Need a holiday but don’t have a lot of time to spare? Not to worry. Singapore may be small, but what it lacks in holiday destination options within the country, it makes up for with strong currency and great location. So, in terms of short holidays, where should people living in the Lion City go? There are many options, but here are seven of our favourite long weekend trips from Singapore. When you’re ready to start your flight search, Cheapflights.com.sg is here to help.
Malacca
Many of the travellers who flock to this small Malaysia town are residents of Singapore. Singaporeans fondness for its Peranakan flavour run deep, for more reasons than its easy-to-reach location. Malacca is beloved for its unique heritage, influenced by a mix of Malay, Portuguese, Dutch and British cultures, though it was actually founded by a Singaporean — Parameswara, the last Raja of Singapura — after the Majapahit invasion in 1377.
Riau Islands, Indonesia
Composed of thousands of islands, Indonesia‘s Riau island group is not just a popular getaway for locals, but for Singaporeans as well. Two of its bigger islands, Batam and Bintan, are located near the tip of Singapore, making it easier for residents of the Lion City to reach their ports. Batam, famous for its world-class golf course and Waterfront City, can be easily reached via a ferry from Harbourfront Terminal, while Bintan, known for its beaches and hiking trails, is accessible from the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
Tioman, Malaysia
For residents of Singapore who wish to spend their long weekends exploring majestic marine life, there is Tioman. Many tour agencies operate from Singapore, taking care of your the dive trip planning and needs. But if you prefer to plan everything yourself, getting to this beautiful beach destination is easy. The most common affordable alternative is to take a bus from Johor or Singapore to Mersing and, from there, you can take a ferry to the island. The entire trip takes about five hours. The faster alternative? Take a 35-minute flight from the Changi Budget Terminal direct to Pulau Tioman Airport.
Cebu, Philippines
There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Cebu — from attending festivals to sampling delicious Cebuano cuisine. You can’t leave the city without trying lechon (roasted pig), hitting the bars and clubs, visiting historical sites or lounging by the beach with an ice cold San Miguel beer in hand. Love scuba diving? Don’t forget to hit Mactan, an island in Cebu famous for its dive spots, such as Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary, The Kontiki Reef and Tambuli Reef.
Boracay
For Singaporeans who want to spend their long weekends lounging by the beach, Boracay is perfect. While it takes a little longer to reach this destination than others (approximately five hours via Kalibo Airport), its crystal clear water and powder white sand make the travel time more than worth it. To make the most of your long weekend in Boracay, stay in accommodations located in either Station 1, 2 or 3, which is home to the famous White Beach, as well as numerous bars and restaurants. Want a quiet option? Stay on Puka Beach or Baling Hai Beach. They may not be as spectacular as White Beach, but both give the feeling of having the island all to yourself.
Sarawak, Borneo
Located in Borneo, Sarawak is Malaysia’s largest state, offering tons to do and see. Explore the numerous national parks, several nature reserves and Malaysia’s longest river, the Rejang River. Apart from nature and wildlife, travellers shouldn’t miss trying the famous Sarawak laksa. Looking to travel in July? Check out the annual three-day Rainforest Music Festival in the state’s capital, Kuching.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Looking for something a little more familiar? Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is one of the best long weekend trips from Singapore. The city is always bustling with activity and it’s reachable via a four-hour drive or bus ride. In addition to the usual sites like the Batu Caves, the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower, one of our favourite things to do in KL is to hit up its famous food district, Kampung Baru, where you can find some of the best authentic Nasi Lemak and Mee Goreng.
Ready to plan your trip? Search for flights at Cheapflights.com.sg and let us know where you’re travelling in the comments.
