Discovering Indonesia & Iconic Australia

The rain-forested, mountainous island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, has some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches situated along the clear blue waters of its western shore. This idyllic high-end island resort contrasts nicely with the culturally-rich capital, Phuket Town, which offers busy markets and fabulous food.

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is connected to the southern tip of the country by a couple of short road bridges. The island has wonderful soft white beaches, fringed by shady palm trees and grass huts. Just offshore, many uninhabited outcrops of tall limestone crags rise straight out of the sea and cry out to be explored. Phuket is the ideal spot to truly relax and unwind with incredible views of the surrounding bays.

In Phuket Town, the Thalang National Museum has fascinating displays about the island’s indigenous culture. There are a couple of Hindu Temples on the island, as well as a number of Buddhist shrines, including the Wat Chalong Temple, which is the centre for worship on Phuket. High in the Nakkerd Hills, northwest of Chalong Circle, the 45m-high Big Buddha sits in imposing fashion on the island's finest viewpoint.

The rain-forested, mountainous island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, has some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches situated along the clear blue waters of its western shore. This idyllic high-end island resort contrasts nicely with the culturally-rich capital, Phuket Town, which offers busy markets and fabulous food.

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is connected to the southern tip of the country by a couple of short road bridges. The island has wonderful soft white beaches, fringed by shady palm trees and grass huts. Just offshore, many uninhabited outcrops of tall limestone crags rise straight out of the sea and cry out to be explored. Phuket is the ideal spot to truly relax and unwind with incredible views of the surrounding bays.

In Phuket Town, the Thalang National Museum has fascinating displays about the island’s indigenous culture. There are a couple of Hindu Temples on the island, as well as a number of Buddhist shrines, including the Wat Chalong Temple, which is the centre for worship on Phuket. High in the Nakkerd Hills, northwest of Chalong Circle, the 45m-high Big Buddha sits in imposing fashion on the island's finest viewpoint.

Although it has been a popular destination for in-the-know divers and hikers for decades, remote Weh Island – also known locally as Pulau Weh – has managed to stay off Indonesia’s well-trodden beaten track. The island, much of which is part of a National Wildlife Protection Area, is beautifully unspoilt and boasts gorgeous beaches, dense jungle interiors and coral reefs that beg for exploration.

Weh’s scuba diving and snorkelling spots are among the very best in Southeast Asia. The island’s underwater canyons and rugged rocks are sanctuary’s for a diverse array of marine flora and fauna, such as lionfish and clown fish, thorny seahorse, hawksbill turtle, Kuhl’s stingray and whale sharks to name just a few. Wonderful wildlife awaits discovery within the depths of the island’s lush volcanic landscapes too, including wild monkeys, lizards, boar and colourful butterflies.

Sabang, Weh’s capital, is a delight in itself, fronted by breathtaking, wind-swept white sands and surrounded by the rich rainforest of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. No time here is complete without venturing into Sabang to sample the local traditions and culture; visit the Monument of Kilometre Zero of Indonesia, Indonesia’s westernmost point; and to take in historic sites such as the Japanese Fortress.

Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, this dynamic city-state is the perfect cocktail of culture, cruising, arts and architecture. This global financial centre with a tropical climate and multicultural population is passionately working towards its dream of a ‘City in a Garden’.

Getting around Singapore is a fairly rapid affair, thanks to one of the world’s most efficient and widespread public transport systems. Its colonial core centres on the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now flanked by grand buildings such as City Hall, and its multitude of Corinthian columns. The 19th century red-and-gold Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, allegedly houses one of Buddha's teeth.

The concrete that once dominated the city skyline is slowly being replaced by ‘green skyscrapers’, which look more like living ecosystems than office buildings. Visitors stepping out of the centre will find walking trails, treetop bridges, indigenous wildlife and the city's green jewel, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Singapore Botanic Gardens.

A tantalizing selection of food sold from street markets is dotted around the city. Food is taken very seriously: from cheap street fare to Michelin-starred dining, Singaporean foodies will happily queue for it. Of course, for sheer elegance, nothing beats a Singapore Sling in the Raffles Hotel.

Singapore has always drawn visits from a variety of sea craft. Merchants of every race, colour and faith were quickly drawn to the island, and by 1911, Singapore’s population comprised of 48 races, speaking 54 languages. Malay is now the official language.  

Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, this dynamic city-state is the perfect cocktail of culture, cruising, arts and architecture. This global financial centre with a tropical climate and multicultural population is passionately working towards its dream of a ‘City in a Garden’.

Getting around Singapore is a fairly rapid affair, thanks to one of the world’s most efficient and widespread public transport systems. Its colonial core centres on the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now flanked by grand buildings such as City Hall, and its multitude of Corinthian columns. The 19th century red-and-gold Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, allegedly houses one of Buddha's teeth.

The concrete that once dominated the city skyline is slowly being replaced by ‘green skyscrapers’, which look more like living ecosystems than office buildings. Visitors stepping out of the centre will find walking trails, treetop bridges, indigenous wildlife and the city's green jewel, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Singapore Botanic Gardens.

A tantalizing selection of food sold from street markets is dotted around the city. Food is taken very seriously: from cheap street fare to Michelin-starred dining, Singaporean foodies will happily queue for it. Of course, for sheer elegance, nothing beats a Singapore Sling in the Raffles Hotel.

Singapore has always drawn visits from a variety of sea craft. Merchants of every race, colour and faith were quickly drawn to the island, and by 1911, Singapore’s population comprised of 48 races, speaking 54 languages. Malay is now the official language.  

When hearing ‘Semarang’, our minds often flit to the sensational Borobudur Temple, first built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Sailendra Dynasty. With a fantastic tour to walk around the grounds and along the steps of enlightenment, your stop here would not be complete without a visit.

Alternatively, jump at the opportunity to explore the many rice paddies and vast rural spaces which are simply breath-taking, and on a beautiful sunny day, can be a therapeutic and relaxing contrast to the busy inner-city.

For those staying in the city, the authentic Chinatown rubs shoulders with both modern and Dutch Colonial buildings, while Buddhist and Hindu temples, Islamic Mosques and Christian churches point to the town's ethnic mix.

One of the most beautiful buildings is the Sam Po Kong Temple, built to honour the Chinese commander Cheng Ho and extensively renovated in 2006 on the 600th anniversary of his voyage to Semarang. In the former Dutch quarter, the Oudstadt, is the Gereja Blenduk, the ''Doomed Church'' which is the oldest in central Java.

The overall style is neo-classical, but various local influences give it a rather idiosyncratic feel. Also worth seeing is the splendid Stasiun Tawang, the oldest railway station in the country

Although situated just 21 miles off the east coast of bustling Bali, Lombok has managed to remain relatively untouched by those who flock to Indonesia’s myriad of mesmerising islands, despite being just as beguiling and beautiful as its better-known neighbours. This only adds to Lombok’s appeal though; the island offers those who are lucky enough to visit a sense of uncovering somewhere ‘undiscovered’, hidden away from the world, and rewards those who take time to explore with unspoilt beaches and spectacular volcanic landscapes.

On the west coast, Lembar provides a wonderful first glimpse of Lombok’s outstanding natural beauty; this quiet town is surrounded by a gorgeous panorama of verdant valleys and inviting azure inlets that tempt those who arrive via the island’s main port to explore further.

From Lembar many of Lombok’s main attractions are within reach. An exploration of the west coast for example can include time at Senggigi, with it’s glorious beaches; a stop at Mataram, the island’s capital, to marvel at impressive temples and flora-rich gardens; or even a visit to Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia’s second highest volcano and a haven for wildlife such as birds and monkeys.

The Indonesian island of Komodo, is a combination of rusty-red volcanic hills, savannah and forests, and is the rugged habitat of the 3m-long Komodo dragon monitor lizard. Komodo National Park covers this entire region and is home to more than 4,000 dragons. The surrounding seas have extensive coral reefs, mangrove swamps and sea-grass beds, and are occupied by a variety of sharks, dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and whales. The park was established to protect the unique Komodo Dragon and the local ecosystem. Visits to the island are strictly controlled and only a limited number of organised tours can gain access.

With its beautiful rice fields watered by shallow rivers and forests with many kinds of flora and fauna, Bali is one of Earth's most idyllic places. The friendly locals create a warm, inviting atmosphere, encouraging you to explore the many attractions that the island has to offer including incredible temples, rugged coasts and sandy beaches.

