Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

France elevated its terror alert to its highest level, prompting increased security measures such as heightened patrols in public areas.

France raises terrorism alert to the highest levelFrance instates heightened security measures after Moscow shootings claimed by Islamic State militants.

In recent years, Qingming has expanded from honouring ancestors to include leisure travel and outdoor activities for the Chinese.

China gears up for grave-sweeping getawaysDomestic travel predicted to surge when Chinese travellers visit ancestor tombs and seek quick getaways.

Locals are plastering stickers on buildings expressing their unhappiness with the overtourism.

Tourists not welcomed in this beautiful Spanish cityMalaga locals express discontent over tourists, blaming them for increased rent and housing loss.

The flesh-eating disease, which has already infected 517 people in Japan, can spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact, or skin wounds.

WARNING: Deadly infection spreads across JapanTravellers are urged to stay safe as a flesh-eating disease sweeps across Tokyo and other Japanese cities.

Sensoryscape’s Scented Sphere features various fragrant plants like jasmine and ylang-ylang, offering smells that reflect Singapore's diverse flora, along with a projection mapping of butterflies and flowers.

The ultimate Sentosa adventure with Insta-worthy highlightsA haven for all ages and energies, Sentosa offers a kaleidoscope of experiences from tranquil retreats to thrilling adventures,...

Will international travelers now have to opt for trains over connecting flights?

Does Europe’s plan to ban short-haul flights make sense?First France, and now it’s Spain who’s banning short-haul flights.

While Japan's tourism has rebounded swiftly, travellers often favour city life, impacting tourism in many rural areas of the country.

Japan is directing travellers away from TokyoTravellers from Singapore are encouraged to visit Okinawa while Thais are steered towards Tohoku.

The number of Thais overstaying increased from 8,688 in 2021 to 9,549 in 2022, and further to 11,472 in 2023.

Will Japan end visa-free travel for Thais?Rising Thai overstays prompt speculation on potential changes to visa-free travel policy with Japan.

While digital payments in China pose no issue for locals, they can be inconvenient for tourists unfamiliar with the commonly used payment apps.

Is a digital payment revolution underway for tourists to China?The country is looking at easing cashless payment issues for inbound tourists.

The decision to prohibit tourists resulted from numerous grievances expressed by the local residents.

Kyoto bans tourists from iconic Geisha districtDon’t touch the geisha, says Kyoto to ‘out of control’ tourists.

Sands China will help to promote Macao as a “City of Performing Art”.

It’s lights, camera, and action time for MacaoSands China and CCTV join forces to promote Macao’s culture and art across a range of activities.

Hong Kong Tourism Board outlines its 2024 themes to a media audience in Singapore.

Hong Kong reveals its dream themes for 2024Festivals, fire and food figure in this year’s line-up.

The action comes after public outrage on social media about Russian-run businesses involved in illegal activities.

Russians and Ukrainians ordered to leave Sri LankaSri Lanka orders Russians and Ukrainians on expired visas to leave the country after rise of illicit activities.

Aeroporto di Salerno-Costa d'Amalfi is set to open on 11 July 2024, providing direct flights for travellers to the Amalfi Coast.

It’s about time Amalfi Coast gets its own airportCome summer, this highly popular but inaccessible destination in Italy will boast its own commercial airport.

Dubai is capitalising on the appeal of its largest market of with the launch of a five-year multiple entry visa for Indian tourists.

Dubai rolls out 5-year travel visaThe five-year, multiple entry visa is exclusively available for Indian tourists who meet the criteria.

Dubai's 2023 international visitor arrivals grew by 19.4% YoY, surpassing 2022 and pre-pandemic records, becoming a significant contributor to the city's 3.3% GDP growth in the initial nine months.

New tourism powerhouse Dubai smashes arrival recordsDubai welcomed more than 17 million international visitors in 2023, with 87 million passengers passing through its airport.

From 1 January to 31 August, the Thailand Traveller Safety is providing medical insurance and compensation for global travellers.

Thailand rolls out US$14,000 medical coverage for touristsCompensation for travellers will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Italy anticipates Chinese tourist arrivals to surpass 2019 numbers.

The dragon is rising in EuropeEurope projects a 60% surge in Chinese tourists in 2024.

Bali’s new international hospital complex is on schedule to open in Sanur in the fourth quarter this year.

Coming soon: Surgery by the shore in BaliNew medical complex expected to welcome first international patients by the end of the year.

Tasting bush tucker with Dale Tilbrook Experiences, Swan Valley Western Australia.

Discover Aboriginal Experiences for deeper Aussie adventuresNew signature collection showcases the best Aboriginal travel encounters.