Compare Bangkok to Kuta: Summits & Sunsets by G Adventures vs Around the World: The Ultimate Journey by Vantage travel

Day 1 Bangkok

Arrive at any time and welcome to Thailand's famous capital - Bangkok! This evening, the famous Khao San Road is on the itinerary for your first night out. Explore this buzzing traveller hub with your CEO and check out the lively bars and dance parties that line the street. Grab a Thai beer or tea and connect with your fellow travellers. Don't forget to sample local delicacies, and try a deep fried scorpion if you dare!

If you'd like, get here early to get in some sightseeing. It's best to travel around by water taxi, since the streets are so crowded. We recommend Chao Phraya River for its excellent views.

Day 2 Bangkok/Surat Thani

Get on first-name basis with Thailand's capital city by bike with an optional bike tour. Today, you can check out Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, go for a street food crawl, relax with a Thai massage, or explore the klongs (canals) by boat before boarding the overnight train.

Day 3 Surat Thani/Khao Sok

See southern Thai hospitality in action with breakfast at G Adventures-supported Khao Thep Pitak Community-Owned Farm & Restaurant, where you can also meet other international visitors. Later on, enjoy free time. Opt to go to Lake Cheow Lan where you can take in the views while hiking or swimming in the national park. Spend tonight falling asleep to the sweet sounds of the jungle. This area is known for its natural beauty. You know what that means: lots of chances for photos.

Day 4 Khao Sok/Koh Samui

Your next stop is just a ferry ride away. Today, explore Ko Samui Island's beauty by catching the sunset at Chaweng Beach before eating your weight in street food at the night market. For your big night out, head to a popular beach bar, enjoy a drink on us to celebrate life-changing adventures, and dance the night away.

Day 5 Koh Samui

Take a scenic day trip to pristine Ang Thong National Marine Park. As a protected nature area consisting of over 40 islands, the views here are unforgettable — perfect for making friends back home jealous. Try to spot all the different kinds of marine life and explore above the water by foot or below the water by snorkel. Be forewarned: it might take you all day to take in all this beauty.

Day 6 Koh Samui/George Town

Gear up for a long day of travel. Ferry back to the mainland and continue by private vehicle to cross the border into Malaysia and on to George Town, Penang.

Day 7 George Town

Get a full day in Penang. Explore the busy streets and check out the colourful famous street art. Trust us: they make for a great backdrop!

Day 8 George Town/Chenderoh Lake

Learn about local culture (especially how to properly tie a sarong!) at this island homestay, nestled in the middle of a beautiful lake. Tonight, relax as you take in the scenery and connect with the family that runs this homestay.

Day 9 Chenderoh Lake/Cameron Highlands

Enjoy slightly cooler temperatures in the Cameron Highlands. Here, explore the well-marked trails through the lush tropical forest, visit a tea plantation, or search for the rafflesia: the world's largest flower.

Day 10 Cameron Highlands/Kuala Lumpur

Today is yours to take on. Walk around and explore, but don't skip trying the national dish of Malaysia, nasi lemak — a traditional rice dish made with coconut milk and pandan leaf. Once the sun sets, see another side to the city as you stop by the famous Petronas Towers (which light up at night) before checking out the local nightlife.

Day 11 Kuala Lumpur

You've got the whole day for exploring. Head out of town to visit the famous Batu Caves or the Orang Alsi Museum. Later tonight, head to some rooftop bars for drinks and dancing, or stop by the night market and find some flavours you never knew existed. Built in 1928 as a fresh market for locals, and revamped in the 1980s as an outlet for all Malaysian handicrafts, the night market is a local institution. Make sure you don't miss it.

Day 12 Kuala Lumpur/Melaka

Today if your day to take on the canals by boat, and see a different side of this old port town. Maybe stop for some famous chicken rice at Kedai Kopi Chung Wah in Chinatown. Locals love it here; they often line up for hours to get a taste. The streets of Chinatown (also known as Jonker Walk) are also lined with Peranakan (Straits Chinese) shophouses offering their traditional cuisine, Nyonya. Explore the many temples, churches, mosques, museums, and forts.

Visit the old port town of Melaka, wander the narrow streets and absorb the atmosphere of this historically important town. The streets of Chinatown are lined with Peranakan (Straits Chinese) shophouses offering their traditional cuisine, Nyonya. There are temples, churches and mosques, museums and forts to explore.

Day 13 Melaka/Singapore

Head to Singapore today, where you can use your free time to see that famous skyline by boat or eat so much street food, you can barely walk. For a peek into the city-state's past life, wander the old streets of Little India and Chinatown.

