A Celebrity Cruise to Indo-China
Our adventure began when my wife and I booked a cruise on the Celebrity Century, marking our first trip to Indo-China. Having extensively traveled across Europe, the USA, and Australia, and embarked on nine cruises before, we were eager to explore a new region. Our journey commenced on 5 February 2015 as we left the UK for Singapore.
Arrival in Singapore
We flew from London Heathrow to Singapore’s Changi Airport, enduring a 13-hour flight. Upon arrival, we took a taxi to the Grand Park Hotel, City Hall, a centrally located hotel recommended by Trail Finders. The journey took about 30 minutes in peak commuter traffic, costing us S$28. The hotel's proximity to City Hall MRT station and numerous shopping malls made it an excellent choice for our stay.
With three days to explore before embarking on our cruise, we took full advantage of being in Singapore during the Chinese New Year celebrations. The city's vibrant atmosphere, stunning decorations, and lively festivities added an extra layer of excitement to our visit.
Embarkation on the Celebrity Century
On Sunday, 8 February 2015, we took a taxi to Marina Bay Cruise Terminal, where embarkation was a seamless experience. Within 20 minutes, we had checked in, provided our credit card details, taken our security photos, and enjoyed a refreshing welcome drink before stepping aboard the ship.
Our stateroom, No. 9171, was a Concierge Balcony room on Deck 9, our home for the next 14 nights. We were warmly welcomed by our stateroom attendant, Novie, and his assistant, whose excellent service made our stay comfortable. Our luggage arrived promptly, and we were greeted with chilled champagne, a fruit platter, and an order form for afternoon canapés. The room felt spacious, offering ample storage, and our veranda, equipped with a table and chairs, became our favorite spot for afternoon reading.
Life Aboard the Celebrity Century
Despite having cruised on the Century before, we found ourselves occasionally mixing up Port and Starboard. The ship, while well-maintained for its age, was showing signs of wear. Deck 11 featured the pool deck with two smaller cold pools, four whirlpool tubs, and lively pool bars. The buffet offered an ever-changing variety of food, with hot dishes served at appropriate temperatures and an excellent selection of salads and cold foods.
Breakfast and lunch were often enjoyed at the buffet, while dinner was in the main dining room, where we opted for Select Dining. This allowed us to choose our mealtimes, which was ideal given our daily excursions. Sharing tables at dinner introduced us to a variety of fellow travelers. The dinner menu featured diverse options, including staples like French onion soup and New York-style steaks. We dined once at Murano, the ship’s specialty restaurant, experiencing fine dining with impeccable service, though the additional cost ($50 or $89, depending on the menu) may not be for everyone.
Evening entertainment in the Celebrity Theatre was a highlight, with production performances by the onboard entertainers. While most acts were enjoyable, we found a few, such as an American comedian and a magician, to be lackluster. During sea days, the ship provided numerous activities, including informative talks about upcoming ports and shore excursions.
Shore Excursions
We made full use of Celebrity’s shore excursions, determined to absorb as much culture and history as possible. Each excursion was well-organized and delivered as promised. When meals were included, they were hosted in high-quality hotels and exceeded expectations. Our guides were knowledgeable, fluent in English, and eager to share insights into their countries. Before selecting excursions, we researched thoroughly, using sources like Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor to make informed choices.
Debarkation and Final Thoughts
Debarkation was as smooth as embarkation. With our luggage collected the night before, we chose a 9:00 am departure, allowing us to make the most of our extended stay in Singapore. The terminal’s taxi queue moved efficiently, and we soon found ourselves en route to Raffles Hotel for the next phase of our adventure.
Our Indo-China cruise was an enriching experience, immersing us in a region rich in culture and history. The journey through multiple time zones left us battling jet lag for a week after our return home, but it was well worth it.
The only downside to the trip was the ongoing maintenance on Deck 6, where constant painting and the poor condition of sun loungers detracted from the experience. However, given that the Celebrity Century was soon to be retired from the fleet and repurposed as a casino cruiser in Hong Kong, some wear and tear were to be expected.
Overall, this cruise was a fantastic voyage filled with unforgettable moments, and we would highly recommend it to those seeking a unique and culturally immersive travel experience.
