Now that we are well into the vacation, some of you are dragging your luggage to the airport while some of us are wondering again: what else exactly we should do during the break? Here’s a list of things that you can consider doing!
- Rest!
Yes, you read it correctly! For some of us (most of us), taking a good break is important. We’ve never heard of an NUS student having a semester that wasn’t hectic, not to mention that every semester ends on a frazzled and draining note with finals. So, rest your overworked minds, and let yourself sleep in. Isn’t it a wonderful feeling to go to sleep without needing to set an alarm for the next day? :-)
2. Spend time with your family
When was the last time you sat down for a good meal with your family and had a proper conversation with them? Many of us are guilty of rushing through life, through our deadlines. We worry about getting ahead, but let’s not forget that our parents are aging while you forge ahead So, this vacation, take your family out for a meal, for a picnic or simply for a walk in the neighbourhood! Spending quality time together doesn’t have to be complicated.
3. Travelling
This is a no-brainer – take a holiday! Grab a buddy and plan a short trip to neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand or Myanmar. There are so many suggested itineraries online and travel blogs that you can refer to – your next destination is just a Google search online. Start planning and get packing!
4. Hobby
Remember the countless times you told yourself: “I would have done this if only I had time…” Well, now you actually do! It could be that sport that you’ve always wanted to learn, a musical instrument you wanted to pick up through YouTube, or perhaps a painting or pottery lesson… Go for it! Take this month to learn more about what you are interested in outside of school. Another wonderful thing that happens when you go forth to pursue a genuine interest is that you will likely find a bunch of like-minded people who will be able to walk the journey with you!
5. Christmas shopping
You must be thinking: No way, who shops for Christmas present so many days in advance? Unless we are mistaken, all our shopping malls have been blaring festive music since mid-November! It is never too early to shop for Christmas presents! All too soon, you will be bombarded by Christmas gatherings and gift exchanges. Start by listing out the names of people you are getting Christmas gifts for, and brainstorm for gifts you think they would appreciate! A well-written list will save you much money and headache when you actually head out to shop. Of course, Christmas is not just all about material presents, it is also a season for expressing your love and gratitude to them! Have fun shopping!
6. Volunteering
In this phase of our lives, many of us are focused on experiences that can enrich ourselves – such as travelling as much as you can, or picking up new skills. However, volunteering is not as common an activity that comes to mind. Volunteering can be fun, fulfilling and open your mind to various sectors of society that you may not be aware of. There are so many volunteering opportunities in Singapore. Start by identifying which group of people you would want to contribute towards – is it the financially needy, the homeless, foreign workers, elderly in nursing homes, the visually/hearing impaired or the physically/intellectually disabled – the list is truly endless). Look up relevant organisations who are already helping them and join their ongoing activities. Make it a meaningful vacation this year!
What are some other activities you can think of to have a really fulfilling vacation? Comment below and tell us! With that, we wish you all a happy vacation! :-)