Day 14 Singapore/Jakarta

Fly to Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia and the economic heart of Java. There may be some travellers leaving the tour in Singapore and others joining in Jakarta.

Day 15 Jakarta/Bandung

Ride to Bandung and let the scenery guide you to some serenity. Floating villages, tea plantations, rice paddies, and hot springs —this side of paradise is looking mighty fine.

Day 16 Bandung

Spend the day with your group Ciater Tea Plantation. Try different teas and enjoy lunch looking out on the rice paddies. Hike to a waterfall and relax in the hot springs.

Day 17 Bandung/Yogyakarta

Watch the world go by on a scenic train ride to Yogyakarta. Once you arrive, and if you're not feeling too beat, check out Sosrowijayan and Prawirotaman Streets for unwinding with drinks and local eats.

Day 18 Yogyakarta

There's more to discover in Yogyakarta today! See some Javanese temples, the volcanic Mt Merapi, try street food like gudeg (curry made from unripe jackfruit), or soak in the last rays of the sun at the stunning Buddhist Borobudur temple complex — and make sure you don't forget your camera.

Day 19 Yogyakarta

There's more to discover in Yogyakarta today! See some Javanese temples, the volcanic Mt Merapi, try street food like gudeg (curry made from unripe jackfruit), or soak in the last rays of the sun at the stunning Buddhist Borobudur temple complex — and make sure you don't forget your camera.

Day 20 Yogyakarta/Ngadas

Take the scenic route to Ngadas via private vehicle. Here, you'll spend the evening at a local G Adventures-supported community homestay. Get a taste of local culture with a home-cooked dinner and time with a community leader to learn about the region's unique customs and history.

Day 21 Desa Ngadas/Bromo

Today's for reaching new heights. Start the day with a trek along the Ancestor Trail to Mt Bromo, led by a local guide trained through the G Adventures-supported capacity building program. Then get a chance to hike to the volcano's crater (and take some pictures!) before going on to the hotel.

Day 22 Bromo/Red Island

Skip sleeping in today for a pre-dawn hike across the Sea of Sand to Mt Bromo, where you can catch a final glimpse of the moon before the sunrise. Stop to breathe it all in before you head to a beachside surf camp. On your way to Mt Bromo, catch a breath and see the local Buddhist Tenggerese giving offerings to the Supreme God Hyang Widi Wasa.

Day 23 Red Island

Wake up and catch a wave on a morning surf lesson, then take the rest of the day to explore the nearby fishing village, surf some more, or rest easy in a beachside hammock.

Day 24 Red Island/Pemuteran

Head back to Bali for a chill day of relaxing on the beach. Sit back, grab a drink, and soak up some sunshine. This is the place for it.

Day 25 Pemuteran

No need to say goodbye to the beach just yet — it's another day of chilling out in Bali. If you'd like, break up the beachside naps with a snorkelling trip.

Day 26 Pemuteran/Kuta

Take it easy this morning before we cross rich tropical jungle and idyllic rice fields on the ride to Kuta. Catch up on sleep on the drive over — you're going to need it for your big night out tonight. Spend the evening getting to know Legian Street, the legendary party street. Grab a drink on us and dance the night away!

Day 27 Kuta

Today, it’s time to say goodbye to your group of newfound friends as this tour comes to an end. Be sure to sneak in some last-minute photos and exchange social medias before you head on your way.

Day 1:

Meals: Dinner

Fly to Los Angeles and attend a celebratory Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner. Your worldwide escapade awaits you!

Our epic adventure around the world begins with chauffeured limousine service from your front door to your home airport for a flight to Los Angeles, California. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your VIP concierge, who will handle your luggage and assist with your transfer to our 5-Star hotel in nearby Santa Monica. Relax and unwind with your fellow travelers this evening. During our Welcome Cocktail Reception and private Welcome Dinner at your elegant hotel, we toast the adventures to come on our trip around the world!

(Please be advised that you may be picked up in a limo, a sedan, or something similar, depending upon vehicle availability at the time and place of your pickup.)

Fairmont Miramar Hotel Bungalows or similar

Day 2: Explore the expansive Getty Villa’s museum and gardens, then fuel up for tomorrow’s flight with dinner at a chic eatery

Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch and 1 Dinner

After a morning at leisure on Day 2, we set off for scenic Malibu to visit the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Villa. Upon arrival, we enjoy a light lunch at the Museum. You can join knowledgeable docents for a tour of the Villa’s authentically recreated, first-century Roman Gardens. Enjoy the afternoon to browse the exhibitions and permanent collection dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria before returning to Santa Monica for dinner at a chic local restaurant.

