7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Da Lat Vietnam 3hr Flight with Return Fares from $220 on Vietjet Air

Da Lat in Vietnam is increasingly becoming a popular destination for a short getaway from Singapore, with budget airline VietJet offering return flights for as little as $220. The flight time is a convenient three hours, making it ideal for a long weekend trip. Da Lat's reputation for a pleasant climate and scenic beauty draws many visitors. The city offers a tranquil ambiance, surrounded by charming landscapes that make it a picturesque getaway. VietJet offers several flights daily to Da Lat International Airport, making travel planning relatively easy, regardless of your preferred departure time. You can find a balance between exploring the city's unique cuisine and enjoying its captivating natural environment, making Da Lat a rewarding destination for a short trip from Singapore. While it's a smaller airport, connectivity seems decent with VietJet dominating the routes. Though you can also fly other carriers like Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways, the focus on VietJet is due to their pricing.

Da Lat, Vietnam, presents an intriguing possibility for a quick escape from Singapore. With Vietjet Air providing a significant portion of the flight connectivity, it's not surprising that this destination has risen in popularity. From Singapore, it's a relatively short 3-hour journey to Da Lat International Airport (DLI).

Interestingly, Vietjet seems to have established a dominant position with 4 routes serving Da Lat, and the sheer volume of flights, averaging around 13 per day, hints at a strong demand. However, it's not the only airline flying to Da Lat, as Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways also provide options, potentially influencing prices and flight schedules. The flight pricing, while seemingly attractive, varies quite a bit with fares from as low as $32 for a one-way ticket from Ho Chi Minh City (which requires a connecting flight from Singapore) all the way up to a typical round trip starting at $220 from Singapore. This fluctuation can be challenging to predict, making the pre-booking strategy crucial to ensure the best possible deal.

Vietjet has garnered a respectable 91% positive feedback from its travelers, a metric that provides some level of reassurance about their operational standards. Yet, as with any airline, it's always advisable to carefully check traveler reviews and flight details.

The allure of Da Lat lies in its captivating landscape and cool climate, quite unlike the typical tropical heat of Southeast Asia. The city, at an elevation of 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), showcases a unique architectural style rooted in its French colonial past, including notable structures like the "Crazy House". The local culinary experiences, too, offer a diverse and interesting selection of flavors with local specialities like grilled meats and rice pancakes. Da Lat is also famous for its flower and vegetable production, showcasing the regions agricultural prowess at festivals like the Da Lat Flower Festival. The combination of all these factors makes Da Lat an attractive, yet still somewhat off-the-radar destination, ideal for an extended weekend trip.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Da Lat Vietnam 3hr Flight with Return Fares from $220 on Vietjet Air
2. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Sihanoukville Cambodia Direct Flights on Singapore Airlines with Empty Beaches
3. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Yogyakarta Indonesia Ancient Temples and $30 per Night Hotels
4. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Semporna Malaysia Scuba Paradise with New 2024 Dive Sites
5. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Khao Sok Thailand National Park Luxury Treehouses at Lake Cheow Lan
6. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Lombok Indonesia Waterfalls and Mountain Hikes Beyond Tourist Areas
7. 7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Khanh Hoa Vietnam New Direct Flight Route Starting December 2024

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Sihanoukville Cambodia Direct Flights on Singapore Airlines with Empty Beaches

Sihanoukville in Cambodia is a growing destination for travelers seeking a quick and peaceful escape from Singapore. Direct flights with Singapore Airlines are now available, offering one-way fares starting around $123, making it a relatively affordable option for a short trip. The city has a reputation for less crowded beaches, offering a tranquil experience compared to more popular destinations within the region. Sihanoukville Airport (KOS), the third largest in Cambodia, has become a hub with a good number of flight connections including a significant number of services to Siem Reap. This relatively well-connected airport allows for a straightforward travel experience. With several flights departing daily from Sihanoukville, the city has the potential to be a great choice for a short weekend getaway, especially for those who want a relaxed experience in a place that's not overwhelmed by tourism. For travelers looking for a quiet beach escape within a short flight time from Singapore, Sihanoukville is a very compelling choice.

