March 29, 2017

Long weekends are coming up—if you are in dire need of some R&R, a staycation might be an obvious choice, but there are a few islands worth exploring that are only a short plane ride away. Apart from calming waters and lush greenery, I am sure you will find the change in scenery soothing for your mind and soul.

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Telunas Private Island, Indonesia

This private island resort takes you into a world of tranquillity. Featuring overwater Sea villas with sweeping views of Sugi island, this sanctuary is the ideal spot for recuperating from the strains of busy city life. Rooms here are spacious with furnishings that are simplistically luxurious but made from recycled wood. Take a dip in their infinity pool or laze around in the hammock pavilions, while sipping on your mojito.

Nikoi Island, Indonesia

A short ride from Tanah Merah Ferry terminal takes you to this private Indonesian haven. The resort boasts one, two and three bedroom stilted villas which feature balconies overlooking the blue waters. Other facilities on the island include restaurants, bars and a granite pool with unparalleled views of the South China Sea. Pamper yourself at the spa with their wide range of treatment packages from massages to facials and full beauty regimes. There is also water sports and land activities which include snorkelling and kayaking as well as rock climbing and beach volleyball amongst others. For those who want something more relaxing, embark on a guided island tour and bond with nature.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Less than a two-hour flight away from Singapore is Malaysia’s island resort of Langkawi. The largest of an archipelago of islands in the Andaman Sea, her pretty beaches are a paradise for sunbathing and swimming.

Almost all the resorts here have private beach access for guests with some that have earned awards like the renowned Four Seasons Resort and The Andaman. Most of these establishments feature private villa style accommodations with lavish interiors and views of the sea and rainforest. There are also great alternatives like The Bayview Hotel or The Frangipani Langkawi Resort and Spa which have panoramic views of the island.

Krabi, Thailand

A highly popular tourist destination and scuba-diving hotspot, Krabi has an irresistible appeal to many. The main town itself is more commercially developed with a proper infrastructure of roads and buildings but visitors often come more for her famous clear water beaches, the most noted being Railay Beach.

Be awed by the crystal waters and stunning limestone cliffs as you approach the island and feel that soft fine sand once you disembark from the boat. There are many accommodations from the chic Railay Village Resort to the more family oriented Railay Bay Resort and Spa, all just a short walk away to the beach. If you want to do more than sun tan, try rock climbing. There are different climbing routes and instructors to guide you if you have never done it before.

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Boracay, Philipines

You can now take a direct flight to Boracay where the beaches are known for having some of the clearest azure blue waters and whitest sands in the world. White Beach is situated on the west coast and is more frequented by tourists due to its vibrant and energetic vibe.

If you are looking for undisturbed time alone,  Bulabog Beach on the east coast is more secluded. It has an ideal atmosphere for catching the breeze and easing the mind, especially in later months of the year when the easterly winds kick in. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of water activities like kite boarding, surfing and sailing. Capture the gorgeous sunset over the horizon in the evenings, while you enjoy a glass of wine for an unforgettable experience.