Spend your weekends seeing the world with these recommendations by Lightfoot Travel that get you out of Singapore - and into holiday-mode - fast.
Manila the frenetic capital of the Philippines, is usually the touch-down for island-hoppers, but with its speakeasy bars, restaurants and edgy galleries it’s an easy destination to fall for. The wonderful old Spanish colonial quarter and artisan markets are captivating!
Stay: The Farm at San Benito is a two-hour drive from Manila and one of the few truly medical and wellness resorts in Asia. Offering guests an exceptional healing environment for the body, mind and soul, you’re encouraged to try one of their wellness programs. On-site integrative doctors, licensed therapists and movement consultants supervise you throughout, and - as The Farm delights in ingredients fresh from their organic gardens - you’ll leave feeling amazing inside and out.
Cambodia's charms are endless and at the heart of its beauty are the temples of Angkor Wat. Standing magnificently just outside Siem Reap , a century has passed since explorers rode elephants through the jungle and discovered the complex of creeper-clad ruins. Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site in the early hours and spend the rest of the day exploring the colourful narrow streets, art, markets, restaurants and bars that Siem Reap has to offer.
Stay: Embraced by 15 acres of beautifully landscaped French gardens, Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor combines old-world grandeur with tranquility. Located only 8 kilometers from Angkor Wat, it’s a great place to explore the spiritual and archaeological masterwork. Relax and revitalise under the hotel’s frangipani trees, beside the pools, or on the magnificent terrace.
Surrounded by lush jungle, deep valleys and spectacular scenery is dramatic Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s tallest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea. Boasting UNESCO World Heritage status it’s ‘climber-friendly’ as no specialised skills are required to climb it, although guide ropes are used for certain sections. Get your body moving as you navigate the granite peaks and feel stress levels disperse as you take in the plants, birds and wildlife. The hike tends to take two days and is a peaceful and exuberating way to spend a weekend.
Stay: The Le Meridien in Kota Kinabalu is ideal for quick break. With fabulous views, stylish rooms and an outdoor pool it’s excellent for relaxation and being right on the waterfront esplanade, the perfect spot for shopping, markets and bars.
Phuket is amazing for an easy injection of rest and relaxation. The gleaming white beaches are some of the best in the world, the watersports are unparalleled, the nightlife has to be seen to be believed and the Old Town is fascinating for admiring the local architecture.
Stay: Anantara Phuket Layan Resort & Spa lies in enchanting tropical gardens on a private stretch of beach on the west-coast. Combining impeccable service, the finest cuisine and superb facilities - including a shoreline infinity pool and a lavish spa - it’s the go-to for couples and families seeking the ultimate fly ‘n’ flop.
Ho Chi Minh with its timeless alleys, ancient pagodas, teeming markets and street-side merchants is an attack on the senses and a guaranteed great escape. Simply wandering the streets (while being mindful of the traffic!) will keep you more than occupied, but for those who want more history, the complex Cu Chi tunnels, just outside of the city, are a fascinating visit.
Stay: Despite its central location, Park Hyatt Saigon is the perfect antidote to the bustling city. A 20-metre outdoor pool is nestled in landscaped tropical gardens, and the Xuan Spa offers therapeutic massages.Guests can enjoy Italian cuisine at Restaurant Opera and stylish Vietnamese food at Square One. The 2 Lam Son Bar is a winning hangout for an evening martini.
Lightfoot Travel is a luxury tour operator with offices in Singapore, Hong Kong and Dubai, specialising in designer holidays to countries spanning seven continents around the world. Find Out More Here!
