LisaSingapore is a great place for travellers – it offers a plethora of options for affordable and exciting getaways. All you have to do is hop on a flight or ferry, and a whole new adventure awaits you.
To make sure that you’ll not run out of places to visit (at least not so soon), we’ve created the ultimate list of getaway ideas from Singapore. This guide should be your go-to for vacation ideas, whether you’re a beach lover, adventure seeker or hardcore foodie.
Beach getaways
1. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket [fzPrice]hkt[/fzPrice] is one of the most famous beach destinations in the world, and it makes the perfect getaway for families, couples or even backpackers. Dotted with accommodation ranging from luxurious five star hotels and villas to cheap hostels, Phuket is able to suit all budget and needs. It boasts a wild nightlife scene, scenic sunsets, exciting activities and delectable seafood.
2. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Image credit: Daniel Hoherd
Phu Quoc is an island in Vietnam, located off the coast of Cambodia. It is famous for its white-sand beaches and resorts along the palm-lined southwest coast.
Still largely uncommercialised, Phu Quoc is perfect for those seeking a respite from the busy city life. Have a wildlife immersion, hike through the dense jungles or laze the days away by the beach.
3. Nha Trang, Vietnam
Image credit: Khánh Hmoong
Nha Trang is a large coastal city popular for its gorgeous beaches and hot springs. Other than swimming, sunbathing and other beach-related activities, visitors can also have a mud bath at Thap Ba Hot Spring, visit the amusement park at Vinpearl Land or get out of the city and explore the mountain ranges nearby.
4. Da Nang, Vietnam
Image credit: Christopher Crouzet
Da Nang [fzPrice]dad[/fzPrice] is rated one of the more natural, uncommercialised beaches with shiny white sand and clear blue water which adds up to a spectacular view.
Although Da Nang is well-known for their beach resorts, their best restaurants are often overlooked. If you’re in the area, make sure to visit Ba Duong for some banh xeo, a fried rice flour crepe filled with bean sprouts, shrimp, spring onions and mung beans.
5. Koh Samui, Thailand
Image credit: Sarah_Ackerman
The beach paradise of Koh Samui is considered one of Thailand’s most unique travel spots, with a broad appeal from budget travellers to luxurious holiday goers. Just a two hour plane ride from Singapore, Koh Samui is the perfect holiday spot for a relaxing beach getaway.
Also Read: 10 Reasons Why Koh Samui Should Be Your Next Thailand Destination
6. Krabi, Thailand
Image credit: Mike Behnken
Krabi [fzPrice]kbv[/fzPrice] is a much loved getaway destination, famed for its scenic limestone cliffs and breathtaking beaches. Base yourself in Ao Nang, Krabi’s vibrant tourist centre which has the laidback atmosphere of a small town.
In Krabi, go island-hopping, rock climbing, kayaking or just stay in town and visit local markets and indulge in delicious street food. At the end of the day, wind down by having a rejuvenating Thai massage.
7. Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is the largest of 99 islands in the Langkawi archipelago and is filled with forested hills, romantic white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Located alongside Malaysia in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is also nicknamed the “legendary island” because of myths and legends that are associated with the geographical makeup of the island.
8. Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Image credit: Iris Young
Renowned for its environmental excellence, Puerto Princesa has been awarded several times as the Philippines’ cleanest and greenest city.
Head off the coast of Honda Bay, where you can snorkel in some of the clearest waters and swim close to brightly coloured fish. And oh, don’t leave Puerto Princesa without visiting the world famous underground river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
9. Boracay, Philippines
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Nicknamed the Philippines’ paradise, Boracay features spotless white sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees and surrounded by calm, clear waters.
From luxurious spa treatments to wild sunset cruise parties, there is always something to do for everyone in Boracay.
10. Cebu, Philippines
Image credit: nuksfan604
If you hate the crowd in Boracay, head to Cebu [fzPrice]ceb[/fzPrice] for an equally exciting beach getaway.
