Exploring Southeast Asia & Beyond: 7 Destinations for an Epic Summer Getaway

Hello, summer! Finally, the sun is out, temperatures are up, and our hearts are calling for a little adventure. A perfect summer holiday is different for every traveller — whether it’s with friends and family or a solo trip, it’s time to travel, earn, and redeem with Ascott Star Rewards (ASR)! From sun-kissed surf to vibrant local festivals, read on for our picks of summer destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond. 

ASR is celebrating their 4th anniversary with up to 2.5X bonus ASR points — just 4 you!  From now until 31 May 2023, stay at any participating ASR properties and earn 25% bonus ASR points. Book your stay with ASR

Glorious summer destinations in Southeast Asia

1. Indonesia

An archipelago blessed with a kaleidoscope of natural treasures, Indonesia feels crafted by the summer gods as a playground for sun worshippers. Endless stretches of beaches, active volcanoes looming over small villages, untouched jungles teeming with monkeys; if it’s an outdoor expedition in the tropics you’re after, then this sprawling country is worth considering this season. 

As soon as June rolls around, there’s a surge of tourists descending on the island of Bali. Nonstop surf, vibrant diving spots, artsy local culture, hipster cafes, and yoga retreats find a home on this Indonesian isle, combining to make it one of the most popular summer destinations in Southeast Asia. Everything is so laidback and inviting that a big community of digital nomads live here, simply opting to stay on the island indefinitely. Forever summer, anyone? Sign us up for that. 

Fast-paced Jakarta is also a delight to visit in the summer, with pleasant and dry weather perfect for sightseeing. Beneath the urban chaos, this city hides a rich history and artistic spirit that are a pleasure to uncover. We recommend visiting the National Monument at Merdeka Square and the nearby National Museum first, then going on to explore other attractions like Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Museum MACAN, and more.

Where to stay

You won’t run out of places to stay in Indonesia, especially the capital Jakarta. VIP travellers will feel right at home at Oakwood Suites La Maison Jakarta, a collection of luxury apartments offering five-star suites, service, and amenities. Besides enjoying a convenient location near the central business district and the high-end Gandaria City mall, guests will be pleased with the top-notch facilities like the outdoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre. 

Other fantastic properties in Jakarta include Oakwood Suites Kuningan Jakarta in the central business district, Oakwood Apartments PIK Jakarta in the upscale Pantai Indah Kapuk neighbourhood, and the luxe Oakwood Taman Mini. Leaving the capital? The five-star Oakwood Hotel & Residence Surabaya is a sophisticated choice in East Surabaya.

2. Malaysia

Shake off the cold weather blues in Malaysia, a dynamic country that effortlessly blends the allures of city living and island life. It’s an underrated summer destination in Southeast Asia despite having world-class national parks, unspoiled islands and beaches, and mouthwatering street food that’s up there with Asia’s best. 

The clear skies and dry weather also make summer the perfect time to head to Kuala Lumpur, the buzzy capital of Malaysia. Hawker centres and local cafes promise a feast for your taste buds every day at KL, while the magical Batu Caves is a great day trip destination. 

Nature explorers can even venture into the Borneo wild as summer is the best time for orangutan encounters in the rainforests and spotting whale sharks in the waters around Sabah. The summer months are also ideal for tropical vacations on Tioman Island in the eastern part of the country. 

Where to stay

When you’ve had your fill of urban adventures, come home to a tranquil home away from home at Oakwood Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur. Look forward to the hotel’s elegant suites, modern amenities, and premium recreational facilities — even if you stay indoors, there’s no doubt you’re on a much-deserved vacation! And thanks to Oakwood’s impeccably furnished apartments, you’ll be well-rested every night and ready to take on new adventures the next day. 

