Author: Lim Lixuan

5 Destinations You Need To Visit For Your Perfect Summer Break!

Let’s face it, half the year has barely passed but your heart is probably already crying for a holiday. As much as you try to be patient, December is just too far away. So as firm believers of listening to one’s heart, we believe you deserve a well rested break before slogging it out recharging for the remaining year. Besides, it’s summer!

Whether you’re planning for a short weekend getaway or a week-long holiday, here’s our guide to 5 of the most popular travel destinations this June. Sparkling oceans and white sandy beaches here we come!

1. Bali, Indonesia

Are the sun, beaches, mystical temples and hipster cafes your thing? If so, Bali is the island for you! Up for some surfing? The western side of the peninsula happens to create one of the world’s best waves in June. For the outdoor junkies, take a hike up Mount Batur and enjoy Bali’s spectacular sunrise. With lots of sunshine during the dry season and a slightly cooler temperature, Bali’s the place to be in June.

Directions
There are around 16 direct flights available from Singapore to Bali daily. Fly by Tigerair, Silkair, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar or Garuda Indonesia to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. Flight time is approximately 2 hour 35 mins.

2. Beijing, China

The summer weather in Beijing may be slightly warm, but it’s a great period to visit as June happens to be the off-peak season as compared to the warmer summer months of July and August.

One of Beijing’s most holy imperial temples, The Temple of Heaven, is definitely worth a visit. If you are looking to take a hike up The Great Wall of China, June’s weather makes it the perfect time to do so.

Another good reason to visit in June is China’s annual Dragon Boat Festival. The festival falls on  the 9th of June this year. Explore their traditional folk customs and soak in the cultural vibes of this colourful festival.

Directions
With flights available via Singapore Airlines and Air China, do book your tickets in advance to snag the best deals! Direct flight time to PEK is 6 hours.

3. Koh Samui, Thailand

Looking for the perfect beach getaway? Head over to one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches! Temperature ranges from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius, thus making Koh Samui the perfect place for a summer break! What’s more, you’ll totally get your money’s worth as the day starts as early as 5.59am. You may also consider taking a day trip to Koh Tao so get your underwater gears ready before diving into clear waters and pristine reefs.

Directions
Four direct flights per day are available via Bangkok Airways and Silkair. Flight to Koh Samui takes 1 hour 45 mins.

4. The Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

With less than an hour via boat from the east coast of Malaysia, visit the natural beauty of Perhentian Islands. Imagine lying on the white sandy beach, with a cold refreshing glass of freshly squeezed juice – now this is life. With the weather remaining dry and sunny in June with average highs of approximately 30°C, prepare to venture into the underwater world of the island!

Whether you are looking for a place to lay back and relax or to escape from the tourist hordes, this beauty spot in the east coast of Malaysia is the best option for a weekend getaway!

Directions
By plane: Fly by Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia or Fireflyz via KL International Airport to either Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu (45 mins). Take a bus or taxi to Kuala Besut jetty (1 hour 30 mins from Kuala Terengganu airport /1 hour from Kota Bharu airport).
By bus: Board a night coach from Singapore (9.5 hours) before taking a taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty.
By train: Train services with comfortable sleeping berths are available nightly from Singapore to Kelantan, terminating at Wakaf Baru and Tumpat. Take a taxi to Kuala Besut (45 mins).

5. Hoi An, Vietnam

Visit the charming old town of Ha Noi and chill by the beaches nearby. The dry season provides superb visibility, making it a fantastic time to go diving and snorkeling off the coast of Hoi An. Temperatures range around low-30 degree Celsius to mid-30s degree Celsius. Looking for some fun under the sun or up for some sunbathing at the beach? This is the right place and time! Also, as accommodation prices are fairly affordable during June, you need not break the bank searching for good accommodation!

Ha Noi is a great destination if you are planning for a long weekend (about 3 to 4 days).

Directions
Fly direct with Silkair or Jetstar to Na Dang within 2 hours 45 mins. Transfer via cab to Hoi An.

Feeling the wanderlust? It’s time you pack your bags, book that ticket and go on that well deserved break.

(Header image by Mister Weekender, words by editor)

Also read: Cycle X Makan – 5 Best Food And Night Cycling Paths In SG

Can You Escape From Haw Par Villa’s Scary Adventure Game?

Are you looking for a place to hang out with your family and friends this weekend? Look no further! Heads up to all thrill seekers, if you are up for some spooky adventures and mysteries to solve, Haw Par Villa is the place to go!

This Saturday, Haw Par Villa will be turned into a massive “stage” with its scary statues as props. There’ll also be actors playing Chinese folklore characters.

The story is set around the plot of a school excursion which ended prematurely with a series of mysterious events taking place after. Join the race to search for clues and solve puzzles to find out what happened!

Titled Journey to the End and Back, this escape game event is a family-friendly and team oriented activity.

Organised in partnership with Lockdown Singapore and Journey Pte Ltd, each game set lasts approximately an hour with 6 per team. Experience this large scale game in the 3.2ha park, with the game zone covering 1/3 of it.

Journey to the End and Back takes place on May 21, at Haw Par Villa. Time slots start at 11.45am and ends at 8.45pm. Some slots have already been sold out!

Tickets cost $25 per person or $120 for a group of 6. You may purchase tickets