The best tropical winter escapes in Asia

Life in Laos moves at a snail's pace compared to its neighbours. Although the capital, Vientienne, has a bit more bustle, hop on the new China-Laos Railway to Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Although Van Vieng has a party reputation, there are plenty of places for peaceful reprieve away from the main drag, like ViengTara VangVieng Resort and Song View Pool Villa. Further north in the riverside town of Luang Prabang, saffron-robed monks walk between gold-domed temples and stylish cafes. Home to a number of five-star hotels like Amantaka and Avani+ Luang Prabang, spend time in this stunning locale, cycling around town, sipping Beer Lao during riverside sunsets and eating Laotian food at Little Lao and Manda de Laos.

Time Out tip: During the morning alms in Luang Prabang, avoid the sardine-packed main street. Instead, wander off to the smaller roads and keep your distance from the monks.

I’m not a gambler, but I’ll bet you there’s no better place on earth for a winter escape than the Maldives. This island nation is sprinkled with private island oases that go all-out for the festive season. Luxury resorts put on elaborate Christmas buffets overflowing with Maldivian lobster tails and New Year’s Eve fireworks shows worth televising. Apart from the festivities, the weather is typically perfect this time of year, so expect to spend hours snorkelling the resort’s colourful house reefs, swimming its crystal clear waters and reading from your overwater bungalow. Some of the country’s stop resorts are JOALI Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi, Six Senses Laamu, Patina and St. Regis Vommuli Island. 

Time Out tip: If marine life is your thing, plan a trip to the Baa Atoll’s Hanifaru Bay in November to witness the largest manta ray feeding in the world.

A constant in the travel Rolodex, Thailand is always a good time. Bangkok has catapulted itself to the top of world-class city rankings, while the country’s beaches are as pristine and picturesque as ever. Basically, there’s a Thailand trip for every type of traveller. Visit elephants in Chiang Mai at Elephant Nature Park, followed by a pork knuckle feast courtesy of the Cowboy Hat Lady at the Chiang Mai Gate Night Market. Treat yourself to a Michelin-star meal at Sorn (if you can get a reservation), followed by bar hopping around the city’s best cocktail bars from Teens of Thailand to Alonetogether. Or just pack your shades and sunscreen for any number of sensational Thai islands, like Koh Samui, Koh Kood or Koh Lipe.

Time Out tip: Book early. Winter is one of the busiest times in Thailand, so plan accordingly and make reservations for the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and activities ASAP.

This underrated Southeast Asian country ticks all the boxes. Unparalleled ancient temples, vibrant culture, serene swaths of sand and oodles of natural beauty await in Cambodia. Most trips here centre around Angkor Wat, one of the world’s eight wonders. Crowds descend on these ancient temples at sunrise and sunset to capture the best light. But don’t just take a photo and leave, spend several hours with a local guide exploring the maze of temples and twisting trees spread over 400 acres. Once you’re templed out, head south to the islands off the coast of Cambodia. The dry season runs from October to April, making winter an ideal time to visit the stretches of sand on Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samleom.

Time Out tip: Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples in Cambodia, and always carry cash for tips and drinks.

We’ll be honest, November in Sri Lanka is blanketed with rain. But come December, the country’s south coast is a surfer’s haven. From Galle to Tangalle, the beaches are lined with surf schools, beach clubs, trendy cafes, and boutique hotels, earning it a reputation as the Bali of yesteryear. Two of the best places to spend time are Ahangama and Hiriketiya. Book a stay at Casa Tikiri or the new adults-only Paddy Lodge, where you can walk to Kabalana Beach and learn to surf. Make reservations at the country’s best restaurant/bar, Smoke & Bitters, and its sister restaurant, Raa, steps from the waves at Hiriketiya Beach.

Time Out tip: There are dozens and dozens of surf schools sprinkled along the coast. Read Google reviews, look online and try a few different schools to find the best surf instructor for you.

Long overlooked, Vietnam is finally getting its moment in the tourism spotlight. Less crowded and more affordable than Thailand, people are increasingly making a beeline for the pho houses of Hanoi and the cafes of Saigon. And while there are cultural offerings abound, Vietnam has fantastic beaches along its 3,444 kilometres of coast. Da Nang’s My Khe Beach has shockingly white sands, warm water, and oceanside seafood. Nearby, the InterContinental DaNang has a crescent-shaped slice of sand with inviting emerald waters. Further down the coast, locals love Quy Nhon for its fresh seafood and uncrowded beaches. Anantara Quy Nhon and Zannier Bai San Ho are the area’s best resorts, located directly on the shore. And while Phu Quoc is popular, home to the grand and gorgeous Regent Phu Quoc, overdevelopment has, sadly, plagued the island.

Time Out tip: Vietnam’s New Year (Tet) takes place in January or February. In the week around Tet, plan for businesses to be closed and ATMs to be out of cash. 

If you’re looking for a tropical city, Singapore is Asia’s premier escape. Although winter is the rainy season, Singapore has plenty of indoor activities to keep travellers dry. There is every adventure activity under the drizzly Singaporean sky, from rock climbing to go-karting to bowling to roller skating. This tiny island nation is also home to some of the region’s best museums to spend your days in, including the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands, the Peranakan Museum and the National Gallery Singapore. And when night falls, bar hopping around the city’s best cocktail bars is the perfect way to spend an evening. Make reservations at Atlas, Jigger & Pony, Cat Bite Club and end the night at Sago House.

Time Out tip: Bring a light rain jacket with you whenever you go. It will keep you dry and warm under Singapore’s strong air conditioning.