Asia & Australia Ocean Liner Elegance

Your guide to Hong Kong.

Few cities balance old and new like Hong Kong. A city as fiercely modern as it is traditional, life here pulses with vigour and vitality while still honouring ancient customs and beliefs. Market traders hawk steaming dumplings on neon-lit streets. Sacred temples stand in the shadow of skyscrapers and luxury boutiques populate glossy shopping centres. Contradiction is all part of Hong Kong’s appeal, the city’s dynamic personality a complementary blend of Chinese and British influences. Heralded as one of the world’s foremost culinary, cultural and commercial capitals, a port call here provides myriad ways to satisfy your stomach, your senses and your suitcase.

Exploring.

Hong Kong buzzes with grand galleries, thriving art complexes and auspicious temples. Retreat among the city’s parks, or travel back to the time of tea houses and Cantonese opera. Hong Kong's rich history and contemporary flair shine through in Tai Kwun Centre, a fascinating and forward-thinking arts complex. Kowloon Park, with its two-tiered lotus pond and basking terrapins, provides the perfect refuge from city life, while climbing Victoria Peak reveals spectacular city views. Finally, pay a visit to the incense-infused Man Mo Temple. This sacred tribute to the Gods of War and Literature has welcomed worshippers in Hong Kong since the 19^th century.

Eating and drinking.

A true culinary capital, Hong Kong is home to over sixty Michelin-starred restaurants, countless traditional eateries and an abundance of street food vendors. The city’s ever-growing coffee scene also has plenty to offer, including top-of-the-line java and accomplished latte art. Stop in for dim sum at one of many contemporary restaurants or seek out traditional Sichuan dishes that evoke the romance of old Beijing. Whether you’re sipping cocktails from a rooftop bar in Kowloon or browsing the countless smouldering food stalls at Temple Street’s atmospheric Night Market, Hong Kong is an explosion of fragrance, colour and flavour.

Shopping.

Shopping in Hong Kong is a thrilling experience. The city is home to countless speciality markets as well as world-class retail centres. Of the former, the Ladies' Market is one of the most popular in the city, bustling with clothing and footwear stalls. Jade Market (as you might anticipate) specialises in jade jewellery, while Stanley Market is renowned for its Chinese handicrafts. Times Square Mall (inspired by its New York namesake) and Pacific Place are both gargantuan shopping plazas, while Landmark is considered Hong Kong’s Holy Grail of designer shopping, boasting an affluent blend of high-end labels and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Beyond Hong Kong.

Venture beyond Hong Kong to the stunning metropolis of Macau, the small fishing village of Tai O or Tian Tan Buddha. Like its U.S counterpart, Macau is a casino capital with bright lights and glitzy hotels that echo the Las Vegas strip. The city is a world away from Tai O on Lantau Island, where fishermen live a humble existence in stilt houses straddling the water. While on Lantau, be sure to see Tian Tan Buddha (commonly known as Big Buddha). A glass-bottomed cable car will transport you to the summit, and the views on the way up are worth the trip alone.

A long and varied history stretches back as far as 5,000 years, with human life occupying the area from around 3000 BC. The city first flourished during the Ming Dynasty due to trade relations with China, before experiencing invasions by Indian, Bruneian and further Chinese empires and then becoming the seat of the colonial government of Spain.

The Spanish first arrived in 1571, assigning Manila as a territory of New Spain, later being named the capital of the Philippines. Things remained the same for the next three centuries, excluding a minor interruption by the British, before the Americans took control in 1901. After difficult times during WWII, the USA left Manila and the city gradually began to form its own identity, earning the status as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’.

With a population of around 22 million and 16 individual territories, it is right to expect your Manila cruise to become exposed to a long list of attractions, locations and activities. Each district is home to its own collection of points of interest so you will be spoiled with things to see and do.

There are some unmissable landmarks to visit throughout the city, as well as several churches, parks and museums. Exploring Intramuros, once the old walled Spanish settlement of Manila, will introduce a number of attractions. Here you will discover Fort Santiago, a major landmark of the city, the imposing Manila Cathedral, the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Agustin Church, and wide and picturesque plazas.

From a colonial taste of Spain to a strong flavour of Asia, Manila is home to one of the largest Chinatowns on the planet. The area is home to Binondo Church, one of the oldest places of Christian worship, joined by Chinese temples such as Seng Guan Temple and the Buddhist temple of Kuang Kong. A stroll down Ongpin Street will present a distinct Chinese flavour, lined by herbal stores and eateries.

