4 Underrated Destinations in Asia for a Restful Getaway

Looking for a quick getaway without breaking the bank? Skip the usual tourist hotspots like Bali and Phuket, and explore some of Asia's lesser-known gems instead — they’re less crowded too!

From the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka to serene glamping spots in Chiang Mai, these four underrated destinations offer a refreshing alternative to the usual long weekend getaways.

 

1) Colombo, Sri Lanka (3hr 50min flight)

Photo credit: Hendrik Cornelissen via Unsplash

 

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or everything in between, Sri Lanka is the place to be. 

Visit beautiful coastal towns like Tangalle, known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and laid-back vibes — great for relaxing and soaking up some sun! Or, head to Mirissa’s beaches for whale and dolphin watching!

Appreciate Sri Lanka’s beautiful countryside on a scenic train ride from Colombo to Badulla. This railway journey takes you through Sri Lanka’s natural scenery such as waterfalls and misty hills. 

 

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

 

Along the way, you’ll even pop by Nuwara Eliya, a vast tea plantation. It's also known as "Little England" because of its colonial architecture and gardens. 

 

2) Phu Quoc, Vietnam (4hr 40min flight including layover in KL)

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Skip the crowds in Phuket or Bali and head to Phu Quoc in Vietnam instead. This tropical paradise boasts white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, with various exciting activities to try. 

 

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Some must-dos include island-hopping across Fingernail Island, Gam Ghi Island, and May Rut Island, feasting on fresh seafood at Phu Quoc Night Market, and splashing around at Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park.  FYI, you’ll need to take the world’s longest cable car (spanning 7,899m) from An Thoi Town to get to the park!

 

3) Surabaya, Indonesia (2hr 20min flight)

Photo credit: Sparkling Surabaya

 

Surabaya is an ideal destination for travellers seeking unique experiences — from the epic limestone pillars of Bukit Kapur Sekapuk to the tranquil waters of the Gunung Anyar mangrove forest.

 

Photo credit: Yusuf Hasan via Unsplash

 

For a more off-the-beaten-track experience, check out Madura Island. A short boat ride from Surabaya takes you to beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and cultural experiences like Karapan Sapi (Traditional Bull Races)!

Or drive down to Malang. This city near Surabaya is known for its colonial architecture, scenic countryside, and interesting attractions like the Jodipan Rainbow Village, Malang Blue Village, and Bukit Kuneer Tea Plantations.

 

BlackBarn Cafe. Photo credit: @tiandeh_ via Instagram

 

Once you’re done exploring, head back to Surabaya and chill at some of its cafes! Here’s our list of recommendations:

BlackBarn Coffee — Decked in a rustic setting, sit back and enjoy BlackBarn’s high-quality coffee and espresso drinks. They serve Western and fusion cuisine with star dishes like Nasi Dori Sambal Matah (fried dory fillet with chilli) and Mac and Cheese!

Opening hours: 9AM – 10:30PM

Address: Jl. Untung Suropati No.79, DR. Soetomo, Kec. Tegalsari, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60264, Indonesia

 

Calibre Coffee Roasters — If you’re into specialty coffee, this cafe is your “cup of coffee”. Calibre offers an extensive selection of single-origin beans, brewed using different methods to showcase each coffee’s unique flavour.

Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM

Address: Jl. Walikota Mustajab No.67 - 69, Ketabang, Kec. Genteng, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60272, Indonesia

 

Historica — This cafe is popular for its cosy ambience. The menu features a variety of coffee and pastry options.

Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM

Address: Jl. Sumatera No.40, Gubeng, Kec. Gubeng, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60281, Indonesia

 

Love Bugs Cafe — This unique, glasshouse cafe surrounds a lake and is a great spot to catch the sunset. They serve Western cuisine, and Japanese Cuisine, and offer a wide selection of gelato flavours too!

Opening hours: 4PM – 2AM

Address: Blk. CB, Jl. Citra Utama Lidah Kulon No.23, Lidah Kulon, Kec. Lakarsantri, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60213, Indonesia

 

4) Chiang Mai, Thailand (3hr flight)

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Escape to the picturesque mountains of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai offers a quiet getaway with cool day trips around the area. One being Mon Jam, where you’ll find unique glamping experiences and a vibrant cafe scene.

 

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Another is the nearby city of Chiang Rai — immerse in its rich heritage and visit the iconic Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple). 

 

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Take a road trip to Ban Rak Thai, a quaint village bordering Myanmar. This peaceful Chinatown-esque village features traditional Yunnanese-style cottages surrounded by tea plantations and a serene lake — for a moment, you’ll even forget you’re in Thailand!

 

Photo credit: The Travel Intern

 

Besides day trips, Chiang Mai also offers exhilarating experiences like hot air balloon rides and paramotoring where you can soak in the gorgeous landscapes from up above ☁️

 

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Qantas Airways: 10% off base far in all one-way and return Qantas Airways operated flights.

InsureTravel: Embark on a worry-free trip with 30% off* your travel insurance with InsureTravel.

 

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