Want a short getaway to a cold country but have limited annual leave? Let these places in Southeast Asia be your inspo for your next trip!
Best Travel Insurance: TIQ Travel Insurance | MSIG TravelEasy | Allianz Travel Insurance | Ergo TravelProtect | Singlife Travel Insurance | Sompo Travel Insurance | Tokio Marine Travel Insurance | Allied World Travel Insurance | Starr Travel Insurance | FWD Travel Insurance | AIG Travel Guard
Best Travel Credit Cards: Citi PremierMiles Card | UOB PRVI Miles Card | OCBC 90°N Card | KrisFlyer UOB Card | American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend | DBS Altitude Visa Card | Citi Rewards Card | HSBC Revolution Card | UOB Lady's Card | UOB Lady's Solitaire Card | OCBC Titanium Rewards Card | DBS Woman's World Card
Ah, Singapore, the land of perpetual summer, where the words "sweater weather" are practically foreign concepts. If you've ever wondered whether you took a wrong turn into an endless sauna, you're in good company.
But the reality is that not every one of us can afford to take a plane down under to relish in the cold temperature, while some of us may have limited annual leaves to take.
If that is you, fret not. There are actually places you can visit in Southeast Asia that experience cool weather all year round, where your sweaters can finally be taken out of your wardrobe. Here’s a list of the best places you can visit the avoid the heat for a short getaway, even if it's just for a couple of days.
Table of contents
See also:
Cheapest Flights to Popular Destinations
10 Most Affordable Holiday Destinations for Singaporeans 2023
7 Affordable Grad Trip Travel Destinations Below S$800
Revenge Travel: 16 Top Travel Tips To Satisfy Your Wanderlust
1. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Source: Shutterstock
If you’ve got a few days of annual leave to spare, and don’t want to travel too far but can’t stand the sweltering heat, then we have the perfect place for you.
Cue Cameron Highlands, located at the tip of Pahang, featuring cool weather all year round. You can expect the weather to range between 17 to 26 degrees Celcius. Why? As the name suggests, it’s situated on high ground, between 800 to 1,600 metres above sea level.
Cameron Highlands is great for nature lovers, offering endless luscious greens where you can hike in comfortable weather at Mossy Forest on Mount Brinchang, go strawberry-picking in Tringkap and pick tea leaves at the Bharat Tea Plantation.
Average temperature: 20° Celsius
2. Baguio, Philippines
Source: Shutterstock
Known as the summer capital of the Philippines, Baguio was awarded with its title because it is one of the coldest places you can find in Southeast Asia, boasting temperatures between 18 to 20 degrees all year round.
As the city of arts, it hosts the annual Baguio Arts Festival and is known for its numerous artistic works and gorgeous architecture. It is even home to the majestic Mount Cabuyao, standing over 2,000 metres above sea level.
Be sure to visit Burnham Park, where you can enjoy the greens and glistening lake, as well as the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, sporting a rose-hue exterior.
Planning for a trip soon? Be sure to purchase a reliable travel insurance plan to quell your worries!
Average temperature: 18° Celsius
Read these next:
Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans (2023)
Best Travel Insurance In Singapore (2023)
Best-Priced Travel Insurance: FWD, Starr, Singlife, Allied World
Best Travel Insurance Singapore for Adventure Seekers
Best Travel Insurance Plans for Thailand
3. Tagaytay City, Phillipines
Source: Shutterstock
Located near the capital of the Phillipines, Manila, Tagaytay City is a place you shouldn’t miss if you want to keep cool during the hot summer months. Boasting temperatures between 22 and 25 degrees, you wouldn’t need to wear too many layers of clothing here.
It’s known for its breathtaking scenic views, including the famous Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. There are also many photo spots strewn all over the island to take pictures of the awe-inspiring landscape, making this a haven for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Beyond that, Tagaytay also offers a wide range of activities. From zip-lining, horseback riding and hiking in the nearby mountains to indulging in spa treatments, the place caters to all kinds of travellers and their varying interests.
Average temperature: 25° Celsius
Singlife Travel Insurance Promotion:
Annual Trip: Use promo code ANNUAL25 to get 25% off Annual Trip plans when you buy now. Valid till 31 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
Also receive:
- Up to S$70 Lazada voucher. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
- S$20 Paynow for Annual trip plans. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
- an Apple AirTag worth S$45. Valid till 8 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
- A chance to win a year's worth of free flights or up to S$160,000 in rewards. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
4. Sapa, Vietnam
Source: Shutterstock
Sitting at around 1,500 metres above sea level, Sapa is another place that enjoys cold weather all year round, ranging between 17 to 21 degrees Celsius between March and May. If you’re a nature-lover, you’ll be thrilled to know that Sapa sports abundant terrace rice fields, lush valleys and mist-shrouded hills.
