Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Will tourists care about the US turning 250 years old?Brand USA partners with America250 to market the US’s 250th anniversary to global travellers.

The “Half-Price Thailand Travel” initiative aims to boost tourism in Thailand by offering travellers subsidies on accommodation, meals, and activities from July to October 2025.

Now you can travel Thailand for half the priceTravellers can enjoy half-price hotels, meal coupons, and more across Thailand from July to October 2025.

Only selected shops in China offer instant tax refunds, so travellers should check eligibility before purchasing to ensure the service is available.

China’s tourist tax refund now comes at a tapTourists can get instant tax refunds via e-wallet or card for purchases over 200 yuan.

Tanjung Kelayang Reserve embraces a slow, peaceful rhythm where nature leads, inviting visitors to unwind amid quiet trails, gentle waves, and untouched landscapes.

The secret paradise near Jakarta you may not know aboutJust an hour away from the Indonesian capital, a quiet, nature-led world awaits.

Japan is introducing mandatory health insurance for tourists to reduce the burden of unpaid medical bills on taxpayers and prevent repeat offences by medical debt evaders.

Japan may implement another big travel rule soonJapanese authorities want to make health insurance mandatory for tourists.

Thousands reportedly joined protests against overtourism on 15 June across Spain, Portugal, and Italy, with the largest turnout seen in Barcelona.

It’s the “tourists go home” season in Europe againTourism protests erupt in Spain, Portugal and Italy as locals push back against overtourism.

A highlight sailing is the 5 Night “All Okinawa Cruise” visiting Naha, Miyakojima and Ishigaki.

StarCruises launches new winter routes in KaohsiungFrom November 2025, the Star Navigator is homeporting in Kaohsiung for sailings to Okinawa, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

Mongolia ranked as the least safe destination in Asia, according to Asian Geographical’s survey.

How safe is Asia for tourists? It depends on what you’re measuringJapan is first for safety but beware Mongolia

Border checkpoints popular with tourists have been closing early or shutting down on the Thai side.

Thai border crossing closures: What you should knowTourists face closures, limited openings of Thailand-Cambodia border crossings.

A passenger ferry departing Nusa Lembongan sank after being hit be a wave.

The dramatic moments when a Bali ferry flounderedPassengers scrambled to safety as boat sank in minutes

Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano in Sicily, is known for frequent eruptions, rich volcanic soil, and attracting scientists and tourists worldwide.

Is Italy safe to visit after Mt Etna’s latest eruption?Mount Etna erupted again on 2 June 2025, spewing smoke and ash into the air.

Perched atop The Outpost Hotel, 1-Altitude Coast offers stunning panoramic sea views and vibrant sunsets, perfect for cocktails, relaxation, and unforgettable evenings.

How to make a trip to Sentosa worth itFrom sunrise yoga and sunset cocktails to movie screenings – there’s a lot more happening on Sentosa than you might think.

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.