The world’s best beach holidays
As the SA winter sets in, many of us find ourselves dreaming of a tropical escape, but picking the perfect destination can be tricky. We asked RAA’s travel experts for their top beach holiday spots, and here’s what they said.
On a budget: Bali, Thailand or Malaysia
These destinations are popular for a reason. The most common threads between Bali, Thailand and Malaysia are definitely cheap shopping, tasty local cuisine and friendly customer service. And then of course, there’s the fact a massage could set you back as little as a third of what you’d pay in Australia. There are plenty of options for families, party-loving backpackers, couples or singles, but make sure to do your research first to get the best deal. Chances are you’ve got a friend or family member who can vouch for a particular resort, villa or hotel to stay on the cheap – or you can ask an RAA travel consultant, of course. Rena, travel expert from our Elizabeth Shop, recommends checking out Phang Nga Bay in Thailand for its stunning limestone cliffs – you may recognise them from the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun.For solo travellers: Palm Cove or Singapore
It’s frequently billed as a romantic holiday spot for couples, but there’s plenty in Palm Cove for solo travellers too. Sandra from our Adelaide Shop says, “The best part is you can park yourself at one hotel or resort and still spend every day taking on a new adventure – from diving and snorkeling to horse riding or kayaking. Or you can spend days massage-hopping, with a touch of shopping or fine dining – it’s entirely up to you.” Singapore might be well known for its skyscrapers and bright city lights, but you can go at a slower pace too. For those looking for some rest and relaxation, the beach is your best bet. Most of Singapore’s best beaches are man-made, meaning they’ve been built with tourists in mind. The excellent public transport links, abundant Wi-Fi, low crime rates and diverse accommodation options also make it a great place for solo travellers.