Sihanoukville, located on Cambodia's coast, is gaining traction as a travel destination, especially for those seeking a quick escape from Singapore. With Singapore Airlines now offering direct flights to Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), a relatively new and modernized airport, reaching this coastal hub is easier and faster than ever before.

Interestingly, despite the airport's expansion and increased connectivity, the city seems to offer a more tranquil beach experience compared to other Southeast Asian beach destinations. While Sihanoukville Airport is Cambodia's third largest airport and serves four destinations with two airlines, the number of daily flights is still relatively low at around three per day on average, with the majority going to Siem Reap. This relatively low flight frequency could be a contributing factor to the quieter, more relaxed atmosphere of Sihanoukville's beaches.

However, with fares as low as $106 for a roundtrip flight from Singapore, the destination offers a compelling value proposition, especially for travelers looking for budget-friendly options. Flights from Sihanoukville back to Singapore can also be found for as little as $123 one-way. These surprisingly low fares hint at the developing nature of Sihanoukville as a tourism destination.


The airport, however, doesn't just serve short-haul destinations. The longest direct flight from Sihanoukville takes around 11.75 hours to Yekaterinburg, Russia, covering an impressive distance of 2,433 miles. This unexpected international connection underscores a growing interest in developing Sihanoukville as a potential hub for a wider regional reach.

Beyond the beach, Sihanoukville offers a distinct culinary scene, blending Khmer flavors with the bounty of the sea. The city's proximity to islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem also presents a unique opportunity to explore relatively untouched ecosystems, which might attract travelers interested in a more adventurous and ecologically focused experience.

The overall climate of Sihanoukville is tropical, offering relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. However, with humidity being a factor, it's worth considering the ideal travel times. The months between November and February are generally seen as more pleasant for travelers, with less rainfall and slightly lower humidity.

Finally, the range of accommodation options in Sihanoukville reflects the still-developing nature of its tourism infrastructure. While not quite a luxury destination yet, it offers a spectrum of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels, catering to a varied range of travel styles.

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Yogyakarta Indonesia Ancient Temples and $30 per Night Hotels

Yogyakarta, Indonesia, often referred to as Jogja, is a fantastic destination brimming with ancient history and culture. It's particularly well-known for its remarkable temples, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Borobudur and Prambanan. Borobudur, a massive Buddhist structure, is considered the world's largest of its kind and a testament to Indonesia's rich history. Prambanan, built in the 9th century, is dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, and its hundreds of intricately designed temples are truly captivating.

The city is remarkably accessible from Singapore, with flight times comfortably under three hours, making it perfect for a long weekend escape. Beyond the historical highlights, Yogyakarta also offers a deep dive into the cultural fabric of Indonesia, encompassing everything from the traditional craft of batik to local art forms and performances. Another unexpected perk is the extremely affordable hotel options you can find here, with rooms available from as little as $30 per night.

While it's a destination that arguably deserves more attention, Yogyakarta remains a relatively under-the-radar option for weekend getaways from Singapore, offering a blend of history, culture, and incredibly budget-friendly travel. If you're looking for a short and enriching escape with a chance to experience something different, it's definitely worth considering.

### Yogyakarta, Indonesia: Ancient Temples and Budget-Friendly Stays

Yogyakarta, often shortened to Jogja or Yogya, holds a special place in Indonesian history and culture. It's renowned for its two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the monumental Borobudur and Prambanan temples. Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple, is a remarkable feat of engineering with over 2 million intricately arranged stone blocks. Prambanan, a 9th-century Hindu temple complex dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, boasts over 200 individual temples. It exemplifies the distinct "Kahuripan" architectural style, with its ornate carvings depicting the Ramayana epic.

