As Christmas and the New Year approached, we set out on what would be an unforgettable journey—a two-week, all-inclusive cruise with Marella Cruises aboard the Discovery 2. Our trip took us on a thrilling adventure across Asia, with stops in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. From the moment we boarded, it was clear this would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Flying in Style: Tui Airways to Singapore

We kicked off our adventure with a comfortable flight with Tui Airways into Singapore, the perfect gateway to our cruise. As we touched down in this vibrant, modern city, we were filled with excitement and anticipation for the two-week voyage ahead.

Boarding the Marella Discovery 2

Stepping aboard the Discovery 2 was like entering a floating city. We had splurged on a cabin with a balcony for this trip, knowing that two weeks at sea meant we’d want some space and a view to truly make the most of the experience. The cabin was perfect—comfortable, spacious, and offering a front-row seat to the ever-changing views of the ocean and the ports we’d visit.

Amazing Food & Friendly Staff

The cruise was an all-inclusive experience, and the food was nothing short of spectacular. Whether we were enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a lunch buffet, or a five-course dinner, the quality and variety were incredible. The staff made the experience even more special—so friendly, welcoming, and always eager to share their knowledge and make us feel at home.

We also met some wonderful new friends along the way, sharing stories and experiences as we sailed from one destination to the next.

Singapore: The Perfect Start to Our Adventure

We arrived in Singapore ready to explore this dazzling city. Our first stop was the iconic Raffles Hotel, where we indulged in a Champagne afternoon tea. The setting was elegant, and the delicacies served were a treat to the senses—scones, sandwiches, and cakes, all accompanied by an assortment of fine teas.

Next, we headed to the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, where we took a ride to the top of the towering structure. The panoramic views from the observation deck were breathtaking, and we savored a drink at the restaurant, soaking in the skyline of this incredible city-state.

Thailand: Patong, Phi Phi Islands, and Phuket

Our first port of call was Patong, where we took a coach trip to Phuket. From there, we boarded a speedboat to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands. The views were simply stunning—turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and soft sandy beaches. I even went snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and swam alongside colorful fish, an experience I’ll never forget.

Penang, Malaysia: Street Art and Culture

Next, we sailed to Georgetown, Penang, a city that blends rich cultural heritage with vibrant street art. We explored the town on a pedicab (a local tricycle), visiting some of the famous murals painted on the sides of buildings. The art was not only beautiful but also told the story of Penang’s history and people.

Kuala Lumpur & Batu Caves

After Penang, we sailed on to Kuala Lumpur, where we marveled at the Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world. The views from the observation deck were mesmerizing, showing the city sprawling beneath us. Afterward, we visited the Royal Palace, where we got a glimpse of Malaysia’s regal past. But the highlight for me was the visit to the Batu Caves, where we climbed the 272 steps up to the massive limestone cave complex. The views from the top were well worth the climb, and the cave temples were stunning.

Langkawi & Kilim Geoforest Park

Our last stop in Malaysia was Langkawi, an island known for its natural beauty. We took a trip to Kilim Geoforest Park, where we explored the lush mangrove forests and saw incredible wildlife, including monkeys, exotic birds, and unique plant life. The scenery was absolutely stunning, and it felt like we were in a nature documentary!

Returning to Singapore for the Grand Finale

After our adventures in Malaysia, it was time to return to Singapore for the final leg of our holiday. We spent two more nights in this incredible city, making the most of our time with a few more unforgettable experiences.

First, we visited the famous Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo. This unique experience allowed us to observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitats, with the jungle setting making the experience feel like a true adventure. We saw everything from elephants and tigers to various species of birds, all under the cover of night.

The next day, we took a stroll through the Gardens by the Bay, marveling at the futuristic Supertree Grove and the two iconic conservatories, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The sheer beauty and innovation of this attraction were beyond words, offering a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

To top it all off, we took a cable car ride to Sentosa Island. The views from the cable car were spectacular, offering a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and the surrounding coastline. Once we reached the island, we enjoyed the sandy beaches and relaxed, reflecting on the incredible journey we’d just completed.

Sailing to Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City

From Singapore, we sailed for two days across the South China Sea to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Vietnam. Our first stop was the War Remnants Museum, where we learned about the country’s turbulent history during the Vietnam War. The museum was both sobering and educational, giving us a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past and resilience.

Afterward, we visited the Bitexco Financial Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Vietnam. The view from the observation deck was stunning, providing a bird’s-eye view of the city’s sprawling urban landscape.

Back to Thailand: Bangkok’s Markets & Temples

Next, we headed back to Thailand and docked in Bangkok. We started our visit by exploring one of the famous water markets, where we glided through narrow canals on traditional longboats, taking in the colorful stalls and bustling atmosphere. It was a unique way to see the local life and purchase handmade goods and delicious street food.

We also visited some of Bangkok’s renowned temples, including the majestic Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha. The intricate architecture, golden spires, and peaceful atmosphere were awe-inspiring, and the history behind each temple was fascinating.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve on the High Seas

Finally, as we made our way back to Singapore, we celebrated New Year’s Eve in style. We were somewhere in the South China Sea aboard the Discovery 2, with an unforgettable pool party on deck as we rang in the new year. The atmosphere was festive, with guests dancing under the stars and watching fireworks light up the sky, the perfect way to celebrate this extraordinary journey.

Reflecting on the Journey