ASEAN Tourism Forum: 2026 travel trends and learnings

The ASEAN Tourism Forum is an annual travel conference that brings together buyers and media across the globe in one of the ASEAN countries to showcase the offerings of the region.

Each of the ASEAN countries will take turns alphabetically to host the ASEAN Tourism Forum, and in 2026 is the Philippines’ turn to host the ATF in Lapu Lapu City, Mactan, Cebu. 

Eight of the countries took turns to brief the media about their latest development in both MICE (corporate and business) and leisure, and I’m here to update you on the leisure trends!

For more about what it’s like to attend ATF as a hosted media, see my post here (coming soon)

Philippines Tourism Board Media Briefing

The Philippines is seeing tourism numbers rising back towards pre-COVID levels, some quick facts:

• 694 billion pesos in revenue in 2025
• 112.85 USD average spend per day
• 11 nights average stay for visitors

Immigration and visa for the Philippines 

They are now making immigration easier than ever with Visa-free extending to:

• Indian
• Taiwanese
• Chinese nationals
• Visa waiver for cruise passengers
• New digital nomad visa

See here for the full list of countries with visa exemption.

Connectivity to the Philippines

While flights are still resuming towards pre-COVID levels, they are expanding air connectivity with new routes from San Francisco and Seattle in the US, Vancouver in Canada, Russia, and many in Asia.

They are also focusing on providing better transit tours, and tourist medical concierge is another area they are focusing on.

Facilities for Tourists in the Philippines 

There is now a hotline: DOT first tourists assistance call – 151-TOUR8687 that can assist tourists 24 hours. 

They introduced 12 tourist rest areas with facilities to provide clean, accessible, and secure spaces to rest.

Tourism trends in the Philippines 

The government has also launched the Filipinization program to incorporate Filipino elements in architecture and design, food etc. This makes sure that the local culture is well represented and brings a more authentic experience to the tourists at every level.

Here are also the key areas the government is looking at:

• Muslim friendly travel destination (rose from 12th in 2024 to 8th in 2025)
• Community-based tourism – spotlighting local traditions and culture such as weaving, storyteller, and festivals
• Dive tourism 
• Golf tourism 
• Sports tourism 
• Motorbike and cycling tourism

Vietnam Tourism Media Briefing

Vietnam sees only 21.2 million international tourists in 2025, with a blooming domestic tourist number of 137 million. The country is further opening up with greater connectivity and focusing more on eco tourism.

Visa and connectivity to Vietnam

Vietnam has introduced a 90-day multi-entry e-visa for all countries, which can be applied via their official website. 

You can check whether you are eligible for visa exemption or should apply for the e-visa. For e-visa, it’s easiest to apply online through a travel agency, but be sure to do so with ample time. I suggest doing so at least 10 working days before your trip. Although you can pay more to have an expedite e-visa approval.

Note: for visa exemption, it refreshes every 30 days, so make sure that between your trips there is enough time.

Tourism trends in Vietnam

Vietnam’s main attractions are:

• The 8 UNESCO Heritage sites
  • Complex of Huế Monuments (1993): The former imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, featuring palaces, tombs, and pagodas.
  • Hoi An Ancient Town (1999): An exceptionally preserved 15th-19th century Southeast Asian trading port.
  • My Son Sanctuary (1999): A cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed by the Champa kingdom.
  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi (2010): A 1,000-year-old center of regional political power.
  • Citadel of the Ho Dynasty (2011): A 14th-century stone citadel representing new trends in Southeast Asian imperial architecture. 
  • Ha Long Bay (1994, 2000): A stunning coastal area with thousands of limestone karsts and islets.
  • Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (2003): Known for its complex karst formations, vast caves, and high biodiversity, now a transboundary site with Laos. 

They are now also focusing on

• Living traditions such as festivals, craft villages
• Diverse ethnic culture, especially in the mountainous region in the north
• Culinary destinations
• Trekking (in the north and also in Phong-Nha Ke Bang National Park)
• Motorbike tourism – famous for the Ha Giang Loop and also north to south (or reverse) motorbike trip to explore the country
• Water sports
• Wellness and Medical Tourism

What’s new in Vietnam

The Ba Na Hill in Danang is most recently renovated in 2020 by the Sun Group and now a major tourist attractions combining natural beauty with entertainment.

