It is hot here in Singapore every day, and come the summer months starting in June, most places in the world will begin rivaling our temperatures, limiting the destinations we can head to in order to escape the heat. But there are places within the Asia Pacific that are actually cool this time of the year (between June to August). Here are some you should put on your getaway list.
Sapa, Vietnam
There is no need to fly far to drop the degrees. While Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi remains hot this time of the year, the temperature at Sapa in the Lao Cai Province actually dips to the low 20s on average. It’s the perfect climate to trek the outskirts of the the hill town, where lush mountain ranges and picturesque rice fields cover the landscape. Ethnic communities to visit with a guide, local craft markets and affordable rooms and massages complete the experience.
Getting there: Fly in to Hanoi and take a sleeper train
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Even closer to home is the luxurious Cameron Highlands. Expect temperatures to also be in the low 20s range, which makes it comfortable to visit the strawberry fields and bee farms the district is famous for. Be sure to stock up on some honey at the apiaries, as they will be great accompaniments to the fresh brews at the tea plantations that should also be on your itinerary.
Getting there: Fly in to Ipoh and take a hour-long bus ride
Ella, Sri Lanka
Further afield, but still a reasonable budget flight away, is the small town of Ella with average temperatures hovering around the mid-20 degrees. Not only is the place tourist-friendly with backpacker facilities available, it also makes for a romantic getaway with an easy, scenic hiking trail that take you (and your special other) to the top of the breathtaking Little Adam’s Peak.
Getting there: Fly in to Colombo and take the local train
Blue Mountains, Australia
Of course, while the rest of the world is heating up, it gets much colder Down Under. Those who actually enjoy the cold winter should head to the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Blue Mountains, found just a short distance away from Sydney. There are many activities to keep you busy there, but be sure to go on the glow worm tours, where you will be surrounded by thousands of living, breathing lights in an ancient canyon.
Getting there: Fly in to Sydney
Craigieburn Valley, New Zealand
Those looking for a truly chilly holiday can find it at the ski slopes and resorts of New Zealand’s Craigieburn Valley. You won’t find crowds, spas or gondolas here, instead, expect snowboarding and hiking to take centerstage as extreme sport enthusiasts go on runs after runs on steep slopes and wide open powder bowls. Not for the faint hearted or the uninitiated.
Getting there: Fly in to Christchurch and rent a car
There are many other destinations in the region where you can escape the heat. Travel search engine Skyscanner has done up an interactive heat map where you can have an overview of where you can go at a glimpse. Check it out below.
