Dewi Nurjuwita

Singapore's most popular attractions may include a boat-like tower with an infinity pool and two durian-looking domes and other impressive manmade structures but you'll be surprised by the amount of greenery you can find within the city-state (and surrounding offshore islands). The best way to discover this? Hiking.  Put on your best trekking shoes and go on foot to explore these hidden (and not so hidden) trails around the island. But before you get on the best hiking trails in Singapore, it might be best to slap on some sunscreen – and it wouldn't hurt to bring along some mosquito repellent. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's offshore islands and the best secret and hidden parks in Singapore

The global festival circuit might revolve around names like Coachella, Glastonbury and Tomorrowland. But Asia’s festival scene is catching up fast, with music lovers travelling across the region for everything from sunrise beach raves and underground electronic gatherings to massive rock and pop spectacles. The momentum is only growing. Tomorrowland is landing in Asia for the first time this December in Thailand, with tickets reportedly selling out in under an hour. Some of the festivals on this list are long-running heavyweights with near-mythical status, while others are newer additions quickly earning their place on the circuit. If you’re the type who plans trips around lineups and dancefloors, here are our picks of the best festivals in Asia to put on your 2026 calendar. RECOMMENDED: All you need to know about Wonderfruit 2026: dates, ticketing, and new Kyoto edition and These are the best cities in Asia in 2026, according to Time Out

There’s nothing like taking a pause from the daily grind to spend some time with the family. Especially if you've been working from home, both you and the kids may need a change in environment. From farm visits to skydiving, Singapore has a myriad of things you can do with your toddlers, tykes and teens. And why not complete it with a stay at some of the city’s best fam-friendly hotels and resorts? We pick up some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Singapore. With interconnecting rooms, themed lodgings, cool toys and fun activities for the little ones, it'll make for great bonding time for the whole family.  RECOMMENDED: The best kid-friendly activities in Singapore and the best free activities for kids

When you’re in need of some rest and rejuvenation, a vacation in Bali is always a good idea. But with plenty, and we mean plenty, of accommodation options on the tropical island, where to stay can be a tough decision to make.  These resorts offer the perfect combination of luxury, seclusion, and an authentic island experience. From cliffside sanctuaries with sweeping ocean views to hidden retreats in lesser-known regions like Amed and Northwest Bali, we’ve curated a list of the best ones to consider.  Whether you're after private villas perched high in the mountains, wellness-focused getaways near pristine beaches, or stylish retreats designed for a digital detox, there’s something for every type of traveller. Get ready to discover the ultimate spots for a tropical hideaway on the Island of the Gods. READ MORE: The essential guide to Bali for first-time visitors and The best things to do in Bali

Whether you’re a visitor planning your very first visit to Singapore, or a Singaporean mapping out a special occasion in the city, choosing a hotel in Singapore is an important (and sometimes overwhelming) task. With so many spectacular stays to choose between – from the world-famous Raffles to new boutique stays like 21 Carpenter – it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. To help you determine which hotel to book for your next visit or staycation, our team of local editors (including Time Out Singapore Editor Cheryl Sekkappan, Regional Content Director for Time Out APAC Nicole-Marie Ng and local writer Dewi Nurjuwita) have tried and tested the city’s top-ranking hotels to determine which are worth your time.The list has been overseen by Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC and self-confessed hotel obsessive. Each hotel has been chosen based on amenities, design and proximity to the city’s highlights – with many hotels on the list within walking distance of the best restaurants and bars in Singapore.Read on for our guide to the very best hotels in Singapore right now. Our Hotel Editor's picks for the best hotels in Singapore: Best boutique stay: QT SingaporeBest hotel for families: Mandarin Oriental SingaporeBest luxury hotel: Raffles Hotel SingaporeBest beachside stay: Capella Singapore RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore At Time Out, all of

Lunar New Year is one of Asia’s most important moments on the cultural calendar–and one of the most rewarding times to travel if you know where to go. You’ll find streets transform into lantern-lit spectacles and traditions coming alive across various cities.  Before you start mapping out parades, lantern releases and temple visits, here’s what to know about Lunar New Year 2026 and how its celebrations shift across the region. RECOMMENDED: Uzumasa Kyoto Village park in Japan and This magical mountain town is the top trending travel destination in Asia for 2026