Ha Noi’s 5 Gates Heritage Train – new cultural heritage tourist trains launched in Hanoi. It is the first double-decker sightseeing train going from Hanoi to Tu Son in Bac Ninh Province. There are themed carriages, cultural performances, and you would be able to explore from the Ly Dynasty at Tu Son.

Schedule:

• Daily 8am, return from Tu Son 10:30am
• Sat – Sun additional train at 13:30, return at 17:00.
• Duration: around 3.5 hours round-trip
• Book here with laughtraveleatklook for up to 10%off

Indonesia Tourism Board Media Briefing

The numbers for Indonesia have risen back to pre-covid level for foreign tourists arrival, with the domestic tourism numbers on record high.

Visa and Connectivity to Indonesia

It is now easier than ever to enter Indonesia with the All Indonesia website or app, where you can fill in and submit your customs declaration as well as apply, and pay for visas on arrival together.

With all the information submitted in advance, you can use the immigration e-gate to avoid long queues.

Check here on whether or not you need a visa and if you are eligible for visa on arrival. 

Travel Trends in Indonesia

To help the tourists with their travel planning, they have launched an AI travel agent and planner for tourists:

MaiA – she can help each user to search for experiences on the tourism website and help them refine their itinerary

They have also listed out their tourism treasures:

• Toba Lake, North Sumatera
• Greater Riau Islands – near Sinagpore
• Tanjung Kelayang Bangka Belitung
• Greater Jakarta
• Bromo-Tengger-Semeru, East Java
• Tanjung Lesung, Banten
• Borodudur, Central Java
• Greater Bali
• Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi
• Mandalika, West Nusa Tenggara
• Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara
• Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua

For 2026, Indonesia is focusing on quality tourism 6 main trends:

• Nature adventure
• Eco-friendly tourism
• Culinary and gastronomy
• Cultural immersion
• Wellness tourism
• Bleisure

Other fun facts and inspiration on Indonesia:

• Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, ranking 6th as the largest maritime territory and part of the coral triangle.
• There are over 700 ethnic cultures and languages across the many islands of Indonesia.
• Indonesia is ranked 9th as the global supplier of spices
• South Sulawaesi, Bali, and Lombok are the birth place of Phinisi, a luxurious traditional liveboard recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Javanese Yoga, a form of traditional dance, is native to the island of Java
• Ubud is the culinary capital of Indonesia
• If you are interested in spa, Yogyakarta is up and coming, and you can also visit the Borobudur temple

Tourism Villages of Indonesia

There are 6074 tourism villages in Indonesia that are managed by themselves to showcase their own unique culture. Out of them all, three of them have won awards:

• Penglipuran, Bali – sustainable tourism award
• Nglanggeran, Yogyakarta – UNWTO Best tourism village
• Wae Rebo, East Nusa T – ASEAN Tourism Award

Singapore Tourism Media Briefing

Singapore has long been a popular travel destination but they are consistently developing their touristic attractions so that foreign tourists would have a reason to visit time and again.

They remain to be a top MICE destination with their entertainment and sightseeing section being the biggest income sector.

Singapore Tourism Trends

Singapore’s Changi Airport remains one of the top airports in the world. They are looking to develop their transit visitor market, with Changi Terminal 5 to be completed in the 2030s which would be able to handle 50 million passengers per year. That is on top of the current 90 million capacity.

Singapore New and Upcoming Attractions

Mandai Wildlife

The integrated nature destination features five major wildlife parks: the long-standing Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and the recently relocated Bird Paradise. Joining these icons is thenewly opened Rainforest Wild Asia, a unique adventure-based park where you can explore forest floor treks, traverse a 220-meter cavern inspired by Sarawak’s Mulu Caves, and see species new to Singapore like the François’ langur. The reserve now also offers overnight stays at the eco-friendly Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree and family-centric indoor experiences at Curiosity Cove, Singapore’s largest nature-themed indoor playscape. 

Illumination’s Minion Land at The Universal Studios

Officially opened on February 14, 2025. It replaced the Madagascar zone with 3 distinct themed areas: Gru’s Neighborhood, Minion Marketplace, and Super Silly Fun Land. So if you haven’t been to the Universal Studios for a while, it’s time to go back.

Singapore Oceanarium

Formerly the S.E.A. Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa, it officially reopened on July 24, 2025. The size has tripled to accommodate zones for research and conservation.

Jurassic World: the experience at Gardens by the Bay

Set up in the Cloud Forest, visitors can walk through 13 zones with life-size dinosaurs and other thematic displays alongside the permanent display.

