Chennai (Madras), India     March 21, 2010
The morning is at leisure. After an independent lunch, join your fellow passengers for a never-to-be-forgotten visit to one of India’s most outstanding architectural monuments — Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magnificent shore-side temple and rock carvings stand on a beach, where ocean waves sweep in from the Bay of Bengal, providing excellent photo opportunities. The tradition of rock art carving continues today, with young sculptors training at the nearby government arts college under the tutelage of master carvers and temple designers. Embark the Spirit of Oceanus in late afternoon.

Galle’s historic district is one of the best preserved examples of a European-built fortified city in south Asia, reflecting both colonial and South Asian architectural styles. Enjoy strolling its cobblestone lanes, lined with galleries, churches and historic buildings of the Portuguese, Dutch and British eras. A walk along its ramparts offers stunning seaside views. Also explore the folk art museum, Poorvarama Temple and a traditional batik factory. Driving along the seaside, watch for fishermen perched on stilts in the surf, a uniquely Sri Lankan method of fishing.

At Sea     March 29, 2010

Explore Indian culture at its most vibrant on a walking tour of Tuticorin, one of the oldest seaports in the world. Known as the “Pearl City,” Tuticorin has been a pearl-diving and maritime trade hub for centuries. As you wander around this lively coastal city, you’ll encounter Our Lady of Snows Basilica, where in 1542 St. Francis Xavier catechized the Paravas, the region’s indigenous people.

The southern state of Kerala is one of India’s most exotic destinations. Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, has been a historic spice- and sandalwood-trading center for centuries. Explore Trivandrum’s old quarter, with its pagoda-shaped buildings, red-tiled roofs and winding lanes. Pass by the Padmanabhaswamy Temple (open only to Hindus), and visit the Puttan Malika Palace. Stroll through the small and charming fishing village of Vilinjam nearby, in this area of Kerala famed for its splendid beaches.

The Portuguese were the first to establish a colonial settlement in India, here in Cochin (Kochi) in the 16th century, to provide a base for their lucrative spice trading. The city is full of interest — with its well-preserved colonial houses, a 16th century synagogue, a stunning palace with murals from Indian religious legends, and numerous waterways linked by bridges and ferries. This natural harbor is separated from the mainland by seawater inlets and river estuaries. Take a boat trip through this network of waterways, offering an intriguing view into local life.

An important trading port with ties to the Persian Gulf dating back to the 14th century, Mangalore has been occupied by numerous dynasties and colonial powers. In this authentic and hilly Indian city, you see auto-rickshaws navigating busy streets, learn about the local cashew and coffee industries, view the Sultan’s Battery watchtower, and visit a Hindu temple in this sunny and casual tropical town.

Learn about Goa’s heritage, in this region which is a fascinating mélange of great diversity and harmonious coexistence between the Roman Catholic minority and Hindu majority. We explore this history with visits to churches and a convent, in this community which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At Sea     April 4, 2010