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My solo media trip to Singapore with Asian Itinerary, dedicated to discovering the cultural and artistic soul of Singapore, led me to one of the latter: the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM). I had planned a reasonable visit. I ended up spending five glorious hours inside, a personal record for this trip

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Some museum visits are a quick walk-through, a tick-box on a cultural itinerary. Others demand you surrender to them completely. My solo media trip to Singapore with Asian Itinerary, dedicated to discovering the cultural and artistic soul of Singapore, led me to one of the latter: the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM). I had planned a reasonable visit. I ended up spending five glorious hours inside, a personal record for this trip, which meant my planned visit to the Peranakan Museum had to be postponed to later in the week. I simply could not tear myself away.

The museum’s permanent galleries alone justify a full day’s exploration. It is the only museum in Asia devoted to exploring pan-Asian civilizations, showcasing the artistic and diverse heritage of cultures from across the continent. The experience is thoughtfully curated across three large floors, each telling a distinct part of Asia’s story through trade, faith, and artistry.

Level 1: The Maritime Silk Road

The journey begins on the ground floor, where the Trade and Maritime Silk Route Galleries immediately transport you to an era of bustling ports and seafaring merchants. These galleries tell the story of how goods, ideas, and people moved across Asia’s waters, shaping the region’s history.

The undisputed highlight here is the Tang Shipwreck Gallery, home to the museum’s “star exhibit.” In 1998, a ninth-century Arab dhow was discovered near Belitung Island, carrying tens of thousands of ceramics, gold, and silver objects destined for the Middle East. The exquisite artifacts recovered from this wreck are a testament to Singapore’s historic role in global maritime trade and the sheer scale of exchange along the Maritime Silk Route.

Level 2: A Gathering of Faiths

The second floor is perhaps the most captivating, bringing the spiritual history of Asia into sharp focus. The Faith and Belief Galleries present a remarkable collection of Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian art, all in one space.

Here, you can see a tall bronze statue of a calmly smiling Buddha, alongside intricate depictions of Hindu gods like Shiva. A rare and masterful red sandstone Buddha from the Mathura school, dated to the Kanishka era, is among the museum’s prized possessions. The galleries explore how these religious beliefs spread and merged through trade, with artifacts showing the Virgin Mary depicted in Buddhist robes or donning Sri Lankan royal necklaces.

Level 3: Craftsmanship and Aesthetics

The third floor focuses on the decorative arts and the fusion of cultures. The Chinese Ceramics Gallery is a must-see, featuring over three hundred objects from earthenware burial goods to the finest Imperial porcelains. The ACM’s collection of lustrous Dehua porcelain from Fujian province is recognized as one of the finest and most comprehensive in the world.

This floor also houses the Fashion and Textiles Gallery, which often showcases the historic global impact of Indian textile production and its role as a medium of trade and cultural exchange with the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Of particular note was the Chinese Scholars Gallery, which explores the world of the literati—the scholars and officials who shaped Chinese culture. The gallery displays the “Four Treasures of the Study” (inkstones, ink sticks, paper, and brushes), along with scholar’s rocks, fine furniture, and ancient bronzes that reveal the taste and pursuits of this elite class.

A Sweet Interlude

My visit was further enriched by a serendipitous encounter with a special multi-sensory exhibition. The museum, in collaboration with tea brand CHAGEE, had curated “Garden of Senses: A Tea Reverie.” In a dedicated area, a knowledgeable guide from CHAGEE explained the exhibit in detail, showing us four types of tea to smell and sharing insights into the tea and coffee culture of Singapore. The showcase also featured art installations and artifacts related to tea, including a fascinating tea-brewer that makes tea in the same way it would make coffee.

After her engaging tour, she recommended I visit the CHAGEE store inside the museum to try one of their teas—an excellent suggestion I gladly took. Refreshed, I was ready to dive back into the permanent galleries to explore the parts I had missed.

A Serendipitous Encounter: The “Let’s Play!” Exhibition

My visit was particularly special as I was lucky enough to catch the museum’s special exhibition, “Let’s Play! The Art and Design of Asian Games”. This vibrant showcase features over 150 historical artefacts and contemporary works that explore the origins and cultural significance of games from across Asia.

It was fascinating to see how games like chess, mahjong, and weiqi are more than just pastimes; they are metaphors for life, tools for diplomacy, and expressions of power and status -7. The exhibition reveals, for example, that chess began in India as a war game called chaturanga, which eventually evolved and spread to Persia and beyond, giving us the modern chess we know today

A Final Verdict

Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the Asian Civilisations Museum offers an exquisite and profound journey through the heart of Asia’s cultural heritage. I recommend setting aside at least a good three hours for a proper tour. The museum is surrounded by manicured gardens along the riverfront, and the colonial-style Empress Place Building is a masterpiece in itself. It is a place where, as I discovered, a simple museum visit can easily transform into an unforgettable five-hour odyssey.

