Round-the-world Cruise - from Hongkong - 116142

The Chinese island of Hong Kong ("Xiang Gang" in Chinese) has, together with the island of Lantao and the Kowloon peninsula, has belonged to the Chinese special administrative region since July 1st 1997. "Hong Kong in the narrow sense" forms the core settlement of the group of islands with a population of more than 4 million. The city is one of the largest financial centres in the world and represents a major junction for sea transport in the region. Sights include: floating restaurants at the harbour, Tai Po racecourse, the beaches at Castle Peak, Man Mo Temple; the bell tower at the tip of the Kowloon peninsula serves as an excellent viewing platform of the city skyline; the 800 m long escalator on Hongkong Island (the longest in the world), "Tiger Balm Garden" with its small caves and statues from Chinese mythology, Victoria Peak with views of the port and the city. There is also a huge number of restaurants and shops.

Halong bay boasts some of Vietnam's most beautiful countryside. It is made up of more than 3,000 little islands of Karst rocks, some of which cover an area of 2,000 km². The rock formations are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The port town of Halong City consists of the two areas "Bai Chai" and "Hon Gai". Legend has it that Halong Bay was created by a "dragon coming down to land" ("Ha Long"). Science has, however, proven that the island landscape was formed during the last Ice Age through the sinking of the South-West Chinese limestone plateau.

Halong bay boasts some of Vietnam's most beautiful countryside. It is made up of more than 3,000 little islands of Karst rocks, some of which cover an area of 2,000 km². The rock formations are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The port town of Halong City consists of the two areas "Bai Chai" and "Hon Gai". Legend has it that Halong Bay was created by a "dragon coming down to land" ("Ha Long"). Science has, however, proven that the island landscape was formed during the last Ice Age through the sinking of the South-West Chinese limestone plateau.

Ho Chi Minh City is the former capital of South Vietnam. It was renamed in honour of the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh and represents the economic centre of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh is divided into 17 urban and 5 rural districts. A large number of cafés, markets and shops dominate the varied cityscape. Sights include: the Dragon House, the Giac-Lam Pagoda, the Historical Museum, the zoo, the Botanic Gardens, the Cathedral "Notre Dame" (1877-1883), the central post office, the town hall (1908), the water puppet shows and Nghia An Hoi Pagoda.

Ho Chi Minh City is the former capital of South Vietnam. It was renamed in honour of the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh and represents the economic centre of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh is divided into 17 urban and 5 rural districts. A large number of cafés, markets and shops dominate the varied cityscape. Sights include: the Dragon House, the Giac-Lam Pagoda, the Historical Museum, the zoo, the Botanic Gardens, the Cathedral "Notre Dame" (1877-1883), the central post office, the town hall (1908), the water puppet shows and Nghia An Hoi Pagoda.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and one of the largest cities in the world. It has three world-renowned universities, more than 400 temples, exotic markets, excellent museums, a range of culinary options that will fulfil your every wish and a legendary nightlife. A trip on the Khlongs, the city's network of canals, is reminiscent of Venice. Many of the sights can be found at Chao Phraya or nearby the riverbanks, since this is the oldest and most historically important part of Bangkok. The city is also home to the unique Buddha statues, the Emerald Buddha and Treimitr. Other sights include: the great palace, the Vimanmek museum, the Dusit Zoo, the parliament building and Ancient City park, which is shaped like Thailand and has mini replicas of the most important buildings.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and one of the largest cities in the world. It has three world-renowned universities, more than 400 temples, exotic markets, excellent museums, a range of culinary options that will fulfil your every wish and a legendary nightlife. A trip on the Khlongs, the city's network of canals, is reminiscent of Venice. Many of the sights can be found at Chao Phraya or nearby the riverbanks, since this is the oldest and most historically important part of Bangkok. The city is also home to the unique Buddha statues, the Emerald Buddha and Treimitr. Other sights include: the great palace, the Vimanmek museum, the Dusit Zoo, the parliament building and Ancient City park, which is shaped like Thailand and has mini replicas of the most important buildings.

