Stave off the winter blues this year with the help of a trip to the Orient or another part of the beautiful continent of Asia. With vastly differing cultures, intoxicating sights and welcoming people, Asia is a fantastic place to spend a few weeks this winter to keep the spice in your life through the coldest months.
Singapore
Deal: Roundtrip Singapore
Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas
The Republic of Singapore is a highly urbanised island with incredibly unique sounds and sights to explore. More than 10 million tourists visit Singapore every year, many attracted to the island to enjoy the culinary delights for which it is famous. The multicultural nature of Singapore has led to a uniquely diverse fusion cuisine catered to a wide range of discerning palates.
The Roundtrip Singapore starts and finishes on the island giving passengers two chances to enjoy its majesty. The action-packed week-long cruise also takes in three Malaysian ports and a two night stay on the beautiful Thai island of Phuket.
Vietnam
Deal: Vietnam, Thailand & Malaysia Grand Adventure
Ship: Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess
Vietnam’s popularity as a tourist destination is growing rapidly with many people enjoying its still unspoilt beauty. With a number of World Heritage Sites including the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and stretches of beautiful beaches, Vietnam is ideal for visitors wanting to mix culture with relaxation on their trip.
The Sapphire Princess’ 12-night cruise is jam packed with excursions to Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore as well as the all-important jaunt to Vietnam – taking in some of Asia’s finest coastal resorts.
Indonesia
Deal: Gems of Indonesia
Ship: Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Millennium
Indonesia’s rural beauty and relaxed atmosphere has made it a hugely popular retreat for the people of Asia. The sovereign state attracts more than 8 million visitors from all over the world every year looking to take in the dive sites, surf locations, national parks and volcanoes. With more than 300 ethnic groups residing over the 6,000 Indonesian islands, there is an incredibly mixed culture to be experienced whilst visiting.
The highlight of the cruise is undoubtedly the three day stop off in Benoa, Indonesia, giving passengers a fantastic opportunity to take in the area’s incredible beauty, sprawling beaches and azure waters.
Dubai
Deal: Dubai to Fremantle
Ship: Cunard Queen Mary 2
Dubai has been the epicentre of decadence over the past couple of decades with incredible amounts of money being invested to produce one of the world’s foremost upmarket tourist destinations. Awe-inspiring hotels, stunning man-made islands and endless shopping centres make up the breath-taking Emirate.
Spend a few days in Dubai before departing for the Australian city of Fremantle. The comprehensive cruise itinerary tours India, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, China, New Zealand and Australia before culminating in Oz.
Japan
Deal: Japan Jubilee
Ship: Celebrity Cruise’ Celebrity Millennium
One of the most culturally unique and significant countries in the world; Japan is on the bucket list of many a traveller. Viewing the large shadow cast by this island country is most captivating from the sea. Explore the ancient traditions of this country still in operation to this day and experience the careful beauty of the delicate architecture and plant life.
Setting sail from Canada, the Japan Jubilee enjoys a few relaxing days at sea before crossing the international dateline and then touring around a number of Japanese ports including Hakodate and culminating the fascinating capital city, Tokyo.
Hong Kong
Deal: New Years in Hong Kong
Ship: Azamara Club Cruises Azamara Quest
The often disruptive and mixed history of Hong Kong has produced an area with a uniquely varied culture. With heavy British, Japanese and Chinese influences peppered throughout the streets of Hong Kong, there is a surprise around every corner for the uninitiated in this vibrant and intoxicating city.
Setting sail just before Christmas, the big day is spent in Malaysia before setting sail for Hong Kong. New Year’s Eve is spent in the incredible state, celebrating in style before another two days’ cruising. The trip culminates in a cultural three day stay in Hong Kong.
For more information about Cruise1st’s great range of Asia cruises, call 0808 2746 777 to speak to our dedicated sales team or take a look at our website.
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: jjcb, louis.foecy.fr, Marc Veraart, Joi Ito, Marufish, Barbara Willi