If you're in a relationship, the big V-Day (February 14) is reserved for spending quality time with your partner, from cosy cuddles at night to waking up to a stunning sunrise. Instead of staying at your usual pad, take a break from your everyday routine and spend the night at a home away from home. We’ve rounded up a list of the most romantic hotels in Singapore, so you can pamper your significant other with a much-needed staycation this Valentine’s Day.   RECOMMENDED:Want more choice? These are all of the best hotels in Singapore These are the best free date ideas in SingaporeThese are the most romantic restaurants in Singapore

When you think “romantic island getaway”, it’s easy to picture overwater villas and rose petals on the bed. And look, we’re not mad about that. But romance doesn’t have to always come with a butler and a plunge pool. For some couples, it’s found in shared effort, curiosity, and the kind of experiences that feel better because you did them together. That might mean sweating through a jungle hike, waking up early for a dive briefing, cycling between art installations, or wandering into a forest where you might not even get a phone signal. These trips still come with beaches and beautiful stays–but you have more to look forward to beyond that.  If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day escape or a post-February getaway, we’ve rounded up a list of underrated islands in Asia worth bookmarking. Each one offers a different kind of romance, depending on the type of couple you are. RECOMMENDED: Best places in Asia to travel to in 2026 and Most beautiful islands and coastlines in Asia

There's no way to travel all of Asia in one lifetime, but you can damn well bet that we're going to try. From bustling city destinations to wild island paradises, there's so much on the regional travel menu that we'd gladly spend our annual leave on in 2026 – and if you're having a hard time choosing, then you're in the right place. We talked to our Time Out editors and travel contributors in Asia to suss out what's on their radar for the coming year. These destinations are emerging hotspots: long overlooked or previously hard to reach, but now on the map for travellers seeking alternatives to well-trodden destinations like Bali, Tokyo, and Bangkok. Many on the list have become better-connected, too – all the more reason to buy that plane ticket in 2026. And it goes without saying: they all have spectacular natural attractions, rich culture, and fantastic dining scenes to satisfy the pickiest of travellers. Here's Time Out's list of the best places to visit in Asia in 2026.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox. READ MORE: The most spectacular places to visit in Asia and The most gorgeous islands in Asia 

There’s a new face in the deep at Singapore Oceanarium – and he’s got fins. Hangyodon, Sanrio’s lovable half-fishman, is making a special year-end splash with his first immersive experience in Southeast Asia. From November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026, Singapore Oceanarium transforms into a mini trail of photo spots, interactive installations and meet-and-greets as Hangyodon marks his 40th anniversary in true aquatic style. Expect a mix of character fun and ocean highlights as you walk through the oceanarium’s different zones.

A beach vacation isn’t truly complete without a blissful massage, and the Island of the Gods is renowned for offering just that. Balinese massage, with its full-body, deep-tissue techniques rooted in traditional healing, is a must-try for any visitor to the island.  Whether you're after rejuvenating body treatments, cutting-edge wellness therapies, or a classic Balinese massage, the island's spa scene delivers a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. From Seminyak’s Insta-famous spots to hidden sanctuaries perched above Jimbaran Bay, these are the spas where you’ll find the ultimate escape for a radiant, post-vacation glow. READ MORE: Best luxury hotels in Bali and Best cafés in Bali to sip, snack, and soak up the island vibes

It’s always nice being a tourist in your own city, and treating yourself to a staycation is the best way to get away from the daily grind. Luckily, Singapore is filled with plenty of fantastic hotels to choose from, so it's easy to have that much-needed quick getaway without jetting abroad. From chic boutique hotels, to luxurious heritage accommodations, as well as swanky loft-style spaces, these comfy hotels in Singapore will give you the best night's sleep. Plus, with stellar facilities and amenities like infinity pools, bars, and sleek lounges, you're bound to stay entertained throughout. RECOMMENDED: Best rooftop bars in Singapore and 101 things to do in Singapore

