Around the world 2024

BANGKOK, THAILAND 1 OVERNIGHT | 18 -19 APRIL 2024 Bangkok has fabulous streets in which to get lost – and to eat. As you explore, notice what is missing as well as what’s there, for you’ll find a distinct absence of ancient relics and European colonial influence. At the Grand Palace you may detect an occasional Western flourish, but this royal compound undeniably salutes the craftsmanship and creativity of Thailand. Staring at the almost 5 metre foot of a massive gold Buddha in the young city’s oldest temple, you’ll note that it dates only to the 18th century. To explore ancient history, visit Bangkok’s excellent museums or travel north to the ruins of Ayutthaya, the historic capital of Siam. SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE 1 OVERNIGHT | 22-23 APRIL 2024 Discover the delightful diversity of Singapore, from charming Chinatown to colourful Little India to Arab Street and the massive Sultan Mosque. Learn about the many Asian cultures that have influenced Singapore at The Asian Civilisations Museum, which houses one of the most comprehensive pan-Asian collections in the region. Gaze at 20,000 beautiful blooms in the National Orchid Garden and observe nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat on the unique night safari. For a historical perspective, visit the Kranji War Memorial and the Changi Chapel and Museum, dedicated to those who lost their lives during World War II. YANGON, MYANMAR 2 OVERNIGHTS | 28 -30 APRIL 2024 Formerly known as Rangoon, Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and yet retains an old-school feel that is rare for a city of millions. You’ll find more quaint colonial buildings than slick skyscrapers, and its most famous structure – the heavenly Shwedagon Pagoda – is about 2,600 years old. Beyond that golden icon, the gilded Sule and Botataung pagodas are also worth visiting. To get an authentic feel for the entire city, the Yangon Circular Railway makes a three-hour loop around town and gives you the chance to rub elbows – literally – with the locals. When you need to refuel, try a bowl of mohinga, a delicious fish soup with rice noodles. MUMBAI, INDIA 1 OVERNIGHT | 7- 8 MAY 2024 India’s largest city, Mumbai is home to 20 million people, seemingly all on the go. A good place to start your visit is the Gateway of India, an arch monument built for England’s King George and Queen Mary in 1924 that has become an iconic symbol of the city. After that, your senses may kick into overdrive – from the bright flowers and fragrant incense used in daily Hindu rituals to the constant thrum of traffic and rush of pedestrians on busy streets. But there’s always somewhere to slow down, like the seaside promenade of Marine Drive or even an air-conditioned movie theatre, where you can take in a locally produced Bollywood production. DUBAI, UAE 1 OVERNIGHT | 12-13 MAY 2024 As Dubai has carved its place in the vast desert as a glittering tribute to all that money can buy, you may find it hard to believe that the city’s skyline had only a few modest high-rises as recently as the 1990s. After learning about the monumental journey from fishing village to international symbol of opulence at the Dubai Museum, discover for yourself what all the fuss is about in this city of superlatives. Ride the world’s longest elevator to the top of the world’s tallest building, shop in the world’s largest mall, ski the world’s first indoor black-diamond run or lounge on a white sand beach on the world’s largest artificial island. Overnight DE S T I NAT ION H IGHL IGHT S Ayutthaya, available from Bangkok Jerusalem 34 Call +44 345 505 1920 Visit OceaniaCruises.com or Contact Your Travel Advisor