Itinerary

Day 1 Nov 4, 2028 Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Departs 19:00 Your MSC cruise will take you to Tokyo, symbol of Japanese modernity and traditions. Located on the island of Honshū, this metropolis has almost 14 million inhabitants and is the capital of Japan. It is a multifaceted city, with futuristic buildings and skyscrapers, historical and religious monuments, ancient districts and lush parks. Not to mention art, music, design, shopping and theatre. This city has everything, so much so, that it is impossible to see it all. MSC offers a few excursions to give you the possibility to focus your visit on the places that you should really see. Like the historic district of Asakusa, named after a guard of the city of Tokyo, famous for the Sensō-ji Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. You can also take an excursion to marvel at modern Tokyo, starting from the famous district of Shibuya and the Shibuya crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, where six major roads converge. Moving on, you can lose yourself in the city’s many state-of-the-art buildings, like the Sumida Hokusai Museum, the experimental architecture in Ginza or the almost 300-feet high Ao Building. Strolling along the Sumida River, which flows through the city, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wonders of Tokyo. There is an excursion that will take you to the most important of the many museums in this metropolis, like the Tokyo National Museum, which houses artistic and archaeological finds, the MairaKan, a permanent exhibition of emerging science and innovation, or the Edo Tokyo Open Air Museum, which preserves the city’s architectural heritage. The National Art Center in Roppongi ‒ part of the Roppongi Art Triangle together with the Mori Art Museum and the Suntory Museum of Art ‒ is an absolute must. The district of Roppongi itself is also well worth a visit: with its Tokyo Tower, it is a city within a city, full of restaurants, clubs, bars and shops for a shopping spree. Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan port guide Search cruises visiting Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan photo — Day 1 Nov 4, 2028 Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Departs 19:00 Your MSC cruise will take you to Tokyo, symbol of Japanese modernity and traditions. Located on the island of Honshū, this metropolis has almost 14 million inhabitants and is the capital of Japan. It is a multifaceted city, with futuristic buildings and skyscrapers, historical and religious monuments, ancient districts and lush parks. Not to mention art, music, design, shopping and theatre. This city has everything, so much so, that it is impossible to see it all. MSC offers a few excursions to give you the possibility to focus your visit on the places that you should really see. Like the historic district of Asakusa, named after a guard of the city of Tokyo, famous for the Sensō-ji Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. You can also take an excursion to marvel at modern Tokyo, starting from the famous district of Shibuya and the Shibuya crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, where six major roads converge. Moving on, you can lose yourself in the city’s many state-of-the-art buildings, like the Sumida Hokusai Museum, the experimental architecture in Ginza or the almost 300-feet high Ao Building. Strolling along the Sumida River, which flows through the city, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wonders of Tokyo. There is an excursion that will take you to the most important of the many museums in this metropolis, like the Tokyo National Museum, which houses artistic and archaeological finds, the MairaKan, a permanent exhibition of emerging science and innovation, or the Edo Tokyo Open Air Museum, which preserves the city’s architectural heritage. The National Art Center in Roppongi ‒ part of the Roppongi Art Triangle together with the Mori Art Museum and the Suntory Museum of Art ‒ is an absolute must. The district of Roppongi itself is also well worth a visit: with its Tokyo Tower, it is a city within a city, full of restaurants, clubs, bars and shops for a shopping spree. Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan port guide Search cruises visiting Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Day 2 Nov 5, 2028 Shimiju, japan 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Feel your heart thumping, at your first sight of Japan’s most heavenly vision - Mount Fuji’s cone emerging through the haze. With its summit dipped in pure white snow, the iconic volcano’s cone is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world - and a picturesque backdrop for Shimizu. View less Come ashore to this serene vision of beauty – and whether you head straight for the siren-call of the volcano’s slopes, or the sanctuary of gorgeous, heritage-rich shrines, and tranquil tea plantations - spine-tingling views of Japan’s most tallest mountain are never far away. A perfectly symmetrical spectacle, visible for miles around, Mount Fuji is an adored national symbol of Japan. Travel closer to its slopes to soak in some of the country’s finest panoramas. Or take in the views with a dash of local culture, at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine – an elegant shrine, that stands in thrall to the salt and pepper volcano close by. The Shiraito Waterfall World Heritage Site flows just beneath the volcano – visit to see the gloriously wide curtain of water gushing through the thick vegetation. Visit Kunozan Toshogu Shrine for another perspective, or to soak up the tranquil site before swinging above on a scenic ropeway. Located on the adjacent Mount Kuno – privileged views of the mountain and Suruga Bay will unroll before you. Nihondaira Plateau is another option, where you can soak in panoramic views of the bay and Mount Fuji dominating behind. However you choose to experience it, Shimizu welcomes you into the heart of Japan, to absorb the mesmerising panoramas of the country’s most famous sight. Shimiju, japan

Day 4 Nov 7, 2028 Kobe 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore The Japanese city of Kobe needs no introduction. The name is synonymous with its home grown superstar. We are not talking of its stunning shrines, cherry trees laden with blossom during sakura or effervescent city, buzzing with life 24/7. We are of course talking of a much more grass roots hero – its eponymous beef. The delicacy might have put the city on the map, but there is far more to Kobe than its meat. Naturally, Kobe wears its cuisine as a badge of honour. View less Its port history has given it a gastronomy that is quite different from its neighbours. Seafood and sushi is naturally some of the freshest and most diverse you can find, but Kobe’s multi-cultural nature (the city is home to 98 different nationalities) means that it has one of the most diverse gastronomic cultures in Japan. Bread and bakeries are also an (unexpected) delicacy. Additionally, Sake is taken very seriously – Kobe even has its own museum dedicated to the national spirit. Historically, Kobe has always been a key city for Japan. Renamed in 1889, it was known as Owada no Tomari during the Nara Period (710-784 C.E.). Kobe’s location on the calm Inland Sea between Osaka and Kyoto has proven to be pivotal in Japanese history; it is mentioned in famous literary works such as The Tale of Genji (from approximately late 9th century) and the Taiheiki (14th century). The city and region are home to many attractions including the Himeji Castle (widely considered to be Japan's most beautiful feudal castle), a short ride away. Kobe

Day 5 Nov 8, 2028 Kochi, Japan 07:00 – 15:00 8.0 hrs ashore An MSC cruise will take you to Kochi, situated in the prefecture of the same name, on the island of Shikoku. You can visit Kochi castle on an excursion; it is one of the twelve Japanese castles to have survived fires, wars and other catastrophes of the post-feudal age. It was built between 1601 and 1611. What you can see of the building today however, dates back to 1748, the year in which the castle was rebuilt after a fire. Curiosity: its main tower was not used only for military purposes, but it was also the residence of noble families. Quite unusual, since the nobility would usually reside in other parts of the castle. The wooden interior is typical of the traditional style of the Edo period. Near Kochi harbour is the picturesque beach of Katsurahama. In the local restaurants you can eat Katsuo, a type of tuna which is typical to Japanese waters, cut into slices and lightly grilled on straw fuelled fire which gives it a slightly smoky flavour. Seventy kilometres from Kochi there is an unusual tourist attraction, the ancient Kazurabashi Bridge, 45 meters wide and 2 metres wide, it stretches 14 metres above the waters of the river Iya. Today, the bridge – which is made from Actinidia arguta wood, a kind of vine similar to a kiwi plant – is reinforced with steel wires. It should not be missed for the surrounding landscape and the brief but thrilling walk it offers. Closer to Kochi is the wonderful Oboke gorge: we cross the river Yoshino on a boat and marvel at how over hundreds of millions of years the river has eroded the rocks of the Shikoku mountains shaping the stone into bizarre shapes. Kochi, Japan

