There are lots of interesting places much closer to Singapore than Japan and Australia.

Consider Bali: accessible culture, lovely scenery, beaches

Central java: Borobudur, largest Buddhist Monument in the world, Prambanan, a Hindu temple complex, the Ramayana Ballet, gorgeous terraced vivd green fields on the drive to the Dieng Plateau photos at http://www.marlandc.com/Java2012/index.html

Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo): Fly to Kuching, a charming riverside town, explore the town, get out to some of the nearby parks.

Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia: Lovely historic multicultural city, wonderful (and safe) hawker food. photos: http://www.marlandc.com/Bangkok2006/Penang/index.htm

You don't need a tour for any of these places. All are safe and easy to do o your own.

Phuket is an international beach resort. April isn't the best time to go.

What are your interests? That can help us help you decide.

bali would be high on my list...

some areas of phuket might please you..

Another vote for Bali: Nearby, inexpensive flights, lots of choices in accommodation, plenty to do on your own, plus many tours and group activities if you seek company. Excellent weather in April.

Warm greetings Susan and early congrats on your impending business trip to our fine home of Singapore; special part of the world. (Any chance you will be arriving and departing via my primary business travel carrier, Singapore Airlines?) Before ending up with a humble home in SIN, the Four Seasons was my main Singapore business travel hotel; hope your lodgings are every bit as memorable.

Wholeheartedly concur with the Bali suggestions. Been a while, but have cherished each and every stay. Depending upon your budget, honoured to offer accommodation suggestions.

Have fun with your planning; very happy for you. Much more to offer later, as a bit rushed on this Friday flying day back home to SIN.

Early and warm weekend wishes to you and all,

macintosh (robert)


... Singapore Girl, You're a Great Way to Fly ...

The only thing which is not nice in Bali are the beaches.

Consider paying a visit to pensinsular Malaysia's east coast, which is laid back and has some great beaches:
http://www.molon.de/galleries/Malaysia/EastCoast/

Thank you for all the suggestions. I'm glad I wrote, because I'm leaning toward Malaysia and/or Bali based on your recommendations.
To answer the question about what I like to do: I'd like to see the highlights, mostly historical/UNESCO sites, taste the local food/visit markets and also like outdoor activities (hiking/beach)
And yes, I am fortunate to be flying Singapore Air both ways!

Thanks again for your help!

"historical/UNESCO sites, taste the local food/visit markets" sounds like Georgetown, Penang to me!

Fantastic beaches in Langkawi, Malaysia. Not much else there, however; very quiet.

Up to two weeks coming up in Feb/March next year in Singapore. Is it really that easy to fly to Bali? I've been looking at Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia for side-trips. Guess I'll have to start studying up on Bali too!