Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

The United States is ranked 9th on the Henley Passport Index 2025 with 186 destinations.

Guess who has the most powerful passport in 2025Asia has five countries in the top 20 of Henley Passport Index 2025.

The 3% hotel tax, effective January 2025, aims to address Hong Kong's budget deficit from high Covid-related spending, generating up to HK$1.1 billion annually.

Why Hong Kong is getting more expensiveThe resumption of the city’s hotel tax could provide a challenge for its gradual tourism recovery.

Skiing downhill from high mountains in Zell am See, Austria.

3 lesser known winter destinations in the Austrian AlpsThe Alpine skiing destinations that offer more authentic regional experiences while keeping the crowds at bay.

Russia is working to revive its tourism industry to boost economic growth, attract foreign investment, and improve international relations amid the geopolitical tensions resulting from the war with Ukraine.

Russia wants to woo back international touristsSince 2022, Russia’s international tourist numbers have plummeted by almost half.

The China Tourism Academy predicts the 2024-2025 snow season will draw over 520 million visitors.

Winter just got hot in ChongqingChongqing is attracting winter tourists with unique offerings, including snow activities, hot springs, and cultural events.

Thailand’s e-visa platform will be available from 1 January 2025, but travellers from visa-exempt countries need not apply.

Thailand’s new e-visa system launches January 2025More details about the global rollout of Thailand’s e-visa system unveiled.

Macau is a unique blend of East and West culture, offering plenty of attractions and surprises for new and old visitors alike.

2025’s hottest travel trends come to life in MacaoFrom Michelin-starred dining to Grand Prix thrills, discover how Macao brings emerging travel trends to life.

Recent events, including the powerful Israeli airstrike in Syria on 16 December, which registered on the Richter scale, have heightened global safety concerns about the region.

Will tourism in the Middle East be affected by the war?The Middle East's tourism faces uncertainty due to escalating conflict.

In Italy, the Union USB is staging a strike to protest government economic policies, disrupting airline, train, and public transport services nationwide.

Be prepared for travel disruptions in EuropeStrikes will be happening across Europe in December, threatening flights, trains, and public transport.

Tourists ran for their lives as a massive branch crashed to the ground at the Ubud Monkey Forest.

Tourists killed in Bali monkey forest tragedyFreak accident claims the lives of two women.

Vietnam attracted over 15.8 million foreign tourists by the end of November.

Vietnam is getting a major boost from Asian touristsThe top visitors to Vietnam in 2024 are from the South Korea, China, Taiwan, the US, and Japan.

Homeported in Singapore, the Disney Adventure will offer primarily three- and four-night voyages with dedicated days at sea.

How Disney Cruise Line’s first ship in Asia brings the magic to seaFrom themed dining experiences to thrilling entertainment, discover all the reasons that make the Disney Adventure a magical...

The Sam Poh Footprint Temple is a charming Chinese temple by the sea, nestled in a quaint fishing village in Batu Maung, at Penang Island’s far end.

What to do in Penang for a dayPenang is trending as a top tourist destination due to its diverse attractions beyond George Town, including cultural sites and...

The 2024 MGM Macao International Regatta took place against the city’s backdrop.

Catch these exciting live sports events in MacaoFrom high-octane motor races to serene regattas, discover what makes Macao a destination for thrilling sporting action...

Alma resort located on the famous Bai Dai beach of Cam Ranh district, province Khanh Hoa, Vietnam

Vietnam’s fast-growing coastal getawayCam Ranh is quickly evolving into a premium coastal retreat, blending heritage with luxury resorts.

Berlin's approach to short-term rentals has evolved, with initial restrictions in 2016 eased in 2018 to allow permits, limiting rentals to 90 days annually, similar to Munich and Stuttgart.

Europe is waging a war against AirbnbShort-term rentals are said to be driving up property prices and worsening the housing crisis.

Enhanced facilities at attractions include separate prayer spaces for men and women, halal food options, and additional ablution facilities.

Muslim-friendly tourism grows in Hong KongHong Kong introduces halal certifications, Muslim-friendly hotel ratings, and enhanced facilities at attractions to welcome...

The change in Japan’s tourist consumption tax aims to prevent fraud, such as reselling tax-exempt items within Japan.

Japan will be enforcing tourists to pay taxes in storesBy 2026, tourists must pay consumption tax upfront at duty-free stores, with refunds processed at departure points like...

Dubai authorities stated that the new visa rules measure is intended to ensure adherence to visa regulations and avoid overstays.

There are now stricter tourist visa rules to visit DubaiTravellers will have to show proof of accommodation, return ticket, and financial evidence.

Hamad International Airport topped the 2024 Skytrax rankings for its world-class amenities, seamless travel experience, and continuous investments in luxury services and sustainability

Crazy heavy snowfall disrupts travel in South KoreaSeoul's heaviest snowfall in 100 years has caused widespread travel disruptions, including flight delays and cancellations