Travel has been on everyone’s wish list for almost three years, so 2023 is the year of adventure. However, deciding where to go in the new year can be overwhelming when you have the entire World to explore. So we have broken down the list to 2023 must-visit Asia travel destinations to make life easier for you. From Beach holidays to history tours, this list has something for everyone. 

JANUARY 2024 TRAVEL – HANOI, VIETNAM

HOW TO GET TO HANOI

Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Bamboo Airways and Vietnam Airlines all fly to Hanoi direct from Singapore in approximately 3.5 hours.

Transport: In under an hour, you can get from Noi Bai International Airport to downtown Hanoi (or the french quarter).

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather 

Hanoi weather is colder in January, ranging between 14°C to 21°C, which makes it a pleasant time to travel to Vietnam. 

Tipping 

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but they appreciate it significantly if they have helped or assisted. If the service is good, you should tip; this includes servers, guides, drivers, hotel staff etc., and anyone in the customer service industry. Try not to tip with coins, small denomination dong notes, or filthy and ripped notes; this could be considered disrespectful. 

New Years Festival

Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, is a six-day celebration that usually falls between January and February. However, in 2023 it will be held on January 22, and it will be the year of the cat.

Language

While Vietnamese is the country’s official language, there are 110 officially recognized dialects spoken around the country.

Currency

At the time of posting this article, 17465.57 Vietnamese dong = 1 Singapore dollar

WHY SHOULD YOU GO TO HANOI?

Vietnam is full of culture and history, and while most head to Halong Bay or Ho Chi Min City, Hanoi is usually either a point to start your trip or a transfer option. Hence, it is a must on your 2023 Asia travel destinations bucket list. But Hanoi has been labelled the cultural capital of Vietnam, so I am here to tell you first-hand that it is a fantastic city with loads of history. 2023 Asia travel destinations must

THREE THINGS TO DO IN HANOI

Paloma Motor Bike tours: This exciting tour has you on a moped driven by females. Your guide will have you riding through the streets of Hanoi and stopping off at some great food venues and stop history spots. 

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Admission to the Mausoleum is free for locals, but for tourists, it is VND25,000 (about $1), but the lines are very long; a mausoleum is a sacred place built as a sign of respect to the previous president Ho Chin Minh. Remember to wear things that cover your knees and shoulders, and remember that Photography is not allowed inside.

Pagoda tour: The Perfume Pagoda is a group of temples and caves full of limestone at Mount of Fragrances. The best way to get there is by boat ride from Ben Duc village. The scenery is impressive, and women usually row the boats. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Recommendation – take the sites in at your own pace, with the hop on, hop off bus.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS IN HANOI: 

Hotel Emerald Waters Classy is affordable, rooms are comfortable, breakfast is included, centrally located, and it has a rooftop pool and bar area. 

FEBRUARY 2024 TRAVEL- BORACAY, PHILLIPINES

HOW TO GET TO BORACAY

To fly from Singapore to Boracay, you must take a connecting flight via Manila. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Asia all fly there, but you’ll need to fly either to Kalibo or Caticlan Airport. If you arrive at Kalibo airport, it is a 2-hour bus or car ride to Caticlan jetty; however, if you arrive at Kalibo airport, then it’s only an 8-minute drive to the jetty. 

From the jetty, you can either purchase a ticket online or at the jetty (unless your hotel has a transfer for you). 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The weather in Boracay in February ranges from 24°C to 29°C, which makes it the perfect time to visit this beautiful island. However, it does get busy at this time of the year, especially for those from colder climates seeking a warm destination getaway. 

Tipping

Tipping is usually not expected in Boracay, but the locals greatly appreciate it. If you want to leave a tip because the service was excellent, you should do so. Although tipping isn’t necessarily expected, tour guides do expect a little something for their effort. 

Boracay Latin Dance Festival

Boracay Latin Dance Festival – From Thursday, February 23 to February 26 2023, there will be Afro-Latin Grooves on one of the Most Beautiful Islands in the World! 