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I have always loved stones. Not for their price. For their secrets. When I enter a place like the Gem Museum in Singapore, something happens to me. My skin tingles. My eyes widen. I forget about time. Because gems are not just pretty objects – they are chemistry frozen into art, geological history compressed into crystal, and light trapped inside matter.

This tiny private museum, hidden inside a three-storey shophouse at 9 Perak Road, is Singapore’s first and most comprehensive gemology museum. It is also one of the most unusual museums I have ever visited – partly because you cannot simply walk in. Entry to the museum is free but you must register online and receive confirmation via email before visiting.

Normally, only the ground floor is open to the public. The upper two floors remain restricted. But on the day of my visit, as part of my Singapore media trip for Asian Itinerary, I was given rare access. A kind lady named Jo, who supervises the museum, took me upstairs to see the laboratory and the private collections that are still closed to most visitors. What I saw – and what I felt – I will not forget.

A Family of Gems

Mr Tay Thye Sun is an honorary recipient of the Fellowship of the Gemological Association of Great Britain

The Gem Museum is a family affair. It was founded by Mr Tay Thye Sun, a certified gemologist who has been in the gem trade for over 40 years. His son, Mr Tay Kunming, and daughter-in-law, Ms Loke Huiying, both certified gemologists themselves, now run the museum together.

The museum first opened in 2015 in a conserved building on Queen Street. In 2025, it moved to its third and current location on Perak Road – a move that allowed the family to consolidate their ventures under one roof: the elder Tay’s gemological laboratory and institute, and the younger Tay’s bespoke jewellery business.

Jo is the kind of guide every museum dreams of having

The Gem Museum is privately owned, but it is also part of Singapore’s Museum Roundtable – a collective of museums and heritage galleries that collaborate on exhibitions and programmes.

A One-Hour Journey

I spent about one hour at the museum, most of it with Jo. She is the kind of guide every museum dreams of having: knowledgeable without being pedantic, passionate without being overwhelming, and genuinely excited to share what she loves.

Jo explained the museum’s layout simply. The route follows the journey of a gemstone from mine to market in four stages: formation, mining and extraction, cutting and polishing (lapidary), and finally the trade and industry.

On the ground floor, I saw raw specimens from around the world. On the upper floors – the ones not yet open to the public – Jo showed me the laboratory where gems are tested and authenticated. I saw equipment I did not recognise, and stones so small they could fit on a fingertip, yet worth fortunes. But the most magical moment came when Jo turned off the lights.

UV Light: The Hidden World of Gems

Jo used a UV torch to get the gems to change color and glow

Jo picked up a UV torch – sometimes called a black light or an ultra torch. She aimed it at a row of ordinary-looking rocks. And suddenly, they were not ordinary anymore. Some glowed bright blue. Others flashed neon green. A few turned deep fiery red. This was fluorescence – the ability of certain minerals to absorb invisible ultraviolet light and re-emit it as visible colour. In normal daylight, these stones look dull, even boring. Under UV, they become magical. I stood there like a child watching fireworks. Jo smiled. She had seen this reaction many times before.

She explained that different qualities of gems – iridescence, luminescence, phosphorescence – all depend on their chemical composition. A ruby from Myanmar glows red under UV because of chromium. A diamond from Africa might glow blue because of boron. The same mineral can look completely different depending on where in the world it was formed.

This is what fascinates me most about gems. They are not just beautiful: they are geological postcards from specific places on Earth, each with its own chemical signature, each telling a story of heat, pressure, time and luck.

From the Earth to the Hand

The museum does an excellent job explaining the four stages of a gem’s journey.

Stage 1: Geology and Formation

The Earth’s rocks are divided into three types: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Gemstones of mineral origin are found in rocks or in gem gravels derived from those rocks. Some gems, like quartz and garnets, can be found worldwide. Others, like diamonds and rubies, are rare because they require very specific geological conditions – intense heat, immense pressure, and just the right chemical mix.

Stage 2: Mining and Extraction

For most minerals, only about 10–20% of total production at any given site is of gem quality. Mining methods vary from modern industrial operations to traditional techniques that have not changed in centuries. In Sri Lanka, miners still work underground by hand. In Myanmar, rubies are retrieved from marble matrices using simple tools. The museum displays photographs of these mines, and I found myself staring at the faces of the miners – tired, dusty, but somehow proud.

