Intrepid Travel
Real Bangkok to Singapore
Real Bangkok to Singapore
From the streets of Bangkok to the waters of Koh Samui, this 15-day trip lets you soak up all the natural beauty and city life highlights of South East Asian gems – Thailand, Maylasia and Singapore. You’ll cycle through rural villages to waterfalls, laze on the palm-fringed beaches of islands and eat your way through Penang. Stay with the locals at a homestay in Phrom Lok and tuck into some delicious home-cooked Thai food. Visit temples, take street food tours and enjoy loads of free time to choose your own adventures. If this trip was a dish, it would taste like Singapore’s chilli crab – full of spice and flavour, with plenty of time by the sea.
Activities
- Bangkok – Wang Lang Local Market
- Bangkok – Wat Pho
- Ko Samui – Half Day Guided Tour
- Phrom Lok – Bike Hire
- Phrom Lok – Home-cooked Dinner
- Phrom Lok – Community Visit and Homestay
- Phrom Lok – Waterfall Visit
- Phrom Lok – Bike Hire
- Penang – Hawker food experience
- Penang – leader led orientation walk
- Ipoh – Temple Visit
- Melaka – Orientation Walk
- Singapore – Orientation Walk
Highlights
- Settle into local life with a homestay in Phrom Lok. Cycle around the countryside, cool off in a waterfall and tuck into some delicious home-cooked meals.
- Take some time out in Ao Nang to recharge, relax and soak up the beachside bliss with loads of free time to go sea kayaking, rock climbing or cocktail hunting.
- Eat on the roadside in Bangkok, Penang and Singapore, with included and optional street food experiences and plenty of free time (not to mention your trusty local leader) to find all the best food stalls.
- Marvel at the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho in Bangkok, and then see the other 1000 images of Buddha throughout the gorgeous complex.
- Spend your downtime in the green Cameron Highlands chilling out and soaking up the scenery or opt for an optional day tour to various local farms and a tea plantation.
Day 1 |
Bangkok, Thailand, is a city where vibrant tradition meets modern dynamism. Known as the "City of Angels," Bangkok is a place of dazzling contrasts, from serene temples and bustling street markets to soaring skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife. One of the city's most awe-inspiring attractions is the Grand Palace, an ornate architectural marvel that has served as the royal residence since 1782. Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand's most sacred sites. Visitors are often captivated by the intricate detail of the buildings, the golden spires, and the mythical guardians that seem to protect the palace from a bygone era. Bangkok's temples are a cornerstone of its cultural landscape, and Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is another must-see. Rising majestically over the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is best viewed at sunset when its spires glow with a mystical light, reflecting off the water. The temple's design, decorated with colorful porcelain pieces and seashells, is a testament to the artistic ingenuity of Thai craftsmanship. Nearby, Wat Pho, home to the massive Reclining Buddha, offers visitors a chance to witness one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand, stretching 46 meters in length. This temple is also renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and visitors can indulge in a relaxing massage on-site. For those looking to dive into the sensory feast of Bangkok’s street life, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-visit. With over 15,000 stalls sprawling across 35 acres, it is one of the largest markets in the world. Here, you can find everything from traditional Thai handicrafts and antiques to trendy fashion and tantalizing street food. Another unique experience awaits at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, souvenirs, and Thai delicacies from boats, giving visitors a glimpse of a traditional way of life that has endured through the ages. Fun fact: Bangkok holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest city name in the world. While we know it as Bangkok, the full ceremonial name is "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit," which translates to "City of Angels, Great City of Immortals, Magnificent City of the Nine Gems." This poetic name beautifully reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and timeless appeal. Whether it’s exploring historical landmarks, indulging in tantalizing cuisine, or experiencing the dynamic energy of its markets, Bangkok offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thai culture and modernity. |
Day 2 |
Bangkok, Thailand, is a city where vibrant tradition meets modern dynamism. Known as the "City of Angels," Bangkok is a place of dazzling contrasts, from serene temples and bustling street markets to soaring skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife. One of the city's most awe-inspiring attractions is the Grand Palace, an ornate architectural marvel that has served as the royal residence since 1782. Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand's most sacred sites. Visitors are often captivated by the intricate detail of the buildings, the golden spires, and the mythical guardians that seem to protect the palace from a bygone era. Bangkok's temples are a cornerstone of its cultural landscape, and Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is another must-see. Rising majestically over the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is best viewed at sunset when its spires glow with a mystical light, reflecting off the water. The temple's design, decorated with colorful porcelain pieces and seashells, is a testament to the artistic ingenuity of Thai craftsmanship. Nearby, Wat Pho, home to the massive Reclining Buddha, offers visitors a chance to witness one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand, stretching 46 meters in length. This temple is also renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and visitors can indulge in a relaxing massage on-site. For those looking to dive into the sensory feast of Bangkok’s street life, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-visit. With over 15,000 stalls sprawling across 35 acres, it is one of the largest markets in the world. Here, you