Eight of the cheapest Asian city break destinations
Unlike Malaysia's capital, Ipoh, a pocket-sized city in northwestern Malaysia, remains wonderfully affordable – double rooms in many of its quaint boutique hotels cost under $53 a night, and guided tours of the limestone caves surrounding the city start at around $33. We grilled Janice Young, co-founder of Explore Ipoh, about her favourite admission-free spots. 'Han Chin Pet Soo is a small heritage museum run by volunteers, and the Kong Fook Ngam cave temple has a massive tunnel system,' says Janice, who recommends fuelling up on her favourite snack. 'Ipoh is famous for taufu fa – a cheap, simple dessert comprising a block of tofu in sweet syrup,' she says.
In Ipoh, a heritage museum is run entirely by local volunteers. Photo / Unsplash
Bangkok, Thailand
Despite being Thailand's capital, Bangkok can be surprisingly cheap. We're huge fans of both its BTS Skytrain and MRT railway networks (fares start from around $0.71), and its river taxis offer great value, too – single fares on the Chao Phraya Express Boat start from $0.81. And while the city has numerous observatories from which to take in the view, they often charge hefty fees. Suzy at Co Van Kessel, which offers guided cycling tours of Chinatown, suggests an alternative approach. 'Head to the top floor of the ICONSIAM mall for stunning views over Chao Phraya River,' she says. 'It's free, and a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.' As for Suzy's go-to snack for travellers on a budget? 'Try khanom buang – crispy pancakes. These delicious little treats, often made with shredded coconut, cost just a few baht.'
Want a big city adventure on a shoestring? These Asian destinations have you covered. Photo / Unsplash
Hoi An, Vietnam
Cheaper and less crowded than Ho Chi Minh, canal-streaked Hoi An, on Vietnam's south-central coastline, is a Unesco-listed gem with a rich history and a beautifully preserved old town. Nothing beats a stroll along its cobbled laneways, illuminated by Chinese lanterns and lined with ancient buildings that date back to its heyday as a trading port. Food, accommodation and souvenirs here are incredibly cheap, and one of the best spots for retail therapy is the Nguyen Hoang Street night market, where you can feast on local snacks such as banh xoai (mango cake) and stock up on souvenirs – we recommend the beautiful ceramic teapots.
Hoi An. Photo / Unsplash
Busan, South Korea
This coastal city might not be on many travellers' radars – unlike Seoul – but that's precisely the reason it's so much cheaper. It's another place where public transport deserves a shout-out – a one-day pass for its fantastic metro system costs just $7. It's also packed with historic sites, many of which are free to visit. 'Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of Korea's few seaside temples, with serene Buddhist architecture and sweeping views of the East Sea,' says tour guide Dylan Kim from koreagotours.com. 'It's free to enter and it's especially picturesque at sunrise. Then there's Gamcheon Culture Village, a colourful hillside village famous for its murals and quaint alleyways. It's a great spot for photography.'
Hanoi, Vietnam
Full disclosure – as Vietnam's capital city, there are plenty of opportunities to splash the cash here, but sticking to a budget here is surprisingly easy. One reason is its size – this is one of Asia's most walkable capitals, much smaller and easier to navigate than Ho Chi Minh, and with a logical layout and numerous landmarks which make it easy to find your bearings. Two of our favourite areas include the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. 'Hoan Kiem Lake is a lively yet peaceful area in the heart of the city,' says Chloe from Hanoi Local Tours. 'There are lots of free local performances, and it's a great spot for people-watching. In the Old Quarter, you'll find dozens of food stalls serving food, which is delicious, authentic and incredibly affordable.
