Like Christmas and New Year’s, the Chinese New Year holiday is a popular time to travel. If you want to get in on the best flight and hotel deals, it’s time to start planning – you’ll thank us when prices start skyrocketing in January! Here’s our round-up of great destinations to head to, near and far.
1 hour or less
Bintan, Indonesia
Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Bintan is a great choice if you don’t want to travel too far (or take a flight). The island boasts some lovely beaches and has many resorts on offer across a range of prices.
Where to Stay: The Sanchaya
Vacation in style at this luxurious beachfront resort by the Mr & Mrs Smith’s collection, which is only 15 minutes away from the ferry terminal. Each spacious suite and villa offer top-notch amenities such as walk-in closets and private verandahs with comfy sun loungers. Fall asleep in your plush super-king-sized bed and wake up to unblocked sea views.
What to do:
- Spend the day lounging by the infinity pool or head to spa for a relaxing massage.
- Enjoy the good weather with snorkelling, scuba diving, outdoor yoga classes, croquet and even archery lessons.
- For something a little more special, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the bay with an open-cockpit seaplane ride.
Don’t miss: From 13 to 25 February, get the chance to enjoy a special festive Chinese meal. Also, take part in a special yee shang (Chinese New Year delicacy with shredded vegetables and raw fish) ceremony on 16 February.
2 to 4 hours
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The town of Siem Reap is situated in the northwest of the country and is home to the majestic Angkor temples. There are local markets to explore and loads of restaurants and bars for cheap eats and drinks.
Where to stay: Phum Baitang
Nestled amongst paddy fields and gardens, spend the night in an elegant private stilted villa inspired by traditional Khmer architecture. Choose to stay in a terrace villa or a pool villa with your own private plunge pool to enjoy. The resort is located 15 minutes away from Siem Reap international Airport.
What to do:
- Head out early to catch the sunrise at the temples of Angkor.
- Drop the brood at the resort’s kids’ club and go for an indulging session at the spa.
- Wind down for the day with a visit to the cigar and cocktail bar.
Don’t miss: Book 60 days in advance and enjoy 10% off!
Luang Prabang, Laos
A UNESCO Heritage site, the ancient town of Luang Prabang is located in Northern Laos. Known for its natural beauty, it’s also a spot that’s rich in culture and heritage, with a mellow Mekong vibe.
Where to stay: Azerai
This newly opened luxury property by Adrian Zecha (founder of Aman) is the perfect nature and spiritual retreat. Each of its 53 rooms is decked out in soothing neutral palettes, warm woods and clean lines.
What to do:
- Pamper yourself with full body and foot massages at the spa, or lounge by the stunning pool.
- Explore the town on foot or by bike, and even visit a silk farm to learn how silk is dyed and woven.
- Witness monks performing spiritual alms-giving rituals.
- Visit the beautiful waterfalls nearby and take a boat ride down the gorgeous Mekong River.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Known for its vibrant nightlife as much as for its great beaches, there is plenty to explore on Koh Samui, from shopping to hiking.
Where to stay: Vana Belle Koh Samui
This luxurious resort is tucked away in an exclusive cove on Chaweng Noi beach. Indulge in a night in an Ocean View Pool Suite or Tropical Pool Villa and enjoy personalised butler service.
What to do:
- After indulging in wellness treatments at the spa, explore nearby temples such as Laem Sor Pagoda and Wat Khunaram.
- Go island-hopping on a traditional long-tail boat, exploring places such as Koh Matsum and Five Islands.
- If you enjoy hiking, there are many coconut plantations and lush jungles to explore.
Don’t miss: Perfect for couples, opt for the resort’s Loving Anniversary Package and you’ll get extras like a romantic dinner by the beach, a Thai massage and an airport transfer. Valid until 31 December 2018.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Instead of typical itinerary spots like Ho Chi Minh City or Halong Bay, why not visit the Central Vietnamese city of Da Nang? Highlights include local street food and exploring the famous Marble Mountains.
Where to stay: Furama Villas Da Nang
Overlooking Da Nang beach, this lovely resort blends traditional Vietnamese style with French colonial architecture. The property houses various rooms and suites, not to mention four-bedroom pool villas that are perfect for larger groups.
What to do:
- Drop the little ones off at the Kids’ Club to keep them busy with fun activities.
- Challenge fellow guests to a game of volleyball and badminton or slow things down with a tai chi session.
- Try your hand at whipping up Vietnamese cuisine at the resort’s cooking class
- Enjoy incredible views of the city with a helicopter ride.
Don’t miss: Enjoy a Stay Pay deal (stay three nights, pay two) in a two-bedroom villa with daily breakfast and airport transfer. Valid until 27 March 2018.
Chengdu, China
Known for its pandas and spicy Sichuan cuisine, the provincial capital of Chengdu also offers abundant temples and great street shopping.
Where to stay: The Temple House
Located in the heart of the city, this luxury hotel boasts comfortable rooms and suites with sleek contemporary design with traditional influences. Each one houses a posh king-sized bed with down bedding as well as a stylish bathroom with a walk-in rain shower.
What to do:
- Explore the bustling city and sample some local cuisine along the way (be wary of the chilli count, which can be ferocious!).
