Eastern & Oriental Express: Wild Malaysia & Rayavadee

On arrival in Singapore, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel, the Fullerton. Where majestic Palladian columns, marble-clad interiors, and opulent chandeliers create a refined atmosphere at this iconic hotel. Set in a grand neoclassical building overlooking Marina Bay its prime location places you in the heart of the city, with top attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore River just moments away. 

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast of local and international delights, before embarking on a guided city tour where you’ll discover the city’s dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Wander through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, where historic temples and bustling markets reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. In Little India, the air is filled with the scent of spices and the colourful facades of traditional shophouses create a feast for the senses. Contrast this with the modern marvels of Marina Bay, home to the iconic Marina Bay Sands and the breathtaking Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay. Along the way, visit a lively hawker centre to sample Singapore’s world-famous street food, from Hainanese chicken rice to savoury laksa. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure or relaxing by the hotel’s picturesque infinity pool.

Step aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express at Singapore’s Woodlands Station and enter a world of timeless glamour and adventure. The train’s iconic green and cream carriages exude vintage charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. Settle into your elegantly appointed cabin, where polished wood panelling, fine fabrics, and picture windows create a refined sanctuary. As the train travels north towards Gemas, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea served in your cabin, as you marvel at the unfolding landscapes of rolling hills, dense jungles, and palm-fringed villages—a tantalising preview of Malaysia’s wild beauty. Later, savour an exquisite dinner in the opulent Dining Car, where white linen, sparkling crystal and gourmet cuisine evoke the golden age of travel. 

Awaken to the rhythmic sway of the Eastern & Oriental Express as it winds through Malaysia’s untamed heartland. Sip on freshly brewed coffee and savour a delightful breakfast as the Jungle Railway unfolds outside your window—a mesmerising panorama of towering rainforest, mist-cloaked mountains and winding rivers. This morning’s journey takes you deep into one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests: Taman Negara, a primeval paradise formed over 130 million years ago. After a sumptuous lunch, the train arrives at Merapoh Station, where an afternoon of extraordinary adventures awaits. Step into the lush sanctuary of Taman Negara, where dense jungle and wide rivers shelter a dazzling array of wildlife, from playful macaques and hornbills to elusive tapirs and even the fabled Malayan tiger. Here, choose from a selection of immersive excursions: track the habitat of the endangered Malayan tiger alongside passionate conservationists, or join a nature photographer to master the art of capturing the rainforest’s hidden wonders. Alternatively, travel by e-bike to explore the region’s magnificent limestone caves or indulge in a soul-soothing wellness retreat, complete with forest bathing, sound meditation and sunrise yoga. As twilight falls, return to the train for an evening of fine dining, where each dish is a celebration of Malaysia’s rich flavours, followed by a night of vibrant local entertainment in the Piano Bar Car.

Savour a leisurely breakfast as the train glides towards the coast, soon, you’ll disembark for a scenic crossing to the fabled island of Penang, a cultural gem where history, art and cuisine intertwine. A selection of curated excursions invites you to explore this vibrant enclave. Art enthusiasts can weave through the timeworn streets of Georgetown’s Old Quarter from the backseat of a vintage Vespa, tracing the city’s eclectic architectural heritage and meeting visionary artists in their tucked-away studios. Meanwhile, food lovers can embark on a flavourful journey through the heart of Peranakan cuisine, meander through aromatic spice markets, selecting exotic ingredients, and master traditional recipes in a hands-on cooking class. Prefer to explore at your own pace? Set off on a whimsically guided adventure via tri-shaw, with a personal driver and map, allowing you to uncover Georgetown’s hidden treasures at your leisure. Rejoin the train at Butterworth, where a sumptuous lunch awaits and a chance to indulge in a moment of relaxation at the onboard Dior Spa. In the afternoon, an optional stop in Ipoh invites you to stretch your legs and soak up the atmosphere of this charming city famed for its colonial charm and captivating street art. As the day draws to a close, return to the train for an enchanting final evening, where exquisite dining, live music, and warm camaraderie ensure a truly unforgettable farewell to your journey.

Savor a leisurely breakfast in the Dining Car as the train glides through Johor, Malaysia’s southernmost state. Soon, you’ll cross the strait into Singapore, marking the end of your Wild Malaysia adventure, departing with memories to last a lifetime. On arrival into Singapore’s Woodland Station a private transfer will be waiting to escort you to your hotel in the city. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the city’s delights at your leisure, unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment, and spend a final evening at one of the hotel’s gourmet restaurants. 

Savour a final breakfast in Singapore with panoramic river views and a sumptuous spread, before a private transfer takes you to the airport for your onward flight to Krabi. From here you’ll be transported by road to Nong Nuch pier for the final leg of your journey, a scenic boat transfer to the shores of Krabi Marine Nature Reserve where the secluded sanctuary of Rayavadee awaits. Spend your days here immersed in Krabi’s natural beauty, the traditional two-storey pavilions and luxury villas provide a private retreat scattered amid lush tropical gardens just a short walk from the beach. Savour exquisite international and Thai cuisine served up beneath ancient limestone cliffs, and world-class spa facilities invite you to unwind in style. Explore the surrounding landscape during hikes through lush jungle trails, paddle-boarding across the crystal-clear waters or island-hopping excursions by private boat.

Savour a final leisurely breakfast amidst Rayavadee’s tropical gardens and coconut groves, before a private transfer will be waiting to transport you to Krabi airport to begin your onward journey.