insider tip
Cover your legs and shoulders outside beach and pool areas to respect the local customs.
Muscat, Oman Arabic Food
A traditional arabic meal with rice, meats, and sauces

Local Cuisine

The traditional dish of Oman is majboos (also called kabsa), basmati rice with spicy beef, chicken or fish — typically local-caught lobster, mackerel or red snapper — served with yogurt sauce. Perk up with a cup of kahwa, the local coffee mixed with cardamom powder, served alongside dates and sweets after a meal.
Muscat, Oman Colorful Lanterns
Beautiful and colorful decorative lamp shade lanterns being sold at the Muttrah Square in Muscat, Oman

Shopping

Head to Mutrah Souq, Muscat's oldest market and one of the most characterful souqs in the region. Cruise to Muscat and browse a variety of goods and souvenirs like frankincense, perfumes, gold and silver jewelry, Omani hats and ornate decorative lamps with traditional geometric patterns. You can also shop in The Avenues or one of the other big modern malls for more modern retail therapy.

Day 4 - 5: Cruising

Day 4 - 5
Cruising
At Sea
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Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
North Star Pool Deck Aerial
North Star Raised Above Rear of the Ship

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Solarium at Sunset
Sunset at the Solarium Pool

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Young Boy Climbing Rock
Young Boy Reaching the Top of the Rock Wall

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.

Day 6: Mumbai, India

Day 6
Mumbai
Bombay, India
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Mumbai (Bombay), India Flora Fountain
Flora Fountain and Oriental old building on a sunny day in Mumbai, India
Things to do in
Mumbai
From 4:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Known as Bombay in colonial times, Mumbai today is one of India's most cosmopolitan cities. Marvel at the towering Gateway of India, the enormous arch that's one of India's most recognizable symbols. Cruise to Mumbai and head to Shri Mahalakshmi temple and pay homage to the garland-adorned statues of three goddesses within, and take in the bright white facade of the 15th-century mosque Haji Ali — you have to take a narrow walkway only accessible at low tide to get there. Drive 45 minutes out to the Elephanta Caves, where both Hindu and Buddhist prayer sites are carved out of rock. Then, wind down with views of both the city and the sea at Chowpatty Beach.
Mumbai (Bombay), India Gateway
Gateway of India, arch monument in Mumbai, India

Memorable Mumbai

South Mumbai is the worldliest part of the city and home to many of its most-loved sights. Walk around the base of the massive Gateway of India — the arch-shaped monument was built in 1924 and meant to be the first thing visitors see when they arrive by boat. Or pop your head inside the Taj Mahal Palace hotel, one of India's most opulent and recognizable buildings.
Insider tip
It takes a long time to get around in Mumbai, in spite of how small the city center looks, no matter what transit time Google Maps gives you.
Mumbai (Bombay), India Marine Drive
View of Mumbai, India, from Marine Drive

Seaside Meditation

Communion with nature is more meditative when you make the journey to the seaside Shree Mahalakshmi Temple — less than an hour each way from the cruise terminal by taxi. And check out Chowpatty Beach, where thousands of locals come to dunk statues of the god Ganesh into the waves each year in September.
Insider tip
Walk into the city with an open mind, and duck into a cafe or restaurant to take a break if you feel overwhelmed.
Mumbai (Bombay), India Elephanta Caves
Statues inside the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, India

Carved From History

Hop aboard one of the many boats bound for Elephanta Island, which sits just offshore from Mumbai and is home to the Elephanta Caves. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll find caves full of otherworldly rock carvings in both the Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Mumbai (Bombay), India Masala Dosa
Masala dosa with potato stuffed inside, very popular breakfast in Mumbai, India

Local Cuisine

Mumbai is home to fine restaurants, but the best way to understand its culinary disposition is with its street food. Sit down for a masala dosa, India's take on a crepe, which in Mumbai is served with spicy tomato sauce. During your cruise to India, enjoy one of the many fritters for sale at Chowpatty Beach — the potato-and-onion bhaji is popular among vegetarians.
Mumbai (Bombay), India Colorful Dresses
Colorful traditional Indian dresses selling at the street vendors in Mumbai, India

Shopping

Mumbai is a shopper's pardise, whether you take a walk down Colaba Causeway to browse traditional Mahrashtran jewelry or snag a vintage Bollywood movie poster from any of the souvenir stalls in Apollo Bandar, the neighborhood nearest to the cruise ship terminal. Alternatively, take home a piece of Indian fashion in the form of a woman's sari.