Rainforest Wild Africa (2026)

The next phase for Mandai Wildlife will be an adventure through the flora and fauna of Africa and Madagascar.

Porsche Experience Centre (2027)

The PEC Singapore is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in 2027. It will be the 11th such facility worldwide and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. 

Therme Singapore (2030) 

The Therme Group is developing a S$1 billion ($740M+ USD) next-generation wellness resort in Singapore at Marina South, expected to open by 2030. The 4-hectare waterfront site will feature thermal pools, botanical gardens, and water slides, aiming to attract 2 million visitors annually.

New hotels launched/launching in Singapore

Expansion of Integrated Resorts, Marina Bay Sands, and Resorts World Sentosa (by 2030)

Marina Bay Sands

A new luxury 4th tower of 55-storey designed by Safdie Architects will be built by the 2030s with a luxury hotel, 76,000-square-foot “Skyloop” rooftop offering 360-degree views, infinity pools, and high-end dining. There will also be a state-of-the-art 15,000-seat entertainment arena and 200,000 square feet of premium MICE space to cement Singapore’s status as a global business and luxury travel.

Resort World Sentosa

The S$6.8 billion “RWS 2.0” project is a comprehensive transformation focusing on non-gaming lifestyle attractions, anchored by a massive waterfront development slated for completion by 2030. Key features include an 88-meter-tall light sculpture, two new luxury hotels adding 700 keys, and a scenic four-storey retail and dining complex with an immersive “mountain trail” offering panoramic views. 

Raffles Sentosa Singapore

Officially opened in March 2025, Raffles Sentosa is Singapore’s first all-villa resort, offering a secluded sanctuary across 100,000 square meters of tropical greenery. The property features 62 luxurious private villas, each ranging from 211 to 650 square meters and equipped with its own private pool, outdoor terrace, and the brand’s signature butler service. 

Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the resort blends contemporary luxury with nature, offering five dining venues, a world-class spa in a converted heritage building, and direct access to Tanjong Beach.

METT Singapore

Located in the heart of Fort Canning Park, METT Singapore made its bold Asia-Pacific debut in late 2025 within a restored 1926 colonial building that once served as the British Far East Command Headquarters. This “effortlessly chic” lifestyle hotel features 84 serene rooms and suites that balance heritage charm with contemporary design, alongside social-centric amenities like two outdoor pools and a dedicated wellness hub.

A highlight for 2026 is the launch of Madison House, a private members’ club featuring the “Longevity Suite,” which integrates advanced biohacking technologies with holistic wellness.

Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree

Marking a major “homecoming” for the brand, the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree officially opened in November 2025 as Singapore’s first eco-luxury wildlife retreat. Situated within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the resort offers 338 rooms, including 24 iconic seed-pod-shaped treehouses that provide panoramic views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir. 

As a “Super Low Energy” resort, it emphasizes biophilic design and sustainability, offering guests exclusive wildlife experiences and direct proximity to major attractions like Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild Asia.

Colugo Camp at Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Colugo Camp launched in August 2025 as a permanent, all-inclusive glamping experience located within the Mandai Wildlife East precinct. The site features 20 safari-style tents (4m x 5m) equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and plush bedding, designed to accommodate families of up to four people. Stays are bundled into a comprehensive “Roar and Rest” package that includes guided wildlife tours, park admission to the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, and all meals served in a communal dining hall overlooking the reservoir.

The Lauurus Resorts World Sentosa

The Lauurus is a key component of the massive RWS 2.0 expansion, contributing to the resort’s goal of enhancing its luxury accommodation offerings by 2030. Part of the new waterfront development, it is designed to cater to high-end travelers looking for exclusive, wellness-oriented stays within a vibrant entertainment hub. While specific room counts are often grouped under the broader 700-key expansion of the waterfront, it remains a cornerstone of the resort’s shift toward sophisticated, non-gaming lifestyle tourism.

Mama Shelter Singapore

Mama Shelter Singapore is set to bring its signature playful and “purposefully social” vibe to the city, marking the brand’s first foray into the Lion City. Known for eclectic, flamboyant interiors and vibrant rooftop bar scenes, the hotel is designed to be a community hub rather than just a place to sleep. It targets a younger, design-conscious demographic, offering a mix of affordable luxury and high-energy social spaces that differentiate it from the traditional luxury hotels in the central business district.

