Bowers Museum
Welcome to Singapore! Upon arrival, please proceed through standard arrival formalities, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs clearance.Please refer to the Singapore Special Program Notes in your ATJ Sign-Up Packet & Travel Guide for important entry requirements. All foreign visitors to Singapore are required to complete the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) within 3 days prior to their arrival in Singapore. This is a mandatory step for entry and should be submitted online before your departure.Once you exit into the main arrival hall, a local representative from ATJ will be waiting to greet all arriving group members. You will then be privately transferred to our centrally located hotel for check-in. After getting settled, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure—an ideal opportunity to rest and recover from your international flight.Please note that standard check-in time at the hotel is 3:00 PM (15:00). For those arriving earlier, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until rooms are ready. If you anticipate a significantly early arrival and would prefer to access your room immediately, guaranteed early check-in can be arranged in advance at an additional cost of $380.00 per room, or $190.00 per person based on double occupancy and $360.00 per night based on single occupancy. We recommend pre-booking early check-in for maximum comfort following your flight, particularly for arrivals in the early morning hours. Otherwise, you may have to wait many hours until your room is available.Overnight at Swissôtel The Stamford (Standard Rooms) – SingaporeSwissôtel The Stamford is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Singapore’s Civic District, offering spectacular views of Marina Bay, the city skyline, and beyond. As one of Southeast Asia’s tallest hotels, it features over 1,200 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed for both comfort and style. The hotel is part of the integrated Raffles City complex, giving guests direct access to a wide array of dining, shopping, and transport options—including a direct link to City Hall MRT station. With award-winning restaurants, a world-class spa, and extensive recreational facilities, Swissôtel The Stamford provides a seamless blend of Swiss hospitality and Singaporean sophistication, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.
This morning is free to relax, sleep in after your long international flights and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.Early this afternoon we depart the hotel at 12:00 PM and embark on an afternoon highlights tour of Singapore by private bus. While Singapore is known today as a dynamic global city and financial hub, this tour reveals the rich tapestry of cultural influences that have shaped it—from Chinese and Malay to Indian, Arab, and British heritage.Begin with a scenic drive through the British colonial civic district, passing landmarks such as the Parliament House, Supreme Court, and City Hall, all set against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers and historical facades. Then head to Little India, a vibrant enclave alive with the scent of spices, vivid flower garlands, and the buzz of curry houses and street vendors—an immersive snapshot of Singapore’s Indian community.Continue to Chinatown, where old-world charm meets contemporary flair. Stroll along narrow lanes lined with restored shophouses that now host teahouses, local eateries, souvenir shops, and apothecaries. Visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, founded in 1827 and renowned for its ornate towers and significance to the local Tamil community.Next, explore Kampong Glam, Singapore’s historic Arab Quarter. Pause to admire the gleaming golden dome of the Sultan Mosque, the spiritual heart of the Muslim community. As you wander Arab Street, discover traditional shops still selling hand-printed batik, rattan crafts, carpets, and exotic perfumes—a glimpse into Singapore’s Arab trading legacy.Conclude the day with a leisurely 30-minute bumboat ride along the Singapore River. As the river taxi glides past historic quays and gleaming skyscrapers, take in panoramic views of the city skyline while your guide shares stories of Singapore’s early trading days, when Sir Stamford Raffles established a bustling port here. The cruise ends at Merlion Park, where you’ll meet the city’s iconic symbol—the half-lion, half-fish Merlion—framed by the Esplanade Bridge and Marina Bay.From here we return to our hotel at 17:00 where we will have approximately 90-minutes to relax and freshen up. This evening pick up from hotel at 18:30 for our welcome dinner at The Blue Ginger, a restaurant located in Singapore’s Chinatown and renown for Peranakan cuisine, a rich culinary tradition that blends Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences. This fusion results in dishes characterized by bold spices, aromatic herbs, and intricate preparation methods. After dinner, transfer back to the hotel for a much deserved night’s rest.Overnight at Swissôtel The Stamford (Standard Rooms) – Singapore
Very early this morning we will be picked up from the hotel lobby at at 05:00 AM and privately transferred back to Singapore Changi International Airport and check-in for our direct flight to Yogyakarta, Indonesia, located on the island of Java.Please refer to the Indonesia Special Program Notes included in your ATJ Sign-Up Packet & Travel Guide for detailed information. All foreign travelers visiting Indonesia are required to obtain a visa, which can be secured either in advance online or upon arrival in Indonesia. However, since you are traveling as part of a group, it is strongly recommended that all group members obtain their visas online in advance. This will help ensure a smoother and faster arrival process for the entire group. The Visa on Arrival option should only be used as a last resort, in case someone experiences difficulties completing the online visa application.
