When you think of Japan, what comes to mind? Tokyo, Osaka and Hokkaido, right? These major tourist towns attract the highest number of traffic every year. However, Japan has many gorgeous islands and panoramic scenery in other cities too that is for sure, worth travelling to.

Countries such as India have over-populated cities that some may find too claustrophobic. What most leave out are the smaller suburban areas and the mountains that can be found away from the city that holds the same rich culture. If you have always been the adventurous type, why not take the road less travelled (literally)?

Here are 5 Unique Travel Destinations in Asia You Never Knew About – Treat Yourself To Asia’s Most Well-Kept Secrets.

Source: Foreigner CN

#1 HOH XIL, TIBET

Hoh Xil in Tibet is China’s largest and the world’s third largest uninhabited area and it home to massive wildlife.

This beautiful area is made up of the most beautiful mountainous landscapes and is one of the main sources of the Yangtze River. Get in touch with the very primal part of life, where you free yourself of worries and take in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Photo Credit: ecns

Average price of accommodation: Below S$40 a night for an Airnb apartment Cheapest flight price: S$950 return (excluding visa, compulsory to obtain) Average cost of food a day: S$20 (all meals) Total for 5 days (all expenses): Approx. S$1200

Source: Japan Guide

#2 SHODOSHIMA, JAPAN

As the second largest island in the Sento Inland Sea, this “Mediterranean-style” Japanese island is home to beaches, resorts and lovely coastal sceneries.

Check out soy sauce factories, olive farms and Monkey Park when you visit this island.

Photo Credit: therealjapan

Average price of accommodation: S$30 a night for AirBnb apartment, S$250 (hotel) Cheapest flight price: S$650 return, including two-way transfer from Tokyo Average cost of food a day: S$50 for all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): S$1050 (Airbnb apartment), S$1900 (hotel)

Source: Garden of Dreams

#3 GARDEN OF DREAMS, NEPAL

This neo-classical historic garden, is a nice respite from the bustling city of Kathmandu and provides a very lovely and tranquil atmosphere.

Although Garden of Dreams is not a full city, it is a must-visit when you venture to Kathmandu to appreciate the historical monuments and the flora & fauna.

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

Average price of accommodation: S$50 a night (3-star hotel), $25 a night (AirBnb apartment) Cheapest flight price: S$600 return Average cost of food a day: S$25 for all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): Approx S$885

Source: Danum Valley

#4 DANUM VALLEY, SABAH

This is for all the nature lovers out there. Danum Valley is situated in a rainforest where you can have a full-on experience learning about nature and going for nature walks.

You can choose to stay in the rainforest lodges where you will be treated to a very quintessential experience.

Photo Credit: borneo holidays

Average price of accommodation: S$40 per night for an AirBnb apartment (Rainforest lodge recommended but is much pricier) Cheapest flight price: S$130 Average cost of food a day: S$20 for all meals Total for 3 days (all expenses): S$270

Source: Kerala Tourism

#5 MUNNAR, INDIA

If you are a tea fan, look no further than Munnar, a fairly unknown part of the mountainous regions in India.

Despite this, Munnar houses beautiful tea plantations that span over large areas and has luxurious hotels and lodges where you can stay in, with mountain views.

Photo Credit: kerala tourism

Average price of accommodation: S$50 per night (Airbnb apartment), S$200 a night (luxurious mountain view hotel) Cheapest flight price: S$182 return Average cost of food a day: S$20 all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): S$1000 (hotel), S$462 (AirBnb apartment)

The Ministry of Manpower has just released the official public holidays for Singapore in 2017 and here’s a great piece of news – there is an increment of one long weekend in comparison to 2016.

This simply means that there is a grand total of seven long weekends in 2017!

Thanks to the emergence of AirBnb, low-cost carriers and Singapore’s proximity to many foreign cities, travelling on a long weekend has long become a norm for Singaporeans.

Within this guide, you will find the dates of Singapore’s seven official long weekends in 2017 and our recommendations on where we think you should visit during each long weekend.

