Work and sleep, on repeat. Today, many of us face the stress of the fast-paced lifestyle that we have to inevitably get accustomed to. The hustle and bustle of city life may take up the bulk of our time, but we all know that although this lifestyle is needed to make ends meet, this isn’t the ideal way to spend our time.

Sometimes, all we need is a short getaway to get a breather from the strenuous amount of stress we have to leave us feeling pumped up, refreshed and more energetic than before.

Every second is important—and that is why we have compiled a list of beach destinations you can get to from Singapore within 3 hours, perfect for a short weekend retreat from the taxing and frenetic way of life.

Photo Credit: eatosphere

#1 SUGI ISLAND

WHERE IT IS: Situated just 50km away from the Lion City, Sugi Island is part of the Riau islands in Indonesia and remains as one of the hotspots for a short beach vacation today.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Just a 50-minute ferry ride from Singapore to Batam, followed by a 90-minute boat ride from Batam will bring you to Sugi Islands. If you have extra time on your hands, Telunas Beach Resort is just a stone’s throw away!

Photo Credit: esendy

#2 NONGSA

WHERE IT IS: Nongsa is part of the Riau Islands in Indonesia and it is home to a myriad of luxurious beachfront villas.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Believe it or not, Nongsa Beach Resort is only 35-minutes away by ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, making it an ideal destination be it for a weekend escape or an extended vacation.

Photo Credit: ngetrip_karimunjawa

#3 KARIMUN ISLANDS

WHERE IT IS: Just like Sugi Island and Nongsa, Karimun Island is part of the Riau Archipelago in Indonesia and it is situated just 37km southwest from Singapore. It lies between Singapore and Batam.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: A 90-minute ferry ride from Harbourfront terminal will bring you to Karimun Islands. With 4 ferry crossings daily on weekdays and 6 ferry crossings daily on weekends, there is no reason for you to miss out on an opportunity like this!

Photo Credit: discoverunseen

#4 PULAU TIGA

WHERE IT IS: This secret island is dubbed as the Maldives of Malaysia and it is located just off the western coast of Sabah, Malaysia.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Take a 2h 30minute flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu before a 30-minute boat ride to Tiga Islands. Fans of diving and snorkelling will be pleased to hear that Tiga Islands had plenty of fringing coral reefs with beautiful colours and sea creatures.

Photo Credit: martin.puhm

#5 MANUKAN ISLAND

WHERE IT IS: Manukan Island is also part of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia and it is Malaysia’s first Marine Park.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: A 2.5-hour flight from Singapore is needed to get to Kota Kinabalu and just a short 10-minute car ride will get you to Manukan Island. Snorkel in the ocean and you’ll be amazed by the fishes that will surround you—with plenty of resorts around this island, Manukan is also a popular destination for a short day trip!

Photo Credit: joe_bighead

#6 KO SAMUI

WHERE IT IS: It is Thailand’s second largest island and it is particularly renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and lush greenery surrounding it.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: There are direct flights from Singapore to Ko Samui that take just 1 hour and 50 minutes. With resorts and beachside villas ranging from budget to luxury, Ko Samui is perfect for anyone and everyone seeking a retreat from city life.

Photo Credit: wissaww

#7 KO PHA NGAN

WHERE IT IS: Ko Pha Ngan is situated just north of Ko Samui—It is the secret of Thailand as it is home to unrivalled beaches with white sands and clear water under cobalt-blue skies.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Ko Pha Ngan does not have an airport, and it is less commercialised as compared to Ko Samui. Thus, getting there will likely require ferries from mainland Thailand and Koh Samui.

Batam is a wonderful weekend getaway idea from Singapore. It is only a 55-minute ferry ride away and there are lots to explore and experience in that Indonesian island.

Batam is actually home to a number of resorts so beautiful that they will take your breath away. Here are 7 Resorts in Batam to stay at for a relaxing weekend getaway, where you can destress and unwind from a hectic work week.   

Photo Credit: Batam View

#1 BATAM VIEW BEACH RESORT

Batam View Beach Resort remains as one of the top accommodations along the Nongsa stretch that offers travellers the perfect balance between affordability and quality.

Relax in one of their popular villa rooms that provides a panoramic view of the glistening sea from the balcony alongside the soothing sounds of the crashing waves. Rejuvenate your weary soul with their in-house spa and sauna services that will guarantee to take some stress off those stiff shoulders.

Photo Credit: Tropical Island Getaways

For those seeking an adventure, this resort offers nearly every water sport you can think of, including wakeboarding and snorkeling. For golf enthusiasts, you can head down to one of the nearby golf courses, the nearest being Palm Springs, for some good quality action.

