[UPDATED 2 Jan 2020]
It's the second day of 2020 and you know what that means? It's time to start planning your vacation for the year ? If you're wondering what Singapore's public holidays are in 2020, we've got just the guide you need!
Credit: Giphy
Well, if you're like us and you can't wait to plan your trips for 2020, this guide will tell you where you should go for a getaway this year! There are 7 official long weekends from Singapore's Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) official website. In this article, we'll also be giving you 2 more ideas so you can take a few days of leave and end up with an extended long weekend and we've also included next year's New Year holiday because it's never too early to plan your vacay ? So, if you're ready, let's get straight to planning!
P.S. Are you planning a big trip this year? Check out these 14 best Muslim-friendly destinations you have to visit in 2020 ?
1. Chinese New Year - Bali, Indonesia
Public holiday: 25-27 Jan (Sat-Mon)
Total days off: 3
It's the first long weekend of the year and you're probably already looking for a breather. What better way for a respite than by going on a beach getaway? And Bali is always a good idea ☺️
P.S. If you're looking for a longer beach vacay and a romantic getaway with your spouse, our 5D4N Muslim-friendly romantic Bali itinerary will be perfect for you.
Explore the island's well-known beaches like Kuta and Seminyak, go off the beaten path at Balangan or Sanur beaches, or even take a short trip to the nearby Nusa Penida Island.
Take Insta-worthy shots at Tegalalang rice fields or Pura Lempuyang for that famous "gateway to Heaven" shot. Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by visiting the iconic Uluwatu sea temple or watching the traditional Balinese Kecak fire dance.
#HHWT Tip: Book your stay in Bali at one of these 10 awesome family-friendly villas!
Of course, what's a trip to Bali without trying out authentic and yummy Balinese cuisine? We've rounded up 18 Muslim-friendly eateries where you can get the best of Bali's gastronomic offerings ?
P.S. Looking to get the best out of Bali? We've got 12 amazing things you have to do when you're on the island!
2. Good Friday - Bangkok, Thailand
Public holiday: 10 Apr (Fri)
Total days off: 3
It's impossible not to include Bangkok in any vacation list! And the best part about Good Friday this year is that it'll be around the same time as the Thai New Year, Songkran (13 Apr). So, it'll be interesting to see how the Thai locals prepare for the festivities leading up to the holiday. If you have more leave to spare, we'd even recommend that you stay and participate in their famous new year water fight!
Credit: Ratchada Train Night Market on Facebook
Besides Songkran, a visit to Bangkok isn't complete without visiting one of their many malls and street markets - whether it's the iconic Chatuchak (check out our tips for conquering Chatuchak like a pro!), the hipster Asiatique, train markets or finding bargain buys at Pratunam. Don't forget its amazing malls too like MBK, Platinum Fashion Mall, Central World and more!
For some sightseeing, we'd recommend heading to the Grand Palace and the Jim Thompson House. Alternatively, you could also visit a floating market near the city. Our all-in-one Muslim-friendly guide to Bangkok will be perfect for planning your trip!
#HHWT Tip: Your Bangkok trip won't be complete without satisfying your Thai food cravings at one of these 23 halal eateries!
3. Labour Day - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Public holiday: 1 May (Fri)
Total days off: 3
Ramadan's just starting by this time and you're probably looking for last-minute raya outfits or just itching to go somewhere convenient. Kuala Lumpur fits the bill!
Slot in some time for raya shopping at Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (Jalan TAR) or Wisma Jakel which is filled with hundreds of shops selling baju kurung, Muslimah wear, hijabs, home furnishings, fabrics and more.
Besides that, you can also swing by one of the many Ramadan Bazaars around the city like the Masjid India & Jalan TAR bazaar, Kampung Baru, TTDI and more.
#HHWT Tip: If you're looking for somewhere cosy to break fast, here's a list of 22 best hotel restaurants that'll fill your tummy!
But if you wish to take it slow, we recommend booking a stay at one of the few hotels that's connected to shopping malls. Not only will you have an awesome time doing some shopping at the malls, but you can also head back to your hotel and recharge whenever you want since it's Ramadan. We've rounded up 10 top hotels which are connected to shopping malls in KL ☺️ Most hotels will also have sahur or iftar buffet prepared for you, so it's really convenient too!
