asia tourism news

Vietjet to expand its network ,orders 20 new airbus

Travel Biz News --- Amidst a global aviation market facing shortages and rising travel demand, Vietnam's Vietjet is expected to take delivery of up to 10 brand-new aircraft by the end of 2024. This expansion will further boost the airline’s leading modern fleet, aligning perfectly with its development goals and enhancing passenger experiences on its extensive network of both domestic and international ...

China: 144-hour visa-free transit policy implemented at 37 exit-entry ports

Travel Biz News ---- More than 14.6 million foreign tourists visited China through ports across China in the first half of 2024, according to the National Immigration Administration. The National Immigration Administration (NIA)'s press spokesperson reported during a press conference recently that a total of 14,635,000 foreign nationals entered China through ports across the country in the first ...

United States : 4.7 million non-U.S. citizen air passenger arrivals  in June 2024

Travel Biz News --- U.S.-international air traffic passenger enplanements1 totaled 25.179 million in June 2024, up 10.4% compared to June 2023. Data recently released by the United States National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show that in June 2024 non-U.S. citizen air passenger arrivals to the United States from foreign countries totaled 4.682 million in June 2024, up 10.5% compared to ...

Southeast Asia’s tourism to grow by 20.6 per cent

Travel Biz News --- Southeast Asia’s travel and tourism sector is projected to grow by 20.6 per cent to reach 360 million US $ this year representing 9.7 per cent of the region’s economy and surging past the 2019 peak, according to economic impact research the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC). Jobs are expected to reach more than 42.4 million, representing a year-on-year growth of ...

Boeing delivers Rocket Stage to NASA

Travel Biz News ---- Global aerospace company Boeing has provided NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. Built at NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), the core stage is designed to send the Artemis II crew to lunar orbit for the first time in 50 years. The Boeing-built rocket stage, which is the largest component of the Artemis II mission, will be loaded ...

Asia - Pacific

Thailand received 17.5 million tourists in six months

Travel Biz News — BANGKOK, (Xinhua) – Thailand received over 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first half of 2024, an increase of 35 percent from a year earlier, on course to meet the year-end ...

International visitor arrival increasing in Asia Pacific

Travel Biz News — The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) predicts strong gains in Asia Pacific international visitor arrivals for 2024, reinforcing its original forecast figures released earlier ...

India’s tourism recovery up , domestic tourism leading

Travel Biz News — India’s travel tourism sector shows strong recovery with domestic tourism leading the way , according to 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) released by London based World ...

Modi sworn in India’s Prime Minister for a third term, Shekhawat new Tourism Minister

Travel Biz News — Gajendra Singh Shekhawat took charge as Union Minister of Tourism of India. Shekhawat was briefed by Secretary Ms. V. Vidyavathi and senior officials of the Ministry of Tourism ...

PATA announces new executive board under leadership of Peter Semone

Travel Biz News — BANGKOK – The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has elected a new PATA Executive Board under the leadership of Peter Semone . Semone has been formally endorsed and will serve ...

Chinese expenditure on travel abroad reached US$ 196.5 billion in 2023

TravelBiz  News— China has recovered its position as top spender on international tourism in 2023 as Asia and the Pacific consolidates its recovery from the impacts of the pandemic. Chinese ...

21 Asia-Pacific Tourism Ministers commit to work for sustainable tourism development

Travel Biz News — Tourism ministers from the 21 APEC ( Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ) member economies issued a statement following their meeting in Urubamba, Peru on June 9. The joint statement ...

Asia Pacific Airlines : steady growth in air passenger

TravelBiz News — A total of 28 million international passengers flew with the Asia Pacific region’s carriers in April 2024 , representing a 32.0 percent increase compared to the same month last year, ...

PATA Annual Summit 2024 concluded in Macao

Travel Biz News — PATA Annual Summit 2024 concluded in Macao with commitment of collective efforts to promote tourism , More than 400 delegates from nearly 200 organisations across 29 destinations ...

UAE hospitality market to exceed US$7 billion by 2026

Travel Biz News — Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 25 April 2024: Recent data from global research companies indicates a bright future for the GCC hospitality industry, with insights from Deloitte and ...

Maldives targets two million tourists this year

Travel Biz News — Maldives plans to welcome at least two million tourists this year. Tourist arrivals in the Maldives surpassed 600.000 in the first three months of this year, whereas tourist arrivals ...

Vietnam : 4.6 million international arrivals in three months of 2024

Travel Biz News — International arrivals to Việt Nam in March 2024 reached nearly 1.6 million, up 4.4 per cent compared to the previous month, according to the latest report from the General Statistics ...

Around the World

Tourists to spend €800 billion in Europe this year

Travel Biz News --- Foreign arrivals and overnights surpass 2019 figures in the first half of 2024 in Europe .Tourists in Europe are expected to spend €800.5 billion in 2024, up 13.7% since 2023 , according to the latest edition of the ‘European Tourism ...

More than 3 million pass through US airport security in a day for the first time as travel surges

UN Tourism : 25 countries participated in CAP-CSA meeting

UN Tourism Council emphasizes to place tourism in global economic agenda

USA : International visitors spent $20.1 billion in March 2024

Over 285 million tourists travelled internationally in January-March this year

IATA : 81st AGM in Delhi , airlines commit to charter

Tourism back to pre-pandemic levels, but challenges remain

UN Tourism : 260 villages in Best Tourism Villages 2024 competition

United States : Air Passenger enplanements totaled 22.5 million in March 2024

China to celebrate 2025 as ‘Visit Nepal Year in China’

Travel Biz News —- Kathmandu: The 16th meeting of the Diplomatic Consultation Mechanism between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Nepal and the People’s Republic of China concluded here with focus ...

China’s Anhui promotes tea culture, tourism in Nepal

KATHMANDU ( Xinhua) – An event was held here on Tuesday ( May 21 ) to promote Anhui Province in central China as a major producer of teas and a popular tourist destination. Wang Jing, deputy director ...

Pokhara declared ” Tourism Capital ” of Nepal

Pokhara ( RSS ) : Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has pledged to lend necessary support and cooperation for the development of Pokhara, the Tourism Capital of Nepal.  In ...

Nepal Himalayas: NMA commemorates 50th anniversary

Travel Biz News — Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), the country’s main organization dedicated to mountain tourism and environmental preservation, marked its 50th anniversary today amidst ...

‘Nepal committed to implement Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects’

By Ramesh Tiwari — Kathmandu, Oct.8 – Political figures, academicians and experts have pointed out the need to explore Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects on the basis of mutual interest and ...

Himalaya Airlines starts Kathmandu-Qingdao flights

Travel Biz News — KATHMANDU – Himalaya Airlines, a joint venture between Nepal and China, has started direct flights to Qingdao from Kathmandu today. This historic event marks a significant milestone ...

G20 Tourism Working Group stresses on implementation of Sustainable Development Goals

Travel Biz News —- The 4th Tourism Working Group Meeting under G20 has urged all the stakeholders to support the vision of placing tourism high in the national and international agendas and processes ...

