We may only be two months into 2024, but we’re definitely ready for a quick getaway. Whether you’re planning to escape the nosey relatives, or simply make full use of the long weekend that’s in store, this shortlist of last-minute travel destinations should come in handy!
Chinese New Year looks a lot like this: You sit on the couch inhaling tins of snacks while mindlessly scrolling through social media for your friends’ New Year #OOTD. For those who don’t celebrate, it’ll probably look… pretty much the same.
This festive season can either be a boon or a bane for most of us. And for the latter, it’s either too overwhelming or waaaay too boring. Thankfully, we’ve got a solution for that. These days, many travel destinations within Asia Pacific have become friendly for the Chinese New Year escapees, making it easier than ever for individuals to squeeze in a quick recharge.
So if spontaneity courses through your veins, we hope you’ll be inspired by these eight travel destinations. Read on for our shortlist of places to travel to this Chinese New Year for a short getaway ⬇️
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Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024:
1. Pai, Thailand
If you’d like to experience something different for a change, give the bustling Bangkok a miss. Instead, fly into Chiang Mai and make your way to the charming town of Pai, where you’ll be greeted by majestic mountains, dense jungles, and an unmistakable bohemian vibe. While it has increasingly become a popular destination for backpackers from various parts of Thailand, Pai is still far from losing its local, laid-back charm.
Image credits: Tourism Authority of Thailand
While you’re here, make time to visit the iconic Pai Canyon for stellar views of the city and beyond. We’d recommend visiting at sunrise to beat the crowd but if you prefer appreciating nature with other human beings, then a visit at sunset is a must. Not to be missed includes a trip out to the Insta-worthy Bamboo Bridge, the Big Buddha statue, and maybe even the Tha Pai Hot Springs for a healthy dose of nature and culture. However, if you’d like to fully immerse yourself in the local culture of Pai, rent a motorbike and explore the paddy fields and villages in the area.
Image credits: NOMADasaurus
Of course, no trip to Thailand is complete without ambling around a night market. Pai Night Market is known to be a bustling hub for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of live music, artisanal crafts, and street food to keep you occupied the entire evening.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Check out the best budget destinations to travel to in 2024 here
2. Hong Kong
Image credits: TimeOut
This may seem like a wildcard destination, considering that Chinese New Year is probably the most important holiday for the locals. But thanks to the influx of tourists and expats in recent years, Hong Kong has become more friendly for those who don’t celebrate the festival — with many malls and restaurants remaining open throughout the festivities (this has been confirmed by the Hong Kong Tourism Board!).
Of course, this also makes for the perfect opportunity for you to see how our neighbours in Asia celebrate the New Year. Check out the Night Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui for stunning performances and displays, and make time to spin the iconic fortune pinwheels during the Che Kung Festival (the second day of the New Year) for some good luck.
Image credits: TimeOut
And in the spirit of all things festive, pay a visit to the iconic Victoria Park Flower Market, the biggest and most popular of all night markets, to bask in the bustling festive atmosphere you’d otherwise not have access to during the rest of the year.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Check out this 7D6N Hong Kong itinerary
3. Bali, Indonesia
What’s a Singaporean weekend getaway shortlist without the mention of Bali? After all, it’s perfect for those looking for a good mix of nature, culture, and some good ‘ol partying.
Image credits: Girl Eats World
If your usual haunts include Seminyak or Kuta, it’s time to shake things up by spending some time in Canggu, a surfer town that has become the go-to location for those looking to enjoy some self-care or to connect with like-minded individuals. Pay a visit to La Brisa Farmer’s Sunday Market to get your hands on fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, organic produce, and some unique crafts and clothing to call your own.
If picking up a new hobby is part of your 2024 resolutions, then perhaps an afternoon of surfing is also in order — Batu Balong Beach is the perfect spot for beginners. Of course, not all hobbies are created equal. If sports isn’t your cup of tea, then you may want to channel your creative energy into some pottery at the Nusa Clay Club instead.
Image credits: Nusa Clay Club
And of course, the Balinese nightlife. Our top picks would be The Lawn, La Brisa, or the newer Sol Rooftop Beach Club for scenic views and great vibes.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Best out 14 best affordable Bali Resorts from S$53/night here
4. Tokyo, Japan
Image credits: Yokohama Japan
Maybe we’re biased, but we’d always recommend Tokyo for any long weekend trip thanks to its delicious food and amazing hospitality! We could go on about our favourite ramen joints or izakayas, but in the spirit of Chinese New Year, we’d recommend heading out to Yokohama for a day trip. After all, this city’s Chinatown has been famous for observing Chinese Spring Festival traditions since 1986! Revel in the festivities at the bustling Yamashitacho Park where you’ll get to feast your eyes on a showcase of lion and dragon dances done with a unique Japanese twist.
