Looking for a Southeast Asian side-trip or quick weekend getaway? Singapore is surrounded by an array of must-see locations, and it’s not difficult to grab a cheap flight and go. Get ready to branch out beyond the city-state’s borders; these destinations are just a stone’s throw from Changi Airport.
Kuala Lumpur
Located in the heart of Malaysia, this bustling metropolis is perfect for a city-centric escape. Explore the National Monument at Lake Gardens, use your credit cards for travel on a little luxury shopping in the Golden Triangle and then eat your way through the city’s bustling Chinatown.
- Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaSprengben [why not get a friend] / Art Photos / CC BY-NC-SA
Angkor Wat
Interested in a peek at one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic archeological sites? Day-trip over to Cambodia for the historical Angkor Wat. This famous temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of ancient culture, art and ingenuity.
- Angkor WatMikeBehnken / Foter / CC BY-ND
Phuket
When it comes to natural beauty, it doesn’t get much better than Phuket. This Thai island is known for its breathtaking beaches, limestone cliffs and picturesque vistas, and you’ll find some incredible restaurants lining the coasts of Karon and Rawai. Prefer to revel in the nightlife? Patong is one of Asia’s most thriving party towns, so you can soak up both the sun and the club scene in equal measure.
- PhuketEustaquio Santimano / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
Tioman
Situated off the east coast of Malaysia, this tiny island boasts a huge claim to fame: Its beaches provided the setting for the renowned 1958 film “South Pacific.” Though it’s barely inhabited, Tioman is an ideal destination for scuba divers, snorkelers and hikers. Unwind at the peaceful Juara beach, and then set off for a trek through the stunning snorkelers’ paradise of Monkey Bay.
- TiomanRnD.de.Portraits / Beach Photos / CC BY-NC-ND
Batam
If you’re interested in a few of Indonesia’s can’t-miss sights, charter a flight or grab a quick ferry to the small island of Batam. You’ll be able to visit the Mesjid Raya mosque and Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya temple before kicking back on the lovely Melur Beach.
- BatamLezlieN / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
Bintan
Want to explore Indonesia’s Riau Islands even further? Island-hop from Batam to Bintan for its unspoiled beaches, lush rainforests and family-owned seafood restaurants. From Tanjung Pinang, you can even catch an inexpensive ferry to other Riau Islands like the beach-covered Karimun and sleepy Kundur.
- Bintanstupz / Beach Photos / CC BY-NC
