Recently, I took a two-week cruise and honestly, it was one of those trips where you feel like you’ve seen half the world without ever having to repack your suitcase. Ideal.
We started with a couple of nights in Singapore, which is a destination in its own right. It’s one of those places that just works—spotless, easy to get around, and full of things to do. Whether you’re wandering through Gardens by the Bay, eating your way through a hawker market or just taking in the skyline, it’s a great place to kick things off.
While we were there, we were lucky enough to stay at Raffles Hotel Singapore—a truly iconic property and a wonderful piece of history to experience. It’s one of those places that just feels special the moment you walk in, and definitely adds something extra to the start of the trip.
Then it was time to set sail. No airport queues, no transfers—just unpack once and let the itinerary come to you.
First stop was Kuala Lumpur. A real mix of old and new, with the Petronas Towers towering over everything while markets and temples sit just around the corner. It’s busy, a bit chaotic in places, but that’s part of the charm.
Next up was Penang, which has a completely different feel. George Town is full of character—street art, colonial buildings, and some of the best food you’ll find anywhere. If you leave Penang hungry, you’ve done it wrong.
Then onto Phuket, where things slow down slightly. Beaches, boat trips, and that laid-back Thai atmosphere. Whether you’re out exploring islands or just enjoying the sunshine, it’s an easy place to relax for the day.
Sri Lanka was next, starting with Hambantota. This stop turned out to be a real highlight, as we headed out on safari to Udawalawe National Park. It was incredible—elephants, monkeys, crocodiles and plenty of other wildlife, all roaming freely in their natural habitat. At times they were so close to us it almost didn’t feel real. Definitely one of those experiences you don’t forget.
We then visited Colombo, which is a proper contrast. Busy, vibrant, and full of energy. There’s loads to see, from temples to markets, and it gives you a real feel for local life.
India was the final stretch of the cruise, and every stop brought something completely different.
Cochin was full of history, with its Chinese fishing nets and colonial influences. It’s one of those places where you just wander and take it all in.
Goa brought a more relaxed vibe—beaches, colourful streets, and a slightly different feel to the rest of India thanks to its Portuguese heritage.
And then there’s Mumbai. Busy doesn’t even begin to cover it. It’s loud, fast-paced, and full-on—but in the best way. From the Gateway of India to the sheer energy of the city, it’s one of those places that leaves an impression whether you’re ready for it or not.
What really stood out on this cruise was how different every single stop felt. One day you’re in a modern city, the next you’re exploring temples, then relaxing on a beach, and then straight into the hustle of somewhere completely new.
The range of shore excursions was brilliant too. Whether you wanted guided tours, cultural experiences, wildlife, or just a chilled beach day, there was always plenty of choice.
It’s one of those trips where you come back feeling like you’ve experienced so much, but without any of the usual travel stress.
Unpack once… and let the world come to you.