Himalaya Airlines resumes Kathmandu – Beijing direct flights

Travel Biz News — Kathmandu – Himalaya Airlines has commenced its flight operation between Kathmandu- Beijing- Kathmandu starting Saturday (June 24). Himalaya Airlines (H9) believes that the ...

First China-Nepal Friendship Dragon Boat Race Festival kicked off

Travel Biz News — The first “China-Nepal Friendship Dragon Boat Race Festival” kicked off in Pokhara today.    Four teams each from China and Nepal are participating in the Boat Race ...

Himalayan Travel Mart concluded focusing on collective efforts for tourism recovery

Travel Biz News —— Kathmandu – The 4th Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2023) concluded here emphasizing the journey of recovery and promotion of tourism in a world reshaped by the post-pandemic ...

Adventure / Culture / Lifestyle

Climbers have turned Mount Everest into a high-altitude garbage dump, but sustainable solutions are within reach

Suzanne OConnell / Alton C. Byers Spring is go time for climbers who hope to summit Mount Everest, ...

A model pilgrimage site for millions

Chinese President Xi opens Hangzhou Asian Games , 12,000 athletes from 45 nations compete in 40 sports

Record Mount Everest season in Nepal also one of its deadliest,17 killed this season

Hindu Kush Himalaya: GASP, ICIMOD to promote social change in the Himalayan region

Virgin galactic to launch second commercial space flight, adventure travel trade asso. appoints new board of directors, travel events / trends.

Thousands of exhibitors, B2B buyers join International Hospitality Expo 2024

Over 400 exhibitors to attend ITB India 2024

Arabian Travel Market 2024 concludes setting a new show record

Ahmed bin Saeed opens Arabian Travel Market , 2300 exhibitors from 165 countries in Dubai

28 countries participating in Kazakhstan International Tourism Expo- KITF 2024

Destinations / wellness.

Wellness economy – a multi-trillion-dollar market

Global Wellness Institute (GWI )defines the wellness economy as industries that enable consumers to incorporate wellness activities and lifestyles into their daily lives. It encompasses 11 varied and diverse sectors. Wellness is estimated by the Global ...

For Your Health: 5 Tips and Strategies for Wellness Branding

Wellness tourism market worth $1.02 trillion by 2030

Overseas holiday imp. to mental health of 96% of Brits

Opinion / blog.

Hindu Kush Himalaya, a ‘biosphere on the brink’

Panchase : A new destination

Impact of Climate Change on a Biodiversity Hot Spot

Destination USA : 8 things to see and do in Miami

UN : High-Level Thematic Event on Tourism

Business / economy.

Low-budget Chinese travellers highlight shift in Hong Kong tourism

Amsterdam bans new hotels to curb mass tourism

Global Hotel Alliance kicks off its 20th anniversary on a high note, reporting robust Q1 results

$236 billion a year profit from forced labour , lucrative sex trade

Women employment in tourism sector increasing

Connecting you with the world of travel and tourism.

An Opportunity to enter South-East Asian market in 2023

KAZAKHSTAN International Exhibition “Tourism & Travel” Almaty, Kazakhstan

CHINA- Beyond your imagination

UNWTO becomes “UN Tourism” 

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) enters a new era  with a new name and brand: UN Tourism. With this new brand, the Organization reaffirms its status as the United Nations specialized agency for tourism and the global leader of tourism for development, driving social and economic change to ensure that “people and planet” are always center stage.

UN Tourism: Transforming tourism for a better worldTo achieve this goal, UN Tourism engaged the services of Interbrand, the leading global branding agency. Interbrand successfully translated the Organization’s renewed vision for tourism into a new visual identity and brand narrative.

This involved renaming the Organization, transitioning from UNWTO to UN Tourism. At the same time, a new brand narrative was meticulously crafted, one that seamlessly aligns with UN Tourism’s central mission and priorities. This narrative pivots around three main messages: the UN as a global altruistic organization, the notion of connecting humans around the world, and the concept of proactivity and movement.

Enhancing the well-being of individuals, safeguarding the natural environment, stimulating economic advancement, and fostering international harmony are key goals that are the fundamental essence of UN Tourism

By moving away from acronyms, UN Tourism adopts a more approachable stance and capitalizes on its strengths: the “UN”, signifying authority, and tourism, a simple and relatable concept for all. This change has been endorsed by the Organization’s membership, highlighting its united support for the profound transformation and reinvention of UN Tourism in recent years, as it has become more agile, visible, and ever closer to its Member States, partners and the sector as a whole.

With 160 Member States and hundreds of private sector affiliates, UN Tourism has its headquarters in Madrid, Spain, and Regional Offices in Nara (Japan) covering Asia & Pacific, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for the Middle East, as well as forthcoming Regional Offices for the Americas (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Africa (Morocco). Its priorities center on promoting tourism for sustainable development in line with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Global Goals. UN Tourism promotes quality education, supports decent jobs in the sector, identifies talent and drives innovation and accelerates tourism climate action and sustainability . – UN Tourism Jan. 2024

TAT launches

“Thais Always Care”  Campaign 

“The Tourism Authority of Thailand launches ‘Thais Always Care’ campaign in collaboration with other organizations to ensure tourists’ safety and enhance positive image.”

The “Thais Always Care” online communication campaign was officially launched by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with the Tourist Police Bureau, Grab Taxi (Thailand), and Central Pattana (CPN) to ensure the safety and welcome of tourists from around the world. The campaign aims to provide seamless travel experiences for visitors to Thailand while also reinforcing the positive image of the country as a safe destination.

The campaign reflects Thailand’s renowned hospitality and warmth to visitors, showcasing the country as a desirable destination for tourists. “CARE” stands for Compassion, Assistant, Relief, and Elevate, encompassing the generosity of the Thai people and their commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for tourists.

Partners involved in the campaign have strengthened their safety measures and are utilizing technology to ensure the safety of tourists in Thailand. This includes installing CCTV cameras, implementing strict security checks at department stores, and utilizing technology like the “POLICE I LERT U” application to offer emergency assistance to international visitors. The campaign will also involve working with international KOLs to enhance the positive image of Thailand’s tourism assets and reinforce the country’s reputation as a safe destination. -Tourism Authority of Thailand

China’s resort island receives

90 m tourists in 2023

More than 90 million domestic and overseas tourists visited south China’s tropical island province of Hainan in 2023, up 49.9 percent year on year, local authorities said .

Hainan’s total tourism revenue surged 71.9 percent year on year to about 181.3 billion yuan (about 25.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, according to the provincial department of tourism, culture, radio, television and sports.

Last year, Hainan experienced rapid development in cruise tourism. Cruises to the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea saw 400 trips, up 277.8 percent year on year, and received 149,400 domestic tourists, up 405.33 percent.

This year, Hainan aims to receive 99 million tourists and its tourism revenue is expected to reach 207 billion yuan. The province aims to receive more than 1 million inbound tourists in 2024.

