pack of three MALAYSIA, SINGAPORE, BRUNEI
Between them, Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei pack in more than enough of the vital holiday elements that make Southeast Asia such an enduring big-
ticket destination BY BEN LERWILL
A
re your clients looking for a touch of exoticism, high-end resort hotels, a jungle experience and plenty of activities they won’t find
anywhere else in the world? If so, point them in the direction of three
very different Southeast Asian countries: Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Factor in the food, the shopping, and
numerous activities like trekking, golf and diving, and there really shouldn’t be too many obstacles to selling the three countries. What’s more, the region is renowned for being well suited to all traveller types, from backpackers through to luxury seekers and hardened travellers through to long-haul novices. And best of all, it doesn’t cost the earth. The three countries are, in many ways,
very different propositions. While Malaysia spreads itself between two main landmasses – the cultural richness of the peninsula and, across the South China Sea, the spectacular wilds of Borneo – Singapore is a comparatively tiny island state linked to Malaysia by a kilometre- long causeway. Brunei is a tiny country with a small population, dense forests and mangrove swamps. It is surrounded by Malaysia and has two parts physically separated by Malaysia, making it almost an enclave. The proximity of Malaysia and
Singapore makes them a popular option for a dual- or multi-centre trip – by air, by land or even on a cruise ship – while relatively low transfer costs coupled with some hugely attractive package deals allow the pair to be well suited to the current economic climate. Singapore – much like the Malaysian
capital Kuala Lumpur – offers a mix of shiny modernity and colourful tradition underpinned by a solid visitor
infrastructure. Large-scale investment means its allure as a leisure hub has increased significantly in the past few years, and the recent arrival of two vast integrated resorts, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, is further proof that the destination is worth substantial time in its own right. Malaysia, meanwhile, is simply brimming with holiday potential. Borneo is one of Asia’s most enticing spots, with its picture-book landscapes, its ethnic heritage and its pulse-quickening array of wildlife and adventure. The two Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak are laid-back and ripe for exploration; if clients are looking to throw themselves into a holiday that’s about more than getting a suntan, this is the place. Over on peninsular Malaysia, the
choice of activities is equally large. Perennially popular with visitors are the offshore islands of Penang and Langkawi, both of them home to classic Asian beach resorts. Brunei’s main appeal lies in unique attractions like the most intact primary rainforest in Borneo and its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, with its soaring mosques and water villages. To get to the aforementioned rainforest, best experienced in Ulu Temburong National Park, visitors take a thrilling boat ride between the capital and Bangar, which includes a brief stretch of the wide-open South China Sea.
WHAT’S NEW Earlier this year, the Singapore Tourism Board launched a new destination brand, 'Your Singapore', designed to
Clockwise from top: Vibrant colours in Brunei; Singapore's skyline; Siti Khadijah, Malaysia
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