Day 7: Cruising

Day 7
Cruising
At Sea
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La Patisserie
La Patisserie Entrance with Outside Dining
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Parfait Dessert, Coastal Kitchen
Parfait Dessert, Coastal Kitchen

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. The menu is filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees.
Couple Enjoying Date Night at Chops Grille
Couple Enjoying Date Night at Chops Grille

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.
Solarium Bistro Breakfast
Solarium Bistro Buffet Style Breakfast

Solarium Bistro Restaurant

Emphasizing fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Solarium Bistro offers a bright and breezy gastronomic getaway at sea. Serve yourself from stations piled high with Med-inspired dishes and savor every bite inside or al fresco beneath the sun — or the stars.
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich Lunch

The Café @ Two70

The Café@Two70 is a gourmet marketplace where every meal comes with a side of captivating views. Choose from a variety of savory hot-pressed sandwiches, crisp custom-made salads, homemade soups and more — all packed up picnic-style, so you can enjoy them while looking out floor-to-ceiling windows in Two70® or anywhere else onboard.

Day 8: Cochin, India

Day 8
Cochin
India
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Cochin, India Jungle Boat Cruise
Wooden boat cruise in backwaters jungle in Kochin, Kerala, India
Things to do in
Cochin
From 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Kerala is the talk of the town when it comes to travel in India, and the city of Cochin gives you a glimpse into why people love the state so much. Walk the streets of Cochin Fort — here, you'll find the St. Francis Church, India's oldest colonial-built place of worship, as well as bustling Princess Street, with its colorful architecture displaying Dutch, Portuguese and British influence. See the Chinese fishing nets at the bay, purportedly brought here in the 14th century by emissaries of emperor Kublai Khan. Cruise to Cochin and explore the ornate Paradesi Synagogue and learn more about Kerala's historic Jewish community, or feast on a paratha flatbread at a local eatery.
Cochin, India Old Church
Old white Church in Cochin, India

Multicultural Roots

Although you will find a physical fort in Cochin's Old Town, it's what's inside the walls that's the most impressive. Admire the colorful storefronts of Princess Street, stroll around the well-kept grounds of St. Francis Church, or visit the Paradesi Synagogue in Jewish Town, which provides a fascinating look into the Jewish heritage of Kerala.
Insider tip
Cochin is completely walkable, but a cycle rickshaw is a scenic way to take in the Old Town. Haggling is expected, and drivers always quote you a high rate to begin with, so don't be afraid to talk them down.
Cochin, India Chinese Fishing Nets
Chinese fishing nets hanging over the ocean in Cochin, India

Caught in a Net

Another photogenic Cochin attraction is the so-called Chinese Fishing Nets, which are the same types of devices Chinese fishermen have been using here for centuries. These exist all over Kerala, but the ones on the northern end of Fort Cochin are particularly stunning, especially at sunset.
Insider tip
Travel agencies in Cochin advertise half-day trips to outlying attractions like the Kerala Backwaters and Munnar Hill Country, but be up-front about your cruise departure time with the agent to make sure you don't miss your ship.
Cochin, India Ayurvedic Treatment
Woman getting ayurvedic treatment Shirodara with hot oil pouring on a forehead

Get an Ayurvedic Treatment

Kerala is famous for Ayurveda, and Old Cochin boasts dozens of parlors where you can sample this traditional Indian health method. Whether you get a relaxing massage using fragrant locally sourced oil or a reflexology treatment, Ayurveda is as enjoyable for people curious about alternative medicine as it is for tried-and-true naturopaths.
Cochin, India Crab Masala
Crab masala served with jasmin rice in Cochin, India