China aims to build Hainan into an international tourism and consumption center by 2025 and a globally influential tourism and consumption destination by 2035. – Xinhua

Vietnam  to welcome 17-18

million  tourists  this year

Việt Nam’s tourism industry has set a target to welcome 17-18 million foreign visitors in 2024, approaching the pre-pandemic record in 2019 when COVID-19 had yet to disrupt global travel.

In 2023, the figure hit 12.6 million, surpassing the initial target set earlier in the year (before China, which accounted for a third of foreign arrivals to Việt Nam pre-pandemic, announced reopening plans) by 57 per cent and achieving the adjusted goal of 12-13 million.

The number of domestic travellers, meanwhile, stood at 108 million, up 6 per cent compared to the set target. Tourism activities generated about VNĐ678 trillion (US$27.85 billion) in revenue, 4.3 per cent higher than the yearly plan.

Despite substantial recovery in 2023, the Việt Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) said the domestic tourism recovery will still face challenges in the year ahead. This is particularly true in the context of the unpredictable global developments stemming from economic uncertainties, regional conflicts and climate change.

Việt Nam’s socio-economic conditions remain stable; the economy continues to grow and inflation has been kept in check. But the persistent threat of disease and natural disasters are likely to create uncertainty affecting production, business activities and the daily lives of citizens.

According to forecasts from the UN World Tourism Organisation and the World Travel and Tourism Council, international travel activities may fully recover by the end of 2024, reaching the levels achieved in 2019. However, the recovery is expected to be uneven across different regions.

The ever-changing demands of international tourists require higher standards in product quality, diversity and unique experiences. The trends of integrating information technology, artificial intelligence and digital transformation are envisioned to drive the emergence of new forms of tourism.

Based on these analyses and projections, Việt Nam aims to serve 17-18 million foreign and 110 million domestic visitors this year, with an expected total revenue from tourism nearing VNĐ840 trillion.

To achieve the stated objectives, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyễn Văn Hùng has instructed the VNAT to continue focusing on advising and improving the institutional framework, policies, reviewing identified deficiencies for adjustment, and international commitments in the field of tourism. Collaboration with other ministries and sectors is emphasised to formulate policies for developing various types of products such as agricultural tourism and digital transformation in tourism. He also noted the need for attention on strengthening tourism statistics and digital transformation to enhance the effectiveness of data collection, providing reliable figures to efficiently support tourism policy planning.

The ministry also calls for enhanced training for tourism officials and workers to meet requirements of new situations, especially in terms of language proficiency and technology expertise. — VNS

Global Medical Tourism market 

USD 136.93 billion in 10 years

Newark, Jan. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Brainy Insights estimates that the USD 20.07 billion in 2022 global Medical Tourism market will reach USD 136.93 billion by 2032. There is a growing trend towards health and wellness tourism, with individuals seeking medical treatments, preventive care, wellness programs, and holistic health experiences. Medical tourism destinations can capitalize on this trend by offering comprehensive health and wellness packages.

Furthermore, integrating digital health technologies, including telemedicine, virtual consultations, and electronic health records, can enhance the accessibility and coordination of medical tourism services. Digital platforms can streamline pre-travel consultations, post-treatment follow-ups, and information exchange between healthcare providers and patients. Introducing new and advanced medical treatments, therapies, and procedures can attract medical tourists seeking cutting-edge healthcare solutions. Countries and healthcare providers that stay at the forefront of medical innovation can position themselves as leaders in the industry.

In addition, customized and personalized medical tourism packages catering to individual patient’s unique needs and preferences present an opportunity for service providers. Tailoring experiences that include cultural activities, recovery retreats, and concierge services can set providers apart in a competitive market.

Besides, wellness tourism, including genetic testing and personalized health assessments, is gaining traction. Medical tourism destinations can offer specialized wellness packages, including genetic evaluations and preventive health screenings, to attract individuals interested in proactive healthcare.

China eases visa application for US tourists

BEIJING: China will simplify visa applications for tourists from the United States from Jan 1, cutting the documents required, according to a notice on Friday (Dec 29) on the website of the Chinese embassy in Washington.

The move is the latest by China to revive tourism and boost the world’s second-largest economy following a slump during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourist visa applicants in the US will no longer need to submit air ticket bookings, hotel reservations or an invitation letter, the embassy’s notice said.

Beijing earlier cleared the way for passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia to visit the country without visas from Dec 1.Visa-free treatment will run for 12 months, during which tourists from those six countries can visit China for up to 15 days. China also expanded its visa-free transit policy to 54 countries in November.

The number of inbound tourists to the country plummeted during the pandemic due to the country’s strict COVID-19 control policies.

China’s visa-free policy facilitates

travels from 6 countries

Around 214,000 people from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia entered China in December 2023, an increase of 28.5 percent compared with November, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA).

China’s unilateral visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from these countries took effect on December 1, facilitating inbound travels from there.

Of these inbound trips, 118,000 were made by ordinary passport holders without a visa, accounting for 55.1 percent of all inbound trips from the six countries during this period. Around 91,000 visa-free entries were made for travel and business.

Thanks to the visa-free policy, ports in the southern Chinese city of Nanning welcomed many inbound travelers. Data showed that 121 inbound travel groups of nearly 2,800 people entered China through ports in Nanning in December.

Since the inception of the visa-free policy, ports in Beijing had, by December 31, witnessed more than 12,000 visa-free entries from the relevant countries.

The NIA pledged more optimized entry-exit management policies for foreigners to facilitate their business, study, work, and life in China.

International flights to China have picked up since Beijing dropped COVID-19 restrictions a year ago but are still only at 60 per cent of 2019 levels. – Xinhua

FACTS —

Tourism helps in:

👉Reducing poverty

👉Reducing Inequalities

👉Promoting gender equality

👉Fostering decent work and economic growth

World Tourism Day 2021: ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’

In 2019, Travel & Tourism’s direct, indirect and induced impact accounted for: -US$8.9 trillion contribution to the world’s GDP -10.3% of global GDP -330 million jobs, 1 in 10 jobs around the world -US$1.7 trillion visitor exports (6.8% of total exports, 28.3% of global services exports) -US$948 billion capital investment (4.3% of total investment)

Spain Tourism

Restart tourism.

