Far East

Steeped in tradition, customs and superstition, Asia and the Orient unfolds before you. Soaring skyscrapers and serene paddy fields present a collage of contrasting cultures. Life in the many picturesque rural villages continues unchanged as it has done for centuries.

While in stark contrast you will marvel at the sheer pace and sense of vitality abundantly evident in the region`s many ultra modern cities. Everyone seems to be on the move - working, eating, buying and selling. These are the fast-growing cities of the "Tiger" economy - Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila and Kuala Lumpur and fast-emerging countries like Vietnam.

When travelling to this part of the world, it is difficult not to find yourself totally immersed in the experience – these cities demand it. Street vendors bombard your senses with rich aromas as bicycles, rickshaws and tuk tuks whiz by. An eclectic mix of people, from backpackers to holiday-makers and locals is evident everywhere. Bright street signs create a collage of colour. And superstition, custom and vibrant festivals add an air of great mystery and energy.

You are certain to marvel at the architecture and the sense of innovation but also the respect for tradition and craftsmanship. The region, thanks to its warm climate, attracts Europeans wishing to escape winter as well as Chinese and Japanese tourists who are experiencing cruising for the first time. Australian passengers also frequent the area, thanks to its proximity to home when compared with the other main affordable cruise areas of the world.

Thailand has for a long time been a favourite destination for cruising and land based holidays and many people choose Bangkok, Koh Samui or Phuket as a Cruise and Stay option.

Shore excursions sometimes require rather long road journeys, especially when visiting Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok or Tokyo. A cruise in the Far East also provides magnificent opportunities to those seeking to view the enormous development that has taken place in such cities as Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City and Yokohama.

It has been suggested that the 2008 Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games were probably the last to be seen on a grand scale. All cruise itineraries visiting Tianjin have shore excursions arranged to view the Bird’s Nest Stadium and its surrounding sights.

Visa procurement, along with expensive accommodation and air fares make touring the region very difficult for most people. A cruise, however, offers exceptional value for money as well as an opportunity to see many countries and their fascinating cultures. With a cruise there is no need to change accommodation or worry about costly, time consuming, visa formalities.

Cruises in Far East