OVERVIEW OF SINGAPORE’S LONG WEEKENDS IN 2017

#1 New Year – 31 Dec 2016 to 02 Jan 2017 (Sat to Mon)
#2 Chinese New Year – 28 to 30 Jan 2017 (Sat to Mon)
#3 Good Friday – 14 to 16 Apr 2017 (Fri to Sun)
#4 Labour Day – 29 Apr to 01 May 2017 (Sat to Mon)
#5 Hari Raya Puasa – 24 to 26 Jun 2017 (Sat to Mon)
#6 Hari Raya Haji – 01 to 03 Sep 2017 (Fri to Sun)
#7 Christmas Day – 23 to 25 Dec 2017 (Sat to Mon)

#1 NEW YEAR – TAIPEI

Kickstart your new year in Taipei city with a blast! The fireworks display from the iconic Taipei 101 is spectacular. Then, spend the remaining time stuffing your faces silly with mouthwatering Taiwanese delicacies at their bustling local night markets. Check out our travel guide on what to eat, see and do in Taipei.

When: 31 Dec 2016 to 02 Jan 2017
Where: Taipei, Taiwan

#2 CHINESE NEW YEAR – HONG KONG

Chinese New Year in Hong Kong is serious business. In fact, it has been listed by Forbes as one of the world’s 10 best events. The entire city will be in good cheer; pray for good fortune at the temples, admire the spellbindingly beautiful fireworks, watch vibrant street performances and more. For more inspiration on what to do in Hong Kong, read up our travel guide here.

When: 28 to 30 Jan 2017
Where: Hong Kong

#3 GOOD FRIDAY – BANGKOK

The capital of Thailand has always been one of the most frequented destinations amongst Singaporeans for its amazing street food, pampering Thai massages, fantastic retail therapy, bedazzling rooftop bars, affordable staycations and the list goes on. Good Friday is just another excuse for us to jet to the Land of Smiles.

When: 14 to 16 Apr 2017
Where: Bangkok, Thailand

#4 LABOUR DAY – BALI

According to weather experts, the best time to visit Bali is in April and May due to its dryer climate and lower humidity. Prices of hotels are also approximately 30% to 50% cheaper than peak period! The Island of Gods is such a romantic tropical destination. For more information, check out our destination guide to Bali.

When: 29 Apr to 01 May 2017
Where: Bali, Indonesia

#5 HARI RAYA PUASA – PERTH

Desperate to escape from the unbearable heat? Well, hop onto a plane and you will soon be enjoying the chilly weathers (temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C in April) of Perth after a 4-hour flight. Here are our top 10 recommendations on what to do in Perth.

When: 24 to 26 June 2017
Where: Perth, Australia

#6 HARI RAYA HAJI – MACAU

Macau is renowned for its gaming scene, with many world-class integrated resorts and casinos. Gaming isn’t the best thing to do but we can always enjoy the architecture of the grand buildings, nightly light shows, scrumptious Portuguese egg tarts, pork chop buns, tasty almond cookies and whatnot. Here’s our guide on what to do in Macau in 72 hours.

When: 01 to 03 Sep 2017
Where: Macau, China

#7 CHRISTMAS DAY – MANILA

When daylight wanes away, the capital of the Philippines evolves into a magnificent light show. Visitors can expect over-the-top Christmas decorations across the Filipino city – but hey, we are not complaining! The Yuletide festive period in Manila is so impressive that even CNN has given a thumbs up.

When: 23 to 25 Dec 2017
Where: Manila, The Philippines

If you do not celebrate Chinese New Year, simply want a getaway or are skipping this year’s celebrations just because you cannot deal with inquisitive relatives who are forever interrogating you about your lives, why not go on a short vacation to a neighbouring Asian country? It is still cold in February in Japan and is also the peak time to catch Ume blossoms in full bloom.

Countries such as Phnom Penh will be having their ‘best weather’ in February, with slightly cooler temperatures. You can also hit the beach for some sun-soakin’.

