Weekends are for discovering in Singapore

For those working and living in Singapore a typical work week would involve plenty of stress, tight deadlines, swallowing lunch and long hours staring at a PC screen. This is of course until the weekend arrives. And what better way to take charge and recharge with a weekend getaway as Singapore is perhaps the best place to do it since it offers access to Malaysia and Indonesia.

Singapore offers beautiful getaways that are all within a short drive or an hour’s flight. The options are endless, from lazing on beautiful stretches of beach with pristine clear water or indulging in the relaxing charms of a spa, it’s just the beginning.

Towards the north one could choose to travel to Malaysia or Thailand, towards the south there’s beautiful Indonesia. In the south a ferry ride lasting about 45 minutes could take visitors to Batam or Bintan. The beaches here are absolutely amazing and are the perfect way to spend the day for those who love the outdoors.

Another place to find good beach getaways is the east of Malaysia, in Johor where the choice is between Desaru, Tioman or Pulau Sibu. The beach areas face the South China Sea and the water at these beaches is a beautiful turquoise colour.

Should doing a bit of shopping lift one’s spirits then what better place to find a shoppers’ paradise than at Bangkok, Thailand which is approximately two hours away by plane and shouldn’t cost too much with many budget carriers offering affordable means of travel.

Once in Bangkok the many markets open during the weekend offer the best bargains, even more so for those who have developed their bargaining skills. On the other hand those who have developed the upper hand in being streetwise will know quite easily how to discern a genuine product from those that have been reproduced.

If residents or tourists are too tired to travel, then Singapore itself offers the beautiful island of Sentosa which is close enough to reach. The beach side area offers good restaurants and cheap enough accommodation. However, for those with an appetite for seafood then Kukup in Malaysia is a must. Once known as a fishing village it offers fresh seafood that is affordable and absolutely delicious.

Sometimes weekend getaways are unplanned and a simple Singapore hotel reservation even at the last minute at a hotel could perhaps be the best break one needs. A boutique style hotel such as the Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore offers amenities like a sauna and outdoor Jacuzzi which are just what the doctor ordered to recharge those batteries.