Singapore & Malaysia

After settling into your hotel, take in the city’s first impressions—its futuristic skyline, well-manicured gardens, and diverse neighborhoods. Singapore may be small, but its rich heritage and modern appeal make it a fascinating destination to explore.

In the evening, meet your Women’s Travel Club host and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception. Enjoy a delightful dinner together, setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead. Tea and coffee will be served as you get to know your travel companions and prepare for the adventures to come.

Accommodations: Paradox Singapore Merchant Court (Dinner)

Accommodations: Paradox Singapore Merchant Court (Breakfast)

Start the day with a visit to Geylang Serai Market, the heart of Singapore’s Malay community. Here, you can mingle with locals at the wet market and indulge in traditional Singaporean street foods like Roti Prata, Thosai, and Teh Tarik. Afterward, stroll through the colorful Joo Chiat and Katong neighborhoods, known for their charming pastel-hued pre-war shop houses. If you’re lucky, you might catch the masterful making of popiah, a fresh spring roll wrapped in delicate paper-thin dough.

In the evening, hop aboard a bumboat for a scenic ride along the Singapore River. Enjoy views of beautifully restored shop houses, modern skyscrapers, colonial buildings, and the Merlion statue. Continue to Gardens by the Bay for a magical light and sound show at the Super Tree Grove. Finally, head to Marina Bay Sands and take in panoramic views from the Skypark Observation Deck, perched 200 meters above the city. The bird’s-eye view of Singapore’s skyline is a stunning way to end the day.

Accommodations: Paradox Singapore Merchant Court (Breakfast)

For a cultural excursion, visit the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions blending art and technology. Those interested in nature may want to take a trip to Sentosa Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches, visit Universal Studios Singapore, or explore the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world.

Food lovers can embark on a culinary adventure at one of Singapore’s famous hawker centers, such as Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell Food Centre, where you can savor authentic dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, and Chili Crab. Alternatively, explore Kampong Glam, a historic Malay-Arab quarter known for its vibrant street art, hip cafes, and the majestic Sultan Mosque.

No matter your interests, Singapore offers something for everyone to enjoy on this leisurely day.

Accommodations: Paradox Singapore Merchant Court (Breakfast)

Accommodations: Casa del Rio (Breakfast and Lunch)

In the morning, you’ll begin your exploration of Kuala Lumpur with a visit to Independent Square, a significant historical site. Continue to the majestic 19th-century Sultan Abdul Samad Building, a stunning example of Moorish architecture. Your final stop for the day is at the Petronas Twin Towers. From the Sky Bridge, perched between the two soaring 88-story towers, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.

The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore Kuala Lumpur on your own. You can dive deeper into the city’s landmarks, indulge in its world-renowned street food, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere as you wander through bustling markets, parks, or shopping districts.

Accommodations: Melia Kuala Lumpur (Breakfast)

Begin the day with a visit to the Selangor Pewter Factory, where you’ll see skilled artisans crafting intricate pewter goods, a Malaysian specialty. Next, head to Batu Caves, a towering limestone hill with a series of cave temples, home to one of the most important Hindu shrines in Malaysia. Climb the 272 colorful steps to explore the vast cave interiors and take in the stunning surroundings.

Leaving the city behind, travel toward the Cameron Highlands, a cool, verdant region known for its tea plantations and fresh produce. En route, stop for a quick photo opportunity at the picturesque Lata Iskandar Waterfall, a cascading natural beauty nestled in the rainforest. Upon arriving in Tanah Rata, enjoy a delightful afternoon tea featuring scones with cream and locally made jam (at your own expense), a tradition in this British-influenced highland retreat.

Continue to a local strawberry farm, where you’ll learn about the region’s thriving strawberry-growing industry and perhaps even sample some freshly picked berries. Finally,

Accommodations: Strawberry Park Resort (Breakfast and Dinner)

This morning, journey toward Penang with a stop in the royal town of Kuala Kangsar to admire the magnificent Ubudiah Mosque. With its gleaming golden dome and white marble structure, it is regarded as one of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques. Next, visit the Penang Batik Handicraft Center to see artisans creating intricate batik designs. Continue to a traditional keris workshop, where you’ll learn about the spiritual significance of these ornately crafted daggers, believed to possess mystical powers.

Cross the impressive bridge linking the mainland to Penang and check into your hotel. This afternoon, visit Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complexes. Marvel at its 10,000 Buddha statues, explore the temple grounds, and visit the Pond of Longevity, where hundreds of tortoises reside. The highlight is the towering Kuan Yin Pavilion, standing approximately 80 meters tall.

End the day with a scenic ride up Penang Hill on the Swiss funicular railway. As you ascend, take in spectacular views of Penang Island and the Malaysian mainland, passing lush rainforests and hill farms before reaching the summit.

Accommodations: Shangri La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Breakfast)

Start the day with a photo stop at Fort Cornwallis, the site where Captain Francis Light first landed in 1786 to establish Penang as a British colony. Then, visit a local joss stick maker’s home, where a ‘Local Specialist’ will demonstrate the delicate art of crafting handmade incense sticks, a tradition that is slowly fading.

Next, explore the beautifully carved Chinese clan house of Khoo Kongsi, a grand ancestral hall where generations of Chinese families of the same surname come together to honor their heritage. Afterward, hop onto a traditional trishaw for a relaxed ride through Georgetown’s charming streets, passing colonial-era buildings and the city’s famous street art.

The afternoon is free for you to explore at leisure—perhaps visit more of Georgetown’s heritage sites, shop for unique souvenirs, or indulge in the city’s renowned street food scene.

Accommodations: Shangri La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Breakfast)

With no scheduled activities today, take the opportunity to unwind by the beach, explore Penang’s local markets, or indulge in a spa treatment. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a visit to Penang National Park, a scenic boat ride, or sampling more of the island’s famous street food.

As the sun sets, reunite with your travel companions for a memorable Farewell Dinner. Share stories, reflect on the highlights of your trip, and enjoy a final taste of Malaysia’s rich culinary flavors in a warm and celebratory setting.

Accommodations: Shangri La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Breakfast and Dinner)