Asia Travel News

Cathay is investing over hk$100 billion to strengthen hong kong’s international aviation hub status, etihad expands network in asia, tokyu resorts & stays set to expand foreign workforce, bwh hotels continues global expansion with latest addition to best western chain, cathay announces new sonic branding via “song of cathay”, thai airways releases 2nd quarter operational performance results, ritz-carlton bali positions itself as an exquisite asian wedding destination, skål international thailand’s annual forum takes place this november, air new zealand presents new cabin emergency evacuation trainer, s hotels and resorts reports robust performance in its interim report, dusit international signs property management agreement with king square development, airasia boosts asean tourism with 3,200 weekly flights this year, philippine travel mart returns this september, tourism authority of thailand’s amazing green fest slated for 15 august, samarkand is the second fastest growing airport 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kumar, tdm successfully concludes hotelier “revenue beyond the room” round table, the pavilions bring olympic sports to four asian destinations, patina maldives earns 2024 earthcheck silver certification, family-centric centara mirage lagoon maldives opens in november, jetwing hotels honoured once again with a presidential environment award, c9 hotelworks founder: ‘anything is possible’ amidst hospitality build-up in asia, agoda notes increased interest in asia for paris stays, lek hang group opens hotel central in macau, airasia resumes normal operations after it outage, tokyo festival 2024 presents a performing arts showcase, subang airport provides alternative port between singapore and kuala lumpur, ingeborg fallet kristensen is new president of skål international krabi, australian travel pros ease matters for those hit by it outage, nations issue travel advisories in light of bangladesh crisis, film tourism impacts phuket real estate with the ‘set- jetting’ appeal, rajit sukumaran and vivek bhalla take on expanded roles at ihg, legoland® malaysia resort partners with makemytrip, transnusa flights from subang commence 1 august, indonesia government ties up with uae’s eagle hills to boost tourism, kiwi link returns to india, indonesia to extend visa-free travel to 20 countries, emirates unveils travel store in hong kong, its first in east asia, scoot launches new daily route to subang, thailand announces new stimulus visa measures to boost economy, ite hong kong 2024 draws in record number of participants at 4th in-person expo, travel+leisure hails koh samui as asia pacific’s 2024 best island destination, philippines hailed asia’s best cruise port of call, bigpay expands financial network into thailand, vietnam’s phu quoc claims #2 spot among world’s best islands 2024, hong kong’s bar leone makes history at asia’s 50 best bars 2024, nearly 2,000 respond to call for air new zealand pilot cadets, gran meliá hotels & resorts unveils its 15th wonder in vietnam, air 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philippines reports significant increase in tourism revenue for 2024, resorts world cruises returns to taiwan for a second year, indonesia plans visa free entry for indian tourists by oct, raffles hotel toasts singapore on nation’s 59th anniversary, new bill bensley-designed coolies club opens in old phuket town’s most beautiful street, vietnam airlines launches nonstop hanoi-phnom penh flights, thai airasia launches direct lampang route, sia’s pelago ties up with global payment solutions firm primer, shangri-la group celebrate 50 years in asia with a new book, palace hotel tokyo earns three keys in michelin guide debut, travel + leisure crowns alba wellness valley as one of vietnam’s premier destinations, be amongst the esteemed winners of inaugural tdm travel excellence awards 2024 – asia, discover intercontinental bangkok – a city haven with top amenities.

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Tourism Is Surging in the U.S. and Europe. But in Asia, Many Destinations Are Struggling to Come Back to Life

H uoch Yen worked hard to become a tour guide at Cambodia’s famed Angkor Wat temples. It took the 43-year-old three attempts to pass a test for a license to guide Spanish-speaking tourists around Siem Reap, where the famous monuments are located—to say nothing of the years spent studying the language.

When the COVID-19 pandemic put the brakes on tourism in 2020, Yen decamped to his hometown in Kompong Cham province, a five hour drive away, where he now works as a teacher. But he still dreams of returning to his job as a guide.

“I contact my friend who is living in Siem Reap to ask him about tourism every day,” says Yen. “He still tells me that it’s not going well. There are limited tourists right now—it’s not like before.”

Before coronavirus struck, Angkor Wat was one of the world’s most crowded tourist spots. Throngs of travelers from across the globe would arrive each day before dawn, jostling for a spot across a small pond from the main temple complex. There they would attempt to take photos of the sunrise in an atmosphere resembling a mosh pit.

These days, it’s very different. The Southeast Asian nation is hoping to notch a million international visitors this year—a big increase on the paltry number of visitors it welcomed in 2021, but a huge fall from the 7 million that visited in 2019 .

As tourists elbow through the crowd to take selfies at Rome’s Trevi Fountain, or swarm the Strip in Las Vegas, many once crowded tourist spots in Asia-Pacific, like Angkor Wat, remain eerily quiet.

In June, the white sand beaches of Boracay—the most popular island in the Philippine archipelago—were largely free of foreigners . Earlier this month, tourist boat operators on Phi Phi —the Thai islands made world famous by Hollywood movie The Beach (2000)—were complaining that visitor numbers were “not even half” their pre-pandemic levels . In nearby Phuket, and in the Thai capital Bangkok, guides and drivers told TIME that they had had no income for over two years.

Read More: Can Barcelona Fix Its Love-Hate Relationship with Tourists?

A two-and-a-half hour flight away in Hong Kong, there are concerns that the iconic Star Ferry—once rated the world’s “ most exciting ferry ride ”—could go bust for lack of passengers. Japan, which hosted more than 30 million tourists in 2019, welcomed just 1,500 leisure travelers between June and July—normally peak travel season. In April, dive instructors and hotel staff in Palau told TIME that tourists, which accounted for almost 50% of the pristine Pacific nation’s GDP before the pandemic, hadn’t yet returned in meaningful numbers.

Asian tourism’s uneven recovery

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, international tourist arrivals in Asia-Pacific, from January to May 2022, were 90% below 2019 levels—making it the worst performing region globally. Many experts predict that it will continue to lag behind.

Domestic and international traffic within Asia-Pacific this year is expected to reach only 68% of 2019’s figures. Travel is not forecast to hit pre-pandemic levels until 2025, a year behind the rest of the world, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). For some destinations, the rebound may take even longer. Tourism in India won’t fully recover until 2026, according to a report by National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER).

Asia’s slower recovery is due to myriad factors like the staged opening of markets, the phased restoration of routes and capacity, and the “consumer misperception” that traveling to the region is complex because of ongoing COVID restrictions, says Liz Ortiguera, the CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

But there is no denying that Asia’s pandemic rules can spoil the vacation mood. Bhutan is closed to visitors until September. Singapore still requires people to wear masks indoors. Vietnam requires masks in public places, as does Hong Kong, where a self-funded three-day hotel quarantine is required for all arrivals, followed by several days of medical surveillance at home. The latter involves twice-daily temperature checks, uploading daily RAT test results to a government website, and taking three PCR tests in a five-day period.

Read More: Is the Summer of Revenge Travel Here?

Japan is currently requiring tourists to join organized tours. That’s been difficult for Kyoto tour guide and taxi driver Hiroshi Yano , who has depended on government subsidies, and ferrying locals around instead of tourists, to make ends meet during the pandemic. He says there’s much less work without the millions of tourists that used to flock to Kyoto each year, walking from temple to temple to take photos dressed in rented kimonos. “Not only I, but other small-scale businesses, like small hotels and restaurants, are still suffering,” he tells TIME.