Image credits: TimeOut
Of course, if you prefer to spend the time indulging your inner foodie, don’t miss out on some umami-packed ebi dipping noodles at Tsukemen Gonokami Seisakusho, hearty rice balls at Onigiri Bongo, and a good mix of fun and indulgence at the newest gastropub, Another8.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Take a look at this year’s Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast here
5. Melbourne, Australia
Image credits: Visit Melbourne
If you’d prefer to stay away from any semblance of the Lunar New Year festivities, then perhaps a trip to the land down under is in order. We recommend Melbourne largely for its laid-back vibes, and for the undisputed cafe scene. While you’re here, pay a visit to the Organ Pipes National Park to marvel at the 2.5 million-year-old basalt columns, located a short 30 minutes away from the city.
Image credits: Australian Good Food Guide
Then, it’s time to indulge in all things food. Pay a visit to MAMASITA for some of the most authentic Mexican food you can find in this corner of the world, The Kettle Black for some hearty brunch fare, and of course, ST. ALi for a taste of culture and mastery in the form of a cuppa (or two).
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Check out 11 ways to save money while visiting Australia
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Image credits: Travel + Leisure
If you’re a culture vulture looking to unearth Asia’s storied past, then a quick trip to Luang Prabang, an ancient city in Laos, should be a priority. Perfect for families and solo travellers alike, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre is not to be missed. Stroll along the Old Quarter and admire the unique architecture from the yesteryears.
Image credits: Flying Fourchette
While you’re at it, pay a visit to the Royal Palace where you can learn more about the history of Lao in the museum housed within. Other must-visit locations in the city include the Wat Xiengthong Temple, where you can spend some time marvelling at the intricate glass mosaics and carved gilded wooden doors that depict different scenes from Buddha’s life, and the Phousi Hill for breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the Nam Kham.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Find out what are the top 10 trending destinations Singaporeans are looking at in 2024 here
7. Penang, Malaysia
Image credits: Hotels.com
Known for its delicious hawker food and unique culture, Penang is definitely a great place for a weekend getaway. While you may not be able to experience all the popular hawker stalls during this period, trust us when we say it’s still worth a visit. But if we had to shortlist some foodie joints to try out, they’d have to be the Penang Road Famous Laksa, the Duck Blood Curry Mee, and Ravi’s Claypot Apom Manis. As always, be prepared for the long queues, especially during the festive season, and arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Image credits: myPenang
If you’re also looking to immerse in the arts scene, we’d recommend spending time admiring the street art in George Town, visiting the Wonderfood Museum, and maybe even capping off the night with a cocktail or two at Backdoor Bodega, a speakeasy-style bar, or Good Friends Club for a kopitiam-style concept.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Check out this guide for the best Penang cafes to visit
8. Bintan, Indonesia
Image credits: Klook
Not too keen on taking a flight? Thankfully for us Singaporeans, tranquil beach resorts can be easily accessed via ferry too! Enter Bintan, one of the most popular destinations from here. Rally up your loved ones and book a stay at one of the many resorts available on the island for some peace and quiet. Or, book a stay at ANMON, a desert-themed glamping resort for the ✨vibes✨
Image credits: Bintan Resort
Of course, there’s more to Bintan than massages and kelongs — visit Trikora Beach, one of the 12 mangroves on the island or explore the breathtaking Bintan Desert for your hit of nature. But if self-care still calls out to you, then go forth to get all the massages and spa sessions you need. The Aroma River Spa is a popular spot, with plenty of packages available for you to choose from. For some food, visit the cult-favourite Kelong Seafood Restaurant at Nirwana Garden Resort for fresh seafood and a captivating sea view.
Places To Travel To This Chinese New Year For A Short Getaway 2024: Find out where else you should travel to in 2024 based on your star sign here
Kickstart Your Lunar New Year On An Adventurous Note
As you can already tell, the Lunar New Year holidays don’t always have to be spent cooped up at home. Instead, you can (and should) get a quick recharge while you can. After all, 2024 is the year of self-care and all things positive!
We hope that our shortlist can give you that much-needed travel inspiration, and if you’re looking to purchase some last-minute flight tickets or book your accommodations, we’ve got you covered. Simply use your YouTrip Card for some of the best perks in town on brands like Trip.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Qatar via YouTrip Perks.
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Happy Travels!
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