Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Thailand explores joint-visa programme akin to Schengen to facilitate seamless travel for tourists across neighbouring countries in ASEAN.

Thailand pushes for borderless travel to neighbouring landsTravellers may soon enjoy borderless journeys from Thailand to neighbouring countries, similar to the European Schengen system.

Bacelona’s city tax is now €3.25 in April 2024.

Yet another destination increases tourist taxBarcelona is the latest destination to raise its tourist tax as part of efforts to combat overtourism.

More than 155,000 security personnel are being deployed across Indonesia to ensure safety during the village-bound exodus.

Indonesia sees record-breaking travel for Eid al-FitrOver 190 million Indonesians are travelling back to their hometowns on the annual Eid Al-Fitr exodus.

While the northern atolls of the Maldives have been tourist favorites, efforts are underway to bolster tourism in the southern atolls.

Maldives has a new tourism destination on the riseMaldives is discussing plans to boost tourism in its southern provinces, encompassing Addu City, Gaaf Dhaal Atoll, Gaaf Alif...

By streamlining visa procedures and embracing digital innovation, Japan aims to attract more tourists and provide them with a seamless and efficient travel experience.

New e-visa makes it easier to travel to JapanTravellers from select countries are able to apply for visas electronically, eliminating the need for physical visa stickers.

Elegance meets excellence in a guestroom at Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo, a member of WorldHotels Elite and a local landmark in the Japanese capital.

Seasonal wonders: Secrets and tips for a unique Japan holidayFrom cherry blossoms to snowy retreats, BWH Hotels is the gateway to all-year excitement in this captivating destination.

The 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck near the city of Hualien on April 3, 2024, has claimed nine lives and injured 900.

Should travellers cancel trips to post-earthquake Taiwan?The aftermath of the earthquake in Taiwan has severely impacted infrastructure, making travel challenging.

Macao is one of the top concert destinations for musicians and performers, thanks to its location, world-class infrastructure, and unique cultural appeal.

Why Macao is the next stop for top-notch concert experiencesWith music’s growing influence on tourism, it’s time for travel agents to get into Macao’s culture, concert and beating heart.

Questions arise on the purpose of a high-value goods tax when there’s already a goods and services tax in place in Malaysia.

How Malaysia’s luxury goods tax will affect tourismConcerns arise over Malaysia's high-value goods tax impact on tourists' spending habits and destination appeal.

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.