Sailing Southeast Asia: An In-Depth Look at Norwegian Cruise Line's Itinerary
In October of 23’ I set out on a month long itinerary around SE Asia.
Taipei, Taiwan
Welcome to the first chapter of our Southeast Asia adventure! Our journey began in the vibrant heart of Taiwan, Taipei, a city that surprised us over and over with all it had to offer. After our flight landed in Taoyuan International Airport, we took an efficient ride on Taiwan's high-speed rail, a testament to the island's advanced public transportation system. We intend to explore the northern part of Taiwan for 5 days before boarding a sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line.
Our first stay was at the boutique Hotel Proverbs, nestled in a bustling area surrounded by quaint shops, cozy cafés, and vibrant markets, setting the stage for an immersive Taipei experience. You can read more about it here in my Hotel Review. The hotel's unique design and prime location made it an excellent base for exploring the city.
We then shifted to the luxurious Mandarin Oriental, which offered a distinctively refined atmosphere and a memorable cooking class with an award-winning chef, who customized a vegetarian option just for me! You can read more about the cooking class and luxurious stay here in my Hotel Review.
Taipei's culinary scene was a highlight, with a visit to the Michelin-starred Ya Ge restaurant. While the menu was a bit adventurous for our tastes, the experience was unparalleled. The city's Night Markets, known for their array of delicacies, presented us with the infamous stinky tofu and Michelin-starred food stalls, offering a feast for our senses.
A venture to Jiufen, an area that inspired the movie "Spirited Away," was a magical journey. The quaint town, nestled in the mountains, was well worth the bus ride and offered a stark contrast to the bustling city life. It’s known for its tea shops and markets. I wouldn’t leave Taiwan without a visit to this village!
Our exploration of Taipei's natural beauty included a hike up Elephant Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city, including the iconic Taipei 101. Despite being a popular tourist spot, an early morning visit allowed us to enjoy the serene beauty in relative solitude. Taiwan is actually one of the most mountainous islands in the world so if you have the time, I’d recommend venturing south to see more natural beauty.
Navigating Taipei was made effortless with the TPass, a convenient payment method for all public transportation, readily available at any 7-Eleven. Every walk through the city was a new discovery, from street markets with unique vendors to the simple pleasure of enjoying a bubble milk tea.
At the end of our days in Taipei, we ventured north to Keelung to board the Norwegian Jewel. Thanks to another trip on the High Speed Rail, we got there very affordably and conveniently thanks to our TPass cards.
Kaohsiung, Taiwan
The first stop of our 13-day cruise was Kaohsiung, a city at the southern tip of Taiwan, renowned for its rich temple culture. Although the main temple was closed for construction, we didn't miss the chance to explore the famous Lotus Pond. The Lotus Pond is a mesmerizing man-made lake encircled by an array of temples, pagodas, and statues. This tranquil location is famed for its unique architectural landmarks like the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions. The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are particularly notable, where entry through a dragon's mouth and exit through a tiger's symbolizes transforming bad luck into good fortune. Inside, murals depict moral stories from Chinese folklore. The Spring and Autumn Pavilions, dedicated to Kuan Kung, the God of War, feature a striking statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, riding a dragon, inspired by local legends. The area's beauty peaks in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the water, making it a perfect time for visitors to explore and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
A visit to the Sanfeng Temple was a serene experience, surrounded by hundreds of red lanterns. The temple's intricate details and the sudden chiming of the bells created a blend of tranquility and surprise. I would have liked to visit this temple after dark to see it glow with the light of hundreds of lanterns.
Currimao, Philippines
Our adventure in the Philippines, a new destination for Norwegian Cruise Line, started with a vibrant welcome at the port, complete with cultural performances. Eager to explore beyond the bustling port area, we opted for local transportation on the bus. The local bus, an incredibly affordable option at just one dollar for two people, and only about 20 minutes to the town of Badoc. This ride took us through small towns, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.
