Cover 2026 offers six long weekends, and Singaporeans are making the most of them
2026 offers six long weekends, and Singaporeans are making the most of them
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With six natural long weekends on the horizon, working Singaporeans are embracing the elevated short escape
Here’s something worth celebrating: 2026 offers six natural long weekends, and Singaporeans are making the most of them. Good Friday (April 3), Labour Day (May 1), and Christmas Day (December 25) all fall on Fridays, whilst Vesak Day (observed June 1), National Day (observed August 10), and Deepavali (observed November 9) fall on Sundays with Monday holidays in lieu—potentially creating six perfect three-day escapes without having to use your annual leave.
According to Trip.com, there was a 45 per cent year-on-year increase in bookings for short trips of four days or less during the first quarter of 2026, with working adults aged 25 to 49 leading the charge.
The shift is significant. Instead of waiting for that elusive two-week break, working Singaporeans have discovered the joy of frequent, well-planned escapes distributed throughout the year. These six weekends offer the perfect opportunity to explore neighbouring cities without the extensive planning or time commitment of longer holidays.
The beauty of these micro-breaks lies in their accessibility. A Saturday night experiencing a Mayday concert in Kuala Lumpur. A Sunday morning discovering Wat Arun’s intricate ceramic murals in peaceful solitude. These destinations have evolved beyond convenient stopovers—they’re now thoughtfully curated experiences where flights rarely exceed four hours and cultural immersion begins immediately.
Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou topped Trip.com Group’s list of most popular destinations for such trips—cities that excel in accessibility, convenience, and seamless travel experiences. What follows is a curated guide to these destinations, designed to help you make the most of your six long weekends this year.
Read more: Destinations less than 3 hours’ flight from Singapore for a quick escape
Bangkok: high-octane classic
Above River cruise on the Chao Phraya River
River cruise on the Chao Phraya River
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Bangkok consistently delivers when it comes to quick getaways, offering an exciting mix of experiences that appeal to everyone. The city boasts everything from shopping districts and floating markets, to gravity-defying attractions like the King Power Mahanakhon Sky Walk, featuring a spectacular glass platform with 360-degree views of Bangkok’s dynamic skyline. Modern hotels throughout the city provide sleek, contemporary accommodation options, with some offering rooftop bars—which have quickly become a popular destination when visiting the city.
The culinary scene thrives at countless venues, from vibrant night markets serving authentic local cuisine to upscale dining establishments. Bangkok’s tourist-friendly infrastructure ensures a wide variety of group activities, a dynamic atmosphere, and memorable experiences at every turn.
Hong Kong: urban sanctuary
Above The famous Western Market in Hong Kong
The famous Western Market in Hong Kong
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Hong Kong masterfully balances energy with elegance. Some of its luxury hotels offer stunning harbour views and world-class hospitality across the city. The culinary landscape features exceptional dining venues, including multiple Michelin-starred restaurants where dining becomes an art form.
Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate world-class museums and vibrant street art districts. Hong Kong Disneyland ranks among the top overseas attractions booked by Singaporean travellers—a perennial favourite delivering nostalgic joy and world-class entertainment for families.
Guangzhou: family heritage hub
Above Aerial view of the South China National Botanical Garden n Guangzhou, Guangdong
Aerial view of the South China National Botanical Garden n Guangzhou, Guangdong
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Guangzhou shines as an ideal choice for multi-generational travel, particularly during the March school holidays. The city beautifully combines natural scenery, engaging animal attractions, and significant historical sites that captivate visitors of all ages.
The Chimelong Panda Hotel provides a playful, high-end base within the massive Chimelong Resort complex, where you can spend a full day at the Safari Park meeting giant pandas and white tigers. For a more cultural afternoon, the Nanyue King Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s ancient roots. End your stay with a sunset Pearl River Cruise, choosing the Haixinsha West District Pier for the most striking photography of the Canton Tower.
Penang: a soloist’s retreat
Above Tourists walking along the street at George Town City, Penang Island
Tourists walking along the street at George Town City, Penang Island
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Penang sits just an hour and a half away by flight from Singapore, making it wonderfully accessible for spontaneous solo adventures during public holidays. Heritage hotels offer immersive experiences in Peranakan culture, while the island’s diverse food scene, street art, and beaches provide endless discovery opportunities.
The local culinary landscape continues to impress with authentic hawker centres and traditional cafés serving legendary local flavours. Elevated walkways through rainforest canopy offer breathtaking panoramic views—peaceful moments for reflection. Welcoming cafés and guided heritage walks provide enriching solo experiences throughout the island.
Kuala Lumpur: live entertainment capital
Above Hotels throughout the city offer stylish accommodation, some with impressive views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers
Hotels throughout the city offer stylish accommodation, some with impressive views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers
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Kuala Lumpur has emerged as a regional powerhouse for event tourism, with live entertainment drawing Singaporeans eager to experience their favourite artists. The Mayday #5525 Live Tour in Kuala Lumpur on January 31 ranks among the top overseas attractions booked by Singaporean travellers—demonstrating how concerts now inspire destination choices alongside traditional attractions.
Hotels throughout the city offer stylish accommodation, some with impressive views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. The dining scene has reached exciting heights with multiple Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing innovative cuisine. The city’s excellent infrastructure allows travellers to easily incorporate trending events, performances, and sports meets into their itineraries.
Taipei: aesthetic escape
Above Tourists and locals walk around Raohe night market
Tourists and locals walk around Raohe night market
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Taipei earns high marks for navigation ease and thoughtful design, making it ideal for aesthetically minded travellers. The Da'an District stands out with boutique hotels alongside excellent dining options within easy reach. The city’s bar scene offers inventive cocktails in unique settings throughout various neighbourhoods.
For starters, Tei by Obond offers inventive cocktails in a unique setting—a Taiwanese tea room by day that transforms into a sophisticated bar after dark. Not to be missed are the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall gardens for some tranquil morning exploration, while the youth-favoured Songshan Creative Park pulses with creative energy.
Bali: wellness reset
Above Tourists at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud
Tourists at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud
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Bali offers the perfect restorative escape when you’re seeking genuine transformation. The Island of the Gods provides a meaningful change of pace. The 2026 wellness landscape emphasises deep, intentional experiences rather than surface-level relaxation.
Ubud offers thoughtfully designed wellness resorts and retreat packages that harmonise with the surrounding rice paddies, delivering authentic wellness experiences. Multiple establishments provide holistic healing deeply rooted in local tradition. These venues offer the ideal strategic reset to complement a busy working year, particularly when you’re ready for something distinctly different from city escapes.
Andrea Saadan is the Senior Digital Editor of Tatler Singapore. She oversees all digital content for the website and currently leads the Beauty and Lifestyle verticals. As a child, she had always enjoyed reading and writing but it was only after she joined her college newspaper, The Spectrum, in Buffalo, New York, that she considered a career in journalism. Her love for all things beauty started from the age of two—when she was caught playing with (and damaging) her mother’s YSL lipstick. On top of her day job, she is also an unpaid beauty consultant for friends and family. Besides make-up, her obsessions include the wizarding world of Harry Potter, podcasts, ice-cream, her walking pad and watching endless re-runs of The Office (US).
