From Skyline to Limestone: A Journey Through Singapore and Thailand

There’s a particular kind of exhilaration that lingers after travel—the sensation of still being slightly airborne, even once your feet are back on familiar ground. Freshly returned from Singapore and Thailand, I found myself replaying moments in my mind: the clink of champagne glasses overlooking Marina Bay, the hum of long-tail boats skimming turquoise water, the quiet power of elephants moving through jungle terrain. This was a journey defined not only by extraordinary places, but by contrast—heritage and modernity, city and sea, refinement and raw beauty.

My journey began in Singapore, a city that feels perpetually poised between reverence for its past and bold confidence in its future. I spent my first nights immersed in that duality at two of the city’s most storied addresses: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore and The Fullerton Bay Hotel.

Arriving at The Fullerton is nothing short of cinematic. Its grand neoclassical façade—once home to Singapore’s General Post Office—sets the tone immediately. Nearly a century old, the building carries itself like a grande dame, elegant and assured. Inside, the soaring atrium floods the lobby with light, while the hotel hums with life: restaurants, boutiques, even an art gallery, all unfolding beneath one vast roof.

My room, nestled between the hotel’s iconic columns, looked directly onto a hairpin turn of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit—a thrilling preview of the city’s transformation just days later. The accommodations feel classically styled and richly appointed, offering a sense of nostalgia without sacrificing comfort. One of the most memorable privileges was access to the Straits Club, where champagne breakfasts, evening canapés, and impeccable service blurred the line between indulgence and routine. (Another glass of Veuve? Absolutely.)

Just across the water—connected discreetly via an underground walkway—The Fullerton Bay Hotel offers a strikingly different experience. Built entirely over the water at Marina Bay, this boutique-scale sister property leans fully into contemporary luxury. Entering via the historic Clifford Pier—once the arrival point for immigrants to Singapore—guests are greeted by expansive views and a sense of calm sophistication.

Every room features floor-to-ceiling windows, and those lucky enough to secure a Marina Bay view room with balcony may find it difficult to leave at all. Afternoon tea overlooking the water was as artful as it was delicious, from sculptural canapés to an impressive tea selection (the vibrant purple Butterfly Pea was a highlight). The rooftop pool and dining venues are showstoppers, but the Lantern Bar, perched high above the bay, remains one of the city’s most sought-after nightspots for good reason.

Our days in Singapore were enriched by the expertise of ICS Travel Services, whose local knowledge opened doors to Chinatown, Little India, Gardens by the Bay, and the historic Boat Quay. And then there was Linda—our guide, storyteller, and source of constant laughter—who tailored each day effortlessly to our interests. By the time we left Singapore, it was clear why so many consider it the perfect gateway to Asia: approachable, impeccably connected, and endlessly rewarding.

From Singapore, we headed south to Thailand, landing in Krabi after a short, easy flight. The transition from city to nature was immediate—and unforgettable. En-route from the airport, we stopped short when a flatbed truck carrying an elephant rolled up beside us at a traffic light. Welcome to Thailand.

A brief car, then boat transfer, delivered us to Rayavadee, a secluded tropical sanctuary framed by towering limestone cliffs and bordered by three pristine beaches. Arrival here feels ceremonial: chilled coconut drinks harvested from the property’s gardens, jasmine bracelets perfuming the air, and a sense that time has gently slowed.

Guest accommodations take the form of private pavilions scattered throughout lush jungle grounds. Our mornings were spent over breakfast as monkeys leapt playfully through the trees above us; and days unfold between beach walks, poolside lounging, and extraordinary meals. In the evening, we enjoyed a stroll into nearby Railay village—a lively pedestrian enclave just minutes away—where music, bars, and local restaurants hum with energy.

One standout day was spent on the water, arranged by ICS aboard a private boat with a dedicated crew. We island-hopped through hidden coves, swam in crystalline inlets, and enjoyed a perfectly timed beach lunch complete with freshly made Thai iced teas, coconut water and more. It was the kind of day that defines a destination—and one I’d recommend without hesitation.

Though our time in Krabi felt far too short, the final chapter of our journey awaited in northern Thailand at Raya Heritage, just outside Chiang Mai. Set along the tranquil Ping River, the hotel is a study in intentional design—contemporary Thai aesthetics infused with serenity and care.

Every detail felt purposeful: from the textures and materials to the quiet surprises at turndown, even the service doors thoughtfully integrated into the architecture. Each room category offers its own appeal, with entry level rooms standing out with unique features that made them feel more like suites. Between meals, time on the grounds, and perhaps one too many visits to the beautifully curated gift shop, the hotel quickly became a true refuge.

With ICS once again orchestrating seamless logistics, we explored Chiang Mai by tuk-tuk, wandered night markets, sampled street food, visited ancient temples, and learned about Buddhist traditions. There was even a fish pedicure (touristy, yes—but irresistible).

Yet the most profound experience came on our final day: a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary. Dressed in rubber boots and armed with walking sticks, we hiked into the elephants’ natural habitat, observing them with quiet reverence. The care and respect shown by the sanctuary staff left a lasting impression—one of those rare travel moments that becomes a lifelong memory.