Language 

In Boracay, they speak Tagalog, Filipino, and a host of other languages. However, English is widely spoken on the island. 

Currency

At the time of posting this article, it is 40.88 pesos per 1 Singapore dollar. 

WHY SHOULD I GO TO BORACAY?

Due to the 2018 closure and beach cleanup, new beach regulations and the lack of tourists between 2020-2022. However, Boracay has been cleaned up, and much of the coral has been restored, making it feel like paradise. 

THREE THINGS TO DO

Some of the best Scuba Diving: If you are a beginner, there is no shortage of places for introductory courses and many great opportunities for experienced divers. 

Water sports Activities: You name it, Boracay has it, from Tandem parasailing to kiteboarding and everything in between. Some cruises allow you to snorkel, while others are there to catch the sunset. So if you are a flying doughnut type or a floatable banana kind of person, Boracay is one big water playground for you to enjoy.

Discover the island by foot:  Although most people come to Boracay better way to discover this piece of paradise in Asia than by a 6-hour tour by foot with an experienced tour guide who knows the area better than anyone. 

Recommendation: There is nothing quite like a sunset cruise in one of the most beautiful places in the World.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION IN BORACAY

Shangri la Boracay has its own beach and its very own boat to get you to the island (and waiting room), and it feels like pure luxury.

MARCH 2023 TRAVEL – TOKYO, JAPAN

HOW TO GET TO TOKYO

Getting from Singapore to Tokyo takes just under 7 hours, and you have a few choices, such as ZIPAIR, Scoot, Japan Airlines and Singapore Airlines. 

Transport: There are two major international airports, Haneda, approximately 35 minutes away, and Narita International airport, about 1.5 hours away. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

Weather in March is warming up with a range of 5°C to 14°C perfect to see the cherry blossoms bloom. 

Tipping 

Japan is one of the few countries worldwide that offer unbelievable customer service without expecting anything in return. However, tipping in Japan is neither expected; it can also be considered rude.

Festivals

• Sakura festivals in 2023 run from March 23 – April 10 2023, with flowering expected on March 20 and full bloom on March 27. 
• Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival from March 23 – April 10 2023
• Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival from March 17 – April 3 2023
• Bunkyo Cherry Blossom Festival from March 25 – April 9 2023
• Rikugien Cherry Blossom Light-Up from 18–31 March 2023
• Chidorigafuchi Cherry Blossom Illuminations from March 23 – April 3 
• Iiyama Hakuryu no Mai Taiko Drums from 28 March – 5 April 2023

Language

Japanese is the official language, and although the younger generation speaks English, it will probably do you good to learn a few phrases in Japanese. 

Currency

When this article was posted, 100 yen equals $1.11 Singapore dollars.

WHY SHOULD I GO TO TOKYO?

March is the busiest time to visit Japan, as there is such a small window for the cherry blossoms to be enjoyed. However, every year is different, so if you want to visit japan, especially for the Sakura Season, you must check before you go. This is because the streets are so beautiful at this time of year; everything represents the season, for example, sakura sparking wine, sakura-flavoured drinks and food.

THREE THINGS TO DO

Visit China Town in Yokohama: Yokohama has more than just Chinatown; It has a beautiful display of Cherry Blossoms around the area and the French District to explore, with the Cup Noodle museum as a bonus.

Explore the streets of Tokyo: What better way to discover some of Tokyo’s favourite districts, such as Shibuya, than with a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide? The streets in Tokyo are full of hidden gems, and you are to discover just a few of them. 

Tsukiji Fish Market: Why not combine two more traditional things in Tokyo? Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish market and learn how to make sushi. This fish market is where you will find some of the most expensive tuna in the World being auctioned. 

Recommendation: If you want to make the most of Tokyo, then a tour that includes the modern to the traditional parts of Tokyo is the best way to go. 