PARKROYAL COLLECTION Orchard (2026)

Scheduled for a major relaunch or debut in 2026, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Orchard continues the brand’s “hotel-in-a-garden” philosophy in the heart of Singapore’s premier shopping belt. The project focuses on integrating lush vertical greenery and sustainable architecture into the urban environment, providing a biophilic retreat for business and leisure travelers alike. Guests can expect highly efficient, eco-friendly systems and curated wellness experiences that align with the brand’s commitment to regenerative tourism and green living.

Mövenpick Hotel & Mövenpick Living Singapore (2027)

Targeted for a 2027 opening, the dual-branded Mövenpick Hotel and Mövenpick Living Singapore will offer a versatile mix of traditional hotel rooms and extended-stay apartments. Located to serve both the leisure and corporate markets, the property will emphasize the brand’s famous “culinary heritage,” including its signature chocolate hours and international dining. This development reflects the growing demand in Singapore for flexible accommodation options that combine the services of a premium hotel with the comforts of a private residence.

Iconic Events in Singapore

Singapore Art Week (SAW)

Returning in January 2026, Singapore Art Week is the pinnacle of the city’s visual arts calendar, featuring over 150 events across the island. The festival anchors major international fairs like ART SG and S.E.A. Focus, while transforming public spaces and galleries into immersive exhibitions. It serves as a vital platform for Southeast Asian artists, blending high-end art commerce with community-led activations that celebrate Singapore’s growing influence in the global art market.

Major Concerts (e.g., Lady Gaga, BLACKPINK)

Building on the “concert tourism” momentum of 2024, Singapore’s 2025–2026 lineup is rumored to feature global icons like Lady Gaga and a highly anticipated BLACKPINK world tour. These mega-events are primarily hosted at the Singapore National Stadium or the upcoming 15,000-seat MBS Arena, drawing hundreds of thousands of regional fans. The government continues to leverage the Top Tier Event Fund to secure exclusive Southeast Asian stops for A-list artists, cementing the city’s status as the region’s entertainment capital.

Waterbomb Festival Singapore

Following its massive success in 2024, Waterbomb Singapore is set to return as a staple of the August summer circuit at Siloso Beach. This South Korean-born festival combines high-energy K-pop, Hip-hop, and EDM performances with large-scale “water battles” where the audience and artists drench each other. The event attracts a Gen Z and Millennial crowd, featuring top-tier Korean talent and local acts in a vibrant, wet-and-wild beach party atmosphere.

Bubbling & Boiling Festival

Originally from China, the Bubbling & Boiling Music and Arts Festival made its massive international debut at Resorts World Sentosa in September 2025. This multi-genre event is a “cultural explosion” featuring a star-studded lineup of Mandopop and K-pop giants like KUN, (G)I-DLE, and Joey Yung. Beyond the music, the festival is known for integrating traditional Chinese cultural experiences—such as Hanfu fashion shows and Minnan games—with cutting-edge digital art installations and “tropical fantasy” immersive zones.

World Aquatics Championships 2025

Singapore will host the World Aquatics Championships from July 11 to August 3, 2025, marking the first time the prestigious event visits Southeast Asia. Over 2,500 athletes from 200 countries will compete in swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming, open water swimming, and high diving. Events will be held across world-class venues like the Singapore Sports Hub and Sentosa, positioning Singapore as a premier destination for elite international sports.

HYROX Open Asia Championship

The HYROX Open Asia Championship has become a cornerstone of Singapore’s fitness calendar, typically held at EXPO or the National Stadium. This mass-participation fitness race combines 8km of running with 8 functional workout stations, attracting thousands of “hybrid athletes” from across the continent. As the regional flagship event, the championship offers qualification slots for the World Championships, fostering a massive community of competitive fitness enthusiasts.

Wellness Festival Singapore (WFS)

Usually held in June, Wellness Festival Singapore is a city-wide celebration featuring over 250 holistic programs ranging from “slow-stitch” therapy to massive fitness classes at the Glow Festival. The event spans multiple hubs like Marina Bay and Sentosa, focusing on mental health, physical fitness, and nutritional wellness. It aligns with the national goal of becoming a “Wellness Haven,” offering residents and tourists unique experiences like forest bathing in the heart of the city.

Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS)

Anchored by the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix every September, GPSS extends the race excitement into a 10-day festival of parties, retail pop-ups, and dining experiences. While the night race takes place on the Marina Bay Street Circuit, precincts like Orchard Road and Clarke Quay host themed activations and live performances. It remains Singapore’s most lucrative annual event, drawing a global elite and massive international media coverage.

Christmas on a Great Street

From November to early January, Orchard Road transforms into a festive wonderland for the annual Christmas on a Great Street light-up. The event features miles of spectacular LED arches, themed decorations, and the “Great Christmas Village” with carnival rides and pop-up food stalls. It is a signature tourist draw, culminating in massive year-end celebrations and immersive digital projections on the facades of major shopping malls.

Marina Bay Singapore Countdown

The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown is the nation’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration, headlined by a spectacular fireworks display over the bay. The event features a multi-sensory show including drone lights, music, and the “Share the Hope” projection mapping on the Fullerton Hotel and Merlion. It attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators to the waterfront for a night of live concerts, food trucks, and a collective countdown to the new year.

Cruises in Singapore

Singapore is undergoing a significant expansion of its cruise infrastructure and homeported fleet through 2026 and 2027. 

Marina Bay Cruise Centre Upgrade (October 2025)

The Marina Bay Cruise Centre underwent a S$40 million upgrade and expansion completed in October 2025. This project increased the terminal’s passenger handling capacity from 6,800 to 11,700, enabling it to efficiently manage the region’s newest and largest mega-ships.

StarDream’s Star Voyager

Launched officially on March 26, 2025, the Star Voyager is a key addition to the new StarDream Cruises fleet. The 1,800-passenger ship homeports in Singapore, offering “dual homeport” operations that include itineraries to Malaysia (Port Klang), Thailand (Phuket), and Vietnam. It recently underwent a US$50 million renovation to feature upgraded dining and family-friendly lifestyle amenities.

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas

The massive Ovation of the Seas returned to Singapore in October 2025 for a seasonal homeporting stint running through March 2026. It offers a variety of 3- to 8-night getaways to destinations such as Penang, Phuket, and Bali. Following this season, the ship is scheduled for a drydock “amplification” before repositioning to the US via Tokyo in April 2026.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Luminara

The ultra-luxury superyacht Luminara is set to homeport in Singapore as part of its inaugural seasons. Following its 2025 Mediterranean debut, the vessel brings an intimate, boutique hotel experience to Southeast Asia, catering to the high-end “yachting” cruise segment.

Disney Cruise Line: Disney Adventure (March 2026)

Originally slated for late 2025, the maiden voyage of the Disney Adventure has been rescheduled to March 10, 2026. Homeporting in Singapore for at least five years, it will be the largest ship in Disney’s fleet (6,700-passenger capacity) and the first to be based year-round outside the US. It will offer 3- and 4-night “destination-less” voyages focused entirely on the onboard experience across seven themed zones.

Explora Journeys: Explora III (2027)

The Explora III, the first LNG-powered ship in the luxury Explora Journeys fleet, is scheduled to visit Southeast Asia and potentially homeport as part of its global expansion. While it debuts in Europe in summer 2026, its broader international itineraries, including Winter 2026/2027 collections, will bring the “Ocean State of Mind” to Singapore and the surrounding region.

Timor-Leste Tourism Media Briefing

As ASEAN’s newest member and one of the youngest countries in the world, Timor-Leste is an up and coming destination that has amazing nature and a unique blend of cultures from its past.

Quick facts on Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is a dream for nature lovers and culture seekers alike! From world-class diving to sacred mountains, this hidden gem is waiting to be explored.

• Home to 1,200 reef fish species and over 400 types of coral in the heart of the Coral Triangle.
• One-third of the world’s whale and dolphin species migrate through these crystal-clear waters.
• A unique blend of Indigenous, Portuguese, and Catholic influences seen in Uma Lulik sacred houses and colonial architecture.

The main currency used in Timor-Leste is USD, meaning prices are stable and easy to track.

Timor-Leste Visa and Connectivity 

Currently, there are 31 flights per week to Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste from the following cities:

• Bali, Indonesia – daily flights, only 1 hour 50 minutes 
• Darwin, Australia – daily flights, only 1 hour 20 minutes 
• Singapore – Thursday & Sundays, 4 hours
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Mon, Wed, Fri, 4 hours 15 minutes
• Xiamen, China – Aero Dili (T/W), 5 hours 30 minutes
• Fuzhou, China (upcoming) – Aero Dili (S/S), also 5 hours 30 minutes

New routes that they are looking to operate:

• Kupang, Indonesia
• Manila, Philippines
• Bangkok, Thailand
• Melbourne, Australia (via Darwin)

The airport is also being upgraded to 400k-1M annual capacity by 2028.