Hanoi in Vietnam. Photo / Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash
Jakarta, Indonesia
One of the main reasons Jakarta makes the cut is its wonderfully cheap public transport. 'Hop on the MRT or on a TransJakarta bus – these buses are clean, cool, and ridiculously cheap,' says Wibi Hananto, a manager at our favourite boutique crash-pad, 25hours Hotel The Oddbird. 'They'll take you across the city without eating into your satay fund. There's simply no need to splurge on rideshares when Jakarta's public transport is this easy.' Its markets are another reason Jakarta is a hit with budget travellers. 'Blok M Square and Santa Modern Market are where the good stuff's at,' says Wibi. 'Think vintage finds and street food, and stalls that double as great Instagram backdrops.' As for the go-to snack? Kerak Telor – an old-school favourite made with sticky rice, egg, coconut, and a sprinkle of crispy shallots.
Singapore. Photo / Unsplash
Singapore
Finally, a wildcard entry, but one we feel is justified. Yes, Singapore is, in many ways, one of Asia's most expensive urban destinations, although it can also be much more affordable than many realise. Take its super cheap hawker centres, home to Michelin guide-listed street food vendors, or its great bike share scheme, Hello Ride. Single journeys on these sky-blue bikes start from $0.64. As for where to head for some free fun? Peck Lin, co-founder of Singaporean ice cream brand Udders, has some advice. 'Top on my list would be the Singapore Botanic Gardens,' says Peck. 'It's an admission-free, Unesco-listed oasis in downtown Singapore, metres from Orchard Rd. I also love the waterfront Esplanade area for the free performances, especially during weekends.' Finally, if you love sport, prepare to be shocked by the cost of tickets for the Singapore GP, in October. A three-day grandstand pass for the event starts from $678, and to put that into perspective, a three-day general entry ticket for Silverstone starts at $846.
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The Spinoff
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- The Spinoff
A bock-by-block review of Cuba Street
Take a walk down Wellington's most colourful street with The Spinoff's Wellington editor Joel MacManus. From the bucket fountain to the rainbow crossing, Cuba Street is home to culture and controversy. While it's not that long – just 925m – each block offers a different flavour. Here's what to explore and expect on each one. Webb Street to Karo Drive This is the crunchy end of Cuba Street. If it were a person, it'd be your aunt with the flowy pants who smells like incense and loves yoga. Case in point: this is where you'll find The Nut Store, a brick-and-mortar retail store that only sells bags of gourmet nuts and magazines about growing nuts. Somehow it has been running for well over a decade. Across the road, you'll find Good Housekeeping, a sustainable homewares store. I've never bought anything there, but I like it because it smells nice. It's always worth stopping in at Thistle Hall, a community gallery with a constantly rotating display of art exhibitions and classes. They offer yoga, knitting and dance classes and are also home to a guitar society. The last time I visited, two Irish Mammies tried to feed me pumpkin soup, which I think was some form of performance art. Karo Drive to Abel Smith Street As you cross Karo Drive, you enter Cuba Street's chillout zone, a peaceful respite past the roar of State Highway 1 traffic, but before the busier high-foot-traffic areas. At Te Whare Manaaki o Toda, a community space associated with the Buddhist centre, you'll find a contemporary art gallery with displays usually themed around Zen and inner peace. Over the road, Heyday Beer is one of the best spots in town to sip a cold one and relax on a sunny day. If you're not in a rush, take your time perusing the Mary Potter Hospice Shop. Cuba Street is famous for its op shops. Mary Potter is the cheapest and has the widest selection. It's a classic charity shop with classic charity shop prices, racks of clothes, books, knick-knacks and assorted things. It's the kind of place where it's easy to lose track of time. Abel Smith Street to Vivian Street The third block of Cuba Street is a foodie's dream with a fantastic range of eateries from cheap street food spots to gourmet restaurants. If there's one cuisine you have to try on any visit to Wellington, it's Malaysian. Wellington has one of the strongest Malaysian food scenes outside the Asian continent. And that's not just a personal reckon. To learn more about how Wellington became a cornucopia of Malaysian food, read this story by Preyanka Gothanayagi. On this block, you'll find Satay Malaysia which topped The Spinoff's ranking of Wellington's roti canai combos. My