Siam to Singapore by Luxury Rail - Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express February 7-18, 2021 - National Trust Tours
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Siam to Singapore by Luxury Rail
Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express
February 7–18, 2021
HIGHLIGHTS DISCOVER Bangkok’s Suan Pakkad Palace, a marvelous series of traditional Thai houses where a princess once lived, and admire its collections of lacquer and precious pottery dating back 4,000 years TRAVEL north of Bangkok to discover the former capital of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with immense temples and other important historic sites VISIT the Bangkok Art Biennale, and savor a full immersion in this festival’s performances and contemporary artworks, which transform the city into a lively cultural hub SPEND three nights aboard the classic Eastern & Oriental Express, named one of the “World’s Top 25 Trains” by the Society of International Railway Travelers, and enjoy its impeccable service and five-star dining TAKE a short cruise on the famed River Kwai to see the bridge immortalized in David Lean’s epic, Oscar-winning film STROLL through Singapore’s renowned Botanic Gardens and cinematic Gardens by the Bay, and take an architectural tour aboard a traditional “bumboat,” a charming water taxi unique to Singapore
Dear National Trust Traveler,
From serene Buddhist monuments and bustling markets to futuristic
cityscapes and contemporary art, Bangkok, Malaysia, and Singapore offer an
abundance of charms and wonderments. Join the National Trust next February
aboard the glamorous Eastern & Oriental Express train on an enthralling journey
down the Malay Peninsula.
Over four nights in lively, ancient Bangkok at the Peninsula Hotel,
we will discover a wealth of Thai treasures, from the art and antiquities at the
Jim Thompson House to the rich collections of lacquer and furniture at Suan
Pakkad Palace and the sculptures and royal carriages at the National Museum.
We will immerse ourselves in the contemporary artworks at the Bangkok Art
Biennale, the celebrated art fair, and later behold Thailand’s most sacred
image, the Emerald Buddha. Just north of Bangkok, the grand towers and
temples in the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ayutthaya, a royal city founded in the
14th century, will inspire awe.
The journey from Bangkok to Singapore aboard the luxurious Eastern
& Oriental Express is magical. Savoring the train’s exceptional ambiance, cuisine,
and service, we will survey extraordinary temples, tea plantations, and paddy
fields, stepping off for a short cruise beneath the legendary bridge on the
River Kwai and a tour of a delightful 19th-century Malay village. Conclude
with two days in Singapore for an immersion into its thriving cultural scene.
Highlights there include a Marina Bay cruise aboard a traditional “bumboat”
with views of the city’s striking architecture, spanning colonial to modern
times, and a perusal of the modern masterpieces in the National Gallery.
For those who wish to explore astonishing, UNESCO-listed temples in
Hamilton’s birthplace, Nevis
Indonesia, an optional postlude in Borobudur and picturesque
Lorem ipsum Bali is offered.
I hope you will join us for this fascinating adventure.
Sincerely,
THAILAND
Bangkok
Scott Gerloff
Director, National Trust Tours
Andaman
Sea
Gulf of
Thailand
South China
Sea
MALAYSIA
SINGAPORE
Siam to Singapore by Luxury Rail
Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express
February 7–18, 2021
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7: DEPARTURE
Depart on an overnight flight to Bangkok, with a connection en route.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8: BANGKOK, THAILAND
Arrive in Bangkok late tonight and transfer to the elegant Peninsula Bangkok Hotel
overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the lively artery of old Bangkok and gateway to
many of the city’s glittering temples and palaces.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9: BANGKOK
After breakfast, enjoy a morning lecture by an expert specializing in Asian art who will
be accompanying us throughout the tour. Continue for lunch at the Jim Thompson
House Museum, the former home of the American expatriate who is famous as a
pioneer of the local silk industry. The museum is a group of six traditional houses
collected from all over Thailand, which now showcases Thompson’s marvelous Asian
art collection. Following lunch, see the Suan Pakkad Palace. As we stroll through this
complex of traditional teak houses, once owned by a member of the Royal Family, enjoy
the palace’s rich collection of lacquer, furniture, and a collection of Ban Chiang pottery
more than 4,000 years old. In the evening, gather for introductory remarks, followed by
a celebratory welcome dinner. B,L,D
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10: BANGKOK
Begin with a morning stroll through a flower market and a tour of the spice market
where we will learn about the ingredients of Thai cuisine. Visit the Bangkok National
Museum, whose collections include both early Siamese Buddhist bronzes and some
spectacular Khmer stone sculptures. After lunch, continue to Wat Arun, the likely
location of the Bangkok Biennale installation. Meet with the director of the Biennale
(schedule pending). The evening is free to attend an optional cooking class
featuring regional cuisine. B,L
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11: BANGKOK /
Drive this morning to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 14th
century, Ayutthaya became the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai. The royal city
was destroyed by Burmese invaders in the 18th century, yet its remains—characterized
by towers and gigantic monasteries—give a vivid image of its past splendor. Cruise