Day 6 Nov 9, 2028 Hiroshima 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Hiroshima means “wide island” in Japanese. The city was established in the 16th Century on Japan’s largest island, Honshu, and grew into an important shipping center and prefecture capital, boasting a fine castle. Although it was an important city in Japan throughout the imperial period, its reputation in the greater world was burned into history when it became to target of the first atomic bombing of a civilian target in August of 1945. The United States airplane Enola Gay dropped a nuclear device nicknamed “Little Boy” on the city that morning, obliterating everything within a two-kilometer radius and directly killing 80,000 people. Approximately 70 percent of Hiroshima’s buildings were destroyed. Within a year, injury and radiation illness had killed an additional 90, 000 to 116,000 citizens. The attacks on Hiroshima and nearby Nagasaki quickly led to the surrender of Japan and effectively precipitated the end of World War II in Asia. Within a few years, Hiroshima had begun to rebuild, and the city became the focus of an international movement to eliminate nuclear weapons from future wars. Relics of its past such as the impressive Hiroshima Castle and the tranquil Shukkeien Garden were rebuilt, and the city undertook the construction of a Memorial Peace Park, which today attracts visitors from around the world. The park, which holds a museum and a memorial “Atomic Dome” constructed on the closest remaining building to the blast site, is a moving and impactful place of pilgrimage in this re-born City of Peace. One notable feature is a colorful memorial to Sadako Sasaki, a young woman whose dying wishes for world peace were recounted in the story A Thousand Paper Cranes. Hiroshima Hiroshima port guide Search cruises visiting Hiroshima

Hiroshima photo — Day 6 Nov 9, 2028 Hiroshima 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Hiroshima means “wide island” in Japanese. The city was established in the 16th Century on Japan’s largest island, Honshu, and grew into an important shipping center and prefecture capital, boasting a fine castle. Although it was an important city in Japan throughout the imperial period, its reputation in the greater world was burned into history when it became to target of the first atomic bombing of a civilian target in August of 1945. The United States airplane Enola Gay dropped a nuclear device nicknamed “Little Boy” on the city that morning, obliterating everything within a two-kilometer radius and directly killing 80,000 people. Approximately 70 percent of Hiroshima’s buildings were destroyed. Within a year, injury and radiation illness had killed an additional 90, 000 to 116,000 citizens. The attacks on Hiroshima and nearby Nagasaki quickly led to the surrender of Japan and effectively precipitated the end of World War II in Asia. Within a few years, Hiroshima had begun to rebuild, and the city became the focus of an international movement to eliminate nuclear weapons from future wars. Relics of its past such as the impressive Hiroshima Castle and the tranquil Shukkeien Garden were rebuilt, and the city undertook the construction of a Memorial Peace Park, which today attracts visitors from around the world. The park, which holds a museum and a memorial “Atomic Dome” constructed on the closest remaining building to the blast site, is a moving and impactful place of pilgrimage in this re-born City of Peace. One notable feature is a colorful memorial to Sadako Sasaki, a young woman whose dying wishes for world peace were recounted in the story A Thousand Paper Cranes. Hiroshima Hiroshima port guide Search cruises visiting Hiroshima

Day 7 Nov 10, 2028 Beppu 07:00 – 19:00 12.0 hrs ashore The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells”, is a town that’s prettier than a picture. The town is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens). The viewing pools have evocative names; think Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell and Tornado Hell. While the names might seem a little off putting, the reality is stunning; sulphur laced air and vast spectrums of blues and reds, depending on the mineralisation of the earth. As if the gorgeous palette of colours at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu’s most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots. If not lucky enough to be in the area during Sakura, from May to June rhododendrons colour the mountain. The view from this 1,375m mountain is beyond impressive, allowing you to see all the way to the Kuju Mountains, Chugoku and Shikoku. If brave enough to climb all the way to the top, the stone Buddhas that were carved into the mountainside during the Heian Period (794-1185) are a worthy reward! As with much of Japan, duality is ever present. Modernity sits very comfortably by ancient buildings. While Beppu’s biggest pull is by far the hot springs and the thermal baths, nearby (10 km) Yufuin has a wealth of art museums, cafes and boutiques, catering to trend setters and urbanites alike. Beppu

Day 8 Nov 11, 2028 Busan, South Korea 11:00 – 18:00 7.0 hrs ashore "A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colours, intense seafood flavours, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious natural setting on the Korean Peninsula's south-east. One of the largest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million people call South Korea's second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook. A spacious, playful and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, liveable city, cradled by lush mountains and endless ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple's multi-storey pagoda is adorned with lions - each representing a different emotion. Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees, into a colourful explosion of creativity and curiosity. Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for expression. Lose yourself among vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow and baby-blue painted facades in this unique area. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef and rice, from street food vendors, before relaxing on one of South Korea's best beaches - Haeundae's banana bend of sand. Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder and are mirrored by elaborate sandcastles and sculptures during the annual sand festival - when spontaneous water fights and firework displays also take place. Gwangalli beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge - the country's second largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this engineering marvel in colour." Busan, South Korea Busan, South Korea port guide Search cruises visiting Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea photo — Day 8 Nov 11, 2028 Busan, South Korea 11:00 – 18:00 7.0 hrs ashore "A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colours, intense seafood flavours, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious natural setting on the Korean Peninsula's south-east. One of the largest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million people call South Korea's second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook. A spacious, playful and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, liveable city, cradled by lush mountains and endless ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple's multi-storey pagoda is adorned with lions - each representing a different emotion. Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees, into a colourful explosion of creativity and curiosity. Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for expression. Lose yourself among vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow and baby-blue painted facades in this unique area. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef and rice, from street food vendors, before relaxing on one of South Korea's best beaches - Haeundae's banana bend of sand. Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder and are mirrored by elaborate sandcastles and sculptures during the annual sand festival - when spontaneous water fights and firework displays also take place. Gwangalli beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge - the country's second largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this engineering marvel in colour." Busan, South Korea Busan, South Korea port guide Search cruises visiting Busan, South Korea

Day 9 Nov 12, 2028 Hakata 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Since 1889, the old port of Hakata has been part of Fukuoka city, the major commercial center of Northern Kyushu. This region is perhaps the oldest settled area in Japan, and for centuries Hakata served as Japan's cultural and commercial gateway with China and Korean. The twin cities played another major role in Japanese history - it was here that Kublai Khan launched his two invasions of Japan in the 13th century. Two anchor stones from the great Mongol fleet destroyed by the famous typhoon or Kamikaze are still on display at Hakata's 8th century Kushida Shrine. Beyond the hustle and bustle of today's modern metropolis, visitor will still discover and enjoy the serenity of ancient shrines, superb formal gardens, and a duo of fascinating museums. When Hakata and Fukuoka merged in 1889, the combined metropolis was to be named Hakata. Until a group of disaffected samurai from Fukuoka - an important castle town in feudal times - intervened to ensure the new city's name honored their old home. Hakata

Day 10 Nov 13, 2028 Nagasaki 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore In Japan’s third-largest island – Kyushu – an MSC cruise will help you discover the city of Nagasaki. Gathered in the tucks and crevices of steep hills rising from a long, narrow harbour, and spreading its tentacles along several tributary valleys, Nagasaki is one of Japan’s more picturesque cities, and one of the most popular with international visitors. This appeal is furthered by an easy-going attitude and an unusually cosmopolitan culture, resulting from over two centuries of contact with foreigners when the rest of Japan was all but closed to the world. On an excursion you can visit GloverGarden, as well as offering some of Nagasaki’s best views, it features seven late nineteenth-century, European-style buildings, each typically colonial with wide verandas, louvred shutters and high-ceilinged, spacious rooms. The houses also contain odds and ends of furniture and evocative photos of the pioneering inhabitants they once housed. The best approach is to take the“SkyRoad”up to the garden’s upper entrance and work down. Glover’s house, the oldest Western-style building in Japan, is worth a look around, as are those formerly belonging to Frederick Ringer, founder of the Nagasaki Press, and tea merchant William Alt. The exit from Glover Garden takes you through the Museum of Traditional Performing Arts, which displays the beautifully fashioned floats and other paraphernalia used during the Kunchi festivities. Nagasaki is not short of good viewpoints, but none can compare with the spectacular panorama from Inasa-yama, a 333m-high hill to the west of the city. A ropeway, or cable-car, whisks you up there in just five minutes. From the top, you get stunning views of the contorted local coastline, as well as the confetti of nearby islands and islets. Nagasaki Nagasaki port guide Search cruises visiting Nagasaki

