Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand
We visited these countries through Kesari Travels. The arrangements were seamless; from tourist visas to the accompanying Tour Manager from Mumbai airport, every detail was handled for us. Local guides joined us at each airport to ensure we were never alone.
Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner are arranged by the travels. Tickets for shows / entry pass etc are also taken care by them. We need not worry about it.
Our journey began in Pune at 2 PM, heading to Mumbai airport via the Volvo Shivneri bus. After a brief transit in Bangkok, we landed at Singapore's beautiful "Swarna Bumi" (Changi) Airport at 11 AM. The airport was full of flower plants and looks very beautiful.
The city was alive with Christmas decorations. We stayed at the Grand Chancellor Hotel, perfectly located for an evening stroll through the clean, dust-free streets and the bustling Mustafa Shopping Centre.
25th November 2012A day of wonders. We soared 165 meters high on the Singapore Flyer, a giant wheel with many glass cubicles moving slowly. Later, a boat ride on the Singapore River showcased the Fountain of Wealth and towering skyscrapers.
We explored the lush Botanical Gardens before heading to Sentosa Island via a magnificent cable car ride. The highlights included the Underwater World and the spectacular "Songs of the Sea" fountain show at sunset.
Another thing we noticed, Singapore is very famous for levying fines. Sign boards warn that if food is wasted they are liable to be fined.
We crossed into Malaysia by bus, passing through endless plantations of palm trees. Our destination: Genting Highlands, sitting 4,000 feet above sea level. We stayed at the massive First World Hotel—a place with 6,000 rooms!
The Casino was a surprise; it was very decent and orderly. I saw notice boards that these people can seek the help from the casinos to get out of their addictions. This shows a very responsible side of the management.
27th November 2012
After breakfast where 'Dosa' had the longest queue, we explored the outdoor sports area before heading to Kuala Lumpur. The Twin Towers were a magnificent sight, glittering like diamonds in the night sky.
A short flight took us to Bangkok, followed by a 140km drive to Pattaya City. We stayed on the famous Beach Road and attended the Alcazar dance show—a colorful display of Thai culture and music.
29th November 2012Today was for adventure. We took a motor boat 15km out to a floating base for Para-sailing. Flying high above the sea was a thrilling experience for both Lakshmi and myself. Later, we visited Coral Island and the massive 600-acre Noongnatch Park, where we enjoyed an amusing elephant show.
30th November 2012Returning to Bangkok, we visited the majestic Golden Buddha and the massive Reclining Buddha. This one is very huge and posing like Sri Ranganatha at Srirangam! The day ended with some shopping for electronics in the bustling market areas.
1st December 2012Our final day was spent at the Safari Park. Seeing animals roaming freely in a natural zoo was a delight, followed by a world-famous dolphin show. We caught our evening flight home, reaching Mumbai by 10 PM.