Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in Southeast Asia with its virtually irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms.

Of course Thailand, like other Asian countries, has been influenced by contact with foreign cultures. But the never-changing character of Thai culture has remained dominant, even in modern city life. Often depicted as fun-loving, happy-go-lucky folk (which indeed they often are), the Thais are also proud and strong, and have struggled for centuries to preserve their independence of spirit.

Singapore has traded in its rough-and-ready opium dens and pearl luggers for towers of concrete and glass, and its steamy rickshaw image for hi-tech wizardry, but you can still recapture the colonial era with a gin sling under the languorous ceiling fans at Raffles Hotel.

At first glance, Singapore appears shockingly modern and anonymous, but this is an undeniably Asian city with Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions from feng shui to ancestor worship creating part of the everyday landscape. It's these contrasts that bring the city to life.

Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in South-East Asia. It's buoyant and wealthy, and has moved towards a pluralist culture based on a vibrant and interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs.

Malaysia's love of Western-style industrialisation is abundantly clear in its big cities. Aside from the gleaming glass of the 21st Century, Malaysia boasts some of the most superb beaches, mountains and national parks in Asia.

Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in Southeast Asia with its virtually irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms.

Of course Thailand, like other Asian countries, has been influenced by contact with foreign cultures. But the never-changing character of Thai culture has remained dominant, even in modern city life. Often depicted as fun-loving, happy-go-lucky folk (which indeed they often are), the Thais are also proud and strong, and have struggled for centuries to preserve their independence of spirit.

Singapore has traded in its rough-and-ready opium dens and pearl luggers for towers of concrete and glass, and its steamy rickshaw image for hi-tech wizardry, but you can still recapture the colonial era with a gin sling under the languorous ceiling fans at Raffles Hotel.

At first glance, Singapore appears shockingly modern and anonymous, but this is an undeniably Asian city with Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions from feng shui to ancestor worship creating part of the everyday landscape. It's these contrasts that bring the city to life.

Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in South-East Asia. It's buoyant and wealthy, and has moved towards a pluralist culture based on a vibrant and interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs.

Malaysia's love of Western-style industrialisation is abundantly clear in its big cities. Aside from the gleaming glass of the 21st Century, Malaysia boasts some of the most superb beaches, mountains and national parks in Asia.

Singapore has traded in its rough-and-ready opium dens and pearl luggers for towers of concrete and glass, and its steamy rickshaw image for hi-tech wizardry, but you can still recapture the colonial era with a gin sling under the languorous ceiling fans at Raffles Hotel.

At first glance, Singapore appears shockingly modern and anonymous, but this is an undeniably Asian city with Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions from feng shui to ancestor worship creating part of the everyday landscape. It's these contrasts that bring the city to life.

Though fast rivalling Singapore as a booming commercial capital, Kuala Lumpur has far more to offer than just futuristic expressways, high rise office buildings and smart hotels. There are gold domed mosques, tropical gardens and museums to be explored, as well as the Central Market and the bustling night markets of Chinatown. The shops in Kuala Lumpur offer some of the best choice and value in the Far East - B.B Plaza and The Mall are amongst the largest in the Far East.

Located in the north west corner of peninsular Malaysia within the vicinity of the Thai Malay border. Pulau Langkawi, commonly referred to as Langkawi, is the largest island in an archipelago of some 99 islands. It is well known to many Malaysians for its mystical folk tales of legendary princess’ but is better known for its unspolit and tranquil environment, white sandy beaches, hideaway coves, calm seas, adventurous island trekking and spectacular underwater activities. Langkawi is also the perfect place to relax and unwind in glorious tropical surroundings, with several high-class resorts scattered about the island ready to serve your every need.

Though fast rivalling Singapore as a booming commercial capital, Kuala Lumpur has far more to offer than just futuristic expressways, high rise office buildings and smart hotels. There are gold domed mosques, tropical gardens and museums to be explored, as well as the Central Market and the bustling night markets of Chinatown. The shops in Kuala Lumpur offer some of the best choice and value in the Far East - B.B Plaza and The Mall are amongst the largest in the Far East.

An island of uncrowded beaches, lush gardens and historic temples. Penang is a mere 15 miles long and 10 miles wide and is washed by the waters of the Straits of Malacca, just off Malaysia’s west coast. Batu Ferringhi is a 2 mile stretch of beach where you’ll find most of the major resort hotels. For a taste of the island’s colonial past visit the fascinating capital of Georgetown with one of the largest 'Chinatowns' in South East Asia. Explore Penang’s lush, hilly interior with sights including the Kek Lok Si Temple and some fine views from the top of Penang Hill - reached by funicular railway.