Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Commuters at train stations were plunged into darkness during the outages, with halted services forcing many to walk along tracks and tunnels to the exit.

Mass blackout hits Spain and PortugalState of emergency declared after massive power outages cripple transport, flights, and key tourist services.

Egypt is upgrading visitor facilities around the Giza Pyramids, including new walkways, ticketing systems, electric buses, and a visitors' centre, aiming to enhance tourist experiences.

Egypt eyes tourism boom despite Gaza conflictBuoyed by a record 15.7 million visitors in 2024, plans are underway to reach 30 million tourists.

According to Tourism Australia, tradeshows like ATE25 are essential for fostering connections and expanding Australia’s tourism market, particularly by engaging key Asian markets and trade partners.

What’s behind the surge in Australia’s tourism?ATE25 highlights Asia’s key role in Australia’s tourism boom thanks to its proximity and rapidly expanding travel market.

Mount Rinjani, Lombok’s iconic volcano, stands at 3,726 metres, offering adventurous treks, breathtaking crater lakes, hot springs, and lush tropical landscapes in a national park setting.

Is Lombok set to be Indonesia’s next big beach star?Move over Bali, Lombok is becoming the new darling for travellers and tourism investors alike.

Malaysia saw nearly 900,000 Chinese visitors in April 2025, with the extension expected to boost leisure, business, and experiential tourism.

China and Malaysia extend visa-free travelThe five-year extension aims to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties.

As Thailand’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, the Satun Archipelago boasts rich geological and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Could this hidden beach paradise be the next Phuket?Thailand’s Satun Archipelago is emerging as a peaceful, eco-friendly alternative to Phuket.

Pope Francis passed away on 21 April 2025 at age 88, during the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year, prompting global mourning and major impacts across Rome.

How will the Pope's death affect travel to Rome?Pope Francis' passing is impacting travel to Rome. Heed this travel advisor's advice.

One example is Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northern gem known for its striking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), relaxed pace, and deep-rooted Lanna heritage – offering a quieter, cultural alternative to Chiang Mai.

Cities to visit in Asia without the annoying crowdsAsia’s secondary cities may be the next big thing for those looking beyond the typical destinations.

Thailand will require all foreign visitors to complete a Digital Arrival Card online from 1 May 2025, replacing the previously used TM6 paper form.

New digital entry requirement for Thailand from 1 MayInternational travellers must submit online form at least three days before travel.

South Korea’s 2025 Welcome Week offers tourists cultural experiences, multilingual support, digital travel tools, and exclusive discounts on dining, shopping, and attractions.

South Korea says “Welcome!” with new perks for touristsTourists can enjoy exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and cultural experiences during Korea Welcome Week.

Kyoto, the Japanese city of 2,000 temples and shrines, attracts those seeking spiritual connections across the world.

Where are the world’s most popular spiritual sites?It’s no mystery: Kyoto leads for spiritual tourism

Indri Experience Centre is inspired by the grandeur of North India’s traditional havelis.

India’s single ambition: An exceptional single maltNew experience centre in Indri offers insights into whisky production.

Tourists come back, says Santorini as quake fears ease

Tourists come back, says Santorini as quake fears easeTourism stakeholders on the iconic Greek island view the situation more as a PR crisis than a natural disaster.

Tourists making purchases at designated stores can receive their refunds on-site.

China makes shopping less taxing for touristsInternational travellers can now claim instant tax rebates in stores instead of the airports.

The Hari Hong Kong offers art-led experiences, local culture programmes, and an audio walking tour to immerse guests in Wan Chai’s heritage and creative scene.

Culture, not couture: The new face of Hong Kong hospitalityThis Hong Kong hotel is focusing on local culture, art, and experiences to attract international travellers beyond shopping.

A 300-passenger ferry is being readied to link west Bali with east Java.

Leaving soon: A fast boat to and from BaliNew fast ferry services to bring Java closer to Bali.

Singapore aims to become a future-ready tourism hub by 2040, focusing on MICE growth, new attractions, cruise expansion, and enhanced visitor experiences.

Singapore aims to hit S$50 billion with futuristic tourism visionWhile remaining cautious about the potential impact of US tariffs, Singapore has a game plan to hit S$50 billion in tourism...

Qiddiya City will feature motorsports, Six Flags theme park, Falcon’s Flight rollercoaster, the largest water park, esports, and cultural venues.

This is Saudi Arabia’s future city of thrills, culture and speedImagine a futuristic city with rollercoasters, massive sports venues, cultural experiences, and cutting-edge entertainment, all...

Silversea’s 2025 Mediterranean sailings offer immersive cultural experiences, luxurious all-inclusive voyages, and access to iconic ports and hidden gems aboard intimate, ultra-luxury ships. (Pictured: Amalfi Coast)

Unlock the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets with this cruise lineIntimate ports, grand experiences: Silversea cruises reveal a Mediterranean few ever see.

While Borobudur Temple is a must-visit UNESCO site, Central Java has so much more to explore from its rich culture to scenic landscapes beyond this iconic monument.

How to experience Yogyakarta like Javanese royaltyThink royal palaces, hidden gardens, and luxury retreats steeped in history.