News

Bali Offers Unique Cultural Experiences During Mount Agung Sacred Season

In a move that may impact many travellers, Bali’s iconic Mount Agung will remain off-limits to tourists from March 28 to April 24, 2026, as part of important religious ceremonies. These sacred rituals, central to the island’s cultural and spiritual traditions, require the area surrounding Mount Agung to be closed to all trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts during this period. Although the closure is not related to any safety concerns, it serves as a reminder for travellers to respect local customs and explore other offerings that Bali has to offer beyond its popular trekking routes. Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest peak, holds immense spiritual significance for the island’s Hindu community. Locally revered as the dwelling place of the gods, the mountain is seen as a symbol of spiritual power and a sacred site for rituals that honor the gods and promote harmony between nature and the divine. The Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh (IBTK) ceremony, one of the island’s most profound religious events, takes place at Besakih Temple, often called Bali’s “Mother Temple,” located on the slopes of Mount Agung. While many visitors view Mount Agung for its breathtaking sunrise hikes and panoramic views, for locals, it is much more than just a scenic spot. The closure aligns with the IBTK ceremony, which takes place to cleanse the land and maintain spiritual balance. Authorities have coordinated this sacred time, ensuring the area remains undisturbed for the duration of the rituals, which are essential in maintaining Bali’s deep cultural and spiritual values.

Read more

Japan Unveils 100-Region Strategy to Transform Travel Experiences

In 2026, Asia has been thrust into a major transformation in its tourism sector as Japan announced a groundbreaking initiative to combat overtourism. This ambitious plan, set to be implemented from 2026 to 2030, aims to expand the regions tackling the negative effects of mass tourism from 47 to 100 by 2030. It marks a bold move to strike a balance between tourism growth and maintaining the quality of life for local residents. With over-tourism affecting destinations worldwide, Japan’s initiative sets the stage for a regional shift towards more sustainable, mindful travel. The ripple effect of this plan will extend across Asia, influencing other countries and setting a new standard in tourism management. Overtourism has been a growing issue for several years, with iconic cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, among others, facing the brunt of overcrowded tourist spots, pollution, and strained resources. The influx of visitors has been causing massive disruptions in local communities, with residents often bearing the brunt of overcrowded streets, noise, and damage to cultural heritage. With the recent rebound in tourism following the pandemic, these issues have been reignited, requiring urgent intervention. The overcrowding of popular destinations has led to a decline in both resident satisfaction and visitor experience. Sites that were once tranquil and revered have been turned into overcrowded hotspots. The government of Japan recognized that unchecked tourism growth threatens not only the environment but also the culture and essence of these historic places.

Read more

Japan and Asia Embrace Slow Travel with Culture and Wellness Experiences

The slow travel movement, gaining significant popularity in recent years, offers travelers the chance to deeply engage with the destinations they visit, focusing on cultural immersion and natural beauty rather than rushing through itineraries. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Japan, and Sri Lanka have emerged as prime destinations for this more meaningful, reflective style of travel. These locations not only provide rich histories, diverse landscapes, and vibrant traditions but also encourage visitors to slow down and embrace the local pace of life, offering authentic and transformative travel experiences. In a world where fast-paced travel and packed itineraries are the norm, the trend of slow travel is gaining momentum. More and more travelers are opting for immersive, unhurried experiences, seeking deeper connections with the destinations they visit. Thailand, alongside other notable countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Japan, has emerged as a key player in this movement, offering travelers the chance to slow down and truly engage with local culture, nature, and traditions. Here’s a look at how Thailand joins these destinations in promoting the art of slow travel. Thailand, often known for its bustling cities and vibrant beaches, is increasingly becoming a hub for slow travel enthusiasts. The country’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and laid-back lifestyle make it an ideal place for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local life and nature. Whether it’s spending time in the mountains, exploring the temples, or discovering the vibrant street food culture, Thailand offers something for every slow traveler.

Read more

Mizoram Leads India’s Push for Sustainable and Cultural Tourism

Mizoram, a picturesque state nestled in the northeastern part of India, has taken a significant step towards promoting responsible tourism by focusing on cultural preservation and sustainable travel practices. Known for its lush landscapes, serene hills, and rich cultural heritage, Mizoram offers a unique opportunity for tourists to experience its natural beauty while fostering sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. In recent years, the state government, in collaboration with local communities, has worked on developing tourism infrastructure that emphasizes eco-friendly tourism and cultural conservation. The approach not only preserves Mizoram’s diverse traditions but also ensures that tourism brings long-term benefits to the region without compromising its delicate ecosystem. Mizoram’s cultural richness is one of the key factors driving its tourism growth. The state is home to numerous indigenous communities, each with their own distinct traditions, art forms, and festivals. The state’s cultural heritage offers tourists a chance to explore unique crafts, music, dance, and festivals that reflect the Mizo way of life.

Read more

Thailand, Vietnam, and Seychelles Add Direct Flights for Indian Travellers

Thailand, Vietnam, and Seychelles have recently introduced new direct international flight routes, making it easier than ever for Indian tourists to explore these stunning destinations. By eliminating long layovers and reducing travel time, these new connections provide a seamless and hassle-free journey, allowing travelers to arrive refreshed and ready to experience the unique cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant attractions of these popular locations. With increased accessibility and more frequent flights, these routes are set to transform how Indian travelers plan their international vacations. India has recently introduced four exciting new direct international flight routes to Thailand, Vietnam, and the Seychelles. These routes, launched in 2025, are a game-changer for travelers looking to explore these popular destinations. By offering direct connections, these flights promise to make international travel more convenient and enjoyable by reducing long layovers. Whether you’re heading to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the serene beaches of Krabi, or the tropical paradise of Seychelles, these new routes promise a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Read more

Asia Travel Surges Across Japan, China, and Southeast Asia This Hari Raya

As the Hari Raya season approaches, travel trends indicate an exciting shift in accommodation preferences, with Agoda reporting a significant 55% increase in searches from travelers in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore for stays between March 20 and March 23, 2026. This surge in searches not only highlights the festive travel excitement but also reveals emerging destination preferences, notably Japan and China, that are gaining popularity among holidaymakers this season. Traditionally, during the Hari Raya or Eid al-Fitr period, travel has largely centered around family reunions and hometown visits within Southeast Asia. While familiar destinations such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand remain popular, Agoda’s recent data points to a growing trend of travelers looking beyond these usual destinations. The allure of Japan and China as festive travel destinations has been amplified, as both countries become more accessible with eased visa regulations and the introduction of unique experiences catering to holidaymakers. This evolving trend signals a broader change in the way travelers are approaching the festive season, where familiar holiday destinations are being joined by international spots. These nations are not only easier to access but also provide diverse cultural offerings that are attracting more visitors this year. China, in particular, saw a 7% year-on-year increase in accommodation searches during this festive period, thanks in part to its more relaxed visa and transit policies. Likewise, Japan’s appeal is rising as the country continues to ramp up efforts to attract more international tourists, with a target of 60 million foreign visitors annually by 2030.

Read more