Nagasaki photo — Day 10 Nov 13, 2028 Nagasaki 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore In Japan’s third-largest island – Kyushu – an MSC cruise will help you discover the city of Nagasaki. Gathered in the tucks and crevices of steep hills rising from a long, narrow harbour, and spreading its tentacles along several tributary valleys, Nagasaki is one of Japan’s more picturesque cities, and one of the most popular with international visitors. This appeal is furthered by an easy-going attitude and an unusually cosmopolitan culture, resulting from over two centuries of contact with foreigners when the rest of Japan was all but closed to the world. On an excursion you can visit GloverGarden, as well as offering some of Nagasaki’s best views, it features seven late nineteenth-century, European-style buildings, each typically colonial with wide verandas, louvred shutters and high-ceilinged, spacious rooms. The houses also contain odds and ends of furniture and evocative photos of the pioneering inhabitants they once housed. The best approach is to take the“SkyRoad”up to the garden’s upper entrance and work down. Glover’s house, the oldest Western-style building in Japan, is worth a look around, as are those formerly belonging to Frederick Ringer, founder of the Nagasaki Press, and tea merchant William Alt. The exit from Glover Garden takes you through the Museum of Traditional Performing Arts, which displays the beautifully fashioned floats and other paraphernalia used during the Kunchi festivities. Nagasaki is not short of good viewpoints, but none can compare with the spectacular panorama from Inasa-yama, a 333m-high hill to the west of the city. A ropeway, or cable-car, whisks you up there in just five minutes. From the top, you get stunning views of the contorted local coastline, as well as the confetti of nearby islands and islets. Nagasaki Nagasaki port guide Search cruises visiting Nagasaki

Day 12 Nov 15, 2028 Incheon 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The bright lights of neighbouring big city Seoul might burn brightly but Incheon, just 27 kilometres away, has nothing to be ashamed of. The coastal city was the first to open its borders to the world in 1883, and as such has always enjoyed a special relationship with the west. So much so that it was granted “English Status” in 2007, with many residents priding themselves on their command of the language. View less The city’s love of English has made it a business powerhouse so expect soaring skyscrapers and smart technology as part of the landscape. Incheon was also the first to welcome the Chinese and today the city’s Chinatown is one of the most vibrant and welcoming there is. A frenetic and exciting hybrid of Chinese and Korean heritage, it is said that Jjajangmyeon (black soy bean noodles), South Korea’s de facto national dish originates from here. Try a steaming bowl from one of the many vendors, then walk it off with the short 15-minute stroll from Chinatown to the traditional Sinpo Market for different kind of sensational feast. The city is steeped in history, notably in recent times during the Korean War. In 1950, the US general General MacArthur led UN forces behind enemy lines in freeing the city from North Korean pressure. MacArthur’s victory is commemorated by a statue in the Jaya (Freedom) Park. The city’s history of course goes back much further, with the first historical record dating as far back as 475 CE. At the time the city was called Michuhol, only changing its name to Incheon in 1413. Incheon

Day 14 Nov 17, 2028 Jeju 07:00 – 19:00 12.0 hrs ashore Jeju-do lying off the south coast of Korea is the warmest and wettest place in the entire country. The island is at its most beautiful in spring when the azalea blooms in a riot of delicate colours and the wooded areas display the most fascinating shades of green. In Jeju the seasons determine the changing hues of color through the island. In the autumn the color that dominates is brown and orange due to the falling leaves, in summer the aqua blue waters of the sea and golden beaches take over as in spring the brilliant yellow flowers cover the landscape. Jeju Island, also known as the "Island of the Gods," is a popular vacation spot for Koreans and many Japanese. It remains one of the top honeymoon destinations for Korean newlyweds. The island's mixture of volcanic rock, frequent rains, and temperate climate, make it very similar to the Hawaiian Islands in the U.S. The island offers visitors a wide range of activities: hiking on Halla-san (South Korea's highest peak), catching sunrises and sunsets over the ocean, viewing majestic waterfalls, riding horses, or just lying around on the sandy beaches. One of the most outstanding features of the island is a regular maze of tunnels, caves and pillars formed by the cooling of lava flows from ancient volcanoes. Jeju-do is basically an island composed of extinct volcanoes formed by volcanic matter such as basalt and trachyte and layered with sedimentary rock. It still has a volcano- an extinct one, called Mt Hallasan, which, at 1950 m also doubles up as the island's main mountain. The main city on the island is Jeju City, the main base for trekking, sightseeing and exploring the rest of the island. Jeju

Baoshan (Shanghai) photo — Day 16 Nov 19, 2028 Baoshan (Shanghai) Arrives 07:00 When your MSC cruise brings you to Shanghai it is easy to understand that after years of stagnation, this great metropolis is undergoing one of the fastest economic expansions the world has ever seen. As Shanghai begins to recapture its position as East Asia’s leading business city, a status it last held before World War II, the skyline is filling with high-rises – there are well over a thousand now. Gleaming shopping malls, luxurious hotels and prestigious arts centres are rising alongside, while underneath everything snakes the world’s longest subway system. Shanghai’s 23 million residents enjoy the highest incomes on the mainland, and there’s plenty for them to splash out on; witness the rash of celebrity restaurants and designer flagship stores. MSC Grand Voyages cruises also offer excursions to the Bund – Shanghai’s original signature skyline –, a strip of grand Neoclassical colonial edifices on the west bank of the Huangpu River Pudong on the opposite shore – a backdrop domestic visitors queue up against to have their picture taken. Named after an old Anglo-Indian term, “bunding” (the embanking of a muddy foreshore), the Bund’s official name is Zhongshan Lu but it’s better known among locals as Wai Tan (literally “Outside Beach”). By whatever name, this was old Shanghai’s commercial heart, with the river on one side and the offices of the leading bank and trading houses on the other. Jinmao Tower is a beautiful building, an elegant tapering postmodern take on Art Deco, has an observation deck on the 88th floor. An ear-popping lift whisks you up 340m to the top in a matter of seconds. The spectacle of the city spread out before you is of course sublime, but turn round for a giddying view down the building’s glorious galleried atrium. Shanghai Museum is one of the city’s highlights, with a fantastic, well-presented collection. Baoshan (Shanghai) Baoshan (Shanghai) port guide Search cruises visiting Baoshan (Shanghai)

Day 17 Nov 20, 2028 Baoshan (Shanghai) Departs 18:00 When your MSC cruise brings you to Shanghai it is easy to understand that after years of stagnation, this great metropolis is undergoing one of the fastest economic expansions the world has ever seen. As Shanghai begins to recapture its position as East Asia’s leading business city, a status it last held before World War II, the skyline is filling with high-rises – there are well over a thousand now. Gleaming shopping malls, luxurious hotels and prestigious arts centres are rising alongside, while underneath everything snakes the world’s longest subway system. Shanghai’s 23 million residents enjoy the highest incomes on the mainland, and there’s plenty for them to splash out on; witness the rash of celebrity restaurants and designer flagship stores. MSC Grand Voyages cruises also offer excursions to the Bund – Shanghai’s original signature skyline –, a strip of grand Neoclassical colonial edifices on the west bank of the Huangpu River Pudong on the opposite shore – a backdrop domestic visitors queue up against to have their picture taken. Named after an old Anglo-Indian term, “bunding” (the embanking of a muddy foreshore), the Bund’s official name is Zhongshan Lu but it’s better known among locals as Wai Tan (literally “Outside Beach”). By whatever name, this was old Shanghai’s commercial heart, with the river on one side and the offices of the leading bank and trading houses on the other. Jinmao Tower is a beautiful building, an elegant tapering postmodern take on Art Deco, has an observation deck on the 88th floor. An ear-popping lift whisks you up 340m to the top in a matter of seconds. The spectacle of the city spread out before you is of course sublime, but turn round for a giddying view down the building’s glorious galleried atrium. Shanghai Museum is one of the city’s highlights, with a fantastic, well-presented collection. Baoshan (Shanghai)

Day 19 Nov 22, 2028 Naha (Okinawa Is.) 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore The sophistication, elegance and ages-old culture of Japan. On an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise, you can discover the ancient beauty of the Okinawa islands. Belonging to the archipelago of Ryūkyū, their capital is Naha. There are many attractions and monuments that can be visited. These include the Ryukyumura village and the UNESCO World Heritage site: Shikinaen Garden, where you can admire the characteristic wooden buildings with red tile roofs that overlook an artificial lake and vegetation that inspire meditation and peace. Peace Memorial Park has a great emotional impact: near the end of World War II, Okinawa was the scene of a bloody battle between Japan and the US, which killed about 200,000 people, more than half of which were civilians. The shopping and restaurant street in Naha isKokusai : two kilometers of bars, cafes, hotels and boutiques where you can linger and enjoy yourself sipping awamori , a typical liqueur from the island served with ice. The capital is also home to the museum of the former underground headquarters of the Japanese Navy and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum , where you can discover the history and culture of Okinawa. To understand how the inhabitants lived, you can also visit Ryukyumura Village , a small theme park that recreates a village where craftsmen shape pottery, weave clothing and blankets and where musicians play the sanshin guitar. Located in front of the East China Sea, the cliff of Cape Manzamou is a true natural sculpture shaped by the ocean: a part of it looks like the trunk of an elephant. It is impossible to leave without taking a photograph. Naha (Okinawa Is.)

