Winter in Asia may bring to mind lingering sunshine and holiday on the beach, but it’s also an alluring time to travel to the colder regions to get you in the holiday spirit
With travel options to soak up the winter sun or skip the crowds in chilly locales, here are the top 10 destinations to check out this holiday season, whether you like warm or cold weather:
1. Siargao, the Philippines
Where to stay: Nay Palad Hideaway
Flight time from Hong Kong: 7 hours (via Cebu or Manila)
Average winter temperature: 27°C
Voted the best island in the world by Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2019, the tear-shaped island of Siargao was once a hidden gem for in-the-know surfers.
With unspoilt landscapes such as Sohoton Cove and Sugba Lagoon just a boat ride away, Siargao also offers unparalleled water activities including stand-up paddle boarding through ancient mangroves and cliff jumping inside a jungle cave.
Tatler tip: The freshly baked coconut bread (filled with coconut meat) in General Luna (opposite to the church) is the best morning snack or post-surfing refuel on the island.