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.

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

There are many reasons why so many people fall in love with Phuket – white sand with turquoise waters and blue sunny skies; luxurious beach villas that will make you feel like royalty; cheap and delicious Thai street food; and wonder spa treatments for your tense shoulders after your flight.

Granted, Phuket has become very touristy in recent years as travellers escape there for a getaway, but there are still many beautiful beaches that are waiting to be explored. We spent a weekend in Kata Beach and had a memorable experience.

We preferred Kata Beach as it is a quieter area as compared to the extremely popular (and commercialised) Patong Beach. Our home for the weekend was a 1 bedroom grand seaview suite at The Aspasia Hotel Phuket (1/ 3 Laem Sai Road, Kata, Phuket, Thailand).

What I like most about the hotel is its location – a short 5 minutes walk to Kata Beach. Plus, it has a clean and spacious room with a terrific ocean view.

The first two days were spent hanging out by the pool, reading a book on the couch, and taking nice long strolls along Kata Beach.

There are also plenty of restaurants in the area. If you are planning a trip to Phuket Kata Beach, the following are just a few recommendations that you can try.

Our favourite place during this trip was Home’s Food Thai Food (87/2 Tayna Road Kata Beach, near Easy Rider Pub) a small eatery that serves cheap, honest and delicious Thai food. It was so good that we went back a few times.

Perched on the rocks overlooking Kata Noi Beach, Mom Tri’s Kitchen (12 Kata Noi Road, Kata No, Kata, Phuket Tel: +66 76 333 569) is an award-winning restaurant which food lovers must check out. For a spot to watch the sunset, go Re Ka Ta (3rd Street Cafe & Guest House 92/15 92/15 Khoktanod Road, Kata Beach Tel: +66 76 330 015), one of the most hottest beach clubs in Kata Beach, if not Phuket.

We also spent a day exploring Phuket Town, the largest town in Phuket. Most people go to Phuket for the beaches and hardly venture to Phuket Town. But our recent trip showed us a different side of the place. There, we discovered many nice cafes, eateries and boutiques.

Coffee lovers must check out Mac-chiato House & Cake Box (48 Thalang Road, Muang Phuket), a trendy cafe which serves a range of speciality coffee and desserts such as honey toast (B85), brownies (B55) and chocolate lava cake (B75).

You should also drop by Pirrera Cafe Bar (39/1 Dibuk Road, Phuket, Thailand Tel: +66 08 5782 4406). Housed in a beautiful old building, the cafe offers coffee, cakes and light snacks – a nice place to watch the World go by.

Another place that you should go is Kopitiam by Wilai (18 Thalang Road Tel: +66 83 606 9776), an old-school coffee shop that has affordable Thai food. On the menu, you can find local eats such as Cha Koay Teow (B70), Pad Thai (B70) and Tom Yum Koong (B100).

Getting to Phuket from Singapore is easy. Silkair, Jetstar, Tiger and AirAsia have direct flights (1 hour 46 minute) and the tickets are usually very affordable if you book in advance. Everyone needs a beach holiday, and if you have not been to Phuket, maybe it is time to book your tickets and pamper yourself with a weekend getaway.

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.

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

If you truly love someone, every day should be like Valentine’s Day.

It’s great to be in love, there are so many sweet things that you can do with your partner: surprise her with a candlelight dinner during a weekend; snuggle in bed on a cold rainy day; send silly messages to each other throughout the day; buy a flower for her even though there’s no special occasion.

Guys, you do not need a reason to be romantic. You should always do things to make her feel special; she is, after-all the most important person in your life. Everyone likes list posts, so here are some romantic ideas/things to do with your partner.

There are many things in this world which I do not understand, but there is one thing I am sure of – love always wins.

Short getaway

Budget airlines like Jetstar, Tiger, AiaAsia have completely redefined the travel experience. With prices of air-tickets falling faster than a soufflé, there’s really no excuse for not going on a holiday. Plan for a 3D2N getaway to nearby cities like Phuket, Bangkok, Bali and surprise him/her. It is the best Valentine’s Day Gift for your partner.

Staycation

‘Staycations’ have become very popular in recent years, and it is a good alternative if you want to avoid the hassle of planning for a holiday.

Resorts World Sentosa (8 Sentosa Gateway Resorts World Sentosa Tel: +65 6577 8888) has a 3D2N Tropical Special at $788 which includes two nights stay at Hotel Michael Deluxe Room, Hard Rock Hotel Deluxe Room or Festive Hotel Deluxe Family Room; and one day pass to Universal Studios Singapore for Two.

Hotel Fort Canning (11 Canning Walk Tel: +65 6559 6770) is the perfect setting for couples to escape from the busy world and go a romantic rendezvous over the weekend. They are currently offering a Valentine’s Day promotion for S$380++ per room per night. The package is also inclusive of breakfast for two at The Glass House and complimentary champagne, wine and juices plus canapés at the Lobby Lounge from 6-8pm.

Be it anniversary, birthday, Christmas, or Valentine’s day, going for staycation is a romantic idea for all occasions.

Take a cooking class together

AFC Studio (181 Orchard Road #07-02 Orchard Central Tel: + 65 6834 4829) is the place to go for good and relatively affordable cooking classes. They offer different cooking classes (two hour class is $45/pax) ranging from baking French cakes; to learning how to prepare authentic Indonesian dishes. I think it is a romantic idea to take cooking classes, and it is a great way for you and your partner to have fun and enjoy quality time together.

Cook candle light dinner

There’s nothing more romantic than preparing a candlelight dinner for your partner. It doesn’t have to be fanciful dishes, it just has to be prepared by you.

Go for a romantic Picnic

A romantic picnic is a wonderful way to spend a lazy day with your boyfriend/girlfriend, and best of all, it’s a romantic gesture which doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can pack sandwiches, and your partner’s favourite snacks.

And of course, you can always “cheat” by buying from gourmet shops. Head to Jones the Grocer (12 Dempsey Road Tel: +65 6476 1512) or Da Paolo Gastronomia (290 Orchard Road, #B1-20 The Paragon Tel: +65 6738 1462) to get some food, before heading to Botanic Gardens or Marina Barrage for a picnic.

For those of you who are planning to do a picnic at Botanic Gardens, you can get pizzas from Casa Verde (1 Cluny road Singapore Botanic Gardens Tel: +65 6467 7326); they have an ongoing 1-for-1 pizza promotion (Monday to Thursday, 11am – 9.30pm) for takeaway.

(To the guys reading this: I would suggest bringing along a bottle of champagne too – it’s perfect for a simple and romantic picnic.)

For more recommendations, please read my Guide to Valentine’s Day Dinner 2012

Do share with us what are some of the romantic things that you do with your boyfriend/girlfriend. Remember, it’s not about what you do, but who you do it with. Have fun with your partner!