Asia Pacific Snapshot:
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Canada
B.C. finally attracts more foreign visitors than it did pre-pandemic.
Source: Powell River Peak Dec 21, 2023
Canada sees travel rush during holiday season.
Source: Xinhua Dec 23, 2023
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Canada announces new rules for international students.
Source: Arabian Business Jan 4, 2024
Air Canada resumes Bangkok-Vancouver direct flight.
Source: Bangkok Post Dec 22, 2023
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COVID-19 emergency border measures have ended. For all travellers entering Canada by air, land or marine mode on or after October 1, 2022 does not require Proof of COVID-19 vaccination, COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests, Quarantine, Using ArriveCAN, Pre-boarding tests for cruise passengers, Health checks to board planes and trains, Wearing masks on planes and trains. Air travellers arriving from China, Hong Kong SAR or Macao, China are not required to show a COVID-19 test result to board their flight.
Source: Government of Canada October 1, 2022
Canada introduced visa-free air travel and announced the addition of 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) programme. Effective June 6 2023, travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when travelling to Canada by air.
Source: Government of Canada June 7, 2023
Mexico
Puerto Vallarta International Airport received historic 6.8M passengers in 2023.
Source: Vallarta Daily News Jan 7, 2024
Los Cabos breaks all previous tourism records as destination soars in popularity; aims to increase tourist arrivals by 10% in 2024.
Source: The Cabo Sun; Travelling Lifestyle Jan 6, 2024
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Cancun Airport to get a billion-dollar renovation in 2024.
Source: Travel Pulse Jan 2, 2024
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To this day, there are no entry restrictions in Mexico and no obligation to carry a COVID-19 test or to do quarantine. However, it is mandatory to register on the Mexico Vuela Seguro Platform before boarding and to show the QR code at the arrival airport.
Source: Secretary of Foreign Relation Jan 2, 2024
As of October 22, 2023, foreigners who intend to transit through Mexican international airports whose nationalities require a visa to travel to Mexico must have a Visitor visa without permission to carry out remunerated activities in order to board any flight to Mexico.
Source: Embassy of Mexico Oct 11, 2023
USA
New York City attracts 61.8M travellers in 2023, expects 64.5M visitors in 2024.
Source: Travel Trends Today Jan 3, 2024
International air travellers spent $20.9B in the US.
Source: eTurboNews Jan 8 2024
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More than 1,000 flights cancelled as US experiences extreme weather.
Source: The New York Times Jan 10, 2024
USA Crits returns as six-race 'travel-friendly' spring series in 2024.
Source: Cyclingnews Dec 22, 2023
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US ends its COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travelers and federal workers on May 11 2023, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
Source: The White House May 8, 2023
By November 30, 2023, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will be updated to allow citizens and nationals of Israel to apply to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a U.S. visa. Following updates in Israel’s travel policies, all U.S. citizens may request entry to Israel for up to 90 days for business, tourism, or transit without obtaining a visa.
Source: U.S. EMBASSY IN ISRAEL Oct 21, 2023
China
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China's "ice city" sees tourism boom.
Source: Xinhua Jan 8, 2024
China sees 135 million domestic trips during New Year holiday; domestic tourism set to grow remarkably by 2024.
Source: CGTN; China Daily Jan 2, 2024
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Agreement on mutual visa exemption reached between Thailand and China from March 1, 2024
Source: Royal Thai Goverment Jan 2, 2024
China simplified visa applications for tourists from the US from Jan. 1, cutting the documents required.
Source: US-China Embassy Dec 29, 2023
Chinese Taipei
CNN names Chinese Taipei's Tainan one of world's best travel destinations for 2024.
Source: Focus Taiwan Jan 7, 2024
Chinese Taipei cruise market up to 50% of pre-COVID level.
Source: Taiwan News Jan 4, 2024
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Chinese Taipei to establish senior-friendly travel system.
Source: TTG Asia Jan 2, 2024
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Vietnamese passport holders who submit online applications for e-visa to Chinesse Taipei "with a visa, resident certificate or permanent resident certificate issued by Japan/Korea (ROK) as supporting documents will no longer be eligible for a Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC)” from Taiwanese authorities.