Stage 3: Cutting and Polishing (Lapidary)

This is where raw stone becomes a gem. The museum displays both uncut crystals and finished stones side by side, so you can see the transformation. A rough diamond looks like a dull piece of glass. After cutting, it explodes with fire. The skill of the lapidary – the cutter – is almost as rare as the gem itself.

Stage 4: Trade and Industry

Finally, gems enter the global market. Singapore, as a major trading hub, plays an important role in this stage. The museum explains how gems are graded, certified and sold – from the mine to the jeweller’s window.

What I Learned from Jo

As we walked through the upper floors, Jo told me about the museum’s geologists. They travel often – to Africa, to South America, to remote parts of Asia – in search of perfect stones. Not perfect in the commercial sense (flawless and expensive), but perfect in the geological sense: rare formations, unusual colours, crystals that teach us something new about how the Earth works.

The owner of this private museum, Mr Tay Thye Sun, has dedicated his life to gemstones. So did his father. Two generations of gem lovers. That kind of passion cannot be faked.

I asked Jo if she ever gets tired of showing the same stones to visitors. She laughed and said no – because every visitor sees something different. A child sees colours. A scientist sees chemistry. A jeweller sees value. And someone like me, a gem enthusiast, sees magic.

Practical Information

Getting There:

• MRT: Rocher Station (Downtown Line – Blue), Exit B. The museum is right beside the station.
• Bus: Several services stop along Jalan Besar or Serangoon Road, a short walk away.

Final Verdict

The Gem Museum is not for everyone. It is small. It requires advance planning. It does not have blockbuster exhibitions or interactive gimmicks. But for anyone who loves gems – truly loves them, not for their price but for their beauty and their science – this museum is a hidden treasure or, as Jo liked to put it, “a hidden gem”.

I spent one hour with Jo but I could have stayed three. I saw rubies from Myanmar, amethysts from Mexico, diamonds from Africa, and a hundred other stones whose names I have already forgotten but whose colours I will remember forever.

And when Jo turned on that UV torch, and the rocks began to glow in the dark, I felt something I have not felt in a long time: pure, childlike wonder. That is what a good museum does. That is what the Gem Museum did for me.

Disclosure & Thanks

My visit to the Gem Museum was hosted as part of my media trip to Singapore. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Jo for her time, her patience, and her passion. This article is for Asian Itinerary and, as always, all opinions, words and images are my own.

The Gem Museum

Address: 9 Perak Road, Singapore 208130

Telephone: +65 6734 3172 

Email: info@fegj.com.sg 

Website: thegemmuseum.gallery

Facebook: The Gem Museum Singapore

YouTube: The Gem Museum Singapore 

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During our Asian Itinerary media trip to Suphanburi, one of the most memorable stops was the Dragon Descendants Museum and temple. Nestled in this historic province, the temple is not just a place of worship but also a showcase of Thai heritage, mythology, and artistry. As an enthusiast of cultural travel, I was eager to explore this unique site, and it definitely exceeded my expectations.

The Significance of the Dragon Descendants Museum

The Dragon Descendants temple is a modern marvel that beautifully blends traditional Thai temple architecture with mythological storytelling. The museum aims to preserve and celebrate the legendary lineage of the Dragon descendants, believed to be ancestral figures in Thai culture. The temple is a symbol of spiritual connection, storytelling, and cultural pride, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Suphanburi.

A Brief History of the Temple

Built in the early 21st century, the temple was conceived as a cultural project to honor Thailand’s mythological roots. It was designed by local artisans and architects who sought to create a space that would serve both as a spiritual sanctuary and an educational hub. Over time, it has become a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists, especially after its inclusion in the Asian Itinerary media trip.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details

Dragon Descendants Museum and temple

Walking into the Dragon Descendants temple feels like stepping into a mythological world. The architecture is an impressive blend of traditional Thai motifs and contemporary design. The temple’s entrance is guarded by towering dragon sculptures, intricately carved and vividly painted, symbolizing power and protection.

Inside, visitors are greeted with murals depicting legendary tales of dragon ancestors, their heroic deeds, and their significance in Thai culture. The walls are adorned with detailed sculptures, gold accents, and vibrant colors that bring these stories to life. The temple also houses a museum area with artifacts, historical displays, and replicas of ancient relics related to the dragon mythology.

Experiencing Spirituality and Art

The temple’s tranquil grounds create an atmosphere of serenity perfect for reflection and spiritual connection. Visitors can participate in traditional Thai prayers, meditate in peaceful corners, or simply enjoy the lush gardens and scenic courtyards. The museum complements this spiritual experience by offering insights into the mythology that underpins Thai beliefs.