Singapore’s best bars are shaking things up for the World Class Cocktail Festival. The citywide celebration is back, and it brings together 21 of the island’s most respected cocktail destinations for a limited-time bar-hopping experience.  Expect a cross-section of Singapore’s cocktail scene, from stalwarts like Manhattan and Gibson to free-spirited spots such as Sago House and Night Hawk, before the night lifts skyward at HighHouse and hotel bars including METT Singapore. One thing’s for sure, they’re all pouring exclusive World Class creations for the festival. Photograph: Side Door One standout stop is Side Door, helmed by husband-and-wife bartending champions with serious World Class pedigree. Over at HighHouse, cocktails come with a cool twist: elevated pours served 282 metres above ground, offering one of the city’s highest drinking experiences alongside sweeping skyline views. Photograph: @gluggony/Instagram The festival also turns bar-hopping into a game with its stamp-and-win mechanic. Collect stamps as you explore participating bars and unlock rewards at different milestones, with prizes ranging from dining vouchers to bottles of your favourite spirits: such as Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Don Julio 1942, or Zacapa XO. Pick up stamps as you sip your way through participating bars, and watch the rewards stack up as you hit each milestone. Visit five bars and you’ll unlock a selection of merchandise from World Class brands. Make it to 10 bars and you’ll score a S$50 din

Nestled near one of Ubud’s many rice fields, Kano Sari Ubud Villas is a fantastic getaway from the hustle and bustle of Ubud’s busy centre. The hotel is a five-minute drive from Ubud Royal Palace and the market, while the Sacred Monkey Forest is a further 10-minute drive away.

Bio-hacking, the practice of optimising your body’s chemistry and physiology to boost energy and vitality, is more than just a wellness trend - it’s a movement. And there’s no better place to experience it than Karma Spa, a state-of-the-art bio-hacking space set against the backdrop of Bali’s breathtaking southern coast. With an infrared sauna, ice bath, ocean shower, and warm soaking pool, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the most spectacular environments in the world to explore this cutting-edge therapy.

Tamiang Spa offers exceptional value without compromising on quality, making it one of the most affordable yet enriching spa experiences in Bali. With 60-minute massages starting at just Rp 100,000, this unassuming day spa embodies the essence of Ubud. Its treatment rooms, nestled among lush greenery with the soothing scent of incense wafting through the air, create a tranquil escape. The extensive menu features everything from massages and reflexology to healing treatments and facials, all performed with time-honoured techniques and enhanced by Sensatia Botanicals products.

If you're chasing that perfect beach vacation glow, Glo Spa has you sorted. With five locations across Bali - Sanur, Canggu, Echo Beach, Nusa Lembongan, and Seminyak - this trendy spa is a go-to for travellers looking for a mix of indulgence and essential grooming. Along with its signature massages and body treatments, Glo Spa offers an extensive range of beauty services, from manicures and pedicures to waxing, lash and brow tints, lash perms, and spray tans. It’s a true one-stop shop for all your vacation beauty needs. And yes, it's also where you can get that dreamy, sun-kissed balayage for mermaid hair.

Beauty is skin deep, and it rings ever so true at The Sacred River Spa. Located in Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan along the serene banks of the Ayung River, this holistic spa taps into the mystical energy of the river to provide a deeply restorative Balinese experience. Treatments here go beyond the surface, blending spiritual practices with therapeutic massage to bring you into alignment - body, mind, and soul. The goal is simple: to foster harmony within by tuning into the sacred rhythms of nature.

Bodyworks Spa is a Bali icon, and if it hasn’t popped up on your Instagram feed yet, it’s only a matter of time. With its blush-pink walls and Moroccan-inspired arches, this stunning space feels like a slice of Marrakesh in Seminyak. It's no wonder the spa doubles as a popular spot for photoshoots and creative projects. But beyond the picture-perfect setting, Bodyworks is known for its range of indulgent treatments, from rejuvenating massages and facials to more modern therapies like an infrared sauna and ice bath experience.

Picture this: you’re enjoying a relaxing massage with the soothing sound of waves in the background at an Ocean View spa. That’s exactly what you can expect at Senses Spa by La Joya Biu Biu, perched on a cliff's edge in Jimbaran. Offering a range of facial treatments and massages, all of which feature a nourishing base oil blend of sunflower, olive, soya, and virgin coconut oil.

This boutique spa from New Zealand may be situated right in the heart of Canggu, but once you step inside, the serene vibe sweeps you away. With island beats playing softly, a fully stocked bar, and private treatment rooms tucked within a lush garden, it’s easy to see why it was named Indonesia’s Best Day Spa at the World Spa Awards. Their offerings also extend to other prime Bali locations, including Seminyak, Nusa Lembongan, and Uluwatu.

