7 Nearby Travel Destinations To Consider For Your 2017 Long Weekends!
Wanderlusters rejoice! This 2017 brings about a fantastic slew of seven long weekends, signalling you to dig out that travel bucket list and finally tick off some places.
If you are stumped for ideas on where to head to, here are some travel destinations you should totally consider. Whether you fancy a romantic getaway or an adventurous trekking expedition, we have complied a list of seven nearby travel destinations you can consider heading to for your 2017 long weekends!
1. Hua Hin, Thailand
Forget the shopping paradise of Bangkok. Thailand’s seaside beach town, Hua Hin, boasts a delightful mix of cosmopolitan meets seaside ambience. Located a short 3.5 hours bus ride away from Bangkok, Hua Hin is a cheaper and more convenient location than heading to the other resort islands!
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Credit: Credit: Heading To Thailand? Here Are Two Places You Must Visit For An Epic Holiday!
2. Boracay, Philippines
Located right in the heart of Philippines, Boracay is no doubt the ideal weekend island getaway for sun-lovers and young couples. Its pristine white beaches and clear turquoise-blue waters are postcard perfect and will certainly make you want to lounge in the sun all day.
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Besides suntanning, Boracay also offers various exciting water sports that are bound to keep you occupied the whole time! Indulge in exhilarating activities such as diving, snorkeling, paragliding, windsurfing and many more in the day.
At night, choose from a huge variety of restaurants and bars dotting the beach that serve up delectable multi-cuisines and cold drinks.
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While the trek up both Mount Merbabu and Mount Merapi is relatively challenging, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Likewise, both treks can easily be completed within a day, though we highly suggest an overnight climb as climbing in the day would prove to be extremely hot.
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Yogyakarta is also known for its rich culture and traditional arts. Of course, no trip is complete without paying a visit to the world-famous Borobudur Temple!
Ideal weekend getaway for: beginner and intermediate climbers
4. Sapa, Vietnam
Set in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, Sapa is increasingly becoming a hotpot for photography-enthusiasts. Host to several hill tribes, expansive rice terraces and lush vegetation, Sapa is a no doubt a picturesque town.
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Take a stroll by along the seafront at Gurney Drive to walk off those full stomachs. Alternatively, explore the artsy-fartsy side of Penang by finding the numerous hidden street art located within the UNESCO Heritage site of Georgetown.
Ideal weekend getaway for: foodies and friends of foodies
6. Melbourne, Australia
Heading to Melbourne over the long weekend might seem a little far-fetched but it certainly is possible with the numerous flight deals! If cafe-hopping and getting high on caffeine sounds like your idea of a perfect long weekend getaway, then Melbourne is the place for you!
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Host to an overabundance of cafes, you will easily be able to pop into any one along the streets and grab one of Melbourne’s signature cuppas. In addition, Melbourne also boasts a wide selection of shopping options, from local designers to international brands.
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You absolutely cannot miss trying their local army stews, bibimbap and korean pancakes. Likewise, a food trip to Seoul will not be complete without indulging in delectable and savoury meats at a Korean barbecue restaurant! Additionally, if you have the time, you might even be able to catch a concert featuring some of Korea’s famous music artists or bands.
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With the onslaught of shopping and departmental malls, coupled with plenty of night markets, restaurants and cafes, Seoul is undeniably a heaven for foodies and avid shoppers alike!
Ideal weekend getaway for: major Korean pop fans, foodies and those seeking some retail therapy
Escape the hustle and bustle of the Singapore city life by heading to these destinations over the long weekends! Whether you are looking for a mad weekend getaway or a quick digital detox, these travel destinations will certainly fit the bill.
It is never too early to start making those travel plans for the upcoming long weekends in 2017! Furthermore, with the brand new year already starting, we highly suggest that you start scouring for exclusive travel deals now. As the saying goes: if not now, then when?
(Header image credit: pexels.com)
Also, read 7 Incredible Places In SEA To Discover With Friends!
G’day Mate! 7 Australian Cafes In Singapore That Feel Just Like The Real Deal
G’day mate! Our experiences tell us that some of the best coffee and food in the world comes from down-under – Australian cafes.
As coffee lovers, we can’t help but fall in love with that fragrant, freshly roasted cuppa joe. Pair it with some delicious and wholesome food (especially breakfast!) and ta-da, your day is made.
Though we are in fast-paced Singapore, it is true that you can find some really authentic, slow and relaxed Australian cafes here!
1) Luxe Sydney Singapore
Fall in love with the unpretentious Australian cafe over at Luxe.
Founded in Sydney, Luxe is an artisan bakery that focuses on making their own premium breads and pastries.
