6 lesser-known travel destinations that are just a short plane ride away
Broaden your horizons and explore these destinations for your next getaway
By Shazrina Shamsudin -
By now we’re all pretty much familiar with destinations like Japan, South Korea and Indonesia which have proven to be some of the popular vacation destinations amongst the masses. But in this case, if you’re looking for a more meaningful cultural experience sans the long plane ride, then you might want to check out some of these lesser-known spots in the Asia Pacific that are brimming with hidden heritage gems, historical sites, and thrilling adventures to widen your horizons.
Whether you’re staying at one of Marriott Bonvoy’s hotel brands or exploring local spots, ahead, we’ve gathered some countries that you should check out if you’re in for an unforgettable journey.
Located on the southernmost tip of Australia, Tasmania is a breathtaking spot that boasts some of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Where food is concerned, the small island state also has an enviable array of epicurean adventures, spanning miles of paddock-to-plate, farm-to-fork, and dive-to-dish dining concepts.
Suppose you’re interested in things like sampling vintages at award-winning vineyards or even indulging in fresh oysters, we recommend checking out Tasmania’s only certified Les Clefs d’Or concierge at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel.
Did you know that Sri Lanka is also one of the best places to check out if you’re planning to surf up some waves or even scuba diving? That’s not all, in fact, at Weligama which translates to “Sandy Village”, the spot has also made a name for itself for its rich heritage, culture and tea history.
If you’re interested in the latter, you can also immerse yourself in a unique firsthand experience at Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa where you’ll learn more about tea production. As part of the experience, you’ll also get to attend a white tea plucking session where you’ll get to discover how your favourite cup of Ceylon tea is brewed.
When in Cambodia, you have to visit the iconic Angkor Wat. Known as one of Asia’s most epic ruins, this site holds lots of cultural, religious and symbolic values, and not to mention, high architectural, archaeological and artistic significance.
The best way to explore the ancient maze of intricate stone buildings is through a bike tour, which brings one up close to exquisite carvings and humbling architecture that have stood the test of time.
There’s something about Vietnam that keeps many of us Singaporeans coming back for more. And for places like Hoi An, which is far away from the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, visitors can expect spots like the charming streets of the Ancient Town which will transport you into a different era.
Here, the quaint streets at the Ancient Town are lined with antique Chinese shophouses, vibrant French colonial buildings and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge – creating a charming old-world atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
The bustling streets of Mumbai are alive with art at every corner. From the vibrant murals of Bandra to contemporary works at the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery, each piece is a reflection of the city’s soul and rich cultural tapestry. To have a better insight into India’s art scene, you can also sign up for a tour at The St. Regis Mumbai which boasts a private collection of over 100 works, including an inspired mural of the city’s Art Deco stretch by award-winning artist G.R. Iranna.
Looking for a quick respite? Look no further than the Fari Islands in the Maldives.
Aside from its crystal-clear waters, pristine white-sand beaches and lush greenery, the Maldives is also home to a thriving ecosystem of the region’s unique flora and fauna. Here, you can immerse yourself in different experiences like snorkelling, visiting the rehabilitation centres for the critically endangered Seven Hawksbill turtle, embark on educational excursions and more.