Australia’s unique location puts a world of unforgettable destinations within reach – perfect for a summer holiday. From tropical beaches to bustling cities and even snow-capped peaks, there’s a getaway for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both.
Whether it’s lounging by the ocean, exploring vibrant urban spots or chopping fresh powder, here’s where to go and what to do this summer.
The city
There’s nothing more exciting than the buzz of an Asian city. For a megalopolis that has everything, go to Singapore. You can sit on plastic stools and enjoy Anthony Bourdain-approved dishes at the hawker markets, stroll the hip Haji Lane, and explore the incense-filled streets of Little India, one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods. Or kick back at a gourmet restaurant like Burnt Ends (considered one of the best restaurants in the world), shop ’til you drop for luxury brands at Ion Mall, and rest and recharge in style at the InterContinental Singaporea five-star hotel dripping with old-world charm.
Or try Bangkok, home to delectable meals, plentiful rooftop bars and Asia’s cool crowd. Go on a treasure hunt in the markets, taste the street food in abundance and feel the wind in your hair as you drive from place to place in the back of a TukTuk. The Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok ensures you have easy access to the city’s best sights and has the little things that help you recharge after a long day on the pavement – like an excellent on-site spa and a pool that overlooks a beautiful secret garden .
And our summer is the time to visit as December, January and February are the driest months of the year in the Thai capital.
The beach
Picture this: a lounge chair on the beach. A giant coconut to sip on. A good book in hand and not a worry in the world.
There’s no better place to make that dream come true than Asia’s many beach paradises – it’s just a matter of choosing where you want to go. For the easiest trip possible, head to Bali, just a six-hour flight from Sydney, and check into the luxurious beach InterContinental Bali Resortlocated along a stretch of beautiful white sandy beach – perhaps the most beautiful spot on the island.
Or you can go to Phuket, where it remains dry and sunny from December to March. The Thai beach destination has plenty of restaurants, shops and action to explore, but you can also just relax and enjoy the resort life InterContinental Phuket Resort.
Bordering the pristine shores of Kamala Beach, this five-star destination offers seven dining options (including the Michelin-starred Jaras), five beautiful outdoor pools and an on-site spa.
Further afield, bucket list-level luxury awaits in the Maldives, the archipelago escape favored by discerning types the world over. You can even stay on a private island InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resortwhich offers unobstructed views of the endless ocean from the southern tip of Raa Atoll.
Do yoga in a studio overlooking the water, try snorkeling, parasailing, or jet skiing, or simply soak in your room’s private oceanfront infinity pool. And our summer is the best time to go to Maldives; you can expect clear skies and perfect weather from December through March.
The snow
Who said you have to go somewhere warm? If your idea of a holiday paradise involves beating the heat in favor of the slopes, hop on a flight to Japan. Japan’s ski resorts are known as some of the best skiing destinations in the world and are best visited from December to March when the powder snow is at its heaviest.
It’s hard to get past the ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort, a 5-star luxury resort in Tohoku, Japan. The beautiful snow landscapes are known by locals as ‘wonderful snow’, perfect for skiing or snowboarding. Hit the slopes, indulge in Japanese gastronomy, then recharge by soaking in the hotel’s own hot spring and swimming in the heated pool. Bliss.
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