Didn't plan a weekend vacation? Here are 4 easy day trips near S'pore

SINGAPORE - It's the long weekend and if you didn't take the opportunity to take a short vacation in the region, don't worry.

For a start, it may be the Year Of The Goat but it is also the year of the long weekend.

But for something more immediate, here are some worthy alternatives that do not require a plane ticket.

These day trips will help you escape the concrete jungle (and your inquisitive relatives) during this festive weekend.

1. Pulau Ubin

Why not visit one of Singapore's last kampongs at Pulau Ubin. Reflect on the simple life while you trek. Or even explore the island on a bicycle.

How to get there: Simply take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal (formerly Changi Jetty) near the Changi Village Hawker Centre.

Cost of bumboat: $2.50/person

Cost of full-day rental of bicycle: About $8

2. St John's Island

For another taste of nature (who says that there is no such thing in Singapore), head on down to St John's Island.

It is teeming with marine life - including beautiful coral reefs and even the occasional dolphin sighting. There's always something to look out for.

The swimming lagoons are also perfect for a nice, refreshing dip - especially with the hot weather.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Marina South Pier to St. John's Island.

Cost: $18 (for a return trip)

3. Lazarus Island

If you crave the beach, then Lazarus Island will tide you over.

There is little else to do other than laze around and swim. Make sure you bring a decent picnic basket along.

When we say "little else to do", there are no shops. No 7-Eleven. Take what you need with you.

And that naturally means, take it all back with you too. Keep nature beautiful.

Of course, if you have posh friends with their own boat, even better.

How to get there: Take the ferry from St John's Island and it is a scenic 20-minute walk from there.

4. Green Corridor

For the healthy alternative, burn the calories gained eating pineapple tarts and bak kwa along the Green Corridor.

The trail along Singapore's old railway line runs from Woodlands Road in the North all the way to Tanjong Pagar in the South.

It's a long trail so there are several entry points.

The Green Corridor website has a list of walking routes.

Don't forget to wear decent walking shoes and take enough water with you. If you know you are like candy to mosquitoes, you'll find repellent handy too.

This article was first published on Feb 20, 2015.
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