You don’t even need a long weekend to take these trips…
PSA: Weekends plus AirAsia’s Quickies is a match made in holiday heaven. If your tendency towards escapism is taking over and you’re itching to book a last-minute vacay, these getaways will save your sanity. Fly out with AirAsia Holiday Quickies to dream destinations in under three hours – you don’t even have to wait for a public holiday to roll around!
Bali
This will come as no surprise but with Bali’s enticing beaches and endless cafes, is it any wonder why we can’t get enough of this island? And there’s much more to it than Seminyak too: go dolphin-watching at Lovina Beach or visit the mystical caves at Uluwatu.
If it’s a truly spectacular sunset you’re after, we reckon one of Bali’s many beaches has got what you’re after. Capture the postcard-worthy sky and watch the likes roll in. That said, we highly recommend appreciating the view for a good few minutes sans phone first.
Book one of AirAsia’s 28 weekly direct flights to Bali at $69 all-in.
Kota Kinabalu
There’s tons to do at Sabah’s capital. Our overriding favourite? A visit to Manukan Island just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. This serene little island provides a quiet retreat to sunbathe, snorkel, paraglide and more in the middle of nature. Plus, you know you’re on the right track when it’s frequented by the locals themselves!
Once you’ve had enough of the island (though we don’t think you ever will), head back to the city for a little sightseeing before going back to reality. The City Mosque is one architectural beauty to gawk at, the Sabah Museum takes you through the state’s indigenous cultures, and the Kota Kinabalu Night Market is just the place to squeeze in a bit of feasting before you reluctantly leave.
Book one of AirAsia’s 14 weekly direct flights to Kota Kinabalu at $55 all-in.
Phuket
We can’t tell you how many times we daydream about laying under an umbrella with the sound of the crashing waves and a drink in hand. We could laze by the beach forever, preferably one at Phang Nga Bay, just northeast of Phuket. Sounds unfamiliar? You’ll recognise the iconic limestone cliffs of the bay when you see them.
On the flipside, partygoers head to Patong. Expect open-doored clubs and bars blasting music out into the street where wandering performers and ladyboys vie for your attention. Venture in with an open mind and don’t be shy to party in your flip flops!
Book one of AirAsia’s 7 weekly direct flights to Phuket at $50 all-in.
Krabi
Railay Beach is our beach of choice at Krabi, mainly because it’s actually four beaches in one area… all the better for beach-hopping, right? We also love how it’s blocked off from the outside world by limestone formations (you can only enter via a long tail boat), making it a scenic hideout to reconnect with your inner peace.
Krabi isn’t only about being a hermit though (we say as we plan an itinerary of doing absolutely nothing), the island is a natural paradise waiting to be explored. The Thing Teao Forest Natural Park is a must-see, specifically for its Emerald Pool and Blue Pool – we’re talking vividly coloured and impossibly clear ponds naturally occurring in the middle of the forest. Don’t ask us how but it sure seems magical. Fingers crossed and you might even see fairy dust. Or was that just the sun?
Book one of AirAsia’s 7 weekly direct flights to Krabi at $50 all-in.
Chiang Rai
If you’ve had one too many beach trips, how about chilling by the river at Chiang Rai? Soak in the view with some street food or a romantic dinner by the waters. Shopping-wise, don’t miss local boutiques showcasing textiles, antiques, crafts and more.
Other highlights include the Wat Rong Khun, the famed White Temple that is an integral part of any Chiang Rai agenda. This architectural beauty features traditional Buddhist relics alongside pop culture references like Superman and Neo from the Matrix movie – talk about unique!
Book one of AirAsia’s 3 weekly direct flights to Chiang Rai at $69 all-in.
But wait, there’s more!
Five trips not enough for you? This is just the tip of the iceberg for our favourite destinations; AirAsia has a total of 17 short-haul flights to holiday destinations in the region. Check out the full Holiday Quickies list for more deets and you’ll be on your way to your next escape in no time!
This post is in partnership with AirAsia.