Travel Guides & Tips

10 Most Popular Travel Destinations For Singaporeans In 2019 To Use Up Your Annual Leave

Popular travel destinations from Singapore


No matter a weekend getaway to Bangkok or far-flung trip to Europe, we’re constantly thinking of our next holiday. But we don’t want to waste our annual leave: these are precious days that we save for a memorable trip. Here are 10 of the most popular travel destinations that are undoubtedly worthy of our remaining AL:

P.S. DBS/POSB Cardmembers can get 20% off Scoot economy flights! 


1. Tokyo, Japan


As Singaporeans, we’re suckers for all things Japanese. And there’s no better place to visit than its capital city, Tokyo – it’s got the perfect mishmash of Shinto shrines and quirky themed restaurants. We especially love Tokyo for its alleyways filled with food, with hidden izakaya dens and ramen joints around every corner. 

Here’s what to check out in or around Tokyo:


2. Seoul, Korea


Another one of our faves? Undoubtedly, Seoul. All those k-dramas we’ve been bingeing on ain’t got nothing on the real deal. It’s shopping galore with districts like Myeong-dong and Insa-dong – free face masks and wholesale clothes wherever you go. Besides snagging shopping deals, you can also look forward to gorging down on street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (skewered fishcakes). 

Here’s what to check out in Seoul:


3. Taipei, Taiwan


Night markets and sweeping views – Taipei’s the perfect balance between #CityLiving and scenic countryside. With a convenient MRT system and helpful locals, this city makes for an ideal long weekend getaway even if you flunked your Chinese O-Levels.

Make sure to head down to Shilin Night Market to try an array of street food like the infamous Chou Dou Fu (stinky tofu) – don’t let the stench put you off, it’s delicious when paired with mala peppercorns! 

Here’s what to check out in Taipei:


4. Bangkok, Thailand


Bangkok has a rep for being the go-to for street food, night markets, and cheap shopping – all things that Singaporeans look out for when contemplating their next holiday destination. Those of us who have yet to make it down to the Land of Smiles will want to get on the next flight stat

It’s not just all “pad thai, tom yum, and green curry” either, since your itinerary is bound to be chock-full of fun activities – just check out the new things you can try in Bangkok this year. Here’s what else to check out in Bangkok:


5. Osaka, Japan


While not as popular as Tokyo, Osaka has its own fair share of charm. This city is known for its food scene – you’ll stumble across all sorts of treats within a square mile, from takoyaki (octopus balls) to okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake). It’s also got a world-famous aquarium, known for its sheer size as well as sea lions, dolphins, and whale sharks.

Here’s what else to check out in Osaka:


6. Sydney, Australia


As the unofficial capital city of Australia, Sydney’s not too different from Singapore – they’re both bustling cities that we know and love. But the one key difference is that Sydney comes with waterfront views and a cool temperature that dips down to an average of 8° during winter. Once here, we’ll be starting our cafe-hopping spree too. Expect brunch staples like smashed avo on toast and eggs benny.  

Here’s what else to check out in Sydney:


7. Athens, Greece


While Athens sounds like a far-flung destination, it’s still a popular holiday spot loved by many. This city is filled with ancient landmarks and scenic spots – it also works beautifully for day trips too, and not just Santorini, but picturesque islands like Hydra Island and Poros Island. 

Here’s what else to check out in Athens:


8. Melbourne, Australia


While many think of Melbourne as just another cafe hotspot, there’s a multitude of unique things to do – some, you won’t even imagine will exist in the land down under. From a vibrant pink lake to a graffiti street in the CBD, there’s plenty more to explore in this Aussie city beyond its ready list of cafes. 

Here’s what else to check out in and around Melbourne:


9. Berlin, Germany



Image credit: @viaggiarelowcost

Germany’s known for a myriad of things – not just frankfurter sausages but its rich history with ancient castles and WWII sites. And that’s exactly what Berlin has to offer, with an endless list of museums and historical landmarks. Those looking to try good food will be more than pleased with the currywurst – a grilled pork sausage with curry sauce, that’s one of Berlin’s most loved street bites. 


10. Gold Coast, Australia


All Australian cities have a fair share of outdoor trails and sea views, but it’s Gold Coast where we’ll head to for blue skies and sprawling beaches. The beaches here are superbly remote – it’s the ideal setting for a lazy afternoon basking in the sun. You can get out on the waters too, with activities like kayaking and snorkelling. 

Here’s what else to check out in and around Gold Coast:


Get 20% off Scoot flights with DBS/POSB Cards


Figuring out how to make the most of your remaining AL isn’t an easy feat – you’ve been eyeing Tokyo for a food trip but Berlin’s scenery is tugging at your heartstrings too. It’s now an easier choice to make with Scoot’s flight sale where you can easily get 20% off economy fares to 68 destinations

All you have to do is check out using your DBS/POSB Card and the promo code “DBS20 between 20th – 22th September 2019 to score cheaper air tickets! 

Find out more about DBS/POSB’s promo for Scoot here


This post was brought to you by DBS.

Pailin Boonlong

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