Ko Samui is Thailand's third-largest island and lies around 700 km to the South of Bangkok. The island is also known as "Coconut Island" due to the fact that there are more than 3 million coconut palms growing there. Accordingly, there are around 1,000 coconut farmers on the island. The coconuts are harvested for the most part by specially trained monkeys. An insider's tip until a few years ago, Ko Samui is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination, but this has not yet taken anything away from its idyllic charm. For anyone looking for a place with perfect white beaches, crystal clear light-blue waters and picturesque landscapes, Ko Samui is the right place. The most visited sight on the island is 'Big Buddha', a statue of Buddha built in 1972 that stands 12 m high.

Singapore is a city state at the lower end of the Malay Peninsula, only around 100 km North of the equator. Today the city is one of the most important ports and trading centres in South East Asia. Singapore has a population of over 3 million, including first and foremost Chinese, Malaysians and Indians. Europeans and other ethnic groups round off the city of many nationalities and four official languages. Visitors will notice the spotlessly clean and well-kept roads and squares; Singapore is also one of the safest cities in the world. Some interesting buildings dating from the colonial era have been placed under preservation order, including several former British administrative buildings and Raffles Hotel, whose guests included many authors. From the southern shore of the Singapore River visitors can take a boat trip around the river and Marina Bay. Sights include: the shopping street Orchard Road, Chinatown, Little India, Singapore River, the Botanic Gardens, the zoo and Fort Canning.

The island of Penang is also a federal state on the west coast of the peninsula. It is Malaysia's most famous destination, and hardly needs an introduction. Georgetown is known not only as a city full of history, but also for the long beach at Batu Feringghi with its lovely hotels and the expansive view of the sea. The island is connected to the mainland by the Penang Bridge, measuring 13.5 km in length, making it one of the longest bridges in Asia. Sights include: Fort Cornwallis, which today is home to an outdoor museum and acts as an open-air theatre, Penang Bird Park, the Orchid and Hibiscus Garden, the leisure park at Bukit Mertajam and the small but extremely interesting butterfly farm just North of Batu Feringghi.

From the West Coast of the Malacca peninsula (West Malaysia) direct on the border with Thailand, is a group of islands including the main island "Palau Langkawi". Visitors are enchanted by the long, palm-lined beaches and dreamy little sandy coves that hide the odd secluded fishing village. The jungle further inland is a sanctuary for many species of birds. Another rarity is the almost 100 metre-high island of bats. A trip to the island capital of Kuah with its beach promenades and shopping arcades is well worth it. Incidentally, Langkawi is a duty-free free trade area. A visit to the marble tomb of the Malayan Princess Mahsuri is also a must.

Visitors to Thailand's largest island can look forward to paradise beaches, a varied landscape, a bustling provincial capital and a wide variety of recreational activities. It's no wonder that Phuket, with its 215,000 inhabitants, is South-East Asia's most popular holiday island. The island's beauty lies in its magical coastline. There are gently sloping white sandy beaches with still waters and precipitous headlands with thunderous crashing waves. The town centre of Phuket is a popular destination for shopping. Sights include: Thai Village, a Thai-Folklore village with a cultural performance featuring traditional Thai dancing, sword-fighting and Thai boxing, Thalang National Museum, the Wat Phra Thong temple with a partially-buried statue of Buddha.

The capital of Sri Lanka (which used to be known as "Ceylon"), has developed into an important port for ships travelling in the Far East over the last few years. "Beira Lake" surrounds the town, which is connected to the port by means of a canal. The Clock Tower, from which you can enjoy a wonderful view of the town and the port is well worth seeing. The town also has many buildings built in the 18th and 19th century by the Dutch, such as St. Peter's Church or Pettah, once the Dutch residential area, which today is bursting with a colourful bazaars. To the South of Beira Lake is Victoria Park. Colombo town centre is home to Dehiwela Zoo with animals from all around the world and a daily elephant circus.

Kochi, with a population of 600,000 is celebrated as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea". This sea port at the centre of the Malabar coast grew rich through the export of spices to Europe via the Arabian Sea. The natural harbour of Cochin was created only in the 14th Century as a result of flooding of the lagoon coastline. Expansion work began in 1929. One of the must-sees is the Kathakali dance-drama performed by the natives. Other sights include: "Mattancherry", the Dutch Palace, the synagogue, "Fort Kochi", St. Francis' Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch cemetery, the Chinese fishing nets, Willingdon Island and the Hill Palace Museum.

