Explore Malaysia & Singapore aboard the legendary E&O

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Take a flight on Asia’s largest observation wheel

For a dining experience with a difference, take your seat in one of the 28 'capsules' on Asia's largest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer. Enjoy dishes such as miso-glazed black cod and crunchy hazelnut feuilletine as you reach heights of 165 metres, taking in incredible waterfront views over Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline. Look out for iconic sights such as Gardens by the Bay as the city's lights gradually illuminate.

Swim with butterfly fish in Langkawi

The uninhabited island of Pulau Payar is a mecca for marine life and ideal if you are keen to explore Langkawi’s undersea action. Head for a snorkelling session in the Marine Park, a spectacular natural reserve home to butterfly fish, damselfish, groupers, parrot fish and angel fish, who flit among their vibrant underwater city of corals. Afterwards, enjoy a luxury picnic on a white sand beach and stroll to the nearby sandbar for cocktails and barbecue fare.

Catch a Teochew puppet show

The island of Penang is known as Malaysia's cultural melting pot and the colourful capital of Georgetown is its beating heart. In the Old Quarter is the Teochew Puppet & Opera House. This charming museum houses a family collection of puppets, costumes and traditional instruments and is dedicated to preserving this traditional art form. Catch one of the performances here – you can even try your hand at operating the puppets yourself.

Discover a sea of orchids

Singapore’s tropical climate isn’t a natural fit for orchids, yet the National Orchid Garden, nestled in the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens, boasts a sprawling 60,000-strong display. Their cool house was specifically designed to trick the flowers into believing they are 1,000 metres above sea level, thanks to a clever climate-control system. With a guide, you can explore the gardens and see Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim.

Enjoy an authentic Peranakan meal

Loosely defined as being of Southern Chinese heritage, there are still vibrant signs of Peranakan heritage throughout modern Singapore. Delve deeper into its culture at The Intan, a house-come-museum where founder Alvin Yapp gives tours about the fascinating history that underpins Peranakan traditions and showcases his collection of items. Afterwards, dine on Peranakan dishes such as aromatic stews of lemongrass and blue ginger and spiced pineapple tarts, inspired by Yapp’s mother's culinary prowess.

Suggested itinerary

Three nights aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express form the centrepiece of this exceptional experience. You'll enjoy a night at Raffles Hotel Singapore before embarking on the Essence of Malaysia journey, followed by two nights there on your return.

The iconic Raffles Hotel needs little introduction: one of the world's most desirable addresses, birthplace of the Singapore Sling, replete with five restaurants, a roof-top swimming pool, a spa, and butler service. 

Travel style

Cherrywood panelling, intricate marquetry, and Thai silks create a refined sanctuary onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, with a dining car serving everything from elegant afternoon teas to sumptuous evening meals. Pass city skylines and lush landscapes as you journey through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang on the handsome green and cream carriages, stopping off at the Bar Car for a cocktail. A boat trip to Langkawi’s Pulau Payar Marine Park allows you to see this vast nature reserve in all its glory.