[SPONSORED] Far-flung destinations and once-in-a-lifetime holidays are awesome, but you don’t have to go far for a memorable stay. Here are five amazing experiences on Airbnb that make for a perfect quick getaway this Chinese New Year long weekend. (Also, if you sign up below, you get an extra $32 off the listed prices.)
THAILAND
Escape the city to an urban oasis in Bangkok
Why you should do it: Yes, Bangkok is great for shopping and amazing street food. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle (while getting your shopping and eating on), there are plenty of leafy neighborhoods and places to stay.
Where you should stay: We sniffed out a few apartments on Airbnb that are in the quieter parts of Bangkok like this laidback penthouse loft (approx. $79 per night*) with a huge balcony, sun chairs and views of the city in the hipster hood of Ari, or this comfy two-bedroom (approx. $184 per night) in the hot-and-happening area of Sukhumvit. There are also plenty of stylish condos (approx. $48 per night) with pool access.
MALAYSIA
Take in the Kuala Lumpur skyline from a swanky rooftop pool
Why you should do it: For starters, it’s easy enough to get to; it’s five hours on the bus or under an hour if you choose to fly. But more importantly, KL is getting a brand new lifestyle enclave with a bunch of cool bars and restos set to open early this year and it’s going to be Zouk KL’s new home too.
Where you should stay: We love a good rooftop pool, especially one that comes with a fantastic view to boot. And there were more than a couple to pick from on Airbnb like this swanky condo (approx. $58 per night) or this (approx. $146 per night), and this (approx. $68 per night). Not only do they all come with sleek infinity pools, there are also facilities like sauna, steam rooms, gym and you can even have a drink at the sky lounges.
CAMBODIA
Go on an exotic retreat in Siem Reap
Why you should do it: This sleepy city in northern Cambodia has only been getting hipper with the arrival of trendy hotels and chic restos. But that doesn’t take away the rustic charms, what with its floating villages and world famous temples like Angkor Wat and The Bayon dripping with history.
Where you should stay: Make the most of this culturally rich city by opting for equally charming accommodation options like this rustic room (approx. $272 per night) with statues and modern finishes, this villa that’s surrounded by a lush tropical forest (approx. $89 per night) or this cozy open plan two-bedroom (approx. $163 per night) house.
INDONESIA
Chill out at your very own private villa in Bali
Why you should do it: If you’re all about partying with your crew, there’s no better way to do that than renting out your very own villa (plus, its affordable too). Surfers can head to the more secluded beaches for quality surf time before heading back to your private villa for a cookout and a dip in the pool.
Where you should stay: Private villa options are plentiful on Airbnb. We found this luxe villa (approx. $191 per night) that sleeps eight with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, this beach house (approx. $281 per night) that’s a stone’s throw from the quiet Balian Beach and its gorgeous black sand and this chi chi villa (approx. $96 per night) with its own plunge pool that’s a short walk from the famous Echo beach.
JAPAN
Kick back with locals in Tokyo’s hippest hoods
Why you should do it: There’s just so much going on in this buzzing city—from the stoned walls of the Imperial Palace to the gritty fish markets of Tsukiji. Then there’s the trendy hood of Shibuya. And let’s not forget the bright lights and futuristic vibes of Shinjuku.
Where you should stay: We spotted plenty of listings on Airbnb that bring Tokyo’s urban vibes indoors like this industrial chic pad (approx. $179 per night) in the fashionable Harajuku district, or this airy apartment right (approx. $342 per night) amid Shinjuku’s vibrant neon signs and this beautifully designed modern apartment (approx. $122 per night) in the traditional quarters of Toshima.
Go to airbnb.com to find yourself a perfect home for your next holiday now. Don’t forget to head to www.airbnb.com/sgmagazine to get US$25 (S$32) off your first stay, applicable for new signups.
*All pricing information is accurate at the time of publication. Prices are subject to change by the relevant host. Please check airbnb.com for the final applicable price at the time of booking.
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