Here are 8 Best Asian Cities to Travel To During The Chinese New Year 2016 Long Weekend.

#1 BALI

Bali is the quintessential beach destination in Asia and despite being labeled as ‘touristy’, we always still have a ton of fun. Think water sports (banana boat, parasailing, water skiing, wake-boarding etc) and hippy cafes with world class coffees; or the sexiest pools and Balinese spa treatments.

Also, the food in Bali is to-die-for. We will never say no to a vacation here. For starters, here is a Destination Guide to help you decide which part of Bali to visit.

We also have our favourite cafes documented on this list of Cafes in Bali You Must Visit.

#2 BANGKOK

Bangkok is probably one of the most visited cities by Singaporeans. You can either treat yourself to a shopping spree, indulge in daily massages (read our guide on the Best Thai Massages and Spa in Bangkok), or take the road less travelled and explore the suburbs of Bangkok – away from the main city area.

We have come across hipster barber shops, underground cafes and really fantastic seafood restaurants when we ventured slightly farther from the main city area. So if you are daring and adventurous (and maybe a little sick of the city life), go for it.

Otherwise, stay in the city and our guide to 34 Best Cafes in Bangkok will keep you occupied.

#3 KUALA LUMPUR

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is pretty fun during the Chinese New Year period and you can expect festive fun at temples. The main city area will light up in its full glory, too. Malaysian food is irresistible, and slimming plans should all be shelved when in KL; this is also one of the reasons why we love visiting KL.

Visit Sunway Pyramid and Sunway Lagoon, just about 20 minutes away by train from KL. Have a ball of time hopping on thrilling rides at Sunway Lagoon and do some shopping at the gargantuan Sunway Pyramid.

#4 MANILA

There is a whole lot to see and do in Manila and one thing we recommend doing is to visit the historical monuments and beautiful churches there. Also, Filipino food is a delight!

There are also amusement parks if you are into that, but most of all, come to Manila, relax and explore without a tight agenda. Just trust that it is “always more fun in the Philippines”.

#5 OSAKA

Why Osaka? February is the month where the Ume blossoms bloom in their full glory. And because Osaka is dubbed as the Kitchen of Japan. That’s right; you may be missing the pineapple tarts and pork jerky during Chinese New Year, but you are eating no less at Osaka. We have a whole list of Restaurants and Cafes in Osaka for you to check out, as well as the best Osaka Street Snacks You Must Not Miss.

We also had one of our best meals at Kigawa, where we experienced Kappo – The Art of Dining in Osaka.

Need more reasons? Universal Studios Japan is located right here!

#6 PENANG

Penang Laksa. Yes, it attributes largely to our love for Penang.

Penang food is honestly in a league of its own, and may we say they are the best in Malaysia. If you are a food enthusiast, Penang is your paradise.

You can have a chill day at Georgetown, or head to Penang National Park for a hike and marvel at the beauty of nature. Penang is among our picks for the most affordable destination to head to as well, and here are 10 Reasons Why You Should Book A Trip To Penang.

#7 PHNOM PENH

Weather analysts have forecasted February to be ‘coolest’ month. By coolest, we mean still warm but bearable. Weather in Cambodia can be pretty tough but rest assured, the country is beautiful.

Phnom Penh is a place where you really have to dig deep and explore by foot to seek the true beauty. Visit historical places; visit palaces and museums. It will be a truly spiritual experience.

#8 PHUKET

Phuket is the most popular beach destination in Thailand, and its popularity is won over by its pristine beaches and luxurious holiday resorts. Besides being a heaven to relax at, you can also visit historical towns and sites and go on a nature hike. If you are partying in Patong Beach, read our Guide on Where To Dine At In Patong Beach.

So much to love about Phuket, and our favourite island has to be Cape Panwa – the Southern tip with the most gorgeous blues and spellbindingly beautiful sunsets.

In 2016, there are a total of six long weekends thanks to the various public holidays that fall on either a Friday or Monday. To maximise your travel opportunities, one should know when the long weekends are and which flights would be the shortest and cheapest.