Getting to Yogyakarta is fairly easy from Singapore with flights averaging around 2.5 hours. Several budget carriers like AirAsia and Lion Air regularly ply the route, with fares occasionally dipping as low as $40 one-way. This makes it a very attractive option for a quick getaway.

Beyond the historical attractions, Yogyakarta has a vibrant culinary scene. One standout is Gudeg, a local specialty featuring slow-cooked young jackfruit in coconut milk and spices. Interestingly, this dish provides a balanced nutritional profile, low in fat and high in fiber, a point perhaps overlooked by many tourists.

Accommodation is generally budget-friendly, with comfortable hotels readily available from around $30 per night. Some establishments even incorporate traditional Javanese design elements, adding to the cultural experience.

The construction of both Borobudur and Prambanan aligns with historical periods of advanced engineering. The temples reveal interesting insights into the building techniques of the Sailendra and Mataram dynasties, using 'dry masonry' in the case of Prambanan. Scientists are also studying the local materials used, as it seems the construction methods had relatively minimal environmental impact for the period.


Both temples are primarily made of highly durable volcanic stone, which has contributed significantly to their resilience against the elements. Their locations, though historically strategic, also provide an unexpected bonus for travelers interested in astronomy. Yogyakarta is far enough from major cities to provide relatively low levels of light pollution, offering great conditions for stargazing.

The region also boasts a rich cultural calendar with events like the Sekaten Festival. This annual celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birth draws huge crowds and offers a unique glimpse into the blend of Javanese and Islamic traditions.

Borobudur's accessibility is another highlight. Located a mere hour away from Yogyakarta, it's easily reached by bus or car, making it a perfect day trip option when exploring the historical heritage of this region.

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Semporna Malaysia Scuba Paradise with New 2024 Dive Sites

Semporna in Malaysia is rapidly gaining popularity as a prime scuba diving destination, especially with the addition of new dive sites in 2024. It's already famous for incredible dive spots like Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai, known worldwide for their vibrant marine life and healthy coral reefs. This area is a magnet for divers, attracting both experienced and novice enthusiasts alike. Semporna town itself is a center for PADI-certified diving centers, making it convenient to find a range of courses and guided dives. Many tour operators provide multi-day dive packages that include trips to nearby islands, meals, and even accommodation, which can be quite attractive for a quick vacation.

Getting to Semporna is also pretty straightforward with flights into Tawau Airport, followed by a roughly 1-hour 15-minute taxi ride to town. Flight prices can be surprisingly affordable, particularly during peak seasons like August, with advance booking sometimes yielding fares as low as $204. If you’re looking for an adventurous yet relaxing getaway, Semporna blends exciting diving with the allure of pristine white sand beaches and incredibly clear waters, making it a perfect choice for a short escape from Singapore. Despite its appeal, it remains a somewhat undiscovered jewel for travelers, making it an intriguing alternative to more well-trodden Southeast Asian destinations.

Semporna, nestled in the Malaysian state of Sabah, has established itself as a scuba diving mecca, particularly renowned for its iconic dive sites like Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai. These locations are celebrated for their vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, offering a captivating underwater experience. Notably, Semporna is poised to expand its diving appeal further in 2024 with the introduction of new dive sites, promising unexplored underwater landscapes and perhaps even the discovery of novel marine species.

Beyond the allure of diving, Semporna offers a quintessential tropical getaway. Picture pristine white-sand beaches, the turquoise embrace of crystal-clear waters, and an array of tropical islands—a tempting combination for divers and beach lovers alike. This relatively small town serves as a convenient hub for PADI-certified dive centers, which offer everything from beginner training to guided excursions for seasoned divers. Many dive operators provide multi-day packages that often include accommodation and meals, simplifying the planning process.