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION IN TOKYO

Hotel New Otani is one of my favourite hotels in Tokyo; it is centrally located minutes away from the subway, the famous Ninja restaurant, loads of shops and restaurants and right next door to a beautiful 400-year-old Japanese garden. 

APRIL 2023 TRAVEL – Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA

HOW TO GET TO PHNOM PENH

With just under 2 hours of travel time from Singapore, it is a perfect long weekend destination. You can fly there by Singapore Airlines, Cambodia air and Jetstar to Phnom Penh. 

Transport: Phnom Penh International Airport is 35 minutes away from the city centre. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The average temperature for this region in April is from a comfortable 24°C to 36°C.

Tipping 

Tipping isn’t expected in this part of the World, but as Cambodia relies heavily on Tourism, tips are greatly appreciated. Leaving a small token of appreciation to any service industry employee makes a big difference. 

The Cambodian New Year festival 

The Cambodian New Year is celebrated from April 14 to April 16 in 2023; it can also be named the Khmer New Year. This three-day celebration coincides with the end of the harvesting season and is based on the traditional solar new year. 

language 

The official language spoken by most of the population is the Khmer language; however, other languages are spoken, such as Vietnamese, Lao, Chinese, Thai and English.

currency

When this article was posted, the Cambodian riel was 3055 to 1 Singapore dollar. 

WHY SHOULD I GO TO PHNOM PENH?

Cambodia is full of history, and the capital city is no different and should be this year’s Asia travel destination must. Although most people fly straight to Siem Reap, spending a week exploring this great city is often forgotten. This is a must on my  Asia travel destinations recommendation list.

THREE THINGS TO DO

S-21 Prison and Killing Fields: Yes, Angor Wat is beautiful, but we must remember what happened here (not long ago). If you want to know about the history of this beautiful country, then you must visit the S-21 prison and killing fields (I wouldn’t recommend children), but adults will be moved by the harrowing history that went on here.

Mekong River Sunset Cruise – Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful view along the river to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in South East Asia. There are many cruises to choose from along the riverbank; some are only 30 minutes and can be picked up along the riverbank, while others are more organized and include unlimited drinks and food. 

 Visit the Royal Palace; The Phnom Penh Royal Palace is a Khmer-style Throne Hall built to serve as the residence of the King of Cambodia and his family. The Palace was built in 1866, where a silver Pagoda was constructed in 962 by King Sihanouk.

Recommendation: Have a drink at the Raffles Hotel bar; you will feel like you have stepped back in time! The bar is beautiful, the staff are friendly, and the drinks are incredible.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION IN PHNOM PENH

Raffles Hotel Le Royal – You can not go wrong with any of the Raffles chain hotels; the Raffles Hotel Le Royal is much more affordable than the one in Singapore. The rooms are beautiful and lead down to a great pool area. This hotel screams old-time luxury. 

MAY 2023 TRAVEL – CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

HOW TO GET TO CHIANG MAI

With a short 3-hour flight, Scoot and Air Asia fly directly from Singapore to Chiang Mai.

Transport – The Chiang Mai International Airport is approximately 20 minutes by private transfer to the city centre. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The temperature in Chiang Mai at this time of year is a perfect range between 23°C to 34°C. 

Tipping 

Tipping isn’t expected in Thailand, and there is no mandatory requirement; however, small gratuities for excellent service are very much appreciated. 

Inthakin City Pillar Festival

Inthakin City Pillar Festival is held on May 28, which centres around Wat Chedi Luang, where the offering of flowers and incense and candles to Buddhists.

Language 

While the official language is Thai, others speak the former Lan Na Kingdoms Northern Thai Language.

Currency

When writing this article, $1 Singapore dollar equals 25 Thai Baht.

WHY SHOULD I GO TO CHIANG MAI?

Thailand is a beautiful country, but most people aim for sunny beach holidays with a little bit of culture, Chiang Mai might not have the beaches, but it has much more culture, beautiful scenery and unique people.

