Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Starting from July, travellers are no longer subjected to temperature checks when they enter Myanmar.

Myanmar finally lifts all Covid-19 rulesThe last of Myanmar’s pandemic entry restrictions were removed on 8 July 2024.

The recently signed agreement between Indonesia’s Ministry of SOEs and Eagle Hills outlines investment plans for tourism destinations, property development, airports, and other sectors.

$3 billion to be pumped into Indonesia tourismIndonesia and Eagle Hills have signed a US$3 billion agreement to boost tourism and infrastructure, focusing on Soekarno-Hatta...

Thailand welcomed 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first half of 2024, marking a 35% rise from the previous year but remaining below pre-pandemic levels.

Thailand extends visa-free access to 93 countriesThailand has increased the number of countries under its visa-free entry scheme from 57 to 93 to boost tourism numbers.

Realising the durian’s growing popularity, Tourism Malaysia has compiled an e-guidebook on various types of durian packages and tour operators across 12 Malaysian states.

Durian tourism is a big thing in MalaysiaThe durian market is expected to reach billions of dollars within the next four years.

The 35-year-old Chinese woman and her 41-year-old Japanese husband were swept away by the strong river currents after a heavy rainfall in Gifu, Japan.

Travel influencers drown in Japan riverThe couple was swept away in a river in Gifu Prefecture despite wearing life jackets.

Tourists flock to Bukchon Hanok Village to take photos at the picturesque traditional Korean houses.

Tourists banned in popular South Korea village after 5pmThere are new rules in place for travellers visiting Bukchon Hanok Village.

Bar Leone in Hong Kong claimed the top spot, making history as the first-ever new entry to debut at No.1.

Which city claims the lion's share of Asia's best bars?Singapore dominates Asia's 50 Best Bars with 11 bars on the list.

Japan’s luxury market is thriving with a 6% sales increase, driven by high net-worth travellers.

Rich Asians are travelling to Japan for cheaper luxury shoppingMany travellers from Korea, Taiwan, China, and Singapore are capitalising on Japan’s weakened yen to buy luxury goods.

South Korea aims to eliminate "dumping tours" that lure tourists with low prices but force excessive shopping.

South Korea cracks down on dumping toursA travel agency was recently suspended for forcing tour groups to shop.

The Thailand Grand Tourism Year aims to boost visitor numbers and revenue through strategic initiatives and enhanced tourism services.

Thailand goes big in 2025 for its Grand Tourism YearThailand is targeting 40 million international tourists and US$94 billion in 2025.

Indonesia is easing the visa process for 20 countries to boost international tourism.

Indonesia is going visa-free for 20 countriesMajor tourism markets such as India, Australia and China will be able to enjoy visa-free entry into Indonesia from October...

Ordering a gelato near the Trevi Fountain can cost €5 now.

Italy's rising costs challenge tourism appealPrices have surged up to 20% for beach resorts, food, and accommodations.

Kenroku-en in Japan came in fourth with 496,200 Instagram posts and 2,607 TikTok tags.

Top 10 most Instagrammable gardens in the worldSingapore and Japan claimed two spots each in the global ranking.

From January to March 2024, Laos greeted 242,000 Chinese tourists, marking China as the third-largest contributor to foreign visitor numbers.

Laos eases visa policies for international visitorsMore countries now enjoy easier access to this ‘forgotten paradise in Southeast Asia.

While alcohol consumption is permitted in Dubai in licensed venues, showing intoxication in public places can lead to arrests.

Rules travellers should know before going to DubaiTravellers should ensure they respect Dubai's laws to avoid legal issues and ensure a smooth visit.

International tourism to the Philippines may increase due to favourable exchange rates driven by the weakened peso.

How Southeast Asia economy is affecting tourismTourism emerges as key driver despite currency challenges.

Crickets and 15 other insects have been approved by the Singapore Food Agency to be served in F&B establishments.

Bugs are creeping into Singapore restaurantsAdventurous travellers can soon find insect dishes in Singapore.

The protesters chanted "tourists, go home" and obstructed access to hotels and restaurant terraces.

Tourists go home, shout Barcelona localsOn Saturday around 3,000 Barcelonians took to the streets to protest against mass tourism in Barcelona.

The Philippines' tourism sector is projected to contribute ₱5.4 trillion (US$91.8 billion) to the national economy, reflecting a 25% year-on-year growth and surpassing the 2019 peak by 7.1%.

Philippines set for record-breaking tourism year in 2024International tourist spending in the Philippines projected to reach $12 billion.

Bali keen to tackle bad behaviour, but viral posts do not help, says Denpasar official.

Is social media giving Bali a bad name?Videos of punch-ups and other poor behaviour are not helpful for the island’s image, says deputy mayor.