One of the best ways to absorb the culture and colour is with one of the city’s incredible festivals. Vibrant and chaotic celebrations are typical of several festivities, particularly in Chinatown during Chinese New Year and during the Semana Santa celebrations in the week preceding Easter Sunday. Do not worry if a festival is not scheduled during your cruise to Manila, there is still plenty going on. Market life in Manila is another great way to experience the day to day function of the city, with several public markets ready to be explored.

The food in the Philippines is fresh, flavoursome and delicious and Manila’s street food markets are a great place to sample the local specialities. Try lumpia, a tasty snack somewhere between a spring roll and a burrito. It is filled with meat, vegetables and a sweet, tangy sauce.

Your guide to Bitung.

From bustling cities to awe-inspiring landscapes, the Indonesian port of Bitung is the gateway to northern Sulawesi’s abundant wonders, including its provincial capital Manado. Fringed by fauna cloaked mountains, Manado is a gastronomic paradise with dining spots turning out aromatic delicacies and beach bars coupling cocktails with salty ocean views. Pick up a souvenir from the seafront arcade, try island-fished tuna (with eye-wateringly hot sambal) and admire the architectural contrasts of colonial Dutch buildings and ancient Buddhist temples. Further afield you’ll encounter the black and white sands of Lembeh Island, the waruga stone graves of Airmadidi Village and the mangrove forests of Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

Exploring.

Wider Bitung is home to a plethora of natural wonders, from bubbling sulphur lakes to volcanoes. Climbing the mouth of Mahawu Crater rewards you with stunning vistas, while a visit to Lake Linow offers the opportunity to observe the colour-changing waters shift from red to green to blue before your eyes. In Manado, you’ll find a diverse and intriguing city rich in temples and churches. Ban Hin Kiong Temple, built in the 19^th century, and Sentrum Church (a symbol of Manado's colonial past) are among the most impressive. Also of interest to visitors is Museum Pinawetengan, which counts the world’s largest working trumpet among its exhibits.

Eating and drinking.

Indonesian cuisine favours seafood, heat and spice. Rice is a staple and coconuts also feature in many forms; from sweet desserts to savoury curries. In both Bitung and Manado you’ll find speciality cafés serving local coffee and a variety of snacks, while Manado additionally boasts sophisticated oceanfront bars. In Bitung, several restaurants can be found on Jalan Samratulangi while Manado’s culinary offer is far-reaching with countless eateries dotted along the coast. Popular native dishes include ayam bakar rica (grilled chicken with hot peppers), cakalang fufu (cured and smoked tuna) and nasi goreng (stir-fried rice topped with a fried egg).

Shopping.

From Karawang embroidery to earthenware pottery, Manado and Bitung are ideal for finding a keepsake from your travels. In Manado, you’ll encounter traditional markets as well as the shopping centres of Manado Town Square and Megamall. The Grand Merciful Building, open 24 hours, also stocks a large selection of souvenirs. In Bitung, several vendors can usually be found in the Harbour Terminal Building. Prices in shops are often flexible unless marked ‘harga pas’ (fixed price) so don’t be afraid to offer less than the quoted price. The morning market, selling fresh fish and produce from the Tomohon highlands, is a spectacle of colours and sounds, and is not to be missed.

Beyond Bitung.

A local ferry from Bitung takes you across the Lembeh Strait to the black and white sand beaches of Lembeh Island, with some very good hikes. Airmadidi Village, in the Minahasa region, is famous for the waruga stone graves dating from the pre-Christian era - many featuring fascinating engravings. The village is also the starting point to reach the peak of Mount Klabat. About 13 miles from Bitung, Tangkoko Nature Reserve offers some of Sulawesi’s loveliest scenery. A number of native birds and mammals can be found here, including Tarsius Tarsier (the world’s second-smallest primate) and the critically endangered Black Crested Macaque monkey. 

Your guide to Darwin.

