Get away from the dangerous PSI levels by taking a short break to a country near Singapore with cleaner air
Do you smell smoke in Singapore? The dreaded “H” word is back with a vengeance. To avoid the haze in Singapore, escape the toxic air with a last-minute short break to a neighbouring country with cleaner air. (Psst… if you can’t get away from the haze, but want to enjoy cleaner air at home, here’s the best air purifiers to buy in Singapore).
Take the train to Bangkok If you’re a little iffy about flying just now, we’ve thought about that and recommend these overland journeys out of Singapore. From Singapore to Bangkok by train Step back in time as you board the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore and make your way to Bangkok. The two night journey stops over in Penang, a charming colonial city, widely popular for its delicious street food. Jump on-board: Eastern & Oriental Express
Cameron Highlands Make for the mountains and enjoy the cooler and clearer climates of Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, just a 6 hour drive away. Fill up your lungs with fresh air as you visit the region’s tea plantations. Where to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort
Langkawi The island of Langkawi, off Malaysia, is one of our top beach retreats because you can go from boardroom to beach in six hours tops (trust us we’ve counted). Our favourite properties on the island are set on exclusive beaches, perfect for fleeing the haze and the rush of city life. Where to stay: The Datai, Four Seasons Langkawi
Phuket The absolute beauty of Phuket, isn’t the island itself but its ease of accessibility. With more than ten flights a day, just pick one that leaves on a Friday night for a quick 48 hours of fresh air (if you’re having a little difficulty getting time off work). What better time than now to experience a newcomer to the island by our favourite COMO group: Point Yamu by COMO – with the requisite timeless design and spectacular views. Where to stay: Point Yamu by COMO
Koh Samui With its villas perched dramatically on a hillside overlooking the azure Gulf of Thailand, just a short two hour flight and you’ll be soaking up the sea views from your private pool. The Conrad has its own private island beach that’s accessible only by the resort’s speedboat, a special treat to really get the hearty sea breeze into your lungs – out with the toxins! Where to stay: Conrad Koh Samui
Java Travel Designer Elgin just returned from a relaxing weekend in Java, and is still missing its crisp clear airs. If you haven’t done so already, we think now’s the time to bike its picturesque coffee plantations set on rolling hills, imbibe the bustle of the local markets and finally tick the majestic temple of Borobudur off your bucket list. Where to stay: Amanjiwo
Cambodia Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, is a bustling city with lots to see and do. For a more relaxed getaway, the eco-luxe Song Saa, located in the Koh Rong Archipelago is worth the few extra nights on the untouched Cambodian coast. Where to stay: Private island resort, Song Saa