Looking to escape Singapore with the kids (or without 'em!) for a few days? Here's your guide to great holiday destinations for short trips
Looking to make the most of Singapore’s public holidays and head out of the country for a weekend getaway with the family (or maybe just as a couple)? We called up the holiday destination pros at Lightfoot Travel for an extensive short list of short getaways from Singapore.
KOH SAMUI
An island of beauty and charm, Koh Samui is one of our go-to beach getaway in Thailand at this time of the year: pristine beaches, turquoise waters and proximity to the Ang Thong National Park for excellent diving and snorkelling make it a dream beach getaway. Lush tropical gardens are also abundant for those looking to go on a few nature walks. Options for everyone.
For couples
Tucked away at the very northern tip of Koh Samui, feel your inner peace restored as you arrive at the Six Senses Koh Samui. Those views! This private pool villa! That spa! We are particularly fond of the award-winning “Dining on the Rocks”: an incredible menu with incredible views.
For families
In addition to the customary baby-sitting services, the Intercontinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort is equipped with their own kids club, Planet Trekkers, with separate age-appropriate activities for 4-7 and 8-12 year olds. Think cooking classes, tennis camp, seed sowing and beach soccer… Mum and Dad can relaaaaxxxx.
Intercontinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort
BANGKOK
If you missed out on getting a shopping fix during the Great Singapore Sale, why not head to Bangkok? We love this capital in the land of smiles for its cuisine, boutiques and luxe sky-bars. This time, stay out of the crazy traffic and head to somewhere quieter along the river.
For couples
Peace and tranquillity reign at The Siam; a stay here is very unlike any other chaotic Bangkok experience. Spacious suites starting at 80sqm have double wardrobes and sinks, sumptuous bathtubs, and even a comfortable living room for an afternoon read. Sip a cocktail by the riverside infinity pool or practice yoga with their masters to seriously unwind.
For families
Another riverside property, but this one distinctly family friendly: The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Kids from 3-14 years are treated like mini-VIP’s here. You can easily nip out to shop and spa, while organised cultural activities, educational games and arts and crafts projects keep the kids occupied.
The Siam, Bangkok
CENTRAL VIETNAM
Hue, Hoi An & Danang, the trio of Central Vietnam. Hard not to enjoy yourself in this particular region where beach and culture mingle seamlessly. Hue is celebrated for its cuisine as well as being a centre for art and literature. Comparable to an ancient Far East fairytale, Hoi An’s charming architecture is a highlight for anyone visiting Central Vietnam. Once you’ve had your fill of culture, Danang has a seemingly never ending coastline, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sunshine.
For couples
Banyan Tree Lang CO – Couples, Lagoon or Beach Pool Villa
White sandy beaches, tropical jungle and rugged mountain peaks surround the Banyan Tree Lang Co, creating a very unique and exclusive environment, perfect for spending some down time with your cheri. Participate in a yoga class, have fun on the links, captain a catamaran… You will not want for activities there. Too strenuous? Indulge your senses at the hotel’s spa!
For families
A stone’s throw from Hoi An, on the coast lies The Nam Hai – a paradise for families. For large families, check right into the spacious 3 Bedroom villas, which start at a very spacious 520 sqm, and come with their own private 15m pool. Drop your kids off at the Kids’ Activity Villa, where they will delight in sports, board games and Vietnamese arts and crafts (think paper lanterns and conical hats!)
The Nam Hai, Vietnam
BALI
Whether this is your first trip to the ‘Island of the Gods’ or you consider this beautiful island your second home, Bali never ceases to impress with it’s relaxed, tropical vibe. Climbing up volcanoes at dawn, embarking on a spiritual adventure, relaxing in the comfort of your villa, doing yoga poses, learning to master those waves… Go on and book your flight.
For couples
Sleek and serene, Alila Villas Soori is located between verdant rice terraces and beaches, giving you the best of what Bali has to offer. In this relaxing, stylish and luxurious properties, chances are you will forget all about the hustle and bustle of city life as you sip on tasty cocktails at sunset, or pamper yourself at the spa. For a bout of culture, the impressive Tanah Lot temple is close by.
For families
Do you sometimes feel like other hotel guests are giving you or your exuberant kids the stealthy stinkeye, as they ‘make full use’ of hotel facilities? Villas are the answer. The Layar is a complex of villas in the heart of trendy Seminyak, which means you have the services of a hotel AND the space of a villa. Look no further!
The Layar, Bali
MALDIVES
No introduction needed – honeymoon paradise, the clearest waters, the amazing sunsets, and all around one of the most relaxing places on Earth. The Maldives deserves at least a 3 to 4 night stay, especially if you’re looking to go to more remote areas for an even more unique experience.
For couples
Newly opened, the remote, and equally stunning, Thaa Atoll is home to Maalifushi by COMO, the ultimate barefoot chic escape for couples. Here, the emphasis is on relaxation and rejuvenation and the COMO Shambhala Spa has everything you need to unwind. An exceptional dive and snorkelling site, don’t be surprised if you come face to face with a whale shark! There is also an excellent surf break for all those that are looking for a little thrill while on their holiday.
For families
As the only resort on the unchartered Laamu atoll, the Six Senses Laamu will have you and your little ones feeling like modern day Robinson Crusoe. With beautiful beaches and clear waters like everywhere else in the Maldives, what really makes this place special for families is the unparalleled service and the original activities for families: treasure hunts, dolphin cruises, jungle cinema… The Den, the hotel’s kids club will also entertain your kids so that Mom and Dad can spend some alone time.