Photography is encouraged but should be done respectfully, especially during prayer or meditation times. Guided tours are recommended for those interested in a deeper understanding of the symbolism behind the artworks and exhibits.

Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
• Dress Code: As with most temples in Thailand, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
• Photography: Photography is allowed, but be respectful during prayer times.
• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the mythology and symbolism behind the artworks.

Why the Dragon Descendants Museum Temple Should Be on Your Itinerary

Visiting this temple offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience into Thai mythology and artistry. It’s also a testament to Suphanburi’s rich cultural heritage, often overshadowed by more popular destinations in Thailand. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or seeking spiritual solace, this site provides a meaningful and visually stunning experience.

Final Thoughts

Our visit to the Dragon Descendants Museum and temple was a highlight of the Asian Itinerary media trip in Suphanburi. It’s a place where myth and reality intertwine, offering visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s legendary past. If you’re exploring Thailand’s lesser-known gems, this temple should definitely be on your list.

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POP MART, in collaboration with the National Museum of Singapore and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), is proud to present the SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase — an immersive, thought-provoking exhibition that invites fans from around the world to explore the artistry and deeper stories behind the iconic collectible toy. Open from December 12, 2025, to February 22, 2026, this international debut marks the first time the showcase is hosted in Singapore, following a successful run in Shanghai’s Gate M West Bund Dream Center.

Key Visual – SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase

This landmark partnership—bringing together POP MART, STB, and the National Museum—highlights Singapore’s dedication to blending contemporary art, culture, and innovative museum experiences. The exhibition features a unique installation inspired by Singapore’s traditional bird singing pastime, adding a local touch to the immersive environment and offering visitors a fresh perspective on the city’s heritage.

Transforming Collectibles into Artistic Experiences

Produced by POP MART in partnership with Chinese artist Xiong Miao, the creator of SKULLPANDA in 2018, the showcase elevates collectible toys from mere objects to powerful forms of art and storytelling. Centered around SKULLPANDA, a character embodying questions and uncertainties about life, the exhibit explores six themes—Emotion, Fortune, Rules, Exploration, Life, and Direction—through multi-sensory installations and sculptures.

Justin Moon, POP MART’s SVP and COO, explains, “The SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE showcase embodies our commitment to supporting artists like Xiong Miao in delving into profound themes through collectible design. We’re excited to bring this to Singapore and share SKULLPANDA’s deeper narrative with a wider audience.”

Visitors can anticipate large-scale art displays, interactive zones, and environments where symbols like doors, locks, and keys evoke reflections on confinement, freedom, choice, and self-discovery. The exhibition not only celebrates collectible culture but also encourages introspection and dialogue.

A Cultural Bridge to New Audiences

This collaboration continues the National Museum’s efforts to engage with Singapore’s contemporary cultural movements through innovative exhibitions. Building on the success of the 2024 “Play:Date” showcase, which explored the theme of play and collectibles, the SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE exhibition deepens this exploration by highlighting the evolution and artistic potential of collectible design.

Chung May Khuen, Director of the National Museum, remarks, “Hosting the SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE showcase allows us to explore collectible culture as a form of contemporary storytelling. It offers new ways for audiences to connect with Singapore’s cultural landscape through art and design.”

Inspired by Singapore’s bird singing hobby, a cherished community pastime, the local installation introduces visitors to a lesser-known aspect of Singapore’s heritage, emphasizing how traditional practices influence modern creative expressions.

Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive of STB, adds, “International collaborations like this showcase demonstrate Singapore’s vibrant creative scene and position us as a destination for unique cultural experiences. By connecting local history with global artistic talent, we create memorable journeys for our visitors.”

Exhibition Details and Visitor Information

The SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase will be open to the public from December 12, 2025, to February 22, 2026. Early All Access tickets will be available from November 19, 2025, with priority access from December 12-16. These tickets include exclusive merchandise, available in limited quantities, with each ticket allowing for one purchase.

Standard tickets will go on sale December 1, 2025, with timed entry to ensure a comfortable experience. The first 4,500 visitors will receive a special Singapore-exclusive SKULLPANDA gift. Visitors can also enjoy a pop-up store at the museum’s Longer Concourse, offering additional merchandise and collectibles.

For more information, please visit our website or the National Museum’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

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Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the National Museum of Kandy is a captivating journey into Sri Lanka’s royal past and cultural grandeur. Located next to the revered Temple of the Tooth, this museum offers travelers a unique glimpse into the Kandyan kingdom’s history, art, and traditions. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual explorer, the museum provides an engaging experience that deepens your understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

An Overview of the Museum

National Museum of Kandy entrance

Housed in the historic Palle Vahala building, the museum is a beautiful blend of traditional Kandyan architecture and colonial influences. Built in 1840, this structure was originally the residence of Kandyan queens and is a testament to the craftsmanship of local artisans. The museum’s collection spans over 5,000 artifacts from the 17th to 19th centuries, showcasing weapons, jewelry, textiles, and everyday tools used during the Kandyan era.