Singapore is the ultimate gateway to other Asian countries and her strategic location has made travelling to other nations extremely possible in just a weekend. With several popular cities reachable within a mere few hours of flight and the rise of low-cost airlines, travelling is no longer limited to just the wealthy. All you have to do is take advantage of long weekends!

Here’s a guide to Singapore’s long weekends in 2016 – when and where to go. We have shortlisted a nearby destination for each long weekend period.

GUIDE TO LONG WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM SINGAPORE IN 2016

New Year – 01 to 03 January (Fri to Sat)
Chinese New Year – 06 to 09 February (Sat to Tue)
Good Friday – 25 to 27 March (Fri to Sat)
Labour Day – 30 April to 02 May (Sat to Mon)
Hari Raya Haji – 10 to 12 September (Sat to Mon)
Christmas Day – 24 to 26 December (Sat to Mon)

#1 KUALA LUMPUR – NEW YEAR’S DAY

It is but a 65-minute flight from Singapore to the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. The vibrant city has a plethora of dining, shopping and nightlife options that will keep visitors entertained throughout the long weekend. Join in the fun as the whole city celebrates 2016!

Click here to read our 10 street food and cafe recommendations in Kuala Lumpur.

When: 01 to 03 January 2016
Where: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

#2 BANGKOK – CHINESE NEW YEAR

Enjoy a 4-day vacation during the Chinese New Year public holidays. You could even stretch your holiday further by taking additional days off – if you have enough leaves. Immerse yourselves in Chinese traditional celebrations at Bangkok’s Chinatown precinct, treat yourself to a shopping spree and go on a feasting marathon.

It takes only 2 hours and 20 minutes for a one-way trip to Bangkok! For more inspiration on what to eat and do in the capital of Thailand, check out our Bangkok travel guides.

When: 06 to 09 February 2016
Where: Bangkok, Thailand

#3 HONG KONG – GOOD FRIDAY

Why not celebrate the Easter holidays at dim sum land aka Hong Kong? It takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to fly from Singapore to Hong Kong and we are sure you will love the splendid variety of food, amazing hiking trails and abundance of nightlife destinations.

For useful tips on what to do, eat and see in Hong Kong, check out our comprehensive Hong Kong guides.

When: 25 to 27 March 2016
Where: Hong Kong

#4 LANGKAWI – LABOUR DAY

Accessible within just a 85-min flight is Langkawi, an archipelago in Malaysia. The turquoise waters and tranquil setting of the Malaysian West Coast Islands would instantly rejuvenate your tired souls. It’s Labour Day after all and you truly deserve ample of rest.

When: 30 April to 01 May 2016
Where: Langkawi, Malaysia

#5 JAKARTA – HARI RAYA HAJI

Situated just an hour and fifty minutes away by plane, Jakarta is an alternative getaway destination for the busy working adults who can only find time for a weekend holiday. The capital of Indonesia itself is an interesting city to explore with great food and parties.

Read the 10 Hotspots To Be and To Be Seen in Jakarta.

When: 10 to 12 September 2016
Where: Jakarta

#6 BALI – CHRISTMAS DAY

Reward yourself with a relaxing trip to Bali, The Island of the Gods. Contrary to popular belief, a trip to this Indonesian island is actually incredibly affordable – and it takes just about two hours to get to Bali. It’s a great place to celebrate Christmas

With so many tantalising gourmet offers, we know how frustrating it can get to decide on what to eat. For a start, read our handy Bali guides!

When: 24 to 26 December 2016
Where: Bali, Indonesia

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

This guide on weekend getaways from Singapore was last updated on 1 July 2014.

One of the best things about being in Singapore is that it’s just a few hours away from many amazing cities in the region. If you are planning for a short weekend getaway, here are the Top 10 travel destinations where you can go for cheap shopping, good food, or a relaxed beach holiday.

