Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Though still under the radar for Indian travellers, Palau’s rich marine life, WWII relics, and eco-tourism appeal to niche nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Palau joins the visa-free club for IndiansThe west Pacific nation is offering 30-day visa-free access to Indian travellers.

WTTC estimates that Europe’s tourism spend will hit US$838 billion in 2025.

Europe’s tourism on the rise while US takes a breatherFrance and Spain lead Europe’s tourism surge, partly driven by travellers switching from the US.

As of May 2025, Indian travellers can qualify for visa-free travel to the Philippines.

Mabuhay! Philippines opens visa-free doors to Indian touristsIndian travellers can enjoy 14- or 30-day visa-free travel to the Philippines.

Japan is implementing JESTA to enhance immigration control, address illegal stays, and expedite entry processes amid a sharp rise in international visitors.

Who needs to apply for Japan’s new electronic travel authorisation?Travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries will have to electronically apply for travel authorisation before departure.

Courtyard by Marriott Danang Han River’s Executive Corner River View Room.

Marriott makes its Courtyard call in DanangCourtyard by Marriott launches first Vietnam hotel in Danang.

Spain faces a housing shortage as many landlords convert homes into short-term tourist rentals, limiting available long-term housing for residents, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.

Spain turns up the tax heat on tourist rentalsA 21% VAT on short-term vacation rentals is now mulled to tackle local housing shortage.

Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism is collaborating with police, military, and agencies to enforce safety protocols, crackdown on illegal tours, improve transport guidance, and ensure transparent pricing.

Illegal tours beware, the Thai authorities are coming for youThe Ministry of Tourism is cracking down on illegal tours and scams to protect tourists.

The Rain Vortex in Jewel Changi Airport is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 40 metres.

Unique things to do at Singapore Changi AirportEven a layover here will feel like a mini holiday.

Macao blends glitzy casinos with rich heritage, world-class dining, and UNESCO sites – offering a more cultural, East-meets-West alternative to Las Vegas’ party-centric vibe.

Trump is flipping the odds in Macao’s favourAs travellers turn away from the US, Macao looks to capture visitors deserting Las Vegas.

The British Residency, Lucknow

This part of India is utterly attractiveUttar Pradesh steps up efforts to attract travellers.

The official 2025 Ubud Food Festival celebrates the connection between food and heritage.

Another mouth-watering festival for BaliUbud Food Festival marks its 10th anniversary with the theme, ‘Exploring Heritage’.

The World Travel & Tourism Council says the downturn in US tourism will impact "communities, jobs and businesses from coast to coast”.

The US is about to receive a rude wake-up callThe decline in international visitors could cost the US $12.5 billion in tourism dollars.

Reality TV show, ‘Love After Divorce’ is viewed by more than 45% of the Korean population.

Will love find a way on the Gold Coast?Korean reality TV show hopes divorcees will reignite their passion Down Under.

Sales of Dubai chocolate has soared at DXB.

Travellers are going nuts for this in DubaiWhat’s hot? Dubai chocolate, if you can get it. Or have the patience to queue for hours.

Outside of the Kashmir Valley, life continues as normal in all Indian cities and tourist spots, says Creative Travel.

Is it safe to visit India now?Airports reopen; Creative Travel says ‘life goes on’ as normal.

The medical complex sits at the heart of the Sanur Special Economic Zone.

Bali’s new international hospital opensExtensive medical facilities in Sanur aimed at international tourists

Norway has gained popularity with winter tourists, seeing significant increases in arrivals and longer stays, particularly in 2025, thanks to its scenic landscapes and winter offerings.

Is Europe still popular among travellers amid rising costs?Despite challenges from economic uncertainty, international arrivals to Europe rose by 4.9% in Q1 2025.

Luxury meets extreme adventure aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the only vessel offering refined, exclusive journeys to the Geographic North Pole and beyond.

What true luxury looks like at the top of the worldLuxury travellers aren't just seeking destinations – they're chasing experiences only a few will ever know.

In 2024, Luang Prabang saw a total of 2.3 million tourists, exceeding its original target of 900,000.

How a railway put Luang Prabang tourism on the right trackChina rail link boosts small town’s big tourism ambitions.

Vietnam attracted six million visitors in Q1 2025.

Trumping Trump: Vietnam has an answerTourism industry calls for visas changes to spur tourism’s economic impact.