Day 20 Nov 23, 2028 Ishigaki Island 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore Talk with the Japanese a while about the Japanese and you’re going to hear the word shimagunikonjo. The breakdown is simple: shima—island; guni—nation; konjo—consciousness. In one word, it's the firm belief that people who live on islands are different from people who live on continents, and anyone who’s done both is likely to agree. American culture may be the strongest influence in Japan now, but the Japanese will understand the motivations of the Brits a whole lot better. Islands require a different mind-set than continents. Islands require manners. But what if your island was never meant to be part of another bunch of islands? That’s what’s happened with today’s Okinawa Prefecture. The people who’ve always been there are Okinawan, one of the healthiest, longest-living people on earth. But now they’re part of Japan and seriously outnumbered by the Japanese. (And they’re not at all happy that the Japanese interlopers gave so much of their land over to U.S. military bases.) Signs of Okinawan culture can be subtle but are easier to pick out in more remote islands of the chain, like Ishigaki. Traditional buildings are a mixture of Chinese and Japanese influences. In the markets, you’ll find fu chanpuru (an Okinawan stir fry dish) and whole-wheat soba, which the Japanese won't touch. The ryuso robe holds on despite crowded kimono stores. The few people left who speak Uchinaguchi are praying for a movement like the Hawaiian renaissance to bring the culture back. The tipping point is close. A trip to Ishigaki now is to witness either the beginning or the end. Ishigaki Island

Day 21 Nov 24, 2028 Keelung, Taiwan 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore With over 2,600,000 inhabitants, Taipei is the largest city on the island of Taiwan and its capital. It represents the fulcrum of the country: the headquarters of the government is located here and it is the cultural and commercial center of Taiwan. An MSC Cruise will take you inside this crossroads of Japanese and Chinese cultures, where the ancient and modern coexist with no distinction. One of the symbols of the city is the Taipei 101 Tower, named for the fact that there are 101 floors. First known as the Taipei World Financial Center, it is located in the Xinyi district. Reachable on an MSC excursion, this singular construction, built in 2004, is bamboo-shaped and its 509 meters in height made it the the tallest building in the world in 2004: today, it is in fifth place; first place is held by Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is also one of the destinations that can be reached with an excursion: a white building with a blue octagonal roof, whose colors also reflect the national flag, it is a symbol of freedom, equality and brotherhood. Consisting of 89 steps, one for each year of the leader's life, it is surrounded by Chinese-style gardens and buildings housing examples of Taiwanese culture. Considered one of the most important monuments of the 20th century, the Memorial Hall tells the story of the head of the Chinese nationalist government which was in charge from 1950 to 1975; the hall opened in 1980. More than 700 thousand pieces representing 8,000 years of Chinese history and art from the Neolithic to the present day are exhibited in the National Palace Museum which can be visited on an MSC excursion. The museum was once located inside the walls of the Forbidden City of Beijing. In 1949, it was moved to the Shilin district in Taipei, into the current building, after the government of the Republic of China was also transferred. Keelung, Taiwan

Day 22 Nov 25, 2028 Kaohsiung 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore Adorned with huge public artworks and thrumming night markets, Kaohsiung is the perfect introduction to energetic Taiwan. The busy harbour of the country's third-biggest city fuelled rapid growth here, and while it's vast in scale, Kaohsiung has wide and airy boulevards - interspersed with parks where fountains fire water high into the sky. Filled with cultural splendour – you can visit soaring temples lit by softly glowing lanterns, and taste exotic street foods as you fall for this city, which is dissected by the Love River. View less The vividly coloured Dragon and Tiger Pagodas soar into the sky above the blooming flowers of Lotus Lake, promising visitors good luck – on the proviso that they enter through the dragon's mouth and leave via the tiger. The good fortune kicks in instantly, as you emerge to see the zigzagging path that leads to the Pei Chi Pavilion. Rows of long fishing rods lean out over the walls of Cijin Island, while the fruits of the ocean are served up amid a sensory overload of neon lights, and swells of people, in Liuhe night market. Try sea snails and lobster, before cooling off from Taiwan's heat with some shaved ice - flavoured with a sweet banana kick. Central Park is a green and spacious escape in the heart of Kaohsiung, while primates scamper through the airy forested mountain trails of Shou-Shan Mountain behind the city. Elsewhere, you can take the short hop out of the city to Fo Guang Shan Monastery, where a troupe of eight pagodas will lead you on the walk up to the humungous buddha which glints on top of the striking temple. Kaohsiung

Day 24 Nov 27, 2028 Hong Kong, China 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore A spectacular, serrated skyline of soaring towers and neon lights, Hong Kong is a vibrant, immersive metropolis and cultural hub. Dramatic harbour-front light shows transform the waterfront’s gleaming buildings into a colourful canvas – best seen from the Star Ferry, when the Symphony of Lights blares into life each evening. A city where future and tradition collides - perhaps best illustrated by the skyscrapers that feature gaping holes, designed to allow spirit dragons to soar from the hills to the waterfront unimpeded. View less Wander flowing shopping streets, wade through sprawling markets and soak up the neon glory of this one-of-a-kind city - which continues to reach for the sky. Hong Kong's dense jumble of activity is one of its main appeals, but once you've felt the thrill of rising to towering observation decks, to see the soaring city from above, it's surprisingly easy to find peace among Hong Kong's intense urban wonders. Victoria Peak is the highest point and it offers staggering views down over the city and harbour. The Peak Tram funicular can ferry you to the top, to the vantage point which was historically adored by the rich for the cooler air found here, away from the busy bustle of the city streets. Many elaborate temples add a tranquil element to Hong Kong’s whirr, and Tin Hau temple has a surprisingly urban location, considering its dedication to the Goddess of the Sea. It did once occupy the shorefront, but the city's growth saw land reclaimed from the sea around it, leaving the temple marooned inland. Having been leased to the British for 99 years, milky tea is a revered tradition here - enjoy your cup with a serving of local dim sum.While it's easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of today's Hong Kong, you need only walk or board a tram for the short jaunt west into Western to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditionally Chinese but no less high-energy. You'll discover the real Hong Kong to the east of Central, too, in Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and beyond. Amid the residential towers are restaurants, shopping malls, bars, convention centers, a nice smattering of museums, and—depending on fate and the horse you wager on—one of Hong Kong's luckiest or unluckiest spots, the Happy Valley Racecourse. Kowloon sprawls across a generous swath of the Chinese mainland across Victoria Harbour from Central. Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, is packed with glitzy shops, first-rate museums, and eye-popping views of the skyline across the water. Just to the north are the teeming market streets of Mong Kok and in the dense residential neighborhoods beyond, two of Hong Kong's most enchanting spiritual sights, Wong Tai Sin Temple and Chi Lin Nunnery. As you navigate this huge metropolis (easy to do on the excellent transportation network), keep in mind that streets are usually numbered odd on one side, even on the other. There's no baseline for street numbers and no block-based numbering system, but street signs indicate building numbers for any given block. Hong Kong, China Hong Kong, China port guide Search cruises visiting Hong Kong, China