The museum is a vital cultural institution maintained by Sri Lanka’s Department of National Museums. It not only preserves artifacts but also narrates the story of Kandy’s resistance to colonial rule and its significance as the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka.

The Historical Significance of the Museum

Dome shaped caskets used for storing relics

The origins of the National Museum of Kandy lie in its historic building, which served as part of the Royal Palace complex and was once home to the Kandyan queens. After the fall of the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, the building transitioned from royal residence to colonial administrative office before becoming a museum in 1942.

Today, the museum stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s resilience and cultural identity. It vividly recounts the kingdom’s history through its extensive collections, including a copy of the 1815 treaty that marked the end of Kandyan independence and the beginning of British rule.

What to See and Do

The museum is organized into eight sections, each dedicated to different aspects of Kandyan history and culture:

• Royal Ornaments and Dresses: Admire traditional crowns, jewelry, and regal attire worn by Kandyan royalty, including the attire of notable figures like Keppetipola Adigar.
• Culinary Tools: Discover ancient cooking vessels, utensils, and ceramics that reveal Kandyan culinary traditions.
• Weapons Gallery: Explore swords, shields, and cannons used in warfare and royal ceremonies, showcasing the craftsmanship of Kandyan artisans.
• Industries: Delve into local crafts such as woodwork, metalwork, and lacquer industry, with tools and artifacts that highlight daily life and trades.
• Artifacts and Sculptures: View exquisite ivory carvings, Buddha statues, and religious sculptures that embody spiritual and artistic expression.
• ’Pethikada’ and Coins: Learn about traditional storytelling through painted wooden planks and trace the evolution of currency in Sri Lanka.
• Special Exhibitions & Educational Programs: Participate in guided tours, lectures, and workshops that bring Kandyan history to life.

Ladles and cups made from coconut shells

Practical Information

The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry fees are affordable, with prices for locals and foreigners clearly listed. It’s conveniently located near the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake, making it easy to include in your sightseeing itinerary.

• Address: Kande Vihara Road, Kandy, Sri Lanka
• How to Get There: Walk from central Kandy, take a tuk-tuk, or visit as part of a guided tour.
• Entrance ticket for foreigners: 600 LKR ($2)

Tips for Visitors

• Allocate at least 1-2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly.
• Don’t miss the intricate royal regalia and ancient manuscripts.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake for a full cultural experience.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the National Museum of Kandy is more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience into the island’s regal past and cultural resilience. It’s a must-visit for anyone eager to understand the historical roots of Sri Lanka’s proud heritage. For more information and travel planning, visit the Sri Lanka Tourism Official Website

View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount

The Asian Itinerary team was kindly hosted by View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount, which offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Visit their FACEBOOK page HERE.

Metro Tours & Rent A Car

Asian Itinerary explored Sri Lanka by car, courtesy of Metro Tours & Rent A Car, proudly serving travelers across the island since 2005. With over 20 years of experience and a 4.9-star rating from 220+ Google reviews, they are a trusted name in car rentals, known for quality service and customer satisfaction.

WEBSITE:  https://metrotours.lk/ 

EMAIL:  metrotoursrentacar@gmail.com

WHATSAPP:  +94 777327285

The post Explore Sri Lanka’s Heritage at the Kandy Museum appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Ceylon Tea Museum Kandy

To watch all photos in the Gallery, click on the photo above here.

Nestled just south of the hill-city of Kandy in Sri Lanka, the Ceylon Tea Museum is housed in the historic Hantana tea-factory building and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the island’s tea heritage. The museum brings together donated machines from Sri Lanka’s estates, detailed history panels on tea pioneers such as Sir Lipton, and a final tasting that makes the visit memorable.

Exploring the five floors

Although many descriptions mention four floors, your visit revealed five distinct levels:

• 

  Historical panels profiling tea-industry

  Ground Floor: Step into the industrial heart – original rollers, dryers, sorters and fermentation tables once donated by local tea estates. These machines reflect the mechanics of tea production in the factory-era Ceylon.

• First Floor: Head upstairs to the library and museum displays. Here, you’ll find historical panels profiling tea-industry giants such as Sir Thomas Lipton and other 19th/20th century planters, and the evolution of Sri Lankan tea cultivation from colonial times.