3. Singapore

Sure, Singapore is a year-round destination but there’s something in the air during the summer months that make travelling to this Southeast Asian destination extra appealing. Perhaps it’s sunshine and dry weather that make us inclined to be out and about: lounging lazily at Gardens by the Bay, exploring the hawker centres, playing at the theme parks and beaches of Sentosa, and even setting off on nature walks at Singapore’s many hidden parks. (When it gets too hot, it’s easy to pop in the nearest mall for some air-conditioning relief.)

Tip: Keep an eye and ear out for fun-filled events during the summer months. Singapore Food Festival typically takes place in July, a much-anticipated festival among foodies, while massive sales at shopping malls often last the entire summer. So, bring extra cash!

Where to stay

Even in glitzy and forward-thinking Singapore, one-of-a-kind accommodations aren’t always easy to find. Enter, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood, a trio of Singapore stays that are comfortable, stylish, and truly unique. There are the vintage shophouses making up KēSa House, then Wanderlust housed in a 1920s Art Deco heritage building. Finally, Ann Siang House is in historic Chinatown; yet inside, each room of the boutique hotel is packed with ultra-modern smart features. 

Oakwood Studios Singapore leans into a more classic serviced apartment experience with award-winning interior design. Relax and escape the heat with a dip in the rooftop swimming pool at this stylish serviced residence in Singapore. 

As part of ASR’s 4th anniversary, get additional 2X points when you book at any of the ASR participating Oakwood and The Unlimited Collection properties. Basically, you’re earning 2.5X ASR points total for stays at ASR participating Oakwood and The Unlimited Collection properties! Valid for stays from now until 31 May 2023. Book your stay with ASR

4. Thailand

If there’s one destination in Southeast Asia that’s famous for being a summer escape, it’s probably Thailand. Chase the sun and surf in swoon-worthy islands like Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Phi Phi — all idyllic despite the uptick in travellers flocking in from all around the world during the summer months. 

Bangkok, a popular Thai city packed with Michelin restaurants and endless shopping options, is not to be missed on your summer travels. Golden temples, ultra-cheap yet tasty street food, exciting nightlife, and vibrant markets and malls that will turn any traveller into a shopaholic — summer or not, the delights of the Land of Smiles make for an unforgettable vacation. An hour or two away from Bangkok are more tourist spots that make for fantastic day trip destinations such as the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, seafood haven Si Racha, and seaside hotspot Pattaya.

Where to stay

Discover a safe and comfortable retreat amid the wonderful urban chaos at the five-star Oakwood Suites Tiwanon Bangkok. Business and leisure travellers will love the tasteful interiors and sleek hotel facilities that you can indulge in between sightseeing. Not to mention, it’s conveniently located right next to an MRT station, making it easy to get around Bangkok. 

But if you’d rather be closer to the city centre, Oakwood Hotel & Residence Bangkok may be a better fit. Thanks to its proximity to the renowned ICONSIAM and Asiatique malls, you’re never far from premium dining and shopping options. On the other hand, Oakwood Hotel & Residence Sri Racha is perfect for travellers venturing outside of Bangkok for more than a day. 

5. Vietnam

Although Vietnam’s climate varies from north to south, the summer months between June and August are generally a good time to explore the entire country. Rain showers are common but typically quick, with ample sunshine in between for outdoor adventures, beach trips, and sightseeing. Yes, it’s hot and humid; head to the beaches of Central Vietnam to beat the heat, from the buzzy shores of An Bang to the white-sand My Khe Beach. Summer is particularly exciting for a visit to Danang, too, where an international fireworks festival takes place from June to July. 

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City, the centre of modern Vietnam. From the old temples and war museums to the magnificent Mekong Delta and incredible nightlife, you’ll discover how easy it is to get lost in this city in the best way possible. Ho Chi Minh is also a fine place to sample a wide array of tasty Vietnamese cuisine; trust us, authentic pho is a must-try, along with banh mi and com tam.

Where to stay

There’s no shortage of great hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. Stretch your dollar even further with Oakwood Residence Saigon or Oakwood Hotel & Apartments Saigon for a fully furnished abode that truly feels like home. Bright, airy rooms and common areas like co-working spaces and fitness centres guarantee a cosy stay for both business and leisure travellers spending their summer in Vietnam. 

