Essence of Malaysia by Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train

Day 1  Singapore to Kuala Lumpur          
Board the handsome green and cream carriages of the Eastern & Oriental Express at Woodlands Station, Singapore, and settle into your air-conditioned cabin. Cherrywood panelling, Malaysian embroidery and Thai silks create the perfect sanctuary. Admire the lush passing landscapes as your steward serves an exquisite afternoon tea in your cabin. Soon, evening falls and it’s time to dress for dinner. Savour the flavours of locally inspired specialities in the Dining Car, followed by engaging entertainment on board.            

Day 2  Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi          
During breakfast in the Dining Car, soak up the vistas as the train courses past the rice paddies and timeless rural villages of western Malaysia. After lunch, alight at Alor Setar station for a 25-minute boat trip to Langkawi’s Pulau Payar Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant underwater life, from parrot fish and angel fish to moray eels and grouper. Here, you will be provided with a luxury picnic set and have an array of options to choose from. Unwind with wellness experiences such as a massage, meditation and tai chi, try paddle boarding and snorkelling or stride off on an island walk. With a friendly welcome from the locals and access to a bar for cocktails and a barbecue, this is a true glimpse of paradise. Returning to the train, an evening of lively celebrations with local entertainers awaits in the Piano Bar Car, accompanied by a delicious dinner.            

Day 3  Langkawi to Penang        
Today you arrive in Penang Island, Malaysia’s cultural melting pot, where you have a choice of excursions. The first is a discovery of the culinary art of Peranakan cooking, where you will visit a spice shop and traditional grocery stores to purchase herbs and vegetables, before trying your hand at making some enticing local dishes. The second suits those with a passion for culture and art, taking you to Georgetown Old Quarter to see stunning temples, a contemporary studio and an opera and puppet house. Lastly, you can choose to explore independently. Armed with a map, a tri-shaw and a driver, navigate Georgetown’s picturesque streets at your own pace. Your driver will take you anywhere you want to go, from grand attractions to hidden corners. Rejoin the train at Butterworth for lunch and a leisurely afternoon on board. A final celebratory evening beckons with irresistible cuisine, entertainment and company. If you’re still up shortly after midnight, you’ll glimpse Kuala Lumpur as the train passes through.          

Day 4  Penang to Singapore      
Enjoy breakfast in your cabin or the Dining Car as you travel through the southernmost state of Johor, known for its beaches and rainforest. Soon afterwards, the train crosses the strait to Singapore, where you disembark with your magical memories.