Day 3: Fly overnight from L.A. and wake up in blissful Bali

Transfer to the airport for an overnight flight to Bali, crossing the International Date Line and losing a day during our flight. We arrive in exotic Indonesia.

Day 4: The spoils of paradise — check into your fabulous villa and enjoy an elegant dinner on the beach

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation:  Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay or similar

Today, we arrive in Bali — known as the “Island of the Gods.” But we’ll come to know it as “Paradise on Earth” as we enjoy white-glove service in its stunning setting. Upon arrival, we are greeted with a traditional Balinese flower garland before transferring to the luxurious all-villa Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, a legendary hideaway listed among Travel + Leisure's 500 Best Hotels in the World in 2014. Our tropical resort is set on a sweeping ocean bay amongst lush greenery and brilliant flowers. During your stay, you'll enjoy your own Balinese thatched villa with ocean views and a private plunge pool. Our first night in this wonderland begins with a Welcome Cocktail Reception at the resort, followed by a Welcome Barbecue Dinner at Sundara on picturesque Jimbaran Beach.

Day 5: Exploring Ubud: monkeys, markets, and a Brahman family home visit

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay or similar

Today we explore Ubud, the cultural and artistic heart of the island. We begin with a visit to the famous Monkey Forest to see the resident macaques, followed by visits to several  remarkable temples and the Neka Museum. Then, we follow the forest road — lined with colorful shops, boutiques, cafés, and galleries — stopping to try our bargaining skills at a local market.

Cultural Discovery: For lunch, we’ll enjoy Balinese hospitality at its best as guests of a highly respected Brahman family whose ancestors brought Hinduism from Java to Bali in the 14th century. Their beautiful, traditional Brahman home will give us an authentic glimpse into their daily lives. After returning to our hotel this afternoon, we can seek out dinner on our own at a local establishment.

Day 6: Discovering the heart of Indonesia with a Balinese school visit and trip to a royal temple

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay or similar

Cultural Discovery: After breakfast, we visit a visit Mengwi village, where you will interact with students at a local school. Afterward, enjoy a bus ride through scenic villages to the temple of Taman Ayun — a scenic Royal Temple of the Mengwi Empire, surrounded by a large fishpond. The beautiful, open landscape garden in the front courtyard welcomes all temple visitors — and is an ideal spot for a stroll. Lunch is provided at a restaurant in Puri Taman Sari. Cultural Discovery: This evening, enjoy a Balinese dinner and dance show at a local restaurant.

Day 7: Free final morning in Bali before flying — and settling — into Singapore

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation:  Conrad Centennial Singapore or similar

We have a final morning in Bali at leisure before transferring to the airport for our flight to Singapore, the cosmopolitan island-country at the southernmost tip of continental Asia. Cultural Discovery: Upon arrival late this afternoon, we are greeted in the traditional fashion with a special orchid lei presentation.

After, we transfer to our 5-Star hotel in the heart of prestigious Marina Bay — just a short distance from six of Singapore's most exciting malls. More than 1,000 shops, 300 restaurants, and an array of world-class attractions are right outside our door. Your bags will be brought to your room by our butler service. This evening, we gather for dinner at the hotel's renowned Golden Peony restaurant — famous for its perfect blend of sophistication, creativity, and authentic Cantonese cuisine.

Day 8: Enjoy a panoramic tour of Singapore hotspots, then take a trishaw ride before an indulgent dim sum lunch

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Conrad Centennial Singapore or similar

Singapore is known by many names, the Garden City and the Lion City among them. As we witness both its beauty and its might during our stay here, we get insight into these monikers. During our panoramic city tour, we’ll see the cricket club, historic Parliament House, Supreme Court, City Hall, and Merlion Park — featuring impressive views of Marina Bay. We delve a little deeper into Singapore’s diverse culture during visits to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, Little India, and the Yong Gallery.

Cultural Discoveries: This afternoon, explore the alleys around popular Bugis Street in “local” style during a trishaw ride. Then sample Singapore’s flavorful Chinese influence during a dim sum lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, you’ll have a chance to relax at your Deluxe hotel as you look forward to a lovely evening at the world-renowned Raffles Singapore — an Asian legend since 1887. With cocktails and an elegant meal, you’ll be sure to remember this special evening for many years to come.