favourite Malaysian spot for a sit-down dinner or small BYO is Rasa Malaysia (get the Murtabak). If you're not in the mood for Malaysian food, consider Wellington Seamarket for the freshest fish and chips in the city, Nolita for creamy vegan pasta, El Matador for tapas and steak, Ombra for classic Italian – or for a bougie dinner on the corporate card, check out Logan Brown or Liberty. Vivian Street to Ghuznee Street On the corner of Vivian Street there are two benches dedicated to icons of Wellington's Takatāpui Rainbow community, Chrissy Witoko and Carmen Rupe, who owned businesses and performed in clubs in this area when it was Wellington's red light district. It's a good idea to take a seat and rest your legs here, because there's plenty of exploring to do on this block. This is where you'll find the best range of second hand clothing stores: Frutti, Huha, Daddy Vintage, Tangent, Perfect Circle, Ziggurat, Hunters & Collectors, Comrades, and my personal favourite, Spacesuit. Music lovers can take their time picking through the boxes at Slow Boat Records and explore Flying Nun Record Store for the latest releases from great Kiwi bands. In the evening, make sure to catch a gig at San Fran – even better if it's someone you've never heard of before. You'll need some fuel for further thrifting, so make sure to check out Fred's, the sandwich hotspot that always seems to have lines out the door. Get caffeinated at Midnight Espresso, or wet your whistle at the Cuba Street Tavern. Ghuznee Street to Dixon Street When you think of Cuba Street, this is probably the bit that comes to mind. The main show. The pedestrian mall. My favourite thing to do on this block is to simply spend time on the street. Sit in the sun, watch the crowds go by, applaud a street performer, avoid the people handing out religious pamphlets, and weep at the majestic glory of the bucket fountain. The popularity of the pedestrian mall means some of the weirder shops have been priced out by chain stores, but there are plenty of interesting independent retailers. Check out Graphic for comic books and graphic novels, Wellington Apothecary for oils, candles and skincare, and Abstract Design for an eclectic selection of wall art and hanging decorations. Cuba Mall is an increasingly popular nightlife destination, particularly among punters who prefer a lively chat rather than a raging boogie down Courtenay Place. JJ Murphy & Co and Hotel Bristol are longstanding favourites for a classic pint and some pool. Loosies Superette, with its downstairs Saloon Bar, is a popular new hotspot. The Spinoff's food columnist Nick Iles described The Ram as his ' dream pub ' and in-the-know locals flock to Dee's Place, a tucked-away whiskey bar with no sign on the door. Left Bank A tributary tucked off to the side of Cuba Mall, Left Bank is a wondrous secret world which The Spinoff ranked as Wellington's best laneway. Gritty but artsy, private but distinctly urban, Left Bank is my favourite part of Cuba Street. The real star of Left Bank is Pegasus Books, which topped yet another Spinoff ranking; Wellington's best second-hand book stores. Pegasus Books is a work of mystery and mayhem, with an enormous trove of literature that spills out onto the street, shelves stacked so high that you need ladders to access half the books on offer, and a maze of a layout that seems to go on forever like a Tardis made of wood and paper. I stop in at Pegasus Books every time I'm in the area and end up buying something about 50% of the time. While you're exploring Left Bank, it's also worth checking out The Oatery, a cafe specialising in porridge and muesli. Cuba Street Social is possibly the coolest barbershop in Wellington, and I am absolutely obsessed with the Ethiopian cuisine at Mother of Coffee. Dixon Street to Manners Street At Dixon Street, you'll find Wellington's rainbow crossing, installed in 2018 as a symbol of support to the city's queer community – the green pedestrian crossing signal depicts Carmen Rupe strutting her stuff. Adjacent to the crossing is the aluminium sculpture Umbrella by Peter Kundycki. First installed on lower Cuba Street in 1990 and moved to this spot in 1997, it is a colourful reference to the city's high rainfall that has taken on greater meaning to the queer community as a symbol of shelter and protection. This block is pretty short and the real action here is on Dixon Street, which has experienced a hospo resurgence thanks to a new boardwalk and parklets (on-street carparks that have been converted to outdoor seating with grass and trees). 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It's a site that speaks to everything that makes Cuba Street special. This is a street that stands at the forefront of change, embraces differences, and encourages people to stand out.
