The beginning of a new year often calls for a time of reset and reflection. It’s a blank canvas, a fresh start. A chance to look back on the good, the bad and the ugly and a shot at forging an improved future for the year ahead. The festive season can be indulgent and overwhelming, and there’s no better solution for recovery than a short getaway, taking a weekend off at most.
Being immediately thrust into the regular routines of life and work may come with underlying consequences. Some find themselves in a restless lull, unsure of how to go about it. Others may find themselves in a daze, recovering from the overload of festivities that flew by. But a short travel escapade can be a time of rest and play, and a chance to re-centre the mind, recharge the body and rejuvenate the soul.
With the travel spotlight gradually looking to the East, our region is claiming its crown as a travel hotspot. Though Singapore may be seen as a concrete jungle, its strategic geographical location grants convenient access to its surrounding neighbours. These destinations are a short ride away, offering an open door to untouched natural wonders and cultural havens. From a journey to the edge of wilderness at Nihi Sumba to a vibrant retreat at Public House Bangkok, each destination is a gateway to an unhurried pace of time full of discovery.
There are endless options to choose from, but look no further—below, Vogue Singapore’s guide to hotels and resorts around Southeast Asia that make for a perfect weekend trip to paradise.
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The Sirēya Desaru Coast, Malaysia
The Sirēya enriches the mind, body and soul as its doors welcome you to a thoughtful space that blends traditional culture and wellness. Situated just off the Desaru coast in Johor, a rejuvenating paradise awaits. Indulge in an urutan rub-down rooted in a blend of age-old traditions, be immersed in neuro-acoustic deep relaxation or pamper yourself with a massage inspired by Borneo’s revered indigenous healers.
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Nihi Sumba, Indonesia
It’s not as famous as its neighbour, Bali, which is precisely what makes Sumba Island appealing to those who crave more of Mother Nature. Carefully built to be an extension of the surrounding valleys, Nihi Sumba is a gateway to be one with the wild. You’ll find transformative experiences from the likes of tracing hidden paths to cascading waterfalls and equine retreats along the Nihiwatu shores, to adventurous treks through the Nihioka valley and its surrounding local villages.
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21 Carpenter, Singapore
Experience the best of both worlds at 21 Carpenter. Once a notable remittance house, the interiors boast new life while paying homage to its storied history. You’ll be close to Chinatown and Clarke Quay, giving you convenient access to famed cultural spots and electrifying nightlife. Explore the Singapore river and skyline with the hotel’s Linus bicycles for scenic city views.
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Public House Bangkok, Thailand
Located in the buzzy Sukhumvit district, Public House Bangkok is a contemporary take on a traditional British gentleman’s club. It doubles up as a boutique hotel and social hub, making it a hotspot for the creative crowd. Indulge in sharing plates of elevated street food classics, or have a refreshing tipple at the art deco bar that’s framed by mid-century design and panoramic views of the city.
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The Westin Nirup Island Resort & Spa, Indonesia
The Westin Nirup Island sits on Riau Islands, off the coast of Batam and a mere 45 minutes away from Singapore. It’s an idyllic getaway for all, where their 28 overwater villas provide direct access to the sea and island—and the sound of ocean waves make for a soothing lullaby. Fill your days with a relaxing spa experience or a stress-relieving session at the wellness centre.
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Vanavasa Resort, Malaysia
At the peak of Tanarimba nestled amongst the lush greens of Janda Baik in
Pahang sits the Vanavasa Resort. The secluded villa residence offers unbridled views to the wilderness of the Pahang Forest Reserve, with convenient access to picnic spots by the waterfall and the diverse flora and fauna of the Banjaran Titiwangsa mountain range.