In Badoc, after getting off the bus, we found a TukTuk driver ready for hire. First things first, we needed cash, so we hit an ATM for some Philippine Pesos. The ride to the coast was quick, about 15 minutes, and we loved getting a closer look at some of the smaller towns off the main streets. At the coast, our TukTuk driver mentioned his cousins were out working on the coral. These guys, busy with their day's work, ended up guiding us to Badoc Island. It was an unexpected turn but interesting enough to see how these unplanned moments pan out. The boat ride us $20, which felt more than happy to pay. We agreed on a 4 PM pick-up, giving us a couple of hours on the island before heading back to catch our cruise ship's final boarding at 6 PM.
It was about a 10-minute boat ride that took us to the island. It was a serene paradise, allowing us an hour or two of blissful solitude and snorkeling before being joined by a local family. This encounter was a highlight of our visit. Despite the language barrier, the warmth and hospitality of the locals were evident. Their kind gesture of sharing duck liver and gin was a delightful and unexpected cultural exchange.
After our day on the island, we headed back to the ship. Other excursions offered for the day was a trip to the northern sand dunes and a cultural tour.
Manila, Philippines *Tagaytay
We ported in the town of Manila but immediately booked a taxi which led us on a two-hour journey to the vacation town of Tagaytay. Known for its breathtaking views of Taal Lake, Tagaytay offered a tranquil contrast to the vibrant chaos of Manila. Don’t get me wrong, the drive there felt like chaos but once at our destination, we had some moments of peace. I don’t know how i’d feel trying to drive myself around in the Philippines after this expereince.
The most striking feature of Tagaytay is its view of Taal Lake and the Volcano. I remember being fascinated by the unique natural formation - a lake within an island within a lake within an island. This geological marvel was intriguing, yet a bit of a tongue twister to explain to our friends back on the cruise ship.
Unfortunately, due to previous volcanic eruptions that impacted the region significantly, access to the island within Taal Lake was restricted. The aftermath of these eruptions had left a noticeable mark on the surrounding landscape.
With our time in Tagaytay being limited, we couldn't venture onto the lake for a boat tour. However, we found solace in a charming local café. At Sip N’ Brew Cafe, we sipped on brown sugar bubble tea and watched the panoramic views of the fog roll in over the water. It was peaceful, almost dreamlike because of the view. If you’re porting in Manila, I truthfully wouldn’t recommend going this route. We barely had time to make it back to the ship and 4 hours of our time was spent in a taxi.
Manila is known for its diverse food scene, shopping malls, and nightlife. I do wish we would have stayed to explore the city in hindsight.
Puerto Princesa
Our next adventure with Norwegian Cruise Line took us to the captivating Puerto Princesa, a gem on the north side of Palawan. The journey began with an hour and a half shuttle ride, winding through scenic roads that led us to a quaint port town. Here, the real adventure began as we boarded a motorized boat to a secluded beach, a gateway to the natural wonders ahead.
Upon disembarking, we were equipped with life jackets and hard hats, ready to delve into the heart of Palawan’s wilderness. The path through the jungle revealed curious monkeys, dense mangroves, and finally, the grand opening of the underground subterranean river system. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019, this site houses a sprawling 5-mile-long underground river, of which we explored a captivating 2-mile stretch.
The journey inside the cave was akin to a guided museum tour, enriched by an audio recording that provided insights into this natural marvel. The cave's interior was an enthralling world, with potential underground waterfalls hinted at by secondary river systems above us. The presence of rare fossils further illustrated the cave's ancient and fragile ecosystem, teeming with hundreds of thousands of bats – a reminder to keep our mouths shut.
Emerging from the cave, the relief of daylight was overwhelming. The extraordinary formations reminded me of El Nido at Palawan's northern tip, suggesting a shared geological history. If you’re not visiting Palawan with a cruise ship, you can easily book this excursion through Get Your Guide, which has become a trusted site for me as I personally book adventures with them regularly.