6. Cambodia

Embrace the magic of summer in the country known as the Kingdom of Wonder: Cambodia. The Temples of Angkor don’t lose any of their magnificence, the scenery across the country is just as spectacular, and there are fewer tourists around popular attractions. And it rarely rains the whole day, anyway, with mornings usually remaining sunny and dry.

Travellers exploring Cambodia will often make a beeline for Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat. But you’ll miss out if you don’t make a stop at the capital Phnom Penh, which delivers charm in spades. Although the city’s most famous must-visit sites speak of its tragic past like Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, there’s more of Phnom Penh to discover: a thriving cafe culture, world-class dining spots, and an irresistible nightlife scene ranging from hole-in-the-wall pubs to sophisticated nightclubs. 

Where to stay

Wondering where to set up a base in the capital? Nestled in the heart of the city centre, Oakwood Premier Phnom Penh makes it easy for you to dive straight into the local culture. Heritage sites, museums, and even the Royal Palace of Cambodia are a 10-minute ride away, making it easy to see a wide breadth of attractions, even if you’re only staying for a few days. 

Bucket list destinations beyond Southeast Asia

7. India

Look beyond the summer destinations in Southeast Asia and your gaze will fall squarely on India. The massive country packs a punch with dazzling palaces and Buddhist temples, captivating Himalayan peaks and beaches, colourful festivals, flavourful cuisine, the iconic Taj Mahal — the list could probably go on forever! There’s so much to see that it’s hard to know exactly where to start. 

If you’re in India for summer vacation, then you’ve missed the peak season for travel in the country. Low season means potential discounts on flights and accommodations, even in popular spots like the Goa beaches. After basking on pristine shores, take your summer adventure to Hyderabad. Far from the breezy charm of the coast, the city proves to be just as enthralling, with attractions like the astonishing Golconda Fort and ancient quarters known as the Old City of Hyderabad.

Where to stay

Meet the other side of Hyderabad at Oakwood Residence Kapil Hyderabad, located at Gachibowli IT Park in the city’s financial district. Modern, elegant, and family-friendly, it offers comfortable and convenient accommodations to explorers in this part of India. Business travellers are especially taken with this five-star stay as it’s close to the airport and key business hubs, but Oakwood is just as warm and welcoming to big families and leisure tourists. 

Bonus destination: Australia

Do you prefer to escape the heat on your mid-year break? Enter Australia, a beautiful country in the Pacific that’s a staple on bucket lists for outdoorsy travellers. A staggeringly vast country with just about every natural gem you’re dreaming of, from lush rainforests and sandstone monoliths to wondrous coral reefs and stunning beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. 

And, of course, the breathtaking Australian landscape provides plenty of opportunities for adventures in May and June; marvelling at sacred Uluru, road trips through the outback, trekking at national parks in the Northern Territory, visiting the Great Barrier Reef, and even skiing in the Snowy Mountains. 

Then, come in from the bush to play in the colourful city of Melbourne. The capital of Victoria is the epitome of cosmopolitan cool: stylish, artsy, and caffeine-obsessed. Stroll through the streets to snap photos of historic architecture, eye-catching street art, and sky-high buildings, then head to the St. Kilda pier to bask in its relaxed and bohemian charm. 

Where to stay

Between soaking up the sun and sipping coffee in hipster cafes, rest up at the Oakwood Premier Melbourne. This luxurious hotel is definitely a premium spot to relax, with upscale accommodations, sleek modern facilities, and multiple dining options where you can get a taste of Australian flavours. Located on the tranquil edges of Melbourne, the hotel enjoys beautiful views of the cityscape and Port Phillip Bay.

So, are you ready for your next summer adventure? It’s time to pack your bags, slip on your flip-flops, and gear up for a summer to remember!

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