Local Cuisine

Cochin is one of Kerala's best spots for traditional South Indian fare. Cruise to India and be sure to stop in a local seafood restaurant near the Chinese Fishing Nets. Try zesty Crab Masala, which pairs locally caught whole crabs with India's most famous spice blend. Sample appams, a fluffy pancake made from fermented rice, or head to ultra-popular Dal Roti for kathi rolls, a paratha flatbread wrapped around skewer-roasted meat.
Cochin, India Incense Sticks
Colorful incense sticks found in the markets of Cochin, India

Shopping

Whether or not you have a chance to get an Ayurvedic treatment, you can take home a piece of this culture treasure during your India cruise. Shops along Princess Street not only sell oils used in Ayurvedic massage, such as romantic rose and sensual sandalwood, as well as handmade incense sticks that will make your home smell like the streets of Cochin.

Day 9 - 11: Cruising

Day 9 - 11
Cruising
At Sea
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Sunshine Bar
Sunshine Bar by the Pool at Night
NIGHTS YOU'LL NEVER FORGET
Music Hall Rock Band Stage
Music Hall Rock Band Stage

Music Hall℠

At Music Hall℠, no night sounds the same as the last. Get a front row view from anywhere on the dance floor while live music plays — or take in the scene in an intimate hideaway corner with your favorite cocktails.
The Gift Cruise Show Performers on Stage Dancing Royal Caribbean
Performers dancing on blue stage during the Gift Cruise Show by Royal Caribbean

The Gift

Embark on a musical journey of fantasy and illusion that begins one stormy night with the arrival of a magical gift.
Two70 Starwater Show
Dancer and Singers Performing on the Starwater Show

Two70®

By day, it's an open area living room with panoramic views through windows two decks high. By night, the lights go down, the windows become screens and the space comes alive with aerialists, robots and much more. This is Two70® — a place that can take you anyplace.
Anthem of the Seas Skybar North Bar Cocktails
Anthem of the Seas Skybar North Bar Cocktails

North Star Bar

After you’ve taken a ride on the North Star℠, featuring brilliant 360º views from 300 feet above sea level, celebrate your unforgettable ascent with something sparkling, mixed, frosty, or tropical. At North Star Bar, the sips are just as impressive as the sights.

Day 12: Phuket, Thailand

Day 12
Phuket
Thailand
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Phuket, Thailand Longtale Boat On Beach
Longtale boat on the white beach at Phuket, Thailand
Things to do in
Phuket
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The island of Phuket (pronounced "Poo-ket") is often called the Pearl of Thailand — and once you set foot on pristine beaches and see its crystalline blue water, you'll understand why. Cruise to Phuket, Thailand and start your day by diving right in — literally — at Kata Noi Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot where you can soak in the sun and sand and unwind. Then, head to the nearby Karon Viewpoint for unparalleled views of the Andaman Sea and the area's lush mountainous landscape. In town, see the Big Buddha of Phuket — the white marble likeness of the holy figure stands 45 meters tall. Then, see the elaborate temple of Wat Chalong and its Grand Pagoda, where it's believed a splinter of bone from the Buddha himself resides.
Phuket, Thailand Nature Exotic Ocean
Exotic mountain rocks coming out of the ocean in Phuket, Thailand

Big-Screen Islands

Pha Nga Bay has several karst islands that can be explored by longtail boat, including the sheer cliffs of James Bond Island, featured in "The Man With the Golden Gun." Some islands are shaped like doughnuts with shallow calm water inside, only reachable at low tide. Popular Phi Phi (pronounced "pee-pee") Island was featured in the movie "The Beach."
Insider tip
Negotiate carefully for transportation on longtail boats and taxis — writing down the agreed upon price can prevent disputes.
Phuket, Thailand Snorkeling
Snorkeling at Phi Phi Island, Phuket, Thailand