Source: VnExpress Oct 3, 2023
Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces one-year extension of trial visa-free entry from August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024, for Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines nationals.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese Taipei Aug 1, 2023
Hong Kong SAR
Hong Kong SAR, Macao, China most popular outbound destinations for mainland visitors during New Year's Day holidays.
Source: Global Times Jan 2, 2024
Luxury sales revenue in Hong Kong SAR soars, tourism recovers; top city for int'l visitor spending growth potential.
Source: Travel and Tour World; Statista Jan 6, 2024
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Cathay Pacific to resume Hong Kong-Barcelona route.
Source: Airline Geeks Jan 2, 2024
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All inbound persons must pass temperature checks upon arrival. Those found with symptoms will be referred to the Department of Health for further handling. No further restrictions upon arrival.
Source: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Feb 6, 2023
"""Fly from Hong Kong via Zhuhai"" policy, which took effect on Tuesday, allows travellers arriving at Zhuhai Jinwan Airport on the Chinese mainland to travel via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to Hong Kong International Airport to fly to overseas destinations without going through immigration in Hong Kong SAR.The same service applies in reverse, with people flying into Hong Kong SAR from overseas being able to transfer to China cities via the HZMB and Zhuhai Airport without the need to undergo Hong Kong immigration procedures."
Source: China News Service (CNS) Dec 13, 2023
Japan
JR passengers up 8% during year-end and New Year's holidays.
Source: The Japan Times Jan 6, 2024
Inbound tourists drive Japanese department store sales to record high.
Source: Nikkei Asia Jan 2, 2024
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Japan to attract foreign tourists to sightseeing areas outside major cities.
Source: NHK World Japan Jan 5, 2023
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The Japanese Embassy in Vietnam will provide electronic marketing from November 1, 2023. The electronic implementation level begins to be implemented after all the preparatory work has been completed, one after another from a number of Travel Companies designated to organize package tours. Applicable visa type: Single-entry short-term visa with the purpose of traveling within 15 days (Limited to Vietnamese passport holders living in Vietnam)
Source: Embassy of Japan in Vietnam Oct 7, 2023
Starting August 21, 2023, Japan will grant visa exemption to Qatari nationals. They can electronically apply for visas at the Embassy of Japan in Doha, streamlining the process. Upon arrival in Japan, travellers should display their visa waiver registration on mobile devices. This change allows Qatari citizens to enjoy visa-free stays of over 30 days.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Aug 8, 2023
Korea (ROK)
Culture Ministry to invest 1.3 trillion won in tourism this year.
Source: Korea JooAng Daily Jan 3, 2024
Korea (ROK) introduces ‘digital nomad’ visa that will permit foreigners to stay there for 2 years.
Source: Times of India Jan 4, 2024
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Emirates ramps up Seoul operations to 10 weekly flights; Incheon-Puerto Princesa direct flights set to start in March.
Source: Times Aerospace; Palawan NewsNews Jan 8, 2024
Korea (ROK) to allow ‘ads to lure foreign patients’ in medical tourism zones.
Source: Korea Biomedical Review Biomedical Review Jan 5, 2024
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Korea (ROK) began issuing digital nomad visas from Jan. 1, allowing foreigners to stay for up to two years.
Source: Korea Tourism Organization Jan 3, 2024
The Ministry of Justice in Korea (ROK) reinstated the visa-free entry system for foreign transit passengers starting April 30, 2023. For Filipino nationals, specific cases apply:1) Visa-free entry for 30 days is granted to individuals with a visa (re-entry permit, permanent residency) for the United States, Canada, Australia, or 32 European countries (details in the attachment) who transit through Korea (ROK) on their way to these countries. However, those with prior legal violations like illegal stays or denied entry to Korea (ROK) or their destination may be denied entry.
2) When transferring at Incheon International Airport en route to a country not in (1), a three-day tour is possible through a recognised Transit Tourism Program by the Korean government.
Source: Ministry of justice Jul 17, 2023
Macao, China
Macao, China sees 28.2 million tourist arrivals in 2023 – MGTO.
Source: Macau Business Jan 2, 2024
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Officials hope to expand Macao’s marine tourism offerings.
Source: The Macao News Jan 4, 2024
A date has finally been locked in for Treasure Island’s grand opening.
