Awesome Weekend Getaways from Singapore [Nature Edition]

Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh, the super chilled Mekong Delta feels like a world away. Here you'll find really charming homestays overlooking the delta (as well as nice resorts if you prefer!), with yummy home-cooked meals. There's more than enough to do here for a weekend like cycling, taking a sampan down the Mekong delta to the floating markets, and even pottery!

Getting there: Fly to Ho Chi Minh (2.5h) + drive to Mekong (1.5h)

Everyone thinks about zen temples when they think about Yogyakarta, but it's actually an adventure junkie's dream.

Here you can go on the world's craziest zipline, off-road at Indonesia's most active volcano or tubing in an underground river. Want something more chilled? There are also coffee farms, pottery villages, farm-to-table cooking where you catch your own catfish and oh yes, temples.

Getting there: Fly to Yogyakarta (2h)

If we told you that you would be able to hike 2 countries in a weekend, would you believe us?! This incredibly cool experience starts in Kuching and takes you across the border to Kalimantan Indonesia to enjoy the nature and small village surroundings along the way. You'll also get to spend some time with locals, sharing their traditions and meals. It's not a strenuous hike so it's perfect for all-level hikers.

Getting there: Fly to Kuching (1.5h)

If you're looking for something very chilled and relaxing, you can head to UNSECO Halong Bay on a luxe boat cruise! The scenery is great, but the main highlight of Halong Bay has to be their seriously nice boats, which are like floating luxury hotels. Most of the boats here are kitted out with beautiful balconies for sunset drinks, and bathtubs overlooking the karst landscapes.

Getting there: Fly to Hanoi (3.5h)

If you're looking for a mix of sightseeing and nature, head to Ninh Binh, a short drive from Hanoi. Ninh Binh is a bit like a mini Halong Bay but with far fewer people (and sampan boats instead of glam cruises!). Here you can take a sampan boat down its UNESCO heritage site, comprised of various waterways and surrounded by limestone karsts, visit an ancient 10th century capital and see Vietnam's mini Great Wall.

Getting there: Fly to Hanoi (3.5h) + drive to Ninh Binh (1.5h)

Another short drive from Ho Chi Minh, is Mui Ne, a beach resort town with fiery red sand dunes. Here you can do do ATV rides down white and red sand dunes. You can also go snorkelling and fishing at Vinh Hy Bay, a beautiful lagoon surrounded by mountains.

Getting there: Fly to Ho Chi Minh (2.5h) + drive to Mui Ne (3h)

A long weekend is probably the shortest amount of time you need for Komodo Islands (though if you have longer, we would recommend at least five days!). Here you can do a sightseeing boat trip to Komodo National Park to see pre-historic Komodo dragons, chill on Pink beaches and swim with Manta rays. It's the ultimate bucket list trip!

Getting there: Fly to Bali or Jakarta + Fly to Labuan Bajo (Total 5h)
[We hear that that direct flights should be operating by early 2024]

This isn't your usual trip to Bali. Though we've been to Bali many times, this hiking experience in Munduk is really special. Here in remote North Bali, you'll trek through ancient jungles with towering trees, chase spectacular waterfalls and kayak at stunning Tamblingan Lake. It feels like discovering a secret oasis that’s only known to the locals.

Getting there: Fly to Bali (2.5h)

Admittedly this might be a bit of a stretch for a long weekend, but it is SO worth it. Kinabatangan River is Asia's best kept secret for wildlife, and here you'll be able to see wild Orangutans and Elephants on a boat safari. As with any safari, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but Kinabatangan River is one of your best bets.

Getting there: Fly to Kota Kinabalu + Fly to Sandakan (Total 5h)

This is not a chilled getaway, but it's very doable over a long weekend. Take 2 days to scale Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. It's one of the most beautiful climbs we've been on, as it takes you through varied landscapes like lush rainforest to moonscape.

You'll need to plan this getaway in advance, as it requires some training and you'll also need to secure your permits ahead of time. Some tips here to help with your planning!

Getting there: Fly to Kota Kinabalu (2h)