Fly Singapore to Yogyakarta on Scoot Air TR 212, departing 08:15, arriving 09:30Economy Class
Welcome to Indonesia. On arrival after clearing Immigration and Customs, proceed onward to the Arrivals Hall and meet your English-speaking tour escort from ATJ who will accompany the group throughout until your departure from Makassar to Singapore on June 28, 2026.From the airport we immediately depart the city as we transfer towards our hotel located near Borobudur. En route, we will enjoy a brief stop to visit Mendut Temple, a small yet historically significant 9th-century Buddhist temple known for its impressive seated Buddha statue and peaceful surroundings.Following by the temple visit, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Javanese-cuisine. After lunch, proceed to our hotel, a refined colonial-style resort located near the Borobudur Temple complex for check-in. After getting settled the remainder of the afternoon and evening is at our leisure. Overnight at the Plataran Heritage Resort (Deluxe Premier Rooms) – BorobudurThe Plataran Heritage is an elegant oasis overlooking the Menorah Hills and conveniently located near Boroobudur Temple. Beautifully adorned rooms and suites provide classic comfort, while the spa, pool and dining lounges complete the experience.
Early this morning, we will be picked up from the hotel and privately transferred to Dagi Hill, a small hill overlooking Borobudur Temple. Take in the pre-dawn atmosphere and watch as the morning’s first rays illuminate the beautiful panorama set before you while enjoying a picnic breakfast. Not only is the mist and lighting at dawn serene, but it is also a special time to view this ancient site before masses of tourists arrive later in the day. Borobudur predates Angkor Wat by 300 years and Notre Dame by 200 years. “Discovered” in 1815, it has been excavated and returned to its original glory. Reaching the summit of Punthuk Setumbu first involves a short 10-minute drive to its base followed by a 15-minute walk up to its summit. It is one of the best spots to enjoy the sunrise.Next, head to the Oei Hong Djien Museum, a private museum dedicated to modern and contemporary Indonesian art. Founded and owned by renowned art collector Dr. Oei Hong Djien, the museum showcases a collection he began in the 1970s. Today, with over 2,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and new media art, the OHD Museum offers a remarkable representation of Indonesian modern and contemporary art.After a stop for lunch at a local restaurant, take a short drive to Candirejo Village, where you can enjoy a dokar (local horse-drawn carriage) ride or a bike ride to explore the village and its surrounding plantations, immersing yourself in the local way of life. Visit small home industries, including sweet potato cracker making, traditional herbal medicine preparation, and bamboo carving. There is also an opportunity to learn how to play the Javanese Gamelan. Late this afternoon return to the resort with the remainder of the evening free at leisure.Overnight at the Plataran Heritage Resort (Deluxe Premier Rooms) – Borobudur
Following breakfast at the hotel depart on a full day exploration of Yogyakarta, focusing on the unique culture, heritage and arts of crafts of this Central Java kingdom. Begin the day with a visit to the interesting Sonobudoyo Museum which emphasizes Javanese culture and features a number of interesting exhibits including wooden wayang (shadow) puppets, masks as well as traditional Javanese gamelan instruments.Continue with a visit to the Sultan’s Palace, also known as Kraton, which is central to Javanese culture, and the literal geographical center of Javanese cosmology, situated between volcanic Mt Merapi and tumultuous waters of Parangtritis. Constructed between 1756 and 1790, it is a fine example of traditional Javanese sultanate architecture and is still home to the last Java sultan and features a showcase of Javanese culture and relics. Depending on the day of week, we may be able to witness a cultural performance that ranges from golek menak puppetry to classical Javanese poetry known as macapat to traditional dancing and musical performed by a full Javanese gamalan. From the Kraton, jump on becaks (like a cyclo or trishaw) and head to the village of Kauman. This village is considered the central keeper of the Islamic religion as authorized by the Javanese Sultanate. The small gangs (streets) of this village were designed to minimize street noise and disturbances to not interrupt the santri, or Islamic students, from their studies. It is also said that, by ensuring the streets are only passable on foot, every man is an equal. End our exploration of Kauman with a visit to Taman Sari Water Palace. This addition to the royal complex was built over 200 years ago by the first Sultan, with picturesque bathing pools for his harem.Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the outskirts of the city and visit the Prambanan Temple Complex. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO recognized historic site it home to ancient, jagged temples that features three main inner shrines dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. If time and interest permit, visit the Affandi Museum, a unique gallery dedicated to the works of Indonesia’s celebrated art maestro, Affandi. Located in his former home and studio, the museum showcases an extensive collection of Affandi’s lifetime works, including paintings, sketches, and personal artifacts that provide insight into his creative journey.Early this evening return to the resort with the remainder of the evening free at leisure.Overnight at the Plataran Heritage Resort (Deluxe Premier Rooms) – Borobudur
Meals Provided
– Breakfast, Dinner
Early this morning, we depart on the 2-hour overland transfer to Semarang and catch our flight to Pangkalan Bun, Indonesia, the gateway to Tanjung Putting National Park and Camp Leakey.