Darwin is a thriving, multifaceted city and capital of Australia's Northern Territory - one of the most remote and sparsely populated regions in the country. Built on the Timor Sea, the city is the gateway to some of Northern Australia’s most striking natural scenery, while its proximity to South East Asia has fuelled Darwin’s status as a bridge between the country and neighbouring Indonesia. Colossal mountains, verdant grasslands and sprawling national parks surround Darwin’s bustling urban centre, while characterful taverns, unique cultural attractions and a fabulous assortment of fresh fish restaurants reinforce the city’s welcoming, congenial feel.

Exploring.

With fascinating museums, illuminating history and expansive parks, there’s a wealth to entertain visitors on a port call to this beautiful part of Northern Australia. Find inspiration in the indigenous art at the Museum of Northern Territory or venture into the subterranean WWII Oil Storage Tunnels at Darwin waterfront. The Darwin Military Museum recounts historical events using captivating, multimedia exhibits, while George B. Darwin Botanic Gardens is an oasis of native tropical fauna that can’t fail to invigorate the senses. Finally, when the tide gets high, don’t miss the chance to hand-feed hundreds of fish at Aquascene on Darwin’s Doctors Gully.

Eating and drinking.

From cosy cafes and coffee houses to lively modern bars and atmospheric pubs, Darwin offers a variety of places to eat, drink and unwind. While the city is known for its seafood, Darwin’s culinary scene caters for all tastes and dietary preferences. Indulge with a locally sourced steak or sample the city’s fantastic Asian restaurants. Coral trout, sweetlips and red throat emperor are just the tip of Darwin’s fresh fish offer, while barramundi (Asian sea bass) and crocodile steaks are an antipodean delicacy. Wash it all down with a frosty Foster’s, Castlemaine XXXX (pronounced four-x) or a natively produced wine from an award-winning vineyard.

Shopping.

From lively markets and sprawling shopping centres to intimate boutiques and galleries, Darwin boasts an excellent selection of shopping hot spots. Native aboriginal crafts can be tracked down at the city’s weekly markets (in dry season) and among the stores lining Smith Street Mall in the CBD (Central Business District). Popular buys include bark and sand paintings, woven baskets, didgeridoos, dilly-bags woven from the fibres of the Pandanus genus plant and jewellery made from local gemstones such as opal. Casuarina Square, Darwin’s largest shopping centre, is accessible by taxi while multiple fashion and food outlets are located within Darwin Galleria on Smith Street Mall.  

Beyond Darwin.

Around two hours’ drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is a rugged region of spring-fed waterfalls, clear creeks and dense palm forests spanning over 150,000 acres. The park features picturesque swimming areas, rare plants, bat-inhabited caves, and the chance to glimpse Australian wildlife including wallabies, flying foxes and kangaroos. A river cruise to see saltwater jumping crocodiles is another popular excursion from Darwin. Roughly a 40-mile drive from the city, a short boat trip along the Adelaide River delivers you to the area where crocodiles - some up to five metres in length - leap from the water to retrieve food dangling from baited lines.

Your guide to Airlie Beach

Sandwiched between the coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday’s beaches rank among the best in the world. In Airlie Beach itself, you’ll find a laid-back coastal town with surf boutiques, charming souvenir markets and inviting bistros serving a plethora of seafood. Its star attraction, however, is a swimming lagoon of mirage-like proportions. Be sure to wear your swimmers or you’ll kick yourself when you see it.

Exploring

Balancing tradition with modernity, Airlie Beach offers a diverse selection of cultural sites and experiences, both along the beautiful coast and inland. The section of the long Shute Harbour Road is the centre of activity, with ticket agencies, information centres, restaurants, cafés and shops to entice you. Conway National Park, a short distance off the road to Shute Harbour, offers several scenic walks, while Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands are renowned for the opportunities to snorkel and scuba dive. The Whitsunday Islands can be reached by ferry from Airlie Beach in minutes and offer wonderful opportunities to see tropical fish and coral reefs up close.

Eating and Drinking

Airlie Beach enjoys a diverse culinary scene anchored around flame-grilled steaks and fresh catch of the day while its ambient frontline bars offer cold drinks accompanied by ocean views. Seafood reigns supreme in The Whitsundays; coral trout is a local delicacy (considered to be one of the tastiest fish in Queensland) while shellfish features prominently on Airlie Beach menus. Shute Harbour Road and the Esplanade are where you’ll find a concentration of restaurants and cafés as well as informal street food outlets serving carry-out dishes. Look out for the few establishments designated BYO (Bring Your Own), allowing you to provide your own wine for a small corkage fee.