Boracay, Philippines
Boracay often hailed as the 'Hawaii of Asia,' was our next stop on the cruise. This island is a haven for beach lovers and vacationers from around the globe. We took advantage of the island's hop-on-hop-off bus system, a convenient way to explore Boracay's stunning coastline and its myriad of white-sand beaches which cost us less than $10 each for the day.
Our journey took us north to the picturesque Puka Beach, known for its relative tranquility compared to the more bustling beaches near the resorts. The beach's crystal-clear waters were a refreshing escape from the tropical heat, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation without the usual crowd of vendors.
Our group enjoyed simple pleasures like ice cream treats and cold beers on the warm sands. I dove into a snorkeling adventure, exploring the vibrant marine life around the cove for nearly two hours, even discovering a hidden cave system—a testament to Boracay's natural wonders.
A popular activity on the island, which I unfortunately missed out on, was renting a glass-bottom kayak. These kayaks offer a unique perspective of the underwater world, and the guides are adept not only at navigating but also at capturing those perfect Instagram-worthy shots.
Our day ended in a scenic spot along the coast, where we marveled at a keyhole rock formation. Choosing this picturesque location for an early dinner, we ate at We Chill Beach Restaurant which is part of a larger resort called Fairways & Blue Water. The food was okay but the fresh juices were great. After a 30 minute trip on the hop-on-hop-off shuttle we were back and ready to get on board.
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Our adventure in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, was a mixed bag of experiences. Starting our day at Jesselin port, we purchased an all-day ferry pass for about $10 each. They prefer cash but will accept card with a service fee. This pass was our ticket to exploring the islands, promising a day of island-hopping adventure in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. There is also a small fee to enter the park once you arrive on the islands which you only have to pay once a day.
Our destination was a wildlife reserve encompassing five islands, where we visited Mamutik and Sapi Island. Unfortunately, these islands were teeming with tourists, diminishing the serene island vibe we anticipated. To add to our disappointment, several popular snorkeling spots were closed for maintenance and due to low tide conditions. While we understood the necessity of these closures to preserve the delicate marine ecosystems, it was still a letdown since snorkeling was a primary reason for our visit.
However, the day wasn't without its highlights. The most unexpected and exciting part was encountering large, Komodo dragon-like lizards. These majestic creatures roamed freely among the beachgoers, offering a unique wildlife experience. This area of Malaysia is actually known for being a great place to spot animals like orangutans and elephants in the wild however I doubt you’d see any on the islands.
You probably don’t need more than an hour or two on each island. Despite the crowded beaches and restricted snorkeling areas, Kota Kinabalu presented us with a glimpse into the delicate balance between tourism and wildlife conservation, an important aspect often overlooked in popular destinations.
Brunei
Our visit to Brunei was an eye-opener in many ways. This small, oil-rich country, reminiscent of Qatar in its wealth, is governed by a Sultan and his royal family. The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, is renowned for owning the largest private car collection in the world. This collection is reported to consist of approximately 7,000 cars, valued at over $5 billion, a symbol of the nation's immense wealth. Brunei's citizens benefit from this prosperity through free healthcare and low unemployment rates, and it's not uncommon for residents to own multiple cars, given the low cost of fuel.
Our exploration took us to the mangroves of Brunei, where we encountered the unique proboscis monkeys, native to this region. These primates are particularly sensitive to dietary changes; feeding them anything other than their natural mangrove diet can be lethal. Watching these rare creatures from a distance was a remarkable experience.
Another fascinating aspect of Brunei culture we observed was the overwater village. Once a popular living choice, the government now subsidizes residents to move on land. However, the original owners still maintain these overwater houses. Every two years, a resident is chosen to host tours, providing them with a substantial income and an esteemed role in the community. Our visit there included sampling local delicacies, including various cakes and empanada-like snacks.
However, a distressing sight was the treatment of some animals in the village. Cats in small cages, suffering in the heat, raised questions about local attitudes towards animal welfare.