Source: The Macao News Jan 4, 2024
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All arrivals, regardless of their nationalities, do not require prior approval from the health authorities to enter Macao, nor do they need to present any COVID-19 test result or undergo medical observation upon entry.
Source: Health Bureau of Macao SAR Government, Aug 30, 2023
Mongolia
2023 visitor arrivals surpass 2019, seeks to grow tourism sector in 2024.
Source: CNA Jan 5, 2024
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Arxan embraces snow to cultivate thriving tourism.
Source: Chinaculture.org Dec 18, 2023
Beijing Daxing International Airport opens first direct flight to Mongolia.
Source: China Daily Dec 3, 2023
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No negative PCR or rapid test results are required to enter Mongolia before departure or upon arrival at the border points. No quarantine or self-isolation. These provisions apply to all ages, and both vaccinated and non-vaccinated.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, Consular Department Mar 14, 2023.
Mongolia and Vietnam have signed a mutual Mongolia-Vietnam visa waiver agreement. Nationals from these bilateral destinations will be exempt for visa required.Source: Vietnam Immigration Nov 2, 2023
Bangladesh
Bangladesh to seek entry-exit to India through any check-post to facilitate travel.
Source: The Financial Express Jan 2, 2024
Bangladesh to become 2nd-fastest economy among 46 nations.
Source: The Daily Star Dec 13, 2023
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Biman to start operating Dhaka-Rome flights from March.
Source: The Business Standard Dec 11, 2023
Biman Bangladesh Airlines commence three weekly flights on Dhaka – Chennai route from December 16.
Source: Travel Trade Journal Dec 14, 2023
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Passengers arriving from outside of Bangladesh need not fill up an online Health Declaration Form and need not provide an RT-PCR test report or a Covid-19 Vaccination Card or Certificate. Restrictions to wearing masks, keeping social distance and other preventive measures related to COVID-19 spread are hereby made relaxed. Hajj passengers must abide by the conditions set by the KSA and keep themselves away from camel to prevent the spread of MARS Virus.
Source: Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh May 30, 2023
- Bangladesh has visa exemption agreement with Maldives for all passport holders (Excluding Employment)- Bangladesh has signed visa waiver agreements with Serbia and Argentina but has not yet entered into force.
Source: Visa Waiver Agreement Apr 25, 2023
Bhutan
Bhutan King announces over 1,000 sq km Gelephu city project along Indo-Bhutan border.
Source: Moneycontrol Dec 18, 2023
Bhutan renews carbon-negative pledge.
Source: China Daily Dec 16, 2023
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Intrepid Travel offers sustainability programme for hotel partners, to pilot in Bhutan in Jan.
Source: Travel Weekly Nov 30, 2023
IHCL expands presence in Bhutan with signing of two Taj Hotels.
Source: Travel and Tour World Dec 10, 2023
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- All individuals (> 12 year old) entering Bhutan may be subjected to random RT-PCR testing at the points of entry or at the worksite with no fee charged. Positive-tested guests are required to quarantine in their hotel until they test negative and bear all costs for additional quarantine nights and PCR tests.
- There are now no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for adults or children to enter Bhutan.
There will be no COVID-19 protocols to leave Bhutan, unless the country the guest is travelling to requires them.
Source: Tourism Council of Bhutan Sep 16, 2022
Bhutan has announced a new travel incentive on Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). Bookings made from June 1, 2023 onwards will be eligible for the exclusive SDF incentives for US Dollar SDF-paying guests, and are valid for stays in Bhutan between June 1, 2023 until December 31, 2024. Visitors can choose the preferred incentive options based on their planned itinerary. There are also SDF calculators available on the Department of Immigration's website.
Source: Tourism Council of Bhutan June 6, 2023
India
India’s domestic air passenger traffic at record high in 2023.
Source: The Indian Express Jan 3, 2024
Agoda reveals new horizons list for India's travel landscape.
Source: The Economic Times Jan 7, 2024
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India to invest ₹45,000 crore in inland waterways and river cruise tourism by 2047.
Source: Economic Times Jan 9, 2024
Etihad Airways adds new India destinations to its 2024 schedule.
Source: Airport Technology Jan 4, 2024
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Diplomatic/Official/Ordinary passport holders participants/delegates intending to attend G20 meetings may apply for Indian e-Visa and Reguler Visa through Indian Visa Online and select "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" as visa application purpose.
