World Tour // Section South-East Asia: Bangkok - Bali ^1BB

Indonesia | Malaysia | Thailand

The smells, the nature, the colonial architecture – a tour for all senses.

Once arrived in Bangkok we will have a few days to get used to a new time zone and the tropical temperatures of Thailand. But soon it’s time to say goodbye to the bustle of the city as we head south towards Krabi. As we pass by many tourist resorts that most other people will only reach on a vacation package.

On our way, we will pass by giant limestone formations rising out of the green jungle, visit deep caves and relax on heavenly beaches. All of which will leave lasting impressions that will sustain us as we ride through the endless palm oil and rubber plantations of southern Thailand. This is truly a section of many contrasts. Malaysia is a contrast all on its own, with its relaxed small villages and modern, sometimes futuristic cityscapes: the Petronas Towers, multi- lane highways and glitzy shopping malls compete with small boutique hotels and green, quiet courtyards. As we wait for our motorcycles to cross the Malakka Straight we will have two days to explore Kuala Lumpur, before jumping on a plane to Sumatra to re-join our bikes. Leaving the airport in Medan is like stepping into a new world: the chaotic traffic, the never- ending cacophony of horns and shouts, the smell of petrol fumes. All these combine into a mix of overwhelming impressions that can seem almost scary. Our bikes are the perfect antidote as we set off into the green heart of Sumatra. Our first stop along our route is Lake Toba, located inside of one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. Who can resist a swim in a volcano before we continue our ride across the island? A major highlight is just around the corner. Shortly before reaching Bukkittinggi we will ride across the equator, a highlight for any serious biker! Riding along the relaxed western coast of Sumatra we head south and onto the ferry for Java. To avoid Jakarta and its immense traffic jams we head onto the twisty mountain and coastal roads of Java’s southern coast and make our way to Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java. Small, hidden roads offer us some real adventure as we make our way through the dense jungle up to the moon-like landscape of the Mount Bromo crater. Our last ferry ride takes us to Bali, where we will experience the fascinating culture and traditions of the only Hindu island in Indonesia. Nasi Goreng, Bami Goreng, Mahi Mahi and the rhythmic Kecak chants will be our companions on our discovery of this enchanting island. Impressive temples and picturesque rice paddies, the stark beauty of the many volcanoes, all combined with a fascinating culture make for a truly unique experience. Loaded with new experiences and amazed by the vast spread of South-East Asian cultures we finally make our way towards Denpasar, our final destination of this section.

At a glance

START/FINISH

Bangkok / Bali

DURATION

45 days vacation

ROUTE

Total distance: ca. 7.100 km / 4.400 miles

SOME HIGHLIGHTS

Bangkok, a big city that thrills in little
Hardly any traffic, but jungle, seasides and endless curves in the south of Thailand
Extreme contrasts in Kuala Lumpur
The volcano lake Toba - a sea in the middle of the country
Mount Bromo with its lunar landscape
Bali - touching nature and spirituality in a compact presentation
The friendliness of the people and the culinary diversity