Need a break from the city life in Singapore? We feel you. Living in a fast-paced environment such as Singapore would mean that many of us crave a getaway for a good rest.

Even so, not many of us have the luxury of taking time off for travel as and when we desire due to different commitments.

If you are looking for a fuss-free day trip without the hassle of having to change your currency and bringing your passport, here are 8 Islands You Can Explore Without Travelling Out Of Singapore.

#1 CONEY ISLAND PARK

Pulau Serangoon, or better known as Coney Island Park, is slightly off Punggol and you can get to the West entrance of the island by walking along the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk.

It is currently a favourite spot among cyclists! If this is your first time going to Coney Island Park, do take note that the park closes at 7pm as no lighting is provided in this eco-friendly island.

Photo Credit: Erich Chew

#2 KEPPEL ISLAND

Admire the lineup of super yachts in the day and sip on wine at Privé Cafe by night at Keppel Bay which is located on Keppel Island. The breathtaking view makes it a romantic destination for couples on a date.

Walk across Keppel Bay Bridge, which links Keppel Island to the mainland.

Photo Credit: Breathing Asia, Living Singapore

#3 KUSU ISLAND

The story behind Kusu Island will have you intrigued about the place before you even head there. Devotees of Tua Pek Kong believe that the deity transformed a tortoise into Kusu Island, which translates to “tortoise island”.

Visit the tortoise sanctuary, play beach volleyball on the beach shores or dip into the lagoons of Kusu Island. You can take a ferry from Marina South Pier.

Photo Credit: Desi Expat

#4 LAZARUS ISLAND

Looking for a white sand beach with glistening waters sans the crowd? You will get all that at Lazarus Island! Sounds too good to be true? Visit the island in the morning for a picnic and you can see its beauty for yourself.

By the way, you can walk to Lazarus Island from Saint John’s Island so that’s two islands off your checklist!

Photo Credit: awesomepics.sg

#5 PULAU SEMAKAU

Don’t be taken aback when we tell you that this is a landfill site because that only takes up the eastern side of the island. Recent developments of Pulau Semakau has made it a tourist friendly area for those who love nature.

Look forward to thriving mangrove habitats and a coral population. Those who are interested can even learn more at the coral nursery. Book a tour with NEA beforehand!

#6 PULAU UBIN

One of the most visited offshore islands of Singapore, Pulau Ubin needs no introduction. Rent a bicycle there and challenge the uneven terrains which are a notch higher than what you can find at East Coast Park or Sentosa.

Other leisure activities to do there are kayaking, climbing the 20-metre tall Jejawi Tower and a chalet vacation with your buddies.

You have to take a boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.

Photo Credit: SG Asia City

#7 SAINT JOHN’S ISLAND

Started off as a rehabilitation centre for opium addicts, today’s St John’s Island is a must-visit for many Singaporeans and even tourists. The island is home to clean lagoons, beaches, routes for trekking and soccer fields.

There are bungalow chalets where you can have a barbeque gathering together for up to 60 people. Hop onto a ferry from Marina South Pier to get there.

Photo Credit: The Straits Times

#8 SISTERS’ ISLANDS

It has been said that two sisters who drowned in the storm were never found but at where they were last seen are two islands which stand till today—no surprises for guessing which islands they are referring to.

That aside, snorkelling enthusiasts have another place to add on to their list. Witness rich diversities of coral reefs, giant clams, sea horses and more! If that’s not your thing, you can opt for a guided tour with NParks instead.

Get onto a ferry from Marina South Pier which will take you to Sisters’ Islands.

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.

If you are looking to escape from the busy city life and go somewhere nice for a weekend, here’s why Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa should be on your short list.

Kota Kinabalu is only two and a half hours away from Singapore, and 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.

Everything you need is within the resort, so there is really no need to step out unless you want to visit the sleepy town, or go for a hiking adventure on Mount Kinabalu – the tallest mountain in South-East Asia.

I was toying the idea of going for a hike, but deep down in my heart, I knew that was never going to happen.

F&B options like Shang Palace, Peppino, and Cafe Tutu ensure that you will never go hungry.

The main highlight is surely the Sunset Bar which sits at the edge of the resort and offers a spectacular view of the beautiful sunset.

You can also pamper yourself at Chi, The Spa – a standalone spa village which sits on an island connected to the hotel via a private causeway.

I had a pleasant experience staying in Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort. Given the proximity to Singapore, it is one of my top choices for a quiet weekend getaway.

Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort
20 Jalan Aru Tanjung Aru
88100 Kota Kinabalu, KK, Malaysia
088-327-888

Bring A&W back to Singapore!

Batam is an island in Riau Islands Province of Indonesia. It is located approximately 20km off Singapore, with the ferry journey from Singapore to Batam taking around 45 minutes – the perfect weekend getaway near Singapore.

It is a shame that Batam has been known as the place where dirty old men go in search of sex. To me, Batam is a nice place where you can enjoy fun water sports, fresh seafood, cheap shopping and affordable spa & massages.

Here’s a list of things to do in Batam for a short weekend getaway:

Eat + Shopping + Massage

A&W Fast Food Restaurant

Ever since A&W pulled out from Singapore many years ago, the one in Batam is the nearest option for Singaporeans to satisfy their craving for A&W root beer float, curly fries and ice cream waffle. I love A&W!

Shopping in Nagoya Hill Mall

From what I understand, Nagoya Hill is the biggest shopping mall on the island. You can buy the popular kueh lapis (layer cakes); eat ayam penyet (crispy fried chicken) at Nagoya Hill’s food street; buy Indomie Mi goreng from the hypermarket; and shop around for bargains in the mall.

Cheap Massage in Batam

I highly recommend Isabella Massage House at Nagoya Hills. From the traditional Balinese massage (170,000 rupiah/SGD$25 for 2 hours) to the popular Thai Massage, there are different massage therapies to choose from.

The massage parlour provides free transportation to-and-fro (for the whole day), and I love the fact that they reply email enquiries (info@isabellamassagehouse.com) very promptly.

Cheap and good seafood in Batam

Golden Prawn Seafood Restaurant and Harbour Bay Seafood Restaurant are the names that most people mention when you ask them to recommend the best seafood restaurant in Batam.

After massage, we had a seafood feast at Harbour Bay, a stretch of seafood restaurants by the waterfront promenade.

I got a little greedy and over-ordered. Between the three of us, we had mantis prawns, salted egg yolk crabs, black pepper crabs, hotplate tofu, deep-fried spring chicken, chilli stir-fried mussels, and sambal kangkong. Cheap and good seafood. What more can we ask for?

Batam Beach Resort & Water Sports

And of course, you can choose a nice beach resort if you are staying overnight. Water sports facilities can mainly be found on resorts throughout Batam.

What’s there not to like about Batam? It is the ideal place for a short weekend getaway from Singapore.