Nha Trang, Vietnam
Our journey in Vietnam began with a stop at Nha Trang, a bustling beach town known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views. We started our exploration with an expensive yet convenient $20 shuttle ride into the heart of the town, eager to experience its famed attractions.
One of the highlights of Nha Trang was the Sky Blue rooftop pool, acclaimed for being the highest infinity pool in Vietnam. Perched 40 stories above the ground with a glass bottom, it offered a breathtaking view of the coastline. The entry fee of just $4 for a day pass felt like a steal for such an extraordinary experience.
After soaking in the sun and the spectacular views, we meandered through the town, immersing ourselves in the local culture. We hopped from café to café, sampling an array of beverages, from traditional Vietnamese milk teas to other wonderful treats, each adding a unique flavor to our adventure.
As our time in Nha Trang concluded, we returned to our ship, which was anchored in a part of the ocean with a view of what was described as the "Disneyland of Vietnam." From a distance, we could see Vinpearl and the outlines of a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and even a castle, making the skyline a fascinating sight as we sailed onto our next destination.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Our next port of call was the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, also known affectionately as Saigon. Despite the excitement, our arrival was tempered by the port's location, chosen by Norwegian Cruise Line, which necessitated a two-hour taxi ride to the city center. The round-trip cost of $200, split among us, was a significant added expense, especially considering it was my birthday.
Once in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, we immersed ourselves in its vibrant urban landscape. Our first stop was the famous Cafe Apartments, a unique, modular building where each apartment unit is a different business. This place buzzes with an eclectic mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and more, creating a hive of activity and culture.
At Good Day Café, we enjoyed milk tea and espresso, soaking in the local café culture. Our culinary journey continued at 21 Grams Veg, a vegetarian restaurant where I savored a bowl of vegetarian pho and spring rolls, accompanied by a visually stunning tea that changed color from purple to blue.
Our exploration then led us to Dosh, known for its unique selection of doughnuts. We indulged in a fresh, fluffy blueberry doughnut before venturing on foot to Bui Vien Walking Street. This area, known for its vibrant nightlife, was bustling even during the day with mopeds and lively street scenes.
Seeking respite from the intense heat, we stopped at a local mall before visiting a popular marketplace famous for imitation designer products. It is called the Ben Thanh Market. While there, I purchased a dainty glass tea set and ceramic pho spoons. I highly recommend checking out the fruit vendors for fresh mango and mangosteen!
Although we intended to visit a sky deck for panoramic city views, time constraints led us instead to a local market, where I was charmed by kittens but resisted the temptation to take one home. Finally, we embarked on the long taxi ride back to the ship.
Singapore
The final chapter of our journey brought us to the dazzling city of Singapore, marking the end of our cruise but the beginning of an unforgettable experience. Disembarking in Singapore was bittersweet as we bid farewell to friends made on the cruise. Our stay at Naumi Hotel was the first highlight, boasting a rooftop pool with breathtaking views of Singapore's skyline. Although the iconic Marina Bay Sands was just out of sight, the panoramic city views during golden hour were nothing short of magical.
For my birthday celebration, we dined at a remarkable vegetarian restaurant Cultivate. I had the pleasure of trying vegetarian caviar for the first time. Paired with thick coconut cream yogurt, the dish was a delightful surprise and a culinary highlight. Colin's choice of a green bowl was equally impressive, standing out for its unique flavors. I highly recommend this dinner spot for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Not only was the food and juise fresh, the atmosphere was something out of a storybook.
Our exploration of Singapore included visits to some of the city's most iconic spots: the Supertree Grove area, the awe-inspiring Marina Bay Sands Hotel, and the lush Sky Gardens at Capita Springs. Each location added a layer of wonder to our Singapore experience, making it a fitting finale to our Southeast Asian adventure.
Singapore, with its blend of modernity, lush green spaces, and culinary delights, left an indelible mark on our hearts. It was a fitting end to a journey filled with diverse experiences, cultural encounters, and memorable moments. What an incredible place to end our Southeast Asia adventure.
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