Get Underwater

The waters surrounding Phuket have great snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to the bay's warm, clean waters and lively marine ecosystems. Snorkel off the beach at Ao Sane, next to Nai Harn Beach, at Kata Noi or near Patong at Paradise Beach. Drift past anemones, parrot fish and various types of coral.
Insider tip
Wat Chalong Temple is an active place of worship: Cover your shoulders while inside as a gesture of respect.
Phuket, Thailand Big Buddha Statue Temple Monastery
The big buddha statue at the temple, monastery in Phuket, Thailand

Big Buddha

Above Nakkerd Hills is a 147-foot-tall white Buddha statue, which you can see from many parts of the island — hike up to the statue itself, which is surprisingly uncrowded. It's covered in Burmese white jade marble, and next to it is a smaller Buddha made from brass. The trek also comes with the bonus of breathtaking views down to the sea.
Phuket, Thailand Colorful Thai Food
Colorful thai food in bowls with shrimp pad thai and bowls of rice

Local Cuisine

Sample Thailand's famous cuisine at street stalls or sit-down restaurants. If you're not sure what to order, ask for pad kra prao — stir-fried meat (usually chicken or pork) prepared with chili peppers and Thai holy basil. The level of spiciness can be tailored to your taste, and adding in a fried egg is optional — though highly recommended.
Phuket, Thailand Buddha Souvenirs
Traditional buddha souvenirs sold in Thailand

Shopping

Silks are always a good buy in Thailand; choose from scarves in every color, pillowcases or clothing. Cruise to Phuket and pick up a carved elephant in wood, metal or stone. At home, place it facing a doorway for good feng shui.

Day 13: Penang, Malaysia

Day 13
Penang
Malaysia
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Penang, Malaysia Colorful Temple
Color temple located in Penang, Malaysia called 'Kek Lok Si'
Things to do in
Penang
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
An island state just off the coast of northwest Malaysia, Penang is rich in diverse cultural influences thanks to its history as a trading center between India, China, Britain and the Middle East. Head to historic George Town, the island's capital city, where bicycles and trishaws (three-wheeled, pedal-powered vehicles) dart along narrow streets lined with mural-adorned buildings and varied architecture. Cruise to Penang to step into the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia at St. George's, or check out the Kapitan Keling Mosque. Then, take the tram up to the cooler, minty-fresh air of Penang Hill — walk through the bird sanctuary or one of the nature trails, and take in views of the city below and the mountains in the distance.
Penang, Malaysia Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion
Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion in Penang, Malaysia

Malaysian Mansions

Make your way to the Blue Mansion, dating back to the 1880s, and snap a photo from outside or take a tour of its 38 rooms. Or check out the Pinang Peranakan Museum, housed in a 19th-century mansion, where you'll see intricate Peranakan clothing, jewelry and the history of the island and people.
Insider tip
Walk carefully: Sidewalks are often used for motorcycle parking so it can be easier to walk on the road.
Penang, Malaysia Street Art
Street art of a boy riding a motorcycle in Penang, Malaysia

Neighborhood Flavor

Walk through George Town to experience Penang's historic architecture — be sure to make frequent stops to sample the famous street food, with dishes like char koay teow, fried strips of rice cake with soy sauce, sausage and shrimp. Stroll around the UNESCO zone and check out the unique street art, often with historical or political undertones.
Insider tip
If you have time and are looking to stretch your legs, hike up Penang Hill instead of taking the tram — the trek takes about 90 minutes.
Penang, Malaysia Guanyin Goddess Buddha
The statue of Guanyin or Goddess of Mercy at Chinese buddhist temple, Penang, Malaysia

Rich in Religions

Penang is rich in distinctive architecture from many of the world's religions. See the fresco-covered Dharmikarama Burmese Temple, the only Burmese temple outside of Myanmar with your cruise to Penang. Check out Taoist Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) Temple — built in 1728, it's Penang's oldest religious site. Or head to Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple, covered with colorful soldiers and goddesses.
Penang, Malaysia Oyster Omelette
A close up of fresh oyster mixed into an omelette

Local Cuisine

Penang is world-renowned for its street food. Snack on an oyster omelette, in which oysters are fried with eggs and scallions and made crispy with rice flour. Experience the region's Indian influence with tandoori chicken and naan bread. Try Penang's signature dessert, cendol — shaved ice with coconut milk topped with palm sugar, sweet beans and green gummies made from pandan leaf jelly.
Penang, Malaysia Souvenir Shops
Souvenir shops in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

Shopping

The Penang Perankan Mansion houses historic beaded shoes of Nonya design — look for replicas in the shops and street vendors throughout George Town. Check out the Chowrasta Bazaar for handmade clothing, antique watches, traditional fans and other unique finds.