The absence of Chinese travelers is a particularly big problem for the region. Thirteen Asian countries relied on China as their top source of visitors, and they were the second-largest source for another six economies, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Travel-ready Index for 2022 . But fearing that its citizens may return home with the virus, Beijing has been restricting “unnecessary” overseas travel as part of its draconian pandemic measures . The recent stranding of thousands of domestic travelers in China’s resort island Hainan, after a COVID outbreak there, will also make many reluctant to risk travel within China itself.

Some destinations are faring better than others. The Maldives, which receives a big portion of its tourists from nearby India , is among places seeing a quicker rebound. Steven Schipani, a principal tourism industry specialist at the Asian Development Bank, says that the Maldives’ international visitor arrivals are now close to pre-pandemic levels, thanks to a rapid vaccination campaign, good air connectivity with large source markets, and streamlined entry requirements.

June arrivals in Fiji were meanwhile 73% of the same month pre-pandemic. And even though COVID restrictions remain in Indonesia, Andrew Roberts, who owns the Padang Padang surf camp in Bali, tells TIME that he’s seen a steady flow of tourists coming back to surf the island’s world-class breaks, such as the towering waves of Uluwatu. Accommodation at the camp has been at pre-pandemic occupancy levels for some weeks now.

Asia-Pacific travel is “a sleeping dragon that is waking up in stages,” says Ortiguera. “Recovery is highly uneven right now, but domestic tourism has developed, travelers have been attracted from new source markets and more lesser-known destinations are being marketed.”

Read More: Revenge Travel May Be a Big Problem for Places Like Thailand’s Maya Bay

She argues that this is a pivotal time for a shift towards a healthier, more sustainable travel industry—and indeed, many see this moment as a chance to do away with over-tourism.

“Over-dependence on international tourism and the need for some Asia-Pacific countries to diversify their economies was an issue even before the pandemic,” Schipani says. “Now, many countries are redoubling their economic diversification efforts.”

Tourism workers on the front line, though, are pinning their hopes on a quick rebound. Yen, in Cambodia, plans to go back to Angkor Wat to work as a tour guide as soon as he can. “I can earn much more as a tour guide than as a teacher,” he says. “I can meet many people around from around the world and get new experiences.”

In Hong Kong, 32-year-old Carrie Poon, misses her old life. Before the pandemic, she led food tours, taking mostly American and European visitors to off-the-beaten track neighborhoods to try local delicacies like fish balls and rice rolls—even snake soup for the more adventurous. But when Hong Kong sealed its borders, she lost her income and decided to open a small restaurant.

“I loved my tour guide [life] so much,” she says. “If I could choose I would definitely pick the tour guide job but it’s, like, what can you do?”

— With reporting by Aidyn Fitzpatrick/Phi Phi, Thailand

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Write to Amy Gunia/Hong Kong at [email protected]

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Japan’s Kishida cancels Asia trip after scientists urge preparations for a possible ‘megaquake’

A house is seen collapsed in Oosaki town, Kagoshima prefecture, southern Japan Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, following Thursday’s powerful earthquake. (Kyodo News via AP)

A refrigerator and others fall at a restaurant in Oosaki town, Kagoshima prefecture, southern Japan Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, following Thursday’s powerful earthquake. (Kyodo News via AP)

This aerial photo shows the site of a landslide in Shibushi, Kagoshima prefecture, southern Japan Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, following Thursday’s powerful earthquake. (Kyodo News via AP)

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TOKYO (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida canceled a planned trip to Central Asia on Friday to lead the government’s response after scientists urged people to prepare for a possible “megaquake” off the country’s southern coast.

The Japan Meteorological Agency issued its first ever “megaquake advisory” on Thursday warning of a possible future major earthquake triggered by the underwater Nankai Trough, after a magnitude 7.1 quake shook just off the eastern coast of Kyushu island earlier in the day. The trough, which runs along Japan’s Pacific coast, was the source of past devastating earthquakes.

Seismologists at the agency held an emergency meeting after Thursday’s quake to analyze whether it had affected the nearby trough and reassessed the risk of a major quake. They urged people to observe high caution levels for about a week.

Thursday’s quake injured 16 people, most of them slightly, and caused no major damage. Tsunami advisories were issued for several areas but lifted hours later.

Kishida announced that he had canceled his planned Aug. 9-12 trip to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia as a result of the advisory.

“I have decided to stay in the country at least for about a week to make sure that government measures and communication are fully in place,” Kishida said.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency instructed 707 municipalities designated as at risk from a Nankai Trough quake to review their disaster response measures and evacuation plans.

The meteorological agency’s first “megaquake advisory” sparked public unease and prompted local government offices, rail operators and other agencies to begin introducing precautionary measures, affecting holiday travelers during the summer “Obon” holiday week.

Some municipalities even closed parks or cancelled events for the coming week, although officials and experts stressed that there was no need to shut down any normal activity. They said the advisory was aimed only at raising awareness of a increased probability over the long term, and that it was not for any specific timeframe or location.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi called on people to carry on daily social and economic activities such as traveling.

Still, towns such as Higashi Osaka called on residents not to engage in “unnecessary and non-urgent” travel in case of a major quake. Other municipalities opened shelters, called on residents to stock up emergency food and water and to discuss evacuation plans among family members.

The popular seaside town of Shirahama in Wakayama prefecture said its four beaches, outdoor hot springs, parks and other facilities would be closed for the next week. An annual fireworks festival planned for Saturday was canceled.

Aoshima, another popular beach resort in Miyazaki prefecture, which was hardest hit by Thursday’s quake, also was closed.

Rail companies serving the region said their trains will operate at slightly reduced speeds as a precautionary measure.

In a 2013 report, a government disaster prevention team said that if a magnitude 9.1 quake struck near the southern coast, it could generate a tsunami exceeding 10 meters (33 feet) with a death toll of more than 300,000 and economic damage of more than 220 trillion yen ($1.5 trillion) in a worst case scenario.

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Japan warns of heightened risk of megaquake

Japan has - for the first time - issued a warning about an increased risk of a "major earthquake" striking in the near future.

The advisory was issued on Thursday night local time, telling people to be alert but not to evacuate. It also stressed that the warning did not mean a large earthquake was imminent, but that the probability was higher than usual.

It came hours after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake occurred off the southern island of Kyushu, which reportedly caused no major damage.

But experts were put on heightened alert because of where the epicentre sat - at the edge of the Nankai Trough, an area of seismic activity which stretches along Japan's Pacific coast.

The plate boundary sits between Suruga Bay in central Japan, and the Hyuganada Sea in Kyushu to the south.

Previous Nankai Trough earthquakes have left thousands dead. These megaquakes have been recorded once every 90 to 200 years, with the last one occurring in 1946.

Experts say there is a 70% to 80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake striking somewhere along the trough in the next 30 years, according to the Kyodo News agency . Worst-case estimates suggest more than 200,000 people could be killed in the earthquake and potential subsequent tsunami.

However, at a press conference on Thursday, Japanese Meteorological Agency official Shinya Tsukada emphasised that while "there is a relatively higher chance of another major earthquake compared to normal times" they were not saying it would definitely happen "in a certain period of time".

