The Far East and the Orient

To most North Americans, the Far East and Orient define the essence of exotic destinations. Far from home in nearly every sense, these lands have dazzled and enthralled travelers with their fascinating traditions, stunning beauty, rich history and rich cultural heritage.

The diverse countries and cultures of this area of the world encompass a vast area and countless ports of call from Japan to the Indian subcontinent. Those who journey here can experience the wonders of some of the oldest known civilizations - and delight in the region's unique architecture, cuisine and art.

Apart from world cruises, whose itineraries generally sample key ports in the Orient and the Far East as they circle the globe, most cruises in this part of the world focus on specific areas, such as Japan and eastern China, the South China Sea and Southeast Asia, and the Indian Ocean and India. Typically these sailings visit several countries, each with its own distinctive culture, along with stops at enchanting and beautiful islands.

Although many of these are voyages of 10 days or more, seven-day cruises are also available. A journey to these faraway places easily merits an extended visit, and most lines offer extensive pre- and post-cruise land programs to add another dimension to the experience.

Ports of Call

Beijing -

Although not a seaport, the ancient capital of China is within easy reach of land excursions from ships calling at Tianjin. With a history stretching back over thousands of years, Beijing ranks as one of the world's great cities, offering visitors a window to the marvels that dazzled Marco Polo and the life of modern China.

The Forbidden City -

Long hidden from all by the rulers of China, this incredible complex of palaces, temples and museums in the heart of Beijing today is open to public tours. Among the wonders of the world's architecture and art, the palace contains priceless treasures from the ruling dynasties of the land's long history.

Treasures to Take Home -

Visitors to Beijing will find wonderful silks and traditional and modern Chinese art along with the usual souvenir items in the city's many shops.

The Great Wall -

Excursions to the monumental structure that has been a symbol of China for centuries require a full day, including a stop at the Ming tombs, but this legendary achievement of engineering and human labor must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Bangkok -

The exotic royal city of Thailand embodies the deep serenity of eastern tradition in the midst of an intensely alive, bustling metropolis. Life here centers on the Chao Praya River, which runs through the city. "Dragon boats" provide water-borne transportation along this artery, and the city's world-famous floating market serve as a key element in Bangkok's commercial life.

Royal Palace -

Golden spires, temples and statuary mark this heart of Thai culture. Still home to the nation's royal family, much this complex of spectacular buildings and gardens is open for public tours, and visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring its grounds and marveling at the treasures there.

Bargains Galore -

The open-air markets of Bangkok are renowned throughout the world for their wealth of bargains and unique selections of goods. Shopaholics won't want to miss the chance to wander among the stalls looking for treasures to take home.

Dining Delights -

Thai cuisine is a culinary experience that visitors can enjoy to the fullest at Bangkok's many restaurants, where they will find an incredible variety of uniquely dishes featuring coconut milk, peanut sauces and spices.

Bombay (Mumbai) -

On India's northwestern coast, Bombay embodies the bustling, multi-faceted complexity of India, as well as its long history.

Sampling the City -

Escorted city tours provide cruise vacationers a way to capture a sense of the city's life and its sights, from open-air public laundries to the hanging gardens.

Elephant Island -

A boat ride from the Gate of India takes visitors to see the spectacular Sixth Century temples carved from rock caves on this nearby island. Escorted tours provide English-speaking guides to explain the thousands of exotic, hand-carved images in the caves.

Crawford Market -

Though its exterior is Victorian - Rudyard Kipling's father designed the building - the chaotic bargaining and trading inside is pure Indian, as are the fine jewelry, semiprecious gems, fabrics and apparel, crafts and other goods to be found there. Bargain hunters who enjoy negotiating for a better deal will find this pure heaven.