What destination near Singapore during monsoon season?

Hi there, We’re visiting our daughter in Singapore during All Saints' Day. The plan is to spend 3-4 days there to enjoy time with her and explore Singapore, which we’ve never seen before. After that, we’d like to spend 8 days somewhere not too far away—mixing sightseeing and maybe some beach time. We’ve already been to Bali, Thailand, and northern Vietnam. This’ll be starting October 20th, so, let’s just say it’s not the best season for Southeast Asia—I know, with the monsoon, we’re fully aware.

Any destination ideas for this time of year? I was thinking Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi?), Borneo (8 days?), or the Philippines, but I think that might be a bit too far for just 8 days.

Thanks for your thoughts!

Hi there,

Simply put, Malaysia. A loop covering Melaka (1 day), Kuala Lumpur (2–3 days), and Penang (2–3 days—there are beaches) seems like a great 8-day trip. If you’ve already been to Thailand, I’d say you can skip Langkawi.

Happy travels!

Thanks! What worries me a bit is the rain at the end of October in that region, doesn’t it?

Oh, there’s not much you can do about that. However, the rains are short (1 to 2 hours) but intense (torrential downpours). Bring an umbrella with you—the weather changes very quickly. And if it rains, visit a museum or head to a kopitiam while you wait.

Have a great trip.