This current advisory - the lower of two types of alerts at officials' disposal - will be in place for a week.

It asks residents to be on higher alert in the coming days, and for those who cannot evacuate quickly to consider doing so voluntarily, according to Japan's NHK broadcaster.

Officials have also told people be cautious but carry on with their everyday lives, while checking evacuation routes where needed and that households have enough supplies.

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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Why Chinese Propaganda Loves Foreign Travel Bloggers

Videos by influencers documenting their trips have been widely promoted on Chinese media — if they tell a certain story.

By Vivian Wang

Reporting from Beijing

Spend some time browsing YouTube or Instagram and you might come across a growing new genre: China travel vlogs.

There’s the American who made a four-hour “vlogumentary” about eating dumplings in Shanghai. There’s the German traveler marveling at how quickly China’s bullet trains accelerate. There’s a British couple admiring colorful traditional clothing in the far western region of Xinjiang. All have hundreds of thousands of views.

The videos are even more popular on Chinese social media. YouTube and Instagram are banned in China, but Chinese users have found ways to reshare them to Chinese sites, to avid followings. The bloggers have been interviewed by Chinese state media and their experiences promoted with trending hashtags such as “Foreign tourists have become our internet spokespeople.”

The emergence of these videos reflects the return of foreign travelers to China after the country isolated itself for three years during the Covid pandemic. The government has introduced a slew of visa-free policies to attract more tourists. Travel bloggers have leaped at the chance to see a country to which they previously had limited access.

But for China, the videos do more than help stimulate its economy. They are a chance for Beijing to hit back at what it calls an anti-China narrative in the West. China in recent years has encouraged locals to treat foreigners as potential spies; expanded its surveillance state; and expelled or arrested journalists at Chinese and foreign media outlets. But it points to the carefree travel videos as proof — from Westerners — that criticisms about those issues are manufactured.

“Overseas audiences find that through these videos, they see a real, fast-developing China that differs from the one under the mainstream narrative in the West,” said one article in The Global Times, a Communist Party-controlled tabloid.

The bloggers themselves sometimes feed the official Chinese argument, with video titles such as “The Media Lied to EVERYONE about China? We Share the TRUTH.”

“This is considered as one of the most controversial areas in China if you rely on the Western media,” the British couple, Libby Collins and Tauseef Ahmed, said in their video about traveling to Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang region. Western countries and human rights groups have accused China of abuses in the region, including the mass detention and surveillance of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities. China says tight security measures are needed to root out terrorism.

“The Uyghur people, everyone seemed fine,” Mr. Ahmed said.

The influencers have denied any ties to the government. Many of the videos in the genre appear authentic, without the typical hallmarks of state involvement, said Fang Kecheng , a professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong who studies Chinese propaganda. The market for the videos — in the West as well as China — points to a real hunger for more diverse, human-oriented stories about China, Professor Fang said.

“It actually reflects that the mainstream media do have their problems in terms of China coverage,” he said. “They do tend to focus more on geopolitics.”

But he cautioned that the travel videos, in making sweeping statements about the “real China,” risked being equally one-dimensional. “It’s also another kind of not respecting the agency or autonomy of people actually living in this country.”

In interviews, Western influencers who were featured in Chinese media said they had not set out with the goal of disproving any narrative. They had merely wanted to experience for themselves a country they had heard so much about in daily headlines.

Mac Candee, who posted the four-hour Shanghai video on YouTube, said he had been anxious before his six-day trip, having heard that he would not be allowed to film. That was not an issue: He documented dancing with retirees in a park, sampling dumplings and getting a massage.

“I don’t pay as much attention from the concern of the country’s politics, religion, all these types of more general things,” Mr. Candee, 31, said. “I want to meet the individuals.”

But the videos do not avoid those questions altogether. Many contrast their travel shots with dramatic clips from Western news shows. Some ask locals about freedom of speech or religion, as apparent proof that restrictions do not exist.

Those seeming contradictions are especially central to the videos about Xinjiang.

In the British couple’s video, they watch women in traditional dress give a dance performance. They point out mosques. At one point, strolling past a security checkpoint to enter a market, the woman, Ms. Collins, says, “They can control who comes in and out. Makes it nice and safe for everybody.”

Then they pass an armored vehicle parked on the street. They note how a guard suddenly appears from inside. “It’s like Jack in the Box,” Mr. Ahmed notes with a laugh.

In an interview, Mr. Ahmed said he did not worry about how their content was used by Chinese propaganda or others. “At the end of the day, people can give it any narrative they want. It’s just two people going around and recording their travel adventures,” he said. “From our end, we were happy with what we saw.”

The couple also acknowledge that their perspective, as short-term visitors, may have been limited. Journalists living in China are followed constantly when they are in Xinjiang and people they speak to are harassed.

Cheng Lei, an Australian journalist who was recently released after serving three years in prison in China on charges of endangering national security, has described China as a “locked paradise” where prosperity and technological prowess help whitewash the abuses of authoritarianism.

“If you are a visitor, you can have a great time biking around the alleys, trying the food, talking to locals, taking the high-speed train,” she wrote this month. “You forget that you are on a massive movie set, seeing a facade of freedom.”

Inevitably, though, as China has allowed in more foreign visitors — and cameras — it becomes harder to shape the narrative that emerges. Some bloggers have shared experiences that the government is less eager to promote.

An Australian blogger who posts to YouTube under the handle “josie lifts things” recently traveled to Tibet, which is only open to foreigners by permit, on a trip paid for by a state-owned tour company. The blogger had previously been featured on the Shanghai government website for her video about her travels there.

In the Tibet video, she praised the scenery and temples. But, she added , “While I try to travel without the bias that the media might have shown me in the past, it was hard to ignore some of the obvious signs of confirmation that were before me,” while showing footage of her seventh security checkpoint that day.

Another traveler, Sara Qiu , a Spanish cyclist who has been riding through western China, shared exuberant posts on Facebook and Instagram about her journey: being invited by strangers to join their son’s wedding or to eat dinner at their homes. Her travels have expanded her understanding of the country her parents immigrated from, Ms. Qiu, 32, said in an interview.

But she has also shared stories about being tailed by police cars, especially while in Xinjiang, and being turned away from hotels because she is foreign.

When she shared a video of her experience booking a room — a hotel employee said he had to make a call before he could accept her and the police later visited her — some commenters who appeared to be Chinese accused her of smearing China.

“They say why are you posting this, what is the meaning,” she recalled. “I just wanted to reflect the situation.”

Siyi Zhao contributed research.

Vivian Wang is a China correspondent based in Beijing, where she writes about how the country’s global rise and ambitions are shaping the daily lives of its people. More about Vivian Wang

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Southeast Asia’s tourism revival in 2023: Which country is leading the international arrivals

Southeast Asia’s tourism sector in 2023 witnessed significant growth, with Thailand and Vietnam among the key contributors. The region displayed a strong post-pandemic resurgence, marked by increased international tourist arrivals.