Source: Indian Visa Application Apr 17, 2023
The Union Health Ministry has further eased COVID-19 guidelines for international visitors, dropping the earlier requirement for RT-PCR based testing of a random 2% subset of international travellers. The new guidelines shall come into effect from midnight of July 20.
Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Aug 1, 2023
Maldives
Over 2 lakh Indians visited Maldives annually post-COVID; near double to 11% in 5 years.
Source: Deccan Herald; The Indian Express Jan 9, 2024
Maldives welcomes first tourist of the year, sets target for two million arrivals.
Source: The Edition Jan 1, 2024
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Maldives gears up for Air Ambulance Services.
Source: BNN Breaking Dec 25, 2023
Maldivian seeks wide-body aircraft for direct international flights.
Source: The Edition Jan 1, 2024 -
There are no COVID-19 restrictions in place for travel to Maldives. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19.
Passengers must complete a Traveller Declaration Form within 96 hours of both their arrival and their departure flights. Maldivians are no longer required to submit the Declaration form.
Source: DFA & Maldives immigration Nov 27, 2023
Effective from May 14, 2023, “Meeting Visa” will be granted for any foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of attending a meeting, conference, or convention held in the Maldives. Meeting Visa does not require pre-approval, and it will be issued to foreign nationals who meet the entry requirements under the mentioned visa.
Source: Maldives Immigration May 23, 2023
Nepal
Nepali tourists ranked 7th among foreign visitors to India in 2022.
Source: myRepublica Dec 19, 2023
About 100K tourists visit Nepal in December; one million tourists visit Nepal in post-COVID era.
Source: myRepublica; Travel Daily News Jan 9, 2024
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Everest side reopens to international climbers.
Source: Gripped Jan 8, 2024
Himalaya Jet announces Nepal as its first destination.
Source: The Himalayan Jan 6, 2024
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Pakistan
Pakistan saw over 115% increase in tourism in 2023: Wasi Shah.
Source: Radio Pakistan Jan 1, 2024
Pakistan earns US $225M from travel services’ export in Jul-Oct.
Source: Associated Press of Pakistan Jan 4, 2024
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Gwadar Development Authority launches committee to boost tourism sector.
Source: BNN Breaking Jan 6, 2024
Normal fee for new E-passport in Islamabad, KP December 2023.
Source: Pakistan Observer Dec 16, 2023
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Inbound passengers no longer need to present COVID-19 vaccine certificate/ negative PCR Report before boarding flights or upon arrival.
Source: Geo News Jun 26, 2023
Pakistanis need to get updated polio vaccination cards before travelling abroad. Pakistanis who need to update their polio vaccination status should visit any government hospital or medical facility to get polio drops and request fill in the form via the National Immunization Management System portal.
Source: Pakistan Observer Aug 1, 2023
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s 2023 tourism revenue jumps to $2.1B from previous year’s $1.1B; ambitious targets for 2024.
Source: EconomyNext; TTG Asia Jan 8, 2024
SL to lure 1M Chinese tourists under ‘Ni Hao Zhong Guo’ programme.
Source: Daily Mirror Jan 9, 2024
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India tops the list of source markets for tourism into Sri Lanka in 2023.
Source: DD News Jan 8, 2024
Estonia Launches Direct Flights to Sri Lanka.
Source: Lanka Business Online Dec 20, 2023
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Travel Policy Dec' 22 still as on January 19, 2023 -
1) The requirement to produce COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate by any person arriving to Sri Lanka via any airport or sea port is hereby removed.
2) If foreign nationals/tourists become COVID-19 positive after arriving to Sri Lanka, they should isolate for 7 days in a private hospital/hotel/place of residence. The cost of treatment/isolation should be borne by foreign nationals/tourists.Source: Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka Jan 19, 2023
"Sri Lanka is giving dual entry status on arrival to travellers from India and 6 other countries, wherein the visa validity would be limited to 30 days’ stay. This would be carried out as a pilot project effective until March 24, 2024.-The Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka has announced the implementation of a new initiative granting free tourist visas to Indian travellers, who constitute the largest inbound group to the island nation"
Source: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Oct 23,2023
Southeast Asia:
Cambodia
Angkor Archaeological Park welcomes nearly 800,000 international tourists in 2023: Official.