Perched on the slopes of the majestic Mount Agung, Pura Besakih, or the Mother Temple of Bali, is the island’s most revered and ancient spiritual site. This sprawling complex of over 80 temples dates back to 1007 A.D., making it one of the island’s oldest temples. Terraces and stairs ascend to spacious courtyards that lead up to the main spire, symbolising the worshippers’ climb up Mount Meru, an important mountain in Hindu cosmology. This also allows them to ascend closer to the sacred Mount Agung.  At the heart of Besakih Great Temple lies Pura Penataran Agung, Bali's primary place of worship, featuring 22 intricately designed temples. The panoramic mountain views add to the temple's mystique, making it not only a spiritual destination but also a visual spectacle that captures the essence of Bali’s sacred landscape.

Tanah Lot, which literally means "Land in the Sea," is home to one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop with waves crashing below, it’s the stuff postcard dreams are made of - especially at sunset when the temple is silhouetted against a golden sky. Built in the 16th century by Hindu priest Danghyang Niratha, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s seven sea temples, said to protect the island from evil spirits. If you’re lucky enough to visit during Odalan (takes place every 210 days), you’ll catch the temple at its liveliest, with rituals coinciding with the Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. And for the superstitious: rumour has it that Tanah Lot is the site of the infamous "Bali curse." If you're thinking of visiting with your significant other, you might want to weigh up the risks… or at least keep the romance on hold. Eat, pray, and proceed with caution!

Tucked away just north of Ubud, Pura Tirta Empul is Bali’s answer to a sacred spa day. This ancient Hindu water temple, built in 962 AD, is dedicated to Vishnu, the god of water - so you know it’s got some serious spiritual street cred. The main attraction here is a natural spring, said to be the “elixir of life,” bubbling up into crystal-clear pools, where 30 waterspouts feed two sacred purification pools. Join the locals in the melukat ritual, where a dip under the spouts is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul. And don’t miss the inner courtyard (jeroan), often overlooked by tourists. It’s a peaceful spot where people come to pray, surrounded by the temple’s large water spring, green algae, and little fish darting through the reeds. Oh, and did we mention it’s right below the Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring?

Vietnam has quietly rolled out a new entry requirement that every international visitor should know about before they fly. As of April 15, 2026, foreign nationals arriving in Vietnam must complete a digital arrival card before reaching immigration, and skipping it could mean a longer wait at the border.The system is currently confirmed for Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the country's busiest gateways. However, the official portal already includes fields for land and sea entry points, strongly suggesting a wider rollout is on the way. This follows similar requirements for travellers by other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand and Singapore.  Who needs to fill in the digital arrival card?  Almost everyone who isn't a Vietnamese citizen travelling on a Vietnamese passport. That includes visa-free visitors, e-Visa holders, and overseas Vietnamese entering on a visa. What do you need to do? Head to prearrival.immigration.gov.vn within 72 hours of your arrival – not earlier, as the system only accepts bookings within that window. You'll fill in your passport details, flight number, accommodation address, and purpose of visit. Once submitted, you'll receive a QR code via email. Save this, as you'll need to show it to immigration officers on arrival. Think of it like online check-in: quick, straightforward, and much better done from your hotel room than in the airport queue. What happens if you skip it? You won't be turned away, but authorit

Phnom Penh's old Pochentong Airport is getting a major second act. With all flights now operating from the new Techo International Airport since September 2025, the historic 386-hectare site is being reimagined as a sprawling urban park and cultural destination. And to be honest, it sounds like it could become one of the city's most compelling places to visit. The winning design, called Oasis Garden, envisions the former airport as a lush green sanctuary in the middle of the city. Think tree-lined walkways filled with Cambodian flowering trees, water gardens, jogging paths, and over 25 activities ranging from sports facilities to creative workshops. A bamboo train – relocated from Battambang – is planned as one of the more playful draws, alongside an aviation VR simulator for those who want a nod to the site's flying past. History buffs will want to head straight for the repurposed terminal buildings, which are set to become memorial exhibition centres and a museum honouring King Father Norodom Sihanouk, the visionary behind the original airport. It's a rare chance to walk through a piece of Cambodia's modern history. Beyond the attractions, the park is designed to be genuinely accessible – a free, open public space in a city where green areas have historically been limited and largely private. Local vendors will have dedicated zones, making it a likely hub for food, crafts, and neighbourhood life. For now, no opening timeline has been confirmed yet. An inter-ministerial task