THREE THINGS TO DO 

Elephant Sanctuary: Thais love their elephants, and the Chiang Mai region is no different. This area has many elephant sanctuaries to choose from, where the animals are treated respectfully, and there is a significant educational aspect for visitors.

Bamboo Rafting: Spending a full day hiking to a fantastic waterfall, hanging out with some rescued elephants and then sailing down the river on a bamboo raft. A tremendous experience for all ages.

Thai Cooking class: If you love Thai food and cooking, this is the best opportunity to learn how to create some of your favourite dishes. Visit an organic farm where you will cook with the ingredients you pick straight from the farm.

Recommendation: Evening Local Street Food Market Tour is a great way to discover some of Thailand’s best local street food; let the experienced guide introduce you to new and exciting flavours that you usually wouldn’t try.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION IN CHIANG MAI

 The deer resort is in a great location with friendly staff and a great swimming pool at an affordable price. 

JUNE 2023 TRAVEL- SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

HOW TO GET TO SEOUL

There are many options from Singapore to Seoul, which include T’way Airways, Scoot, Air Premia, Asiana and Korean Air. 

Transport – If you require airport transport, book early and make life easier, as there are two international airports. Either Incheon  International Airport or Gimpo International Airport. Otherwise, if you would instead rent a car, that is always an option too. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The weather in Seoul at this time of year ranges from 18°C to 27°C; it can be a little wet sometimes, so be prepared for it.

Tipping 

The general rule is that the service should always be good, which is why tipping can be considered rude.

Language 

Korean is spoken in South Korea, but Japanese, English and Mandarin are spoken but the younger generation. 

Currency

When writing this article, 1 Singapore dollar is worth 938 Korean Won. 

WHY SHOULD I GO TO SEOUL?

Most tourists head to Japan and don’t even consider South Korea, but they should because Seoul is full of tradition and culture. This area is unique and should be considered as it is nothing like its Japanese neighbours.

THREE THINGS TO DO

Changing of the Guards: Visit Gyeongbok palace, where you can see the changing of the guards at the hour every hour, then head on in and see for yourself the traditional South Korean Palace.

DMZ – The demilitarized zone is an agreement between two military powers that forbid military activities. The DMZ is the border of North and South Korea.

Bukchon Village: Step back in time and visit this traditional Korean Village where you will see hanoks (old Korean-style homes). As Bukchon Hanok Village is an actual neighbourhood, please ensure to be respectful while looking around. If you would like to go on a tour, book here.

Recommendation: Nanta Theatre Show is a fun, comical, entertaining musical. Found in the Myeondong area, where you can also wander around the vibrant neighbourhood. 

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION FOR SEOUL

Grand Hyatt is ideally located in Itaewon, with a great pool area perfect for summer. 

JULY 2023 TRAVEL- PERHENTIAN ISLANDS, MALAYSIA

HOW TO GET TO PERHENTIAN ISLANDS

It would be best if you flew to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore and then to Kuala Terengganu Domestic Airport. From Singapore to Kuala Lumpur is a 1-hour flight, and then KL to Kuala Terengganu is also 1 hour. You can catch a taxi to the ferry pier, and then you can catch a boat to the island (the tickets are available at the ferry pier) 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The maximum temperature is about 31℃ during the summer months.

Tipping 

Tipping is not expected but is appreciated. Most restaurants will charge a 10% service charge, so they are already included. However, you can still tip on top of this for exceptional service. 

Language 

Bahasa Malay is the national language, with some mandarin, Tamil and English spoken in other areas of Malaysia. 

Currency

When this article was written, it was 3 Malaysian Ringgit to 1 Singapore dollar. 

WHY SHOULD I GO TO THE PERENTIAN ISLANDS?

We all know that Langkawi and Penang are great places to visit in Malaysia, but if you are looking for a real authentic experience with white sand and crystal clear water, then the Perhentian Islands are where you want to go. 