Source: ECNS Jan 4, 2024
‘Visit Siem Reap’ campaign aiming to rev up numbers.
Source: The Phnom Penh Post Jan 6, 2024
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Cambodia state news announces 2024 minimum wage increase for garment, footwear, travel goods sectors.
Source: Bloomberg Tax Jan 4, 2024
Cambodia's wetland gems a magnet for tourists; govt aim to push programmes to attract more foreign visitors.Source: The Star Jan 7, 2024
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Cambodia lifts all COVID-19-related restrictions for international travellers, including testing and vaccination requirements.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Cambodia October 10, 2022
The government of Cambodia now allow travellers from all countries to apply for an electronic visa certificate (Visa Type E). To apply, applicants must complete the application online and use the country’s passport reader technology.
Source: Cambodia eVisa Apr 17, 2023
Indonesia
Indonesia welcomes over 10.4M foreign tourists in 11 months; eyes $25 billion additional revenues with expanded visa-free entry policy in 2024.
Source: Vietnam Plus; Economy Middle East Jan 5, 2024
Bali aims to welcome 7M tourists in 2024; Riau Islands aims 3M foreign tourists.
Source: The Bali Sun; Tempo.co Jan 5, 2024
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Officials explains how new tourist tax will protect Bali.
Source: The Bali Sun Jan 6, 2024
Lion Air to introduce new Pekanbaru-Surabaya route on Jan 12.
Source: Tempo.co Jan 8, 2024
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PCR test is no longer required to enter Indonesia if a traveller is fully vaccinated. Showing insurance coverage statement for COVID-19 treatment in Indonesia is no longer required.
Source: National Committee of Indonesia's Chairmanship in ASEAN Sept 1, 2023
Indonesia update the list of countries for Visa on Arrival (VOA) and Electronic Visa on Arrival (E-VOA) Holders. Travellers can enjoy a 30-day stay in Indonesia, which can be extended to 60 days.
Source: Directorate General of Immigration Sept 4, 2023
Lao PDR
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Vietjet Adds More Airbus A320 Routes To Cambodia and Laos.
Source: Simple Flying Dec 17, 2023
Lao Elephant Festival 2024 hoped to attract visitors to Xayaboury.
Source: Vietnam Plus Jan 4, 2024
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Travellers are no longer required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or COVID-19 test results at any international airports, land border crossings, or ports of entry in Lao PDR.
Source: Lao News Agency Dec 27, 2023
Malaysia
Malaysia and Singapore gaming sectors rise on Chinese tourism.
Source: Investing.com Jan 7, 2024
China-Malaysia Tourism: Visa-free travel to boost travel in both directions.
Source: CGTN Jan 2, 2024
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Singaporeans travelling to Malaysia will not be required to fill up the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), which will otherwise be compulsory from Jan 1 for foreign travellers.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia Dec 8, 2023
The Malaysian government has announced that tourists from China and India will be allowed 30-day visa-free entry from Dec. 1 as part of its tourism and economic revival efforts.
Source: Belt and road porta, DD News Nov 27, 2023
Myanmar
Nearly 2M tourists visit Myanmar's famed archaeological site Bagan in 10 months.
Source: Xinhua Nov 21, 2023
Over 1M global travellers visited Myanmar from Jan to Oct.
Source: The Nation Dec 9, 2023
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Myanmar tourists revel in Chiang Rai’s new skywalk adventure.
Source: Nation Thailand Dec 23, 2023
Annual Chiang Mai flower festival returns.
Source: Bangkok Post Dec 14, 2023
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Travellers arriving in Myanmar must complete a Health Declaration Form and provide accurate information; any false details may lead to legal action. Foreigners must submit COVID-19 medical insurance documentation from their home country or internationally recognised insurers; otherwise, they must purchase it from Myanmar insurance. Thermal screening will be conducted upon arrival, with symptomatic individuals tested for COVID-19.
Source: Ministry of Immigration & population Sep 11, 2023
Effective from September 1, 2023, certain Asia country passport holders do not require a visa for tourist visits of up to Extension Period if entering and departing from Yangon, Mandalay, or Naypyidaw International Airports.
