16 Nights Middle East

This small, roughly diamond-shaped island at the end of peninsular Malaysia may be coated in modernity, but underneath lies conservative Confucian values. Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian influences make Singapore a highly tolerant city with a wealth of fascinatingly sundry cultures.

Home to nearly 2 million people, Malaysias bustling capital Kuala Lumpur is a massive city of skyscrapers and historic architecture. See the Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world, with their ultra-modern style and contrasting traditional motifs from Islamic art. Then, stroll down to KLCC Park and walk around its man-made lake and fountain backdropped by the modern skyline. Cruise to Malaysia and explore the historic side of Kuala Lumpur at the iconic Thean Hou Temple, with its red pillars, intricate carvings and decorative artifacts from Buddhist, Confucian and Tao tradition. Or see the Moorish architecture of Jamek Mosque, situated at the crossing of the Klang and Gombak rivers.

The island of Phuket (pronounced "Poo-ket") is often called the Pearl of Thailand at Kata Noi Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot where you can soak in the sun and sand and unwind.

The island of Phuket (pronounced "Poo-ket") is often called the Pearl of Thailand at Kata Noi Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot where you can soak in the sun and sand and unwind.

Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers?but don't be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city. Take a train ride along the coast to Mount Lavinia, a popular beach, or explore the Talangama Wetland, which several TripAdvisor travelers say is the perfect place to take a break from the bustling streets of the city.

Kerala is the talk of the town when it comes to travel in India, and the city of Cochin gives you a glimpse into why people love the state so much. Walk the streets of Cochin Fort ? here, youll find the St. Francis Church, Indias oldest colonial-built place of worship, as well as bustling Princess Street, with its colorful architecture displaying Dutch, Portuguese and British influence. See the Chinese fishing nets at the bay, purportedly brought here in the 14th century by emissaries of emperor Kublai Khan. Cruise to Cochin and explore the ornate Paradesi Synagogue and learn more about Keralas historic Jewish community, or feast on a paratha flatbread at a local eatery.

Known as Bombay in colonial times, Mumbai today is one of Indias most cosmopolitan cities. Marvel at the towering Gateway of India, the enormous arch thats one of Indias most recognizable symbols.

Known as Bombay in colonial times, Mumbai today is one of Indias most cosmopolitan cities. Marvel at the towering Gateway of India, the enormous arch thats one of Indias most recognizable symbols.

In Muscat, Omans attractive capital, youll find a city steeped in the medieval heritage of the Middle East. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront Mutrah Corniche, with the brilliant blue sea on one side, eastern-style white buildings lining the street on the other and the arid Hajar mountains in the background.

Khasab is a port city on northern Oman's Musandam Peninsula. Khasab Fort has crenellated stone turrets, model wooden boats and a museum with handicrafts and archaeological finds. From Khasab Harbor, wooden boats cruise the Strait of Hormuz, offering rugged coastal views and dolphin sightings. South, past mountain villages and green valleys, Jabal Hareem peak is known for its marine fossils.

Once a small fishing village, the capital of the United Arab Emirates today is one of the worlds most modern, cosmopolitan city. Cruise to Abu Dhabi and visit the Heritage Village to step back in time to a pre-oil desert lifestyle. Admire the fascinating museum exhibits, explore the Bedouin encampment and browse the small shops in the rebuilt traditional souq village. Next, relax on the sandy Saadiyat or Yas public beach and take a dip in the warm, turquoise sea water. End your visit with a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an architectural marvel with gold-plated chandeliers and the worlds largest hand-woven carpet.

A taxi from the airport to the port or the center takes around 30 minutes. For an overview of this sprawling city, ascend the Burj Khalifa, the tallest structure in the world. Cruise from Dubai to step back in time in the Al Fahidi Historical District, and visit the Dubai Museum to learn about the fast evolution from fishing and pearling village to a global center of commerce, finance and tourism.