Destinations News: Travel Weekly Asia

Destinations News

Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalise marijuana for medical purposes on 9 June.

Thailand gets high on relaxed rulesThe Land of Smiles has more to smile about as marijuana is decriminalised while the complex Thailand Pass will end from 1 July.

Tour operators in Myanmar say ensuring the security of their guests and partners in accordance with responsible travel principles have been their priority for the past 18 months. Pictured: U Bein Bridge in Mandalay, Myanmar

Myanmar is open, but is it safe to visit?While some industry members discourage travel right now, others say tourism income and exposure can make a big difference.

The stunning infinity pool on the rooftop of Best Western Premier Bayphere Pattaya overlooks tranquil Jomtien Beach.

Upscale is the new cool in Southeast Asia’s hotel landscapeAcross Asia, Best Western is pushing the envelope when it comes to offering upscale accommodation at affordable prices.

Industry experts say that scrapping the testing rule would mean an additional 5.4 million visitors and US$9 billion in travel spend for the U.S. this year.

Flying to the US? Covid tests are no longer neededThe U.S. travel industry welcomed the end of predeparture testing requirements for inbound air travellers.

Jurassic World 3: Dominion was partially filmed in Malta.

Malta woos tourists with dinosaurs roaming its streetsAs Jurassic World Dominion roars into screens, Malta hopes the spotlight on its historic sites in the movie will attract...

Taking place in Phuket this year, Thailand Tourism Mart Plus (TTM+) 2022 marked the first time TAT is organising the annual B2B travel industry show in person since the Covid-19 pandemic. Pictured: Travellers at Phang Nga bay view point near Phuket.

Thailand tourism on its way back, and 'Amazing New Chapters' awaitThe Tourism Authority of Thailand unveils new goals and strategies to woo travellers in a changed world of tourism.

According to Indonesian tourism minister Sandiaga Uno, 95% of digital nomads surveyed pick Indonesia as their “top of mind” destination for remote work.

Bali woos remote workers with digital nomad visaIndonesia wants to make Bali a remote working hub with a 5-year visa and dispensation of taxes.

Talking Turkey: A new brand and a booming tourism sectorTürkiye will now be the name on everyone’s lips as travel almost recovers to 2019 levels.

Philippines aims to reignite travellers’ sense of adventure by highlighting unique things to do across its 7,641 islands.

7,641 ways to have fun in the PhilippinesOne country, 7,641 islands — the Philippines rolls out over 100 new tourism circuits as part of its post-Covid tourism...

Alina Fazleeva apologises after a video showing her posing naked on an ancient tree.

Is it time to ban Russian influencers from Bali?Latest outrage puts a new slant on tree hugging.

Ticket sales at Angkor Wat will benefit rural communities in Cambodia.

Everyone wins as Angkor Wat reopensSiem Reap has a ‘new face’, following a multi-million major makeover, and it wants to show it off.

Brunei’s Temburong Bridge opened in 2020, giving travellers more self-drive options.

Bridges, bike tracks and bars, Southeast Asia is ready for Chinese travellersFrom major infrastructure projects to F&B scenes, experts say there’s a “new energy” in the region.

From an underwater restaurant to a beach club party, Sentosa’s kaleidoscopic collection of dining experiences can help travellers create lasting memories.

12 ways that Sentosa’s dining experiences cater to travellers of all agesNo matter how big or small a trip, food can create long-lasting travel memories – discover an eclectic array of unforgettable...

Venice's authorities said the tax is necessary to curb overtourism.

For Venice, taxes can wait but tourists can'tThe city delays the launch of the tourist entry fee to January 2023.

Down by the Melbourne riverside at Ponyfish Island.

The marvellous Melbourne's many offeringsWhat’s not to love in a city filled with culture, cafes and Picasso?

From party paradise Nha Trang to coastal city Ho Tram, these beach hotspots are fast gaining popularity among travellers.

Where are Vietnam's up-and-coming beach destinations?Look out, Phuket and Bali. Vietnam’s making a splash in the beach vacation scene.

The UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath with its many historical buildings is a dream destination for Bridgerton fans.

Travel like royalty on these Netflix-inspired toursFit for any Duke and Duchesses, these Bridgerton, Downton Abbey and James Bond themed tours bring the top TV shows and movies...

Wearing masks outdoors will soon be optional in Indonesia.

Relax, Indonesia wants to take it easy with testing rulesThe country is set to catch up with other Southeast Asian destinations to ditch Covid-19 tests for travel.

Japan's reopening experiment will begin with package tours organised by travel agencies to manage tourists' activities.

Look who's back! Japan to start accepting tourists in MaySingapore, Thailand, Australia and the US are named among first markets Japan is reopening to on a trial basis.

Greece packs a fresh and dazzling array of dining options and stays for Mediterranean travel fans.

G is for Greece — and gourmandsAgents take note: Gastronomy should be the focus for any travel itinerary to the Mediterranean country in 2022.