Living in Singapore, I often crave a quick change of scenery without hopping on a plane. So one Saturday morning, I decided to head across the Causeway for a short trip to Johor Bahru. I left home around 7:30am, grabbed a coffee, and took a bus from Kranji MRT straight to Woodlands Checkpoint. The entire journey took less than two hours, even with the queues.

In this article I’ll break down 12 places worth to visit for a mini break from Singapore. From Johor Bahru, Malacca, to Krabi Island, you’ll find it amazing. Here is the detail!

My first stop in JB, Malaysia was breakfast at Restoran Kin Wah. The kaya toast and kopi were the perfect start to my day. After that, I explored City Square Mall, which is right near the checkpoint. I love browsing the shops there and picking up snacks and toiletries at Guardian and Watsons since they’re often cheaper than in Singapore.

For lunch, I treated myself to a huge bowl of bak kut teh at Soon Huat. Rich broth, tender pork ribs—it totally hit the spot. In the afternoon, I got a foot massage at Thai Odyssey (inside R&F Mall). The therapist was amazing, and I felt so refreshed afterwards.

I wrapped up my trip with some grocery shopping at KSL City Mall and bought salted egg chips and local tidbits to bring home. I returned to Singapore before 6 pm, tired but happy. Here are the transportation alternatives if you want to have an amazing trip like I did:

My partner and I wanted a romantic break without the stress of flying, so we booked a 3D2N trip to Bintan, Indonesia. We took the morning ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bentan Telani, which took just under an hour. Immigration was smooth, and a resort van picked us up at the terminal.

We stayed at The Sanchaya, absolutely stunning! The beachfront villa, the colonial charm, and the attentive service made everything feel luxurious. We spent our first day relaxing by the infinity pool and sipping cocktails by the beach.

On Day 2, we went for a couples’ massage at the spa and then joined a mangrove tour in the late afternoon. It was magical seeing the fireflies light up the riverbanks after sunset. For dinner, we had grilled seafood under the stars—definitely the highlight of our trip.

We spent our final morning paddleboarding and just enjoying the serenity before catching the noon ferry back to Singapore. Short, sweet, and so memorable. Here are the transportation alternatives if you want to have an amazing trip like I did:

I’d been hearing a lot about how cheap things are in Batam, Indonesia, so I finally decided to go on a solo shopping day trip. I took the first ferry at 8am from HarbourFront to Batam Centre. The ride took about an hour.

First stop: Batam City Square. I bought three pairs of jeans for the price of one in Singapore! Then I headed to Nagoya Hill Mall, where I stocked up on beauty products, snacks, and even a new pair of sandals.

For lunch, I went to A2 Food Court and had grilled fish and sambal kangkong. The food was super affordable and tasty. Later, I went for a massage at First Choice Spa, which cost me less than SGD 20 for an hour.

I was back on the 6pm ferry to Singapore, tired but happy with all my shopping bags. It was such a fun and productive short trip. Here is the alternative transportation list if you’re wondering to know:

Singapore’s heat was getting to me, so I booked a weekend in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia, for some cool mountain air. I took a Friday night coach from Golden Mile Complex and arrived in Tanah Rata early Saturday morning.

I stayed at a quaint little guesthouse near the town centre. After checking in, I had breakfast at the local market—fresh strawberries, scones, and teh tarik. I spent the morning exploring tea plantations and even took a tour of the BOH Tea Centre.

In the afternoon, I hiked through the mossy forest and visited the butterfly garden. Everything was so peaceful and green—it was just what I needed.

On Sunday, I went to the weekend market for souvenirs and enjoyed a traditional steamboat lunch before heading back to Singapore by coach. Here is the alternative transportation list if you’re wondering to know:

I’d always heard Malacca, Malaysia, was rich in history, so I finally booked a weekend trip there. I took a coach from Singapore early Saturday morning and arrived by noon. First stop: chicken rice balls at Chung Wah. The queue was long, but it moved fast and was worth every minute.