Source: Ministry of Immigration & population Sep 18, 2023
Philippines
PH records 5.45M int’l tourists in 2023, P480B in tourism receipts; sets 2024 7.7M int'l tourists target.
Source: TTR Weekly; Manila Bulletin Jan 8, 2024
Bohol economy surges 7.1% on strong tourism in 2023.
Source: Manila Bulletin Jan 9, 2024
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Philippines anticipate tourism surge with more long weekends in 2024.
Source: Travel Daily News Jan 9, 2024
NAIA ends 2023 with record-high number of flights.
Source: The Philippine Star Jan 7, 2024
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As of July 21, 2023 President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced the lifting of the Public Health Emergency throughout the Philippines due to COVID-19.
As stated in the announcement “All prior orders, memoranda, and issuances that are effective only during the State of Public Health Emergency shall be deemed withdrawn, revoked or cancelled and shall no longer be in effect.
Source: Tourism Philippines Sep 18, 2023
In an advisory dated Nov. 30, the DFA said the operations of its Philippine e-Visa System in China will be temporarily suspended “until further notice”.
Source: Philippine News Agency Dec 3, 2023
Singapore
Changi Airport boosts spontaneous travel with “Shall We Just Go?”
Source: Travel Daily News Jan 2, 2024
Indian arrivals to Singapore approach pre-pandemic levels.
Source: TTG Asia Jan 2, 2024
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Budget accommodation options on the rise in Singapore, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Source: CNA Jan 2, 2024
Vistara doubles Mumbai-Singapore flights.
Source: TTR Weekly Jan 3, 2024 -
There are no longer any COVID-19 measures for travellers arriving in Singapore from Feb 13, 2023, regardless of vaccination status or traveller profile. However, there is a Yellow Fever Requirement for travellers who have visited any country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission in the past 6 days before arrival in Singapore to provide an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever or quarantine for up to 6 days on arrival if they cannot meet the requirement. Travellers must ensure that they fulfil all other general entry requirements as listed on Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore website.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore Feb 13, 2023
Saudi nationals with passports issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will no longer need to apply for an entry visa to enter Singapore from June 1, 2023 (inclusive).
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore May 23, 2023
Thailand
Thailand's hotel industry ‘100% recovered’ by December end; Chiang Mai tourism expected to recover to pre-COVID levels in 2025.
Source : The Nation; The Nation Jan 4, 2024
Malaysia surpassed China to become biggest source market for Thailand tourism in 2023; expects 75% recovery in Chinese tourists this year.
Source : VnExpress; Khaosod English Jan 6, 2023
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Eight new airlines set to start services in Thailand this year as leisure travel rebounds.
Source: Bloomberg Jan 2, 2024
Thailand approves tax cuts on alcoholic beverages, entertainment venues to boost tourism.
Source: Market Screener Jan 2, 2024
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Agreement on mutual visa exemption reached between Thailand and China from March 1, 2024.
Source: Royal Thai Government Jan 2, 2024
The Cabinet agreed to exempt Japanese businessmen making business trips to Thailand, of no longer than 30 days, from requiring a visa, effective from January 1, 2024 until December 31, 2026.
Source: Thai PBS Dec 13, 2023
Timor-Leste
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No Update
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"- All terrestrial border posts are functioning as normal.
- PCR test for incoming passengers are not required, but relevant document proving complete vaccination is required.
- Individuals who present symptoms of COVID-19 or SARS-Cov-2 upon arrival are still obliged to get medical examinations at the health facility by the isolation unit at entry points.
- Individuals who are tested positive are subject to therapeutic isolation mandatory at individual’s residence or designated accommodation facilities available in the country or at isolation health facility upon recommendation by the isolation unit."
Source: Tourism Timor-Leste Apr 25, 2023
" - Except for Indonesian, Portuguese, and United States nationals, advance ""Visa Application Authorization"" is required.- Indonesian nationals can apply on arrival at any border post, including land borders and Dili airport/sea port.
- Portuguese, US, and Timorese (using Portuguese passports) enjoy visa exemption for tourism."
Source: Timor leste custom authority Aug 14, 2023
Vietnam
Vietnam aims to welcome 17-18 million int’l tourists in 2024.
