The Shaadi season is going to commence soon and I’m sure a lot of you are playing bridesmaids to your brides-to-be friends. Amidst all the shopping, salon sessions and other errands, it might get a tad difficult to plan the perfect bachelorette. So some of you will probably just end up heading to Goa for a trip that will be no different from any another girls’ getaway to Goa. But worry not, peeps! I’ve got you covered. Here’s a lowdown on 5 exotic international destinations you can consider visiting for memorable experiences without burning a hole in your pockets.

Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Straight out of a fairytale, Gili Trawangan  is a beautiful island near Bali, Indonesia. Fun fact: The only way to get around across Trawangan is on foot, by bicycle or in pony carts known as Cidomos as motorized vehicles are prohibited in this picturesque little island. You can chill by the beach with your girlies while sipping on the delicious Indonesian cocktails. You can also opt for scuba diving and other water sports during the day. After all, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, guys! Post sunset, you can party or attend the gigs and karaoke nights at the gorgeous shacks on the island. Gili Trawangan is my current favourite destination and trust me, you will have the time of your lives if you do decide to go there. Also, you will come back with a lot of stunning display picture and cover photo options. 😉 I got this one:

Abu Dhabi, UAE

I mean, even New York based-Carrie and her gang had such a blast at Abu Dhabi (in Sex and the City 2)! So of course, you’ll be in for a super fun time there. Exquisite delicacies, a great nightlife, desert safari – there’s a LOT to experience there. Also, shop till you drop!

A still from Sex and the City
A still from Sex and the City

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Try to match the dates of your visit with the full moon party and you are guaranteed an unforgettable vacation. When you are tired after all the partying, enjoy a relaxing sauna bath at the Herbal Sauna Baan Tai or swim at the pool of the Amsterdam Bar while enjoying the breathtaking sunset view. You can also take up a cooking class there and learn to whip up those lip-smacking good Thai curries.

Singapore

Relive your childhood with your BFFs at the Universal studios and scream your hearts out while taking the scariest roller-coaster rides. Enjoy a light-and-sound show by the beach at Santosa. Indulge in some retail therapy at the malls and markets. Party at the fanciest pubs. Do keep in mind that Singapore is slightly costlier than the other places listed here. But if you book your Airbnb properties in advance and ditch the hotels, and plan your itenerary wisely, you can very well manage to stay in your budget.

Boracay, Philippines

This one’s a popular pick for both Bachelor’s and Bachelorette nights. The party scene is crazy there and the pub crawls will have you craving for more even when you feel oh-so-tired after all the drinking and dancing. The beaches are laidback and not too crowded – perfect to play some fun games (treasure hunts or Q&As) with the bride-to-be.

You can also consider Sri Lanka, Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam and Langkawi in Malaysia for your girls’ trip.