NZ Herald
2 days ago
- NZ Herald
Eight of the cheapest Asian city break destinations
Ipoh, Malaysia Unlike Malaysia's capital, Ipoh, a pocket-sized city in northwestern Malaysia, remains wonderfully affordable – double rooms in many of its quaint boutique hotels cost under $53 a night, and guided tours of the limestone caves surrounding the city start at around $33. We grilled Janice Young, co-founder of Explore Ipoh, about her favourite admission-free spots. 'Han Chin Pet Soo is a small heritage museum run by volunteers, and the Kong Fook Ngam cave temple has a massive tunnel system,' says Janice, who recommends fuelling up on her favourite snack. 'Ipoh is famous for taufu fa – a cheap, simple dessert comprising a block of tofu in sweet syrup,' she says. In Ipoh, a heritage museum is run entirely by local volunteers. Photo / Unsplash Bangkok, Thailand Despite being Thailand's capital, Bangkok can be surprisingly cheap. We're huge fans of both its BTS Skytrain and MRT railway networks (fares start from around $0.71), and its river taxis offer great value, too – single fares on the Chao Phraya Express Boat start from $0.81. And while the city has numerous observatories from which to take in the view, they often charge hefty fees. Suzy at Co Van Kessel, which offers guided cycling tours of Chinatown, suggests an alternative approach. 'Head to the top floor of the ICONSIAM mall for stunning views over Chao Phraya River,' she says. 'It's free, and a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.' As for Suzy's go-to snack for travellers on a budget? 'Try khanom buang – crispy pancakes. These delicious little treats, often made with shredded coconut, cost just a few baht.' Want a big city adventure on a shoestring? These Asian destinations have you covered. Photo / Unsplash Hoi An, Vietnam Cheaper and less crowded than Ho Chi Minh, canal-streaked Hoi An, on Vietnam's south-central coastline, is a Unesco-listed gem with a rich history and a beautifully preserved old town. Nothing beats a stroll along its cobbled laneways, illuminated by Chinese lanterns and lined with ancient buildings that date back to its heyday as a trading port. Food, accommodation and souvenirs here are incredibly cheap, and one of the best spots for retail therapy is the Nguyen Hoang Street night market, where you can feast on local snacks such as banh xoai (mango cake) and stock up on souvenirs – we recommend the beautiful ceramic teapots. Hoi An. Photo / Unsplash Busan, South Korea This coastal city might not be on many travellers' radars – unlike Seoul – but that's precisely the reason it's so much cheaper. It's another place where public transport deserves a shout-out – a one-day pass for its fantastic metro system costs just $7. It's also packed with historic sites, many of which are free to visit. 'Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of Korea's few seaside temples, with serene Buddhist architecture and sweeping views of the East Sea,' says tour guide Dylan Kim from 'It's free to enter and it's especially picturesque at sunrise. Then there's Gamcheon Culture Village, a colourful hillside village famous for its murals and quaint alleyways. It's a great spot for photography.' Hanoi, Vietnam Full disclosure – as Vietnam's capital city, there are plenty of opportunities to splash the cash here, but sticking to a budget here is surprisingly easy. One reason is its size – this is one of Asia's most walkable capitals, much smaller and easier to navigate than Ho Chi Minh, and with a logical layout and numerous landmarks which make it easy to find your bearings. Two of our favourite areas include the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. 'Hoan Kiem Lake is a lively yet peaceful area in the heart of the city,' says Chloe from Hanoi Local Tours. 'There are lots of free local performances, and it's a great spot for people-watching. In the Old Quarter, you'll find dozens of food stalls serving food, which is delicious, authentic and incredibly affordable. Hanoi in Vietnam. Photo / Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash Jakarta, Indonesia One of the main reasons Jakarta makes the cut is its wonderfully cheap public transport. 