The digital nomad era is growing up a bit. According to Forbes, the best cities for remote workers and creators in 2026 are no longer just those with cheap rent, decent weather, and photogenic smoothie bowls. The new focus is on places where people can earn more, grow faster and build longer-term, location-flexible businesses. And in Southeast Asia, we've got two standout names, Chiang Mai and Da Nang. Forbes frames this around the rise of the “digital entrepreneur”: people building income streams that are both online-native and portable. That means creators and nomads are increasingly choosing cities not just for lifestyle, but for productivity, networks, collaboration opportunities and the ability to stay put for longer. So why these two? In Forbes’ telling, Chiang Mai still delivers because it is efficient. The city has long been one of Asia’s original nomad strongholds, and it continues to offer a dense ecosystem of co-working spaces, cafés and long-stay accommodation that makes routine-building feel easy. That lines up nicely with our own love for the city: Chiang Mai also made it onto Time Out’s list of the best cities in Asia in 2026. Then there’s Da Nang, which Forbes describes as a fast-growing coastal hub where reliable internet, a growing co-working scene, strong café culture and relatively low barriers to entry are drawing in remote workers before the city hits full saturation. We are not exactly shocked. Central Vietnam was also one of Time Out’s best places to v

Cambodia is planning Asia’s first large-scale underwater museum. And no, it’s not just some gimmicky excuse to plonk sculptures in the sea. Called the S.E.A. Ocean Gallery, the project is set to take shape off the coast of Kep, where specially designed artworks will sit underwater and gradually become habitats for coral, seagrass and marine life. If you know Kep as Cambodia’s low-key seaside escape of crab markets, sleepy coastal roads and faded villas, this gives the town a rather unexpected new dimension. The gallery will be located around 8.5 kilometres offshore within a protected Marine Fisheries Management Area, and the idea is for it to behave less like a conventional sculpture park and more like a living museum. In other words, the works will not stay the same for long. Over time, the sea will take over, with coral and marine species slowly colonising the structures over time. Each installation will be 3D-printed using mineral and geopolymer materials designed to mimic the complexity of natural reefs. That is really the most interesting part of the whole thing: these pieces are meant to function as both artworks and marine habitats. Rather than dropping decorative objects onto the seabed, the team behind the project says each structure is being designed to support biodiversity, from coral attachment to fish shelter, while avoiding existing coral zones. The Ocean Gallery is being developed by Knai Bang Chatt by Kep West, alongside Art for Kep and Marine Conservation Cam

Your Japan trip might just get costlier. From April 1, 2026, a fresh wave of prefecture- and city-level lodging taxes kicked in across the country, as local governments look for ways to fund tourism infrastructure and deal with the less glamorous side of record visitor numbers: overcrowding, strained services and residents who are, understandably, a bit over it. It is not one shiny new nationwide fee, but a growing patchwork of local charges that travellers now need to factor into the budget. What is Japan’s new lodging tax? Japan’s “new lodging tax” is really a broader expansion of local accommodation levies charged on overnight stays. Recently, 20 local governments introduced or expanded these taxes, more than doubling the number of jurisdictions already using them. The idea is to raise money for things like tourism facilities, visitor services and measures to manage overtourism. It’s a pressure point that has been increasingly hard to ignore, as seen in places like Fujiyoshida, which recently cancelled its famous cherry blossom festival over crowd-control concerns. When does it take effect? For the latest batch of regions, the tax took effect on April 1, 2026. That means stays from that date onwards may attract an extra charge, even if you booked well before then. Which prefectures are affected? Here are some of the regions that introduced or expanded lodging taxes from April 1, 2026: Hokkaido: A new prefecture-wide lodging tax now applies, ranging from ¥100 to ¥500 per p