Day 26 Nov 29, 2028 Ha Long Bay 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore The extraordinary, mossy limestone mountains that rear from the waters of Ha Long Bay form one of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the planet. At least 1,600 green islands rise over a flotilla of strung-together fishing boats and floating villages. Spectacular at any time, sunset bathes the remarkable limestone formations in warm, honey-coloured light, adding an extra layer to the seascape's heart-stirring beauty. Emerald green sea washes around this immense network of islands and limestone outcrops, which you can explore at leisure on junk boats and by sea kayak. View less Local legend says the islands were formed when a dragon descended, spitting fire and emerald and jade jewels across the water to deter invaders. The sheer scale points to the supernatural – but scientists stubbornly maintain that this collection of towering sculptures was the result of various forms of erosion and a flood of seawater following the ice age. The water continues to chip away at the islands, and you can venture into the mouths of caves hollowed out by the relentless wash of the waves. Dau Go Cave and Sung Sot Caves are adorned with rows of spectacular stalactites, descending like dragon teeth from above. Investigate via boat, and find island jewels like Ti Top - a sharp, slope of land decorated with a crisp fringe of gleaming sand. The seaplanes that soar overhead, offer a magnificent bird's eye perspective. Located in Vietnam's northeast, the unique topography that forms the islands continues into neighbouring national parks like Cat Ba - which rises and falls in a similar, jaggedly undulating fashion, just without the flooded seawater in-between. Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay port guide Search cruises visiting Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay photo — Day 26 Nov 29, 2028 Ha Long Bay 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore The extraordinary, mossy limestone mountains that rear from the waters of Ha Long Bay form one of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the planet. At least 1,600 green islands rise over a flotilla of strung-together fishing boats and floating villages. Spectacular at any time, sunset bathes the remarkable limestone formations in warm, honey-coloured light, adding an extra layer to the seascape's heart-stirring beauty. Emerald green sea washes around this immense network of islands and limestone outcrops, which you can explore at leisure on junk boats and by sea kayak. View less Local legend says the islands were formed when a dragon descended, spitting fire and emerald and jade jewels across the water to deter invaders. The sheer scale points to the supernatural – but scientists stubbornly maintain that this collection of towering sculptures was the result of various forms of erosion and a flood of seawater following the ice age. The water continues to chip away at the islands, and you can venture into the mouths of caves hollowed out by the relentless wash of the waves. Dau Go Cave and Sung Sot Caves are adorned with rows of spectacular stalactites, descending like dragon teeth from above. Investigate via boat, and find island jewels like Ti Top - a sharp, slope of land decorated with a crisp fringe of gleaming sand. The seaplanes that soar overhead, offer a magnificent bird's eye perspective. Located in Vietnam's northeast, the unique topography that forms the islands continues into neighbouring national parks like Cat Ba - which rises and falls in a similar, jaggedly undulating fashion, just without the flooded seawater in-between. Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay port guide Search cruises visiting Ha Long Bay

Day 32 Dec 5, 2028 Laem Chabang Departs 18:00 Laem Chabang is the starting point of an exploration of Bangkok with an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise. Located in Chonburi province, it is the most important industrial port of Thailand, and is the gateway to reach Bangkok from the sea. With an MSC cruise, you will visit the capital of Thailand and its main attractions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is rich in history and culture. There are many places and monuments to visit. These include the Royal Grand Palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty where you can also find the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of rare beauty made from a single piece of jade. At the Buddhist temple of Wat Po can be found the huge reclining Buddha, a good 46 meters long and 15 meters high. At Wat Po, the place where Thai therapeutic massage was invented, the pagodas are also not to be missed: Phrang Rabieng in white marble and Phra Maha Chedi with delicate and colorful floral patterns. The visit continues in the heart of the city: a journey on a typical boat through the canals – it is not surprising that Bangkok is called the "Venice of the East" – lined by the houses of this picturesque capital city to get to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its very high tower reminiscent of an Aztec elongated pyramid. An experience to be lived, on an MSC cruise, is to savor up-close the atmosphere of the Klongsuan market, where Buddhists and Muslims live and work together in harmony and where you can discover the traditions and customs of the people. The journey continues to Chachoengsao, the city where Sothon Wat can be found, the temple that houses the much venerated effigy of the Buddha: the Phra Phutthasothon. Finally, you arrive at the Bang Pa-In, the Summer Palace, consisting of five majestic buildings not to be missed. There is a Thai-style pavilion, built in the middle of an artificial lake, a two-story European-style pavilion, a residential pavilion, a Chinese-style pavilion and an observatory located on a small island. Laem Chabang

Day 33 Dec 6, 2028 Laem Chabang Departs 16:00 Laem Chabang is the starting point of an exploration of Bangkok with an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise. Located in Chonburi province, it is the most important industrial port of Thailand, and is the gateway to reach Bangkok from the sea. With an MSC cruise, you will visit the capital of Thailand and its main attractions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is rich in history and culture. There are many places and monuments to visit. These include the Royal Grand Palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty where you can also find the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of rare beauty made from a single piece of jade. At the Buddhist temple of Wat Po can be found the huge reclining Buddha, a good 46 meters long and 15 meters high. At Wat Po, the place where Thai therapeutic massage was invented, the pagodas are also not to be missed: Phrang Rabieng in white marble and Phra Maha Chedi with delicate and colorful floral patterns. The visit continues in the heart of the city: a journey on a typical boat through the canals – it is not surprising that Bangkok is called the "Venice of the East" – lined by the houses of this picturesque capital city to get to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its very high tower reminiscent of an Aztec elongated pyramid. An experience to be lived, on an MSC cruise, is to savor up-close the atmosphere of the Klongsuan market, where Buddhists and Muslims live and work together in harmony and where you can discover the traditions and customs of the people. The journey continues to Chachoengsao, the city where Sothon Wat can be found, the temple that houses the much venerated effigy of the Buddha: the Phra Phutthasothon. Finally, you arrive at the Bang Pa-In, the Summer Palace, consisting of five majestic buildings not to be missed. There is a Thai-style pavilion, built in the middle of an artificial lake, a two-story European-style pavilion, a residential pavilion, a Chinese-style pavilion and an observatory located on a small island. Laem Chabang

Day 34 Dec 7, 2028 Ko Samui Koh Samui is an island of towering coconut trees, brilliant sunshine and beautiful white sand beaches. One of the three largest islands in Thailand, it is easy to forget the world in this paradise. On the south end of the island, the strange rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Ya are said to be the physical embodiment of a couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay. First settled by Malay fishermen, the island is rich with legends and tales like this one. The Big Buddha on the island's Northern shore is a popular attraction and an important symbol for the locals. Visit one of the world's most stunning waterfalls, Na Muang - or enjoy the simple beauty of rare butterflies, insects and bees at the Na Tian Butterfly Garden. Or you may want to watch the world go by under the shade of a coconut palm. Ko Samui

Day 36 Dec 9, 2028 Singapore 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Advanced, airy and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million call it home, but this is a city designed with space to breathe, and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens' skyscrapers and soaring structures. Once a quiet fishing village, now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education and technology. View less Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean - and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city's neighbourhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up - nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs - and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colourful orchids. Or breathe in more of the freshest air by heading up to wander the canopy strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay - a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples - like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore's cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city's eponymous gin-soaked cocktail - a Singapore Sling. Singapore

Day 37 Dec 10, 2028 Kuala Lumpur 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore Kuala Lumpur—or simply KL to the locals—is relatively young as cities go. But as they say, age is just a number, and what KL may lack in longstanding history, it more than makes up for in panache and progress. As you explore the bustling streets, you’ll notice an eclectic mixture of architecture—the Sultan Abdul Samad Building of Moorish design, the Tudor-style Cricket Club, the Railway station that’s a perfect balance of East meets West, and the early English gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral (just to name a few). Not to mention the most iconic building of all, the 88-story Petronas Towers; the pride of the city and the ultimate symbol of KL’s futuristic development. Kuala Lumpur

Day 38 Dec 11, 2028 Langkawi 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Langkawi comprises a group of 99 tropical islands lying off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The main island is known as Pulau Langkawi. The islands are shrouded with an intriguing heritage of myths and legends that feature ogres and gigantic birds, warriors and fairy princesses, battles and romance. Langkawi has been accorded the Geopark status by UNESCO, for its beautiful geological heritage of stunning landscapes, karsts, caves, sea-arches, stacks, glacial dropstones and fossils. With a geological history dating back 500 million years, the islands contain unique rock formations that stir the imagination and baffle the mind. Langkawi

