About This Journey

The stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal has enticed travelers for centuries; but you’ll soon discover that the Taj Mahal is simply the tip of the iceberg in a land full of grand palaces, captivating music, colorful fabrics and tantalizing, aromatic dishes. On this Journey, indulge your senses with an inland tour through India’s famous Golden Triangle, visiting the 3 cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, plus the ancient seaport of Mumbai. Your expert guide will lead you through multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, modern monuments, a local bazaar and more. You’ll stay the night in a former palace and revel in the excitement of an extravagant gala dinner, complete with local performers, camels and fireworks. In both India and Sri Lanka, you’ll sample their famous tea and indulge in flavorful dishes prepared by expert chefs. Then, while onboard the Celebrity Millennium, you’ll discover the pristine islands of the northern Indian Ocean, exploring the temples and rainforests of Sri Lanka and the beach paradises of Thailand and Malaysia. The local cuisine will slowly transition from Indian curries and naan to Asian spring rolls and pad Thai. After disembarking in Singapore, experience the colonial city that was England’s central hub of the Silk Road with a city tour, from the tropical Singapore Botanical Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the spectacular views from one of the city’s most unique architectural wonders. On this incredible 21-night Journey to India, Sri Lanka and Singapore, you’ll discover awe-inspiring wonders that will reinvigorate your sense of adventure.

Visits: Mumbai, Cochin, India; Colombo, Hambantota, Sri Lanka; Penang, Port Klang, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Celebrity Millennium; 35183, Warm Journeys

Included Features

• International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
• 8-night pre-cruise land program in India
  • Delhi, India – 2-night hotel stay
    • Welcome Dinner
    • Full-day tour of Old and New Delhi
  • Agra, India – 1-night hotel stay
    • Half-day tour of Agra Fort
    • Visit to Taj Mahal
    • Half-day tour of Fatehpur Sikri and Jaipur Transfer
  • Jaipur, India – 3-night hotel stay
    • Half-day city tour
    • Samode Palace Gala Dinner
    • Half-day tour of Amer Fort
  • Mumbai, India – 2-night hotel stay
    • Full-day culturual tour
• 1-night post-cruise land program in Singapore
  • Singapore – 1-night hotel stay
    • Full-day city tour
• Tour Leader throughout pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
• Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
• 12-night sailing aboard Celebrity Millennium
  • 10% Off Shore Excursions (see “Special Offers”)
  • Drinks, Wi-Fi and Tips are All Included on Celebrity Cruises

• Special Offer for Journeys on Celebrity Cruises—Ends 12/5!
  • Sail with up to $2,050 Onboard Credit, up to $650 Off per stateroom and up to a $200 Visa Gift Card with Exclusive Tips on 2024 Sailings + Drinks and Wi-Fi—All Included. Learn More ➤

What to Expect on Your Trip

Pacing

The overall pace is rather quick, as there is much to see in these regions. The pace of this Journey is more strenuous than most Enrichment Journeys, as the land program spans 10 days, each with at least a half or full day tour. Most days include two or three meals. In the case that only two meals are included, all hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine for the third, then have the rest of the evening to relax. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.

During the cruise you will have a mix of relaxing days at sea and exciting days on land to explore the port cities. You may choose from optional shore excursions, which will allow for cultural immersion, exotic meals and numerous activities.

Physical Activity

The land portion of the trip should be considered active, involving walking to numerous historical sites. Walking on different types of land, roads, and landmarks will be part of the trip, especially in India. Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways, and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.

Cultural Focus

India offers a rich culture, and eclectic combination of the old and the new. Dress in India and Southeast Asia leans more conservative. Be respectful and dress conservatively in religious places, especially temples and while on tour in India; it will be appreciated.

You will encounter dishes and ingredients typical to the region that you may not have encountered before, and you will be introduced to local artistry of the region. Indian and Asian cuisine may be considered spicy to Westerners with its use of various hot peppers and curry-based dishes. If you are sensitive to spicy dishes, please discuss with your Guide or restaurant staff before meals. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions, beaches and cities themselves can be crowded, especially while on the cruise.

Unique Factors

Be mindful of Asian culture and pack modest clothing. We ask that you please be friendly and polite when taking photos of locals. If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them.

Transportation

Included airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.

Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $50 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $50 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.
Transportation while on tour:

Delhi to Agra : 4-hour coach transfer
Agra to Jaipur: 5-hour coach transfer
Jaipur to Mumbai: 1.5-hour flight

Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.

Ask about receiving 10% off all shore excursions from Shore Excursions Group!

Special Offer for Journeys on Celebrity Cruises—Ends 12/5!

