9 great CNY holiday destinations in Asia and beyond

You may still remember the travel headache that is CNY from last year, but another Spring Festival holiday is fast approaching. Domestic travel is a nightmare this time of year (fancy squeezing onto a packed train with what feels like the entire population of China? We didn't think so...), so cast your sights beyond the confines of the Middle Kingdom. From Jeju Island to Sydney, here are some last-minute holiday hotspots for your radar.

Roundtrip prices based on the week of 15-21 February 2018.

Jeju Island

Located just off the southern shores of Korea and a visa-free destination for Chinese citizens, this little island packs a miscellaneous mix of volcanic landscape, theme parks and local seafood restaurants, making it an entertaining and adventurous holiday option.

Return tickets around 2,500RMB.

Taipei

Over the past decade, Taipei has become a foodie haven in East Asia. Boasting food markets that open till late (Tonghua Night Market spearheading them all), Taipei has got the idea of fusion figured out. It's Japanese, Portuguese, Dutch, Spanish and Chinese all sizzling at the same time. But it's more than just food, this town is also loaded with history and culture – home to landmarks like the high-rising Taipei 101, the monumental Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and the National Palace Museum. 

Return ticket from Shanghai to Taipei around 3,400RMB.

Hong Kong

Give into steaming stacks of dim sum and cups of 'silk stocking' milk tea while getting a welcome dose of island air in Hong Kong. With mountains, beaches and a bustling nightlife, this port city is an all-rounder. Hike The Peak, take in the dynamic vistas and burn a stick of incense or two at Man Mo Temple for an auspicious new year.

Return tickets from 4,200RMB.

Tokyo

Tokyo is the perfect blend of chaos and calm and one of Asia's must-visit destinations. Just bear in mind, while it's not the most expensive place in Asia to travel, it's certainly a place that'll see you splashing out on food, hotels and kabuki theatre in no time – but the splurge is well worth it.

Return ticket to Tokyo around 4,400RMB.

Bangkok

Steer south for an injection of livelihood that won't burn the pockets. Winter is perhaps the best season to visit the capital city of Thailand, when you won't have to sweat like mad while taking in the historical marvels Bangkok has to offer. Be sure not to miss Ko Ratanakosin, the very cradle place of Bangkok studded with temples and royal palaces.

Return flights around 4,770RMB.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's capital city is a melting pot of Islamic, Chinese, Malay and South Asian cultures. Here, it's all about the food. Chow down on apam balik (spongey Malay pancakes) for breakfast in the Pekan Sungai Besi district. Come lunchtime, go for a wholesome bowl of bak kut teh (pork rib soup) paired with a generous serving of mustard green rice. For dinner, don't miss the city’s bustling night markets – the most popular is Jalan Alor. 

Return tickets from 5,600RMB.

Singapore

Singapore is a one-of-a-kind destination, often associated futuristic skylines and landmarks. The young country has surpassed centuries of colonial history to become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Asia, balanced with a seafaring Peranakan culture that dishes up home-style beef brisket rendang and ngoh hiang, best paired with a pint of locally brewed Tiger.

Return flights around 5,800RMB.

Sri Lanka

Think dangling your feet off the train while soaking in the dramatic vistas of Ella Gap, or hiking up the heights to see the ruins of Anuradhapura. Sri Lanka is a tropical dreamland offering a great show of the wonderful things mother nature has to offer.

Return ticket to Colombo from 7,020RMB.

Sydney

If you're chasing the summer sun, Sydney's the spot for you. Catch some waves at Bondi Beach, get those Insta-worthy shots of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and take in some culture at one of the many theatres or museums – don't miss 'Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Return tickets from 7,700RMB.

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