Day 39 Dec 12, 2028 Phuket 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore The island of Phuket (pronounced 'Poo-ket') is often called the Pearl of Thailand – and once you set foot on pristine beaches and see its crystalline blue water, you'll understand why. Cruise to Phuket, Thailand and start your day by diving right in – literally – at Kata Noi Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot where you can soak in the sun and sand and unwind. Then, head to the nearby Karon Viewpoint for unparalleled views of the Andaman Sea and the area's lush mountainous landscape. In town, see the Big Buddha of Phuket – the white marble likeness of the holy figure stands 45 metres tall. Then, see the elaborate temple of Wat Chalong and its Grand Pagoda, where it's believed a splinter of bone from the Buddha himself resides. Phuket

Day 40 Dec 13, 2028 Penang 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore In the far northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, Penang is the most ambiguously named part of the Malaysia: depending on context, the moniker may refer to the island (Pulau Pinang in Malay, pinang being what Malays call the betel-nut palm), or the state (the island plus a blob of mainland opposite, around the town of Butterworth), or even just the state capital – properly Georgetown, waiting to be appreciated on anMSC Grand Voyages cruise excursion. This was where the British established their first Malay port in the late eighteenth century, laying the foundations for the Georgetown of today, a fascinating blend of colonial, Indian, Malay and – especially – Chinese and Peranakan heritage. A shore excursion on your MSC Grand Voyages cruise can be the opportunity to visit this city that has seen a renaissance since its central old quarter, along with that of Melaka, were jointly made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, and makes a wonderful base to see all of Penang. Elsewhere on the 285-square-kilometre island are a coastal national park where you might see nesting turtles, a couple of unusual temples and a rather overdeveloped beach at Batu Ferringhi. Filling a triangular cape at the island’s northeastern corner is Georgetown’s centre, its historical core of which is essentially the area south and east of Lebuh Farquhar, Lebuh Cinta (Love Lane) and Lebuh Melayu. It’s a surprisingly harmonious maze of lanes lined with shophouses in various states of repair and liberally sprinkled with religious buildings, impressive clan associations or kongsi – a blend of Chinese welfare organization, social club and temple and other monuments. Dating to 1884, Georgetown’s Botanical Gardens boast extensive lawns, a stream and little jungly waterfall, and several (rather paltry) plant houses. Weekend mornings it’s packed with groups of exercising Chinese, who storm around the circuit trail in about thirty minutes. Penang Penang port guide Search cruises visiting Penang

Penang photo — Day 40 Dec 13, 2028 Penang 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore In the far northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, Penang is the most ambiguously named part of the Malaysia: depending on context, the moniker may refer to the island (Pulau Pinang in Malay, pinang being what Malays call the betel-nut palm), or the state (the island plus a blob of mainland opposite, around the town of Butterworth), or even just the state capital – properly Georgetown, waiting to be appreciated on anMSC Grand Voyages cruise excursion. This was where the British established their first Malay port in the late eighteenth century, laying the foundations for the Georgetown of today, a fascinating blend of colonial, Indian, Malay and – especially – Chinese and Peranakan heritage. A shore excursion on your MSC Grand Voyages cruise can be the opportunity to visit this city that has seen a renaissance since its central old quarter, along with that of Melaka, were jointly made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, and makes a wonderful base to see all of Penang. Elsewhere on the 285-square-kilometre island are a coastal national park where you might see nesting turtles, a couple of unusual temples and a rather overdeveloped beach at Batu Ferringhi. Filling a triangular cape at the island’s northeastern corner is Georgetown’s centre, its historical core of which is essentially the area south and east of Lebuh Farquhar, Lebuh Cinta (Love Lane) and Lebuh Melayu. It’s a surprisingly harmonious maze of lanes lined with shophouses in various states of repair and liberally sprinkled with religious buildings, impressive clan associations or kongsi – a blend of Chinese welfare organization, social club and temple and other monuments. Dating to 1884, Georgetown’s Botanical Gardens boast extensive lawns, a stream and little jungly waterfall, and several (rather paltry) plant houses. Weekend mornings it’s packed with groups of exercising Chinese, who storm around the circuit trail in about thirty minutes. Penang Penang port guide Search cruises visiting Penang

Day 43 Dec 16, 2028 Jakarta 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore From its Dutch Colonial old town to its vibrant Chinatown, Indonesia’s capital is a dynamic blend of cultures and influences. Mosques and cathedrals coexist with Chinese temples, modern shopping centres share pavements with traditional street markets, and Indonesian theatres draw the same crowds as Dutch concert halls. Your guide to Jakarta. Despite its sprawling size, Jakarta offers much to discover given just one day. National monuments that pay homage to Indonesia’s independence; museums and galleries depicting ethnology, art and history; and myriad religious buildings celebrating faiths from every corner of the world. Oh, and did we mention the coffee’s pretty great too? Jakarta Jakarta port guide Search cruises visiting Jakarta

Jakarta photo — Day 43 Dec 16, 2028 Jakarta 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore From its Dutch Colonial old town to its vibrant Chinatown, Indonesia’s capital is a dynamic blend of cultures and influences. Mosques and cathedrals coexist with Chinese temples, modern shopping centres share pavements with traditional street markets, and Indonesian theatres draw the same crowds as Dutch concert halls. Your guide to Jakarta. Despite its sprawling size, Jakarta offers much to discover given just one day. National monuments that pay homage to Indonesia’s independence; museums and galleries depicting ethnology, art and history; and myriad religious buildings celebrating faiths from every corner of the world. Oh, and did we mention the coffee’s pretty great too? Jakarta Jakarta port guide Search cruises visiting Jakarta

Day 45 Dec 18, 2028 Surabaya, Java 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Indonesia’s second-largest city and Java’s capital, Surabaya is known as the City of Heroes thanks to the important role it played in capturing international attention during the country’s revolution in the 1940s. And that independent spirit is still palpable among the metropolis's internationally diverse population of nearly three million people. Surabaya is home to Indonesia’s only synagogue as well as the largest mosque in East Java. And colonial-era buildings sit just a short stroll from glitzy new shopping centers. Visitors have much to experience, whether taking in the extensive artifacts in the Museum Mpu Tantular, seeing where Indonesia’s clove cigarettes got their beginnings at the House of Sampoerna or venturing into the city’s green lung with a boat ride through the mangrove forests of Wonorejo. You’ll feel transported to a Middle Eastern bazaar at the Pasar Ampel, where the vendors hawk spices, sticky sweet dates and imported carpets. And a visit to Kenjeran Beach, right in the city, offers the chance to spot fishermen showcasing their fresh catch or take in views of one of Indonesia’s longest bridges. Obviously, deciding where to spend your time will be your main conundrum in Surabaya. Surabaya, Java

Day 46 Dec 19, 2028 Celukan Bawang, Bali 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Explore the hidden wonders of northern Bali from this busy port, where modern seagoing vessels mingle with traditional Bugis schooners, high-prowed wooden ships that have plied these waters for centuries. More eclectic charms await in Bali’s former capital of Singaraja, whose colonial Dutch influence contrasts with the island’s age-old stone temples. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Bali Barat National Park, perhaps snorkeling among the luminous coral reefs surrounding Menjangan Island or sighting the graceful Bali starling in a lush monsoon forest. Stroll exotic botanical gardens in the lakeside village of Bedugul and browse a colorful farmer’s market for an authentic glimpse of Bali’s timeless allure. Celukan Bawang, Bali

