Asia & Africa Mariner

Singapore, sometimes referred to as the "Lion City," is a vibrant, multiethnic city-state in Southeast Asia. Well-known for its spotless public transport system, profusion of open space, and ability to seamlessly blend a rich cultural history with contemporary comforts. Despite its tiny size, Singapore has enough attractions to suit the interests of all kinds of travellers. Read more about Singapore, Singapore

Malacca City (Melaka) is located on the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsula about 147 km S of inland Kuala Lumpur, and 200 km NW of Singapore. In earlier times Malacca was the greatest port in the region, as evidenced by its architecture that has been influenced by Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, British, and Thai traders. Even today it lies on the Maritime Silk Road between China and Pakistan. Read more about Malacca, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur - or KL as it is known - is situated midway along the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsula, and as the nation's capital city it is the focal point of the new Malaysia. The city truly brings together Malaysia's past and present and its varied cultures. Visitors can appreciate the evocative British buildings as well as the unbounded spirit of progress that symbolises Malaysia's unhesitating leap into the future. Read more about Port Klang, Malaysia

Penang Island is located on the NW coast of the Malaysian Peninsula, by the Strait of Malacca, while Penang State includes a narrow hinterland that is separated from the island by a channel. All tourists should visit the World Heritage Listed site of George Town. Take a trishaw ride or a guided walking tour to explore the nooks and crannies of George Town which, with its unique architectural and cultural townscape, and where every clanhouse and building represents a page of its colourful history, is definitely a ‘must-see’. Read more about Penang, Malaysia

Pulau Langkawi, the largest of 99 islands collectively known by the same name, is situated off the NW coast of the Malaysian Peninsula. Since being made a duty-free port in 1987, shopping here is cheaper than anywhere else in Malaysia. Yes, this delightful island's economy is primarily based on tourism. Read more about Langkawi, Malaysia

Phuket is the main town in the SE of an island of the same name, in the south of Thailand. This destination provides perfect silky-soft beaches, together with superb hospitality. With spectacular scenery and warm blue waters, it is not surprising that it is Asia's most popular beach destination. Read more about Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is the main town in the SE of an island of the same name, in the south of Thailand. This destination provides perfect silky-soft beaches, together with superb hospitality. With spectacular scenery and warm blue waters, it is not surprising that it is Asia's most popular beach destination. Read more about Phuket, Thailand

Hambantota is the main town in Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka. It is undergoing various development projects that form part of the government's plan to transform Hambantota into the second major urban hub of Sri Lanka, away from Colombo. Hambantota District is part of the traditional south known as Ruhuna. Read more about Hambantota , Sri Lanka

Colombo is the largest city, and the commercial, industrial and cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Despite its frenetic traffic and the general hustle and bustle of being where you can see some of the tallest buildings in Asia, it does offer some interesting attractions. In the northern part of the city you can find the British fort, dating from the 19th C, as well as the gracious old buildings of previous colonial eras. Read more about Colombo, Sri Lanka

Male, pronounced Mah-lay, is the capital of the island nation the Republic of the Maldives. This is the smallest country of Asia. The delightful skyline of candy-coloured skyscrapers and historic sites indicate that Male is both a city and an island. Read more about Male, Maldives

Mahe is the largest and most important island of the Seychelles archipelago. While this spectacular island is only 27 km long it is dominated by a mountain range with its tallest peak Morne Seychellois, at 930 m in height, being central to a wonderful national park. There are also some delightful marine national parks off the island. Read more about Mahe Island, Seychelles

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius, located on the NW coast of the island. The very large city is dominated by the Citadel from which almost the whole city can be observed, and it is surrounded by a range of mountains. The city as a whole is a place of interest, but of special attraction is the famous China Town, where many still dress in national clothing. Read more about Port Louis, Mauritius

Pointe des Galets is the principal port of Réunion island, a French island located in the Indian Ocean 680km east of Madagascar, and about 170km SW of Mauritius. Two thirds of the island’s western side is covered by mountain ranges. The 3,069m Piton des Neiges (Snow Peak) is the highest point. Read more about Pointe des Galets, Réunion

Maputo, a port city on the Indian Ocean, is the capital and largest city of Mozambique. The centre of many cultures - the Bantu and Portuguese cultures dominate, but the influence of Arab, Indian, and Chinese cultures is also felt - it is often referred to as ‘The Land of Smiles’. It has some beautiful beaches such as Catembe and Ponta d'Ouro, and is also home to a plethora of landmarks. Read more about Maputo, Mozambique

Richards Bay is a city encompassing one of South Africa's largest harbours, a 30 square kilometre lagoon of the Mhlatuze River, on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The deep water harbour has the largest coal export facility in the world as well as large-scale mineral and chemical exports. Tourism is a major industry, with the ocean beach a very popular kite-surfing destination, and a multitude of first class game reserves are within several hours' drive from Richards Bay. Read more about Richards Bay, South Africa

Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and is its busiest port. Its subtropical climate and extensive beaches provide excellent opportunities for sun-worshippers, surfers and swimmers. The Golden Mile, a wide stretch of golden sands, is artificially separated by various piers. Read more about Durban, South Africa

East London, affectionately called Buffalo City by the locals, is situated 1000 km from Cape Town on the SE coast of South Africa. Located at the mouth of Buffalo River, it is the only river port in South Africa. East London is a peaceful area surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. Read more about East London, South Africa

Located on the shore of Table Bay, Cape Town was the first European settlement in South Africa, and today is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Pristine beaches, sheltered bays and secluded coves encircle the majestic might of Table Mountain, a World Heritage Site and home to some 8,500 species of flowers. Be sure to get to the top of the mountain by taking the Table Mountain Cableway and absorb the fascinating views. Read more about Cape Town, South Africa

Located on the shore of Table Bay, Cape Town was the first European settlement in South Africa, and today is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Pristine beaches, sheltered bays and secluded coves encircle the majestic might of Table Mountain, a World Heritage Site and home to some 8,500 species of flowers. Be sure to get to the top of the mountain by taking the Table Mountain Cableway and absorb the fascinating views. Read more about Cape Town, South Africa