Go to Malapascua Island for an incredible scuba diving experience, and if you’re lucky, you can get real close encounters with thresher sharks. You can also stay in Bantayan Island to frolic around its long stretch of white sand beach and snorkel at its crystal clear waters. Mactan Island is another great option if you want to stay close to the city. Enjoy 5-star accommodations, relaxing spa treatments and exciting beach activities all within close proximity to the vibrant city nightlife.
11. Bali, Indonesia
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Bali is favored by adventurers as well as those seeking a relaxed ‘eat, pray, love‘ sort of vacation.
The deep blue waters off the coast of Bali’s beaches is a good spot for diving and discovering the underwater world while the dense jungles with monkeys and stone temples are ideal for exploration.
12. Lombok, Indonesia
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Lombok is often overshadowed by its sister island, Bali. Although these islands are close in proximity, Bali and Lombok are worlds apart.
Lombok is untouched and serene, unlike Bali, which is undoubtedly one of the most popular island destinations in Indonesia. In Lombok, you can find beautiful beaches, impressive waterfalls and friendly locals.
City getaways
13. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Ho Chi Minh [fzPrice]sgn[/fzPrice] is a city of chaos and great adventures. Quickly conquer your fear of crossing the busy streets, for there are many exciting attractions to be discovered on foot such as the Reunification Market and Ben Thanh Market. This city is a shopping paradise, dotted with many street markets, antique stores and silk boutiques.
Check out the five things to do in Ho Chi Minh City without breaking the bank.
14. Hong Kong
There are many reasons why Hong Kong [fzPrice]hkg[/fzPrice] is one of the most visited cities in the world – no, it’s not just because of delicious dim sum. Despite its close association to China, Hong Kong has its own distinct personality.
This cosmopolitan city is densely populated with restaurants and incredible attractions. A few activities you should have in your itinerary include riding a tram to Victoria Peak, shopping at Mong Kok and having a fun night out in Lan Kwai Fong.
15. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur [fzPrice]kul[/fzPrice] is a blend of traditional and modern influences, filled with historic monuments, mega-sized shopping malls and bustling street markets.
Another striking aspect of this city is the vibrant mix of colorful mosques and temples of the country’s Malay, Chinese and Indian communities. Head to Kuala Lumpur for a city getaway filled with great food, entertainment and shopping!
16. Taipei, Taiwan
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The capital of Taiwan [fzPrice]tpe[/fzPrice] has plenty of exciting attractions, from traditional temples and historical shrines to bustling night markets. Shopaholics will love shopping spots like Wufenpu, and outdoor lovers will be spoilt with a variety of great hikes to pick from!
But don’t just trod the beaten path – for a true adventure, try these unconventional things to do in Taiwan.
17. Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Image credit: Jared Yeh
Kaohsiung [fzPrice]khh[/fzPrice] is a modern city located in southern Taiwan and successfully blends both ancient and contemporary culture. Famous sights such as the the breathtaking Fo Guang Shan monastary as well as the view from the Ferris wheel on the roof of Dream Mall cannot be missed.
18. Foodie Getaways
Macau
Image credit:Hugo Yu
Macau is famous for amazing food choices with options ranging from seaweed pork floss rolls to Portuguese egg tarts and pork chop buns.
If you’re a foodie, Macau is the perfect place for you. In fact, the only problem you’ll face here is deciding on what to choose from the menu!
19. Penang, Malaysia
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Popular amongst locals and tourists, Penang cuisine is the main attraction of Penang, Malaysia. Be sure to try the ‘hawker food’ served in road-side stalls. Penang offers a diverse blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine, which reflects the multicultural personality of this city.
After indulging in delicious food, walk around the historic George Town to admire unique architecture.
20. Ipoh, Malaysia
Ipoh, one of the largest cities in Malaysia, [fzPrice]iph[/fzPrice] is widely visited by travellers around the region for their delicious dishes. If you’re headed to Ipoh, don’t forget to add Ipoh Hor Fun, Ipoh White Coffee and Ipoh Chee Cheong Fun to some of your must-try dishes list. On top of that, Ipoh is also a playground for adventure lovers, with fun activities available such as water rafting and caving. Not convinced? Check out some of the reasons why Ipoh should be your next holiday destination.