Sail with up to $2,050 Onboard Credit, up to $650 Off per stateroom and up to a $200 Visa Gift Card Exclusively from Us.

Drinks & Wi-Fi are All Included on Celebrity Cruises. 2024 departures also receive Exclusive Tips from Enrichment Journeys!

 

All guests must choose the same package type. View Celebrity Terms and Conditions. Offer expires Dec 5, 2023 or when sold out.

1-night Delhi Extension (pre-cruise)

Want an extra night to adjust to the new time zone? With this optional extension you will arrive to Delhi a day early and have one extra night to relax at the hotel before the tour starts. Note: tours are not included. Price of $190 per person, based on double occupancy, includes:

• 1-night hotel accommodations in Delhi with breakfast
• Private transfer from airport to hotel

1-night Singapore Extension (post)

Want more time in Singapore? With this optional extension, you will stay for one additional night in Singapore, giving you time to explore the city on your own before flying home. Note: tours are not included. Price of $150 per person (based on double occupancy) includes:

• 1-night hotel accommodations in Singapore with daily breakfast
• Private transfer from hotel to airport

Additional extensions to destinations like Bali and Angkor Wat may also become available at a future date. Speak to your Personal Vacation Manager for details.

The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.

Taj Palace, New Delhi

2 Sardar Patel Marg Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi, New Delhi, 110021, India

Telephone: +91 11 2611 0202

The Capital’s Palace Since 1983. Nestled amidst the heart of the historic Indian capital city, the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi has held a distinguished position amongst the finest hotels in the world for close to four decades. Spread over six acres of lush gardens, our 5-star hotel in Delhi is synonymous with timeless luxury and unmatched hospitality. Four award-winning restaurants featuring an array of cuisines from across the world, a stylish bar, nine-hole putting greens, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, and an expansive J Wellness Circle make Taj Palace, New Delhi, a true urban oasis. Indulge yourself with personalized butler service, exclusive access to the Taj Club Lounge, and other special privileges when you stay in our Taj Club Rooms and Suites. Host to the finest events and convention centre in Delhi, Taj Palace, New Delhi features the capital’s most coveted venues – a spectrum of 11 indoor venues and two manicured lawns.

Taj Hotel and Convention Centre Agra

Taj East Gate Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, Uttar Pradesh, 282001, India

+91-562-2335555

Agra’s newest landmark, the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, lies a short walk away from the Eastern Gate of the fabled monument. This modern 5-star hotel near Taj Mahal reimagines all that Agra can be. The luxury hotel in Agra has 239 plush rooms including 12 lavish suites and one presidential suite to whisk guests away into a world of repose. A refreshing rooftop infinity pool with magical views of the Taj Mahal, an invigorating spa, and a buzzing fitness centre are at hand to rejuvenate every guest. There is also an abundance of dining options to delight the epicurean.

Jai Mahal Palace

Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302006, India

Telephone: +91 141-6601111

The Jai Mahal Palace, which was built in 1745, is a stunning piece of Rajasthan’s heritage— a great example of Indo-Saracenic architecture set amidst 18 acres of landscaped Mughal gardens. Jai Mahal Palace has been the residence of three Prime Ministers of the princely state of Jaipur. Recently restored and refurbished, it is now a luxury five-star Taj heritage hotel equipped with all modern-day comforts. The 94 rooms and six suites offer unbeatable views of the city and palace gardens. Perfectly located downtown in the heart of the Pink City in Civil Lines, the Palace is close to the main shopping areas and prime historical sites such as Amber Fort, HawaMahal and City Palace.

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Apollo Bunder, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 001, India

Telephone: +91 22 6665 3366

The Taj Mahal Palace opened in Mumbai, then Bombay, in 1903, giving birth to the country’s first harbor landmark. The recently trademarked flagship hotel overlooks the majestic Gateway of India. This legendary hotel in Mumbai has played host to kings, dignitaries, and eminent personalities from across the globe, and is acknowledged as a world leader in hospitality. Each of the rooms 285 rooms & suites are a striking blend of nostalgic elegance, rich history and modern facilities. Strategically located in Mumbai’s prime historical and commercial hub, The Taj Mahal Palace is within walking distance from Colaba Causeway, known for its touristy tiny roadside shops.

Grand Park City Hall

10 Coleman Street Grand Park City Hall, Singapore 179809 Singapore

Telephone: 011 65 6336 3456

Located in a prime spot in Singapore’s Civic District and within the Central Business District (CBD), Grand Park City Hall is one of the top-notch 5-Star Hotels in Singapore, located a stone’s throw from major shopping malls such as Raffles City and Capitol Piazza and endless dining options. Suntec City and the Marina Bay entertainment and business district are minutes away by car. We look forward to welcoming you with our warm and loving hospitality.