Phuket: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Coastal Beauty
The sun rises over the Andaman Sea as our ship gently anchors off Patong Beach. It’s 7:00 AM, and the adventure begins. Since we're anchored offshore, we take a tender to reach the island. Phuket, Thailand’s largest island—stretching 30 miles long and 12 miles wide—has transformed into one of the country's most fashionable beach destinations. But beyond the beaches lies a rich tapestry of history and culture waiting to be explored.
A Walk Through History
Phuket has long been a hub for trade, attracting Indian, Malay, Arab, and European merchants who sought local tin and rubber. Centuries ago, Hokkien Chinese immigrants arrived, drawn by opportunities in tin mining, and their architectural influence remains evident in the charming shophouses and row houses that shape Phuket Town’s streets.
Big Buddha: A Towering Symbol of Peace
Our day begins with a tour of Phuket’s landmarks, joining seven fellow travelers in a minibus that winds its way through the back roads of Patong. The first stop is the iconic Big Buddha Temple, perched atop Nark Kerd Mountain. As we ascend, the panoramic views unfold—a breathtaking sweep of the coastline.
Standing at 45 meters (147 feet), this colossal marble Buddha watches over the island, a serene guardian visible from miles away. Construction began in 2004 and continues through donations, with visitors invited to contribute by purchasing marble tiles to inscribe their names on. At the temple base, a small hall showcases the project’s history, while monks offer blessings for those making merit. The tranquility of the place, despite ongoing construction, is humbling.
Encounters with Elephants
Next, we make our way to an elephant station, where a two-year-old calf and a full-grown working elephant greet us. It’s a stark reminder of how these majestic creatures have long been part of Thailand’s labor force, consuming up to 200 kilos of vegetation daily.
Descending the mountain, the landscape changes. Dense rubber trees, banana groves, and bamboo line the roadside. We pass humble homes, little more than tin-roofed sheds, before stopping at a cashew factory. Here, we witness the labor-intensive process of hand-shelling cashews—a task that makes us appreciate every nut we’ve ever eaten. The end result? A variety of flavored cashews, ready for tasting.
Chalong Temple: Phuket’s Spiritual Heart
One of Phuket’s most revered temples, Wat Chalong, is next on our itinerary. Despite the crowds, the sense of spirituality remains palpable. The temple's main attraction is a 60-meter-tall Chedi, believed to house a sacred bone splinter of the Buddha. Intricate murals depicting his life line the walls, and from the top, we spot the distant Big Buddha—a striking reminder of our earlier visit.
Commercial Pit Stops
A quick visit to a pearl shop follows. While the display of pearls and the cultivation process intrigue some, the stop feels like a commercial detour rather than an enriching experience.
More captivating is the Sam San Shrine, a Chinese temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. Built in 1853, it remains a sacred site where sailors seek blessings before embarking on their voyages.
A Stroll Through Old Phuket Town
Returning to Patong, we take a walk through the historic streets of Old Phuket Town. Along Thalang Road, once the island’s commercial heart, we marvel at Sino-Portuguese shophouses—elegant buildings blending Chinese and European colonial styles. Soi Romanee, once a red-light district, is now a charming street lined with colorful heritage buildings. Further along, we pass the Nguan Choon Tong Chinese Herbal Medicine shop, and a short detour leads us to the Phuket Thaihua Museum, housed in a 1911 Chinese-language school.
One of the grandest buildings in town is the Blue Elephant Governor’s Mansion, now a prestigious Thai restaurant and cooking school.
Penang: A Feast for the Senses in Malaysia’s Pearl of the Orient
Imagine stepping onto an island where the past whispers from colonial facades, the scent of sizzling street food tempts at every turn, and the hum of a multicultural city blends with the rhythmic waves of the Malacca Strait. Welcome to Penang, a 111-square-mile wonder where history, culture, and cuisine intertwine in a dazzling tapestry.
A Melting Pot of History and Culture
Penang’s name derives from the Malay word pinang, referring to the betel nut tree, but it’s not just flora that has shaped this island’s identity. Positioned at the northern entrance of the Malacca Strait, Penang was once a crucial stop for traders from China, India, Arabia, and Europe. In 1786, British Captain Francis Light orchestrated a land deal with the Sultan of Kedah, securing the island for the British East India Company. Legend has it that Light fired a cannon filled with silver coins into the jungle to encourage workers to clear the land—talk about explosive incentives!
