Escape the heat at these cool (Pun intended!) wintery Southeast Asian destinations near Singapore.
See also: Love adventurous honeymoons? Go caravanning at these gorgeous places!
1. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Sat on a mountaintop blanketed by geenery, the weather in Cameron Highlands is cool throughout the year, with an average temperature of 18°C. Take in the view at the tea plantations, pick fresh strawberries from the fruit farms, or discover the tranquil town’s colonial history through its Tudor-style architecture. Not without stopping for some cream-slathered scones – a tribute to its British colonial history.
2. Da Lat, Vietnam
First established as a holiday resort for French commanders, holiday seekers love this sleepy highland town that’s equal parts zen monastries waiting to be discovered, French-style cottages and doses of nature generously splashed acros the city, like the Thai Phien Flower Village (pictured).
Tip: Stay till night falls, when the shimmering lights give an ethereal quality to the sparkling flower garden.
3. Chiang Rai, Thailand
The cold season lasts from late November to late January, when temperatures average about 20°C. One for the culture vultures: the Wat Rong Khun (pictured), also known as “the White Temple”, is easily one of the most iconic temples in Thailand.
See also: Affordable honeymoons! 5 destinations near Singapore
4. Sapa, Vietnam
In the winter, from December to February, the weather in Sapa becomes very cold – it’s even seen snow! Want to cool, but not dead cold? From March till May, springtime brings cool breezes and ornaments the town with fresh blooms – quite a sight to behold. Different hilltribe minorities that inhabit this hilly town; watch them at work in the lush rice terraces, at the markets in town, or even in their villages (best to hire a trekking guide).
5. Cipanas, Indonesia
You’ll be in awe of this Europian rural town, except it’s actually a peaceful village in West Java. Gushing streams and bubbling lakes as well as mountains spotted with caters and otherworldly geothermal wonders are perfect for exploring what Singaporeans would call “air-conditioning temperature”.
See also: $80.70 from Bangkok to Maldives for your honeymoon!
6. Bukit Tinggi, Malaysia
This French-themed holiday village sits on natural forestland some 800 metres above sea level. With the caress of the cooling breeze as you stoll through the resort, it’s not hard to imagine yourself holidaying in an European town. Great for a quick weekend getaway!
7. Tagaytay, Philippines
Picture this: fly through a breathtaking, gaping ravine enveloped wit nature’s beauty (and across a volcano, too!), cutting through fluffy clouds and cooling 24°C air. Kids get to ride too – strap them safely to your back. Or explore the secluded waterfalls, century-old trees and medicinal (So said!) pools at the Hidden Valley Springs. This resort town is all about wellness and going back to nature, with none of the sweat-inducing heat when trekking and getting around of course.
See also: 7 top honeymoon spots for the luxurious vacay you’ve been dreaming of
This article originally appeared on The Finder.