With its beautiful rice fields watered by shallow rivers and forests with many kinds of flora and fauna, Bali is one of Earth's most idyllic places. The friendly locals create a warm, inviting atmosphere, encouraging you to explore the many attractions that the island has to offer including incredible temples, rugged coasts and sandy beaches.

A tropical gem situated on the gorgeous Indian Ocean coast, beautiful Broome – often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Western Australia’ – is best known for its striking coastal landscapes and spectacular beaches. Cable Beach, considered one of the world’s best beaches, is, for many, the main attraction. This 14-mile strip of glorious white sands, gently lapped by warm, flat waters, is synonymous with soothing relaxation and sunset camel rides along the coast. [ReadMoreMob]

Away from the breathtaking beaches, a stroll into Broome Town reveals plenty of highlights, from an array of boutiques, pubs and cafés to the delights of the cultural Chinatown district, such as the jewellers of Dampier Terrace, where locally sourced South Sea Pearls are sold. For a taste of local flavours, Matso’s Brewery – popular with locals and visitors alike – is a ‘must-visit’ to sample a selection of delicious, carefully crafted beers.

For those feeling adventurous, Broome is perfectly located for tours to the Dampier Peninsula, to explore stunning natural landscapes and delve into the rich culture and history of local indigenous people.

An extrovert city with a dynamic skyline. Visit nearby Fremantle (the city’s superbly restored Victorian port) which boasts immaculate gardens and parkland – and 20 miles of Indian Ocean ‘Sunset Coast’ beaches. Northwards is the Nambung National Park and its Pinnacles Desert, where ancient limestone pillars rise from the sand dunes.

The breathtaking beauty of Albany's rugged coastline marks the spot where the first European settlers set foot in Western Australia. The Rainbow Coast creates a fitting backdrop to the town’s dramatic history of pioneers, convicts and whaling. This charming city is a grand mixture of old and new, as the stately old quarter merges easily with the modern offerings of retail therapy and a vibrant art scene.[ReadMoreMob]

Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, a former whale processing plant, now houses an intriguing museum. The southern coastline and the rural surrounds are bursting with nature, historic attractions and a rich diversity of wildlife. Migrating whales pass off the coast at Torndirrup National Park, where steep cliffs give way to dramatic rock formations.

Although situated just off the mainland south coast and a short boat ride away from the vibrant city of Adelaide, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s hidden gems. A wonderland of untouched, rugged landscapes and huge national parks, the island is a natural sanctuary for thriving native wildlife including birds, koalas, wallabies and, as the island’s name suggests, kangaroos. It’s also a haven for visitors from the mainland and beyond looking to trade the hustle and bustle for a taste of authentic rural life.

Penneshaw, gateway to Kangaroo Island, is the perfect base from which to explore the spectacular, unspoilt wilderness here. Not-to-be-missed is Flinders Chase National Park, where you can encounter kangaroos, cape barren geese, rare western whipbirds and much more, and discover huge rock formations such as the Remarkable Rocks, one of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic sites. At Seal Bay Conservation Park, visitors have the chance to walk among colonies of friendly sea lions – a simply unforgettable experience.

Opt to explore the island’s gorgeous coastline and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful bays and secluded, white-sand beaches bathed in sunshine. Alternatively, you might choose to spend some time in laidback Penneshaw, where the Farmers Market and Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum are well worth visiting. Don’t miss the Sunset Winery, where you can enjoy stunning views over a glass or two of delicious, locally-produced wine.

Melbourne is the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. The city’s elegant tree-lined boulevards, extensive parks and gardens, colourful trams, rich cultural programmes and art-deco high-rises set the scene in this classy, vibrant community.

Stylish, art-loving Melbourne is wonderfully cosmopolitan, and is proud to be recognised as Australia's sporting and cultural capital. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is home to Arts Centre Melbourne – a performing arts complex, while the National Gallery of Victoria has stunning Australian and indigenous art. Melbourne's liberal, bohemian and progressive personality means it was ‘hipster’ long before the word became a ubiquitous label.