Fly Semarang to Pangkalanbun on NAM Air IN 196, departing 09:10, arriving 10:20Economy Class
Upon arrival at Pangkalanbun we will be met and transferred to Kumai Harbor, a thriving river harbor located on the edge of the vast Borneo interior.Then, board our privately chartered klotok (an endemic boat used to navigate the rivers of Borneo) for the four-hour journey up the Sekoyner River to the Rimba Lodge. As we leave Kumai Harbor, we will have an opportunity to witness river front life in this busy port-town, including the incredible shipyards where traditional methods are still employed to build giant wooden schooners used all over the Indonesian archipelago. As we travel upriver, keep watch along the river banks for prolific bird life and many of several species of monkeys, including the large proboscis monkeys.Later in the afternoon, arrive at our rustic eco-lodge. Settle into our rooms and if interested, walk around the lodge on the wooden platforms to view wildlife. Proboscis monkeys and long tail macaques are known to come near the lodge. This evening enjoy dinner and much-deserved, night’s rest.Overnight at the Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge (Emerald Rooms with Air Conditioning) – Tanjung Puting National ParkThis simple, comfortable, eco-lodge is located on the gently flowing Sekonyer river in beautiful Tanjung Puting National Park. Camp-style rooms feature air-conditioning, hot water and rustic, private bathrooms. A percentage of the lodge’s profits goes to the environmental protection of the area.
Meals Provided
– Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning cruise up the river to observe wildlife as many animals engage in their daily activities. This is an excellent opportunity to see various species in their natural habitat. Next, visit the FNPF Camp to participate in a tree-planting activity, contributing to the Carbon Offset program. Each tree planted costs IDR 50,000 (approximately USD 4), and a ranger will name the trees in your honor.From the main river we will continue up the Sekonyer River as an early lunch is served. It slowly makes its way along the black waters of river to Camp Leakey. Dense vegetation is perfectly reflected in the tannin rich waters of the river. This afternoon visit Camp Leakey, the research and information center and where the older orangutans are reintroduced from captivity into the wild including this afternoon’s feeding time at 14:00. Camp Leakey was established in 1971 by Dr. Birute Galdikas. Like her peers Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall, she was supported by the late Louis Leakey to study large primates. Spend the afternoon hiking through the Borneo rainforest, searching for wildlife and exploring the swamp and lowland dipthocarp forests the feature countless varieties of epiphytes, liana, mosses and ferns. Keep an eye out for noisy gibbons, deer and wild boar.Afterward, return to the boat at 16:00 and cruise down the river back toward the eco-lodge with the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure followed by dinner.Overnight at the Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge (Emerald Rooms with Air Conditioning) – Tanjung Puting National Park
Meals Provided
– Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, continue our guided exploration of the river area. After breakfast at the hotel, we will venture an hour upstream to reach another feeding station, Pondok Tanggui, where the baby and juvenile orangutans are fed and cared for. Remain here until around 10:00 am, and then we continue to Tanjung Harapan village to see the Malayan and mixed Dayak settlement located on the edge of the national park.Enjoy lunch back onboard as we cruise up the river to Tanjung Harapan Camp arriving in time for the afternoon orangutan feeding at 15:00. Afterward, return to the boat and cruise back to the eco-lodge followed by dinner.Overnight at the Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge (Emerald Rooms with Air Conditioning) – Tanjung Puting National Park
Meals Provided
– Breakfast
Following an breakfast at the hotel, cruise back to Kumai Harbor and then transfer to the Pangkalan Bun Airport where we will check in for our flight to Makassar connecting via Surabaya.
Fly Pangkalanbun to Surabaya on NAM Air IN 193, departing 10:50, arriving 12:00Economy Class
On arrival in Surabaya it is necessary to collect our luggage and then check-in for the connecting flight to Makassar, Sulawesi.