Batam View Beach Resort 
Jalan Hang Lekir Nongsa, Sambau, Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 761 746

Photo Credit: Desindo Batam

#2 HARRIS RESORT WATERFRONT BATAM

As a one-stop resort destination, the exuberant and youthful character of Harris Resort Waterfront Batam is reflected by its service staff decked in their orange brand colour and the myriad of colours on the hotel’s exterior.

The standard room may come across as a little underwhelming, but its themed Japanese room with its tatami designs and lantern lighting fixture makes for a lovely feel and experience. Satellite television and in-house movies come as standard while the more premium rooms come with a private balcony and even a kitchenette.

As with other resorts, there are a wealth of outdoor activities that includes cable-skiing, paintball and the flying fox. Their pride and joy would have to be their giant free-form swimming pool and jacuzzi, which is in fact the largest on the island.

HARRIS Resort Waterfront Batam
Jl.KH.Ahmad Dahlan, Tj. Riau, Sekupang, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29425, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 381 888

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor

#3 KTM RESORT BATAM

KTM Resort Batam boasts villas that cater to both couples and family holiday-goers with its rustic decor and an uninterrupted view of the sea that would leave you in a trance.

Your journey to revert to your original, energetic form starts with the Javanese spa treatment to rebalance your bodies and minds. Following which, you can indulge yourself in a BBQ session to satisfy your deepest and most sinful cravings.

Photo Credit: Agoda

The resort also offers the best of both worlds. Those who love the tranquillity and calmness of the sea can try a hand at reeling in one of their own catch of the day at the fishing deck. On the contrary, millennials who prefer something a tad more heart racing can opt for activities such as paintball or watersports.

KTM Resort Batam 
JL. Kolonel Soegiono Tanjung Pinggir, Tj. Pinggir, Sekupang, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29432, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 323 700

Photo Credit: Montigo Resorts

#4 MONTIGO RESORTS, NONGSA

The contemporary and minimalistic facade of Montigo Resorts invokes a quintessentially Greek vibe that is evidently popular among Singaporeans. The architectural pleasing white buildings beautifully contrast with the azure blue Nongsa waters amidst the surrounding beach landscapes.

The biggest pull factor for most people looking at Montigo Resorts as a dream home away from home would have to be the Mediterranean-inspired decor. The perfect blend of nature and luxury living is incorporated into each and every villa with the use of natural materials and the unmistakable shocker for most: a private pool with stunning views of the sea.

Photo Credit: Montigo Resorts

Take a leisurely sunset cruise or perhaps a romantic vintage car tour of the nearby heritage village to soak in what Batam has to offer.

For the visiting lovebirds, you would be glad to know that out of the range of dining options available to guests, you can do private dining by the beach with romantic candle lights.

Montigo Resorts, Nongsa
Jalan Hang Lekir Nongsa, Sambau, Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 776 8888

Photo Credit: Top Indonesia Holidays

#5 TELUNAS BEACH RESORT

Find respite and deep relaxation at Telunas Beach Resort’ homely villas on stilts—reminiscent of the kampong villages in old Singapore. The private escape promises a distraction-free, slower pace of life as you sip on one of their handcrafted drinks while relaxing on a hammock.

The sea villas are a humongous 90m² and are filled with all the amenities you would need to satisfy all the needs of the modern day traveller. You might gasp at the fact that there is no air-conditioning in the rooms, but you would be pleasantly surprised by the natural cooling from the sea below.

Photo Credit: Expat Living

Although there are limited activities here as compared to other resorts, they still spot a free-form swimming pool as well as beach and water activities upon request.

As their slogan suggests, “there is no better time to start making memories”, and we are inclined to believe that this is the resort to embark on that cause for you and your loved ones.

Telunas Beach Resort
Pulau Sugi, Desa Mentangun, Kecamatan Moro, Sugie, Karimun, Kabupaten Karimun, Kepulauan Riau 29462, Indonesia
Tel: +62 811 771 0951

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor

#6 TEMPAT SENANG SPA RESORT & RESTAURANT

Like a scene from the Prince of Persia or Arabian Nights, the interior decor of the rooms at Tempat Senang Spa Resort screams opulence and luxury at every corner.

The moment you lay eyes on the room when you open the door, the beautifully patterned rug, satin white bedframe curtains, and the royal maroonish red sheets with golden threads combine to give a memorable visual feast.

Photo Credit: Bed And Breakfast

Beyond the breathtaking room that would ensure hours of sweet dreams, the Arabian-inspired theme continues to their outdoor pools, which provide a fully immersive experience for guests. Other activities available for guests would be the spa services that use the perfect blend of essential oils to evoke your senses.

