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Tired of dragging yourself through Mondays? It is time for a reset with a travel partner that takes the stress out of planning and puts the fun back into your getaway.

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<div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641422281232025091809098_thumb.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner"><em>Photo source: Pexels </em></span></span></span></div><p style="line-height:1">If Mondays start feeling a little too long and you always end the day completely drained, you might be in need of a serious reset. While &quot;reset-atitis&quot; is not a real diagnosis, it is a sign that life and work stress are catching up. The cure? Take that leave and change the scenery.</p><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Luckily, Filipino travelers have easy access to several visa-free destinations just a few hours from Manila, Cebu, or Davao. These nearby escapes make spontaneous getaways simple. So, start packing. Here are five destinations across Asia full of food, culture, and scenery to help you recharge.</p><div style="line-height:1"> </div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>Tuk-Tuk your way through Bangkok</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Bangkok is a lively mix of culture, cuisine, and shopping. Visit Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace for iconic temple experiences. Ride a tuk-tuk through Song Wat, known for its art-filled cafes, galleries, and trendy boutiques.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641421798822025091809098_thai.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo source: <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of­ pagodas-during-daytime-2797526/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pexels</a></span></span></span></div><p style="line-height:1">At night, head to Chinatown for street food favorites like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and grilled chicken. For bargain shopping, explore Pratunam and Platinum Mall. Chatuchak Weekend Market has everything from clothes to skincare. Add a floating market visit for a unique experience and unwind with a Thai massage. Do not forget to grab mint inhalers, which make budget-friendly pasalubong for your colleagues.</p><div style="line-height:1"> </div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>Pho-real fun try going from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Hanoi is a street food haven, with must-try dishes like pho, banh ml, and spring rolls on nearly every corner. Down south, Ho Chi Minh City blends history and modern charm. Popular stops include the Pink Church, Central Post Office, Book Street, and the Cafe Apartment.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641421381432025091809098_viet.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo source: <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-close-up-shot­ of-plates-of-food-on-a-table-11783320/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pexels</a></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>KL-ose Encounters in Malaysia</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Traveling with a friend-or someone special-makes exploring Kuala Lumpur even better. Enjoy free attractions like the Batu Caves or KLCC Park near the Petronas Towers. Visit temples and catch the sunset as lanterns begin to glow, adding a magical touch to your trip.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641420355432025091809098_malay.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner"><em>Photo source: </em><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/petronas-tower­ malaysia-462671/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Pexels</em></a></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>Get more out of Singapore</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Singapore&#x27;s top attractions are easy to fit into a short itinerary. Start with Jewel Changi&#x27;s stunning indoor waterfall before you leave the airport. Visit iconic landmarks like Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay. For shopping and street food, Bugis Street is lively and full of photo­ worthy spots. If you have extra time, Sentosa Island offers beachside relaxation and fun at Universal Studios.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641418746922025091809098_SG.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner"><em>Photo source: </em><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/gardens-by-the­ bay-singapore-1842332/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Pexels</em></a></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>Taiwan-der around night markets and mountains</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Explore Taipei with ease using their efficient public transportation. Visit Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall for a glimpse into history, then ride the Maokong Gondola for sweeping views of the city. Do not miss Taipei 101 - an iconic spot for photos, shopping, and dining.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:633px;display:block" width="633"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641408037032025091809098_taiwan.jpg" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="633"/><span class="fr-inner"><em>Photo source: </em><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/view-of-raohe-st­ night-market-arch-with-kanji-texts-and-group-of-people-704379/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Pexels</em></a></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height:1"><strong>Travel smart with the right companion</strong></div><div style="line-height:1"> </div><p style="line-height:1">Wherever you are headed, choosing the right travel companion for your expenses is an essential part of trip planning. The BDO American Express® Explorer™ Credit Card is designed for travelers who want to maximize every experience and make each journey smoother and more rewarding.</p><div style="line-height:1"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17641407242802025091809098_AMEX EXPLORER.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner"><em>Photo source: BDO Unibank </em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/BDOUnibank/posts/pfbid02hmCLAyS1CcoGTpz8QNm15BfpRijp3aG5YnSAwyEJHD16QULZxQd68K7Ubu7rusdMl/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Facebook page</em></a></span></span></span></div><p style="line-height:1">Each purchase brings you closer to your next destination. Earn air miles faster with every swipe, with every P30 spend earning 1 air mile. From coffee in Taipei to hotel stays in Singapore, everyday expenses can add up to free flights with partner airlines.</p><p style="line-height:1">Foreign transactions are simple to manage. With a low 1.85% FOREX conversion fee, more of your budget goes toward experiences, food, and shopping.</p><p style="line-height:1">Start your trip with comfort at NAIA, where unlimited lounge access includes Wi-Fi, snacks, and a quiet space before your flight. Flights booked with the Card also come with complimentary family travel insurance of up to P10 million for added protection.</p><p style="line-height:1">The BDO American Express Explorer Credit Card helps you earn miles quickly, save on foreign exchange fees, enjoy exclusive lounge access, and travel with confidence.</p><p style="line-height:1">Visit the <a href="https://bdo.com.ph/amex-explorer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BDO Website</a> to learn more about the benefits, offers, and terms &amp; conditions, and apply for your own BDO American Express® Explorer™ Credit Card!.</p>

<p>Tired of dragging yourself through Mondays? It is time for a reset with a travel partner that takes the stress out of planning and puts the fun back into your getaway.</p>

From Mondays to miles: Your guide to getaways in Asia

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From Mondays to miles: Your guide to getaways in Asia

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Published Nov 26, 2025 03:36 PM PHT

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Updated Nov 26, 2025 03:48 PM PHT

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