The tourism industry in Southeast Asia experienced a robust recovery in 2023, with international arrivals, aviation, and hospitality sectors showing promising trends. This positive outlook is a result of the strong performance in 2022 and the continued efforts of Southeast Asian governments to boost visitor arrivals. Key developments include enhanced connectivity for tourism, such as the ASEAN Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Cross Border Transport of Passengers by Road Vehicles, which aims to streamline cross-border movement of tourists and promote over-land travel between ASEAN states. Additionally, collaborations like the Lancang Mekong Tourist Cities Cooperation Alliance , involving Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and China, are indicative of a regional approach to tourism development.

Malaysia led the region with the highest number of foreign tourist arrivals, recording approximately 26 million visitors from January to November. Thailand followed closely, welcoming around 24.6 million tourists during the same period.

Vietnam also saw a notable number of international visitors, with the country hosting 12.6 million foreign tourists over the year. This figure, while substantial, was still around 70% of the pre-pandemic levels. The country’s main source of tourists included South Korea, mainland China, Taiwan, the U.S., and Japan.

The recovery rates of tourism in Southeast Asia varied across countries. Cambodia demonstrated an outstanding recovery, nearly achieving full recovery with a rate of 92.48%. Vietnam and Indonesia also showed strong recovery rates at 82.25% and 74.11%, respectively.

Southeast Asia offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers. In Vietnam, tourists can enjoy cultural activities like exploring the old quarter of Hanoi, meeting local craftsmen, and touring historic sites like the Cu Chi tunnels. Thailand provides diverse itineraries, combining sights like Bangkok’s vibrant city life, Chiang Mai’s mountains, and Kanchanaburi’s lush nature. Cambodia offers unique experiences from exploring the Angkor temples to visiting its southern beaches. These destinations are not just about sightseeing; they offer immersive cultural experiences, including the exploration of iconic movie sets and engagement in local arts and handicrafts.

The tourism trends in Southeast Asia are evolving, with a growing interest in wellness and nature trips. This shift reflects a post-pandemic change in tourist preferences, where people are increasingly seeking wellness or outdoor experiences. For instance, in Vietnam, the Avana Retreat provides a blend of wellness services, including yoga classes, spa treatments, nature walks, and local culture tours. This trend aligns with the global emphasis on mental health and well-being, positioning Southeast Asia as a top wellness destination.

The reopening of China ‘s borders is expected to significantly contribute to the recovery of the tourism sector in Southeast Asia. The anticipation of Chinese tourists returning to the region is high, and airlines are preparing to restore and increase flight connections. This development is particularly notable given the International Monetary Fund’s prediction of a strong recovery for Southeast Asia in 2023, despite a dimming global economy. The rise in vaccination rates and a desire to revive hospitality and travel to pre-pandemic levels are expected to increase competitiveness in the region to attract key international tourist markets. Furthermore, technological advancements like VR destination simulators, AI-based personalized travel accommodations, and metasearch engines are poised to enhance the travel experience and provide a competitive edge in the evolving tourism landscape.

Vicky Karantzavelou

Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

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Ukraine seizes russian gas facility, boosting morale, bargaining power.

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Ukrainian Army post show of its takeover of a Russian gas facility in the Kursk region.

When the leader of the mercenary organization known as the Wagner Group led an operation that came within 60 miles of Moscow just over a year ago, it reflected poorly on Russia's defense and its leader, Vladimir Putin.

Fast forward to the present, a similar high-stakes situation has emerged. Reports suggest that Ukraine's military has ventured 22 miles over the Russian border and seized control of a gas-measuring facility owned by Gazprom. If Ukraine manages to hold onto this strategic territory, it could significantly bolster its morale and bargaining power, sending a clear message that they are unwilling to live under a dictatorship again. This bold move also directly challenges Putin's authority and reputation.

“No one expects this from Ukraine,” says Elina Beketova, democracy fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis , in a conversation with me. “It shows that Ukraine can still win. Putin appears weak and disorganized. There has been a reluctance to escalate, but such an escalation could lead to better negotiating positions for Ukraine. I’m not sure about Putin’s moral compass. But he has felt he can do whatever he wants because of weak reactions. Now Western democracies understand Ukraine’s desire to be a free people.”

While Ukraine is guarded about its military plan, videos indicate that a 1,000-person army took over parts of Southwest Russia just north of the Sumy and Kharkiv regions. That’s a courageous move—one that allows Ukraine to trade the territory it holds for the easternmost Ukrainian sections that Russia now has. This is also the first time since World War II that foreign troops have invaded Russia; the Wagner Group operated inside of Russia.

President Biden and Vice President Harris support Ukraine's defense, as are the vast majority of European countries. However, the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump, is aligned with Russia and Putin, which is ironic considering President Reagan's characterization of the old Soviet Union as the "Evil Empire."

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What time is the 2024 olympics closing ceremony in paris, ukraine is determined to flatten khalino air base, situated just 50 miles from the front line of ukraine’s surprise invasion of russia.

Russia had previously taken over Kharkiv and Kherson, but Ukraine has regained control of much of these territories. Nevertheless, the situation remains unstable due to ongoing military conflicts. Before the tensions, Ukrainians could easily travel to Russia from these border towns with the appropriate identification for work or to visit family. Now, it is too unsafe.

“We are preparing new measures to further limit the the Russian state,” Ukrainian President Zelensky said in a video on X , adding that Ukraine now has the weapons to hit Russia and protect itself.

Democracy Versus Dictatorship

A question now looming is how President Putin will respond. Recall the Wagner chief, who galavanted his way to Moscow’s borderline, was shot out of an airliner along with a handful of his buddies. Inside Russia, Putin operates with impunity. He has also attacked Ukraine’s civilian population: Friday, the Russian army hit a supermarket in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast, and killed 14 people. Meanwhile, the day before, the Russian forces dropped a glide bomb on a settlement in Selydove in the Donetsk Oblast, killing two.

Putin has reigned over Russia for nearly a quarter of a century, longer than any other leader there. Russian elections are a farce, so it is unclear if he has widespread support. What he has is fear—the ability to throw anyone who questions him into horrible prisons. But Putin underestimates the power of democracy, believing diversity and free thought undercut governance.

His memory is short: In 1989, the Soviet Union collapsed because Eastern Europeans chose freedom. To that end, Democracy Fellow Beketova said Ukraine has no choice but to go on the offensive. Since 2022, Russia has battered the country, while Ukraine’s effort at self-defense has not deterred Russia. Cutting Putin down to size will work.

She said Ukrainians struck the Russian area called Kursk to save the metropolis of Sumy. Russia has been shelling that city for a long time, making it impossible to live there. Ukraine has tried to evacuate its citizens, although the government may have reasoned that a cross-border invasion gets more bang for the buck.

Indeed, the Ukrainian Armed Forces has released a video showing its takeover of a Gazprom-owned gas transit point just across the border. Consequently, natural gas prices in Europe are surging.

