Great Asian Railway Journeys
Overview
Michael Portillo embarks on a captivating 2,500-mile railway journey through Southeast Asia, guided by his vintage 1913 Bradshaw's Handbook. As he traverses six diverse countries, he delves into the vibrant culture, visiting towering megacities and stunning mosques that showcase the region's rich heritage. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into local life and history, making this adventure a fascinating exploration of the landscapes and traditions that define this part of the world.
Episodes
-
1
Kowloon to Wan Chai
In Hong Kong, Michael Portillo explores the circumstances that led to Britain acquiring the island and Kowloon from China following two opium wars. He...
-
2
Hong Kong University to Lantau Island
Michael Portillo embarks on his journey through Hong Kong, riding the remarkable MTR metro system that carries six million passengers daily. In Wan Ch...
-
3
Chiang Mai to Lampang
Guided by his 1913 Bradshaw’s Guide, Michael Portillo sets off on a four-part railway journey across Thailand, starting in the northern city of Chia...
-
4
Ayutthaya to River Kwai
Michael Portillo continues his train adventure through Thailand, starting in Lampang, where he volunteers at an elephant hospital that treats animals ...
-
5
Bangkok
In Bangkok, Michael Portillo continues his journey through Thailand, delving into the legacy of King Rama V, who in the late 1800s constructed an opul...
-
6
Bangkok to Hua Hin
Michael Portillo continues his railway journey through Thailand, guided by his 1913 Bradshaw’s handbook. He steps into the boxing ring with the reno...
-
7
Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet
With his trusty 1913 Bradshaw’s Guide in hand, Michael Portillo embarks on a remarkable journey aboard the Unification Railway, traveling a thousand...
-
8
Da Nang to Hoi An
Michael Portillo continues his extensive journey across Vietnam on the Unification Railway, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Departing from...
-
9
Hue to Ninh Binh
Michael Portillo embarks on a thousand-mile adventure on the Unification Railway, starting in Ho Chi Minh City and making his way to Hanoi, ultimately...
-
10
Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
Following the path laid out in his 1913 Bradshaw’s Guide, Michael embarks on a thousand-mile adventure through what is now known as the Socialist Re...
-
11
Jakarta to Bogor
Michael Portillo’s extensive 2,500-mile train journey through Southeast Asia brings him to the southernmost point in Indonesia. He travels across Ja...
-
12
Jakarta to Borobudur/Kutoarjo
Michael's adventure across Indonesia's largest island continues as he departs from Jakarta. His seven-hour train ride takes him through lush rainfores...
-
13
Yogyakarta to Ambarawa
Michael Portillo continues his rail adventure through Southeast Asia, this time exploring the southern archipelago of Indonesia. He journeys through J...
-
14
Ambarawa to Surabaya
Guided by his 1913 Bradshaw’s guidebook, Michael Portillo embarks on a 2,500-mile train journey through Southeast Asia, landing in Indonesia, a majo...
-
16
Kuala Kangsar to Cameron Highlands
Michael Portillo continues his rail journey through Southeast Asia, this time exploring Malaysia. He begins in Kuala Kangsar, where he delves into the...
-
17
Kuala Lumpur to Melaka
Michael Portillo continues his extensive 2,500-mile journey through Southeast Asia, focusing on the remarkable transformation of Kuala Lumpur. Once a ...
-
18
Melaka to Johor Bahru
Michael Portillo embarks on a 2,500-mile journey through Southeast Asia, guided by his 1913 Bradshaw’s Guide. His first stop is Melaka, once a bustl...
-
19
Raffles Place to Botanic Gardens
Michael Portillo wraps up his railway journey through Southeast Asia in the vibrant city-state of Singapore. In the historic district, he explores the...
-
20
Chinatown to Gardens by the Bay
Michael Portillo wraps up his 2,500-mile journey through Southeast Asia in Singapore, a bustling island city-state. In Tai Seng, he explores the impre...