The city centre is defined by the modern Federation Square development, with smart plazas and chic bars and restaurants all well-situated by the Yarra River. The breadth of shops and markets, not to mention the huge variety of cuisine available – Greek, Italian, Maltese, Thai, Vietnamese and more – is a mouth-watering prospect for any visitor.

The inner city is probably the most European of any in Australia: the leafy Collins Street was coined as the 'Paris End' in the 1950s. The city's well-ordered grid also adds a flavour of New York in this extraordinary destination. The Royal Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Zoo are two other attractions that are worthy of discovery.

Melbourne is the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria. The city’s elegant tree-lined boulevards, extensive parks and gardens, colourful trams, rich cultural programmes and art-deco high-rises set the scene in this classy, vibrant community.

Stylish, art-loving Melbourne is wonderfully cosmopolitan, and is proud to be recognised as Australia's sporting and cultural capital. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is home to Arts Centre Melbourne – a performing arts complex, while the National Gallery of Victoria has stunning Australian and indigenous art. Melbourne's liberal, bohemian and progressive personality means it was ‘hipster’ long before the word became a ubiquitous label.

The city centre is defined by the modern Federation Square development, with smart plazas and chic bars and restaurants all well-situated by the Yarra River. The breadth of shops and markets, not to mention the huge variety of cuisine available – Greek, Italian, Maltese, Thai, Vietnamese and more – is a mouth-watering prospect for any visitor.

The inner city is probably the most European of any in Australia: the leafy Collins Street was coined as the 'Paris End' in the 1950s. The city's well-ordered grid also adds a flavour of New York in this extraordinary destination. The Royal Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Zoo are two other attractions that are worthy of discovery.

Hobart is the second-oldest city in Australia and it has many well-preserved colonial buildings, especially around the picturesque harbour and in the narrow lanes of Battery Point.

Many of the fine sandstone warehouses have been converted into cafés, galleries and artists’ workshops. The Narryna Heritage Museum, tells the story of wealthy merchants who settled on the island. If you're feeling energetic, climb the 259 steps of the Shot Tower for views out over the town and harbour.

Sydney, Australia is one of the world's most exciting, must-see modern cities. Home to the famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House – two of the most iconic cityscapes on Earth – the capital of New South Wales has a visual wow factor that most other cities can only dream of.

Defined by the rugged Pacific coastline that surrounds it, Sydney is a timeless, cosmopolitan metropolis that is easy to fall in love with.[ReadMoreMob] The imposing Darling Harbour, plus the smaller Circular Quay Port are the hubs of waterside life, with the revered Royal Botanic Garden nearby. For the more adventurous, Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.

Compared with its Australian counterparts, Sydney is loud and brash. It has glamour and casualness in equal measure: there is a balance between the beach culture found on Bondi Beach and the fine dining and vibrant nightlife found in Kings Cross and Oxford Street.

Museums and memorials abound and include The Australian Museum, which opened in 1857 with the purpose of displaying the natural wealth of the colony, and the modern Museum of Sydney, which details the city's development. The Anzac War Memorial in Hyde Park is a public memorial dedicated to the achievement of Australia's armed forces in World War I.

The neoclassical Greek frontage of the NSW Art Gallery underlines the prominent and gregarious role art has in Sydney society. Major international exhibitions regularly arrive here and there's an outstanding permanent collection of indigenous art. And everything that’s best in contemporary Australian cuisine can be found at Circular Quay and The Rocks.

For those wanting to escape the city and go off the beaten path, the spectacular Blue Mountain or the Australian Bush offer spectacular sights and experiences. Sydney Harbour National Park protects large swathes of bushland, while Botany Bay’s history and connection to Britain is a big draw.

Sydney, Australia is one of the world's most exciting, must-see modern cities. Home to the famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House – two of the most iconic cityscapes on Earth – the capital of New South Wales has a visual wow factor that most other cities can only dream of.

Defined by the rugged Pacific coastline that surrounds it, Sydney is a timeless, cosmopolitan metropolis that is easy to fall in love with.[ReadMoreMob] The imposing Darling Harbour, plus the smaller Circular Quay Port are the hubs of waterside life, with the revered Royal Botanic Garden nearby. For the more adventurous, Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.