"The Russian army is not as strong as people think,” says Beketova. “Ukraine struck where it hurt and where Russia didn't expect. But Ukraine must retain control to keep its new bargaining power.”

Ukraine is discreet, suggesting there is more to come. In the near term, the aim is to end the war and reclaim the land Russia stole from Ukraine. Beyond that, the goal is to drive a stake through the heart of a ruthless dictatorship.

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Donetsk and Luhansk: What you should know about the ‘republics’

Who has followed Russia in recognising the controversial, Moscow-backed statelets in Ukraine? And what is life like there?

Kyiv, Ukraine – Moscow-backed separatists have controlled the southeastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, known collectively as Donbas, for almost eight years.

But Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised them only on Monday, paving the way for the official presence of Russian troops in the rebel-controlled areas that occupy about a third of Donetsk and Luhansk.

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So far, only Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Syria have joined Putin in recognising Donetsk and Luhansk – along with breakaway Georgian provinces of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. They all did so also on Monday.

The central question is whether Russia would recognise them in their current borders. Should it decide to help the rebels “restore” their statelets to the original borders, it may spell a large-scale war between Moscow and Kyiv.

At the moment, Russia will recognise “the borders, where the leadership of the DNR and the LNR are executing their authority,” Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko told the Interfax News Agency on Tuesday.

But the foreign ministry also said on Tuesday that the issue of the borders is yet to be resolved.

While Ukraine and the West try to avoid war, other questions loom.

What are the roots of the region’s separatism? What has kept these areas alive since 2014? And what is their future?

Neo-Stalinism

A 13.5 metre-tall statue of Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin still dominates the main square in Donetsk, the capital of the eponymous breakaway region in southeastern Ukraine.

And the constitution adopted by Lenin’s successor, Josef Stalin, has been restored by the Moscow-backed separatist leaders of Donetsk and neighbouring Luhansk after they broke away from the central government in 2014.

This constitution prescribes the death penalty for a number of crimes, making the separatist “People’s Republics” – and authoritarian Belarus nearby – Europe’s only homes to capital punishment.

After almost eight years of existence, the “republics” are understood to have evolved into totalitarian, North Korea-like statelets.

It is near impossible for foreigners to enter the areas. Ukrainians can only visit if they have relatives in Donetsk and Luhansk, and would have to cross into Russia first, which takes about 30 hours and costs $100 – a journey that also involves bribing officials at times. Residents need a Soviet-era residency registration.

In the statelets, secret police and “loyal” residents monitor every word, phone call and text message.

Dissidents or businessmen who refuse to “donate” their assets to the “needs of the People’s Republic” have been thrown in “cellars”, or dozens of makeshift concentration camps, without trial.

“It looks like the 1930s in the Soviet Union, a classic gulag,” Stanislav Aseyev, a publicist who was kidnapped in 2017 in Donetsk and was sentenced by a separatist “court” to 15 years in jail for “espionage”, told Al Jazeera.

For almost two years, he was incarcerated and tortured in these “cellars” until separatists swapped him and dozens of other prisoners in 2017.

Thousands of others were tortured and abused in the “cellars”, according to rights groups and witnesses. The grave human rights abuses make Donetsk and Luhansk far worse than today’s Russia, an international human rights advocate said.

“The cellars where prisoners are held in Donetsk, and the widespread use of torture, are among the most obvious human rights issues,” said Ivar Dale, a senior policy adviser with the Norwegian Helsinki Committee, a human rights watchdog group.

But there are much wider problems such as civil and political rights, he said.

“You could say that the political repression in Russia is doubly felt in Donetsk and Luhansk and other areas effectively under control of the Putin regime,” Dale told Al Jazeera.

Rust-belt ruins

These tendencies have gone hand in hand with economic degradation.

The living standards are “many times, if not dozens of times worse than in pre-war 2013”, said Aseyev, 32, who now lives in Kyiv and has published a novel about the events in Donetsk.

This regress looks even more staggering considering Donetsk’s and Luhansk’s not-so-ancient history. The cities were founded by two Brits.

Englishman Charles Gascoigne built a metal factory in what is now Luhansk in 1795, shortly after czarist Russia annexed Crimea and eastern Ukraine from the Crimean Khanate, a mostly-Muslim vassal of Ottoman Turkey.

Decades later, in 1869, Welshman John Hughes started a steel plant and a coal mine in what is now Donetsk, and the city was named after him – Hughesovka or Yuzovka – until the Soviet era.

The birth and rapid growth of both cities followed the czarist government’s drive to develop the immense coal and iron ore deposits of what is now eastern Ukraine.

Communist Moscow further spurred the region’s development, and tens of thousands of ethnic Russians settled there, making urban areas almost exclusively Russian-speaking.

Coal and mines grew deeper next to hillocks made of spent ore, and foundries, chemical and power plants dotted the region.

The political heyday of Donetsk began in 2010, when its native Viktor Yanukovych became Ukraine’s president – and brought cohorts of his cronies to Kyiv.

They tried to wrestle control of Ukraine’s politics and economy – but triggered months-long protests that began in November 2013 and ended in February 2014, when the Ukrainian parliament voted to remove Yanukovych from office.

The protests are known in Ukraine as the Revolution of Dignity – but Russian President Vladimir Putin still calls them a “coup”.

‘Russian spring’

In the czarist era, the region was known as Novorossiya – or New Russia – and the Kremlin would use the name in 2014 as it proclaimed the “Russian Spring” or “liberation” of Russian-speaking regions in eastern and southern Ukraine.

But pro-Russian rallies and uprisings in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, and Odesa, its largest seaport on the Black Sea, failed.

However, thousands of Russian volunteers flocked to Donetsk and Luhansk to aid separatist militias – while many locals were ecstatic about the “Russian Spring”.

“Putin will come and restore order here,” one of their supporters, a rotund minibus driver named Valerii, told this reporter in April 2014 in Donetsk.

But four months later, after the separatists tried to confiscate his minibus, he locked his apartment, loaded the bus with his most valuable belongings, and left for Kyiv.

‘Price tag’

Even though Ukraine barred any economic ties to the separatist regions, they still exist – and even involve top politicians.

Pro-Western President Petro Poroshenko, who came to power after the Revolution of Dignity, admitted that he channeled government funds worth tens of millions of dollars in exchange for Donetsk coal in the winter of 2014-2015 because otherwise “half of Ukraine could have frozen”.

But Russia still had to bankroll the separatist provinces spending billions of dollars a year.

So, what are Moscow’s economic goals in Donbas?

“Very simple – to lower the price tag of maintaining the occupied territories,” Aleksey Kusch, a Kyiv-based analyst, told Al Jazeera.

To achieve that, Russia may want to remove the middlemen who pocketed the lion’s share of profits from the export of coal and steel and the delivery of humanitarian aid that was immediately resold on the black market.

“They kept up to 70 percent of the profits,” Kushch said.