Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

A French scientist attending a conference in the US was deported after officials allegedly found “hateful” messages criticising US policies.

More travellers face detention and rejection at US immigrationSeveral countries are issuing travel advisories for the US amid Trump’s stricter border policies.

Japan wants to implement e-visa to streamline immigration, enhance border security, and manage the growing influx of tourists while preserving its cultural and natural heritage.

Japan’s new e-Visa system is coming faster than expectedSoon, travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries must complete an e-Visa before entering Japan.

Budget-conscious travellers are driving hotel bookings in Singapore, drawn by Lady Gaga's exclusive Asian concert and event tourism.

Travellers are going Gaga for SingaporeSingapore hotel bookings soar by 202% during Lady Gaga’s concert week.

The Sanur SEZ in Bali, launching in June, combines world-class medical facilities, wellness centres, business tourism, and hospitality.

Sun, sand, and surgery: Is Bali a new medical paradise?Sanur SEZ in Bali is set to woo global healthcare tourists – and keep wealthy Indonesians seeking treatment back home.

A new era takes flight as Hong Kong's multi-purpose airport city Skytopia gets clearance.

Could a new airport city elevate Hong Kong’s tourism status?Skytopia aims to transform Hong Kong International Airport into a dynamic hub blending business, leisure, and tourism.

Maria Margarita Nograles (right) aims to spur tourism in the Philippines by promoting indigenous heritage, empowering communities, and showcasing the country’s rich cultural identity on a global stage.

Meet the women powering the rise of Philippines tourismHow TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles is championing a powerful Filipino brand.

Lisa (left) from K-pop girl band, Blackpink, plays Mook, a wellness mentor at a luxurious Thai resort in HBO’s TV series, The White Lotus.

Blackpink’s Lisa x The White Lotus = Tourism surge in SamuiFirst came the TV series, then came the K-pop star. Next came the influx of tourists to Koh Samui.

Spain has expanded public drinking bans in 2025, prohibiting alcohol consumption on streets, beaches, and parks, with fines reaching up to €3,000, and stricter sales restrictions in nightlife areas.

Your guide to Spain’s new travel rules in 2025Planning tours to Spain? Here’s what you need to know as Spain enforces stricter measures to manage overtourism.

Instead of just rushing from one iconic site to another, the travel experience in East Java can be enhanced by immersing travellers in nature with picnics at scenic spots like Love Hill or Savannah Hill.

There’s more to East Java than just Mount BromoHow to complement a visit to Mount Bromo with other unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Europe's ETIAS travel authorisation, originally planned for 2021, has been delayed multiple times and is now expected to launch in late 2026 after further setbacks.

Europe’s new travel entry fee? Maybe in 2027…The ETIAS travel requirement is delayed again and again.

Last year, Tokyo residents returned a record 4.49 billion yen (US$30 million) in lost cash to authorities.

Why the Japanese are a tourist’s best friendHonest Japanese citizens hand over millions of dollars in lost cash.

The departure tax is included in the airfare, and travellers eligible for exemptions, such as direct transit or layover passengers, can request a refund through the Civil Aviation Department.

Hong Kong airport increases departure tax for passengersThe increased departure tax aims to address Hong Kong’s financial deficit.

The free Abu Dhabi Pass includes transport, data and entrance perks, such as discounted entrance to The Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi gives out freebies to touristsThe Abu Dhabi Pass offers tourists dining discounts, free transport, a tourist SIM card and more perks.

Fort Siloso, Singapore’s only preserved coastal fort, played a crucial role in defending the island during WWII and now offers visitors restored gun emplacements, tunnels, and exhibits.

What makes Sentosa’s historical sites a must-visit for travellersBeyond the beach clubs and thrilling rides, visitors can uncover Sentosa's rich military history and colonial-era heritage.

Kuala Lumpur’s leaders want the city to attain cultural hub status.

Visit Malaysia 2026: KL’s streets to echo with heritage tunesKuala Lumpur wants to promote the city’s cultural heritage by encouraging buskers to perform traditional folk music for Visit...

Sentosa's deal includes discounted experiences at attractions like Mega Adventure Park, Wings of Time, and the Singapore Cable Car.

60 ways to experience Sentosa like never beforeSentosa celebrates SG60 with 60 unique experiences, offering free island admission and exclusive deals throughout the year.

Bali dominates as top destination for foreign tourists, boosting Indonesia's economy.

Indonesia 2024 tourism surge fuelled by Malaysian loveInternational arrivals reached 13.9 million, led by 2.27 million Malaysian tourists.

Southeast Queensland is facing its first direct cyclone impact in 50 years.

A cyclone is about to hit Australia Gold CoastCyclone Alfred is expected to result in severe winds, flooding, and flight cancellations, impacting over four million people.

Visit Dubai says while afternoons are often quieter during Ramadan, all major attractions, malls and restaurants are open as normal.

What visitors can expect in Dubai during RamadanVisitors are encouraged to see the city “in a different light”.

PONANT is a French luxury expedition cruise line with 14 small ships, offering all-inclusive voyages to remote destinations, including polar regions aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

How this cruise line became a cult favorite among luxury travel fansFrom the polar regions to exotic landscapes, PONANT provides a travel experience that’s as unique as it is luxurious.