Top 10 CNY destinations for Singapore families

This article was originally published on the flight comparison site Skyscanner.

Skyscanner has seen a surge in travel during the Chinese New Year period from Singapore. This trend has been observed for the last three years with most families travelling out to nearby destinations. With the first day of Chinese New Year happening on 19 February 2015 (Thursday), families will be able to enjoy a 4-day long weekend - ideal for a short vacation with your loved ones!

The statistics have shown that a growing number of families are choosing to spend the holidays with their family members and children away from Singapore. This year, Skyscanner reveals the top 10 destinations that Singapore families are travelling to during the Chinese New Year 2015 period.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok has remained as the top destination to go to during the Chinese New Year period. Famed for cheap shopping and delicious food, it is no wonder that Bangkok tops this year's chart as well with two of Singaporean's favourite national pastime.

Bangkok is also slightly over 2 hours away which makes it relatively bearable for families travelling with children. Go face to face with fascinating underwater creatures at the Siam Ocean World, fly a Boeing 737 or rub shoulders with your kids' favourite celebrities at the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Siam, Bangkok is definitely the place to go for the family to enjoy!

2. Penang, Malaysia

Located just 90-minutes away by plane, Penang is a culturally-rich city and the fourth largest island in Malaysia. Immerse yourself in the heritage of this city (and not to mention good food) while you get in touch with nature as you explore the beautiful gardens of Penang.

Georgetown is the place to go to soak in the energy and dynamism of this city. If you are travellling with children, stay at the Hard Rock Hotel and watch as your children have fun with the water slides. Take in the sights from the Penang Botanic Gardens with a leisurely walk or simply hop on the mini-train that will take you around instead. Otherwise, enjoy the zen and peace at Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Reward yourself with delicious food at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre at the end of the day at one of Penang's most famous eating district.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Famed as the Island of the Gods, Bali is just a short flight away from Singapore. Enjoy endless sunshine, tranquil waters, delicious food and the famous Balinese hospitality with your loved ones this holiday.

With a huge range of accommodation options to choose from, families travelling to Bali can be assured that they will find the perfect accommodation here. Ranging from luxury hotels to traditional villas with private pools, this is a great retreat for the family to bond.

If you are worried about getting around, hire a local guide (for a nominal fee) who will take you around the beautiful island. Take your children to Waterbom, Bali's best waterslide park with over fifteen waterslides that cater to different risk appetites. Explore the beautiful gardens at the Bali Treetop Adventure Park or take a leisure walk around the rice fields in Ubud (don't forget the sunset!). Learn to snorkel and explore the marine life in tamed waters or have a romantic dinner by the beach; Bali is the place to go for the whole family to enjoy.

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The federal capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is well-known to most Singaporeans.

Marvel at the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers or enjoy shopping at KLCC and Pavilion, there's something to do for everyone in Kuala Lumpur. Families travelling with children can check out the Aquaria KLCC. For those craving more excitement, head down to Sunway Lagoon and spend the whole day there at the water theme park or wildlife park. If you do not wish to travel too far out, the Farm in the City offers you the opportunity to get up close and personal with free roaming animals.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Known for beautiful packing, intricate delicacies and orderliness, Tokyo is no stranger to the travellers at heart. February is a great time to visit Tokyo as the weather starts to warm up from winter.

Bring your child (or your inner-child) out at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disney Sea (for those with older children). Walk around the compounds of Imperial Palace and Gardens to enjoy stunning views of the palace. For the adrenaline-junkies, head down to the amusement park at Tokyo Dome City. The National Museum of Nature and Science also offers great learning opportunities and kid-friendly exhibits.

6. Hong Kong, China

Home to delicious dim sums and famous Michelin star restaurants, Hong Kong is a beautiful combination of old and new.

Besides eating and shopping that we already know, check out the Hong Kong Disneyland (the closest Disneyland to Singapore) for an amazing experience or go to the famous Ocean Park for animal encounters (and less crowd). Head up to The Peak in the evening via The Peak Tram to enjoy impressive views of the city or watch the Symphony of Lights from Victoria Harbour. Whatever you choose, there certainly is a range of activities to do here with your family in Hong Kong.

7. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is the ultimate foodie haven with numerous night markets, street food and dazzling cafes.

Parents travelling with children can go down to the Taipei Zoo to look at the pandas and elephants. To get in touch with nature further, take the Maokong Gondola for a beautiful ride up the hilltops. For those craving a little history, make your way to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and have a walk around the massive compound. Take in the sights of this beautiful city from Taipei 101 and don't forget the night markets for shopping and food.

8. Kuching, Malaysia

Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia with plenty of opportunities to reconnect with nature.

Walk along the promenade of Kuching Waterfront and watch as the tambang boats go by. Walk through mangrove swamps and beautiful beaches at the Bako National Park or visit a traditional Iban Longhouse built on stilts. For something even more adventurous, take a boat into the world's largest limestone cave at Niah Caves National Park.

9. Manila, Philippines

Manila is the capital city of Philippines and one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Be a part of the underwater world at Manila Ocean Park where you can walk with the diverse creatures of the sea. Walk over to Museo Pambata to satisfy your children's' desire for knowledge at this interactive museum. For those craving a little more relaxation, watch the sunset at Manila Bay with a drink in hand.

10. Shanghai, China

Shanghai is one of the world's fastest developing cities in the world, combining a mix of modernism and traces of the past.

Roam the underwater tunnels at the Aquaria 21 and spend your day underwater with your family. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the French-inspired Fuxing Park and have a picnic out in the open. To get personal with the pandas, go to the Shanghai Wild Animal Park or the Shanghai Zoo. Otherwise, the Century Park offers ample space for outdoor activities and recreation areas for the whole family to enjoy.

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