Over time, Penang became Britain’s first Southeast Asian stronghold, its wealth growing from trade in tin, rubber, and even opium. Today, the island thrives as a bustling hub where ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Indians coexist, their traditions merging into a vibrant Peranakan culture—a unique blend of Chinese and Malay influences that is especially evident in the local cuisine and architecture.
George Town: A Walk Through Time
If Penang is the soul of Malaysia, George Town is its beating heart. This UNESCO-listed treasure trove of colonial-era buildings, temples, and shophouses is best explored on foot—just be ready for some sidewalk surprises, from uneven steps to tantalizing food carts.
Start at Fort Cornwallis, where history buffs can wander the remains of Light’s old stronghold. Stroll down Lebuh Light and Lebuh Farquhar to admire stately colonial mansions before meandering toward the Street of Harmony, where a mosque, Hindu temple, Chinese temple, and church stand side by side—a rare testament to Penang’s religious diversity.
Kuala Lumpur: Where Tradition Meets Towering Ambition
Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it’s affectionately called, has transformed dramatically over the past quarter-century. Once a relatively easygoing city with a modest skyline, it has now risen to become a shining beacon of Southeast Asian progress. A dynamic metropolis where glass-and-steel skyscrapers pierce the clouds while colonial-era architecture whispers stories of the past, KL is a city that blends heritage with ambition.
A Skyline that Touches the Stars
The Petronas Twin Towers are, without a doubt, KL’s most famous landmark. Once the tallest buildings in the world, these shimmering structures remain among Asia’s most recognizable. Whether you admire them from the ground or take in the breathtaking view from the observation deck on the 86th floor, they’re a must-see. The towers even found Hollywood fame in the 1999 movie Entrapment, starring Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones. But the city's skyline offers more than just the Petronas Towers—Menara Kuala Lumpur, standing at 905 feet, provides a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck and offers a unique cultural village experience below.
A City with a Rich Past
KL's origins trace back to the 1850s as a humble tin-mining outpost, and its name—meaning "muddy estuary" in Malay—hints at its early days. By the 1870s, British colonial influence began shaping the city, leaving behind grand structures like the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Royal Selangor Club in the Colonial District. Merdeka Square remains a symbol of Malaysia’s independence, marked by a towering flagpole where the Malaysian flag was first hoisted in 1957.
A Cultural Tapestry
KL is a melting pot of cultures, where Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities contribute to its vibrant energy. The city's mosques, temples, and churches stand side by side, embodying Malaysia’s diversity. The Jamek Mosque, one of KL’s oldest, showcases beautiful Moorish architecture, while the iconic Blue Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia, stuns visitors with its intricate blue-and-silver dome.
For a taste of local life, Chinatown's Petaling Street is an atmospheric maze of market stalls, where bargaining is an art form. Meanwhile, the Central Market offers unique souvenirs, from traditional batik fabrics to intricate wood carvings, all housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco building.
Shopping & Dining: A Feast for the Senses
Kuala Lumpur is a shopper’s paradise, rivaling Singapore and Hong Kong—but with prices that are much easier on the wallet. From luxury brands at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to budget-friendly fashion at Sungei Wang Plaza, the options are endless.
Food lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice. Whether it’s savoring banana leaf curry in Little India, indulging in dim sum at a Chinese tea house, or feasting on char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) at Jalan Alor’s bustling night market, every meal is an adventure.
Best Ways to Explore KL
If you’re arriving by cruise, your journey starts at Port Klang, about an hour’s drive from the city. Taxis and pre-arranged car services are the best ways to get into town, as public transportation from the port is limited.
Once in KL, the city’s public transit system—including the LRT, MRT, and monorail—makes it easy to navigate. However, if you’re short on time, a guided tour can ensure you see all the highlights without the hassle of traffic and navigation.
Myanmar: A Journey Through Time and Culture
As Myanmar gradually opened its doors to the world after decades of military rule, it quickly became a must-visit destination for travelers eager to experience its untouched charm. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by its colonial history, vibrant Buddhist culture, and warm hospitality. Our journey, though brief, was packed with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable experiences.
Arrival in Yangon & First Impressions
Docking at Thilawa Port, we quickly realized that this isolated port would require a bit of a journey to reach Yangon’s heart. Taxis were readily available, and soon, we were weaving through the town of Thanylin, where roadside shops and humble homes provided an authentic glimpse into everyday life.