• Second Floor: A deeper dive into machinery and process. Many of the vintage machines on this level were donated by several working tea factories in Sri Lanka, preserving real-world equipment for visitors to see up close.

• Third Floor: Tea-café with panoramic views; comfortable seating, a telescope pointing out across the hills of Kandy, and your included tea-tasting experience. Tea sales gallery and display of estate labels. This is where you can view and purchase high-grade Ceylon teas, perfectly placed before finishing with the café.

A guided tour that adds value

Thomas at Ceylon Tea Museum Kandy with Phadma the guide

A highlight of the visit was the tour led by the helpful staff — in particular Phadma, our guide, who explained each machine in the context of the tea-making process: from withering and rolling leaves to drying, sorting and packing. Her clarity, friendly attitude and English explanations made a difference.
I recommend spending time listening to her detailed explanations of how the machines donated by working factories still reflect real practice, rather than just static displays.

The tea-tasting finale

Our comprehensive tea tasting

At the end of the tour you’ll be offered a complimentary cup of the museum’s best black tea — a warm welcome. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for the 1000 LKR (~US $3) tasting of seven different qualities of tea, which gives you a real sense of flavour variation. Entry to the museum was only 1000 LKR (~US $3) at the time of visit — excellent value.
Tip: Arrive in the morning when the café views are best and the machinery displays are quieter.

Why it matters

The museum tells the story of how Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) became one of the world’s premier tea-producing countries — from the plantation era and experimental cultivation, to the modern industry. Exhibits cover the shift from coffee to tea in the 19th century, the work of planters like Lipton, and the role of estates and processing machinery in building the economy.
For tea-lovers, history buffs or those looking for a break from the standard Kandy attractions, this museum offers calm, retail-free contemplation and real insight.

Visitor Tips

• Get a tuk-tuk or taxi from central Kandy; the museum lies about 3-4 km on the Hantana road.

• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll climb a couple of flights of stairs and spend 60-90 minutes.

• Want a good photo? The top-floor café view of green hills is ideal.

• Tea purchas­ing: bring a little extra cash if you plan to buy a souvenir blend or premium estate teas at a 10% discount on the standard prices.

For more information, visit the museum’s official site here: Ceylon Tea Museum

View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount

The Asian Itinerary team was kindly hosted by View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount, which offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Visit their FACEBOOK page HERE.

Metro Tours & Rent A Car

Asian Itinerary explored Sri Lanka by car, courtesy of Metro Tours & Rent A Car, proudly serving travelers across the island since 2005. With over 20 years of experience and a 4.9-star rating from 220+ Google reviews, they are a trusted name in car rentals, known for quality service and customer satisfaction.

WEBSITE:  https://metrotours.lk/ 

EMAIL:  metrotoursrentacar@gmail.com

WHATSAPP:  +94 777327285

The post Visiting the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

One of my housemates, whom I rented with last year, mentioned that he did his internship at the Ranee Museum in Kuching, Sarawak, Borneo Malaysia. His statement prompted me to inquire further, though my knowledge was limited; to my understanding, the Old Court House presently comprises only two remarkable restaurants and a bistro. However, he merely chuckled, indicating that there’s more to it than meets the eye.

So here I am, embarking on the journey of exploring another heritage site in Sarawak. Yet, despite his revelation, I didn’t take any action. I continued to ponder over it until my office informed me about a Brooke Tour they had organised for us. Being part of the tourism industry, I thought, “Okay, let’s do it.” I believed it would be more enjoyable to go as a group rather than venturing alone.

As scheduled, we convened at the Old Court House – Ranee Museum right after lunch. An evening tour seemed ideal as we could all return home afterward, creating a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

Charles Brooke, Second Rajah of Sarawak

Similar to the Brooke Gallery, the Ranee Museum is affiliated with the Brooke Trust. If you plan to visit the Brooke Gallery, make sure to stop by the Ranee Museum first. Why? Because you wouldn’t want to miss witnessing the sunset at The Fort Margherita; it’s truly captivating and worth your time.

Now, what about the Ranee Museum? As the name suggests, the museum commemorates the life of Ranee herself, Margaret Alice Lili De Windt, the wife of the Second Rajah of Sarawak, Charles Brooke. Despite being born in France and raised in the UK during a much more modern era, she possessed a fervent desire to learn about and explore different cultures and places. At the tender age of 19, she embarked on a journey across the ocean to begin her married life.

A guide with visitors at The Ranee Museum

During her time in Sarawak, she immersed herself in the local community, learning about various customs, cultures, and beliefs. As a result, she was admired for her grace, humility, and friendliness towards the locals. The museum showcases a photograph of her alongside prominent Sarawakian women such as Dayang Lehut, Dayang Sahada, Mrs. Maxwell, and other attendants.

