As much as we adore Singapore, let's just say absence makes the hard grow fonder, and these dreamy getaways from Singapore is just what we need to fuel the patriotism
President Tony Tan has declared 7 August 2015 as a public holiday, and that means we all get four days off through Monday – hurrah! Singapore, we love you, but it’ll be good to, you know, take some time apart to miss each other. Whether it’s sipping cocktails on the beach in Vietnam, frolicking in Hokkaido’s lavender fields, or exploring Taiwan’s waters, these weekend getaways from Singapore (dreamed up by the team) will definitely help grow your fondness for the city.
Bhutan
“Not only is it the happiest place on earth (fact), it also boast some of the most amazing sites in the world – like the Tiger’s Nest. There is really nothing better than fresh air, wide open spaces and some rolling green hills for the senses. Oh, and the imagery of Bhutan is totally instagram-worthy (like this shot above).”
– Chris
Boracay, Philippines
“This island is famous for unforgettable beach holidays. Imagine white sands, clear-blue waters and a refreshing summer cocktail in hand – just bliss. Don’t forget to head to the markets for a taste of local culinary delicacies.”
– Ginny
Danang, Vietnam
“I’d love to spend long lazy days with the fam on the pristine white beaches supping on fresh Vietnamese cold rolls. Come sundown, I’d pop the little ones in the Hyatt kids club and chillax poolside for a pre-dinner tropical cocktail. No need for intrepid sightseeing!”
– Georgina
Dubai, UAE
“I’ve long been intrigued by Dubai, the fascinatingly bizarre playground of oil sheiks and expats alike. I’m looking forward to checking out the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain Show (supposed to put Las Vegas’ to shame), and maybe I’ll go dune surfing! Red eye flights make it easy to get in the most time there without taking extra days but I may be hurting on my return!”
– Kate
Green Island, Taiwan
“Head to this volcanic island off the eastern coast of Taiwan for an amazing dive. Not many people have explored Taiwan’s underwater world, and – according to National Geographic – Taiwan’s coral formations are some of the oldest on the planet. Excited to see what I can find when I’m there!”
– Samantha
Hokkaido, Japan
“Everyone goes to Hokkaido for snow, but summer in the Japanese island is absolutely beautiful as well. I want to run around the stunning flower fields, hike at Daisetsuzan National Park, take a dip in an onsen, and feast on the freshest sashimi.”
– Katie
Kerala, India
“A sleepy state in India’s deep South, Kerala is worlds apart from the frenetic pace of Singapore – it’s almost like time slows down there. It has a curious mix of white sandy beaches, rice paddies, tea-covered hills, and sleepy backwaters and there’s no way I could ever get bored in this tropical paradise.”
– Shairah
Marrakech, Morocco
“One of my best friends is based in Dubai, and we’ve been talking about getting lost in the bewitching African city together for a while now. The vibrant chaos all around the medina will most certainly knock us hardcore urbanites out with its fabulous sights and smells, but it’s nothing a fancy hamman can’t fix.”
– Crystal
Mui Ne, Vietnam
“Who knew Vietnam boasts such amazing and awe inspiring sand dunes? Set along the southeastern coast, Mui Ne is South East Asia’s answer to the Sahara desert. The picturesque environment is totally instagramable. #Nofilter needed.”
– Aliff
Nepal
“It seems a shame to miss the birthday bash and escape town but I’m celebrating a birthday with a big zero at the end of it in early August too. I’d like to be at the top of a mountain, where I can be all reflective and exhilarated at the same time. The reality (I’m lazy) is probably closer to a bottle of bubbles with my family in Paris – still pretty awesome.”
– Skye
Rawa Island, Malaysia
“I’ve been dying to get away from skyscrapers and throngs of people, and you’d be hard-pressed to find any of those on Rawa Island. Plus, it isn’t far away, and its clear waters look incredibly inviting. Fresh coconut juice in one hand, a good read in the other – I’m ready to laze the day away in a hammock!”
– Debbie
Ubud, Bali
“The idyllic Balinese town is perfect for my solo trip – to shut off all technology, pause and appreciate life. Steeped in culture and rich in lush greenery, Ubud will be great source of regeneration for me.”
– Lindsay