Celebrity Millennium

Cruise Line: Celebrity

Since its inception in 1989, Celebrity has held true to its original commitment of taking the very best aspects of classic, elegant cruising and updating them to reflect current lifestyles. In 1997, they merged with Royal Caribbean International to form Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. What sets Celebrity apart from other vacation choices today is the cruise line’s passionate dedication to providing guests with a cruise experience that embodies modern luxury. This has become the definition of Celebrity Cruises and has set the worldwide standard for today’s expression of what first made cruising famous—high quality, superior design, spacious accommodations, grand style, attentive service and exceptional cuisine. Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of contemporary spaces that are at once coolly sophisticated and warmly inviting. Where the culinary experience is influenced by global cuisines and designed by their Michelin-starred chef. Where their staff provides seamless and intuitive service that’s both personal and unobtrusive. Where everything is designed to provide an unparalleled Relaxed Luxury^sm resort at sea experience. Celebrity’s 15 award-winning ships offer unique experiences in more than 300 destinations on all seven continents.

Ship: Millennium

Celebrity Millennium® is making even more waves in the cruise world with its breathtaking upgrades, and now as one of the first cruise ships in the world to receive a Four-Star Rating by Forbes Travel Guide. From adding brand new staterooms and elevating design concepts and technology across the ship to adding The Retreat®, an exclusive experience including The Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Lounge, the change is phenomenal. These new venues combined with our award-winning Luminae are sure to please. Slip into new eXhale® bedding featuring Cashmere™ Mattresses that will surround you in luxury—literally. Marvel at completely new bathroom modernizations. Wine and dine in reimagined restaurants and lounges, including the main dining room, Oceanview Café, Sunset Bar, and Rendezvous Lounge. Surrender your senses in the newly redesigned spa. Shop in new retail boutiques. Change the way you experience the world aboard Celebrity Millennium.

Celebrity Millennium is sailing with Starlink—the world’s most advanced broadband satellite internet—to bring you high-speed connectivity for a better onboard experience.

Before You Go

Money Matters

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

ATM Machines

These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.

Foreign Banks

Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.

Credit Cards

During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.

Incidentals

Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.

Packing Guidelines

Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances, and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.

What to pack

Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit, and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.

Here are a few key items to take on your trip:

• Raincoat/poncho
• Hooded jacket/fleece pullover
• Pants with pockets
• Skirt with pockets
• Hat with visor & sunscreen/bug spray
• Warm socks
• Sturdy sandals
• Practical shoes for walking/easy hiking
• Extra pair of prescription sunglasses and/or glasses (if needed)
• Camera(s)

Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.

Luggage Screening Process

To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.

Labeling

Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.

Carry-on items

In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit www.tsa.gov for a list of items that cannot be packed.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.

Cell phones

Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.

Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment

Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.

The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services, and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.

Medical Issues and Handicaps

As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.

Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.

If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.

Briefing sessions

A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.

Hotels

All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.

Regional Information

Travel Documentation

Have your passport and visas ready and available at all checkpoints. Scan and copy these documents to print out. It is recommended that you e-mail a copy to yourself and someone back home in the event these documents are misplaced. Also, it may be worth bringing an international ID or license.

Passport and Visa

To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition, and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons. As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information, and you should not rely on the information provided below to be the most current and accurate. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad, Travel.State.Gov, (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/, for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements.

You may also use a third-party visa service, such as CIBTvisas. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.

Note: as of July, 2022, most U.S. and Canadian passport holders traveling to Sri Lanka and India are required to obtain a visa. It is no longer possible to obtain a visa on arrival, however e-visas are now available. For India, make sure you obtain a multi-entry visa since you will enter twice (first for the Enrichment Journeys tour and then again during your cruise when the ship ports at Goa). You will also enter Sri Lanka multiple times during your cruise (three days at two different ports). Enrichment Journeys strongly encourages you to check your government website a few months prior to departure (and then again right before departure) to verify this information, as well as for all countries on your itinerary.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are recommended to protect one’s health from preventable diseases abroad. It is always good to have routine vaccinations up to date when traveling for ailments such as chickenpox, measles, and the flu shot. Use your own discretion when deciding on what vaccinations to have based on your preferences and personal medical history. During your Enrichment Journeys tour, the utmost care will be taken with prepared food, atmosphere and other elements, so the likelihood of contracting diseases is scarce.

For a list of recommended vaccinations based on destination, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or feel free to contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention directly at 1-800-232-4636.

Electric Current

You will need an adaptor for some parts of your trip.  To see what the plugs will look like at your destination, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/ and click on each country from the right menu.