One of the most popular dive locations, Sipadan Island, had been temporarily closed for conservation but has since reopened, allowing divers to once again marvel at its extraordinary underwater ecosystem. This remarkable site is well-known for its abundance of marine biodiversity, providing ample opportunities to encounter rare species. Reaching Semporna is fairly straightforward, with Tawau Airport serving as the closest major airport, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes by taxi. It's encouraging to observe how airline competition is impacting flight costs, with potential for discounted flights to Semporna reaching as low as $204 during peak season (particularly in August) when booked well in advance. While peak seasons are likely going to create peak prices as well, options exist for various types of tourists. Some packages are more attractive for smaller groups and solo travelers, reflecting a trend of catering to niche travel interests in the area.

Interestingly, despite Semporna's exceptional diving offerings and stunning natural beauty, it remains somewhat underappreciated as a travel destination for those from Singapore. However, with a four-hour flight making it conveniently accessible, it's a destination that could quickly gain traction given the abundance of diverse marine life and new dive sites. Given its strategic location in the region and the growing airline connectivity, it is conceivable that Semporna could quickly develop as a premier diving destination for a larger pool of travelers.

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Khao Sok Thailand National Park Luxury Treehouses at Lake Cheow Lan

Nestled within Thailand's Surat Thani province, Khao Sok National Park provides a rather unique escape, particularly with its luxurious treehouses perched high within the rainforest and the breathtaking views of Cheow Lan Lake. This artificial lake, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, creates a tranquil setting for various outdoor pursuits like guided nature tours and kayaking expeditions. The park's Tree House Resort features treehouses that can be as high as 15 meters, truly immersing you in nature. They even offer a large, two-story treehouse that could accommodate an entire family. Furthermore, the floating bungalows situated on Cheow Lan Lake provide an even more tranquil and secluded experience for those wanting to really disconnect.

For travelers looking for an unusual weekend trip from Singapore, Khao Sok offers a very compelling option. With a diversity of lodging and activities, Khao Sok is fast becoming a popular choice for travelers who enjoy a blend of comfortable travel and the chance to reconnect with nature.

Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani Province, a few hours north of Phuket, Thailand, offers a unique blend of natural wonders and innovative accommodation options. It's home to one of the world's oldest rainforests, dating back over 160 million years, providing a glimpse into the incredible resilience of ecosystems over time.

Central to the park's landscape is Cheow Lan Lake, a massive 185 square kilometer reservoir created in the 1980s. This artificial lake is a testament to human engineering's ability to dramatically reshape a region. The park is also characterized by towering limestone cliffs, some reaching an impressive 960 meters high, which contribute significantly to the local climate and the varied ecosystems found within the park.

The local resort offers treehouse accommodations, built with a focus on using materials sourced from the surrounding environment. This type of architecture perfectly illustrates how buildings in remote areas can be designed to seamlessly blend with nature. It's a striking departure from the intrusive construction often seen in other tourist areas.

The rainforest's biodiversity is quite impressive. It provides a refuge for over 300 bird species, including the rare Great Argus and Bulbul, making it a vital location for ornithologists. Wildlife is equally abundant with over 50 mammal species including elusive creatures like the Malayan sun bear and the Asian elephant. These endangered species highlight the importance of this region for wildlife conservation.

Geologically, the region is a study in karst landscapes—created by millions of years of erosion—resulting in the stunning geological formations that have attracted visitors for years. Guests at the treehouses can enjoy canoeing on Cheow Lan Lake, gaining a different perspective on the topography and the unique geological features.

The local cuisine features traditional Thai dishes which are closely linked to the region's agriculture and take advantage of locally-sourced fruits and herbs. And, of course, the treehouses themselves are fascinating from an engineering perspective. They are often built on stilts or nestled into trees, requiring designs that withstand the heavy monsoon rains while still providing comfort and a sense of luxury.

Khao Sok, with its easy access from neighboring countries, including Singapore, provides a unique and rewarding travel experience. Its ancient rainforests, unique accommodations, and remarkable biodiversity make it a hidden gem for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination that still delivers a level of luxury.