THREE THINGS TO DO

Snorkelling: There is not much to do in this white sand paradise, but that is the reason to go. Perhentian Islands is a place of pure relaxation, but the water is so clear snorkelling is a must-do activity. 

Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary Beach on Basah – The highlight of this part of the World is the beautiful turtles in this area; the best place to see them is at the Turtle sanctuary.

Kayaking – this area is too pretty not to take advantage of the water sports on hand. Kayaking is the easiest way to get around and spend time in crystal clear waters.

Recommendation; Island hop; there are other great islands in this area; try somewhere else, like Laguna Redang Island Resort, for a day out. 

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS  FOR PERHENTIAN ISLANDS

Perhentian Island Resort is authentically Malaysian, from the room decor to the food choices but isn’t that what you want when you are travelling to a new destination?

AUGUST 2023 TRAVEL- BALI

HOW TO GET TO BALI

Singapore Airlines, Scoot, KLM and Garuda fly from Singapore to Bali, and it takes just under 3 hours to get there. 

Transport: You can hire a car or a driver to explore the island; the choice is yours in which way you want to get around. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

August is the sunniest month of the year, with an average temperature of 27°C, as it is the driest time to visit. 

Tipping 

It isn’t expected; however, most tip between 5-20% at restaurants and service people such as housekeepers, private chefs and drivers etc. 

Sanur Village Festival 

Sanur Village Festival is a week-long festival now quickly becoming the island’s most significant, primarily focusing on art, culture, food, water sports and environmental awareness. 

Language 

Although the national language is Bahasa Indonesian, most Balinese can speak two or three languages, including Balinese and English.

Currency

When this article was written, 1 Singapore dollar equals 11596 Indonesian rupiahs. 

WHY SHOULD I GO TO BALI?

Everyone loves Bali as it is an accessible destination from Singapore, and every area will allow you a different experience. Moreover, it is an affordable destination for the entire family. 

THREE THINGS TO DO

Spa Treatment: Nothing is more luxurious than a day soaking in a bath full of petals after a massage, facial and other well-known spa treatments. In most places, this experience can set you back a small fortune, but in Bali, there are many affordable options.

Water Sports: Bali is another destination with many water sports choices. From parasailing to jetskiing, this little island has it all. 

Ubud: Spend a day exploring the great region of Ubud, from rice terraces to a volcanic day tour. This region has so much to offer; here, you will see a huge difference in contrast to Nusa Dua and the areas around the coast of Bali.

Recommendation – spend a day visiting another island, such as Nusa Penida, seeing the amazing manta Bay and swimming with the fascinating Manta Rays.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BALI

The Grand Hyatt Bali, The Grand Hyatt Bali is a resort in Nusa Dua that caters for all types of tourists; with a private beach and affordable prices, you can’t go wrong with this location. Want more options in this region? Try reading the St Regis Hotel review.

SEPTEMBER 2032 TRAVEL- SINGAPORE

HOW TO GET TO SINGAPORE 

Why not stay at home and enjoy your time exploring the red dot? This time of year is when the cooler weather kicks in, and you start to appreciate what Singapore offers. 2023 Asia travel destination is right on your doorstep so it is time to explore.

Transport – public transport in Singapore is one of the easiest ways to get around. Start exploring this island by bus, train or grab and take full advantage of the affordable activities. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

This time of year in Singapore ranges from 24°C to 31°C, but the humidity level can be as low as 64%.

Tipping 

You are not expected to tip in restaurants as you’ll find that there is already a 10% service charge and 7% GST. However, you can tip other services for extraordinary experiences if it is worth it. 

The Mid-Autumn Festival

Mid-Autumn Festival – One of the loveliest Chinese festivals in Singapore, celebrates the end of the autumn harvest with family and friends gatherings, lanterns and mooncakes and is held on September 29

Language 

Although the National language is English, you will find Chinese, Malay and Tamil regularly used within the community.

