The Trail of the Gecko

Itinerary

Day 1 Singapore

Sample local delights in Chinatown or head to the shopping heaven that is Orchard Road. Wandering through Little India is a great way to see old parts of the mainly modern city.

Day 2 Melaka

See how colonial and Peranakan cultures have interwoven on a trishaw tour of this fascinating town. Stroll around the narrow streets to absorb the atmosphere and heritage of this historically important town.

Days 3-4 Kuala Lumpur

Get your bearings with a half-day city tour. There's free time afterwards to visit one of the world's tallest buildings or sample the many different cuisines that KL is justly famous for.

Days 5-6 Homestay

Visit lush orchards to taste a variety of tropical fruit and take a trek into the jungle. There's lots of free time to soak in nearby hot springs or cycle around the kampang. Get close to nature at a village homestay and learn about Malay cooking and customs while enjoying traditional Muslim food. Sit cross-legged while eating like locals do, with your fingers.

Days 7-8 Penang

The original Chinese atmosphere of the island still exists, making it an intriguing place to explore. Delve into local history at the War Museum, take the funicular railway to the top of Penang Hill for superb views or head to Butterfly Farm for an insight into Malaysia's fascinating insects.

Day 9 Nakhon Si Thammarat

Check out Wat Phra Mahathat, southern Thailand's biggest temple. Nakhon Si Thammarat is renowned for its shadow puppets, carved from buffalo hide.

Days 10-13 Ko Samui/Overnight Train

Laze on white sandy beaches and explore exotic marine life on our island getaway. There's time to embark on an optional elephant trek before the overnight journey to Bangkok.

Days 14-15 Bangkok

Explore Bangkok's khlongs by longtail boat. A visit to Wat Pho could be combined with a relaxing Thai massage.

Day 16 Sukhothai

Cycle among the glorious ruins of Thailand's first capital, built in the 12th century. Why not take the opportunity to wander around rice paddies for a perfect sunset snap?

Day 17 Lampang

Take a step back in time and tour Lampang's temples by bicycle. Feast on a home-cooked picnic lunch and call in at a local ceramics factory along the way.

Day 18 Homestay

Enjoy an elephant ride, learn about hilltribe crafts at a Karen village and enjoy northern hospitality at our traditional homestay.

Days 19-21 Chiang Mai/Overnight Train

Rise early to offer alms to monks or perhaps even take in an early morning yoga session. Visit the hilltop temple of Doi Suthep or learn to bamboo raft in this vibrant city. Call in at the famous night bazaar to grab a last-minute souvenir or final pad thai.

Day 22 Bangkok

The journey comes to a close in Bangkok. Linger longer to explore the many sights of this exciting city.