Day 9: Relive the heyday of train travel aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, where you’ll wine and dine in style toward Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

We explore Singapore’s Botanic Gardens this morning. Founded in 1859, it is the pride of the city. After lunch on your own, we head to the train station to board the opulent Eastern & Oriental Express. Our onboard experience recalls the golden era of rail travel, when the journey itself was as enticing as the destination. We’re wined and dined while enjoying royal treatment on this train that was remodeled by Gérard Gallet, the man behind the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Our journey takes us past Southeast Asia’s lush and exotic vistas — past statuesque mountains, mist-covered lakes, and serene temples. View it all from the colonial-style teakwood observation car or from the luxury of your premium state cabin. As we make our way from Singapore to Bangkok aboard this magnificent train, we enjoy meals prepared by onboard chefs who incorporate the finest locally sourced ingredients into spectacular eastern and western specialties that rival the world's best restaurants.

Eastern - Oriental Express

Day 10: Soaking in Malaysian architecture in Kuala Kangsar; back aboard the train, you’ll cross the Thailand border

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning. our luxury train stops in Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia, the picturesque royal town of Perak and the official residence of the Sultan of Perak — one of the oldest hereditary seats in the Malay states. Our excursion begins at the Ubudiah Mosque, considered one of the country's most resplendent. Completed in 1917, it was designed and built by British architect Arthur Hubback, who applied the same Indian Mughal design elements to Malaysia’s Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur railway stations. Next, we visit the striking Royal Museum of Perak, an architectural masterpiece completed in 1931 as a temporary palace. Built without a blueprint and entirely without nails, its walls are woven from spliced bamboo strips with diamond patterns in the weave.

En route to the museum, we pass by one of the region’s oldest rubber trees, one of several brought from South America in 1882. When the auto industry boomed in the West, rubber trees became a highly lucrative crop. Our excursion concludes at the Sultan Shah Gallery, a former palace that now showcases the personal belongings of Sultan Azlan Shah, including court notes from his first case as a magistrate in 1958.

We return to the train before lunch, after which we stop to cross the Malaysia-Thailand border. Spend the rest of the day taking in the scenic landscapes on the way toward Bangkok. Dinner is aboard the train tonight.

Eastern - Oriental Express

Day 11: Cruise the picturesque River Kwai before arriving in Bangkok in time for dinner, then it’s on to Dubai!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We disembark our train in Thailand’s Kanchanaburi this morning for a cruise along the picturesque River Kwai. As we admire the riverside scenery, a local historian sheds light on the Thailand-Burma railway and the famous bridge immortalized in film and literature. We then travel to the fascinating Thailand-Burma Railway Center, an interactive museum, and have time to explore the Don Rak War Cemetery. Afterwards, we return to the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express for the remainder of our rail journey. Upon arrival in Bangkok, we savor a Thai dinner at the stylish Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel before our overnight flight to Dubai.

Day 12: Dynamic Dubai surprises and thrills as you explore this city on your own

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Fairmont the Palm Hotel or similar

Today, you'll arrive in Dubai, one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Having just arrived in another brand new place — with new sights, smells, and traditions — you'll have the day to unwind and take in the local culture at your own pace. Following lunch at a local restaurant and a short orientation tour in the afternoon, the day is yours to do as you wish. Gather for an included dinner at the hotel tonight.

Day 13: From architecture to malls to traditional markets, learn the ins and outs of enchanting Dubai with a local guide

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Fairmont the Palm Hotel or similar

Explore Dubai with your local guide, getting a glimpse at one of the world’s most glamorous and enigmatic destinations. A futuristic city with a deep connection to tradition, Dubai has its share of fascinating contradictions. During your full-day tour, see the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, considered the world’s most luxurious hotel; Dubai’s famous Palm Island, among the modern era’s most remarkable feats of engineering; and the picturesque city marina. You’ll also visit a large shopping mall featuring local crafts and authentic Arabic goods, and stop by some local souks (markets) — including the Spice Souk, Gold Souk, and Textile Souk. Following lunch, you’ll visit Burj Khalifa — the world’s tallest building — and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Join your travel companions tonight for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 14: Time to get rowdy with an off-road dunes excursion, followed by an outdoor dinner against the glow of an Arabian sunset

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Fairmont the Palm Hotel or similar

After breakfast, enjoy a morning at leisure to relax or explore this lively city. This afternoon, you’ll take to the desert for an exhilarating 4x4 desert excursion. You’ll venture through the undulating dunes of this sandy expanse, arriving at a scenic campsite. There, sip champagne as the sun sets over the dunes, and savor a delightful dinner in the warm glow of an Arabian evening. It’ll be an unforgettable conclusion to your Dubai experience!