21. Malacca, Malaysia
Image credit:Biyu Lau
Malacca is famous for its rich Peranakan culture, which is reflected in their delicious cuisine, also referred to as Nyonya food. Nyonya food is a fusion of Chinese and Malay ingredients, and the product is a blend of both spicy and sweet dishes. This unique style of cooking was brought by Chinese traders who adopted the Malay way of life when they settled in Malacca.
Adventure getaways
22. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Image credit: Darren Pearce
Kota Kinabalu [fzPrice]kbi[/fzPrice] is a paradise for adventure lovers, and no, we’re not just talking about hiking Mount Kinabalu.
If you’re not in the mood for alpine sports, Kota Kinabalu is also famous for exhilarating water sports such as whitewater rafting and diving.
23. Chiang Rai, Thailand
Image credit: Riccardo Romano
If you’re into hiking, Chiang Rai [fzPrice]cei[/fzPrice] is the perfect getaway destination for you.
Not to be confused with Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost large-scale city, and it is well known for the relatively hilly terrain and amazing trails in the area.
Cultural Getaways
24. Yangon, Myanmar
Image credit: Jose Javier Martin Espartosa
After many years of political instability, Yangon [fzPrice]rgn[/fzPrice] has finally opened its doors to the world. Curious travellers wander the streets full of unexpected finds, marvelling at grand colonial treasures and enjoying the cultural immersion.
Some of the must-visit attractions in Yangon include the grand Shwedagon Pagoda and Bogyoke market.
25. Chiang Mai, Bangkok
Formerly known as Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai [fzPrice]cnx[/fzPrice] is Thailand’s second largest city and it feels worlds away from Bangkok.
Surrounded by gorgeous mountains and filled with full of history and culture, Chiang Mai makes an exciting getaway. There are plenty of things to do in Chiang Mai, from exploring temples and watching an elephant show to shopping at night bazaars and enrolling in a cooking class.
26. Hanoi, Vietnam
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Made up of a blend of traditional and modern as well as Chinese, Vietnamese and French influences, Hanoi is arguably one of Asia’s most exotic capital cities.
Make your way to Hanoi [fzPrice]han[/fzPrice] to experience its traditional charm, and spend your days exploring the Old Quarter and beyond.
27. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Widely popular amongst backpackers, Phnom Penh is a stimulating city with a rich history that is reflected in its unique architecture. After settling down in the city, be sure to stop by the Killing Fields and the S-21 prison museum.
28. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Image credit: Mike Behnken
Siem Reap [fzPrice]rep[/fzPrice] is the jump-off point to the impressive Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Be sure to arrive before dawn to catch the surreal sunrise from Angkor Wat. If you’re looking to splurge on this holiday, there are helicopter rides available that will allow you to observe the temple from far above.
Siem Reap itself is also an incredible city to explore, and you can consider hiring a tuk tuk tour guide to show you around!
Underrated / Little-known
29. Iloilo, Philippines
Image credit: Thomas Stellmach
Widely referred to as the “Heart of the Philippines”, Iloilo is a major tourist destination located in the heart shaped Panay Island in Central Philippines.
Iloilo prides itself in its delicious cuisine, well-preserved historical buildings and stunning natural landscapes as well as its many exciting festivals celebrated throughout the province.
30. Hat Yai, Thailand
Image credit: ephidryn
Located in the Songkhla Province of southern Thailand, Hat Yai is well-known for its amazing seafood served in various styles.
Hop on the cable car to enjoy outstanding views over the city, and be sure to explore the floating markets, flea markets and bazaars. You can pamper yourself silly with facials and massages, visit the many Buddhist temples or even go hiking in the countryside!
With all these lovely destinations that we’re surrounded by, there’s no reason to say that you’re running out of getaway ideas!
