This article is part of Traveller’s Holiday Guide to short international holidays. See all stories . Whether you’re led by your tastebuds or a love of the great outdoors, who says you need a full week to hit the “reset” button? These destinations tick all the boxes for a hassle-free holiday.
Now all that’s left is to decide where, and be sure to tell the boss you’ll return inspired, refreshed and way more productive. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Good for Avid food explorers, culture lovers. Clay pot chicken rice on the burners at a Kuala Lumpur night market.
Credit: iStock Stay Occupying the historic art deco Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, Else hotel offers enticing a la carte breakfasts, gym, library and rooftop infinity pool. The sustainably led EQ Kuala Lumpur meanwhile has unrivalled city vistas, a 25-metre infinity pool, a wellness floor, six restaurants, swanky rooftop bar Blue overlooking the Petronas Towers and one of the city’s finest private art collections. See + do + eat A heady cultural and religious melting pot makes KL fascinating, says interior designer and travel writer Jason Mowen who heads small groups tours to South-East Asia (including Malaysia), Italy and Morocco.
Visit Sri Mahamariamman Temple, KL’s oldest Hindu temple, then search out Shhhbuuuleee, tucked away in what once was the city’s largest cinema (now reincarnated as REXKL) for chef Mui Kai Quan’s modern Chinese take on food. Lose yourself in the bibliophilic labyrinth BookXCess .