Weekend getaways are back on the menu, and there’s no time like the present to hop on a flight and enjoy a well-deserved break. Luckily, there are a number of destinations you can head to which are just a quick flight away – allowing you to maximise your holiday time without using up your precious annual leave.  

From city adventures to family-friendly beach resorts, we’ve tracked down where to go and which hotels to stay at in our guide below. Grab your cabin bag and passport, it’s time to escape. 

Hanoi: 2h 05m flight

Where to stay: Apricot Hotel

This charming boutique hotel in Hanoi is set on the banks of the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect location to explore Hanoi, from its elegant Indochine-era buildings to its impeccable street food. Dive into the bustle of the old quarter, before basking in the view of the lake from the rooftop pool and bar, or treating yourself to a classic afternoon tea in the grand A’telier tea room.  

Book here

Phnom Penh: 2h 35m flight   

Where to stay: Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra

This hotel boasts elegant French colonial architecture and an ideal riverside location, just a short distance from attractions such as the Royal Palace, Independence Monument and National Museum. With amenities provided by Lanvin and Hermes, there’s no skimping on quality here and it’s the perfect base for those looking to sightsee and then return to bask in a spot of luxury. 

Book here

Bangkok: 2h 40m flight   

Where to stay: The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon   

Enter a vibrant daydream at The Standard, where lush emerald wallpaper, rattan hanging pendants and citrus-hued bedrooms welcome you. You’ll tick a Bangkok landmark off your list by simply staying here: it’s located in the King Power Mahanakhon skyscraper, one of Bangkok’s tallest buildings and an architectural marvel. This hotel is painfully cool and it knows it: it boasts the highest rooftop bar in Bangkok, a sky high pool with city views, and the Bangkok outpost of hip Chinese eatery Mott 32.    

Book here

Cebu: 2h 45m flight 

Where to stay: Shangri-La Mactan  

Tucked away on a white sand beach, you’ll discover one of Cebu’s greatest resorts: the Shangri-La Mactan. The resort sprawls across 13 hectares and boasts endless facilities. Relax by one of its two secluded pools or the crystal ocean waters with a cocktail in hand, then give your muscles a break with a traditional Philippine Hilot massage at Chi Spa: this technique uses coconut oil and warm banana leaves to soothe and rejuvenate. If you have children in tow, there’s endless fun to be had at the water slide area or indoor children’s play zone, which features a towering jungle gym.

Book here

Taipei: 1h 35m flight

Where to stay: Regent Taipei    

This sleek urban oasis sits in the heart of Taipei, making it an ideal base to explore the capital. It’s located just a stone’s throw from Zhongshan Metro Station, and famed landmarks such as the  Huashan 1914 Creative Park are just a 10-minute drive away. The hotel pays homage to Taiwan’s cultural heritage, with Japanese, Western and Chinese elements scattered throughout (especially its eight restaurants). Make the most of your time by ticking off the sightseeing from the comfort of your own bed, thanks to the hotel’s sprawling skyline views. 

Book here

Kaohsiung: 1h 30m flight

Where to stay: Intercontinental Kaohsiung

Modern glamour is the name of the game at the Intercon Kaohsiung, which is easily recognised thanks to its illuminated golden facade. If you’re planning on a big shopping holiday, this is the hotel for you. It’s located near Sanduo Shopping District: a shopping area comprising three gigantic shopping malls, filled with both luxury stores and hip boutiques. Be sure to make a pitstop at Wa-Ra: a striking Japanese restaurant which combines kaiseki dining with nightly digital art shows.

Book here