Relish in the fresh, cool air as you hike or trek along the picturesque trails, littered with quaint villages, magnificent waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Do it yourself or participate in hotel-led ones that may even require overnight stays in the various villages.
Sapa is also rich in culture, as its multi-ethnic population consists of the Hmong, Dao, Tay, and Giay, who bring so much culture to the table with their distinct traditions, clothing, and crafts. Be sure to drop by Cat Cat Village, home to the Hmong people that promises an eye-opening experience!
Average temperature: 17° Celsius
SingSaver's Exclusive FWD Promotion: Use the promo code FWDTRAVEL to get a 30% discount on Single Trip plans and 25% discount on Annual Trip plans! Valid till 14 December 2024. T&Cs apply. Also receive:
- Up to S$40 Lazada vouchers for Annual trip plans. Limited quantities available. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
- Apple Airtag. Valid till 19 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
- S$20 Paynow for Annual trip plans. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
- A chance to win a year's worth of free flights or up to S$160,000 in rewards. Valid till 30 December 2024 5:30 pm. T&Cs apply.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Source: Shutterstock
Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand and is known for its rich cultural and historical elements that exude rustic charm.
Lying at the heart of Chiang Mai is its historical old city, complete with ancient walls and moats, where you can relish the magnificent views of their temples. Some of those include Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. While you’re there, be sure to partake in their religious festivals and rituals to get a glimpse of their vibrant culture.
You can also find an abundance of night markets and artisan villages where you can purchase handmade crafts like wood carvings, textiles, clothes and knick-knacks, offering the best place for souvenir shopping.
The best part of all? Chiang Mai is situated on elevated ground, so it can get quite chilly at night. The temperature does become a little hotter during the summer, ranging from 23 to 32 degrees — so be sure to bring a cardigan with you!
Maximise the rewards you can earn on your overseas purchases with the Citi Rewards Card.
Average temperature: 27° Celsius
🪙SingSaver Cash Quest🪙: Get 10x chances to win S$50,000 when you apply for participating Credit Cards. Applying for multiple products means more Cash Quest Chances! Plus, download the SingSaver App and log in with the same email used during product application to earn 20 additional chances! Valid till 22 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
🎄SingSaver 12 Days of Credit Card Christmas🎄: Grab up to S$1,350 in cash when you stack up on credit card applications! Valid till 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
SingSaver Exclusive Offer: Receive the following rewards when you sign up for a Citi Credit Card:
🚀Fastest Rewards Fulfilment🚀: Get the cash rewards within four (4) weeks after successful application — the fastest rewards fulfilment yet! T&Cs apply
For Citi PremierMiles Card and Citi Prestige Card: Receive a Samsonite Straren Spinner 67/24 + 2X AirTag (worth S$690.80), an Apple iPad 9th Gen 10.9 wifi 64GB (worth S$508.30), 18K Heymax Miles, 50,000 Yuu Points or S$370 Cash upon activating and spending a minimum of S$500 within 30 days of card approval. This card offer is exclusively available on SingSaver. Valid until 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
Get an additional S$100 eCapitaVoucher when you simultaneously open a Citi Citigold Account. Valid until 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
Citi SMRT and M1 Cards: Receive a Dyson Micro 1.5kg Vacuum (worth S$599), an Apple iPad 9th Gen 10.9 wifi 64GB (worth S$508.30), an Apple AirPods Pro Gen 2 + Magsafe Charger (worth S$408), 50,000 Yuu Points, or S$370 Cash upon activating and spending a minimum of S$500 within 30 days of card approval. Valid until 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
Other Citi Credit Cards: Receive a Hinomi H1 Classic V3 Ergonomic Office Chair (With Headrest) (worth S$659), an Apple iPad 9th Gen 10.9 wifi 64GB (worth S$508.30), an Apple AirPods Pro Gen 2 + Magsafe Charger (worth S$408), 50,000 Yuu Points, or S$370 Cash upon activating and spending a minimum of S$500 within 30 days of card approval. Valid until 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
⬆️Reward Upgrade Campaign⬆️: Upgrade your rewards when you top specific amounts. Valid until 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
- S$100 for an Apple iPad 10th Gen 10.9 wifi 64GB (worth S$499)
- S$1,080 for a MacBook Air 13" 256GB M3 (worth S$1,599.00)
- S$1,200 for an Apple iPhone 16 Pro 256GB (worth S$1,1,749.00)
- S$1,586 for a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Titanium Gray 12+512GB 5G (worth S$2,128.00)
Read more:
Best Credit Cards For Post-Covid Travel
7 Best Credit Cards for Booking Flights and Hotels
Best Air Miles Credit Cards Singapore 2023
6 Ways To Maximise Your Credit Card Perks and Travel in Style
Credit Cards Which Give Free Access to Airport Lounges
6. Chiang Rai, Thailand
Source: Shutterstock
Not be confused with Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is also located in northern Thailand and can be worth a trip if you’re already planning on heading to Chiang Mai. They both share similar weather conditions, with a temperature between 23 to 32 degrees during June.
