Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Located in West Likupang, the small, uninhabited Lihaga Island is known for its beautiful beaches.

Super 5 to drive Indonesia’s quality tourism push in 2025Sustainable travel takes center stage as Indonesia unveils its tourism vision at ATF 2025.

With scenic routes and yacht cruises, Chaoyang positions itself as Beijing’s riverfront renaissance hub.

Is Beijing’s Chaoyang the next hotspot for waterfront tourism?China’s “Two Rivers, One Belt” plan may transform Beijing’s urban waterways into global tourism magnets.

Calls for Bali's tourism moratorium originated from local communities, environmental groups, the Indonesian government, and the interim governor, citing concerns about overtourism and its negative impacts.

Bali may introduce a tourism quotaThe new governor is looking at implementing stricter tourism controls instead of a complete ban on tourism development.

Cambodia’s tourism sector accounts for 13% of the country’s GDP.

Cambodia eyes tourism boost with ASEANTA’s supportASEANTA and Cambodia collaborate to boost tourism growth through investment, data sharing, and new initiatives at ASEAN Tourism...

South Korea accounted for the largest number of visitors to Japan, with 8.81 million arrivals.

Japan breaks tourism records in 2024With more than 36 million tourists visiting Japan in 2024, the country is aiming to double that figure in 2025.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand showcases “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year” at ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 in Malaysia.

5 amazing must-do things in ThailandAt ATF 2025, discover what to Taste, Try, Buy, Seek, and See in Thailand with TAT’s grand tourism push.

The target is a 31% increase in international visitors, rising from 17.5 million in 2024 to 23 million in 2025.

Vietnam sets ambitious target of 23 million tourists in 2025From caves to fireworks, Vietnam unveils line-up of events and festivals at ATF 2025 to grow visitor arrivals.

Kyoto is increasing the tourist tax to address overtourism concerns, improve residents’ satisfaction, and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Kyoto is about to get 10 times more expensiveIn 2026, tourists will need to pay up to ¥10,000 per night in tax for luxury accommodations in Kyoto.

Ipoh offers a vibrant mix of vintage markets, heritage sites, delicious food, and lively cafes, making it a charming destination for history, culture, and relaxation.

What to do in Ipoh if you only have one dayFrom browsing vintage treasures to exploring Concubine Lane, these are the must-do things for tourists stopping by Ipoh.

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.