Vietnam is one of the quickest destinations to get to from Hong Kong, with Danang a mere 1 hour 50 minute flight away. Danang offers up beautiful beaches and 5-star resorts such as The Intercontinental Danang, but for a little more buzz, head to Hoi An.

Just a 40-minute drive from Danang airport, enjoy the best of both worlds, by exploring the ancient town, staying in a cute boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly guesthouse and chilling at An Bang beach (with a coconut in hand!).

Be sure to try a cooking class, get some shoes made or clothes tailored, and most definitely eat as much food as you can! The banh mi from Banh Mi Phuong is the best we’ve ever had.

Fly To: Danang International Airport
Flight Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Best For: Easy access and affordable accommodation
Sassy Tip: Get custom leather shoes made at Laughing Cow, but make sure to factor in enough time for alterations if they don’t come back just right the first time!

Read more: What To Do In Hoi An, Vietnam

With quick and direct flights (that are generally great value for money), Okinawa is perfect for a short break that provides more than just a beach getaway. Sure, its white sand beaches and shimmering ocean are more than tempting, but Okinawa also offers up incredible cultural experiences that ensure you get the most from your long weekend!

Navigate the Miyara River by starlight, trek to the top of Pinaisara Waterfall, snorkel off the coast of Barasu Island, or check out beautiful views of the Pacific from the Unesco world heritage site of Nakagusuku Castle. You’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the busy streets of Hong Kong.

Fly To: New Ishigaki Airport
Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Best For: Beach lovers who enjoy adventure
Sassy Tip: Make sure to seek out Champuru, a stir fry of tofu, eggs, bitter melon and pork, along with Okinawa’s famous soba noodles. Different to other Japanese soba, these noodles are thicker and more like udon, served in a bowl of delicious broth with a number of toppings!

The picturesque island of Jeju lies off the coast of the Korean Peninsula and is known for its beautiful beach resorts and volcanic landscape.

Home to multiple Unesco world heritage sites, there are plenty of walks and hikes to keep you busy (the dormant volcano of Hallaan is the highest mountain in South Korea and can be hiked in a day!), along with beautiful beaches to unwind on. Boasting many breathtaking waterfalls, make sure to explore Cheonjeyeon Waterfall (also known as the Pond of God), whilst in Jeju.

Fly To: Jeju International Airport
Flight Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Best For: Surfers should head to Jungmun beach – known for its huge waves
Sassy Tip: We all know that South Korea is famous for its Korean Barbecue, but in Jeju you’ve got to try the Black Pork, along with the super fresh seafood!

Just a two and a half hour drive from Thailand’s capital, Hua Hin is a breath of fresh seaside air compared to the flashier spots in Thailand. Take a tour through the town’s gorgeous vineyard, sample the culture at one of the many scenic temples, face the waves with kiteboarding or simply relax at any of the seaside spas or restaurants. With a wide range of things to taste, see and do – this is the ideal spot for either a peaceful weekend getaway or something even longer.

Fly To: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Flight Time: 2 hours 50 minutes, plus a 2 hour 45 minute drive
Best For: Some much needed R&R! 
Sassy Tip: Check out the weekend Cicada Market – a contemporary artsy take on the traditional Thai street market. The Cicada Market features local live performances, creative workshops, handmade decorative items and, of course, the most amazing local and international food – all showcased under luminous lanterns!

Read more: 3 Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries In Thailand

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2017 by Annie Simpson and was updated in February 2020 by Tania Shroff. 

Editor’s Note: Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Philippines has issued a 14-day quarantine on all visitors from Hong Kong. If you’re planning to travel in the next few weeks, make sure to check for country-specific updates.

We don’t need to tell you the draws of heading to the Philippines. Though many of the islands can take longer to get to (and often involve multiple flights and boat rides), you can fly directly to Cebu if you’re in desperate need of a little R&R. If you’re a diving fan, the waters off the coast are a major attraction, along with the expansive beaches and plethora of luxe resorts.

Fly To: Mactan–Cebu International Airport
Flight Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Best For: Total R&R and diving
Sassy Tip: Food lovers be sure to try some Lechon (roast pig) which is popular across Cebu and available from street stalls and restaurants!