Mangalore, officially known as Mangaluru, sits on the coast of Karnataka, sandwiched between Goa and Kerala. The port was an important hub for trade with Arabia and Persia, and was later colonised by both the Portuguese and the British, leaving a rich architectural legacy of mosques, temples and churches.

The port of Kochi, commonly known as Cochin, occupies a strategic location on India’s Malabar Coast, and its history as a trading hub is reflected in the blend of European, Chinese and Arabian influences. It’s also the gateway to the idyllic Kerala Backwaters, which are best appreciated on a houseboat cruise.

Colombo may be a little chaotic, but there is plenty to recommend Sri Lanka's colourful capital. Faded colonial architecture and beautiful Buddhist temples hint at the city's considerable history, while the excellent restaurants, lively bars and characterful streets provide the perfect introduction to contemporary Sri Lankan culture.

The Dutch colonial architecture of the Fort, Galle’s walled old quarter, is one of the highlights of Sri Lanka’s south coast. The atmospheric streets are home to all manner of beguiling boutiques, cafés and restaurants, and the beach towns of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna are just a short drive away.

Investment has poured into Hambantota since the city was devastated by the 2004 tsunami, and this is now one of South Asia’s biggest ports. Hambantota is a jumping off point for Yala National Park, famous for its leopards, and the less well known Bundala National Park, rich in birdlife including flamingos and storks.

Trincomalee, on Sri Lanka’s less developed east coast, has begun to re-emerge as a tourist destination following the end of the island’s bitter civil war in 2009. The sleepy streets are scattered with churches, mosques and Hindu temples, and the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli are stunning.

As well as a plethora of luxury resorts, Phuket has a charming old town replete with pretty Sino-Portuguese architecture, and acts as a jump-off point for exploring nearby islands and coastline. Koh Phing Pan, better known as James Bond Island, and Ko Phi Phi are breathtakingly beautiful, as are the limestone formations that surround Krabi.

Laid-back Langkawi boasts some of Malaysia’s finest beaches, and it’s a place where the traditional kampung (village) way of life survives in spite of the island’s development as a tourist destination. It’s also a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving thanks to the clarity of the surrounding waters.

Malaysia’s capital is a hot and humid cultural melting pot, defined by its distinctive Malay, Chinese and Indian communities. The dazzling Petronas Towers are KL’s most recognisable landmark, while at street level you’ll find temples and mosques, elegant colonial buildings and bustling markets.