While you’re here, don’t miss out on the famous Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, featuring intricate designs of the Buddhist culture on the snow-white exterior. It also consists of mirror decorations and ornate reliefs, easily making it one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand.
vibrant markets and hill tribe villages, where you can take a peek into their rich culture and also shop for uniquely handcrafted souvenirs to take home as a memento.
If you’re a fan of street food, you’ll definitely want to visit The Night Bazaar and the Saturday Walking Street Market, where you can get a taste of Thailand’s iconic street snacks and shop for knick-knacks.
The Doi Tung Mountain and the Kok River are also sights you have to see, offering breathtaking views to soak in all of Mother Nature’s allure. To experience three cultures in one place, you’ll have to check out The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet.
Average temperature: 26° Celsius
🎄SingSaver 12 Days of Credit Card Christmas🎄: Grab up to S$1,350 in cash when you stack up on credit card applications! Valid till 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
SingSaver Exclusive Offer: Enjoy the following rewards when you sign up for an HSBC credit card.
Get a Dyson SSHD 15 (worth S$699), a Dyson Micro 1.5kg Vacuum (worth S$599), S$199 Cash + S$200 eCapitaVoucher, S$400 eCapitaVoucher, a FLUJO SmarTrax Standing Desk (worth S$739), or 20,000 Heymax Miles upon activating and spending min. S$500 by end of the following calendar month from the card account opening date. HSBC TravelOne Card applicants must also pay the annual fee of S$196.20 (incl. GST). Valid till 20 December 2024. T&Cs apply.
7. Wonosobo, Indonesia
Source: Shutterstock
If you’re a huge fan of the outdoors and pretty views, Wonosobo is the place to be at. During the months of June to September, the weather typically ranges between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect place for a short getaway.
One of the main places of interest here is the Dieng Plateau, an upland volcanic plain that is home to a collection of small ancient Hindu temples and is a place of cultural significance. Look forward to unmatched views of sulphurous springs at Sikidang Crater and the vibrant Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon twin lakes.
If you're itching for a hike, you can climb up Mount Sindoro, standing at 3,150m or Mount Sumbing, standing at 3,371m, which are both equally as rewarding once you conquer them. If you ever feel like giving up, just remember that the views at the peak will all be worthwhile.
Aside from hiking, you can also drop by to see the Candi Umbul Temple and the Curug Lawe waterfall.
Average temperature: 24° Celsius
8. Cipanas, Indonesia
Source: Shutterstock
Cipanas is located in West Java, Indonesia, and is known for its natural beauty and cool climate. Offering temperatures of 18 to 24 degrees during the months of June to August, it serves as a peaceful and cooling respite away from the summer heat.
Just like Singapore’s Istana, Cipanas also has its own Presidential house of their known, commonly known as the Cipanas Presidential Palace or Istana Cipana, where you can get a taste of their political heritage and history.
Soak your worries away in one of Cipanas’ hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Check out the Cipanas Hot Springs or the Ciater Hot Springs full of minerals to reduce stress and detox your body amidst the natural surroundings.
If you’re an outdoor junkie, head over to the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, which has various trekking trails offering unparalleled views of the stunning landscape, including magnificent waterfalls like the Cibeureum Waterfall, and lush greenery.
Average temperature: 24° Celsius
Similar articles
Long Weekend Getaways From Singapore In 2023 For Budget-Friendly Travel
The Best Countries to Work Remotely On a Budget
8 Unique & Novel Travel Experiences You Have To Try At Least Once
The Top 10 Destinations Singaporeans Will Be Travelling In 2024 (Including Best Times to Book Flights)
5 Travel Destinations Where You Can Escape The Summer Heat
A Guide to Cherry Blossom Season in Japan – When and Where to View Sakura Blossoms 2023
10 Most Beautiful Places and Beach Destinations in Asia (and the Best Times to Visit)
Best Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations In Asia (2023)