Day 47 Dec 20, 2028 Benoa/Bali Arrives 08:00 Benoa Harbour (Pelabuhan Benoa), 25km south of Denpasar, is the arrival and departure point for MSC Grand Voyages cruises to Indonesia. Benoa is a shelter for cruise ships sailing the Indian Ocean; it’s also a handy port for cruisers wanting to see Bali’s highlights. With pristine tropical beaches, elegantly sculpted rice paddies, volcanic peaks, and uncontaminated coastlines for world-class surf or sunbathing, Bali, with Lombok, is a tourist paradise; it has been attracting visitors for almost 100 years. An unmissable excursion during your MSC Grand Voyages cruise is Ubud, Bali’s cultural heartland, home to a huge number of temples, museums and art galleries, where Balinese dance shows are staged nightly, a wealth of craft studios provide absorbing shopping, and traditional ceremonies and rituals are observed daily. Once you get away from the main thoroughfares, Ubud’s lovely location is apparent, set amid lush, terraced paddies offering plenty of scope for hikes and bicycle rides, many of them with fine views up to the central mountains. Another MSC excursion can let you experience one of the greatest highlights of Bali and Indonesia: the Bali Safari and Marine Park. It draws several thousand visitors from all over the world who come to see animals from Indonesia, India and Africa (elephants, tigers, Komodo dragons and so on). There’s also a water park and theatrical shows. Benoa/Bali

Day 48 Dec 21, 2028 Benoa/Bali Departs 18:00 Benoa Harbour (Pelabuhan Benoa), 25km south of Denpasar, is the arrival and departure point for MSC Grand Voyages cruises to Indonesia. Benoa is a shelter for cruise ships sailing the Indian Ocean; it’s also a handy port for cruisers wanting to see Bali’s highlights. With pristine tropical beaches, elegantly sculpted rice paddies, volcanic peaks, and uncontaminated coastlines for world-class surf or sunbathing, Bali, with Lombok, is a tourist paradise; it has been attracting visitors for almost 100 years. An unmissable excursion during your MSC Grand Voyages cruise is Ubud, Bali’s cultural heartland, home to a huge number of temples, museums and art galleries, where Balinese dance shows are staged nightly, a wealth of craft studios provide absorbing shopping, and traditional ceremonies and rituals are observed daily. Once you get away from the main thoroughfares, Ubud’s lovely location is apparent, set amid lush, terraced paddies offering plenty of scope for hikes and bicycle rides, many of them with fine views up to the central mountains. Another MSC excursion can let you experience one of the greatest highlights of Bali and Indonesia: the Bali Safari and Marine Park. It draws several thousand visitors from all over the world who come to see animals from Indonesia, India and Africa (elephants, tigers, Komodo dragons and so on). There’s also a water park and theatrical shows. Benoa/Bali

Day 50 Dec 23, 2028 Semarang 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Located on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia, Semarang is the capital of its province, playing a prominent role as both busy commercial center and important cultural destination. The lowlands are characterized by offices, business centers and industrial estates, while up in the hills are houses with lovely gardens and superb views. The city’s current vibrancy could perhaps have been predicted, as Semarang has been a bustling trading center since the Dutch colonial era, when the Dutch East Indies Company established tobacco plantations and built infrastructure such as roads and railroads. The Dutch influence can still be seen in the older part of the city near the harbor. Other cultures, primarily that of the Chinese, also have left their imprint on Semarang and continue to be a significant part of what it is to live in and visit Java. Semarang

Day 53 Dec 26, 2028 Muara, Brunei 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore The microscopic Sultanate of Brunei lays claim to one of the most dramatic rags-to-riches stories.Thanks to oil, the Sultan of Brunei is one of the richest men in the world, and the Sultanate is often dubbed a Shell-fare-state. Brunei's citizens do not pay income tax; they enjoy free education, medical care and old-age pensions. The government employs a third of the workforce, who are probably the best-paid bureaucrats in the world. Brunei Darussalam, as the country is officially called, is the rump of what was once a sprawling empire that occupied a land area of about twice the size of Luxembourg. On January 1, 1984, after nearly 100 years as a British Protectorate, Brunei became a fully independent sovereign nation. In August of 1967, Hassanal Bolkiah was crowned the 29th Sultan of Brunei. He succeeded his father, Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien III, who started to modernize the capital and is known as the architect of modern Brunei. Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and the only town of any size in the country. It is a neat, modern city, split into three main areas. The “old” sector, built in the 1950s, is being redeveloped with new buildings around the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque; the Seri Complex, a commercial area dates from the 1970s, and Gadong boasts a recently shopping center and numerous restaurants. Bandar or, simply BSB, as the capital is commonly called, still features a sprawling maze of wooden houses built on stilts along the Brunei River. Its residents, the Kampong Ayer, have retained their traditional lifestyle despite all the trimmings of capitalism. They provide one of the more interesting elements in an otherwise modern city. Muara, Brunei Muara, Brunei port guide Search cruises visiting Muara, Brunei

Muara, Brunei photo — Day 53 Dec 26, 2028 Muara, Brunei 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore The microscopic Sultanate of Brunei lays claim to one of the most dramatic rags-to-riches stories.Thanks to oil, the Sultan of Brunei is one of the richest men in the world, and the Sultanate is often dubbed a Shell-fare-state. Brunei's citizens do not pay income tax; they enjoy free education, medical care and old-age pensions. The government employs a third of the workforce, who are probably the best-paid bureaucrats in the world. Brunei Darussalam, as the country is officially called, is the rump of what was once a sprawling empire that occupied a land area of about twice the size of Luxembourg. On January 1, 1984, after nearly 100 years as a British Protectorate, Brunei became a fully independent sovereign nation. In August of 1967, Hassanal Bolkiah was crowned the 29th Sultan of Brunei. He succeeded his father, Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien III, who started to modernize the capital and is known as the architect of modern Brunei. Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and the only town of any size in the country. It is a neat, modern city, split into three main areas. The “old” sector, built in the 1950s, is being redeveloped with new buildings around the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque; the Seri Complex, a commercial area dates from the 1970s, and Gadong boasts a recently shopping center and numerous restaurants. Bandar or, simply BSB, as the capital is commonly called, still features a sprawling maze of wooden houses built on stilts along the Brunei River. Its residents, the Kampong Ayer, have retained their traditional lifestyle despite all the trimmings of capitalism. They provide one of the more interesting elements in an otherwise modern city. Muara, Brunei Muara, Brunei port guide Search cruises visiting Muara, Brunei

Day 54 Dec 27, 2028 Kota Kinabalu 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, is a relatively new town; the original one was destroyed during World War II. Strung out along the coast with jungle-clad hills as a backdrop, Kota Kinabalu, or KK for short, is home to a population of about 300,000. It was known as Jesselton before the war. The state of Sabah occupies the northern part of Borneo and is about the size of Ireland. After World War II, the British declared Sabah a Crown Colony. In 1963, Sabah gained her independence and joined the Federation of Malaysia. The old seafarer's name for Sabah was “Land Below the Wind,” referring to the state's location just below the typhoon belt. Kota Kinabalu's deep-water harbor gave the town strategic significance, evoking a Japanese invasion in 1942 and heavy bombing by the Allies. Following the war, the capital was moved from Sandakan to Jesselton and renamed Kota Kinabalu after the mountain. The pride of Sabah is Mount Kinabalu. With 13,431 feet, this is the highest mountain in Malaysia and a spectacular sight. For centuries, the Dusuns, Sabah's largest ethnic group, regarded the mountain as the final resting place of their departed. High priests still perform annual rites to appease the spirits. Kota Kinabalu

Day 56 Dec 29, 2028 Puerto Princessa, Palawan 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Home to a New Wonder of the World - the amazing underground river that flows close by - Palawan’s capital promises a relentless assault of natural glory. Founded by the Spanish in 1872, Puerto Princesa is one of the Philippines’s largest centres - but the Green City is also one of the country's most spacious and lush. Whether it’s the innovative environmental credentials, or the dense vegetation clinging to scenic limestone cliffs nearby, Puerto Princesa welcomes you to a rich, green, and astonishingly beautiful corner of the world. View less The underground river of glowing emerald water slices into the limestone rock and runs through inky darkness for five miles, amid dark stalactites and elaborate natural rock sculptures. A subterranean wonder, sail into the cave in a canoe to witness this UNESCO World Heritage Site firsthand and explore a gaping interior, where bats flutter overhead. The scenery is just as impressive above the earth, with tropical beaches and rainforest-cloaked waterfalls nearby. Travel between attractive bays and islands, alive with diverse flora, as well as monkeys and monitor lizards wandering freely. Island hop the stunning sandy isles that pepper the turquoise water of Honda Bay, to investigate characterful idylls that beg to be snorkelled, surrounded by seawater stocked with starfish. Puerto Princesa itself is dotted with cultural and historical sites - including the harrowing World War II history of Plaza Cuartel. Where a massacre of American soldiers took place. Elsewhere, you can visit the thought-provoking Iwahig Prison and Penal Colony - which aims to reform prisoners through farming and agricultural practices. Head for the Baywalk to try some local foods, and to soak up the palm-lined waterfront atmosphere. Puerto Princessa, Palawan