SAIGON, VIETNAM

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) – commonly known as Saigon – is the largest city in Vietnam. While Saigon isn’t as well-known as Bangkok, it offers a very different experience. We were amazed by how the street food vendors can serve food – that is fresh, and delicious – from their tiny portable kitchens.

Read our Travel guide to Ho Chi Minh City.

BALI, INDONESIA

Gorgeous beaches, luxurious villas, wonderful spas, and fantastic restaurants – Bali is the perfect place for a nice weekend getaway. we particularly love the fact that they have plenty of great dining concepts, and most of them are very reasonably-priced. Bali is the mini paradise in South East Asia.

For more recommendations, read our curated food & travel guides on Bali. 

Bangkok, Thailand

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Asia, Bangkok seems to have it all – cheap shopping, fantastic street food, and good massage. It is not difficult to understand why so many people love to visit Bangkok every year. Pad Thai and Mango Sticky Rice are calling your name.

For more recommendations, read our curated food & travel guides on Bangkok.

BORACAY, PHILIPPINES

Boracay is truly Philippines’ paradise, and it is the best beach in Asia that we have ever stepped foot on – yet. Every morning, we woke up to awe-inspiring views of the White Beach; palm trees swayed and seemingly orchestrated a symphony, azure waters still and calm, sands as white as cotton fluffs, heaven and earth merged. Nothing lingers in the mind more than this picturesque sight, and we could use hours just daydreaming and frolicking by the beach.

Read: 10 reasons why you should visit Boracay at least once in your life.

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA

Australia is a highly popular holiday destination, and when you mention about a trip down-under, most people would think of cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Gold Coast. However, not many know about Darwin in the Northern Territory, which is a real shame because it not only offers a unique experience like no other, but it is also just a four-hour flight away from Singapore.

Read 10 things to do in Darwin, Australia.

HONG KONG

What do we need to say about Hong Kong? From high end shopping for Prada and Gucci to bargain hunting in the Ladies’ Market; to dining in Michelin starred restaurants and local cha chaan ting – Hong Kong is a paradise for food and shopping.

For more recommendations, read our curated food & travel guide on Hong Kong.

GENTING, MALAYSIA

With its cool weather and exciting theme park rides, Genting is a favourite weekend getaway spot for many Singaporeans. For those of you who have never been to the mountain resort, you must make a trip there soon!

Read our Travel Guide on Resorts World Genting.

KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA

If you are looking to escape from the busy city life and go somewhere nice for a weekend, here’s why Kota Kinabalu should be on your short list.

The capital of Sabah state in East Malaysia is only two and a half hours away from Singapore, and there, you can either head to Mount Kinabalu for a hiking adventure, or spend a lazy day at the beach at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa. Once you reach the beautiful resort, you feel like you just opened the door to paradise. It is without a doubt – the perfect destination for a lazy beach getaway.

Read our feature on Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa.

TAIPEI, TAIWAN

Mention Taipei and this commonly springs to mind: awesome night markets, kawaii girls, friendly locals, and bubble tea. And the best part is that it is only about five hours away by plane; it is no wonder that so many Singaporeans love to visit Taipei.

Spend the day cafe-hopping in Yong Kang Street – a dining destination, and one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Taipei – and explore the famous night markets in the evening.

For more recommendations, read our curated food & travel guides on Taipei.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES

We have always believed that Philippines is Asia’s biggest culinary secret. While other countries have been getting attention for their cuisines, very little has been mentioned about Philippines. Filipinos love to eat, and there are so many good food in the country. Manila, in particular, has many fantastic restaurants and eateries.

Moreover, the city is also rich in culture; you can find strong architectural heritage in churches, forts, and other colonial buildings.

Read our Guide on 10 Things to do in Manila.

PHUKET, THAILAND

When you mention nice beaches in South East Asia, Phuket – Thailand’s largest island at the southern tip – immediately comes to mind. Patong Beach may be the most popular spot in Phuket, but for a quiet and relaxing holiday, head to Sri Panwa Resort. For a nice weekend trip from Singapore, there’s no place like Phuket.