Holiday Pearls Of Arabia & Asia

On the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates, this exotic destination boasts world-renowned structures, enviably glamorous resorts and pioneering industry.

Sir Bani Yas Island is part of the Al Gharbia region of the United Arab Emirates. It's dominated by the Arabian Wildlife Park, with its roaming giraffes, cheetahs and gazelles. Multiple archaeological sites across the island include the ruins of an ancient Christian monastery. Salt dome hills define the island’s desert interior. The coast features beaches, sea kayak routes and a shipwreck.

As one of the wealthiest and most populous regions in Asia, Mumbai (known as Bombay until 1995) has been an inspiring tourist hotspot for years – and with its jaw-dropping architecture, culture and food, it’s easy to see why.

Cultural Cochin - ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ - is surrounded by historical towns and considered the regional centre for the arts.

Sabang is a cozy town on the Indonesian island of Pulau Weh with a sleepy yet charming old colonial atmosphere. Many old colonial buildings are still standing, shadowed by huge trees that the Dutch once imported from Suriname. Thanks to its excellent harbor and good water supply Sabang became an important coal loading station for ships en route between Europe and Asia, and at one time was even larger than Singapore. Enjoy the local restaurants and coffee shops (don't miss the traditional Acehnese coffee), the morning market and the nearby beaches. The reefs along nearby Sabang Fair are particularly nice for snorkeling.

Phuket, nestled in the balmy Andaman Sea waters, lies 536 miles south of Bangkok. Initially, Phuket derived its wealth from tin and rubber, and enjoyed a rich and colorful history. Located on a major trade route between India and China, Phuket was frequently mentioned in foreign trader's ship logs. Blessed with a natural heritage of stunning white-sand beaches, sapphire blue seas, exotic marine life and lushly forested hillsides, Phuket is one of Southeast Asia's most popular destinations.

The 90 islands making up the Langkawi group lie 20 miles off the west coast of the Malay Peninsula. The islands remain quiet and relatively unspoiled, with a total population of only 30,000 inhabitants.

Diamond-shaped Pulau Ujong is Singapore's main island and it's bursting with colour, energy and culture.

A busy, cramped and frenetic city, Bangkok has a reputation of bombarding your senses. Centuries of history collide with a fast-paced modern lifestyle.

Koh Kood, also known as Ko Kut, is an island in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is administrated as part of the Ko Kut District in Thailand's Trat Province.

Cruising along the Mekong River past hidden villages, mystical jungles and towering mountains affords a southeast Asian experience like no other

Cruising along the Mekong River past hidden villages, mystical jungles and towering mountains affords a southeast Asian experience like no other

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Penang is a must-visit jewel in the Malaysian crown. Popular with tourists for generations and valued by lovers of both food and culture.

In the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, head straight for the city where historic temples unite with fashionable skyscrapers and lush parks.

Located on the strategically important strait that bears its name, Malacca is a multicultural mosaic of the trade and colonial history of Southeast Asia. From the magnificent Sultanate Palace and the Kampung Kling Mosque to the numerous churches built by the Portuguese and the Dutch, to Hindu and Chinese temples, every ethnic group in search of wealth and power, either earthly or spiritual, has left its mark. The ubiquitous, pedal-powered trishaws are a good way to get around. Straits cuisine is also world-renowned for its variety and complexity, flavored by centuries of cultural intermingling. The city is also a shopping source for Asian antiques.

From the exceptional views across its famous harbour to the sizzling dishes in its glamorous restaurants, you’re sure to fall in love with Hong Kong.