Compared with its Australian counterparts, Sydney is loud and brash. It has glamour and casualness in equal measure: there is a balance between the beach culture found on Bondi Beach and the fine dining and vibrant nightlife found in Kings Cross and Oxford Street.

Museums and memorials abound and include The Australian Museum, which opened in 1857 with the purpose of displaying the natural wealth of the colony, and the modern Museum of Sydney, which details the city's development. The Anzac War Memorial in Hyde Park is a public memorial dedicated to the achievement of Australia's armed forces in World War I.

The neoclassical Greek frontage of the NSW Art Gallery underlines the prominent and gregarious role art has in Sydney society. Major international exhibitions regularly arrive here and there's an outstanding permanent collection of indigenous art. And everything that’s best in contemporary Australian cuisine can be found at Circular Quay and The Rocks.

For those wanting to escape the city and go off the beaten path, the spectacular Blue Mountain or the Australian Bush offer spectacular sights and experiences. Sydney Harbour National Park protects large swathes of bushland, while Botany Bay’s history and connection to Britain is a big draw.

Brisbane, the sophisticated capital city of Queensland on Australia’s east coast, is one of the world's fastest developing cities. With its harmonious mix of elegant colonial sandstone structures and modern glass skyscrapers, this friendly, welcoming city has a laid back, vibrant atmosphere.  [ReadMoreMob]

Art and outdoor adventure are always on the agenda; the South Bank's cultural institutions and restaurants combine with riverside gardens and a lagoon. Take the paddle steamer or ferry down the Brisbane River, or bike ride through the City Botanic Gardens. A day trip to Moreton Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast hinterland are regular favourites, while, for the more adventurous, Kangaroo Point cliffs offer abseiling.

A more sedate day can be spent exploring the city’s numerous walks, reserves and barbecue hotspots. Australia Zoo – owned by the family of the late Steve Irwin – and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, are home to various native Australian animals. 

The simply spectacular corals, tropical islands and colourful flora and fauna of the Great Barrier Reef have to be seen to be believed, and there’s no better way to appreciate the outstanding natural beauty of this UNESCO-listed wonder than on a Fred. Olsen cruise.

Admire the striking colours of the coral cays piercing through the crystal-clear waters; look out for rays, dolphins, sea turtles, giant clams and over 1500 species of tropical fish swimming between the dense reefs; and keep an eye on the skies to spot more than 200 types of birds all from the comfort of your ship’s decks. 

The simply spectacular corals, tropical islands and colourful flora and fauna of the Great Barrier Reef have to be seen to be believed, and there’s no better way to appreciate the outstanding natural beauty of this UNESCO-listed wonder than on a Fred. Olsen cruise.

Admire the striking colours of the coral cays piercing through the crystal-clear waters; look out for rays, dolphins, sea turtles, giant clams and over 1500 species of tropical fish swimming between the dense reefs; and keep an eye on the skies to spot more than 200 types of birds all from the comfort of your ship’s decks. 

Townsville is a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. But the appeal of this lovely region expands further from the city of Townsville.

To the east sprawls the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and it isn’t hard to see why.[ReadMoreMob] It is larger than the Great Wall of China and is the only living thing on earth visible from space. To the west of Townsville you will find the vast outback while to the north stands lush rainforest, while in the city centre you will find the world renowned Reef HQ - the world's largest living coral reef aquarium - the Billabong Sanctuary, where you can learn all about Australia's fascinating wildlife, and many other cultural and heritage attractions.

Cairns is the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north, and renowned for its sultry climate and laid back ambience. The city used to be popular with visitors who came in search of gold, but now they visit to discover something even more precious: the Great Barrier Reef. The unmissable coral reef is easily accessible via boat trips from the city. [ReadMoreMob]

The focal point of Cairns itself is the 2km-long Esplanade, with its cafés, bars, piazzas, fine historic buildings and swimming lagoon. The Tanks Art Centre and nearby Flecker Botanical Gardens are worth uncovering, while the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park recounts stories of indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait people through music and dance.

Cairns is also home to the beautiful Wet Tropics Rainforest. The best way to see this natural wonder is to take the Kuranda Scenic Railway north from the city, passing over bridges and through tunnels carved from the cliff-face and to the village of Kuranda. From there, the 7.5km Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers a ride above the rainforest canopy in glass-sided gondolas.