You may also need to use a converter. Most countries outside of North and Central America use 220-240 V, whereas the U.S. and Canada use 110 V. However, most chargers these days have a box which will act as a converter so that it can be used in all countries around the world. If your charger box says “Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz” then you do NOT need to use a converter (but you may still need an adaptor so that the plugs fit in the socket).

Some hotels may have two and three pronged outlets to use for various appliances. Ship cabins also have outlets for you to use with their converter. However, we recommend having at least one or two adaptors with you, as we cannot guarantee that all hotels will be able to accommodate this.

Local Currency

India uses the Indian Rupee (₹), currency code INR

Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (Rs or රු or ரூ), currency code LKR

Thailand uses the Thai Baht (฿), currency code THB

Malaysia uses the Malaysian Ringgit (RM), currency code MYR

Singapore uses the Singapore Dollar ($ or S$), currency code SGD

Please visit https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/  for the current exchange rate.

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. We suggest having at least some local currency with you during the trip, at least enough to take a taxi if needed. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is customary in India. It is less common in Singapore, however always appreciated. For all locations, expect several instances throughout the hospitality industry that allow for tipping. Have small bills ready for hotel staff, boat crew, restaurant servers, drivers, guides, and baggage handlers. If you have a meal outside the itinerary or hire a resident driver, a few dollars in the local currency is customary.

Gratuities are included for group meals, at hotels, and at airports. The host, guide, or tour manager can be tipped roughly $8.00-$12.00 USD per person, per day. Onboard the ship, gratuities are already included when sailing with Celebrity Cruises.

For more information about when and how much to tip in each country, feel free to speak with your tour guide at the start of your Journey. A good reference for international tipping is https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2008-11-11/etiquette-101-tipping-guide.

Time Differences

Please be aware that you may be crossing through several time zones throughout your Journey. To view a time zone map, visit https://m.worldtimezone.com/m-index12.php.

Climate

With the tour covering various regions, you will mostly experience the tropical climate of India and Southeast Asia where you can expect warm to hot weather, occasional rain, wind and/or damp environments. In northern India, the dry climate can bring hot temperatures during the day and cool weather at night. Check the weather online before departing for an up-to-date look at the conditions in major destinations.

Many countries outside of North America use Celsius. Here is a °C to °F quick reference guide:

-5° C = 23° F	5° C = 41° F	15° C = 59° F	25° C = 77° F	35° C = 95° F
0° C = 32° F	10° C = 50° F	20° C = 68° F	30° C = 86° F	40° C = 104° F

High/Low Temperatures in Fahrenheit:

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

Delhi

69/46

75/51

86/60

98/70

103/78

101/82

96/81

93/80

93/80

91/66

83/55

73/47

Mumbai

86/64

88/64

90/70

91/75

91/81

90/79

86/77

86/77

88/77

91/75

91/72

90/66

Colombo

89/72

91/73

91/75

90/77

89/79

87/79

86/78

87/78

87/77

87/76

87/74

88/73

Singapore

87/75

89/76

90/76

90/76

90/78

89/77

89/77

89/76

89/76

89/76

88/76

87/75

Practice the Local Language

Knowing a few phrases in the local vernacular can be a wonderful way to connect with people and feel immersed in the culture. Here are some key words and phrases:

India: Hindi

• Namastey: Hi
• Alvida: Goodbye
• Hum kho gaye hain: I’m Lost
• Yeh kaisey diyaa? How much is this?
• Kshama keejeeae: Excuse me
• Shukriyaa (Bahut dhanyavaad): Thank you (very much)
• Hum kho gaye hain: I’m lost
• Kya aap meri madad kar saktey hain?: Can you help me?

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/hindi/ for more phrases with sound.

Singapore: While English is one of the official languages of Singapore and many of its residents are bilingual, Chinese Mandarin and Malay are also very common.

Chinese Mandarin

• nǐ hǎo (Knee how): Hello
• Zài jiàn (Zi gee’en): Good Bye
• Shì (Shr): Yes
• Búshì (Boo shr): No
• Qǐng (Ching): Please
• Xiè xiè (Sheh sheh): Thank you
• Búyòng kèqì (Boo yong sheh): You’re welcome
• Duìbuqǐ (Dway boo chee): Excuse me
• duō shǎo qián (Dor sheow chen): How much?
• Wǒ tīng bù dǒng (Wore ting boo dong): I don’t understand
• kuài zǐ (Kwhy za): Chopstick

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/chinese/ for more phrases with sound.

