Bangkok to Singapore

Arrive into Surat Thani and catch a songthaew to Khao Sok. Set amid hectares of thick jungle, waterfalls, limestone cliffs and topped off with an island-studded lake, Khao Sok is a nature lover's paradise. Travel through pristine jungle, rubber and oil plantations before boarding a long tail boat for a ride across stunning Rajjaprapa Lake to its island set amongst limestone karst hills surrounding its beautiful green lake. Trek to the islands cave and its eerie stalactites. Lunch in a local raft-house before free time to relax, swim or kayak. The water is clear and keep an eye out for hornbills, langurs, macaques or gibbons. During free time explore superb walking trails, rivers and waterfalls. In the rainy season there's an option to take to the water in inner tubes and float down the river through the rainforest.

Transfer by private minibus to our village homestay. Enjoy a walk with our homestay host around the village, try out rubber tapping and enjoy the great food and hospitality of the region. There is also an opportunity to assist with the preparation of tonight's meal and learn some of the secrets of southern Thai cooking. Please be aware that this is a Muslim region so conservative dress standards are appreciated. Our homestay is located in a small friendly village, in basic multishare rooms with mattresses and mosquito nets provided. Bathroom facilities are shared.

Make the short journey by private minibus to the stunning environs of Krabi and our base at Ao Nang. Famous for stunning limestone karst scenery of the headland, Krabi is perfect for both relaxing on the beach or getting active. For those actively inclined consider sea kayaking, or some world class rock climbing. In the the evening look out for a beautiful sunset and consider dining on seafood in a beachside restaurant, followed by a drink in one of the many clubs and bars along on the beach. Take a day trip by boat to explore Phi Phi Island. Famous both for its spectacular limestone cliffs and beaches, spend the day relaxing on the beach and try some snorkelling.

A long travel day by private minibus sees us saying goodbye to Thailand and hello to the cultural melting pot of Malaysia. Penang Island was the first destination of the colonial British in 1786. They invited Chinese, as well as others from all over Asia, to live on this island in the tropics. Today, this exotic blend of cultures still exists and the World Heritage site of Georgetown contains a fascinating blend of religious places of worship. Take a half day guided city tour of Georgetown visiting sites such as; Fort Cornwallis, Clan Jetty, Thai and Burmese Temples and Kek Lok Si Temple.

Take a local bus to Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur, the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia, is affectionately known as KL and you'll almost always hear locals refer to it by its acronym. Communities of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malay people mingle peacefully, allowing travellers to get the best of all three worlds. Take a half-day tour and experience the fascinating cultural mix that gives it such a uniquely cosmopolitan feel. Visit some of the city's most impressive architecture such as the National Monument, National Mosque, Istana Negara (National Palace), Batu Caves and Royal Selangor Pewter.

Transfer by local bus to the old port town of Melaka. Once the most important trading port of Malaysia, Melaka attracted Chinese, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese and British traders, all seeking wealth or an opportunity to control the Straits of Malacca, a vital trading route between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Today, Melaka's wealth of historical sites remind visitors of times gone by and its multicultural past is revealed in its distinctive cuisine. Take a quaint trishaw tour along the narrow winding streets to get a taste of old Melaka and learn about the ancient spice trade. Take in sites such as Harmony Street, a mosque, Chinese Buddhist Temples and a traditional Muslim house-museum.