Sure, some Singaporeans are happy booking their seventh trip to Phuket or Bali, but we’re noticing a growing trend in searches for some unique destinations. Here’s 5 that may take a little longer to reach, but are more than worth the effort.
|
Five unique destinations to visit in 2016 | |||
| Destination | Hotel recommendation | Return flight | Increase in flight searches 2016 |
| Mauritius | The Westin Mauritius Turtle Bay Resort & Spa | S$1367 |
26% |
| Dubrovnik, Croatia | Hotel Excelsior | S$1972 |
18% |
| Boracay, Philippines | Mandala Spas & Villas | S$615 |
15% |
| Ulan Bator, Mongolia | Shangri-La Hotel | S$1253 |
14% |
| Queenstown, New Zealand | Novotel Queenstown Lakeside | S$1353 |
13% |
Mauritius
Seven hours isn’t really that long a flight when this ocean paradise is your port of call. While the lagoons and reefs are already tempting the divers amongst you, the nature enthusiasts might be surprised to find picture perfect rainforests, waterfalls and hiking trails winding throughout the mountainous interior of the island. For those that crave the hustle and bustle, the capital, Port Louis, offers lively markets and a thriving nightlife. Beach parties are known to spread across the whole island.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
‘This 16th-century jewel, with its stone walls, Renaissance churches and breathtaking sea views….’ is how a travel guide might introduce this city, but many of you probably know Dubrovnik from the mighty ‘Game of Thrones’. While GoT tours are increasingly popular, there’s a range of other activities for you that don’t involve dragons, from exploring the medieval architecture and boutique shopping to relaxing on the multitude of beaches just outside the city. With all of this on offer, Dubrovik should rank high on your places-I-must-see list.
Boracay, Philippines
Speaking of places-I-must-see lists, shouldn’t a destination repeatedly named “the best little island in the world” already be on there? Sure, the journey involves multiple connections but don’t let an airport transfer or two stop you from seeing this paradise. Flaunting both resorts, restaurants and nightlife, as well as vast beaches made to unwind on, it won’t even feel like the trip was any effort at all.
Ulan Bator, Mongolia
Adventurers ahoy! Sandwiched between China and Russia, Mongolia’s vast, untouched grassland, desert and mountain landscapes are teeming with outdoor activities for the bold. Trekking, rafting, camel riding and ger (a round tent covered with animal skins) camping are just a few of the options available to you intrepid explorers. The capital, Ulan Bator, is also worth a visit. The cityscape is prone to inducing a sensory overload with its mishmash of high rises, Soviet architecture, ger settlements and Buddhist monasteries.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Where do we even start telling you what’s worth experiencing in Queenstown? We could tell you that the skiing, snowboarding and extreme sports are world-class, but then we also need to tell you that Queenstown offers some of the best nightlife in the Southern Hemisphere. We’d also be remiss if we didn’t tell you that you have to check out Milford Sound, considered by many to be the most beautiful place in New Zealand. Our recommendation is to use Queenstown as your base and see and do as much as humanly possible.
This blog post is also published on SilverKris.com
Note to the editor: Analysis for increase in flight searches based on searches between 1 July 2014-8 May in 2015 and 2016 respectively for flights in 2015 and 2016. Flight prices are the lowest found on KAYAK.sg on 19 May 2016 for travel between 1 June-15 July 2016. Prices are quoted in Singapore dollars and are based on a return economy flight for one person, including taxes and fees. Prices quoted may change and may no longer be available.
