Exploring Southeast Asia: Travelling during breaks

By Luna Tejada, National University of Singapore, Singapore

One of the biggest perks of studying in Singapore is its location, right at the heart of Southeast Asia. I made the most of weekends and semester breaks to travel, and those trips added a whole new layer to my study abroad experience.

From Singapore, budget airlines made it surprisingly affordable to explore nearby countries. During my mid-semester break, I visited Vietnam, where I spent a week exploring Ho chi minh, and Ninh Binh. I also travelled to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand — each destination unique in culture, food, and experience.

One particularly memorable trip was to Bali. It was a short flight, and I went with a group of fellow exchange students. We spent a few days hiking, relaxing on the beach, and visiting temples. It was the perfect balance of adventure and downtime, and a great way to recharge after exams.

These trips weren’t just about sightseeing. Travelling in the region gave me more confidence, helped me manage budgets, navigate unfamiliar places, and adapt to different customs. It was hands-on learning, in the best way possible.

That said, I was also mindful about travelling sustainably, taking buses where possible, avoiding single-use plastics, and supporting local businesses. As a Global Ambassador, I wanted to be conscious of my impact, even while exploring.

These travel experiences helped me appreciate the incredible diversity of Southeast Asia and made me more globally aware. It was eye-opening, rewarding, and definitely one of the best parts of the year.