Cruise & MICE tourism

Cruise and MICE tourism are big on Timor-Leste’s radar and they have various projects in the pipeline:

Tibar Bay Port

Following its official opening in late 2022, Tibar Bay Port has fully replaced the old Dili Port as the nation’s primary gateway for international cargo.

Dili Waterfront Project

With container operations moved to Tibar, the central Dili Port is undergoing a US$50 million transformation into a world-class tourism and cultural hub.

The 2.7km stretch of beach and sidewalk in the north of Avenue de Portugal is backed by China to accommodate a public aquarium, entertainment zones, retain and dining outlets, as well as restored historical buildings.

The former cargo pier now exclusively serves international cruise ships and domestic passenger vessels connecting to Oe-Cússe and Ataúro. A new, larger passenger terminal is being built near the Lighthouse to accommodate the growing number of luxury expedition cruises visiting in 2026 and 2027.

New International Conference Centre (ICC) at old Dili Port to open 2028 and host ASEAN Summit 2029

Top destinations in Timor-Leste

Dili

Serving as the administrative and cultural heart, Dili is currently undergoing a massive transformation with projects mentioned above. Other key landmarks include the iconic Cristo Rei statue (accessible via a 500-step climb) and the Resistance Museum, which offers deep insights into the nation’s history.

Atauru

Located approximately 2 hours by ferry (or 30 minutes by water taxi) from Dili, Ataúro is globally recognized for having the world’s most biodiverse waters. Beyond its famous snorkeling and diving, 2026 offerings emphasize “community-based tourism,” where visitors stay in eco-lodges. Cultural activities include watching the famous Wawata Topu (female spear divers) and visiting the Boneca de Ataúro women’s cooperative for handcrafted souvenirs.

Mount Ramelau (Tatamailau): The Spiritual Peak

A 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Dili takes you to the base of Timor-Leste’s highest peak (2,986m). The mountain is a site of deep religious significance, featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit. In 2026, the trails and base-camp facilities in Hato Builico have been upgraded to support the influx of regional trekkers. Most hikers begin their ascent at 3:00 AM to witness a spectacular “sea of clouds” sunrise over the entire island.

Malaysia Tourism Media Briefing

Malaysia tourism is going strong with their social media presence growing and a focus on authentic and experience-led travel as well as sustainable travel.

Travel Trends in Malaysia

Malaysia is enhancing their promotion program and activities by collaborating with partners and state governments. There is an equal spread of events per month throughout the different states of Malaysia, and you can see the full 2026 calendar here.

Malaysia is also focused on promoting their Medical tourism offerings with high-quality treatment and affordable care.

Another focus area is their language learning offerings with English and Mandarin.

States celebrating visit years

• Johor
• Negeri Sembilan
• Melaka
• Selangor
• Perlis (northern part)

Cambodia Tourism Media Briefing

Cambodia’s efforts are currently focus on opening up to tourists during their green season and also in promoting their cultural festivals.

Visa and Connectivity in Cambodia

Cambodia’s tourists currently arrive 50% by air, and 50% by land, as they share 9 and 6 borders checkpoints with Vietnam and Thailand respectively.

Their newly opened Techo International Airport in September 2025. Located 20km south of Phnom Penh, KTI is a massive Class 4F facility designed to handle wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380.

It can currently handle up to 13 million passengers annually and project to expand to 50  million passengers by 2050, it has completely replaced the old Phnom Penh International Airport for commercial flights. 

China Visa-Free Pilot: Cambodia has officially announced a four-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists (including Hong Kong and Macau SAR passport holders).

Dates: June 15, 2026 – October 15, 2026 – in order to promote their green season

Conditions: Entry is for tourism purposes only, allowing a stay of up to 14 days. This pilot waives the standard US$30 visa fee and does not require a prior application.

Mandatory e-Arrival (CeA): The Cambodia e-Arrival Card is a mandatory digital form that must be completed by all travelers prior to arrival. It integrates the immigration, health, and customs declarations into a single QR-code-based system. 

