Dewi Nurjuwita

Bangkok already makes shopping irresistibly easy. Now, Siam Piwat and Huawei are making it smarter too, with the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card launching on Huawei Wearables. Instead of juggling apps, cards and QR codes while navigating the city’s mega malls, travellers can access selected perks and rewards straight from their wrist. Here’s your shortcut to Bangkok’s retail playground.

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

Step into the glittering world of Moulin Rouge! The Musical in Singapore Champagne, sequins, heartbreak, and a whole lot of spectacle – Moulin Rouge! The Musical is set to make its Southeast Asia premiere at Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands in February 2027. Based on Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film, the hit stage production transports audiences to Belle Époque Paris, where young poet Christian falls for Satine, the dazzling star of the Moulin Rouge, in a love story fuelled by truth, beauty, freedom and above all, love. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, this global phenomenon has already dazzled more than 12 million people worldwide. Expect a high-camp whirlwind of opulent costumes, bold choreography and pop anthems from across the decades, remixed into one wildly theatrical mash-up. Expect a big, glitter-soaked night out that will keep the musical spirit alive long after the curtain falls – voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir?  To celebrate its arrival in Singapore, fans can join the waitlist for a chance to unlock exclusive rewards, including two pairs of coveted Gala Night tickets. During the Priority Sale and Super Early Bird period, one lucky ticket-buyer will also stand a chance to win a pair of return air tickets to Paris. Join the waitlist here.

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.

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.

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.

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!

UNESCO has added 14 new biosphere reserves to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves for 2026 – and four of them are in Asia. Announced to mark World Environment Day on June 5, the new additions bring the global network to 797 sites across 145 countries. Unlike UNESCO Global Geoparks, which focus heavily on geological heritage, biosphere reserves are recognised for their ecological value and the way people and nature coexist within them. For travellers, these are not always straightforward sightseeing spots. Some are remote, fragile landscapes; others are working communities, national parks or entire municipalities. But they are places where conservation, biodiversity and sustainable travel come together. And that's what makes Asia’s new entries especially worth knowing. Tost Toson Bumbiin Nuruu, Mongolia Set in Mongolia’s South Gobi, Tost Toson Bumbiin Nuruu is a rugged mountain-desert landscape of ranges, dry riverbeds and oases, and an important habitat for snow leopards, ibex and gazelles. It’s best suited to serious nature travellers, with extreme temperatures ranging from scorching summers to freezing winters. Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan, Philippines In the Philippines, Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan spans mountain forests to marine ecosystems in Occidental Mindoro, including Apo Reef Natural Park and habitats for the endangered tamaraw. It positions Sablayan as a key nature destination beyond its beaches. Nino Konis Santana, Timor-Leste Nino Konis Santana, Timor-Leste’

Planning a trip to Japan this year? There’s a new visa fee update to know about – though for many travellers, it may not change anything at all. From July 1, 2026, Japan is raising its visa fees for the first time in decades. The fee for a single-entry visa will rise to around ¥15,000, while a multiple-entry visa will cost around ¥30,000. The change applies to visa applications accepted at Japanese overseas diplomatic missions on or after that date. But before you panic-cancel that itinerary, here’s the important bit: this only affects travellers who actually need to apply for a visa. Do all tourists need to pay Japan’s new visa fee? No. Many travellers visiting Japan for short-term tourism are visa-exempt, meaning they do not need to apply for a tourist visa. Japan currently has short-term visa-exemption arrangements with 74 countries and regions, including Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and many countries in Europe. Do Singaporeans need a visa for Japan? No. Singapore citizens can generally enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days as temporary visitors, so the visa fee hike should not affect most Singaporean holidaymakers. What about Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong? Travellers from Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong are also generally covered by Japan’s visa exemption arrangements, but there are passport-specific conditions. For Malaysian and Thai nationals, Japan’s visa exemption applies only to holder