along the Chao Phraya River and return to Bangkok, followed by dinner this evening
at the famed Blue Elephant. B,L,D
Ayutthaya
Thai countryside FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12: BANGKOK / EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS Today, discover the Grand Palace, residence of the kings of the Chakri Dynasty. In the religious complex of Wat Phra Kaew, see the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred image for Buddhists in Thailand. Also visit the Queen Sirikit Textile Museum. After lunch, view the Reclining Buddha at Wat Po. Make your way to the glamorous Eastern & Oriental Express for the three-night rail journey, with dinner on board this evening B,L,D SATURDAY & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13 & 14: EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS From the comfort of your elegant en-suite cabins or the open-air Observation Deck, view the lush landscapes of Thailand and Malaysia. Enjoy exquisite meals in the dining car as well as a private lecture. Each day will include excursion options, beginning with a short cruise on the River Kwai to see the bridge immortalized in the 1952 novel and David Lean’s 1957 film adaptation. You may also visit the museum documenting the Thailand-Burma Railway, built by Japanese forces during World War II. The following day will focus on Malaysian food, culture, and agriculture in a local village. B,L,D MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15: SINGAPORE After a late morning arrival in Singapore, explore the displays of engaging art and artifacts at the Asian Civilizations Museum. Savor a lunch of local delicacies before transferring to the Fullerton Hotel for check-in. The evening is at leisure. B,L TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16: SINGAPORE Discover the National Gallery’s impressive collection of modern Southeast Asian art, housed in the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings. Lunch is at leisure. This afternoon, board a traditional “bumboat” for a Marina Bay cruise featuring Singapore’s many architectural highlights. Then, roam through the enchanting Gardens by the Bay, a gorgeous nature park and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Gather for a farewell dinner this evening. B,D WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17: SINGAPORE Admire the glorious orchid collections and many varieties of bamboo at the renowned Botanic Gardens. Then visit the contemporary art galleries in the Gillman Barracks area, a vibrant cultural neighborhood that was once a military camp, before lunch together. The rest of the day is at leisure. B,L THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18: SINGAPORE / RETURN Transfer to Singapore Changi Airport for return flights, arriving in the United States the same day. While at the airport in Singapore, you may explore Jewel, a Moshe Safdie- designed space housing lush gardens and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. B An optional five-night postlude in Borobudur & Bali is offered from February 18-23, 2021. This itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of the National Trust and Arrangements Abroad. For complete details, please carefully read the terms and conditions at www.arrangementsabroad.com/terms.
The National Gallery, Singapore
ACCOMMODATIONS
EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS
Discover Southeast Asia aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. This spectacular
train is operated by the same company that runs the legendary Venice Simplon-
Orient Express. The Society of International Railway Travelers awarded the E&O
a place on the “World’s Top 25 Trains” list for beauty, dining, service, and
excursion experience.
PENINSULA, BANGKOK
On the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this elegant hotel offers a mix of
traditional Thai style and modern comfort.
FULLERTON HOTEL, SINGAPORE
Housed in a neo-classical landmark built in 1928, this heritage hotel has three
restaurants, an infinity pool, a gym with a sauna and steam room, and a spa.
PROGRAM RATES
State Cabin: Double $13,999, Single $18,999
Pullman Cabin: Double $10,999, Single $12,999
RATES INCLUDES
n Ten nights hotel/cabin accommodations as per itinerary
n Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, R-Reception,
D=Dinner). Bottled water and coffee/tea with all meals, house wine/beer at
lunches and dinners (where available)
n Enrichment program of lectures and talks
n Airport/hotel/train station/airport transfers for all participants on
suggested flights
n Escorted sightseeing by private motor coach and entrance fees for included visits
n Taxes, service, and porterage charges
n Gratuities to local guides and drivers
NOT INCLUDED IN RATE Airfare; meals not specified; alcoholic beverages other than as noted in
inclusions; personal items and expenses; excess baggage; airport transfers other than for those on
suggested flights; trip insurance; optional postlude in Borobudur & Bali; any other items not specifically
mentioned as included.
The Peninsula Hotel, Bangkok
Eastern & Oriental Express photos clockwise from top left: Dining car; Lounge car; and exterior
RESERVATION INFORMATION
To secure your cabin, please call National Trust Tours at
888-484-8785.
A deposit of $1,000 per person (of which $500 is non-refundable
for administrative fees) is required.
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Siam to Singapore by Luxury Rail
Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express
February 7–18, 2021
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
TBA
1 55 15th Street, NW, Suite 300
1
Washington, D.C. 20005
(888) 484-8785 or (202) 588-6300
www.nationaltrusttours.com
info@nationaltrusttours.com
Front cover: Golden buddhas, Wat Arun. Back cover: Wat Arun, Bangkok B_21BEOBKK0207_NTT CST 2059789-40
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