As wonderful as the long CNY weekend was, it’s just left you wanting more time off of school or work! Unfortunately, the next public holiday isn’t until the 14th April. For most of us Singaporeans, that’s just too far away. The lethargy has set in, and you’re already fantasising about sleepy lie-ins and cocktails by the beach.
When jetting off to our holiday, we all just want less panic about changing flights, and more uninterrupted sleep. That’s why we found a list of direct flights to some dream destinations, which’ll guarantee you some peaceful, uninterrupted shut-eye.
While everyone else is getting hyped up over Dubai, we’re much more interested in its exotic neighbour, Muscat! This bustling metropolitan city is bursting at the seams with gorgeous rugged beaches, deserts, and insane architecture that’s just waiting to be explored.
And of course: look at this magical Bimmah Sinkhole which looks perfect for an afternoon dip. The sinkhole is filled with stunning turquoise waters which’ll make you feel like you’ve chanced upon the opening to the centre of the earth! Bring a snorkel and mask, ‘cause there are tons of beautiful fish you don’t want to miss out on. As the small fishes like to gently bite around your feet, you’ll even get to enjoy your own personal fish pedicure too.
If you time your visit right, you can get this sinkhole all to yourself! It’s secretly hidden between the coastal towns of Ḑibāb and Bimmah which means there’s a high chance you’ll be able to enjoy these soft sands and clear waters in complete privacy.
Price: Starting from around $400/per pax round trip
Book here on Omanair
For adventurers, you’ll have hit the goldmine with Darwin. Named after scientist, Charles Darwin, this Australian Capital is located in the Northern Territory. As rich as it is in indigenous culture and exotic wildlife, it’s a wonder that tourists aren’t flocking to it.
One of the top locations is the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, which caters to all. From swimming underneath waterfalls on powdery white sands, to sitting on top of vibrant cliffs overlooking the bay, you’ll find yourself fighting over what to do next. And don’t worry about the facilities in this park being scruffy, people are always surprised at how comfortable and clean they are.
If you’re looking for something extra: go all the way with Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove. It’s home to the largest Saltwater Crocodiles in Australia, where you’ll be able to come face to face with crocodiles in the “Cage of Death.” Each dive lasts for 15 minutes, giving the scaly reptiles a decent chance to take a bit of your head! Live for the gram, die for the gram.
Jokes aside, you’ll be in a safe cage that’ll protect you from the crocs. But if that’s still a bit too much for you, go for the picture opportunity with the baby crocodile instead – you’ll even get to hold it.
Price: Starting from around $366/per pax round trip
Book here on Jetstar
If you agree that there’s nothing better than hot sand running through your toes, then Dili is the place for you. Home to Areia Branca, the beach seems to never end. It’s also close to an abundance of bars and restaurants, meaning you can dine on freshly-caught fish and sip on coconuts when you’ve done basking in the sun.
And while others are diving in Thailand, or Malaysia – professional dive instructors are saying Timor “dumps all over them” with their coral and marine life. In just forty minutes of diving, you’ll be able to see a whole variety of fish and even small sharks. If you want to see schools of dolphins, Atauro Island won’t let you down. There have even been sightings of sperm whales in October and November.
For a good dive shop, try Dive Timor Larosae or Aquatica Dive Resort – they both have highly trained friendly instructors who would be more than willing to take you exploring under the sea.
Price: Starting from around $436/per pax round trip
Book here on Air Timor
Chào bạn, Vietnam! Phu Quoc is one of the lesser known locations in Vietnam – it’s a family-friendly island that offers snorkeling, fishing trips and of course – beaches on another level of exoticness. It’ll leave you sighing with happiness as you nestle yourself into powdery white sand, with beautiful palm trees shading you from the harsh rays of the sun.
If you come, you must visit nature’s wonder that is the bioluminescent plankton. There are only very few places where you can witness this, and Phu Quoc is one of them. Basically, this bioluminescent phenomenon happens when organisms like plankton is disturbed, which causes them to release a special chemical. This reacts with oxygen to create light, making the sea appear all magical and bright blue. Alright, science lesson is over – but it’s just like something out of Avatar.
Price: Starting from around $286/per pax round trip
Book here on Vietnam Airlines
Davao has been hailed the safest city in the Philippines, but that’s not all they have to brag about, as they also have access to 8 incredible islands. To get to any of these islands, you can either catch a bus or get on a boat. The most recommended ones are Samal Island and Paradise Beach, which honestly look like something that was taken straight from a post-card.
If you’re not a scaredy-cat like me, you can go and visit their incredible mountain hideaways. You’ll feel like Tarzan when you’re running about in the jungles, and even more so if you partake in their activities like sky cycling and ziplining!
When you’re done beating your chest from your exciting adventures high up in the trees, pop by one of Philippine’s most beautiful waterfalls to catch your breath. We recommend the Panas Falls, which has pure, clean spring water you can wade into. It’s the perfect spot to end your holiday, leaving you feeling relaxed and content.
Price: Starting from around $292/per pax round trip
Book here on Cebu Pacific
Home to Southeast Asia’s best beaches, you’ll definitely find one that suits your taste! If hordes of tourist make you turn and run in the opposite direction, you’ll have no such interruption on this unspoilt island gem. Dedicate a day to exploring Cham Island, 20km to the east of Hoi An, and its rich marine depository on a snorkel or scuba diving adventure.
But don’t just limit your Hoi An experience to harbour, their cultural exhibits are outstanding too. There are plentiful of temples, pagodas and shrines, including those built by the Chinese community. We recommend visiting the Vietnamese Goddess, Thien Hau, too. She bestows protection and good luck to people who sail out to sea.
Price: Starting from around $226/per pax round trip
Book here on Jetstar
Note: Closest Airport is Danang (DAD), then you travel for 1 hour by car to get to Hoi An.
With all of these holidays you’ll be jetting off to, you’ll need to give your skin a bit of extra TLC! As the sun causes water to evaporate from the skin, this can cause dehydrated skin which can contribute to premature aging. However, with Jergens Coconut Moisturiser, you can keep your sunkissed skin soft and beautiful.
With ultra-hydrating ingredients like coconut oil and coconut water, your skin will thank you. While coconut oil is packed full of vitamin-E and saturated fats, coconut water contains vitamin-C, helping you repair your skin’s natural barrier and retain moisture in your skin.
It’s a brand new edition to their moisturiser range, promising you visibly softer skin in no time! Oh, and don’t worry about sand sticking to you, as it’s light, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly without leaving any oily residue.
When you’re packing your suitcase for your next tropical vacay, make sure not to forget this essential item! Even after you’re done with your getaway, the fresh sweet scent of Jergens Coconut Moisturiser will have you reminiscing back to the beachy days.
If you fancy walking away with your own moisturiser, we’re giving 5 lucky winners 2 bottles of Jergens moisturiser! You’ll get either the hydrating coconut, daily moisture or the soothing aloe in the above photo.
To stand a chance to win, simply:
This contest ends on 10th March and 5 winners will be chosen, and each winner will walk away with two random bottles of Jergens.
This post was brought to you by Jergens.
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