Fly Surabaya to Ujung Pandang (Makassar) on Sriwijaya Air SJ 562, departing 16:30, arriving 19:00Economy Class
Upon arrival at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport Makassar (also known as Ujung Pandang), we will be transferred to our centrally located hotel with the remainder of the evening at our leisure.Overnight at Hyatt Place Makassar (Deluxe Rooms) – MakassarHyatt Place Makassar is a contemporary 4-star hotel located in the heart of Makassar’s Central Business District, offering convenient access to shopping centers, eateries, and local attractions. The hotel features 145 spacious rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities, including floor-to-ceiling windows, free Wi-Fi, and cozy sofa beds. Guests can enjoy a variety of facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and the Papillon restaurant, which serves a mix of Indonesian and international cuisine. With its strategic location and comprehensive amenities, Hyatt Place Makassar is an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers alike.
Meals Provided
– Breakfast, Lunch
Early this morning, we transfer to Hasanuddin Airport and check in to for our flight to Palopo, the gateway to Tana Toraja. Nestled in the highlands of South Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tana Toraja renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The region is home to the Torajan people, who are known for their elaborate funeral rites, cliffside burial sites adorned with wooden effigies called tau-tau, and distinctive boat-shaped houses known as tongkonan . The traditional belief system, Aluk To Dolo or “the way of the ancestors,” continues to influence many aspects of daily life, despite the prevalence of Christianity in the area . We will explore its unique cultural practices set against a backdrop of lush rice terraces, limestone cliffs, and misty mountains
Fly Ujung Pandang (Makassar) to Palopo on Wings Air IW 1350, departing 08:15, arriving 09:10Economy Class
Upon arrival, we immediately depart on the 2.5 hour drive into the heart of Tana Toraja.Please note that our schedule in Tana Toraja will remain flexible in order to witness a range of unique and culturally significant ceremonies and events, particularly centered around the Torajan people’s elaborate funeral traditions. These ceremonies are deeply rooted in the community’s beliefs and offer profound insights into their way of life. These are not scheduled in advance and we hope our visit will coincide with one of these local ceremonies which generally take place during the ‘dry’ season from June through September.En route, make a stop at Puncak to take in the breathtaking panoramic mountain views. This scenic spot is renowned for its stunning landscapes, where rolling hills and lush greenery stretch as far as the eye can see. Upon arrival in Toraja, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant then continue with a visit to the village of Kete Kesu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kete Kesu is one of the most important centers of the Tana Toraja culture with its ornate Tongkonan houses, meticulously carved and decorated with antique wood ornaments. In addition to the hanging graves, you will also find cave tombs on the outskirts of the village.Late this afternoon check into our hotel with the remainder of the evening at our leisure to relax after a long travel day.Overnight at the Toraja Misilianna Hotel (Deluxe Rooms) – Tana TorajaA sanctuary of serenity and peace in the sacred highland of Toraja, the Toraja Misilianna Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Tana Toraja, making it the ideal location to explore this fascinating corner of Indonesia and Sulawesi. With a nod to both traditional Torajan style and international comfort, the Toraja Misilianna Hotel is the regions best property combine with heartfelt service and personal touch.
Following breakfast we will depart on a full day exploration of Tana Toraja. Begin our day with a visit to Lemo—where the burial places are carved high upon the rock cliffs. There are rows of effigies of deceased on display next to them. Continue then to Pasiliran in Sangalla area—it is a burial place for babies on the tree trunk. The last visit before lunch is Suaya—the burial site for the nobles of Sangalla. There are effigies on a balcony carved on the cliff and preserved ancient sarcophagus nearby. This afternoon after lunch at a local restaurant, visit Londa—one of Tana Toraja’s largest cave burial sites. There are rows of Tau Tau or wooden effigies displayed along the cliffs. Then we proceed to Kete’ Ke’su one of Tana Toraja’s most beautiful settings featuring rows of traditional-style Kete’ Ke’su area also an epicenter of wood carving in Taja Toraja. We will also have a chance to visit its burial grounds just beyond the village with its ancient wooden sarcophagus and rows of wooden effigies.Return to the hotel late this afternoon with the evening at our leisure.Overnight at the Toraja Misilianna Hotel (Deluxe Rooms) – Tana Toraja
Following breakfast, we continue to explore Tana Toraja and the villages north of Rantepao. Start the day with a visit the Bolu Buffalo Market, which is one of Indonesia’s most fascinating markets and remains very much a local event despite its popularity with visitors. Continue to the village of Bori where more than a hundred ancient monoliths are found, with the size of the monoliths indicating the status of the family. In nearby Pallawa, we will find some impressive Tongkonan houses some of them many centuries old. In Pallawa, we will have another opportunity to gain insight into the way of life of Toraja residents and their impressive Tongkonan houses.Return to your hotel later this afternoon with the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.Overnight at the Toraja Misilianna Hotel (Deluxe Rooms) – Tana Toraja
Meals Provided
– Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Very early this morning we transfer back to Palopo, a drive of approximately 2 hours, for our flight back to Makassar.