On our first evening, we visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, the crown jewel of Myanmar's religious sites. As the sun set, the golden stupa, adorned with 11 tons of gold and over 4,500 diamonds, radiated an ethereal glow. Pilgrims and locals gathered in prayer, creating an atmosphere of reverence and serenity. We entered through the east stairway, bustling with vendors and offering the best views of the main stupa. The history of this sacred site dates back to 600 BC, when two merchants enshrined relics of Gautama Buddha. Over centuries, the pagoda was expanded and adorned by various rulers, each adding to its grandeur. Visiting at night was a mesmerizing experience, with a mystical ambiance that simply cannot be replicated in the daytime.
A Full Day Exploring Yangon
An early start at 6:00 AM ensured a packed itinerary, retracing our previous night’s journey into the city. Our first stop was the Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, home to a massive reclining Buddha stretching 66 meters in length. The sheer scale and intricate detailing of the statue were breathtaking.
Next, we visited the National Museum, where artifacts from Myanmar’s last king, including his impressive 26-foot-high Lion Throne, were on display. Though the exhibits were fascinating, the museum's dim lighting and lack of detailed descriptions left us wishing for more context.
A mid-morning break led us to Mahabandoola Park, a refreshing stop for a cool drink by the lakeside. Here, we admired the Karaweik Royal Barge, an iconic golden boat-shaped structure that beautifully reflects in the lake’s waters.
Wandering through the city's colonial core, we were struck by the architectural remnants of British rule. Yangon boasts the largest collection of colonial buildings in Southeast Asia. Some, like the High Court, City Hall, and Saint Mary’s Cathedral, stood in pristine condition, while others, such as the Secretariat Building, remained abandoned yet full of history.
For lunch, we dined at the Shangri-La Hotel (formerly the Travellers Hotel), indulging in classic Burmese dishes. One standout was Mohinga, a fish-based soup with rice vermicelli, fragrant with lemongrass and ginger—a staple breakfast dish for locals. Another highlight was Ngapi, a fermented fish paste, which was certainly an acquired taste!
Post-lunch, we ventured into the bustling Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market). With over 2,000 stalls, it was a paradise for shoppers seeking lacquerware, jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts. Two hours barely scratched the surface, but it was enough to grab some souvenirs.
Ending our day, we revisited the Shwedagon Pagoda, this time in daylight. While still magnificent, it lacked the mysterious allure of the previous night. Nevertheless, it was a fitting way to conclude our Yangon exploration before heading back to the ship for a well-earned rest.
Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah.
The island emerges from the turquoise embrace of the Andaman Sea like a forgotten paradise, where nature and myth intertwine. This archipelago of 99 islands—104 at low tide—sits 30 kilometers off the Malaysian mainland, a world apart yet effortlessly reachable.
The island's beaches, soft as powdered sugar, stretch endlessly, kissed by waves that shimmer under the tropical sun. Pantai Cenang, the liveliest, hums with beachside cafés and laughter, while Tanjung Rhu, more secluded, offers solitude where the only footprints in the sand might be your own. But Langkawi’s beauty isn’t just skin deep.
Venture inland, and the island reveals its untamed heart. Ancient rainforests, some older than the Amazon, cradle exotic wildlife—dusky leaf monkeys peering through emerald canopies, hornbills swooping in flashes of black and gold. The mighty peak of Gunung Mat Cincang, Langkawi’s second-highest mountain, rises dramatically, offering breathtaking views from the Sky Bridge, a feat of engineering that seems to defy gravity itself.
Legends whisper through the island’s history, none more famous than that of Mahsuri, the wrongly accused maiden whose curse was said to last for seven generations. Today, her tomb remains a place of quiet reverence, a reminder of Langkawi’s storied past.
Yet, Langkawi is not bound by the past alone. It embraces modern pleasures too—luxurious resorts hidden in jungle-cloaked coves, night markets bursting with flavors of grilled seafood and spicy laksa, and the undeniable allure of duty-free shopping, where bottles of fine whiskey and perfumes become irresistible treasures.
By sunset, the island transforms again. The sky ignites in hues of amber and crimson, reflecting over the calm waters. Locals and travelers alike gather by the shore, drinks in hand, watching as another perfect day in Langkawi fades into a starlit promise of adventure yet to come.