Mangalore is on the coast of Malabar by the Arabian Sea. The city's history dates back many hundreds of years and it has been influenced by both Islamic and Christian culture. It was considered to be an important shipbuilding centre and a strategic port. Sights include: the Mangla Devi temple, built in the 10th century, the mountain "Kadri" with its laterite caves and a unique panorama view of the city and the sea, the Sultan's House with the old lighthouse, the St. Aloysius' chapel with paintings by the Italian Jesuit Maschemi.

Marmagao is one of the oldest ports on the West coast of India. It is surrounded by many beautiful beaches, including Bogmalo, Issprcim, Cola, Pale, Velsao and Cansaulim. The town has a very pleasant climate, which means a visit here is likely to be an unforgettable experience. The sunshine and the many palm trees add to Mormugao's appeal. The port also has excellent sports and recreational facilities.

Bombay, also known as Mumbai, originally consisted of seven islands and was inhabited by fishermen. Today it is an aspiring metropolis, surrounded by the ocean. Mumbai is a pulsating, vibrant city, always open to new ideas and lifestyles. Nevertheless, traditions handed down over centuries still lie hidden in secluded corners and bear witness to Mumbai's opulent past. In the shade of the stone wall against which the waves break along Marina-Promenade, you will occasionally come across a praying Maharashtrian. Bombay is also famous for its film industry, which produces countless romantic and dance films every year. Thus, it is not uncommon to encounter huge crowds blocking the roads in Mumbai, as they stop to cheer and wave at their favourite movie star. Sights include: the Gateway of India, the Prince of Wales Museum, Malabar Hill, Victoria Gardens, Elephanta Island, the Afghan Church and Flora Fountain.

The Arabian metropolis of Dubai has a population of 674,000 - 97% of the population of the United Arab Emirates. The city is the economic centre of the union, since it has the only natural harbour at the Persian Gulf. The city is also known for its oil wells. Over the last few years, Dubai has become increasingly popular among tourists since it successfully marries the atmosphere of 'Arabian Nights' with modernity and abstract architecture. Now the historically important buildings and areas of the city are being rebuilt and the trader's district of "Bastaktia" has already been completely restored. Dubai - a city of contrasts. In addition to the traditional places of pilgrimage, this westernised city is home to the only 7-star hotel in the world, "Burj al Arab". It is the tallest, most expensive and most exclusive luxury hotel on the planet and even its immense size and breathtaking architecture are sure to impress. Due to the city's affluence there is almost no crime here. The bustling international port is also a top-class shopping destination. Holidaymakers who enjoy sports will love the excellent sports and recreational facilities in Dubai. The golf courses, watersports facilities, sunbathing on the seemingly endless (and almost deserted!) sandy beaches and desert safaris are the most popular pasttimes. Other attractions in Dubai include: Jumeirah Mosque, the World Trade Center, the royal palaces, Dubai Museum, "Goldsouk" and the spice market.

Salalah, the capital of the famous province of Dhofar, known as the land of frankincense, is a coastal town in picturesque surroundings with both historic and modern influences and bordered by tropical beaches. This is the site, for instance, of Sumhurum, the ruins of an ancient city and what is thought to have been the palace of the legendary King of Saba. Coconut palms, papaya plants, banana trees and frankincense trees line the streets, since this lively city between the mountain ranges has a tropical climate. Sights include: the gold market, the fishing villages of Mirbat and Taqa, Job's grave and the caves of Mughsail Beach.

Aqaba is the only city in Jordan located by the sea. It was once the most important port at the Red Sea and connected the region with the Middle and Far-East. For seafarers this ancient city has been the gateway to South Arabia, Egypt, India and China since time immemorial. Aqaba is famous for its pink-coloured gravestones and temples, hewn straight from the sandstone cliffs. Other sights include the 12th century fort and the region's unique underwater world.