Day 14 - 15: Singapore, Singapore

Day 14 - 15
Singapore
Singapore
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Singapore, Singapore Chinese Garden Twin Pagoda
Beautiful day at Chinese Garden Twin Pagoda in Singapore
Things to do in
Singapore
From Day 14, 6:00 PM - Day 15,
Singapore is small in size but big on excitement. Discover the multicultural medley of this city-state through its neighborhoods: Check out the statue-adorned temples of Little India and the colorful pagodas of Chinatown. Cruise to Singapore and explore the city's Malay section on the Kampong Glam Heritage Trail, which will take you past Arabic-influenced mansions and the gold-dome-topped Masjid Sultan mosque. Experience the contrast between the lush rainforest flora of the Singapore Botanic Garden and the high-tech "supertrees" and biodomes of Gardens by the Bay. Complete your Singapore adventure with a panorama from the rooftop of the Marina Bay Sands or a Singapore Sling cocktail at the historical Raffles Hotel.
Singapore, Singapore Masjid Sultan Street View
View of the street with Masjid Sultan in the background in Singapore

Multicultural Medley

Singapore has four official languages and even more ethnicities that have influenced its culture. Discover the city's Muslim heritage at Sultan Mosque along Arab Street and its Chinese character (and food!) in Chinatown. Little India is the heart of the city's Tamil Indian community, while Kampong Glam is the epicenter of Malay-speaking Singapore.
Insider tip
Taxis in Singapore are plentiful, but locals increasingly use applications (namely, the "Grab" app) to get around. Consider downloading this before you dock in Singapore.
Singapore, Singapore Gardens By The Bay Park
Sculptural vegetation towers from Gardend by the Bay in Singapore

Two Sides of Nature

Singapore's tropical landscape is as diverse as its culture. The Singapore Botanic Garden (and adjoining Orchid Garden) approach horticulture from a more traditional perspective, while the spacey Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay would seem more at home in "Avatar" than an issue of "Better Homes and Gardens."
Insider tip
Although Singaporeans speak English natively, the accent (lovingly called "Singlish") can sometimes be tricky to grasp at first. If you don't understand what someone says to you, politely ask them to repeat.
Singapore, Singapore Marina Bay Sands Hotel
Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore

Zoom In, Zoom Out

Head to the rooftop of the massive Marina Bay Sands to enjoy a panorama of the Singapore skyline, which is also beautiful as seen from the city's symbolic Merlion statue on the other side of the bay. Or visit a more inward-looking Singapore icon when you order an original Singapore Sling cocktail at the Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel.
Singapore, Singapore Wantan Mee
Wantan Mee, popular street food noodles with bbq pork, in Singapore

Local Cuisine

The best way to get a cross-section of Singaporean cuisine is to visit its street vendors, or hawkers, in hubs like Tiong Bahru. Jump onboard a Singapore cruise to try Cantonese-derived wantan mee noodles, with dumplings and yellow egg noodles topped with slices of char siu pork. Snack on chai tow kway, also called carrot cake, even though it's made from rice flour and daikon radish fried with eggs in pork fat.
Singapore, Singapore Chopsticks
Colorful variety of chopsticks in a small shop in Chinatown, Singapore

Shopping

Singapore is a shopper's paradise, whether you stick to the high-end boutiques of Orchard Road or the local shops throughout the city. One way to guarantee a special souvenir during your Singapore cruise vacation is to shop in the city's ethnic neighborhoods: Seek out chopsticks and lacquerware in Chinatown or incense and South India dolls in Little India.

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