We’ve curated a list of last-minute getaways to inspire your holiday bucket list.
With the upcoming holiday close approaching, we’ve rounded up the top destinations to inspire your vacay plans, from island and city breaks, to hiking in the mountains and relaxing by the ocean. We have you covered.
The Maldives
Located within The Atollia, a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives promises an elegant island experience which is perfect for the long weekend. With overwater villas and residences available, all with a private pool or jacuzzi, this is the perfect resort to unwind and switch off.
While you’re there, make sure to pamper yourself at the tranquil SPA Cenvaree Retreat which has plenty of holistic wellness offerings. For those looking for a bit more activity, there are a number of water sports and excursions on your doorstep. Not to mention the delicious dining options available, from international cuisines at The Gallery as well as Mediterranean delights at Bluefin. For lighter bites try Coco Drift’s swim up bar. Discover more.
Looking for a postcard-perfect Maldives escape without a luxury price tag, Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is a rare find that balances great value with natural beauty. It’s just 20 to 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it one of the most accessible resorts in North Malé. The island offers a grounded, easy-going experience that focuses on what the Maldives does best; clear water, soft sand, and plenty of space to relax and switch off.
With 202 air-conditioned villas, mostly beachfront, with one section of overwater options. The Beach Villas are simple and comfortable, featuring outdoor showers and direct beach access for a truly relaxing experience. There is an all-inclusive offering to keep costs at bay and the main Banya Restaurant has a scrumptious buffet with a mix of Maldivian flavours. Discover more.
Sri Lanka
Tucked away on Sri Lanka’s quiet east coast, Sun Siyam Pasikudah offers a relaxed kind of luxury. With 34 pavilions tucked among coconut palms and facing one of the country’s calmest beaches, it’s a stay designed for unwinding. Whether you choose to cool off in your own private plunge pool, take a dip in the sea, or savour a slow lunch soaking up the view, it’s a place where time loses importance.
With suites and pavilions that range from garden and ocean views to two-bedroom grand beach pavilions with a private pool and butler service there is something for everyone. Food is a highlight here, with fine Japanese cuisine and traditional dishes alike prepared using the finest local produce in the four on-site restaurants. The Kitchen serves home cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner and a small but great all-inclusive menu. Sun Siyam Pasikudah is the ideal balance of comfort and culture, exactly what you need over a long weekend. Discover more.
Salalah
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is known for its frankincense groves and combination of Omani heritage and modern comforts. Just 25-minutes from the airport, the stunning resort is ideal for a peaceful and relaxing getaway with beautiful views of the ocean. We recommend that you stay in one of the villas with a private, temperature-controlled pool for the perfect balance of privacy and relaxation.
With a couple of cute options for dining when you’re there, from a buffet breakfast at Salalan, a beachside Mediterranean restaurant called La Mina and Mekong is ideal for a vibrant Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese culinary experience. With an onsite spa with numerous relaxing treatments on offer, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is really the perfect rest bite for the long weekend. Discover more.
Georgia
Rooms Hotel Kazbegi offers stunning views of the surrounding woodlands and means you can spend your evenings under the stars. The hotel is all about the view. From the broad terrace that stretches the length of the Rooms complex, you always have the best seats in the house for the mighty Kazbegi mountain. With warm tones and contemporary furnishings, it makes for the ideal mountain hideaway.
A more active break for sure, with hikes and walks on your doorstep, as well as hot springs, you can enjoy every bit of nature. The inhouse restaurant pays homage to classic Georgian cuisine and dishes are a celebration of local, seasonal produce. There is also an indoor heated pool with mountain views to enjoy laps in during your time there. Discover more.
Bangkok
The Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok offers a true five-star experience, from the house Mercedes to the helipad up on the roof. This trip is one to add to your bucket list and is a favourite to jet-setting travellers across the globe.
The hotel is also home to the Erawan Spa Cottages, a cluster of resort-style villa suites that all face gardens for a tranquil experience. With rain showers, huge bathtubs, free-flowing cocktails and a personal spa concierge, you’re never going to want to leave. We’ve also heard that their Sunday brunch is one of the best in the city! Discover more.
Discover: Travel inspiration for the National Day long weekend