According to the museum curator, she greatly valued local customs, evident in her collection, which includes exquisite ‘Songket and Keringkam’ embroidery by the Sarawak Malay community.

‘Songket and Keringkam’ embroidery

Songket is a traditional woven fabric, while Keringkam is a type of Malay embroidery featuring gold or silver threads, typically worn as a headscarf by women. It’s said that she cherished this attire and continued to wear it long after leaving Sarawak. This sentiment is echoed in the personal possessions exhibited at the museum, including heritage textiles, paintings, crafts, and literature spanning 140 years.

Words alone cannot fully encapsulate her profound love for this nation. Therefore, I highly recommend a visit to the Ranee Museum to delve deeper into her remarkable journey. Similar to The Fort, there’s an admission fee, but if you opt for the full tour (both Brooke Gallery and Ranee Museum), you’ll enjoy a discounted price.

Opening Hours:

Monday – Sunday & Public Holidays: 9:00 am – 4:45 pm

WWW: https://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/ranee-museum

Admission Fee

Malaysian:

• Adult – RM10
• Child (7-12 yrs) – RM5

Non – Malaysian:

• Adult – RM20
• Child (7-12) -RM10

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Time-honoured techniques and rich visual storytelling form the core of new Batik (traditional painting and dyeing) classes at Avana Retreat, a resort set amid the homelands of the Hmong community. Led by a local Hmong artist, the complimentary and deeper-dive paid options are held at the property’s Stilt House, an on-site museum, to help guests connect with the local customs and traditions.

“If the waterfall is our property’s heartbeat and the spa is the soul, then our Stilt House is the spirit,” said Mr. Vu Huy, founder of Avana Retreat.

Stilt House at Avana Retreat

The same visual designer whose work graces the resort’s suites will lead sessions that introduce a beeswax art and indigo dyeing technique that has been used for generations in the surrounding highlands.

Complimentary 60-minute sessions are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday with guests learning about the beeswax painting process. Each participant, under the guidance of the teacher, uses beeswax to create their own unique patterns or they can use traditional Hmong designs on a 30 x 30cm cotton cloth.

The paid 2-2.5 hour class is a deeper and more hands-on experience that is available by reservation-only. It’s a more comprehensive introduction to the history, the patterns, the tools, and the technique. In addition guests usher their work through each step of the process, from melting the beeswax to creating the patterns on the cloth, to learning how to use the indigo dye and dyeing the fabric themselves. Each participant keeps the 45 x 45cm cloth that is created.

“While art is core to any culture among a community without a written language for generations, art becomes so much more,” said Huy. “Stories, dreams, myths, are all expressed through Batik in a way that words cannot capture.”

Batik Workshop Credit Bao Khanh

The location of the classes also inspires cultural exploration. The 50-year-old Stilt House, which was standing on the land now occupied by the retreat, was dismantled and rebuilt in a new location on the resort’s grounds.

It was then transformed into a museum to introduce the lives, culture and traditions of the local Thai, Muong, and Hmong ethnic groups. Walls and glass cases filled with tools, clothing, art and jewellery, tell the story of the people who live in the region. The Batik session takes place in the airy space beneath the museum.

Avana Retreat also offers a tour of a nearby Hmong craft village where guests can watch this intricate art being created with a deeper knowledge of the story behind it. Private workshops cost from USD50 to USD75 per person and are only available to in-house guests. For more information visit: https://avanaretreat.com/

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The Museum of the Future in Dubai welcomes people of all ages to see, touch, and shape our shared future. Go on a journey through possible futures and bring hope and knowledge back to the present.

This man-made marvel is not a museum but a time capsule that takes you to the future. Inaugurated in February 2022, it boasts an awe-inspiring steel exterior bearing inscriptions from His Highness Sheik Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Arabic poetry in a contemporary art style. The majestic spherical structure is column-free and arrests attention with its dramatic play of natural light.

Designed by the artist Mattar bin Lahej and designer Shaun Killa, this majestic aesthetically appealing beauty is a hat tip to humanity, earth and space. While the sphere represents humanity, the green mound represents earth and space is a void which is for the uncertain future.

Staying true to its purpose, high-tech research on the topics of big data analysis, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality and human-machine interaction is carried out here.

The exhibits are dedicated to the issues of climate change, the environment, health and well-being, spirituality, the future of human life and space exploration. This is one of the best among all the new museums around the world.

EXHIBITS

A digital Amazon

Immerse yourself in a mixed reality recreation of the Amazon rainforest. See the interplay of hundreds of species and observe details invisible to the naked eye.