'Hop on the MRT or on a TransJakarta bus – these buses are clean, cool, and ridiculously cheap,' says Wibi Hananto, a manager at our favourite boutique crash-pad, 25hours Hotel The Oddbird. 'They'll take you across the city without eating into your satay fund. There's simply no need to splurge on rideshares when Jakarta's public transport is this easy.' Its markets are another reason Jakarta is a hit with budget travellers. 'Blok M Square and Santa Modern Market are where the good stuff's at,' says Wibi. 'Think vintage finds and street food, and stalls that double as great Instagram backdrops.' As for the go-to snack? Kerak Telor – an old-school favourite made with sticky rice, egg, coconut, and a sprinkle of crispy shallots. Singapore. Photo / Unsplash Singapore Finally, a wildcard entry, but one we feel is justified. Yes, Singapore is, in many ways, one of Asia's most expensive urban destinations, although it can also be much more affordable than many realise. Take its super cheap hawker centres, home to Michelin guide-listed street food vendors, or its great bike share scheme, Hello Ride. Single journeys on these sky-blue bikes start from $0.64. As for where to head for some free fun? Peck Lin, co-founder of Singaporean ice cream brand Udders, has some advice. 'Top on my list would be the Singapore Botanic Gardens,' says Peck. 'It's an admission-free, Unesco-listed oasis in downtown Singapore, metres from Orchard Rd. I also love the waterfront Esplanade area for the free performances, especially during weekends.' Finally, if you love sport, prepare to be shocked by the cost of tickets for the Singapore GP, in October. A three-day grandstand pass for the event starts from $678, and to put that into perspective, a three-day general entry ticket for Silverstone starts at $846.
NZ Herald
6 days ago
- NZ Herald
10 Best luxury lodges in the world for your dream holiday splurge
Tierra Patagonia. Photo / Tierra Patagonia FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY The Lindis, New Zealand Longing to trade the everyday for the extraordinary? This lodge in New Zealand's dramatic high country hits the spot. Take your activities list to the next level with a private caviar experience (because why not?), an exhilarating heli-ski tour or a gourmet Champagne picnic for two. Surrounded by a mesmerising landscape of mountains and wild tundra, The Lindis caters to a maximum of just 15 guests, so your romantic moments won't be gate-crashed by a crowd. If your budget is tight, the compact, standalone accommodation located away from the main lodge is cheaper and includes similar amenities to the more expensive rooms. FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL GROUPS Saffire Freycinet, Australia Dinner is usually an elegant affair at Saffire Freycinet, but some guests snarl and grunt, shoving each other out of the way to reach the most delectable pieces of meat. Given how good Saffire's food is, the enthusiasm of the Tasmanian Devils in the one-hectare devil conservation enclosure at Saffire is no surprise. Touring the facility is one of a smorgasbord of included activities for guests of all ages. Fancy yourself as a budding apiarist? Sign up for a beekeepers' experience, or you could join a guided hike through Freycinet National Park. For groups with a competitive spirit (or who just want to feel like Robin Hood), archery awaits. Saffire Freycinet has its own Tasmanian Devil enclosure as part of its experiences. Photo / Saffire Freycinet FOR AN EXPERIENTIAL STAY Ilimanaq Lodge, Greenland Instead of counting sheep to help you sleep, you can count icebergs under the midnight sun at Ilimanaq Lodge, which sits on the Unesco-listed Ilulissat Icefiord. Some of the country's oldest buildings have been beautifully restored to house the restaurant and reception area, and there is a focus on solar power and sustainability. Cultural immersion forms a major part of this lodge experience, and guests are warmly welcomed by those in the tiny surrounding town with a population of around 50 people. If you want to truly learn about Greenland, Ilimanaq Lodge offers a deep dive into the local way of life. Dinner at the Ilimanaq Lodge restaurant. Photo / World of Greenland FOR EXPLORING OFF THE BEATEN PATH Shipwreck Lodge, Namibia Set yourself adrift