Shopping

The stunning sands and warm waters of Airlie Beach are a haven for surfers, so it’s unsurprising that many shops cater to this nature of traveller. If you did forget your swimwear at home, Airlie Beach will be your salvation. The town is teeming with surf shops and fashion brands selling a range of holiday-wear suited to sunnier climes. If you’re looking for a keepsake from your time in The Whitsundays, Airlie Beach market – which opens on Saturdays and ship days – offers craft goods by local makers. On Shute Harbour Road you’ll also find shops selling semi-precious stones and aboriginal art.  

Beyond Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is one of the most popular departure points for travellers visiting the Great Barrier Reef and The Whitsunday Islands. Of the latter, Hamilton Island offers magnificent beaches, excellent snorkelling and hiking trails that lead to incredible panoramic vistas. It can be easily reached from Airlie Beach by a ferry from the marina, with around 10 crossings each day. Alternatively, the historical town of Proserpine (famous for its sugar production) lies half an hour’s drive from Airlie Beach via Shute Harbour Road. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Proserpine Museum or take a boat trip down the Proserpine River in search of saltwater crocodiles.

Semi-tropical Brisbane is beautifully landscaped, with jacarandas, flame trees and bougainvillea thriving here. Tours from the city bring you face to face with koalas, kangaroos and wombats.

Your port guide to Sydney.

Blessed with a natural harbour, countless golden beaches and world-class restaurants, Sydney is a dazzling metropolis and international gateway to Australia’s east coast. The city is famed for the quality of its outdoor living, yet a visit here offers more than a chance to soak up the sun. The Sydney Harbour Bridge, world-famous Opera House and the constant bustle of the harbour itself make Sydney one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Venturing outside the capital of New South Wales unlocks mysterious protected coves, miles of sandy beaches and the dramatic landscape of the breath-taking Blue Mountains.

Exploring.

For spectacular 360-degree views, ascend Sydney Harbour Bridge’s south-east pylon from which Sydney Opera House and The Rocks - one of the city’s liveliest precincts and home to the Museum of Sydney and Museum of Contemporary Art - are visible. The Sydney Aquarium, National Maritime Museum and the Chinese Garden of Friendship can be found in Darling Harbour, with Chinatown also nearby. The Australian Museum, ranked one of the top five history museums in the world, is ideal for anyone wishing to deepen their knowledge of Australia’s aboriginal heritage. Alternatively, escape the city’s hustle at Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Incorporating Government House and the Conservatorium of Music, this sprawling parkland offers 24 hectares of native exotic trees.

Eating and drinking.

Those unfamiliar with Sydney may be surprised by the sophistication of the city’s culinary scene. Sydney offers myriad dining experiences drawing on both eastern and western influences, along with restaurants producing some of the most innovative nouveau cuisine in the world. Thai, Vietnamese, Indian and Korean restaurants are abundant in the city while Italian, Greek, Lebanese and the cuisines of central Europe are also popular. If you’re seeking a central spot to stop and grab a bite around lunchtime, Circular Quay - wedged between the Opera House and The Rocks - is a bustling precinct jammed with quality restaurants offering quayside dining.

Shopping.

Sydney offers an exciting shopping experience encompassing department stores, boutiques and designer emporiums, all located within the city centre itself. Pitt Street Mall is perhaps the most renowned of Sydney’s shopping precincts, offering a blend of internationally renowned brands alongside some delightful native Australian names. Westfield and The Strand Arcade both branch off from here and you could easily fill a day browsing the variety of shops in this area alone. Alternatively, Queen Victoria Building, constructed in 1898, offers undercover shopping in a beautiful historic arcade while World Square is another excellent shopping option that combines dining and retail in one convenient location.

Beyond Sydney.

Sydney is ideally located to explore many of New South Wales’ most popular tourist attractions. The Blue Mountains, comprising four national parks, are located just 65km west of the city and feature a spectacular collection of broken ravines, towering cliffs and high forested plateaux. On the edge of the spectacular Jamison Valley you’ll find the historic town of Katoomba where you can ride Australia’s famous Scenic Railway. Also within easy reach of Sydney are the lovely gardens of the cool Southern Highlands, the family-friendly beaches of the Central Coast and the pretty Hunter Valley; Australia’s oldest commercial wine-growing district.