Itching to travel? Only essential international travel is permitted for now, but in the meantime, here's something to consider: explore the offshore islands of Singapore, where you can escape city life without having to chop your passport or have to serve a stay-home notice upon your return.

Of course, it’s not the same as sunbathing on the beach in Bali or Phuket, and you can only take day trips (camping and overnight stays aren't permitted at the moment, more on that in a bit). But, hey, you get to reconnect with nature, and it’s probably the closest thing to a vacation right now (other than East Coast Park and Sentosa).

Safe distancing rules that are in place on mainland Singapore will apply on offshore islands as well. So keep a safe physical distance from others, and your offshore island jaunt should only be in groups of five (or fewer). Visitors will also have to wear a mask at all times (except when doing strenuous exercises, including cycling).

Probably the most famous offshore island in Singapore. You may have traipsed over at least once for a cycling trip with your fam or friends. How about relieving those times again?

In Phase 2, businesses on Ubin, including bicycle rental shops and restaurants, are allowed to resume operations, though guided tours are still suspended.

According to NParks, some parts of the island are still closed (like the island’s Nature Gallery, Chek Jawa Visitor Centre) and all campsites and camping areas remain shut, so even don't think about having a staycation there.

Still, you're able to visit Chek Jawa Wetlands (operating hours: 8.30am to 6pm, guided tours suspended), see the last authentic kampung, and then have a sedap meal to end the day.

One dedicated Pulau Ubin blogger, Syazwan Majid, made his way to the island recently and posted his observations on his Facebook page, Wan Ubin's Journal. He noted that safe distancing measures are evident even on bumboats that take you to Pulau Ubin. Previously, maximum capacity of these boats were 12, and a ride cost $3 per person. However, with safe management measures in place, each boat can only take nine pax at most now, and currently costs $4 per person to make up for reduced capacities.

The 23-year-old Singaporean also revealed that people can visit Singapore's last remaining kampung houses, but only five visitors are allowed per household. Fishing is also permitted in designated areas, but he noticed that there are signs put up to indicate where they are.

How to get there: Head to Changi Point Ferry Terminal, and take a 15-min bumboat ride from the pier.You can board the boat from 7am till 7pm, though it's highly recommended to set off from Ubin to return to the mainland by 5.30pm at the latest.

Cost: The bumboat ride costs $4 one way. There is no schedule for the bumboats ⁠— operators leave whenever the boats are full.

St John’s Island was formerly known as “Quarantine Island” as it used to house people who arrived on ships with infectious diseases in the late 1800s. It was later converted into a political detention centre and then an opium treatment centre. Today, the island serves as a quiet getaway for nature lovers who flock to the island to frolic in the sun, sand and sea.

Guided tours are still suspended during Phase 2 until further notice, and holiday bungalow and campsite St John's Island Lodge also remains closed for now. But you and your four companions can spend the day trekking the island’s curated trail, or even explore the smaller Lazarus Island, which is connected to St John's via a short linkway. Pack food and drinks for an idyllic picnic (no food is sold on the island), chill by the beach, or even go bird watching on St John's Island.

How to get there: Take a half-hour ferry ride (one way) from Marina South Pier. Singapore Island Cruise or Marina South Ferries have regular trips throughout the day - check out ferry schedules here and here.

Cost: Round trip tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for children age 12 and below.

Not far from St John's Island is Kusu Island aka Tortoise Island (in fact, ferry tickets to St John's Island include a stop here too). Known for its three Malay shrines and a Chinese temple, it's especially popular during the Kusu Pilgrimage season, when folks head to the Da Bo Gong temple to pray. This falls on the ninth month of the lunar calendar (usually around October to November) each year. But besides that, it's also a favourite among those looking for a tranquil city escape.

In Phase 2, you can visit the island’s sacred sites, go for a swim at the beach or lagoons, and even have a picnic amid the tranquil surrounds on the island. The Tortoise Sanctuary, however, remains closed. Staying overnight or camping on the island is not permitted.

How to get there: Hop on a ferry from Marina South Pier, operated by Singapore Island Cruise or Marina South Ferries. A one-way journey takes around 45 minutes. Check out ferry schedules here and here.

Cost: Round trip tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for children age 12 and below.

Photos: Singapore Island Cruise & Ferry Services Facebook page and NParks