Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

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.

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.