Currency

The Singapore dollar is the currency of this tiny island. 

WHY SHOULD I STAY IN SINGAPORE?

Or, in this instant, why should you stay? Exploring your backyard has many advantages, such as the convenience of knowing where you are and sleeping in your bed (if you choose to) and not spending a massive amount of money getting to the destination.

THREE THINGS TO DO

Play tourist for the day, Spend the day on the hop-on, hop-off bus and see all the sites you have been meaning to see but have yet to get around to. 

Singapore Botanic Gardens: Spend the day at the Botanic Gardens and explore this UNESCO world heritage site. From the beautiful flora and fauna to some great restaurant choices, there is plenty to do here that will keep you busy all day.

Explore Pulau Ubin; Feel like you are in another country by spending time in Pulau Ubin. Step back into the simpler life and hire a bike, explore the little island and enjoy lunch at the little Chinese restaurant. 

Recommendation: Spend the day exploring with The city Go card, where there are 40 plus activities to choose from on this card which will save you a few dollars as well. 

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION

Staycation ideas –There are many great hotels to stay in Singapore; it depends on where you would like to stay and the type of vacation you want; this blog post has many excellent recommendations.

OCTOBER 2023 TRAVEL – NEW DELHI, INDIA

HOW TO TO DELHI

Getting to New Delhi from Singapore takes just under 6 hours; many airlines to choose from, such as Jet Airways, Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Air India, Silk Air, Druk Air and IndiGo.

Transport: The best way to get from Indira Gandhi International Airport is via private transfer, and it only takes around 30 minutes to get to downtown depending on the traffic.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The Weather in New Delhi in October is a comfortable 19°C to 33°C with no expected rain during this month.

Tipping 

Tipping is expected at restaurants at 10% but for exceptional service. Then you can tip more. However, if the bill is higher, then tip less. Other services also expect to be tipped as well.

Diwali Festival

Diwali is held from 21-23 October 2023. This Hindu festival with lights is celebrated throughout the country and marks the beginning of the financial year in India.

Language 

Hindi is the official language of Delhi. However, there are many dialects within the Hindu language. 

Currency

When this article was written, it was 61 Indian rupees to 1 Singapore dollar.

WHY SHOULD I GO TO DELHI?

India is so intriguing, culturally exhilarating and full of history, and although there are many exciting places to visit, New Delhi is a great first stop on any Indian adventure.

THREE THINGS TO DO

Explore the new and old Delhi: Spend the day with a knowledgeable tour guide who will weave you through the streets of Delhi’s new and old areas. Here you will see the highlights of the most popular parts of this exhilarating city.

Gandhi tour:  Spend the day visiting Gandhi’s journey, from the museum and his home to his assassination and burial. The tour is a fantastic look at a remarkable man’s journey in life. 

Taj Mahal: You can’t come all this way and not take a day’s tour of one of the most iconic places in the World. Agra is about 3.5 hour drive, so you will be up early to enjoy heading to this fantastic destination, so be prepared for a big day out. 

Recommendation: Let a guide show you what the locals eat by visiting local stands via rickshaw. 

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION FOR DELHI

The Oberoi New Delhi is pure luxury; from the moment you step into this world-class hotel to the moment you leave, you are treated with exceptional service surrounded by pure luxury. 

NOVEMBER 2032 TRAVEL – Fesdu Island, MALDIVES

HOW TO GET TO MALE

Flights from Singapore to Male are just under 5 hours. The airlines that fly to Maldives direct are Singapore Airlines and Saudia Airlines. 

Transport: Once you arrive, there are three options (depending on where you are staying), via bus, ferry or seaplane. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The daily temperatures are an average of 27°C. However, humidity and rainfall can be high, and showers during this month pass quickly as this is the start of the dry season.

Tipping 

Although tipping is grateful, most resorts are all-inclusive and have already installed a 10% surcharge on the cost of your stay.