P.S. Planning your honeymoon for the year? We've rounded up the top 12 romantic destinations for your 2020 honeymoon!
4. Vesak Day - Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Public holiday: 7 May (Thur)
When to take leave: 8 May (Fri)
Total days off: 4
Yogyakarta is the seat of the Javanese Sultanate (which still exists by the way!) and the city is not only filled with beautiful cultural spots, but also plenty of shopping spots, Instagrammable sights and good food! The city comes alive during Ramadan especially in the evenings leading up to iftar. Street vendors would set up stalls and you'd get to sample some local treats when you break fast ?
Since it's Vesak Day, this is also a good time to visit Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple! Challenge yourself by climbing up the steps to the top of the temple and witness a Vesak Day ritual procession where hundreds of devotees will visit the temple. As Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, tolerance and compassion, it'll be fascinating to learn about other religions and their beliefs so that we can strengthen our faith in Islam too.
Besides that, don't miss out on other stunning sights in Yogyakarta too like the Taman Sari Water Castle, the Kraton (palace), Kalibiru National Park, Timang Beach and more. Check out our 5D4N Yogyakarta itinerary for more!
5. Hari Raya Puasa - Staycation in Singapore
Public holiday: 24-25 May (Sun-Mon)
Total days off: 3
It's Hari Raya Puasa, and you'll probably be busy visiting your relatives, friends and attending open houses. But we get it - amidst all the raya frenzy, sometimes you just want to escape somewhere. Since you most possibly can't leave the country, we recommend squeezing in a staycation ?
Credit: Village Hotels & Residences on Facebook
Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or taking a short break with the family, you'll most probably be recharged after the good break and ready to do more raya visiting ? For those of you who can afford to leave the country just for a bit, you know you can always cross the causeway for a short escape! We've rounded up 11 incredible hotels in JB where you can let your hair down.
6. Hari Raya Haji - Ipoh, Malaysia
Public holiday: 31 July (Fri)
Total days off: 3
If you're not into spending Ramadan overseas, why not take a break during Hari Raya Haji if you're not planning on doing any visiting? For those of you looking for somewhere laidback with a good mix of things to do and yummy local food, head over to Ipoh ?
From the Instagrammable streets of Market Lane to nature spots like Kek Lok Tong Garden and one-of-a-kind attractions like Kellie's Castle, Ipoh will be a worthwhile getaway.
P.S. While you're already in Ipoh, why not extend your vacay and head over to Penang with our 4D3N road trip itinerary?
Not to mention that Ipoh is well-known for its local food so if you want to turn your Ipoh jaunt into a full foodie getaway, you can do that too! Check out this Ipoh food guide we have for the Muslim-friendly eateries you can't miss, or make your Ipoh trip all about food with our 3-day foodie Ipoh itinerary ?
The best part - there are direct flights from Singapore to Ipoh on Scoot or AirAsia or if you'd like, you can also take a leisurely 7-8 hour drive!
#HHWT Tip: Looking for more places to travel to during Hari Raya Haji? We've rounded up these 10 amazing getaways!
7. National Day - Alishan, Taiwan
Public holiday: 9-10 Aug (Sun-Mon)
Total days off: 3
It's August and while it's summer all year round in Singapore, somehow the mid-year seems a little hotter than usual. So, what better way to escape the heat than by heading to the Alishan mountain area in Taiwan? Known for its gorgeous sunrise views, tea plantations and nature trails, it'll be the perfect respite you need ?
Hop aboard the highlight of Alishan - the Forest Railway - and take in the breathtaking views along the way. Cross the famous Taiping Suspension Bridge, explore tea plantation trails, stay in one of the many Muslim-friendly homestays and more!
The best part about Alishan is that many homestays and restaurants provide halal food and prayer rooms, so you won't need to worry ? If you're wondering what to see and do in Alishan, our 3D2N Muslim-friendly itinerary will help you out!
#HHWT Tip: Get to Alishan conveniently by flying directly to Kaohsiung and then taking a 1.5-hour train ride to Alishan.
