Let’s escape! Short Southeast Asia mini-moon spots

The big day’s over and you’re not quite ready to delve back into work — but you’re setting aside your annual leave and savings for a big romantic honeymoon getaway in the future. This is what “mini-moons” are for! No extensive planning, no exorbitant spending, just a few days of doing what you both love as a couple to kick-start your marriage. And since you’re planning for a bigger honeymoon at a later date, mini-moons are a perfect opportunity to visit unexplored destinations closer to home, with just as much romance to offer. Easily accessible with direct flights from Changi Airport and less than 5 hours away, whisk yourself away to some of these less conventional spots for an unforgettable getaway!

Connect amidst natural wonders in Ipoh, Malaysia

Rest and relax amidst the natural wonderscapes in Ipoh, Malaysia. Photo credit: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Recommended by the New York Times as an up-and-coming travel spot that “should be on your travel radar”, Ipoh is the seventh largest city in Malaysia (aka “the hipster capital”) and known for its delicious affordable food, homegrown white coffee and picturesque natural ‘wonderscapes’. So much packed in one destination, and only an hour away by plane from Changi Airport, Singapore.

Retreat into The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat and celebrate the start of a new chapter. Photo credit: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Where to stay: Malaysia’s first luxury natural hot springs wellness retreat, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat offers an escape into nature without having to leave the compounds. A two-night stay is enough time to unwind in tranquillity and relieve some of the stress built up from the wedding prep, but you can stay for longer if you desire — because once you arrive, you won’t want to leave!

What to do: Take in the picture-perfect scenery as you soak in your private pool and hot tub, relax every muscle in your body with a couple spa and explore the fascinating cave structures in the resort — from the Thermal Steam Cave where you can detoxify with a natural sauna to the Meditation Cave where you can find absolute peace and serenity. The resort also houses Ipoh’s natural hot springs so you can pack light and spend the weekend in your bathrobe (if you wish)!

Dive into a sea of love in Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia

Devil’s Tear, one of the most popular cliff-jumping spots in Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is one of the three beautiful islands that make up the Nusa Islands — the other two being Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan. Reminiscent of Bali (before it became mainstream), Lembongan is Indonesia’s well-hidden gem to get plenty of respite. Plus, you can stay at a relatively luxurious resort for less than the flight! Known for some of the best dive spots in the world, The Nusa Island is also where you can swim amongst manta rays in clear blue waters — whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver.

Take a break from your adventure with some couple time-off by the pool at Twin Island Villas. Photo credit: Twin Island Villas

Where to stay: There are plenty of resorts to choose from depending on your budget. For a mid-range comfortable stay with stunning ocean views, Twin Island Villas is a good option. Seated on the south of Nusa Lembongan, the resort offers panoramic views of its neighbouring islands (Ceningan and Penida).

What to do: Spend a couple of days exploring the Isles. Nusa Penida, in particular, the largest of three islands, is where you can experience snorkelling with manta rays. It’s a quick boat ride over from Lembongan and well worth it. You’ll want to bring your GoPro for this!

Embark on a passionate adventure in Cebu, Philippines

Get outdoors and experience life amidst nature in Cebu, Philippines

Known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is where pristine waters blend in the horizon and vibrant corals flood the seabed. Here is also where heart-racing adventures await — we’re talking about jumping off waterfalls, trekking up mountains for the prettiest sunset views, and canyoneering through Cebu’s natural landscapes!

Kandaya Resort, voted Tatler’s Top 10 Most Romantic Resorts in Southeast Asia. Photo credit: Kandaya Resort

Where to stay: Idyllic and luxurious, Kandaya Resort offers just the right mix of adventure and relaxation. With a wide range of pre-planned packages such as the Private Moments Package and Voyage to Malapascua Island Package, your all-in-one retreat is only an email away.

What to do: Slip away for a day trip to Kandaya’s private beach cove on Malapascua island, where its long stretch of white sand makes for romantic strolls and plenty of honeymoon pictures your friends will fawn over. And as you’re having an intimate picnic lunch specially set up against the vast ocean (away from the crowd), let reality sink in — you’re actually married!

A spontaneous summer escape in Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Live out a real-life tropical fairytale in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Photo credit: The Liberty Ranch

A nearby province in Southwest Cambodia, Sihanoukville offers underrated palm-fringed beaches, laid back tropical island vibes and tons of yummy seafood restaurants. Imagine a closer-to-home, more affordable, less touristy option to Sydney.

Check into Sahaa Beach Resort and be pampered with the ultimate mini-moon experience. Photo credit: Sahaa Beach Resort

Where to stay: Get all 3 S’s: sun, sand and sea in the charming boutique hotel Sahaa Beach Resort. Next to one of Sihanoukville’s most tranquil and least crowded beaches, Otres Beach, this resort is a great option for newly-weds exploring where to go on a mini-moon.

What to do: Other than sharing stories from the wedding over cocktails and long strolls — have you ever dreamt of horseback riding through the sunset by the sea? That’s right. The Liberty Ranch offers horseback riding by the sea at Otres Beach. With several trails of varying difficulty levels available, this will surely provide an unforgettable experience. The horses are also well-looked after and you can even get to know them here.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing mini-moon or something more adventurous to kick-start your first steps together as a wedded couple, check out these unique vacation ideas for couples. It’s the perfect way to springboard your marriage and learn how to live together, all while creating wonderful memories that you can share with your kids in future. Plus, it’s only a direct flight away from Changi, so what are you waiting for? Happy mini-mooning, and congratulations!