In a world that's never been so connected and accessible, rediscovering the wonder of travel and the romance of a journey is something to be cherished.
The Orient Express has rekindled the joy of a rail journey in Europe, and its Asian subsidiary is on par, if not better, than its big brother.
The Eastern & Oriental Express (E&O;) is an enthralling premium rail experience that tootles down the tracks from Singapore to Bangkok, via Kuala Lumpur. Three countries in three days, a kaleidoscope of fast-changing landscapes, plus whistle-stop excursions to boot - if you can tear yourself away from the timeless and sumptuous cocoon of the E&O; train.
I was staggered to discover the stainless steel carriages were purchased from New Zealand Rail just over 20 years ago. In their previous life, they were the carriages of the Silver Star service, but now they are an ornate riot of Asian lacquer, wooden marquetry, tasselled lamps, teak panelling and brass fittings.
It is a triumph of old-school elegance, accentuated by the personalised service dispensed by the effervescent yet gracious Thai and Malay staff. The golden hospitality adds so much to the charm and mystique of the 2000km trip.
Pulling out of Singapore, you travel across the causeway that links the island with Malaysia at Johor Baru. A late-night stop in Kuala Lumpur allows you to catch a glimpse of the gleaming Petronas towers and grab a spicy snack from a street stall. Next stop is Penang and the colonial good looks of Georgetown.
Crossing into Thailand, the scenery change is stark. Just south of Bangkok, the second excursion takes you to the site of the old Burma-Thailand Railway, built by POWs and labourers during the Japanese invasion in World War II. More than 30,000 Allied prisoners perished while constructing the railway, and you'll see the war graves, the famous Bridge on the River Kwai that was bombed by the Allies, and take a raft ride on the river.
The train's sightseeing excursions are offered at no extra charge. The cuisine is first-rate, celebrating the regional flavours.
This is a trip of a lifetime. Savour every minute.
Singapore's first lady
How apt that your E&O experience begins with check-in formalities at Raffles Hotel, the grand dame of South East Asian hospitality. Singapore's leading lady has just celebrated her 125th birthday.
Despite being loaded with cutting-edge comfort, Raffles stays true to her roots with polished hardwood floors, heritage furniture, cool verandas and palm-filled gardens. Raffles evokes the romance of a bygone era. I particularly love how the hotel has a resident historian. Lap up some of the signature Raffles' experiences.
How could you not have a Singapore Sling at the legendary Long Bar? The fairy-tale prettiness of the Tiffin Room is well worth a visit, whether it's to partake in afternoon tea or the fabulous curry buffet.
Or, if seafood is your speciality, a great epicurean adventure awaits you in the Bar & Billiard Room.