- Wind down for the day with a visit to the hotel’s in-house MI XUN Teahouse and sample some local Sichuan teas.
- Indulge in a mani-pedi or wellness treatments with a local twist such as tea-infused wraps at the MI XUN Spa, or work off some calories at the indoor pool and gym.
Phuket, Thailand
Looking for an easy tropical beach getaway with loads of options? Phuket is the place! Beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and tasty cuisine make for an enjoyable vacation for all.
Where to stay: The Slate
Situated on the beautiful Nai Yang beach in Phuket, escape from the hustle and bustle of city life at this gorgeous all-suite resort. It also houses villas with spacious terraces and private pools. Opt for a stay in a villa and enjoy 24-hour butler service, in-villa breakfasts and more.
What to do:
- Kids will enjoy dedicated kids’ club Tin Box Kids, which offers fun activities such as junior cooking classes.
- There is a family pool and tons of family-friendly watersports including kayaking and paddle boarding.
- Drop by the Pulley Bar, an adults-only swim-up bar and enjoy great music and a cocktail.
- For some local culture, explore nearby temples or visit the Naka weekend market.
5 to 8 hours
Maldives
Who wouldn’t love a trip to paradise? The tropical island nation of the Maldives is home to beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Where to stay: Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Located in the South Western Atoll of Dhaalu, this exclusive luxury resort offer a variety of studios, suites and pavilions, many of which have private pools. Indulge in alfresco rain showers while the kids go crazy with the popcorn maker and complimentary tubs of ice cream.
What to do:
- Enjoy a day out in the waters with watersports such as parasailing, waterskiing, kayaking and windsurfing.
- Take part in a cooking class or even a DJ workshop.
- Prefer something more active? Why not play some beach volleyball or try your hand at kickboxing?
- Parents will be glad to know that there is the exclusive Scott Dunn Explorers kids’ club for children aged 12 months to 12 years.
Shanghai, China
As the largest city in China, Shanghai may be cosmopolitan and hectic, yet it retains plenty of pockets of rich cultural and architectural heritage. Feast your eyes on its towering skyscrapers, take in the sights at the waterfront, then duck into the back alleys to explore.
Where to stay: Amanyangyun
Surrounded by a lush camphor forest and a tranquil lake, this newly opened resort houses antique villas and suites that celebrate Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Located in the small town of Maqiao on the outskirts of Shanghai, it’s a pleasing escape from the concrete jungle.
What to do:
- Cross the river to Pudong to see the “futuristic” side of Shanghai, with its astonishing lineup of high-rise buildings.
- Enjoy the serenity of the Maqiao countryside and go fishing, fruit-picking or learn how to plant crops.
- Try your hand at Chinese calligraphy and painting, and don’t miss traditional treatments at the spa house.
lightfoottravel.com/amanyangyun
Sydney, Australia
Australia’s largest city and home to some world-famous landmarks, Sydney offers natural beauty from beaches to mountains, and some remarkable gourmet experiences
Where to stay: Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
Blending French elegance and local culture, this luxury hotel is located in the lively and picturesque Darling Harbour precinct. Each guestroom and suite has floor-to-ceiling windows that look out to the harbour, city and suburbs beyond.
What to do:
- Enjoy the views from the outdoor infinity pool that overlooks the harbour.
- If you love your drinks, stop by the Champagne Bar which offers 20 different types of bubbles.
- Head out to the CBD and pay a visit to the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The Chinese Gardens and Sydney Aquarium are also a short walk away.
- Foodies won’t want to miss the Sydney Fish Markets or the newly opened Tramsheds.
sofitelsydneydarlingharbour.com.au
Perth, Australia
Said to be the sunniest capital in the country, Perth is the perfect vacation spot for those who love the outdoors. Explore its many beaches and take a stroll through one of its beautiful parks.
Where to stay: Pan Pacific Perth
This five-star property is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s shopping, dining and entertainment precincts. Choose to stay in one of the spacious rooms or treat yourself to a night in the River Suite that boasts stunning views of Swan River and Kings Park.
What to do:
- Head out to explore the surrounding CBD and pop in one of the many award-winning restaurants for a bite.
- Drop by The Aquarium of Western Australia or spend the day at a theme park.
- Enjoy a day trip to nearby Rottnest Island, home to the world-famous quokka, or head south to Margaret River and indulge in fine wine, cheese and chocolate.
Jaipur, India
Located in Rajasthan, historic Jaipur is the largest city in the state. Popular among tourists – and for good reason! – it boasts ancient landmarks and beautiful architecture.
Where to stay: Alila Fort Bishangarh
Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, this 230-year-old fortress exudes rural charm. All suites offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and countryside dotted with villages and temples. It’s a three-hour drive from New Delhi and an hour outside of Jaipur.
What to do:
- The hotel offers guests a selection of immersive experiences and activities, including enjoying a trek or bike ride through the Aravalli Hills and take in the natural beauty of the Rajastani landscape.
- Go on a camel ride through the Bishangarh village and witness rural village life.
- Visit the nearby Gavya Amul Dairy and find out more about the journey of milk from farm to fridge.
alilahotels.com/fortbishangarh
Looking for something a little different? How about a villa vacay or tips on where to go skiing?