Tempat Senang Spa Resort & Restaurant 
KK Indah Puri Kav No.15, Patam Lestari, Sekupang, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29400, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 325 616

Photo Credit: Hotel Resort Plus

#7 TURI BEACH RESORT

Set on 7.7 hectares of beautiful greenery of the Nongsa tropical forestry, the Turi beach Resort features a modern yet minimalistic accommodation that gives guests the perfect sea view from dawn till dusk.

The contemporary wooden timbre design cottages come with a private balcony; the premium suites come with a private bathroom that includes a lavish jacuzzi for a spa-inspired bathing experience.

Photo Credit: Late Stays

The adjacent blue sea makes for the perfect opportunity for you to have a hand at activities such as parasailing, flyboarding, or canoeing—some of which are not offered elsewhere. If you prefer dry land activities, an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) experience will ensure hours of muddy fun as you zoom across bumps and puddles.

Turi Beach Resort
Jl. Hang Lekiu, Sambau, Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia
Tel: +62 778 761 080

About the writer: A member of the team at ladyironchef, Claire’s mission is to lead a life without regrets – to explore the world and its treasures boldly. When she isn’t pursuing her interests in writing, academia and music, Claire spends her free time with family and her pets. She also hopes to run her own animal shelter in the future.

Are you one who prefer travelling off the beaten track, or you simply want to avoid the touristy areas altogether? We feel you.

Sometimes, we just don’t want to be in a(nother) city when we take a holiday. Think pristine waters, untouched beaches, lush greenery, and the list goes on. In Malaysia, there are actually many islands and underrated attractions that are like that – all waiting to be discovered, as long as you are willing to take the trip.

From Cameron Highlands, Pangkor Laut Island Resort to The Perhentian Islands, here are 8 Most Underrated Getaways in Malaysia every traveller should add to his/her bucket list.

Source: Wikipedia

#1 CAMERON HIGHLANDS

Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands is a scenic paradise. Its high altitude has blessed the district with a cool climate, mostly under 20 degree Celsius – hence providing Malaysians and other travellers a quick escapade from Southeast Asia’s unbearable heat.

Spanning across 712 square kilometers, the tranquil area is characterized by extensive tea plantations and lush greenery. The Strawberry Farm has to be in your itinerary too.

Source: Rizwan

#2 CHINI LAKE

Malaysia’s second largest natural freshwater lake, Chini Lake, comprises 13 unique water bodies and these waters are home to a few hundred species of flora and fauna. The lake is located near Pahang River and is best visited during August and September when thousands of pink and white water lilies emerge.

Source: Go Asia Plus

#3 GAYA ISLAND

Perched high above the grounds and nestled in lush tropical forests, Gaya Island Resort is the ultimate retreat for all tired souls and adventure seekers alike. Partake in thrilling water sports or simply immerse yourselves in nature. The stunning island is only a 10-minute boat ride away from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Source: Jones Around The World

#4 KAPAS ISLAND

Disconnect to connect; that’s the essence of a holiday. Consider Kapas Island aka Pulau Kapas, a tiny island famous for their gorgeous white beaches and absence of ATMs. Measuring only two kilometers long and one kilometer wide, choice of accommodation is scarce but it is a great place to snorkel, sunbathe and dive.

Source: Kuching

#5 KUCHING

Kuching is a far cry from its sister cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, but certainly does not pale in comparison. The capital of Malaysian state of Sarawak on Borneo boasts an eclectic mix of colonial landmarks and modern buildings. Do drop by the century-old Sarawak Museum and Chinese History Museum.

Source: Luxurious Magazines

#6 PANGKOR LAUT RESORT

Pangkor Laut Island can be found three kilometers along Malaysia’s West Coast. Conde Nast Traveller has coined the private island resort as ‘Number One in The World. Join an island excursion, indulge in a spa retreat or dine at the world-famous Emerald Bay.

Source: Jollence Lee Photo

#7 PORING HOT SPRING

Situated 25 miles away from UNESCO World Heritage listed Kinabalu Park’s headquarters is Poring Hot Springs, a natural hot spring attraction open daily from 7am to 6pm. Check out the Poring Canopy Walkway and Rafflesia Flower Site while you are at it. Do also remember to bring along slippers, towel and swimwear etc.

Source: Kilroy

#8 THE PERHENTIAN ISLANDS

The Perhentian Islands is a group of atolls in West Malaysia’s northeastern coast. Glistening turquoise waters, spellbindingly beautiful sunsets and whatnot; these should be enough to tempt. Most of these islets remain largely untouched and holidaymakers can expect an unrivalled pristine experience. Unwind in serenity or join the other scuba divers.

