Culture, Cuisine & Beautiful Beaches

Fly to Singapore, and stay two nights at the New Majestic. Slick and futuristic, with towering sky-scrapers and everything running like clockwork, Singapore is a serene metropolis that eases you in gently to your Malaysian adventure. However, for something a bit more exciting, we’ve got you staying in the heart of bustling Chinatown at the funky yet contemporary hotel, The New Majestic.

Stepping out from this former shop-house, you can hit the lantern-lined streets for some of the most authentic and delicious Chinese food; pick up some quirky finds amongst the little boutiques, and then head on to Orchard Road for designer shopping. We’ve also included an afternoon ’bum-boat’ ride along the river – stopping off at the tranquil orchid gardens and a fantastic street-food market – and then by night you can sample some famous chilli crab, and enjoy the perfect Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

It’s a private transfer across the border to Malaysia, and here you’ll stay two nights in the small town of Malacca. One of Malaysia’s most historic harbour-towns, picturesque Malacca was once a major trade-hub linking China with India – and hence you’ll find a fascinating hotch-potch of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Dutch and British influences. To transport you back in time, we’ve chosen the elegant Majestic Hotel which sits on the banks of the river and really embodies that sense of colonial grandeur.

From here you can take a relaxing river cruise past the colourful colonial trading houses, and then wander down Jonker Street where you’ll find some amazing centuries-old antiques. Foodies will also be in absolute heaven in Malacca, and having had your first taste of traditional Nyonya cuisine in The Majestic’s grandiose dining room, you’ll head out to try yet more delicious delicacies. Must-tries include “wedding soup” – with its soft black nuts, cracked open and eaten with a spoon – spicy tamarind curry, and extraordinary tapioca jellies which come in every colour of the rainbow.

“Back to the future” again as you’re driven from Malacca to Malaysia’s buzzing capital, Kuala Lumpur. Aptly described as “Bladerunner meets Bollywood,” Kuala Lumpur is more chaotic and “earthy” compared with slick Singapore, and is more interesting in terms of history. As the perfect base for appreciating the mix of old and new, we’ve chosen the ultra-contemporary urban hangout, Hotel Maya, which has a fantastic spa and views of the Petronas Towers from its sky-lounge. Together with your guide, you’ll once again encounter an eclectic mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences and learn how this futuristic city was carved out from what was nothing more than jungle. Along the way, you can pick up some colourful trinkets from the Indian markets; see how traditional flat-breads are made out and sample them, before popping in to a Chinese tea-house to watch an intricate tea ritual.

You’ll be starting to see just how varied Malaysia is, as you’re driven from lively Kuala Lumpur to the peaceful and fertile Cameron Highlands. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush tea plantations, the Cameron Highlands Resort is the perfect place to have a bit of a breather, and dip your toes into the history of this quaint colonial hill-station. Wake up at this wonderfully old-fashioned hotel with a freshly plucked brew, and then go for a relaxing bike ride through the undulating tea plantations. Along the way you’ll see locals weaving baskets and selling fruit and veg…pass Tudor-style houses and English rose gardens, and stop off at a pick-your own for strawberries and cream-teas. If you’re feeling energetic, you can head right up into the mountains for beautiful views of jungle and waterfalls – and don’t forget to pay a visit to the colourful night market before heading on to Penang.

Over the bridge from mainland Malaysia is the tiny island of Penang, and having been driven here you’ll spend three nights in the colourful harbour-hangout, Georgetown. 23 Love Lane is a collection of beautifully restored period properties, dating from the 1800s, and with this as your base, you'll be perfectly placed to wander the UNESCO-heritage town; soak up the bustling-bohemian vibe, and the strong Chinese influence that makes it so unique. One of our favourite ways to explore is by hopping in one of the flower-bedecked trishaws: weaving down the narrow streets past dragon-covered temples, and stopping off for some of the best hawker-street food you’ve ever tasted.

After all that culture, you’ll now have total relaxation on the beautiful island of Langkawi which can be reached either by boat or by plane. Staying four nights at the gorgeous boutique hideaway, Casa del Mar, you’ll soon see why our clients come back year after year what with its chilled-out feel, and wonderfully attentive staff who make you feel really at home. Lie on the beautiful beach as the staff bring you iced waters and cocktails, and then head out for a morning of sea kayaking and snorkelling. Casa del Mar also has a boat for island hopping, so you can visit the pristine little coves, dramatic limestone cliffs, and teeming coral reefs. Spend your last evening at one of the sleepy bars and restaurants – just a ten minute walk along the beach – before flying back to Kuala Lumpur where you’ll catch your return flight home.