can find everything from traditional Thai handicrafts and antiques to trendy fashion and tantalizing street food. Another unique experience awaits at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, souvenirs, and Thai delicacies from boats, giving visitors a glimpse of a traditional way of life that has endured through the ages. Fun fact: Bangkok holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest city name in the world. While we know it as Bangkok, the full ceremonial name is "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit," which translates to "City of Angels, Great City of Immortals, Magnificent City of the Nine Gems." This poetic name beautifully reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and timeless appeal. Whether it’s exploring historical landmarks, indulging in tantalizing cuisine, or experiencing the dynamic energy of its markets, Bangkok offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thai culture and modernity. |
Day 3 |
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is an island off the coast of Thailand and a popular vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. Famous for its luxury resorts and hotels, lush rainforests, and tropical beaches, Koh Samui is the perfect getaway in Southeast Asia! |
Day 4 |
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is an island off the coast of Thailand and a popular vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. Famous for its luxury resorts and hotels, lush rainforests, and tropical beaches, Koh Samui is the perfect getaway in Southeast Asia! |
Day 5 |
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Day 6 |
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Day 7 |
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Day 8 |
A dynamic island escape, Penang, Malaysia, is chock-full of exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture. Head to the George Town neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the island's best colonial architecture and historical landmarks, including the Penang Town Hall, Fort Cornwallis, and Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower. Just off Beach Street you'll find some of Penang's famously vibrant street art and murals, the perfect place for photos. A visit to Penang won't be complete without stopping by one of the islands many temples, most notably the iconic Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple, whose bright yellow roofs and red lanterns beckon from the wooded hills west of George Town. The island's natural beauty is sure to impress: visit the Penang Botanic Gardens, Penang Butterfly Farm, or Tropical Spice Gardens to delight in vivid and exotic flora. The island's north coast offers spectacular and secluded beaches surrounded by lush tropical forests. Head to Monkey Beach, Batu Ferringhi, or Pantai Keracut to lounge on the warm sand, dip your toes in bright azure water, or watch local monkeys and wild turtles roam the beach. |
Day 9 |
A dynamic island escape, Penang, Malaysia, is chock-full of exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture. Head to the George Town neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the island's best colonial architecture and historical landmarks, including the Penang Town Hall, Fort Cornwallis, and Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower. Just off Beach Street you'll find some of Penang's famously vibrant street art and murals, the perfect place for photos. A visit to Penang won't be complete without stopping by one of the islands many temples, most notably the iconic Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple, whose bright yellow roofs and red lanterns beckon from the wooded hills west of George Town. The island's natural beauty is sure to impress: visit the Penang Botanic Gardens, Penang Butterfly Farm, or Tropical Spice Gardens to delight in vivid and exotic flora. The island's north coast offers spectacular and secluded beaches surrounded by lush tropical forests. Head to Monkey Beach, Batu Ferringhi, or Pantai Keracut to lounge on the warm sand, dip your toes in bright azure water, or watch local monkeys and wild turtles roam the beach. |
Day 10 |
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Day 11 |
Kuala Lumpur may appear to be a modern Asian city of gleaming skyscrapers, but it retains much of its original character and local color. It has plenty of colonial buildings in its center, a vibrant Chinatown with street vendors and night markets, and a bustling Little India.
The real heart of Kuala Lumpur is Merdeka Square, the site of the city's parades and celebrations and home to a 95m (312ft) high flagpole. In colonial days, Malaysia's administrators used the square for cricket matches, but it was also here that Malaysia's independence was declared in 1957. On the eastern side of the square is the moorish Sultan Abdul Samed Building, topped by a 43m (141ft) high clocktower. Kuala Lumpur's magnificent railway station is built in a similar moorish style, with its full quota of minarets, cupolas, towers and arches, and may be construed as a delightful example of British colonial humor. The Petronas Towers building is less decorative but impossible to miss. It's almost half a km (1640ft) high and is one of the tallest structures in the world. The picturesque, striped onion-domed Masjid Jame (Friday mosque) is set in a grove of palm trees overlooking Merdeka Square and is neatly reflected in the new mirror-glass office building nearby. Just south of Jami Masjid are the teeming streets of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown - a crowded, colorful area with the usual mélange of signs, shops activity and noise. At night the central section is closed to traffic and becomes a brightly lit, frantic night market. Budget hotels and hostels can be found in Chinatown and Jalan Pudu Lama. Mid-range hotels are concentrated in Chinatown and on Jalan Bukit Bintang. The night market in Chinatown is the most interesting place to eat in the evening. |
Day 12 |
Kuala Lumpur may appear to be a modern Asian city of gleaming skyscrapers, but it retains much of its original character and local color. It has plenty of colonial buildings in its center, a vibrant Chinatown with street vendors and night markets, and a bustling Little India.