Fly Palopo to Ujung Pandang (Makassar) on Wings Air IW 1351, departing 09:30, arriving 10:25Economy Class
Upon arrival we will transfer to a local restaurant in Maros Regency for an early lunch. Afterward, we will visit the Bugis countryside of Rammang-Rammang and enjoy the impressive limestone cliffs and dramatic karst formations. Enjoy a peaceful ride on a wooden boat along the river, surrounded by nipa palms and mangroves, while hopefully enjoy cool breezes from the countryside. Here we can enjoy a short walk to a traditional Bugis village and experience local life. The Bugis are one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for their rich maritime heritage and deeply rooted cultural traditions. Historically renowned as skilled sailors and traders, the Bugis played a significant role in regional commerce across the Indonesian archipelago and beyond. It is widely believed that the term “boogeyman” (or “bogeyman”) is derived—at least in part—from the Bugis people of South Sulawesi, as they were feared pirates and raiders at various times during the colonial occupation of Dutch Indonesia.In the afternoon, we return to downtown Makassar for a brief city tour. Visit Paotere, the old harbor of Makassar, known for its stunning “Phinisi” Bugis schooners. Next, explore Fort Rotterdam, which houses the Lagaligo Museum, featuring two buildings: one dedicated to ethnology and the other to history. Late this afternoon we check into our familiar hotel for our last night in Indonesia including a farewell dinner at the hotel.Overnight at Hyatt Place Makassar (Deluxe Rooms) – MakassarHyatt Place Makassar is a modern 4-star hotel situated in the heart of Makassar’s Central Business District, offering convenient access to shopping centers, eateries, and local attractions. The hotel features 145 spacious rooms and suites equipped with contemporary amenities, including floor-to-ceiling windows, free Wi-Fi, and beds. Guests can enjoy a variety of facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and the Papillon restaurant, which serves a mix of Indonesian and international cuisine.
Following breakfast, depart the hotel at 08:00 for a morning cruise aboard a ‘phinisi’. The phinisi is a traditional Indonesian sailing vessel, historically crafted by the Bugis and Makassar people of South Sulawesi. These majestic two-masted ships were originally built for transporting goods and engaging in maritime trade throughout the Indonesian archipelago. In 2017, UNESCO officially recognized the art of boatbuilding of the phinisi as an element of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition celebrates not just the physical structure of the vessel, but also the craftsmanship, cultural identity, and oral traditions passed down through generations of Sulawesi boat builders.This morning we sail to Samalona Island where there will time to enjoy swimming, exploring its white sandy beaches and even some snorkeling for those interested. Return to port and the hotel at approximately 11:00 where we will have about 1-hour to shower and freshen up.Early this afternoon we transfer back to the airport and check-in for our return flight to Singapore. Please refer to the Singapore Special Program Notes in your ATJ Sign-Up Packet & Travel Guide for important entry requirements, as you will need to complete another SG Arrival Card (SGAC) in order to re-enter Singapore this evening. As before, the SGAC must be submitted within 3 days prior to your arrival in Singapore. This is a mandatory requirement and should be completed online prior to your departure.
Fly Ujung Pandang (Makassar) to Singapore on Scoot Air TR 237, departing 17:50, arriving 20:45Economy Class
Welcome back to Singapore! On arrival this evening we will once again need to proceed through arrival formalities including immigration, baggage claim and customs. Upon exiting customs into the arrival hall we will be met and escorted on the short, 5-minute walk to our airport hotel for check-in. After getting settled, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are at our leisure to rest and prepare for tomorrow’s long journey home.Overnight at the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport (Standard Rooms) – SingaporeCrowne Plaza Changi Airport, an IHG Hotel, is a luxurious accommodation connected to Terminal 3 of Singapore’s Changi Airport, offering unparalleled convenience for travelers. Recognized as the “World’s Best Airport Hotel” by Skytrax for nine consecutive years, the hotel features well-appointed rooms and suites, some with stunning runway views and others overlooking the iconic Jewel Changi Airport.
Today, return to Singapore Changi International Airport on your own. We recommend checking-in for your international flight departures no later than 3-hours prior to departure. Breakfast is available from 06:00 AM to 10:30 AM for those with late morning or afternoon flight departures. Early departures may not have time to enjoy breakfast which will be served on your departure flight if departing this morning.
Stay current with all the latest being offered from ATJ, as
well as updates on Asia Destinations.