If you're stumped on where to go for the long weekends in July and August, we bring you five of our favourite destinations close to Singapore for a quick family vacay
With two long weekends in mid-July and August, a family trip or two is great a way to spend the public holidays in Singapore. The Hari Raya holiday weekend is only days away, and if you’re frantically looking for a quick vacay, relax ’cause we’ve got you covered. From a city holiday in Kuala Lumpur with the kids to island destinations irrisistably close to Singapore such as Bintan, our round-up serves up five of our favourite the best ideas for last minute weekend getaways with the fam.
1. Serenity and smiles in Koh Samui
Why go?
Major Thai tourist destinations like Krabi and Phuket are lovely, but if a lush, serene island paradise is what you want, Koh Samui is your best bet – and it’s under two hours away by plane! Head here for breathtaking sea views, white sandy beaches and luxe island living. Need any more convincing? Here’s how to spend a swish long weekend in Koh Samui.
How to get there
Straight flights to Koh Samui are available from Silkair and Bangkok Airways. Alternatively, fly to Bangkok via budget airlines like Jetstar and AirAsia and take a domestic flight.
What to do
Get up close with marine life, exotic animals and colourful birds at Samui Aquarium and Tiger Show. The aquarium is host to marine life native to the Gulf of Thailand like leopard sharks and manta rays – perfect for those with little ability to dive or families with tiny tots. Gape at the display of strength and agility from the Bengal tigers and leopards at the zoo or enjoy the daily tiger, lion and bird shows. If you have an animal-loving fam, check out Elephant Nature Park. It may be a bit of a journey (as it’s nearer to Chiang Mai) but here’s your rare chance to feed, wash and care for these majestic creatures.
Must-see spots
Aside from endless lounging on the beach, spectacular snorkelling, diving and water sports, some must-see spots are the picturesque Namuang Waterfall and the 12 metre high Budda shrine. Don’t forget to check out Chaweng beach – it may be popular and sometimes crowded but its powder soft sand and clear water makes it a must visit.
Where to stay
The villas of Conrad Resort and Spa, Koh Samui, are perched on stilts and provide incredible, expansive ocean views thanks to the resort’s remote cliffside location. Feast out in style with a tasting at Conrad’s culinary jewel, Jahn, or tuck into Thai specialities at Zest. Take up one of the many boat excursions Conrad has to offer, including full-day trips to lush marine reserves or two-hour snorkelling outings to a nearby Madsum Island.
2. Get lost in the lush greenery of the Cameron Highlands
Why go?
Not a sun worshipper? Be one with nature at Cameron Highlands without the heat and humidity of beach holidays that frankly frizzes our hair and leaves us repeatedly reaching for sunblock. This lush, green paradise still retains an old-world English charm and is dotted with scenic fruit farms and tea plantations that may just leave your city-dwelling kids (and self) reeling. Love the idea of a road trip? Check out our inspiring guide to driving destinations from Singapore.
How to get there
Hop on a coach, which will take approximately seven to eight hours. Bookings are available at www.singaporemalaysiabus.com.
What to do
The cool climate means year-round strawberry production. Drop by Big Red Strawberry Farm or Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm for an interactive visit – your kids can even have a go at picking juicy strawberries. Learn about the tea-making process at Boh Tea Plantation and sit down with a warm cup of tea while you bask in the picture-perfect surroundings.
Where to stay
For a romantic hideaway with a grand colonial theme, Cameron Highlands Resort is a refreshing change from generic hotels and stuffy rooms. Located on the largest hillside resort in Malaysia, it’s surrounded by Tudor-style cottages and houses an award-winning wellness centre. Enjoy a traditional English meal laced with Asian flavours, or a sumptuous picnic spread in the heart of the Boh Tea Plantation.
3. Be in Bintan in less than an hour
Why go?
If six-hour long roadtrips and plane rides sound too high-maintenance for you, Bintan is less an hour away so you can ease the stress of traveling with kids. Come here with only one thing in mind: pure relaxation. Swish resorts (with kids’ clubs for precious romantic time with the hubby) and spas for mind-melting rubdowns are at your fingertips here. Want more? Read all about a family stay that reminds us why we still love Bintan.
How to get there
Take a 55 minute ferry ride from the Singapore Cruise Centre at Harbourfront. Check out the ferry schedule at www.singaporecruise.com.sg.
