Benoa to Manila

Bali. A.k.a. Island of the Gods, Land of a thousand temples or the World’s last paradise. As superlative as these monikers may sound, they do not do justice to the actual reality of the island. Bali is as good as everyone says – verdant mountains with terraced rice fields in one direction, black sand beaches in another and captivating people that will leave even the most seasoned traveller humbled. If you’re looking for a Garden of Eden that really does have it everything, Bali ticks all the boxes. The rich and diverse culture of the island is what sets Bali apart from Indonesia’s (many) other tropical paradises. The country’s estimated 10,000 Buddhist-Hindu temples, with their daily offerings of lotus flowers and fruit are testament to the gentleness of the islander’s belief. Then there is the vibrant arts and crafts scene, notably in Ubud in the centre of the island, but prolific everywhere. Ideal souvenirs to bring back range from gorgeous silver jewellery to intricate wood carvings. Additionally, do try to see a traditional dance if possible, particularly if accompanied to local gamelan music. No one could mention Bali without mentioning the food. Dishes range from elaborate meals to street food bites, but all are without exception ambrosia. Do not miss out on tasting a succulent chicken satay, betutu (apparently the King’s favourite meal) and sambal matah. But whatever you decide to discover, you can be assured of a taste sensation that will remain with you long after you have returned home.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Once the gateway to Indonesia, Makassar is teeming with vestiges of its Dutch colonial past. The port, also known by its one-time name Ujung Pandang, was part of the Dutch East India Company from 1699 the early 1800s, and then as a part of the Netherlands Indies (or Dutch East Indies) until its liberation after WWII. Street signs follow the traditional European alphabet, so any visitor not versed in the city’s official language of Makassarese needn’t worry about getting lost! Fort Rotterdam on the western coast of the city is perhaps Makassar’s most iconic landmark. It was from here that trades between Holland and Indonesia was struck and the fort has played a large role in Makassar’s development. Originally named Benteng or Fort Jumpandang, the fort was built in 1545, but has been expanded many times over its long history. Because of the fort’s enormity, it became Indonesia’s centre for stockpiling spices prior to their dispatch to Europe. The building is unmissable – one stroll down the (very pleasant) boulevard will take you right to its gates. If you feel the call of the wild while in Makassar, fear not, as the Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park is just 50 kilometres away. The limestone hills, steep karts walls and tropical heat have made the park an ideal breeding ground for butterflies. The park is also home to an immense 15 x 20 metre waterfall that is said to “lift the spirits of all who see it”. Next to the waterfall is Goa Mimpi or The Dream Cave, which has millennia old cave art.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Meet the extraordinary wildlife of Sabah a place where orange orangutans move through the rainforest and elusive sun bears hide out in the safety of dense canopy. Join the extraordinary animals in rehabilitation centres where they are lovingly cared for before often being released back into the jungle's interior. You'll also have the chance to encounter one of nature’s more unusual creatures the bizarre proboscis monkey named after the bulbous swinging noses they sport. Sandakan stretches along a scenic bay looking out over the Sulu Sea. A former trading hub ships voyaged here seeking riches from the thick jungle especially sought after bird nests. Nowadays the city has found its niche as a major palm-oil and cacao exporter. Bridges creaking planks and wooden walkways form an elaborate floating maze over the waves at Sim-Sim Water Village. Visit this fishing hotspot to sample some of the succulent local fare tasting freshly prepared meals like butter prawns seafood broths and fried squid snacks. Having served as the British capital of North Borneo there’s always time for an afternoon tea to keep you refreshed during your explorations. World War II history hangs heavy around the city’s neck and Sandakan was heavily shelled during the hostilities when it was occupied by the Japanese. Visit the Memorial Park to learn of the horrifying Sandakan Death Marches which killed thousands of Allied prisoners of war.