Thailand: Thai

• Sa-wat-dii: Hello.
• Sabaai-dii mái?: How are you?
• Yin-dii thii dai ruu-jak: Nice to meet you
• Karunaa: Please
• Khop khun: Thank you
• Chai: Yes.
• Mai chai: No
• Kho thot: Excuse me
• Thâo’rai’ or kii: How much, how many?
• A-ròi: Delicious

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/thai/ for more phrases with sound.

Malaysia: Malay

• Halo (Ha lo): Hello
• Terima kasih (terima ka say): Thank you
• ya (ya): Yes
• tidak (ti dak): No

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/malay/ for more phrases with sound.

Facts and Figures

Check out these interesting facts about the destinations you will visit on your Journey.

India

• The national fruit of India is the mango, and the national bird is the peacock, which was originally bred as a food source.
• 70% of the world’s spices come from India, and India is the world’s largest tea producer with chai as its most popular beverage.
• India is the birthplace of chess, or chaturanga in Sanskrit, which translates to “four members of an army”.
• There are six seasons in India’s Hindu calendar: (1) spring, (2) summer, (3) monsoon, (4) autumn, (5) winter and (6) prevernal.
• India has the second largest population in the world and is the world’s largest democracy.

Sri Lanka

• Due to its shape, Sri Lanka is known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” and the “Teardrop of India”.
• Sri Lanka’s primary power source is hydro-energy, utilizing its abundance of waterfalls.
• Until 1972, Sri Lanka was named Ceylon.
• Sri Lanka is home to the largest and darkest subspecies of the Asian elephant.

Thailand

• Thailand’s name in the Thai language is Prathet Thai, which means “Land of the Free”.
• The world’s smallest mammal, the Craseonycteris thonglongyai (the bumble bat), is found in Thailand.
• Thailand shares a border with four countries: Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the north and west, Laos to the north and east, Cambodia to the southeast, and Malaysia to the south.
• In the past, all Thai young men including the kings became Buddhist monks for at least a short period of time before their 20th birthday. Today, fewer young men observe the practice.

Malaysia

• Malaysia is made up of two noncontiguous regions: West Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula, which consists of 11 states, and East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo, which consists of two states.
• Malaysia’s national dish is Nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, often served wrapped in a banana leaf, and usually eaten for breakfast.
• Some buildings in Malaysia do not have a fourth floor. They are replaced by “3A” as the sound of four (sì) is similar to the sound of death in Chinese (sĭ).
• Malaysia is the world’s third largest natural rubber producer. It is also famous for being the world’s largest supplier of rubber gloves.
• Malay brides wear their engagement rings on the fourth finger of their right hand. The ring is placed there by a senior female relative of the groom, instead of the groom himself.

Singapore

• Singapore consists only of one main island and 63 other tiny islands with a population of 4.6 million people. Most of these islands are uninhabited.
• Although English is the official working language and the most widely used language in Singapore, the national anthem “Majulah Singapura” is actually sung in Malay.
• The Singapore Sling was first served in 1915 at the Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel. The ingredients are gin, Cointreau, cherry brandy, Dom Benedictine, pineapple juice, Grenadine, Angoustura bitters and limes.

Recommended Reading List

Vacation should be easy, peaceful and, most of all, completely stress-free. Let us handle the details, so you can sit back, relax and curl up with a good book as you count down the days to your next Journey! We’ve compiled the following list of books and movies to introduce you to the destinations you are about to visit.

Books

• Singapore: Ghost Train to the Eastern Star by Paul Theoux
• Singapore: The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew by Lee Kuan Yew
• Singapore: Crossroads: A Popular History of Malaysia & Singapore by Jim Baker
• Sri Lanka: Island of a Thousand Mirrors by Nayomi Munaweera
• India: Kim by Rudyard Kipling
• India: Teatime for the Firefly by Shona Patel
• India: After Gandhi: The History of the World’s Largest Democracy by Ramachandra Guha
• Malaysia: A History of Malaysia by Barbara Watson

Travel Guides

• All countries: Lonely Planet Travel Guides- https://www.lonelyplanet.com/places
• All countries: Nomadic Matt Travel Guides- https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/

Films

• India: Eat Pray Love (2010)
• India: Life of Pi (2012)
• India: Million Dollar Arm (2014)
• India: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
• Malaysia: Anna and the King (1999) was filmed in Malaysia
• Malaysia: Entrapment (1999)
• Malaysia: Sandokan (1976)
• Singapore: Saint Jack (1979)

eJourney Guide

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• Detailed Destination Information
• Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Preparing for Your Trip
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Local Cultural Information
• Recommended Readings
• And so much more!

As always, our friendly and dependable Personal Vacation Managers are committed to assisting you every step of the way.