Its harbour and the small tourist village surrounding it are what give Safaga, around 53 km South of Hurghada, its unique charm. A special feature are the black sand dunes, an excellent spot for any sun-worshipper! The very salty water here is also said to have a particularly positive effect on the skin. Safaga is also considered to be a paradise for divers. The village itself has some small but excellent fish restaurants and lovely little souvenir shops.

Its harbour and the small tourist village surrounding it are what give Safaga, around 53 km South of Hurghada, its unique charm. A special feature are the black sand dunes, an excellent spot for any sun-worshipper! The very salty water here is also said to have a particularly positive effect on the skin. Safaga is also considered to be a paradise for divers. The village itself has some small but excellent fish restaurants and lovely little souvenir shops.

Since the opening of the Suez Canal, Port Said has been seen as the gateway to the East. The Mediterranean port is particularly popular among visitors due to the many duty-free shops and boutiques. Probably the prettiest city in Egypt, Port Said was founded in 1859 in connection with the construction of the Suez Canal and now has a population of 560,000. Although the city was destroyed several times, it has lost nothing of its charm, as many of the old houses with the large balconies on all levels remain to this day. Sights in and around Port Said include: Cairo, the Nile delta, the pyramids of Gízeh, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum and the Muhammad Ali mosque.

Limassol is the second-largest city and the largest port in Cyprus. The harbour houses the largest wine cellars and boasts a picturesque coast with several small bays that are perfect for swimming. The old town with its narrow streets and traditional Cypriot markets is the perfect place to take a stroll. There are lots of shops at the waterside too. The town is surrounded by many important historic sites, such as e.g. the Apollo temple or the excavations of the ruins of ancient Curium. The vibrant city of Limassol, located centrally in the Greek part of Cyprus, is the ideal starting point for excursions. From here you can enjoy a daytrip to various beautiful areas of the surrounding countryside.

The city was founded in the year 158 B.C. by Atalos, the King of Pergamon. Today, Antalya is the capital of the southern Turkish province of the same name. The city's landmarks are: the Yivli Minaret (dating from the 13th century) and the clock tower at the entranceway to the old part of the city with a city wall and the Hadrian's Gate (built in 130 A.D. to commemorate a visit by the Roman emperor Hadrian). There are lots of little winding streets, old buildings and mosques. The Bazaar in particular is the perfect place to take a stroll and maybe buy some gold or silver jewellery or a carpet. In the new town of Antalya you will find the bus station (Otogar), from where you can travel at little expense to all parts of Turkey.

Rhodes, the island of the Sun God Helios, is the largest and most popular island in the south-eastern Aegean. Due to its favourable geographic position it was once an important link between the Orient and the Occident. The 220 km long coastline is a mix between coves with beautiful flat sandy beaches and steep cliffs. The landscape inland is dominated by mountains, valleys and plateaus. Rhodes' history goes back more than 3,000 years. There are many archaeological excavation sites of ancient buildings, bearing witness to Rhodes' eventful past. Sights include: ruins from the Mycaean era, the ancient theatre, the gothic buildings, the round fort dating from the time of the Knights of St. John, the Turkish mosque and the Turkish baths.

The former pirate's stronghold Kusadasi has developed into a well-known holiday destination in Turkey. The many fish restaurants by the harbour, the tempting boutiques, oriental antiques shops, bars and pavement cafés at the beach promenade are characteristic of this town. Sights include: the old "Mehmet Pascha Karawanserei" which dates from the 17th century, the beautiful marina, one of the most modern yacht marinas in Turkey and the fort on the little island known as 'bird island'.

A world city with a unique character. A city filled with beauty and contrast, with a breathtaking history - from Byzantium to Constantinople to the present day. But Istanbul has more to offer than culture - inexpensive shopping, oriental cuisine or meeting new people are just examples of the many things one can do here. The city is full of buildings, monuments, churches and mosques, all steeped in history.

A world city with a unique character. A city filled with beauty and contrast, with a breathtaking history - from Byzantium to Constantinople to the present day. But Istanbul has more to offer than culture - inexpensive shopping, oriental cuisine or meeting new people are just examples of the many things one can do here. The city is full of buildings, monuments, churches and mosques, all steeped in history.