Asia: Philippines, Vietnam & Malaysia Norwegian Jewel departing 30 Oct 2023

Keelung City is a port city near Taipei, in northern Taiwan. Surrounded by mountains, it’s known for its sheltered harbor. Near the waterfront, street-food stalls at Miaokou Night Market offer traditional snacks and seafood. Several forts around the area include hilltop Ershawan Fort, with cannons and a Chinese-style gate. Both Gongzi Liao Fort and Dawulun Fort offer views over the harbor and ocean.

Colonization by the Dutch in the 17th century has left an ample architectural legacy, as did Taiwan’s rule by Japan from 1895-1945. Grab a coffee at the former British Consulate, a landmark overlooking the bay. Art lovers can enjoy the outdoors and contemporary sculptures at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts’ Sculpture Park, and for a spiritual experience, a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Centre, with the world’s largest sitting Buddha, is highly recommended.

Home to 12 million, the capital of the Philippines is a dynamic city with a rich colonial history dating to 1565, when the Spanish arrived. Dive into the most popular attractions, including the elegant Malacanang Palace, the National Museum of the Philippines and Rizal Park. The poignant, 150-acre American Cemetery and Memorial holds U.S. and Allied servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. The historic walled city core, Intramuros, is well worth exploring.

This bustling, ethnically diverse city offers sightseers a diversity of culture and eras. A gold-domed mosque, unique high-rise architecture and the Heritage Village all combine to paint a picture of the city’s past. Venture into the interior to astonishing Kinabalu Park, where exotic plants and rare orchids flourish. Spend time on the glorious beaches and enjoy the local fresh fish.

A drive through the city or a boat ride on its canals will let you capture the spirit of Muara. Ornate mosques glitter in the sun with their golden domes and minarets. Visit the Brunei Museum, a repository of Malay culture and Islamic art, or take a water taxi over to Kampong Ayer, “the Water Village.” Experience a trip back in time with a visit inland to a Dayak village. Back in Muara, look for silver jewellery, brass and bronze items, intricately made heirloom sarongs and antiques.

Situated on a picturesque bay, Nha Trang is known for its sandy beaches and one of the longest cable cars in the world. At two miles long, the cable car to Hon Tre Island offers an amazing, mobile view over the bay. If history calls you, a visit to the Po Nagar Cham Towers dating to 781 is in order. Also compelling is the Long Song Pagoda, with its intricate architecture, mosaics and garden. Linger on the grounds, then climb 150 stone steps to the 70-foot-tall White Buddha at the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Nha Trang.

Discover the rich heritage of Saigon and the Mekong Delta. You won’t forget a ride on a cycle rickshaw, known locally as xích lô (“sick-low”). Sit back as your driver whisks you past pagodas, colonial architecture and vibrant markets. A nice contrast to the city is the lush countryside of rice paddies and tiny villages along the Mekong. The freshness of the food is highlighted by the phenomenal fusion of local cuisine, a unique blend of Asian spices and French cooking styles.

Explore a compact, fascinating city-state that’s truly global. A onetime British trading post, its diverse past is reflected everywhere, from its old Chinese quarter and colourful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers and common language, English. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River or a pedicab ride through town, or enjoy the quiet at the National Orchid Garden. Interested in Asian medicine? A special medicinal restaurant can prescribe just the menu to help you feel your best.