Celebrity Cruises – India, Sri Lanka & Thailand

Mumbai, a metropolis of almost 18 million people, ranges from upscale to urban, cosmopolitan to traditional, and is always fascinating. The city’s colonial heritage brings a wealth of diverse religious traditions together with Muslims, Zoroastrians, Christians and Hindus living side by side. This cultural hub enjoys a constant flow of music, dance, and drama. Mumbai is home to India’s thriving film industry. Most of the Bollywood films are produced here than anywhere. Head to the Prince of Wales Museum on your Mumbai cruise and discover some of India’s most fascinating historic treasures. Or venture to the Caves of Elephanta to explore Hindi craftsmanship. You can explore everything from exclusive international boutiques to small authentic markets. Visit the famous Mangaldas Market where you’ll find authentic Indian spices, fabrics, and antiques.  And be sure to sample delicious exotic street foods like kebabs and vada pav.

The magical state of Goa used to be an outpost of Portugal, so the palms on its beaches still sway with a certain Portuguese rhythm. The laid-back lifestyle in India’s smallest, most prosperous state attracts many world travelers. You can explore world-heritage architecture, fragrant spice plantations, and cuisine that blends Portuguese technique with Indian flavors.

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

The “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” Cochin is one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Once a hub for the India spice trade, this port city has welcomed traders and travelers to its shore for more than 600 years. As a result, you’ll find an interesting mix of cultural influences on your Cochin cruise. Stroll Fort Kochi beach at sunset, framed by the Chinese fishing nets, visit St. Francis Church, where Vasco de Gama was buried, or the 400-year old Paradesi Synagogue. And, take in a Kathakali dance performance that will leave you spellbound. You won’t have to look far for lovely keepsakes and souvenirs, Cochin street markets are brimming with wonderful spices, trinkets, and bright silks. Similar to its architecture, there’s also a variety of international cuisines to explore – from upscale European-style restaurants and wine bars to authentic Indian restaurants and fresh seafood at the outdoor restaurants on Tower Rd.

Old world meets new in the capital of Sri Lanka. Stroll past colonial architecture and lush gardens in the Fort district, shop a traditional marketplace in Pettah, then step into the modern era at Colombo’s many stylish restaurants, galleries and museums. From the city, it’s a short trip to visit an elephant orphanage or ornate Buddhist temple.

Old world meets new in the capital of Sri Lanka. Stroll past colonial architecture and lush gardens in the Fort district, shop a traditional marketplace in Pettah, then step into the modern era at Colombo’s many stylish restaurants, galleries and museums. From the city, it’s a short trip to visit an elephant orphanage or ornate Buddhist temple.

On a cruise to Asia that stops in Hambantota, you’ll find dazzling exotic blooms at the Mirijjawila Botanic Gardens. Glide through the emerald-green winding waterways of the Walawe River on a rainforest safari where you can discover many varieties of mangroves, bird species, deer and water buffalo. Take in a cricket match at the town’s Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, or join an adventurous trek to search for leopards and elephants in the wild in Yala National Park.

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

Thailand’s largest and most visited island, Phuket, offers gorgeous beaches lined with palm trees, plus fabulous coves and bays. Water sports include sailing, diving, and snorkeling. Golf enthusiasts will love the championship courses, while nature lovers will be thrilled by the tropical forests and waterfalls. Tour historic mansions and top off the day enjoying the extensive nightlife.

Often called the “Pearl of the Orient,” this northern gateway to Malaysia is the country’s oldest British settlement. Although this city is best known for its breathtaking beaches, sites such as Khoo Kongsi, a well-preserved ancestral Chinese clan house, and the Butterfly Farm, the world’s first tropical live butterfly exhibition, must-sees on the list for this amazing destination. Also visit Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the finest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia,

Often called the “Pearl of the Orient,” this northern gateway to Malaysia is the country’s oldest British settlement. Although this city is best known for its breathtaking beaches, sites such as Khoo Kongsi, a well-preserved ancestral Chinese clan house, and the Butterfly Farm, the world’s first tropical live butterfly exhibition, must-sees on the list for this amazing destination. Also visit Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the finest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, featuring among other things, a tortoise sanctuary.

Less than an hour from the Port is bustling Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s modern capital city. It rose up from the forbidding jungle terrain to become one of the most fascinating architectural landscapes on earth. A blend of native Malaysian, Chinese Imperial, and European influences has created a city that is as breathtakingly beautiful as it is alive with culture. Replete with fine dining, a fertile arts community and plenty of nightlife, Kuala Lumpur has earned a reputation as a must-see world destination.

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

At first glance, this diamond-shaped island just off the coast of Malaysia gleams with modernism and commercialism, making it seem more Western than Eastern. But as you continue to discover the city-state, you’ll uncover the eclectic mix of cultures, religions, ancient treasures and British colonial impressions that give rise to a unique Singaporean identity. The cultural fusion is perhaps best expressed in Singapore’s unofficial language, Singlish, a unique patois of English, Chinese and Malay.