Maximize Your 2024 Holidays: Singapore’s Long Weekends and Getaway Ideas
Singaporeans, get ready to mark your calendars for 2024! With several long weekends on the horizon, it's the perfect time to plan your getaways. Whether you're looking for a quick beach escape or a cultural adventure, we've got you covered.
Here's a guide to help you make the most of your public holidays with minimal leave days, complete with destination suggestions, cost estimates, and trip summaries.
1. New Year's Day Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Jan 1 (Tuesday)
- Suggested Leave Days: None needed for a long weekend.
- Destination: Bintan Island, Indonesia
- Cost: Approx. SGD 250-300 per person
- Summary: Just a ferry ride from Singapore, Bintan Island is a serene beach paradise. It's perfect for those looking to start the new year with relaxation, offering beautiful resorts, spas, and golf courses.
2. Good Friday Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Mar 29 (Friday)
- Suggested Leave Days: None needed for a long weekend.
- Destination: Phuket, Thailand
- Cost: Approx. SGD 400-500 per person
- Summary: A popular beach destination, Phuket is known for its stunning sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. It's an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
3. Hari Raya Puasa Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Apr 10 (Wednesday)
- Suggested Leave Days: Apr 8 (Monday) and Apr 9 (Tuesday)
- Destination: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Cost: Approx. SGD 350-450 per person
- Summary: Experience the dynamic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. The city offers a rich history, bustling street markets, and an incredible culinary scene, making it perfect for a culturally enriching getaway.
4. Labour Day Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: May 1 (Wednesday)
- Suggested Leave Days: Apr 29 (Monday) and Apr 30 (Tuesday)
- Destination: Bali, Indonesia
- Cost: Approx. SGD 450-550 per person
- Summary: Bali's spiritual and scenic beauty is unparalleled. From its tranquil beaches to its artistic hubs like Ubud, Bali offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for cultural exploration and relaxation.
5. Vesak Day Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: May 22 (Wednesday)
- Suggested Leave Days: May 20 (Monday) and May 21 (Tuesday)
- Destination: Hanoi, Vietnam
- Cost: Approx. SGD 400-500 per person
- Summary: Hanoi is a city where tradition meets modernity. Explore the Old Quarter, enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and visit historical landmarks in this charming city.
6. Hari Raya Haji Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Jun 17 (Monday)
- Suggested Leave Days: None needed for a long weekend.
- Destination: Tioman Island, Malaysia
- Cost: Approx. SGD 300-350 per person
- Summary: Tioman Island is a nature lover's paradise, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, and lush jungles for hiking.
7. National Day Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Aug 9 (Friday)
- Suggested Leave Days: None needed for a long weekend.
- Destination: Langkawi, Malaysia
- Cost: Approx. SGD 300-400 per person
- Summary: Langkawi offers a blend of adventure and relaxation with its stunning beaches, rainforests, and cable car rides. Enjoy duty-free shopping and water activities in this tropical haven.
8. Deepavali Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Oct 31 (Thursday)
- Suggested Leave Days: Nov 1 (Friday)
- Destination: Bangkok, Thailand
- Cost: Approx. SGD 350-450 per person
- Summary: Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, famous for its majestic temples, vibrant street markets, and lively nightlife. A must-visit for an energetic and culturally rich experience.
9. Christmas Day Extended Weekend
- Public Holiday: Dec 25 (Wednesday)
- Suggested Leave Days: Dec 23 (Monday) and Dec 24 (Tuesday)
- Destination: Taipei, Taiwan
- Cost: Approx. SGD 500-600 per person
- Summary: Taipei offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions. Enjoy hot springs, night markets, and cultural landmarks in this dynamic city.
Plan your 2024 getaways around these long weekends to make the most of your time off. Each destination offers a unique experience, ensuring that every break is both refreshing and memorable. Remember, early planning can help secure the best deals and make your travel experience smoother!