Language 

Although the national language is Dhivehi, other areas, such as Sinhalese from Sri Lanka, influence the languages spoken here. English is also widely spoken in the resorts by staff.

Currency

When writing this, it was 1 Singapore dollar to 11 Maldivian Rufiyaa (although most resorts are prepaid).  

WHY SHOULD I GO TO MALDIVES?

The question is, why shouldn’t you go? This area of the World is like stepping into heaven and then wondering why you have never thought to visit earlier and is highly recommended for a 2023 Asia travel destination. Do not be scared away by some of the world-class resorts that cost the World to visit; there are many affordable places to stay where you can enjoy the crystal clear aqua-coloured water and the pure white sandy beaches.

THREE THINGS TO DO

Snorkel: This is the number one thing to do anywhere you stay in the Maldives. Most hotels will allow you to either rent or borrow their snorkelling equipment, where you can snorkel right by your bungalow. However, there are many other day trip options that your resort runs that you can book from your hotel once you arrive. 

Scenic flights – If your hotel is in an A-toll and a seaplane must be the only mode of transport; you may leave this out of your list. But if you are catching a bus or ferry, you have to experience this part of the World from up high; the view must be seen to be believed, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Island hop: Although most people staying on their island resort is all they want to do (and might be too far away from anyone else) but for others checking out what else is out there is what this dream destination is all about. Check with your hotel once you arrive to find out if there are any island-hopping opportunities and day trips on offer.

Recommendation – spend at least one night in an overwater bungalow; the experience will be remembered for the rest of your life.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION FOR MALDIVES

W Hotel Maldives – If you are looking for a romantic getaway, this is the ideal location for your Maldives holiday experience. With excellent restaurant choices to romantic tour opportunities, the W Hotel Maldives knows precisely how to spoil you. 

DECEMBER 2023 TRAVEL – GALLE, SRI LANKA

HOW TO TO GALLE

You can fly the 3.5-hour flight from Singapore to Colombo with either Sri Lanka Airlines or Singapore airlines. 

Transport: The best way to get from the Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo (40 minutes) or Galle (2 hours) is via private transfer. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Weather

The weather in Sri Lanka at this time of year is between 24C and 31 C. 

Tipping 

Tipping is expected in service areas in Sri Lanka, usually around 10% for restaurants and other services.

New Years Eve

New Year’s Eve: Beachside parties are common during this time of the year, and the best areas for New Years’ Eve parties are Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, and Unawatuna.

Language 

The Sinhala language is the national language; however, Tamil and English are widely spoken in the region.

Currency

At the time of this article, 1 Singapore dollar equals 274 Sri Lankan rupee.

WHY SHOULD I GO TO GALLE?

THREE THINGS TO DO

Yala National Park  Spent two days on a safari adventure, where you will experience Yala National Park by trekking and driving around with an experienced tour guide. Have you ever wanted to sleep in a treehouse? Well, here is your chance!

Explore Galle: This Unesco Heritage site is an example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing European and South Asian architectural styles and traditions.

Visit Kandy: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of Sigiriya and the rock fortress and Dambulla cave temple; however, the highlight for me was the spice garden.

Recommendation – Explore outside of Galle and experience the most talked about train ride in Sri Lanka from Kandy to Ella. The Trains run twice daily between Kandy and Ella; spend a few days exploring this incredible part of Sri Lanka – you won’t regret it.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATION FOR GALLE

Mango House Galle Fort – This quirky place in the middle of Galle Fort is the perfect location for your Sri Lankan stay. The rooms are affordable, and the staff are lovely. 

More information you may need: 

Travel Insurance

SafetyWing is the World’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad. Perfect for those who will be away for long periods, live and work abroad or are nomad travellers. However, insurance is for more than just people living abroad; there are other options worth investigating for anyone looking to go on vacation. 

Visa Requirements

If you are still determining whether you need a visa, check online before going. For example, the ivisa website is a quick and easy way to check whether your passport requires a permit.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

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