Their awesomeness has since expanded into Singapore, creating that approachable environment that offers amazing food, all day.
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Sourdoughs are simple, un-fancy, but it is certainly ultimate comfort food.
The sourdoughs over at Luxe are freshly baked, toasted and served with butter & their house-made berry jam. So delightful.
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Another must-try – the ricotta pancakes. There aren’t many places in Singapore serving them, and the one at Luxe is a real gem.
If you are really missing Australia, Luxe has got you this time round because those pancakes are the bomb.
Luxe Sydney Singapore The specially designed space and concept of Robert Timms is curated to create the rustic and casual dining ambience that we all love. The classic Australian cuisine is always famed for using the freshest ingredients. The outlet at Wheelock Place serves up your favourites ranging from the classic eggs & toast, Aussie baby ribs, and desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth! May we have some lamingtons please! The House of Robert Timms Address: Marina Bay Link Mall, 8A Marina Boulevard, #B2-11, Marina Bay Link Mall, Singapore 018984 Located in Robertson Quay, their outdoor seating area overlooks our Singapore River. Their indoor seating is large and welcoming with high ceilings – the cafe is almost always ready to impress you. Behind every cup of awesome coffee is a great barista and Toby’s Estate totally gets that. Every single cup and brew is specially crafted by their highly trained baristas, ensuring you get a perfect caffeine fix every single time you visit. Toby’s Estate Upholding their really simple philosophy of sourcing the best coffee and using the freshest ingredients in their food preparation, Jamaica Blue has expanded in 7 countries out of Australia. With their casual and minimal interiors, Jamaica Blue is an ideal place to savour your cup of mid-day coffee. From the classic Aussie banana breads to scones and a wide selection of bread and pastries, the cafe has them all. A really wise choice would be to pair a little snack with a cuppa latte. Relax, chill and enjoy. Jamaica Blue Address: Citylink Mall, #B1-10, Citylink Mall, 1 Raffles Link, 039393 Address: One Raffles Place, #01-62, One Raffles Place Tower 2, 1 Raffles Place, 048616 Their only outlet in Singapore is located at Dempsey Hill. The modern, brightly-lit and large space perks you up instantly and is certainly a great choice for your weekend breakfast. The highly comprehensive menu consists of a plethora of dishes, ranging from a simple fare of fresh fruits & vanilla yogurt to creating your very own cheese platter. Choose from a pretty insane list of cheeses – Brie de Meaux from France to Gruyere Reserve from Switzerland. The world’s best cheeses right at your fingertips. Wow! Jones the GrocerHill Besides serving up the usual Australian gourmet fares and artisanal coffees, Rokeby is staying true to their Australian roots. They have some mean varieties of Australian wines and beers! You won’t be able to resist some good ol’ waffles served with a knob of butter. Oh, and not to forget, that drizzle of maple syrup! Isn’t that what Australian food is? Simple, hearty, delicious and close to your heart. Rokeby They have your usual Eggs Benedict and Chicken Parma, but they are always having special dishes on their menu, thanks to their experimental chefs! Housed in a glasshouse with floor-to-ceiling windows (Goodman Arts Centre), the interior feels warm, inviting and really laid-back. A perfect spot for a weekend breakfast/brunch with your family. The communal tables at the outdoor seating area are also great for a gathering with your group of friends. Cafe Melba Address: Mediapolis, 1 Stars Avenue, #03-01, Singapore, 138507
Address: 1 Keong Saik Road #01-04 Singapore 089109 (The Working Capitol building)
Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 10pm, Sunday – Monday 9am to 4pm
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Address: Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road, #01-02/03, Singapore 238880
Tel: 6735 9201
Open:Sunday to Thursday & PH – 8am to 11pm, Friday to Saturday & PH Eve – 8am to 1am*
Tel: 6509 8117
Open: Monday to Friday – 7.30am to 7.30pm, Closed on Weekends & PHs
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Address: 8 Rodyk Street, 01-03/04 Singapore 238216
Tel: +65 6636 7629
Open: Sunday – Thursday 7.30am-6pm, Friday – Saturday 7.30am-8pm
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Address: Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Boulevard #01-606/607, Suntec City Mall. 038983
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 22:00, Sat: 09:00 – 21:00, Sun: 09:00 – 17:00
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 22:00, Sat – Sun: 10:00 – 22:00
Open: Mon – Fri: 07:30 – 18:30, Closed: Sat, Sun & PH
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Address: Block 9 #01-12 Dempsey Road, Dempsey Hill, Singapore, 247697
Tel: +65 6476 1518
Open: Monday – Sunday 8:00am – 11:00pm
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Address: 15-9 Jalan Riang Singapore 358987
Open: Mon: Closed, Tue to Fri: 11am-10pm, Sat/Sun: 9am-10pm
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Address: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Goodman Arts Centre, Blk N #01-56, Singapore, 439053
Open: Monday-Friday: 10am – 10pm, Weekends and Public Holidays: 8:30am-10pm
Open: Daily, 8am-10pm
6 Romantic & Secluded High-Tea Spots That Your Date Will Surely Approve Of!
Here Are Some Of The Most Gorgeous Photos Of Tasmania’s Lavender Farm And Southern Lights!