A new moon

Voyage to a space station 600 kilometers above the earth. Gaze out the window and witness how the moon could be transformed into a source of renewable energy for the entire planet.

New explorers

Explore the space station and learn about the community of Pioneers living and working there. Observe the missions they undertake, study the things they invent and discover, and gaze upon the inspiration for it all – our beloved planet Earth.

The Library

Visit a DNA library of thousands of species, where you can explore, collect and contribute to the wonders of nature. Discover new species and participate in a global effort to repair the damages of climate change.

The future of wellness

Travel to a sanctuary from digital life. Explore a center for the human senses where you are encouraged to disconnect from technology and reconnect to your mind, body, and spirit.

The Centre

Experience the restorative effects of movement, meditation and water. Immerse yourself in vibrations that rebalance electromagnetic fields and restore our natural rhythms. Beneath a dome of light and water, place the present on pause and imagine what could be.

Opening hours:

10:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Location

The Museum of the Future of is directly adjacent to Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. We recommend you use Dubai Metro for the best access (Emirates Towers Station, Red Line). The link bridge connects the metro station directly to the museum. You can also use the Dubai Bus Service network. The best service line numbers are as follows: 27 – 29 – X22 Emirates Towers. You can also arrive by foot, bicycle or electric scooter and use the bicycle racks provided in the self-park area.

Museum Programs & Activities

Join our series of talks and events where innovators, scientists, and prominent figures from leading industries share their visions of the future.

Ticket pricing

All visitors, including those eligible for free admission, must book a time slot to enter the museum. Tickets provide full access to the museum experience and amenities. Museum tickets are available daily from 10:00AM to 7:30PM The price of a ticket is around AED 145 (about 40 US$).

Check out the Museum of Future website here.

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URA gallery

My visit to the Singapore City Gallery was entirely unplanned. A sudden downpour at 4pm cut short my afternoon wandering through Chinatown, and with rain showing no intention of stopping, I ducked into the nearest shelter. That shelter turned out to be one of the most enriching places I visited during my entire time in Singapore.

A City’s Story, Told in Three Floors

Opened in 1999 and housed inside the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Centre on Maxwell Road, the Singapore City Gallery is a quietly extraordinary place. It tells the story of one of the world’s most remarkable urban transformations — how a small, resource-poor island became a thriving first-world metropolis of six million people in the space of just half a century.

Singapore from present to future

Spread across three floors, the gallery covers more than ten thematic areas through audiovisual presentations, interactive exhibits, and architectural scale models that range from the beautifully detailed to the genuinely jaw-dropping.

The Central Area Model

The amazing island wide model

The centrepiece of the gallery — and one of its oldest exhibits — is the Central Area Model on the first floor. This is one of the largest architectural scale models in the world, and it earns that title. Every building in Singapore’s city centre is rendered with painstaking accuracy, including structures currently under construction and those still in the planning pipeline, such as the vast Marina South development. Once an hour, the model comes alive with a three-minute light and sound show that traces the city’s transformation from above. Standing over it, you get a genuine bird’s-eye view of an entire metropolis — something that never quite loses its sense of wonder no matter how long you linger. Click here for an online virtual tour to explore the Central Area Model up-close: http://www.ura.gov.sg/uol/citygallery/About/architectural-models/central-area-model.aspx

More Than Just Models

Central area model

Beyond the scale models, the gallery offers a rich variety of interactive and experiential exhibits. A panoramic show depicts the rhythms of daily life on the island. Other sections cover Singapore’s ambitious land reclamation programme, its conservation efforts, the careful preservation of heritage neighbourhoods, and the ongoing challenge of planning a dense, liveable city for the future. The information is presented with real creativity — this is not a dry archive. It is a genuinely engaging space that rewards curiosity at every turn.

Practical Information

The gallery is free to enter, fully air-conditioned — a blessing in Singapore’s humidity — and there is a restaurant and café on the ground floor for when you need a break. Over 200,000 people visit each year, and it is easy to understand why. Whether you have a passion for architecture and urban design or simply a couple of spare hours, this is time exceptionally well spent.

Entrance of URA

Singapore City Gallery Free Admission Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9.00am – 5.00pm Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Address: 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Centre, Singapore 069118 Tel: +65 6321 8321 Email: ura_gallery@ura.gov.sg Website: www.ura.gov.sg/citygallery

Getting There: MRT — Tanjong Pagar (EW15) or Chinatown (NE4/DT19) Bus — stops A, B, and C served by multiple routes including 61, 80, 131, 166, 167, and 970 Bicycle — 10 parking lots available at the URA Centre

Located very close to Maxwell Food Centre and a short walk from Chinatown.

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