Bali’s cultural calendar is having a strong summer. After the buzz around Day Zero Bali, the island is now adding FOTO Bali Festival 2026 to the mix. The photography festival is returning to Nuanu Creative City from June 3 to July 12, bringing together 36 artists from 24 countries for its second edition. This year’s theme is Afterimage, exploring memory, continuity, and the ways images continue to shape meaning long after the moment they capture has passed. The final line-up was selected from nearly 700 submissions across more than 80 countries, with the chosen artists representing a genuinely global mix spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas and Oceania. According to the festival, the final selection accounts for just over 5 percent of total submissions. The festival also feels like another sign that Nuanu Creative City is serious about positioning itself as more than just a glossy lifestyle complex on Bali’s southwest coast. Founded by Nuanu, FOTO Bali is pitched as an international photography-led cultural festival, and its programming is set to include exhibitions, talks, and workshops rather than static wall displays. Alongside international names, the 2026 edition will also feature eight Indonesian artists, bringing local perspectives into the wider conversation. If you’re thinking of making a trip of it, this is where we shamelessly remind you that Oshom Bali – the boutique hotel we previously checked into and genuinely enjoyed – is located right within Nuanu Crea

Thailand may soon be adding one more item to your pre-trip admin list: a THB300 tourist entry fee. The long-discussed levy is back on the table under the country’s incoming “Anutin 2” administration, with officials confirming that the proposal will be presented at the government’s first Cabinet meeting. If approved, foreign visitors arriving by air would be charged THB300, or roughly USD9. This fee has been floating around for years. Earlier versions of the plan also included a THB150 fee for travellers entering by land and sea, but for now, that part appears to have been shelved. Officials have reportedly decided not to proceed with those charges at this stage, partly to avoid burdening cross-border commuters and day-trippers. The fee is also getting a bit of a branding rethink. In Thai, it has sometimes been referred to rather bluntly as ka-yiab-phaen-din, which translates to something along the lines of a “fee for stepping on the land.” However, ministers have suggested giving it a friendlier name to improve public perception. Separately, Thailand is also revisiting its visa-free entry rules. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to propose reducing the current 60-day visa-free stay for eligible foreign tourists to 30 days, with the option to extend for another 30 days. The stated reason is to curb abuse of the system and address security concerns. That means this is not a done-and-dusted policy yet, but it is one more sign that Thailand is tightening its entry framework w

If you’ve been meaning to visit Da Nang, the stretch from late May to mid-July might just be the best time to do it. The city’s biggest summer spectacle, the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2026, returns for its largest and longest season yet. The festival will see the iconic Han River transformed into a stage for weeks of pyrotechnic displays, street performances, and plenty of riverfront activities.  What’s the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival? First launched in 2008, the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival – or DIFF – has grown into one of the coastal city’s biggest tourism draws. This year’s edition carries the theme “Da Nang – United Horizons” and brings together 10 teams from nine countries, including two Vietnamese teams: Da Nang and Z21 Vina Pyrotech. Over six competition nights, the teams will light up the sky above the Han River with elaborate displays set to music, turning central Da Nang into a full-on festival zone. When is the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival? DIFF 2026 runs from May 30 to July 11, 2026, with shows taking place from around 8pm at the Han River Port area in Da Nang. The competition schedule is spread across five qualifying nights and one grand finale: May 30 (Vietnam Da Nang vs China), June 6 (France vs Vietnam Z21 Vina Pyrotech), June 13 (Japan vs Italy), June 20 (Germany vs Macau), June 27 (Australia vs Portugal), and the final on July 11. What to do at Da Nang International Fireworks Festival? The fireworks are th

Central Vietnam has been having a moment lately, landing on lists such as our best places to visit in Asia. It's now getting more connected than ever, especially with Vietjet's new direct route between Da Nang and Jakarta. The new service launches on April 29, 2026, and marks the first direct flight from Da Nang to Jakarta. It'll operate five times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. This is huge news for travellers based in Central Vietnam, as they no longer have to endure awkward stopovers just to reach the Indonesian capital. Flights will depart Da Nang at 1.45pm and land in Jakarta at 5.20pm local time, while the return leg leaves Jakarta at 6.20pm and arrives back in Da Nang at 10.05pm the same day. It's a pretty painless new option for anyone plotting a quick city break, a business trip, or a longer Indonesia itinerary starting in Jakarta. The launch also adds to Vietjet’s expanding regional network, coming after the announcement of flights from Singapore to Nha Trang starting in June. And in case you missed the news, AirlineRatings recently named Vietjet the World’s Best Ultra Low-Cost Carrier for 2026, while also placing it among the world’s top low-cost airlines this year in its World's Best Airlines of 2026 ranking.  Of course, this being Vietjet, you can also expect onboard perks, including hot meals, Vietnamese staples like pho, banh mi and Vietnamese iced milk coffee, plus rewards through its SkyJoy loyalty programme. Marketing copy asi

