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8 Chilly Destinations That Are Perfect For Your Post-Ramadan Travels

8 Chilly Destinations That Are Perfect For Your Post-Ramadan Travels

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Have Halal Will Travel •  Mar 14, 2024

Anyone living around the Southeast Asian region will know that the last couple of months have been sweltering hot. The heatwave affecting Malaysia, Singapore and neighbouring countries has got many people scrambling to stay in air-conditioned indoors and out of the humid hot weather.

And no doubt there are many of us longing for a nice long vacation somewhere nice and chilly. Well, look no further, because we've rounded up a nice list of travel destinations for you to beat the heat!

Chilly Destinations That Are Perfect For Your Post-Ramadan Travels

1. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

It's always nice to start with a classic, and Cameron Highlands remains a much-beloved highland destination that's easily accessible. Undeniably the most famous and extensive hill station here in Malaysia, Cameron Highlands has much to offer travellers of any type.

Fresh highland air, breathtaking vistas, rolling hills, expansive tea plantations, lush strawberry farms, colourful gardens, scenic hiking trails - the list just goes on and on! However, an absolute must-do is a visit to one of Cameron's tea plantations (such as the Sungei Palas Boh Tea Centre and the Cameron Valley Tea House) for a heartwarming tea time amidst the wondrous surroundings.

A trip to one of its many strawberry farms is also a must as Cameron Highlands is among the few places in Malaysia where this cold-climate fruit can be cultivated. Its many gardens such as the much-loved lavender garden are also ones not to be missed. Try their one-of-a-kind lavender ice cream while you're at it!

Want a taste of local delicacies? Head over to Kea Farm's morning market or Brinchang's night market to satisfy those street food cravings! You can also buy fresh local produce and souvenirs here to bring back home.

[P.S. For other cool highland escapes in Malaysia, check out this list!]

2. New Zealand

Beautiful, beautiful New Zealand. Land of jaw-dropping sceneries and amazing adventures. Lord of the Rings wasn't filmed in this country for no reason - it's natural wonders are almost unparalleled!

But New Zealand in June brings you a different kind of adventure - a Kiwi winter! On both the North and South islands, the mountain ranges experience snowfall, providing picture-postcard scenery as well as great skiing opportunities.

There are many places to ski in the South Island such as Nelson, Canterbury, Otago, Queenstown, and Wanaka. Make your way to these snowy peaks and ski or snowboard through New Zealand's awesome slopes!

P.S.: Up your Instagram feed at these stunning New Zealand locations while you're at it.

3. Perth, Australia

Planning to visit Western Australia but not sure where to go? How about a trip to its capital, Perth? Beyond the endless sunshine and pristine beaches, a wonderful adventure in one of the liveliest cities in the world awaits you with numerous interesting attractions that can’t be found anywhere else in Australia. Here's a 5D4N itinerary to get you started on your next trip to Perth!

4. Kundasang, Malaysia

Hailed as the "New Zealand" of Malaysia, this quaint town has been gaining popularity amongst the locals for its majestic view of sweeping green pastures against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Kinabalu.

This, combined with the cool surroundings is an ideal refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. A must-visit place here is the Desa Cattle Farm, a dairy farm that is famous for its incredible landscape as well as delicious gelato.

Aside from that, you can also make a short historical stop at the Kundasang War Memorial, a memorial dedicated to fallen British and Australian soldiers as well as Sabahan during the colonial era. Don't forget to stop by at their Fresh Vegetable Market as well for some fresh produce!

Itching for some outdoor activities? Then we recommend taking a rejuvenating bath in the natural hot springs at Poring Hot Spring or stargazing with your loved ones.

5. Melbourne, Australia

If you're looking for a cold retreat after Ramadan, Melbourne will be perfect. This coastal town in the Southeast of Australia will be in its winter season, making it the ideal chilly escape!

Whether you stick around the central area to explore the city, go for a road trip along the iconic Great Ocean Road, or go cafe hopping, there's always plenty to do in this beautiful city (kickstart your travel plans with this 6D5N Muslim-Friendly Melbourne itinerary!).

For a snow-filled treat, why not head to the mountains? Melbourne has a number of mountainous areas that get snow during the winter season, which transforms the areas into ski getaways from June to September! Popular ski areas include Mt. Buller and Falls Creek.

6. Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, Indonesia

Suitable to its name, Bukittinggi (‘high hill’) stands majestically at 900m above sea level. No wonder it's refreshing and cool all the time!

Bukittinggi (which is only an hour's flight away from KL and not to be confused with the Bukit Tinggi in Pahang) is a bustling market town! Being the second biggest city in West Sumatra, it's the favourite spot for locals and globetrotters to enjoy the fresh and chilly air.

Look out for Jam Gadang (‘Clock Tower’), the famous landmark in Bukittinggi that has been ticking since 1926! Witness a sweeping panorama lined with hills, valleys and a bird’s eye view of the cityscape.

#HHWT Tip: Across the Jam Gadang square, wander through traditional markets called Pasar Atas and Pasar Bawah. You'll be flocked with souvenirs, handicrafts, traditional snacks and even fresh local produce! If you have time on hand, head to the city's old Chinatown for shophouses located behind the market.

7. Iceland

Why not go see the amazing natural landscapes of Iceland? While June is the first summer month in the country, meaning you won't be catching the northern lights, the days are longer and still chilly (with temperatures ranging between 6 - 13 degrees Celsius), making it a great time to visit Iceland! Visiting Iceland in early June also has the added advantage of being during the shoulder season, i.e. before the peak summer crowds arrive.

Visit Iceland's many picturesque nature spots, such as its hot springs, and the famous Blue Lagoon, or go for a road trip! Whale-watching also happens in the summer months, from April through September, when whales such as orcas, humpbacks and blue whales pass by Iceland on their way to northern waters in the earlier months, and towards the southern waters in the later months.

8. Alishan, Taiwan

Have a scenic respite away from the hustle (and heat!) of the city in the mountainous region of Alishan located in Taiwan! Known for its tea plantations, cool climate, and beautiful views, the Alishan National Scenic Area will be a welcome retreat.

Check out the gorgeous views, hop aboard the iconic Forest Railway, and do plenty of tea-tasting while you're there! Alishah promises a chill, relaxed trip that will rejuvenate. To make things easier, check out our 4D3N itinerary for you to explore this beautiful area (which includes where to eat halal food!).

So there you have it! 8 travel destinations that will help you cool off and experience some chillier weather. With the heatwave looking like it'll be continuing over the month, a holiday somewhere cool can't come soon enough!