Hark back to the great journeys of a hazy past, the sort that gave any traveller worth his passport a sharp zing of anticipation. It’s that magic which draws us to the Indian Ocean Spice Route, on which traders once hauled cinnamon, cassia, cardamom and turmeric. The Azamara Quest will be voyaging for 13 days via Mumbai (Bombay), Goa, Kochi, Maldives, Colombo, Galle and Chennai (Madras). Shore excursions include an immersive acquaintance with Goa (beaches, spice plantations, colonial architecture), Kochi (Mattancherry Palace, the backwaters, performances of Kathakali, Kalaripayattu and Mohiniattam, a stay at the Vivanta by Taj Malabar), the Kuda Bandos island on Maldives (bird-watching, snorkelling, fresh seafood), Colombo (overnight at Galle, and seven Unesco sites) and Chennai (Tamil culture, the shore temples of Mahabalipuram). Besides, enjoy a tranquil four days at sea, so that the luxurious distractions and onboard entertainment of the grand Quest aren’t neglected.
What: Azamara Quest voyage
When: Sailing on November 26, 2014
Contact: Tickets for $4,390; tirun.com