Need a Break? Best Countries for a Stress-Free Labour Day Holiday

As we approach the time of year when we celebrate a full year of hard work, it’s the perfect moment to plan a well-deserved retreat. With mid-year just around the corner, now is also a great time to book your next flight. Whether you’re hoping to catch the autumn leaves, experience winter snow, or simply enjoy a short getaway, these five countries are among the best (and in some cases, most affordable) destinations to step away from your routine and truly unwind.

Chengdu, China

Photo credit: Cheersum Leisure Hotel on Trip.com

China’s major cities are buzzing almost 24 hours a day, all in the name of convenience and comfort. As a tourist, this place feels like your empire. Need a quick bite at 3am? It will be delivered to you in 30 minutes. Forgot your toiletries? Just a few clicks and your essentials will arrive right at your doorstep. All you need to do is book a comfortable hotel, and you are set to live like royalty for a few days.

Meanwhile, in Chengdu, the city is not only famous for its adorable pandas. Hidden within this tech-driven hub is one of China’s most luxurious 24-hour spas, Cheersum Leisure Hotel. Forget about ordinary hotels; this spa retreat might just become a hideout you will never want to leave.

From just 298 yuan, you can enjoy 24-hour access to hot pools, saunas, salt rooms, entertainment areas, and even nap rooms. On top of that, you are treated to an all-you-can-eat breakfast, plus a spread of fruits, snacks, and drinks. If that is not enough, you can top up an additional 298 yuan for a dinner buffet served multiple times a day.

If this is not the ultimate indulgent retreat, we do not know what is. Book your flight to Chengdu now!

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New Zealand

Have you ever heard the term “touch grass”? It is often used by younger generations who are deeply immersed in technology, constantly glued to their phones or computers. The phrase encourages people to step outside and reconnect with nature, a reminder that there is a world beyond our screens.

In today’s digital age, many of us spend almost two-thirds of our day on our devices. It might be time to go on a “touch grass” retreat, and New Zealand is the perfect destination to leave you in awe of just how majestic nature can be.

This trip is ideal for couples or small groups, especially if at least one person is able to drive. Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime, filled with breathtaking mountains and serene lakes.

Our suggested route is Christchurch > Lake Tekapo > Mount Cook > Wanaka > Queenstown > Milford Sound.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Forget Bali or Phuket. Phu Quoc is the next destination you need to visit. Not only are there direct flights via Scoot and VietJet at affordable prices, but its scenic beaches and luxurious resorts rival those in more popular destinations.

Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and has gained recognition in recent years. At first, you might think it is just another island with clear waters and soft white sand, but there is much more to it. The beautiful beaches are only the beginning. On the island, you will find the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car, as well as a safari experience where bears roam freely while you ride through in a bus, and cheetahs (in cages) come so close it feels like you are face to face with them.

This island offers a flexible retreat, whether you are looking for a luxurious escape or a laid-back island experience. Most importantly, it is an affordable short getaway that lets you soak up the sun.

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

If you are a true city girl or boy, travelling to another big city can be pricey, unless you are heading to our neighbouring country, Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur offers the perfect urban escape without breaking the bank.

The best part? You get to do what every Singaporean loves most: eat. Hop from food spots to cafés, share dishes with friends, and enjoy a midday matcha pick-me-up along the way.

A change of environment and a break from work also give you the chance to explore, unwind, and finally do all the things you have been putting off. Best of all, getting to KL is affordable. You can even take a night bus and turn it into a quick weekend feasting trip.

Palawan, Philippines

Nope, not Palawan beach in Sentosa, although that place is perfect to unwind and bask in the sun. But Palawan in Philippines just hits different. Not only do they have the typical luxurious resort where you can just do everything within the compound, but beyond the island, you can explore lagoons, kayaking and a myriad of water sports.

If you’re down for it, you can even ride a helicopter to look at the islands from a top down POV. This place is not only romantic, but incredibly fun to be in. Our suggestion is to go with a bunch of your friends to unwind and share the cost of renting a helicopter for the best experience!

Nope, not Palawan Beach in Sentosa, although that is a great place to unwind and soak up the sun. We are talking about Palawan in the Philippines, and it truly hits different.

While there are plenty of luxurious resorts where you can relax within the compound, the experience goes far beyond that. Step outside and you will discover breathtaking lagoons, kayaking adventures, and a wide range of water sports to enjoy.

If you are up for it, you can even take a helicopter ride to see the islands from above. It is not just a romantic destination, but an incredibly fun one as well.

Our suggestion is to travel with a group of friends so you can unwind together and share the cost of renting a helicopter for the ultimate experience.

The most important part of celebrating Labour Day is the reminder to rest amidst the hustle, so we can keep going for the long run.

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