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.

From its sunny shores and beautiful beaches to stunning ocean-view resorts and excellent restaurants, it is understandable why Bali is one of the most popular destinations in the region, and people keep returning to this island that is getting better and better with new swanky hotels and cool and stylish restaurants.

If you are planning to head to Bali in the near future, we have sussed out four fabulous hotels and resorts for a romantic retreat in Bali.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay

The luxurious and spacious oceanfront villas at Four Seasons in Jimbaran Bay is the destination if you are looking for a little privacy, and to escape away from the world.

Tucked at the end of Jimbaran Bay, this is one of Bali’s most idyllic and exclusive hideaway resorts. Each villa comes with a private plunge pool and has an amazing view of the ocean. It is the kind of place that leaves you feeling fulfilled even without doing anything. But if you are the sort who cannot bum around for long, there are plenty of daily activities lined up by the resort. From joining morning yoga classes to partaking in a Balinese-style cooking class organised by the hotel’s chefs, and enjoying a selection of spa treatments in an open-air bale at the edge of the ocean – you need not worry about being bored at Four Seasons Resort Bali.

Not to mention that the coolest beachfront restaurant in Jimbaran can be found at Sundara, which combines exquisite cuisine with a relaxed beach-club vibe. It offers an unobstructed view of the sunset while enjoying their signature passionfruit mojito.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
Kuta Selatan
Jimbaran Bali, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 701010

Le Meridien Bali Jimbaran Hotel

Jimbaran Bay is synonymous with the most delicious and freshest seafood, and if you are planning to head there for a seafood feast, stay at Le Meridien Bali Hotel, which is located right across the stretch of popular seafood restaurants by the beach.

It is a contemporary and artsy hotel that encourages guests to be creative and discover new inspirations. Some of the features of the six-month old hotel include the saltwater lagoon pool, sunset cocktail at Smoqee Lounge and Sky Bar, Pan-Asian cuisine with a Balinese twist at Bamboo Chic, and a stunning rooftop pavilion which is a great venue for special events like birthday parties and wedding solemnisations.

Le Meridien Hotel is also notably kids-friendly. Parents can also drop their kids off at J Kids Club, where the well-trained and friendly staff will supervise and play with the kids while the adults get some alone time with each other.  Another good thing about staying at the hotel is its proximity to the airport. On a good traffic day, it takes only 10 minutes from the hotel to the airport.

Le Meridien Bali Jimbaran
Jalan Bukit Permai
Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 8466888

http://lemeridienbalijimbaran.com/

The Stones Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott

The Stones Hotel in Legian is the first Autograph Collection hotel in Asia to be managed by Marriott. It sits on the strip of Legian, which is a stone’s throw away from Kuta, and also a short drive to Seminyak.

In the day, The Stones is a beach resort where you can hang out and frolic under the sun with some ice cold beer. It is so easy to just spend a day at the beautiful blue-tiled lagoon pool, or laze by the hammocks and be lost in your favorite book. At night, the hotel transforms into a sexy party scene, with dim and romantic lighting and chic lounge music.

The Stones Hotel combines a super convenient location, modern design with a sexy vibe, and good F&B establishments to provide a complete experience. It is the perfect place for travellers to retreat after surfing at the beach, or after a night of partying.

The Stones Hotel, Autograph Collection
Jalan Raya Pantai Kuta
Banjar Legian Kelod, Indonesia
Tel: + 62 361 300 5888

W Retreat & Spa Bali

W Hotel is the IT place to stay in Bali. It has that “X-factor” that cannot be replicated and this is why everyone — from well-heeled travellers, to love-struck couples seeking a romantic spa retreat, and families on their annual vacation — goes to W Hotel when they are in Seminyak.

The restaurants and bars in the property are effortlessly chic and attribute to the whole W experience. Party-goers head to Woo Bar, undisputedly one of the hippest bars in Bali. Starfish Bloo – the hotel’s signature restaurant and seaside beach club – serves Pan-Asian cuisine in a classy and stylish setting. Fire is a casual grill restaurant that boasts a stunning interior, and contrary to its name, it makes you feel cool just by dining there. And of course, it is a must to go for a spa session at W’s iconic and world-famous AWAY spa.

The irresistible charm and the impeccable service of W Retreat & Spa Bali make it all too difficult to get out of the resort. Once you are there, you will never want to leave.

W Retreat & Spa Bali
Jalan Petitenget
Kerobokan, Seminyak
Denpasar Bali, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 4738106

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.