on the sands of Namibia's Skeleton Coast at Shipwreck Lodge, a whimsical collection of boat-style villas facing the distant Atlantic Ocean. You won't mind being 'shipwrecked' at this eco-conscious accommodation, which is popular with travellers who enjoy getting off the beaten track, and photographers who come here to capture the dramatic, ever-shifting sand dunes and starlit skies. The main lodge is a hub for socialising, sundowners and swapping tales of the day's adventures, from tours of the Mowe Bay seal colony to exploring the historic shipwrecks that give this extraordinary place its name. Shipwreck Lodge. Photo / Shipwreck Lodge FOR NATURE AND CULTURE Tenkū no Mori, Japan Forget your worries (and your wardrobe) at Tenkū no Mori on Kyushu Island, where each of the five secluded villas has its own traditional Japanese onsen. Accommodation is spread across 60ha of wilderness so you can enjoy an authentic, au naturel bathing experience away from prying eyes. It's just you, soothing warm water, the whispers of nature and some squirrels. Add private dining while a flowing river washes your ankles, and you'll get the essence of Tenkū, which takes the Japanese ethos of connection to the environment to the next level. Tenku No Mori. Photo / Tenku No Mori FOR THE ECO-CONSCIOUS Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal The beauty of Nepal's dramatic jagged peaks might literally take your breath away at Shinta Mani Mustang, as the lodge sits at 3000m above sea level. Each of the 29 rooms features mountain views, and the famous aesthetic of acclaimed hotel designer Bill Bensley. Private tours immerse you in the Nepalese way of life, with activities like hikes, lunch at a local's house and visiting a hilltop monastery, and actively support the local community. If you've been trying to justify a longer lodge stay, this one has a five-night minimum, starting at $15,795 for two. Shinta Mani Mustang exterior. Photo / Shinta Mani Mustang FOR ACTIVE FAMILIES Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, British Columbia Grab your kids and prepare to get wild at the family-owned Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in the Great Bear Rainforest, with a curated range of adventurous activities led by local guides. Start your day with a kayak trip or the thrill of bear spotting (from a safe distance, of course), followed by a soak in a hot tub next to a roaring waterfall or a sauna on the lake if your kids are older. With no mobile phone reception and limited Wi-Fi, this lodge also includes actual conversations, shared laughter and memories that'll last a lifetime. Nimmo Bay floating hot tub. Photo / Jeremy Koreski FOR FINDING INNER PEACE Amankora Paro, Bhutan Embrace the spirituality and beauty of Bhutan at Amankora Paro, which is a 20-minute drive from the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery. The lodge's design pays tribute to Bhutan's rich heritage, mirroring the traditional fortresses that punctuate the dramatic landscape. Speaking of the landscape, you'll dine with an uninterrupted view of Drukgyel Dzong, one of the country's most celebrated archaeological treasures. Dishes span Western, Indian and Bhutanese cuisine, and tours of a nearby market provide an insight into the local food. Hiking to the awe-inspiring Tiger's Nest Monastery is as rewarding for the soul as it is challenging for the legs. Amankora Paro is a short drive from Bhutan's iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Photo / Amankora FOR A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME SPLURGE COMO Laucala Island, Fiji You know that feeling when you're on holiday and you're constantly, subtly, tallying up the cost of things? 'If I have one more of those fancy cocktails, is it really worth it?' Well, at COMO Laucala Island, you can bid farewell to such trivial concerns as everything is included. Given a stay costs around $65,000 for four nights for two, it would want to be. There are three villa categories, with Plateau being the most affordable (relatively speaking), followed by Plantation and Seagrass. The latter are further from the restaurant and other facilities, but those extra steps are your ticket to direct beach access and a prime cliff-edge location.