Cambodia Travel Trends

The “Green Season” (May – October)

Once considered the “off-season,” 2026 sees a major push to rebranded this period as the Lush Oasis season. Travelers are drawn to the vibrant emerald landscapes of the countryside and the “tranquil” atmosphere of the temples without the winter crowds. The cooler, rain-washed air and lower accommodation rates make it a preferred time for wellness retreats and nature photography.

Strong Focus on Muslim Tourism

Cambodia has launched a dedicated “Muslim-Friendly Tourism” initiative for 2026. This includes certifying more Halal-compliant restaurants and prayer facilities at major hubs like the new Techo International Airport and the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport. The Ministry of Tourism is specifically targeting the Malaysian and Indonesian markets to diversify their source of arrivals.

Key Cultural Events in 2026

Angkor Equinox (March 21–23 & September 21–23, 2026)

This astronomical phenomenon, where the sun rises exactly over the central tower of Angkor Wat, has become a global bucket-list event. In 2026, the government has introduced specialized “viewing zones” and photography tours to manage the thousands of visitors who gather at dawn to witness the perfect alignment.

River Festival, Pursat Province (March 21–23, 2026)

The 9th edition of the River Festival will be hosted in Pursat under the theme “River for Peace and Development.” This 3-day event features boat races, traditional Khmer sports, an exhibition of local products (especially Pursat’s famous oranges and marble carvings), and nightly concerts to promote eco-tourism along the Pursat River.

Village Francophone (November 2026)

Coinciding with Cambodia’s bid to host the 20th Francophonie Summit, “Francophone Villages” will be set up in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. These cultural hubs will showcase the French influence on Cambodian architecture, gastronomy, and arts through film screenings, culinary fairs, and literary workshops, celebrating Cambodia’s deep ties to the French-speaking world.

Laos Tourism Media Briefing

One of the most peaceful countries in South East Asia, it borders 5 other countries (Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, China) and is the only South East Asia country one that is landlocked.

The Mekong River is the largest water source and flows through the country, continuing through 

Visa and Connectivity in Laos

China Visa-Free Entry: In a major move for 2026, Laos has implemented a 15-day visa-free entry for Chinese tourists (including Hong Kong and Macau SAR) traveling in organized groups through registered tour operators. This policy aims to capitalize on the high-speed rail connectivity.

Countries that are eligible for visa free entry to Laos: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Lao e-Arrival: Similar to its neighbors, Laos now utilizes the Lao e-Arrival system. While the eVisa remains the primary method for most nationalities to obtain a 30-day tourist visa online, the e-Arrival digital form is now mandatory to streamline immigration, health, and customs declarations before landing or crossing borders.

ASEAN Reciprocity: Citizens of ASEAN countries continue to enjoy visa-free entry for periods ranging from 14 to 30 days.

There are a total of 103 border checkpoints of 3 levels:

• 33 international checkpoints (including 4 international airport)
• 17 local checkpoints
• 53 traditional check points

Rail Connectivity to Laos

Lao-China Railway (LCR): The high-speed rail remains the backbone of Lao tourism in 2026. Daily international cross-border trains connect Kunming to Vientiane in roughly 10 hours.

Lao-Thailand Railway: The extension of the rail link from Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat) directly to Vientiane (Khamsavath Station) is fully operational in 2026. This allows travelers to take a comfortable overnight sleeper train from the Thai capital straight into the heart of Vientiane, bypassing the traditional bus transfer at the Friendship Bridge.

Air and land connectivity

New Terminal Upgrades: Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport has seen increased frequencies from regional low-cost carriers like AirAsia and Thai Wings, particularly on routes from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Lao Airlines Expansion: The national carrier has added new direct routes to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to support the “Two Countries, One Destination” initiative with Cambodia.

Tourist Attractions in Laos

UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites

Town of Luang Prabang

The crown jewel of Lao tourism, this peninsula at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers is celebrated for its fusion of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture. In 2026, the high-speed rail has made it more accessible than ever, but the town maintains its spiritual essence through the daily morning alms giving (Tak Bat) and its 33 gilded temples, including the stunning Wat Xieng Thong.

Vat Phou Temple Complex

Located in Champasak, this pre-Angkorian Hindu temple complex dates back to the 5th century. It is part of a planned landscape that expresses the Hindu vision of the relationship between nature and humanity. Visitors in 2026 often pair this with the “4,000 Islands” (Si Phan Don) region further south.