Day 15: On the road again! Today Cape Town calls, and you’ll enjoy a private hotel cocktail party and dinner this evening

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel or similar

Our incredible journey continues today in Cape Town, nestled in a spectacular setting at the base of the flat-topped Table Mountain — one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Landing this afternoon, you’ll be greeted by our VIP concierge, who will assist with your private transfer to your Deluxe hotel. There’ll be time to relax and unwind before we enjoy a private cocktail party and dinner at the hotel, this evening.

Day 16: Climb Table Mountain via cable car, then learn about Nelson Mandela’s 18 years in prison on Robben Island

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel or similar

Our South African discovery begins with a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain. From its flat-topped summit, we have magnificent views of Cape Town, Robben Island and the ocean beyond. Upon returning to town, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, featuring the South African Houses of Parliament, Cape Town City Hall and the star-shaped Castle of Good Hope. Built in the late 1600’s by the Dutch, this historic fortress is the last surviving colonial building in South Africa. After lunch on your own, we board a boat bound for Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of the notorious prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. Our guide around the island is a former inmate, who will give us a firsthand account of life behind bars and show us how Mandela and his fellow inmates lived out their days here. Back in Cape Town this evening, we have the opportunity to try one of the city’s world-class restaurants with our exclusive Deluxe Meal Choices.

Day 17: From the oceans to ostriches, today you’ll explore Cape Town’s natural riches

Meals: Breakfast  and Lunch

Today, we head south to the Cape Peninsula, Africa’s southernmost point where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. En route, we stop at the Cape Point Ostrich Farm, a thriving breeding farm, where we learn about the life cycle of an ostrich from egg to adult. At Cape Point, we board a funicular to its great heights for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the stunning Cape Floral Region — a UNESCO World Heritage Site – where the famed fynbos biome supports enormous botanic diversity.

After a gourmet lunch at the stylish Two Oceans Restaurant, which offers some of the most stunning ocean views in South Africa, we stop to visit the world-famous penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach. Arriving at the hotel late this afternoon, we’ll enjoy a night at leisure.

Day 18: Cape Town as you please — discover this intriguing city independently

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: African Pride 15 On Orange Hotel or similar

Today, enjoy the full day to explore the city of Cape Town on your own. Following a day of independent discovery, we’ll bid farewell to Cape Town with a special African Extravaganza — featuring delicious local cuisine — at an area restaurant.

Day 19: Fly to Nelspruit, and check into your luxurious lodge inside Kruger National Park

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Shishangeni Private Lodge or similar

A completely different and thrilling African experience is in store as we continue our Deluxe adventure around the world: an authentic African safari in one of the continent’s most wildlife-rich national parks. After breakfast, we fly to Nelspruit, where our VIP concierge assists with our transfer to our safari lodge, situated on a private concession within the world-renowned Kruger National Park. All meals are included during our stay at this luxurious lodge, which features traditional cuisine to enhance our safari experience. We enjoy several private game drives during our stay in open safari vehicles with expert guides.

Day 20: Set off on morning and afternoon game drives seeking the “Big Five”

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation:  Shishangeni Private Lodge or similar

Unforgettable Moment: We’ll fall into the rhythm of Africa today with morning and afternoon game drives. Getting an early start to see animals when they are at their most active, we’re likely to spot giraffe and zebra today, and your driver-guide is highly trained to help us find the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, water buffalos and rhinos. We return to our lodge for lunch and a rest before heading back out in the afternoon. Throughout the day, we ride in open safari vehicles, affording us spectacular views of the pristine bush land that’s home to both predator and prey. Our eagle-eyed driver guide knows the cycle of the wilds here, and can lead us to spots where we’re likely to see magnificent animals.

Day 21: Last day of safari — keep your camera ready!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Shishangeni Private Lodge or similar

Enjoy a final safari day with two more private game drives through the park’s rich countryside. Kruger is a world leader in environmental management, and is the largest and oldest national park in the world, offering some of the most spectacular game viewing on the continent. More than 500 species of birds either live here or pass through, including vultures, eagles and storks. And its 147 large mammal species outnumber any other park in Africa. Keep your camera ready to capture them all, including cheetah, giraffe, hippopotamus, several species of antelope, and a wide variety of smaller animals.

Day 22: Transferring to the “City of Gold” with an afternoon at leisure

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Sandton Sun Hotel or similar

We enjoy one final breakfast at our safari lodge before a private transfer to Nelspruit airport for our flight to Johannesburg. Known as the City of Gold, Johannesburg and its two neighboring cities, Sandton and Pretoria, make up the country’s largest metropolitan area. We stay close to the city’s international airport, giving us convenient access for tomorrow’s flight to Argentina. We spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking advantage of the amenities on site, before savoring an included dinner at our 5-Star hotel.