Usual destinations, unusual experiences

PERTH

Just a five-hour flight from Singapore, Perth is a great getaway option. But if you’ve already been to the popular tourist spots, why not explore Western Australia’s outback, stay at a farm or take part in a festival?

DIAMOND FOREST COTTAGES FARMSTAY

Nestled between Pemberton and Manjimup towns, this farmstay welcomes people and their pets to stay in the self-contained cottages equipped with kitchen facilities and a gas BBQ on their veranda. Home to more than 100 animals, the 50-acre farm offers activities like animal feeding, fishing for rainbow trout and canoeing in the dam. diamondforest.com.au

THE GOLD RUSH TRAIL

Relive the spirit of Western Australia’s gold rush. In Kalgoorlie, check out the colonial architecture, historic pubs and massive Super Pit — one of the world’s biggest open-cut mines. Try your hand at panning for gold at the modern-day mining operations there too. From Kalgoorlie, follow the Golden Quest Discovery Trail to see the gold-rush towns of Coolgardie, Laverton and Gwalia. The trail winds through 25 sites, including the eerie ghost town of Gwalia and the stunning Lake Ballard, which houses artist Antony Gormley’s outdoor art gallery of sculptures. goldfieldstourism.com.au

TRUFFLE KERFUFFLE

Western Australia is famed for its truffles, which is why you’ll want to visit the annual Truffle Kerfuffle (June 24 to 26) in Manjimup. The festival features truffle hunts, a marketplace, cooking demonstrations and unique dining experiences. Make your visit extra memorable by glamping under the stars at Fonty’s Pool. trufflekerfuffle.com.au

HONG KONG

This cosmopolitan city is best known as a shoppers’ paradise. But did you know that Hong Kong also has a vibrant arts scene that can be seen at its galleries, restaurants and hotels?

THE POPSY ROOM

This art gallery stimulates your five senses. Visitors can expect a showcase of art, a symphony of music, an aroma of scents, a display of culinary delights and an emotive atmosphere that is inspired by the featured artist. For a truly immersive experience, indulge in the art and food pairing menu offered in the private art gallery dining room. thepopsyroom.com

DUDDELL’S

Occupying a two-story space, Duddell’s is a two-star Michelin Chinese restaurant that boasts a luxurious home setting decked with art decorations. Even the food served looks like pretty pieces of art. There is also a showroom for art and cultural talks, exhibitions and screenings. duddells.co/home/en

CATTLE DEPOT ARTIST VILLAGE

Enjoy a one-stop shop for Hong Kong art at this hub, which houses some 20 studios, galleries and theatre groups like 1a space — an independent art organisation that holds exhibitions, concerts and performances. The artists and galleries keep erratic hours, so you’ll just have to see which is open when you visit. 63 Ma Tau Kok Road. Find Cattle Depot Artist Village on Facebook.

BANGKOK

Bangkok is a hot destination for a quick getaway, and it’s not hard to see why. But there is so much more to Bangkok than just cheap buys, relaxing massages and good food.

SAFARI WORLD

Get out of the city and visit this animal park, which features a Safari Park and Marine Park. The 8km-long open-air Safari Park allows you to get up close to wild animals as they wander freely. Simply drive through in your own car or hop onto one of the Safari’s coaches. Over at Marine World, you’ll find a traditional zoo as well as a myriad of animal shows. There is also a cowboy stunt show and a water flume ride that takes you through the jungle. safariworld.com

AMITA THAI COOKING CLASS

Your experience starts with a private boat ride through the Chao Phraya River, where you can see the Royal Grand Palace, the Temple of Dawn, as well as numerous traditional Thai homes sitting on the water. Nestled on the bank of the water arteries, the cooking school will show you how to whip up Thai dishes and pick fresh Thai ingredients from its herb garden. Classes are hands-on, and at the end of the lesson, you’ll get to tuck into the four-course meal you’ve prepared at the Thai-style veranda overlooking the canal. amitathaicooking.com

THAI SKY ADVENTURES

Located 180km south of Bangkok, this sky-diving centre helps you make that big leap in a safe and easy way: In tandem. Enjoy the scenic ride up, then jump and feel the adrenaline rush of free falling at speeds up to 200-220kmh. You’ll get to marvel at the Gulf of Thailand, sandy beaches and vibrant Pattaya while floating back down to earth. thaiskyadventures.com