8. Combine Hari Raya Haji & National Day - Tokyo, Japan
Public holiday: 31 July (Fri) and 9-10 Aug (Sun-Mon)
When to take leave: 3-7 Aug (Mon-Fri)
Total days off: 11
Here's an idea - since the Olympics will be happening in Tokyo in 2020, you can soak in the festive atmosphere of the world's biggest sporting event! Happening between 24 July to 9 Aug, you can visit Tokyo during the Hari Raya Haji break, the National Day break or somewhere in between ☺️
P.S. Check out our 7D7N Tokyo Muslim-friendly itinerary!
Other than catching your favourite sports in action, don't miss out on the must-visit places in Tokyo like the Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa, Shinjuku, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Skytree and more! Make sure you have all the information you need before you visit by reading our Tokyo 2020 Olympics Guide.
The best part is, the Japanese government has also been ramping up efforts to make Tokyo more Muslim-friendly for the Olympics. Make sure you swing by one of the many halal eateries serving authentic Japanese cuisine like Japanese curry, sushi, ramen, BBQ and more ? And then do your prayers at the many prayer spaces near attractions around the city. Travelling with kids? You'd want to check out our 7D6N family-friendly Tokyo itinerary!
#HHWT Tip: If you're not planning on just staying in Tokyo during your vacay? Take a trip up north to the beautiful region of Tohoku! Our 6D5N Muslim-friendly Tohoku itinerary will be perfect!
9. Christmas Day - Busan, South Korea
Public holiday: 25 Dec (Fri)
Total days off: 3
With Singapore Airlines flying directly from Singapore to Busan, you won't need to transit in Seoul anymore! If you're an avid traveller to Korea, you'd most probably know Seoul in and out, so it's time to visit Busan next ?
From its incredible beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli to exploring vibrant spots like the Gamcheon Cultural Village and even majestic natural sights like Taejongdae, there's so much to explore in this coastal city. Our 4D3N Busan-Gyeongju Muslim-friendly itinerary is what you need for a getaway!
#HHWT Tip: Don't worry about looking for a place to eat in Busan - we've got you covered with 11 Muslim-friendly Busan restaurants near main attractions!
Don't miss out a visit to Jagalchi Market - South Korea's largest fish market - where you can feast on fresh seafood ? Afterwards, do some souvenir shopping at BIFF Square and then get a bird's eye view of Busan at Busan Tower. During Christmas, there are also many festivals and activities in Busan like the Busan Christmas Tree Festival, Haeundae Light Festival, Gwangan Bridge Light Show and the Illumia Light Festival. Busan is definitely perfect for a short but fulfilling vacation!
P.S. Conquer both Busan and Seoul with our 7D6N Muslim-friendly itinerary.
10. New Year's Day - Sydney, Australia
Public holiday: 1 Jan 2021 (Fri)
Total days off: 3
Start 2021 with a bang in Sydney, Australia! It's the first major city to greet the New Year with an annual fireworks display at the Sydney Harbour, where you'll also get a spectacular view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge ? With the New Year falling on a Friday, you can spend the long weekend in Sydney or better still, take an extra 2-3 days of leave!
While most of the world is facing harsh, cold winters, it's summer in Australia so this is your best chance to get the best out of Sydney's beaches. Head to the famous Bondi Beach for a therapeutic day out with the waves, or try the Coastal Walk along the cliffs from Bondi to Waverley. Our 6D5N Muslim-friendly Sydney itinerary would be perfect for you!
P.S. Check out these 12 Muslim-friendly eateries in Sydney!
Alternatively, you can also savour some fresh seafood or soak in the atmosphere at Darling Harbour or learn more about marine life at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. If you're feeling a little adventurous, then take a 90-minute road trip to the stunning Blue Mountains or go down south to Jervis Bay for its pristine beaches and meet the adorable bottlenose dolphins ?
#HHWT Tip: Planning a road trip around Sydney? We've rounded up 8 essential tips you'd need!
With so many destinations to explore, your 2020 travel list is all set! All that's left to do now is to start booking your flights, accommodation and snag those cheap deals before everyone else does ☺️