I spent my afternoon exploring Jonker Street, visiting the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, and snapping photos along the riverfront. The city has this charming blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and Peranakan influences.

At night, I joined a river cruise and watched the lights reflect off the water while munching on street snacks. I stayed at The Majestic Malacca, which had vintage décor and impeccable service. Here is the transportation list if you want to know more:

I needed a change from Singapore’s skyline, so I took a weekend trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Friday night coach dropped me near KL Sentral, and I checked into a boutique hotel in Bukit Bintang.

Saturday morning, I visited Petronas Towers and KLCC Park, followed by a shopping spree at Pavilion KL. I had lunch at Jalan Alor—satay, fried oyster omelette, and mango ice. In the evening, I caught a view from Heli Lounge Bar, which turned into a rooftop party as the sun went down.

Sunday was all about culture. I explored the Islamic Arts Museum and took a Grab ride to Batu Caves. After a final round of nasi lemak, I headed back to Singapore, already planning my next visit. Here is the transportation list you can choose:

Desaru had been on my radar for a while, so I booked a weekend trip with friends. We drove in early Saturday morning—customs were smooth, and we reached Desaru in under 2.5 hours.

We checked into The Westin Desaru and went straight to the beach. The sand was clean, the water clear, and we spent the afternoon kayaking and playing volleyball. Dinner was at Nelayan Seafood, where we feasted on chilli crab and grilled squid.

On Sunday, we visited the Desaru Fruit Farm and then cooled off at Adventure Waterpark. It was such a relaxing yet fun trip, perfect for a quick beach escape. Transportation option for you:

I’m an avid diver, so Tioman, Malaysia, was a dream. I took a coach from Singapore to Mersing, then a ferry to the island. I stayed at a dive resort in Tekek village.

Each day, I went out for two dives, and enjoying vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and clear waters made it unforgettable. When not diving, I relaxed at the beach with a book and a fresh coconut.

The island is quiet and perfect for a digital detox. I left feeling refreshed and already planning my return. Transportation list:

For the National Day break, I flew to Langkawi from Changi. The flight was only about 90 minutes. I rented a car and explored the island at my own pace.

Highlights included the Langkawi Sky Bridge, a sunset cruise, and chilling at Pantai Cenang. I stayed at a beachfront resort with incredible sunset views. Local food was amazing—nasi dagang, laksa, and satay galore!

It was the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Transportation list for you:

I love Malaysian food, so I went to Ipoh with one goal: to eat everything! I flew in via KL and arrived in time for dim sum breakfast at Foh San.

I explored Concubine Lane, visited the Han Chin Pet Soo museum, and tried salted chicken at Aun Kheng Lim. Every meal was delicious, especially the tau fu fa at Funny Mountain.

Ipoh is slower-paced but full of charm. A great place to unwind and indulge. Resume of transportation list:

Bangkok never disappoints. I took a Friday night flight and checked into a hotel near Siam Paragon. Saturday was all about Chatuchak Market, so many deals!

For lunch, I had boat noodles and mango sticky rice. In the evening, I visited the Talad Rot Fai Night Market. The atmosphere, food, and vintage finds were unbeatable.

On Sunday, I squeezed in a massage and last-minute shopping at Platinum Mall before flying back. Fast-paced but fulfilling. Transportation option for you:

I craved sun and sea, so I booked a trip to Krabi. Flew from Changi and arrived in just under two hours. Ao Nang was my base.

Over two days, I explored Railay Beach, went on a 4-island tour, and snorkelled in crystal-clear waters. At night, I strolled the beach and had a seafood BBQ.

Krabi was laid-back and beautiful, ideal for recharging. Transportation option for you:

Living in Singapore has one unbeatable perk: its proximity to so many incredible destinations. Whether I’m craving spicy Thai street food, cool mountain air in Malaysia, or relaxing beach vibes just a ferry away, there’s always somewhere exciting just a few hours from home.

So if you’re feeling stuck or just need a break, pack light, grab your passport, and go explore. You’ll be amazed at what’s waiting just across the border.

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