The only thing better than a public holiday is a public holiday that lands on a Monday or Friday, extending a two-day weekend to a rare three-day one. This additional day makes it far more feasible to book a getaway from Singapore to regional destination a little bit further. If you’re looking for inspiration for upcoming long weekends, set your sights on these underrated spots, including cultural getaways and beach destinations near Singapore that are perfect for weekend trips.
#1 Gili Islands, Indonesia: For romance with a splash of adventure
A trio of islands off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands are a serene escape from the bustle of more popular neighbouring islands like Bali. With no vehicles to disturb the tranquillity, these three islands offer an idyllic setting for weekend getaways from Singapore.
Gili Air, the smallest of the three Gili Islands, offers a laid-back atmosphere and clear waters teeming with marine life like sea turtles and reef sharks – perfect for a bit of snorkelling. Gili Meno, though slightly larger, is even quieter, making it perfect for couples who want to retreat to solitude amidst stunning natural surrounds or simply bask in the sun on deserted beaches.
If you’re after a little more excitement, the largest and liveliest of the islands is Gili Trawangang. Here you can spend your days diving, surfing and paddleboarding. Come nightfall, beachfront bars and restaurants come to life with live DJs and musical performances. With three distinct experiences awaiting you, the Gili Islands are a prime pick for a beach destination near Singapore.
#2 Khao Yai, Thailand: For pristine nature and vineyard jaunts
Located two hours from Bangkok, the jungle-swathed region of Khao Yai often escapes the tourist radar. Beyond its breathtaking natural splendour, the region is also the birthplace of Thailand’s burgeoning wine industry and the location of the country’s first vineyard. Here you can explore sprawling vineyards and boutique wineries and sample unique vintages while taking in the region’s lush scenery.
Beyond wines, the rolling hills, verdant valleys and hidden waterfalls of Khao Yai National Park provide a picturesque backdrop for hikers of all skill levels and allows for a little variation in a short weekend trip.
#3 Hue, Vietnam: For a deep-dive into Vietnam’s cultural heart
Easily reachable by domestic flights from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hue is another excellent destination for a getaway from Singapore. In several periods of history, most recently in 1802 to 1945, Hue stood as Vietnam’s capital. As such, it offers plenty of opportunities for historical sightseeing that can fit into a three-day itinerary.
The Old Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the city’s most famed historical site and is perfect for a few hours of exploration. There’s also no shortage of historical temples and museums that dot the city. Another highlight of the city is a leisurely sunset cruise down the Perfume River. Drifting along its tranquil waters, you’ll watch the sunset paint the city’s lowrise sprawl in hues of gold and orange.
#4 Galle, Sri Lanka: For a mix of coastal calm and vibrant city life
While a little further away than previous entries, and perhaps worthy of an additional day, Sri Lanka can also be considered a viable beach destination near Singapore. Galle, on Sri Lanka’s southern tip, is an enchanting coastal town that’s steeped in colonial history. The storied city boasts a stunning blend of architectural styles owing to its Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial ties. The most famous historical landmark here is the Galle Fort, A Dutch fortification built in the 16th century.
Galle is more than just a testament to its past. The city is vibrant and lively, as you’ll discover while meandering through bustling markets in search of invigoratingly spicy street food. And when you’re ready to unwind, pristine beaches beckon, offering the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls.
Experience a worry-free getaway near Singapore with Pacific Prime CXA’s travel insurance policies
Long weekends are precious so it’s all the more important to ensure you’re covered for missed connections, cancelled flights, lost luggage and accidents. To prevent any of these mishaps sullying your well-deserved break, it’s always wise to travel while covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Pacific Prime CXA offers a variety of travel and short-term health insurance plans that are perfect for weekend getaways from Singapore. These include worldwide coverage for flight cancellation and delays, possible coverage for pre-existing conditions, watersport coverage and medical benefits. For a full list of available benefits, visit the website here.
Written in collaboration with Pacific Prime CXA.