Day 57 Dec 30, 2028 Coron, Philippines 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore "Dramatic rock protrusions rear from turquoise sea - while endless sweeps of golden sand, and underwater worlds of colourful life – make Coron a place that you can’t help but dive into. A snorkeler and scuba diver’s paradise, ghostly shipwrecks lie below the glorious waters here, swirling with life and stories. With complex coral reefs, towering cliffs, and turquoise waters blotched with emerald greens, Coron is a vibrant and revitalising escape of spectacular islands and pristine beaches. With limestone cliffs jutting into the air, Kayangan Lake is already beautiful enough from the surface - but it’s a whole other world in the depths of the freshwater lake. Dive in to see the underlying world in all of its colourful glory, or sail across the surface and observe the beauty through the glass-like water. Elsewhere, Lake Barracuda is a unique diving experience, where you can swim among a swirl of intertwining fresh and saltwater and feel the sudden shifts in temperature as you move. Experienced divers should head out to the dozens of ghostly Japanese wrecks that have lain still on these sea-beds ever since they were sunken by a US air assault, as the Pacific War raged. All of that swimming, diving and beachside relaxation is hard work - so visit Maquinit Hot Springs to dissolve any stresses in the thermally heated waters, which will poach any sore muscles back to health. A Buko Shake’s blend of coconut, milk and ice is always refreshing – especially when sipped on your choice of Coron’s isolated beach paradises." Coron, Philippines

Day 58 Dec 31, 2028 Boracay 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore A vibrant beachside paradise known for its stunning white sand beaches, picture perfect turquoise waters, and electric nightlife. Along the shore, rustic beach huts butt up against modern hotels, while inland, lush forests hide jewel-colored swimming holes and playful tree monkeys. Rocky black cliffs loom high above the waters, beckoning the adventurous to cliff-dive from Ariel’s Point, or to scale the steep steps up Mount Luho for stunning coastal views. Take the road less traveled and set out on horseback or mountain bike to discover hidden beaches and breathtaking scenery. Below sea level, Boracay’s waters beg to be explored. Kayak, paddle-board, skimboard, or sail a paraw around the island to explore its coves and beaches—like Bulabog Beach, known as the best kiteboarding destination in Asia. Snorkel or dive the rich coastline and encounter clownfish, starfish, sea anemones—even sea turtles. Boracay

Day 59 Jan 1, 2029 Manila 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Discover the capital of the Philippines, Pearl of the Orient Sea. Your MSC Cruise will take you to the world of Manila. Overlooking the South China Sea, the city is located on the island of Luzón, the largest of the archipelago. Twelve million people live in this colourful yet chaotic metropolis. Its origins can be traced back to the sixteenth century, when May Nilad, a Muslim colony, arose on the banks of the Pasig River. Following the arrival of the Americans in 1898, the town grew to become one of the most important cities in Asia. Today Manila is an economic and cultural hub, and ‒ like many big cities ‒ has to deal with overcrowding, crime and poverty. Here past and present coexist seamlessly. An excursion will take you to Fort Santiago, an ancient Spanish fortress in the citadel of Intramuros, built in 1571. In 1945, it was almost completely razed to the ground in the battle of Manila. Today it is an historical park and a place of prayer, in memory of the Filipino victims during the Japanese occupation in the Second World War. Tagaytay City is about 37 miles from Manila and can be visited with an excursion. It's not what you might imagine when you think of a Philippine town: forget the traffic of Manila and enjoy the wonderful greenery and peace of this town, dominated by the massive Taal Volcano – the second most active in the Philippines – with its green crater lake. Immerse yourself in the history of Corregidor: you can take an excursion to the last bastion of the allied Filipino and U.S. forces during the Second World War. Corregidor was conquered by the Japanese in 1942 and then liberated by the Americans in 1944. Manila Manila port guide Search cruises visiting Manila

Manila photo — Day 59 Jan 1, 2029 Manila 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Discover the capital of the Philippines, Pearl of the Orient Sea. Your MSC Cruise will take you to the world of Manila. Overlooking the South China Sea, the city is located on the island of Luzón, the largest of the archipelago. Twelve million people live in this colourful yet chaotic metropolis. Its origins can be traced back to the sixteenth century, when May Nilad, a Muslim colony, arose on the banks of the Pasig River. Following the arrival of the Americans in 1898, the town grew to become one of the most important cities in Asia. Today Manila is an economic and cultural hub, and ‒ like many big cities ‒ has to deal with overcrowding, crime and poverty. Here past and present coexist seamlessly. An excursion will take you to Fort Santiago, an ancient Spanish fortress in the citadel of Intramuros, built in 1571. In 1945, it was almost completely razed to the ground in the battle of Manila. Today it is an historical park and a place of prayer, in memory of the Filipino victims during the Japanese occupation in the Second World War. Tagaytay City is about 37 miles from Manila and can be visited with an excursion. It's not what you might imagine when you think of a Philippine town: forget the traffic of Manila and enjoy the wonderful greenery and peace of this town, dominated by the massive Taal Volcano – the second most active in the Philippines – with its green crater lake. Immerse yourself in the history of Corregidor: you can take an excursion to the last bastion of the allied Filipino and U.S. forces during the Second World War. Corregidor was conquered by the Japanese in 1942 and then liberated by the Americans in 1944. Manila Manila port guide Search cruises visiting Manila

Day 61 Jan 3, 2029 Hong Kong, China Arrives 09:00 A spectacular, serrated skyline of soaring towers and neon lights, Hong Kong is a vibrant, immersive metropolis and cultural hub. Dramatic harbour-front light shows transform the waterfront’s gleaming buildings into a colourful canvas – best seen from the Star Ferry, when the Symphony of Lights blares into life each evening. A city where future and tradition collides - perhaps best illustrated by the skyscrapers that feature gaping holes, designed to allow spirit dragons to soar from the hills to the waterfront unimpeded. View less Wander flowing shopping streets, wade through sprawling markets and soak up the neon glory of this one-of-a-kind city - which continues to reach for the sky. Hong Kong's dense jumble of activity is one of its main appeals, but once you've felt the thrill of rising to towering observation decks, to see the soaring city from above, it's surprisingly easy to find peace among Hong Kong's intense urban wonders. Victoria Peak is the highest point and it offers staggering views down over the city and harbour. The Peak Tram funicular can ferry you to the top, to the vantage point which was historically adored by the rich for the cooler air found here, away from the busy bustle of the city streets. Many elaborate temples add a tranquil element to Hong Kong’s whirr, and Tin Hau temple has a surprisingly urban location, considering its dedication to the Goddess of the Sea. It did once occupy the shorefront, but the city's growth saw land reclaimed from the sea around it, leaving the temple marooned inland. Having been leased to the British for 99 years, milky tea is a revered tradition here - enjoy your cup with a serving of local dim sum.While it's easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of today's Hong Kong, you need only walk or board a tram for the short jaunt west into Western to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditionally Chinese but no less high-energy. You'll discover the real Hong Kong to the east of Central, too, in Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and beyond. Amid the residential towers are restaurants, shopping malls, bars, convention centers, a nice smattering of museums, and—depending on fate and the horse you wager on—one of Hong Kong's luckiest or unluckiest spots, the Happy Valley Racecourse. Kowloon sprawls across a generous swath of the Chinese mainland across Victoria Harbour from Central. Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, is packed with glitzy shops, first-rate museums, and eye-popping views of the skyline across the water. Just to the north are the teeming market streets of Mong Kok and in the dense residential neighborhoods beyond, two of Hong Kong's most enchanting spiritual sights, Wong Tai Sin Temple and Chi Lin Nunnery. As you navigate this huge metropolis (easy to do on the excellent transportation network), keep in mind that streets are usually numbered odd on one side, even on the other. There's no baseline for street numbers and no block-based numbering system, but street signs indicate building numbers for any given block. Hong Kong, China

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Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 118-day span: $44,749 · range $44,749–$59,249

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