Pizza might have its roots in Naples, but Asia has quietly become one of the most exciting places in the world to eat a slice. From tiny eight-seat counters in Tokyo to Neapolitan-style pizzerias in Bangkok and Manila, the region’s pizza scene is now drawing serious global attention. That momentum was on full display this week, when 50 Top Pizza – widely considered the world’s most influential pizza guide – unveiled its 2026 ranking of the 50 Best Pizzerias in the Asia-Pacific region. The announcement took place at the Istituto Italiano di Cultura in Tokyo, bringing together some of the region’s top pizzaiolos and industry insiders. Photograph: RistoPizza by Napoli Sta Ca’ Taking the top spot this year is RistoPizza by Napoli Sta Ca’ in Tokyo, led by chef Giuseppe “Peppe” Errichiello. Located in the Azabudai Hills complex, the pizzeria blends traditional Neapolitan techniques with playful, contemporary toppings. The restaurant opened in 2023 and has quickly climbed the rankings, after debuting high on the list in previous years. Second place goes to another Tokyo institution: The Pizza Bar on 38th, an ultra-intimate counter inside the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo led by chef Daniele Cason. With space for just eight diners, it’s often described as the world’s smallest pizzeria. Third place is shared between Fiata in Hong Kong, run by chef Salvatore Fiata, and gigi’s in Sydney, led by Daniel Semrani. The list also highlights just how diverse Asia’s pizza landscape has become. Rest

AirlineRatings has just released its World’s Best Airlines for 2026, and Asia has every reason to feel smug at cruising altitude. In the full-service category, five Asian airlines made the global top 10: Cathay Pacific ranked second, Singapore Airlines third, Korean Air fourth, Taipei-based STARLUX Airlines fifth, and Japan Airlines sixth. Only Qatar Airways managed to edge the region out of the top spot. That makes this year’s list a strong one for Asia, not just in numbers, but in momentum. Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines both climbed from last year’s positions, while STARLUX is one of the standout movers in the 2026 ranking, jumping sharply from No. 18 last year to No. 5. AirlineRatings highlighted its polished cabin service, strong catering and sleek interiors, with the Taipei carrier also preparing to expand into Europe later this year. The ranking has been published annually by AirlineRatings since 2014 and is judged on passenger-facing criteria such as comfort, choice, product consistency and value across an airline’s network, rather than public voting or paid entries. Asia also turned in a strong performance among low-cost carriers. HK Express topped the global low-cost ranking, while Jetstar placed second, AirAsia came third, and Scoot ranked fifth. Vietjet Air, meanwhile, was ranked tenth and separately named World’s Best Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier for 2026. We think it’s well-deserved, especially with the airline's continued expansion in the region with newly ann

It’s no secret that Asia is a food paradise. So when Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 drops, it's safe to say we're sat. Unveiled at a ceremony in Hong Kong, this year’s list once again shines a light on the region’s culinary heavyweights, with a few cities emerging as clear standouts.  Hong Kong led the pack in a big way, taking the top two spots. The Chairman clinched the No.1 title and was named The Best Restaurant in Asia, rising from No.2 last year to reclaim the crown it previously held in 2021. The acclaimed restaurant is known for honouring forgotten Cantonese luxury ingredients and culinary traditions from southern China. Right behind it at No.2 is Wing, chef Vicky Cheng’s contemporary Chinese fine-dining restaurant. Coming in at No.3 is Bangkok’s Gaggan, last year’s No.1 winner, which also retains the title of The Best Restaurant in Thailand for its theatrical and boundary-pushing Indian cuisine. Bangkok, unsurprisingly, had the strongest showing overall with nine restaurants on the list, including Nusara at No.5, Gaggan at Louis Vuitton at No.8, Sorn at No.12 and Potong at No.25. Safe to say the Thai capital is still one of Asia’s most exciting cities to eat through. This year’s list spans 17 cities across the region, with eight new entries and four re-entries. It also marks a first for Kasauli, Penang and Ubud, which all appear on the 1-50 ranking for the first time. Kasauli makes its debut on the main list altogether, while Penang and Ubud move up from the extende