Source: Vietnam Net Jan 2, 2024
Vietnam tourism searches grow at sixth fastest rate in the world; Hoi An, HCM City among trending destinations.
Source: The Star; Vietnam Plus Jan 8, 2024
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Hai Phong strives to welcome 9.1 million tourists in 2024; Da Nang moves to become leading wedding tourism destination.
Source: Vietnam Plus; Vietnam Plus; Vietnam Plus Jan 5, 2024
Hanoi-HCM City becomes world’s 4th busiest domestic air route.
Source: Vietnam Plus Jan 2, 2024 -
Vietnam has extended the validity of tourist e-visas to 90 from 30 days, with multiple entries, and tripled the duration of visa-free stays for visitors from certain countries to 45 days.
Source: Vietnam Immigration Department Oct 15, 2023
Mongolia and Vietnam have signed a mutual Mongolia-Vietnam visa waiver agreement. Nationals from these bilateral destinations will be exempt for visa required.
Source: Vietnam National Authority of Tourism Nov 2, 2023
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan records notable growth in tourist arrivals.
Source: Trend News Agency Jan 8, 2024
Azerbaijan allocates 169.8 ha for development of Baku resort tourism.
Source: APA Jan 8, 2024
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Goygol, Absheron & Shahdag among TOP 3 most visited national parks.
Source: Azer News Jan 8, 2024
AZAL to launch flights to Gatwick Airport in London.
Source: Report News Agency Jan 1, 2024
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From March 28, 2023, entry into and exit out of the Republic of Azerbaijan of all foreign citizens, citizens of other countries permanently residing in those countries and stateless persons was permitted by air transport.
Source: Azerbaijan Tourism Board Apr 24, 2023
Azerbaijan has extended the closure of its land borders to ‘prevent the spread of COVID-19’ until April, despite dropping most COVID-related restrictions, including air travel.
Source: Azerbaijan Tourism Board Apr 24, 2023
Saudi Arabia
Riyadh Season draws over 12 million visitors in 60 days.
Source: Travel Trade Journal Jan 5, 2024
Saudi Arabia hotel market soars with vision 2030.
Source: Travel and Tour World Jan 9, 2024
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Saudi Arabia launches tourism project in Madinah to promote Islamic heritage.
Source: ZAWYA Jan 8, 2024
Six Senses Wadi Safar coming to Saudi Arabia.
Source: Luxury Travel Advisor Jan 8, 2024
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All travellers must fill out the Registration Immunization Information Form on the Muqeem Portal before travelling to the Saudi Arabia to allow travellers to register their immunization data. The Tawakkalna Application on mobile phone might be useful while in Saudi Arabia to show vaccination status at any stage.
Source: DFA Saudi Arabia Apr 28, 2023
Nationals from Turkiye, Thailand, Panama, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Seychelles and Mauritius can now request Saudi Arabia’s electronic tourist visa.The visitor e-visa is valid for an entire year, grants multiple entries and permits a stay of up to 90 days. Additionally, Visit Saudi offers an online trip planner for visitors to create custom itineraries with ease.
Source: Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia Oct 18, 2023
United Arab Emirates
UAE rolls out quicker schengen visas, reduced fares for expats.
Source: Travel + Leisure Jan 9, 2024
More than 1.2 million passengers travelled through Dubai around New Year.
Source: Khaleej Times Jan 4, 2024
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Ras Al Khaimah sets two Guinness World Records with its NYE show.
Source: Breaking Travel News Jan 2, 2024
All five UAE major airlines ranked in world's safest top 20.
Source: What's On Jan 9, 2024 -
Those who are vaccinated against COVID-19, must present the vaccination certificate containing a QR code. They are not required to present a negative result of RT-PCR test for COVID-19 at the airport of departure.
Those who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, can either present a valid, negative result of an RT-PCR test conducted within 48 hours before arrival, or present a recovery certificate (containing a QR code) from COVID-19 issued within 30 days before departure, if they were previously infected with the virus.
Source: Ministry of Cabinet Affair Apr 28, 2023
Tourists can now also obtain a fee-free visa for children under the age of 18 years during the summer period from July 15 to September 15 of each year.Source: Ministry of Cabinet Affair Dec 3, 2023