Located off Australia’s south coast, Tasmania is an isolated island state filled with rugged picturesque scenery.
Because it was one of the world’s major apple producers, literally the apple fruit, it became known as the “Apple Isle”. But it’s more than just an apple producer.
Just to put things in perspective, the Apple Isle (68 km²) is 95x the size of Singapore (719 km2)! Despite that, Singapore (5.5 mil) is 10x more populated than Tasmania (517k). What does this mean? Wilderness & beautiful scenery abounds in Tasmania!
Tasmania holds so many gems on its vast wild landscape that you will wanna visit over and over again! Discover why Tasmania is the new MUST visit place for a life full of wilderness!
1. This Mountain-Lake with Southern Lights
For a few days, hike through fascinating glacier-carved valleys, ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, waterfalls and more beautiful scenery. You can end your long walk at Lake St. Clair. Soak in the amazing and tranquil scenery at the deepest lake in Australia!
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Even if you don’t feel fit enough for the 65 km long alpine walk, fret not. There is a variety of day walks for visitors who are looking for a great scenic hike at Cradle Mountain.
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Don’t forget to look out for native wild vegetation, glacier rocks as well as the photogenic boat shed along the walk. Note that Cradle Mountain is also a hotspot to catch the spellbinding southern lights. So make this your first stop for some awesome Tasmanian wilderness!
2. Check out towering sea cliffs + more spots for Southern Lights
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How does walking along one of the most spectacular coastlines, with some of the country’s tallest sea cliffs sound to you? If that’s your idea of fun, follow the Tasman coastal trail within the splendid Tasman National Park.
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Discover the power of nature from the impressive rock formations at Tasman Arch. Also, try standing on the edge of the lookout to see if you can spot the bottom of the steep soaring cliffs.
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Of course, this popular Tasmania nature spot is also one of the best places to see the impressive southern lights!
3. Roam freely in the largest lavender farm in the world
Many people flock to Hokkaido in summer for the pretty lavender farms. But do you know that the world’s largest commercial lavender farm is actually in northern Tasmania?
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Bridestowe Lavender Estate is about a 45-minute drive from the state’s second largest city – Launceston. If you visit the Apple Isle from November to January, seize the opportunity to visit the beautiful lavender farm in full bloom.
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Run through the purple lavender fields without a care in the world. Feel in heaven with the aromatic fragrance of the blooming flowers. As you roam freely on the 260-acre huge fields, capture picture-perfect shots anywhere you want.
4. Feel on cloud nine at Mount Wellington
Accessible via a short drive from Hobart CBD, Mount Wellington is one of the top wilderness spots in Tasmania. It offers fantastic bird’s eye views of southern Tasmania as well as great walking and mountain biking trails.
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Literally feel on top of the world as you look down from the 1,270 m summit!
Of course, at such high altitudes, do prepare warm and windproof clothing as you ascend the summit. Surely you want to be in your best form when walking on cloud nine, don’t you?
5. See adorable native animals up close
Last but not least, how can we forget about Tasmanian wildlife? After all, you can’t be bushwalking in the marvellous national parks with your eyes closed, can you?
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Look out for the Tasmanian Devil, the largest carnivous marsupial found only in the wild in Tasmania. The cute bear-like marsupial is a local pride and joy of the island state.
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Besides the Tasmanian Devil, there’s a rich variety of fauna that can be found on the island. Keep your eyes open for the likes of adorable wombats, pademelon, eastern quoll as you enjoy the great walks in the numerous national parks.
Essentially, you don’t get to see them up close anywhere else except in Tasmanian wilderness!
With so many natural gems on the Apple Isle waiting for you to unveil, it’s probably hard not to fall in love with the rugged scenery! Filled with activities that will satisfy all, Tasmania certainly deserves more attention than it does now.
Rather than make repeat visits to the usual Australian cities such as Perth, Sydney or Melbourne, why not check out a different side of Australia? Create a unique Tasmanian holiday that will make you wanna live in wilderness!
Also, read Picturesque & Hidden Spots In Thailand You Must Discover Before They Get Crowded!