Megalithic Jar Sites (Plain of Jars)

Situated on the Xiangkhoang Plateau, these mysterious archaeological sites feature over 2,100 giant stone jars from the Iron Age. The UNESCO designation covers 15 components, with Site 1, 2, and 3 being the most popular for tourists due to their impressive scale and historical enigma.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

Traditional Khaen Music of Laos

The Khaen is a bamboo mouth organ that is synonymous with Lao identity. In 2026, cultural tourism packages often include “Khaen Workshops” where travelers learn the history of this instrument, which is central to village festivals, folk songs (Lam), and communal storytelling.

Traditional Craft of Naga Motif Weaving

Inscribed in late 2023, this craft celebrates the intricate hand-woven textiles featuring the Naga (mythical water serpent). These motifs are believed to offer protection and strength. Visitors can visit weaving cooperatives in Ban Phanom or Sam Neua to see artisans using natural dyes and traditional looms.

Natural Heritage: Hin Nam No National Park

As of 2026, Hin Nam No National Park is effectively managed as Laos’ first UNESCO World Natural Heritage site (following its joint nomination as a transboundary site with Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang). It is famous for its vast karst landscapes, the 7km-long Xe Bang Fai River Cave, and its role as a sanctuary for rare primates like the Red-shanked Douc Langur.

15 Ethnic Groups & Cultural Diversity

While Laos officially recognizes 50 ethnic groups, the “15 priority groups” are often highlighted in 2026 tourism circuits to showcase the country’s four main ethno-linguistic families:

Lao-Tai: Including the lowland Lao and Tai Dam, known for wet-rice cultivation and silk weaving.

Mon-Khmer: Groups like the Khmu and Makong, often located in mid-level uplands with rich oral traditions.

Hmong-Mien: Known for high-altitude living, silver jewelry, and the vibrant Hmong New Year.

Sino-Tibetan: Including the Akha, famous for their elaborate headdresses and spirit gates in the northern provinces.

Tourism Trends in Laos

In 2026, the Lao government has positioned tourism as a top-tier driver of its National Socio-Economic Development Plan, transitioning from the momentum of “Visit Laos Year 2024” toward the high-stakes Visit Laos-China Year 2027.

Strategic Pillar: Sustainable & Resource-Based Tourism

Laos is shifting its focus to high-value, low-impact tourism that leverages its three primary assets: 

Cultural & Traditional Conservation: A national mandate to promote and conserve the arts, music, and fine traditions of the Lao people. This includes state-supported festivals and the integration of the Naga Motif weaving and Khaen music into the premium visitor experience.

Historical Protection: Strict regulations are in place to conserve and protect ancient archaeological sites (like the Plain of Jars) and historic monuments (such as That Luang) from urban encroachment.

Environmental Stewardship: With the potential UNESCO natural heritage listing of Hin Nam No, the government is prioritizing the protection of the natural environment, positioning Laos as the “Green Heart of Southeast Asia.” 

Major Promotional Campaigns in Laos

Visit Laos Year 2024 (Legacy): This successful campaign laid the groundwork by upgrading regional airports and streamlining the Lao e-Arrival system.

Visit Laos-China Year 2027: This upcoming flagship initiative aims to attract both Chinese and International visitors by marketing Laos as a seamless extension of the Southern China travel circuit via the high-speed rail. 

Infrastructure & Standard Enhancement

The government is executing a massive “facelift” of the tourism supply chain: 

Connectivity & Logistics: Extensive road repairs are targeting the “Last Mile” connectivity between train stations and remote eco-lodges. There is an aggressive push to promote tourism along the Laos-China Railway, turning every station into a mini-destination.

Service Standards: The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism is enforcing new tourism standards to improve amenities and service quality in hotels and restaurants, moving away from “budget-only” offerings to capture the mid-to-high-end market. 

2026–2030 Tourism Development Plan 

This five-year roadmap focuses on five critical areas: 

Infrastructure & Facilities: Completion of the Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang expressway segments and station-side logistics.

Modern Management: Digitalizing tourism statistics and site management to prevent over-tourism at sensitive UNESCO sites.

Promotion & Marketing: A data-driven approach involving market research, the “Simply Beautiful” branding refresh, and a digital marketing toolkit for local SMEs to reach global audiences.

Human Resource Development: Establishing vocational training centers to upskill guides, hospitality staff, and digital marketers.Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Enhancing collaboration between the government and private investors to develop sustainable luxury resorts and “Glamping” sites.