Meet the extraordinary wildlife of Sabah a place where orange orangutans move through the rainforest and elusive sun bears hide out in the safety of dense canopy. Join the extraordinary animals in rehabilitation centres where they are lovingly cared for before often being released back into the jungle's interior. You'll also have the chance to encounter one of nature’s more unusual creatures the bizarre proboscis monkey named after the bulbous swinging noses they sport. Sandakan stretches along a scenic bay looking out over the Sulu Sea. A former trading hub ships voyaged here seeking riches from the thick jungle especially sought after bird nests. Nowadays the city has found its niche as a major palm-oil and cacao exporter. Bridges creaking planks and wooden walkways form an elaborate floating maze over the waves at Sim-Sim Water Village. Visit this fishing hotspot to sample some of the succulent local fare tasting freshly prepared meals like butter prawns seafood broths and fried squid snacks. Having served as the British capital of North Borneo there’s always time for an afternoon tea to keep you refreshed during your explorations. World War II history hangs heavy around the city’s neck and Sandakan was heavily shelled during the hostilities when it was occupied by the Japanese. Visit the Memorial Park to learn of the horrifying Sandakan Death Marches which killed thousands of Allied prisoners of war.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The only sea gateway to Brunei, Muara welcomes you to a tiny country of amazing animals, dense rainforests, and soaring religious monuments. Head for the immense mosques, famed beaches and dive sites, or visit villages teetering above the water on stilts - as you explore a city and country of immense cultural interest and religious heritage. Brunei’s mosques are richly diverse and incredibly ambitious artistic achievements. Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the larger of the two national mosques, and a vast, spectacular accomplishment that fits 5,000 worshipers inside. Adorned with 29 golden domes, the craftmanship is dazzling – inside you’ll see intricately decorated tiles and mosaic patterns. Outside pretty gardens and fountains glow majestically among a sea of lights. The other highlight is Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, which is perhaps the most magnificent. Enter to see sparkling English chandeliers hanging from the roof, and beautiful Arabic carpets spreading across its floors. The porcelain-white facade and shining domes reflect strikingly on the man-made lagoon it towers above. The floating village of Kampong Ayer teeters on stilts over the Brunei Rivera. Enter a friendly and welcoming community, as you explore along wooden bridges and pathways. Elsewhere, embark on mangrove cruises and venture to dense, ancient rainforests that are home to wonderful wildlife like proboscis monkeys. For beaches, try gorgeous Meragang Beach to watch as the glowing sun dips into the sea’s waves each evening.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Bohol is an island province consisting of Bohol Island and 75 minor surrounding islands. Its capital is Tagbilaran City. With a land area of 1,589.7 sq mi and a coastline 162 mi, Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippines. In the 1600’s, the Jesuits introduced Christianity to the region. They built huge churches, which were declared heritage sites in the early 2000’s. Unfortunately most of these churches were heavily damaged by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake of 2013. Today, some of these churches are being restored. The province is a popular tourist destination for its beaches, historical sites, natural beauty & geological features, such as the Chocolate Hills that consist of over 1600 hills of limestone formation. The island of Panglao, located just southwest of Tagbilaran City, is famous for its diving and routinely listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. The Philippine Tarsier, considered the second-smallest primate in the world, is indigenous to the island.

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7600 islands and tiny Kalanggamman Island, set between Cebu and Leyte is widely considered to be the most beautiful of all, a slice of paradise on earth. The approach to the island offers a first glimpse of abundant picturesque palm trees sprouting from whiter than white sand, seemingly floating in the middle of the clearest blue sea. The island was named “langgam”, a local word meaning bird and is indeed a rare bird. Just 750 metres long, you can walk round the bird shaped island in little under an hour. At low tide a stroll along the long sandbar of powdery sand and tiny seashells is the perfect place for a sublime photo opportunity. The blue and green crystal waters are enticing and swimming, snorkeling and diving opportunities are not to be missed. Once under the water, a colourful new world opens up, coral gardens teeming with shoals of exotic fish, sea turtles swimming lazily past, A peaceful and relaxing vibe predominates the island as visitors relish the outstanding beauty of this simple and secluded spot. The northern part of the island is quieter still, the only sounds being the sea breeze rustling the palm leaves and crashing waves. A barbeque of grilled fish on the beach, as the evening brings spectacular sunsets in buttery colou

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Manila is the Philippine's sprawling capital city and a chaotic scramble of intoxicating urban energy. A megacity of culture and creativity, there's a lot to discover amid these chockablock streets. The delicious food wins many fans, but it’s the friendly Filipinos - always eager to help - who ensure that Manila takes a special place in the hearts of many visitors. The Baywalk is one of the city's best places for catching a legendarily intense sunset - or wandering among joggers and leisurely strollers. The city's Intramuros area is its cobbled historic core - and was the centre of power when the Spanish ruled these lands. Decorated with colonial architecture and citadels, the district is known for its rumbling horsedrawn carriages and storied history. Head to Fort Santiago, which aims canons out across the water from its chunky stone walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site stands against the odds, despite World War II bombardments, fires and earthquakes - a true testament to Manila's incredible resilience. As one of the most densely populated places in the world, Manilla can be manically busy at times, but you can always escape to Rizal Park. With Chinese and Japanese gardens and plenty of room for open-air events, it's a beautiful oasis within the city. It's also an incredibly important national symbol, as the location where the hero of independence, Jose Rizal, was executed. A large statue now memorialises him here, and the park was renamed in his honour.