The real heart of Kuala Lumpur is Merdeka Square, the site of the city's parades and celebrations and home to a 95m (312ft) high flagpole. In colonial days, Malaysia's administrators used the square for cricket matches, but it was also here that Malaysia's independence was declared in 1957. On the eastern side of the square is the moorish Sultan Abdul Samed Building, topped by a 43m (141ft) high clocktower. Kuala Lumpur's magnificent railway station is built in a similar moorish style, with its full quota of minarets, cupolas, towers and arches, and may be construed as a delightful example of British colonial humor. The Petronas Towers building is less decorative but impossible to miss. It's almost half a km (1640ft) high and is one of the tallest structures in the world. The picturesque, striped onion-domed Masjid Jame (Friday mosque) is set in a grove of palm trees overlooking Merdeka Square and is neatly reflected in the new mirror-glass office building nearby. Just south of Jami Masjid are the teeming streets of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown - a crowded, colorful area with the usual mélange of signs, shops activity and noise. At night the central section is closed to traffic and becomes a brightly lit, frantic night market. Budget hotels and hostels can be found in Chinatown and Jalan Pudu Lama. Mid-range hotels are concentrated in Chinatown and on Jalan Bukit Bintang. The night market in Chinatown is the most interesting place to eat in the evening. |
Day 13 |
It's hard to imagine that the small, compact city of Malacca was once at the helm of the lucrative Asian spice trade. Its strategic location on the Straits of Malacca generated incalculable wealth for whoever controlled the city, and generations of Portuguese, Dutch and British fought for control. Today this sleepy backwater port still offers enough fine Dutch architecture, Chinese temples and old Malaccan terrace houses to make it one of Malaysia's prime attractions.
Malacca is an interesting blend of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences and is considered Malaysia's most historic city. It was once the most important trading port in the region but is now little more than a sleepy backwater. Ancient-looking junks still sail up the river, imbuing the waterfront with a timeless charm, and the city remains full of intriguing Chinese streets, antique shops, temples and nostalgic reminders of the now-departed European colonial powers. The most imposing relic of the Dutch period in Melaka is the massive pink town hall, Stadthuys, built between 1641 and 1660. It's believed to be the oldest Dutch building in Asia and displays all the characteristic features of Dutch colonial architecture (read incredibly weighty doors and pleasant louvred windows). The building houses government offices and an excellent Ethnographic Museum which highlights aspects of local history and culture. The imposing ruins of St Paul's Church, built by the Portuguese over 400 years ago, stand in a beautiful setting atop St Paul's Hill. It was regularly visited by St Francis Xavier, who was buried here for a short period before being transferred to Goa in India. The church fell into disuse when the Dutch arrived but is still surrounded by old Dutch tombstones. The Brits, with great sensitivity, used the church as a gunpowder store. For those who prefer their religious architecture to be a little more colourful, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple in the old part of the city is the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia. It was founded in 1646 and all of the materials and all of the artisans who built it were imported from China. The old part of Melaka is a fascinating area to wander around, and this is where you'll find many of Melaka's famous antique shops; a stroll along Jalan Hang Jebat will pass the best of them. |
Day 14 |
Singapore is the 5th most visited city in the world, and when you step foot in this modern, culturally rich city you'll see why! Foodies will delight in both the affordable hawker markets and Michelin star dining throughout the city, and shoppers will love ducking into one of the many shopping malls or independent markets for goods. Make sure that you take time to take in the green beauty of the city - Gardens by the Bay and UNESCO World Heritage Singapore Botanic Gardens aren't to be missed! |
Day 15 |
Singapore is the 5th most visited city in the world, and when you step foot in this modern, culturally rich city you'll see why! Foodies will delight in both the affordable hawker markets and Michelin star dining throughout the city, and shoppers will love ducking into one of the many shopping malls or independent markets for goods. Make sure that you take time to take in the green beauty of the city - Gardens by the Bay and UNESCO World Heritage Singapore Botanic Gardens aren't to be missed! |
Singapore
Singapore, officially Republic of Singapore, republic (1995 est. pop. 2,890,000), c.240 sq mi (620 sq km), SE Asia, S of the Malay Peninsula, comprising Singapore Island and about 60 islets. There is no administrative distinction between the country and Singapore city, where the government and port is located. Singapore Island is largely low-lying and has a tropical climate. It is almost entirely urbanized and densely populated; there is a remnant rain forest in the Bukit Timah reserve. Singapore is one of the world’s great commercial centers, and its citizens enjoy one of the highest standards of living in Asia. Its port, at Keppel Harbor, is one of the world’s largest and busiest. The economy is supported primarily by manufacturing, service industries, and trade; shipbuilding is also important. Agriculture plays a minor role, and the country imports most of its food. The population is mainly Chinese; Malays and Indians constitute large minorities. Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity are the major religions. Malay, Chinese, Tamil, and English are the official languages.
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05/18/25 - 06/01/25 |
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07/06/25 - 07/20/25 |
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09/14/25 - 09/28/25 |
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10/19/25 - 11/02/25 |
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11/09/25 - 12/07/25 |
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12/21/25 - 01/04/26 |
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01/04/26 - 01/18/26 |
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02/01/26 - 02/15/26 |
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02/08/26 - 02/22/26 |
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02/22/26 - 03/15/26 |
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03/29/26 - 04/26/26 |
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05/17/26 - 05/31/26 |
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06/07/26 - 06/21/26 |
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06/21/26 - 08/16/26 |
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09/13/26 - 09/27/26 |
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