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Lombok Indonesia Waterfalls and Mountain Hikes Beyond Tourist Areas

Lombok, an Indonesian island, presents a fantastic opportunity to explore waterfalls and hike in the mountains beyond the usual tourist hotspots. The island's natural beauty is truly captivating, offering a welcome change of pace from more crowded destinations.

Southwest of Mount Rinjani National Park lies Benang Stokel, a double waterfall that's a relatively easy hike from the entrance. If you prefer a swim after your hike, head north to Tiu Teja Waterfall, near the foothills of Mount Rinjani. The climb is a bit longer, but you'll be rewarded with a refreshing swim at the base of this 40-50 meter tall cascade.

Looking for something different? Central Lombok's Tetebatu rice fields hide the unique Sarang Walet Waterfall. The hike leads through a moody slot canyon with bamboo bridges and follows the river to the falls. It's a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the beauty of Lombok's nature.

For a more adventurous challenge, Mount Rinjani awaits. As Indonesia's second-highest volcano, it will push your limits during a two-day climb, rewarding you with spectacular views from the top and the unique beauty of Segara Anak, a lake in the volcano's caldera.


If you're looking for a quick escape from Singapore that's different from the norm, consider Lombok. It’s a relatively easy hop from Singapore and the chance to explore waterfalls and mountains, away from the crowds, makes it an exciting and refreshing alternative.

Lombok, an Indonesian island, offers a compelling alternative to the more popular Bali, especially for those seeking serene natural beauty and adventurous hikes. It's a location that has shaped a unique landscape and features intriguing geographical aspects:

Firstly, Lombok's geological formations, particularly its waterfalls and mountains, are relatively young compared to many other regions globally. This is largely due to the volcanic activity stemming from the imposing Mount Rinjani, its highest peak, which last had a significant eruption in 2010. This creates a dynamic landscape with a distinct, relatively recent origin, making the area a fascinating subject of geological study.

Furthermore, Lombok's abundant waterfalls, such as Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile, are a direct consequence of its fascinating hydrological network. Multiple streams converge, leading to the spectacular cascading effects we admire in these waterfalls. The sheer volume of water generated in these unique systems provides quite a dramatic effect.

Lombok exhibits a significant variation in elevation, with Mount Rinjani reaching 3,726 meters, which not only impacts local weather patterns but also creates a rich tapestry of diverse ecosystems. The differences in elevation translate into a range of climates, allowing for unique plants and animals to flourish in very localized environments.

Interestingly, the impressive waterfalls in Lombok are believed to hold considerable hydropower potential. While still largely untapped, experts estimate they could generate a significant amount of electricity if harnessed effectively. This potentially represents an intriguing alternative energy source for the island, currently in an underutilized state.

Beyond their natural beauty, these waterfalls also hold deep cultural significance. The local Sasak population attaches spiritual value to a number of Lombok's waterfalls, using them as a backdrop for traditional cleansing rituals. Tiu Kelep, for example, is considered a site for spiritual renewal, showcasing how natural features integrate seamlessly into local customs.

While Lombok features well-maintained hiking trails to Mount Rinjani catering to various levels of hikers and ecological sensitivity, many lesser-known trails are still relatively primitive. These routes provide an exciting challenge for adventurous hikers who are looking for a more rugged experience beyond the established routes. The contrast of carefully planned and maintained trails and barely trodden paths provides a significant variance in experience for different hikers.

Lombok's mountainous terrain, especially regions with significant rainfall, are vital biodiversity hotspots, harboring over 200 bird species. These include rare species like the Javan Hawk-Eagle. This concentration of birdlife highlights the importance of the area for wildlife preservation.

Due to Lombok's topography and altitude shifts, the climate can fluctuate dramatically within short distances while hiking. It's not uncommon for a hike to begin in warmer conditions only to transition to noticeably cooler temperatures as elevation increases. This unpredictability requires proper planning and preparation, adding a unique dimension to the outdoor experiences.

The island boasts an impressive array of plant life, including many plants endemic to the region. The Rinjani Edelweiss, a striking floral species, for instance, thrives only in very specific high-altitude environments, emphasizing the regional variation of plant life.