What to do
Sun-seeking families will be spoiled for choice. From golfing and canoeing to island hopping and jet-skiing, the possibilities are endless. If a good pampering sesh (away from the kids of course) is what you’re after, there are plenty of spas that offer invigorating milk baths and therapeutic massages on the cheap.
Where to stay
Angsana Resort, Bintan is a family-friendly haven with its beach frontage and unobstructed views of the ocean without a ridic price tag. We recommend the Angsana Suite for its two bedrooms and sundeck. There’s a fab kids’ club for children between three to 10 years old, which offers activities like face painting and sand castle building so you can enjoy peace of mind while you’re soaking up the sun.
4. A city break in Kuala Lumpur
Why go?
This bustling, multicultural city is a lot like good ol’ Singers – except it’s loads cheaper (in case you haven’t heard, the Malaysian Ringgit is at its all-time low!) and is jam-packed with lots to see… and eat. That’s right, the busy capital is a foodie heaven with great kid-friendly cafes in hipster ‘burbs, 24 hour mamak stalls for your Indian food fix, swanky restaurants and street-side stalls for adventurous eaters. See our guide to KL with kids for the whole scoop!
How to get there
- Coach
Hop onto a coach for a six-hour overnight and affordable ride. Don’t worry about the kids getting bored – most buses are equipped with plush seating, free wifi and onboard entertainment. Check out http://www.easybook.com/bus-singapore-kl for bookings. - Plane
If you’re worried about getting restless on a long coach ride, a 45-minute plane ride is a quick and convenient option. On average, a plane ticket should set you back about $80-$140 and can easily be booked through budget airlines like Jetstar and AirAsia. - Car
A hot favourite of most Singaporean families, driving to KL makes for a fun and memorable road trip. Great for bigger families with more than a single driver.
What to do
If your kids are big fans of Singapore’s S.E.A Aquarium, KL’s state-of-the-art aquarium, the Aquaria KLCC, is guaranteed to bring huge smiles to their faces with its inhabitants of more than 20,000 aquatic and land animals from all over the world. Also, check out the KL Bird Park; it’s home to more than 3000 birds and is a huge hit with the kids (thanks to its Egg Incubation Room and Nursery). For mummies, get your retail therapy urges fixed at any of KL’s mega malls: Pavilion Shopping Mall is a shopping mecca for fashionistass while Mid Valley MegaMall houses high-street brands loved by yummy mummies everywhere: Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Zara.
Where to stay
Traders Hotel by Shangri-La
Welcome to the pulsating heart of the city – head to Traders Hotel by Shangri-La for the gorgeous rooftop pool with stunning views of the cityscape, 24 hour health club and free all-day dining for up to two children below the age of six (accompanied by a paying adult).
5. Sun, sand and splashing around in Bali
Why go?
The Island of the Gods has earned its name for good reason – it’s all about the breathtaking beaches, gorgeous mountains and mystical places of worship. Whether you’re on a romantic or family trip, Bali offers a plethora of activities to suit people of all ages and preferences Want more? Check out our list of fun Bali activities for kids, and our weekend guide to Bali for all the essential info.
How to get there
Fly from Singapore via budget airlines like Jetstar or AirAsia or Garuda Airlines.
What to do
While Bali is known for its wild beach parties and raucous nightlife, it’s also extremely kid-friendly. The tropical paradise’s Waterbom Park and Splash Park are great for (young and old) adrenaline junkies. If your bigger kids are up for it, river rafting on milder waters will have them raving about it to their buds for the longest time. Or take the kids on a scenic horse ride through one of Bali’s beautiful rice paddies or a secluded beach. To catch the sunrise with a cocktail in hand, Potato Head Beach Club is a noteworthy option for great music and massive lawns for your kids to run around.
Where to stay
The great news? Bali has heaps of family-friendly villas equipped with in-villa babysitters (hallelujah!) and private pools so you and your kids can splash out in peace. For a touch of Javanese royalty, Bali Ethnic Villas‘ thatched roofs and straw mats will offer a unique experience and is only a 10 minute drive from the beach and the vibrant shops of Seminyak. If a chic designer home is your thing, Villa Latitude is perched on a clifftop and is decked with floor-to-ceiling windows, two pinball machines and a private home theatre (seriously).