Travel from Bangkok through the beauty of Thailand, to the infamous River Kwai and onwards to Malaysia, colonial Georgetown and Fort Cornwallis, before crossing the causeway over the Straits of Johor to the elegant city of Singapore. 

Day 1 - Bangkok

The train departs Bangkok early evening. Having been welcomed onboard the gleaming carriages, settle into your comfortable compartment. Dinner is served as the train travels from city into the countryside with its rice-fields, villages and water buffalo. Retire to your compartment, transformed into a cosy bedroom by your steward.

Day 2 - Wang Po & River Kwai

Awake early in order not to miss the excitement of the train making its way from Wang Po along the wooden trestle viaduct beside a towering cliff.

On arrival at the River Kwai Bridge station, the E&O stops to allow you to disembark. Guides escort you on the short walk down to the jetty to board a local raft for a cruise along the lush greenery of the picturesque Kwai Yai river, passing under the Bridge. On board, a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the Thailand-Burma railway and the bridge. At the landing point you board a motor coach for a brief trip past the North Temple and Chinese Cemetery to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. As you explore the informative museum, the historian is available to answer questions. There is time to visit the Don Rak War Cemetery adjacent to the museum if you wish.
Rejoin the coach for the short ride to the Kanchanaburi railway station to board the Eastern & Oriental Express. Later reflect on the day's sights over dinner and relax with a drink in the Bar Car before retiring for the night.

Day 3 - Penang

After brunch the train arrives into Butterworth. Here coaches take you across to Georgetown, capital of Penang, on the local ferry. First stop is the Kho Kongsi clan house for a tour of the main hall and temple built in the baroque style of the late Ch’ng dynasty. This is followed by a trishaw ride through the interesting districts, passing colourful shophouses, elaborately-roofed temples, famous colonial landmarks and churches before stopping at the charming “E&O Hotel” for a refreshing drink in Farquhar's Bar.
Take the short ride back to Butterworth and rejoin the train. Spend the afternoon watching the passing scenery from one of the lounge cars or from the open deck of the Observation Car. Dine again in one of the opulent dining cars and then spend a relaxing evening in the Bar Car with its resident pianist. Spend your last night on board.

Day 4 - Singapore

After breakfast, soon it’s time to leave the train, having crossed the Straits of Johor into Singapore. 

12/09