Singapore, Thailand & the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express Train Through Malaysia

(14 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Singapore, Langkawi, Penang & George Town, Bangkok, Chiang Mai

On this exclusive tour, enjoy a luxurious train journey aboard the legendary Eastern & Oriental Express through Peninsular Malaysia, with stops at George Town, Langkawi and other destinations, combined with private touring and stays at luxury hotels in Singapore, Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Begin in the tropical city-state of Singapore. During private touring with an expert guide, experience unique cultural heritage in Little India, Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Joo Chiat and other dynamic neighborhoods. Browse bustling local food markets and the best food hawker centers, sample local culinary specialties, visit the most interesting Chinese and Hindu temples, and learn about Peranakan culture and cuisine. Explore amazing contemporary architecture and design highlights such as the Marina Bay Sands complex and Gardens by the Bay, a wonderland of theme gardens, waterways and "supertrees." Also see traditional shophouses and Chinese Baroque architecture, as well as British colonial-era black-and-white buildings in the Historic District.

Next, board the legendary Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond Train, for a luxurious journey through Peninsular Malaysia. Enjoy the romance of restored vintage train carriages, relax with afternoon tea and upscale meals in the dining car, have a lively evening in the piano bar car or perhaps book treatments in the on-board spa. From the observation car, take in views of rural villages, rice paddies and rainforests as you travel along the Malay Peninsula. During train-based excursions, enjoy options such as swimming and wellness activities at a Langkawi beach, a boat ride through the mangroves and karsts of Kilim Geoforest Park, spotting birds and monkeys in Perlis Geopark, learning to make batik fabric and touring the former tin-mining boomtown of Ipoh. Other options include visiting the historic center of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see colonial architecture and artists’ studios, take a food tour and cooking class or venture to the top of Penang Hill for panoramic views.

Return by train to Singapore and fly to Bangkok, the fascinating capital of Thailand. Take a private longtail boat ride along the river and through the canals that crisscross central Bangkok. Visit Bangkok’s most important attractions, including the Grand Palace and Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. Learn about Buddhist practices and influences on daily life. Explore colorful markets selling textiles, flowers, Buddhist items, food and crafts. There will also be time for spa appointments swimming in the hotel pool, shopping for exquisite Thai art and dine at some of Southeast Asia's best restaurants.

Continue Chiang Mai, a culturally rich city in rural northern Thailand. Stay at a luxurious and atmospheric resort, surrounded by terraced rice paddies and views of mountains. Learn the nuances of northern Thai cuisine during a private cooking class with a master chef. With your private guide, visit a revered Buddhist temple on a mountain top and see Buddhist monks collecting their morning alms. Also browse crafts districts specializing in local handicrafts such as ceramics, silver, teak furniture, paper umbrellas and silk weavings. Alternatively, take an excursion to an elephant sanctuary. In the evening, explore Chiang Mai’s bustling night market and street food stalls. Other optional activities can be arranged, upon request, such as golf, hiking, shopping and in-depth Buddhist experiences.

Artisans of Leisure can customize many of our private Singapore and Thailand tours to incorporate a journey on the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express.