Finally, a significant benefit of trekking through Lombok is the opportunity to encounter traditional cuisine in local villages. These culinary experiences are heavily influenced by the readily available local ingredients, providing a flavor profile unique to the specific location. The biodiversity of the region is reflected in the regional variations of the food, making it an unexpected delight after an invigorating hike.


Overall, Lombok's mix of impressive natural landscapes, significant cultural heritage, and diverse flora and fauna presents a compelling travel option for both the adventurous hiker and those interested in understanding the more nuanced details of Indonesian cultural heritage and natural ecosystems.

7 Underrated Long Weekend Getaways from Singapore Under 4 Hours Flight Time - Khanh Hoa Vietnam New Direct Flight Route Starting December 2024

Starting in December 2024, travelers will have a new option to reach Khanh Hoa, Vietnam, with a direct flight from South Jeolla province in South Korea. Donghai Airlines will operate this new route, offering three round-trip flights each week, significantly boosting travel options for those hoping to visit this region. The main target for this new route appears to be Cam Ranh, a popular beach destination located near Nha Trang. This area is already incredibly popular with South Koreans, as over 1.5 million visitors from Korea alone traveled there in the first nine months of 2024.

Khanh Hoa seems to be strategically investing in boosting tourism with this new direct connection. They have bigger plans to further improve connectivity and potentially expand their reach into new markets with proposed routes from Poland and even Saint Petersburg in the future. The increased focus on international tourism reflects a positive outlook for the Khanh Hoa tourism sector. Whether or not these plans will actually see fruition is a separate question, but the increased activity and a noticeable push from the local government suggest it is a very real goal. It remains to be seen whether this new route will make Khanh Hoa a more viable option for quick trips from Singapore. For now, it appears as a promising, but yet to be realized, travel option for those seeking to explore an area in Vietnam that is not yet on most people's radar. With improved air connections and infrastructure, it's likely that this destination will only become more attractive to tourists in the years to come.


Beginning in December 2024, a new direct flight route to Khanh Hoa in Vietnam will likely increase tourism and business connections, primarily for Nha Trang and neighboring coastal areas. Khanh Hoa, situated on Vietnam's south-central coast, experiences a tropical climate with an average annual temperature around 26 degrees Celsius. This consistently warm weather makes it appealing year-round, especially during the drier months from mid-January through August.

Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR), which serves the region, has been upgraded significantly to handle the expected rise in passenger volume, with a target capacity increase to 4 million travelers annually. Khanh Hoa boasts a local cuisine strongly tied to seafood, showcasing dishes like "Bún chả cá" and "Nem nướng." Nha Trang's food scene is a blend of local flavors, making use of fresh ingredients from the nearby sea.

The area's history dates back to the Champa Kingdom, with sites like the Po Nagar Cham Towers, built between the 7th and 12th centuries, providing insight into the region's cultural past. The waters surrounding Khanh Hoa, particularly Nha Trang Bay, boast a diverse marine ecosystem with over 350 coral species and 800 fish varieties. This has drawn marine researchers and scuba divers alike.

With new direct flight options, Khanh Hoa tourism authorities hope to substantially increase visitor numbers beyond the current yearly average of 7.5 million, especially from Southeast Asia and beyond, aiming for a considerable increase by 2030. The area also holds a few notable events, such as the Nha Trang Sea Festival, which highlights the local arts and culture, attracting both local and international tourists.

Khanh Hoa provides a jumping-off point for a number of islands such as Hon Tre and Hon Mun. Those looking for a more diverse travel experience could consider adding island-hopping trips to their itinerary to encounter untouched shorelines and the rich marine environment. As more airlines introduce routes to Khanh Hoa, travelers might see increased opportunities to leverage frequent flyer programs and promotional fares, potentially making it a more cost-effective getaway. It remains to be seen how the increased flight connectivity will impact prices in the long run.