タイの空港での入国審査の待ち時間が、近く大幅に短縮されるかもしれない。同国の入国管理局は、外国人旅行者が入国前に到着情報を提出できる新しいモバイルアプリ「THIM」（Thailand Immigration Management）の本格導入に向けて準備を進めている。 アプリの目的はシンプルで、入国審査の処理を迅速化し、審査場の混雑を緩和し、到着時の手続きの煩わしさを減らすこと。現在、iOS版とAndroid版が試験的に提供されており、2026年8月までに正式にローンチされる見込みだ。  THIMアプリとは？ THIMは、タイを訪れる外国人旅行者向けの新しい入国管理アプリ。出発前に、パスポート情報、旅行計画、宿泊先の詳細など、到着に関する主要な情報をデジタル登録できる。 2025年に導入されたタイのデジタル到着カード（TDAC）システムと連携するよう設計されている。TDACは現在、ウェブベースのプラットフォームを通じて入力し提出する仕組みになっており、報道によると、すでに1000万人を超える訪問者に利用されている。 このアプリで何ができる？ 旅行者がタイに到着する前に、到着カードに記載する情報を簡単に入力ができる。AIを活用した光学式文字認識（OCR）により、スマートフォンのカメラからの情報の取り込みが可能で、アプリ全体では、顔写真ページや機械読み取り部分（MRZ）、埋め込みチップに含まれる3種類の情報すべてに対応する。 入国審査場で慌てながら情報を手入力する場面が減るのは、旅行者にとってありがたい。 同アプリはグループ登録にも対応し、最大10人分の旅行者情報をまとめて提出できるようになる。家族で旅行する場合には便利な機能だ。 リピーターにも便利？ タイを頻繁に訪れる旅行者にとっても、再訪時の手続きをより簡単にしてくれる。THIMシステムでは、登録が必要なのは初回のみ。旅行者は自分のプロフィールを保存でき、次回以降の訪問時には、便名、宿泊先、帰国日など一部の旅行情報を更新するだけでよい。これにより、入国時の手続きは1〜2分程度に短縮される。 到着時には、入国審査でパスポートを提示するのみ。審査官はデジタル登録がすでに完了していることをすぐに確認できるため、これまで必要だったデジタル到着カードのQRコードを別途照合する手間もなくなる。 旅行者は引き続きビザが必要？ 国籍や渡航目的によってビザが必要な旅行者は、引き続きビザを取得しなければならない。THIMは、ビザ申請や長期滞在に関する入国管理手続き、対象となる外国人居住者に義務付けられている90日ごとの届出などを代替するものではない。 THIMの対応言語は？ 報道によれば、試験版は英語、ロシア語、日本語、中国語に対応しており、今後は15言語への拡大が計画されている。 最終的にタイは、THIMをより広範な入国管理の「スーパーアプリ」にすることを目指している。書類申請、入国管理関連の予約、さらには24時間年中無休の観光警察ホットラインへのアクセスまでカバーするものになるという。 関連記事 『Thailand is launching a new immigration app to cut airport processing times（原文）』 『タイの人気フェス「Wonderfruit」が新展開、日本での開催も』 『バンコク「Gaggan」のシェフが手がけるホテル第1号店、大阪・生駒山地の麓で開業計画』 『バンコク、ベストレコードショップ8選』 『日本発の「shio pan」がバンコクで一大ブーム』

There are city skylines. And then there are city skylines that make you stop mid-walk to look up. A new ranking by luggage storage platform Radical Storage has named the world’s best city skylines for 2026 – and Asia more or less owns the list. The index looked at the world’s top 100 cities from the Skyscraper Centre and scored them across five factors: the number of skyscrapers over 150 metres, the average height of each city’s ten tallest buildings, night-time skyline visibility, skyline density and the number of award-winning buildings. Taking the top spot is Shenzhen, with a score of 7.1 out of 10. The Chinese city is known for its technology and manufacturing, but it also has plenty of skyscrapers – 679 over 150 metres, including 22 over 300 metres, with a top-ten average height of 418 metres. Dubai ranks second, followed by Hong Kong in third. Hong Kong’s place will surprise absolutely no one who has ever stood by Victoria Harbour and watched that wall of high-rises switch on after dark. The city has 677 skyscrapers over 150 metres and one of the densest skylines in the top 10. China dominates the ranking overall, taking six of the ten spots. Beyond Shenzhen and Hong Kong, Wuhan comes in fifth, Guangzhou sixth, Shanghai seventh and Chongqing joint ninth. There are other Asian heavyweights, too. Kuala Lumpur comes in eighth place, helped by 277 skyscrapers over 150 metres and a skyline that includes Merdeka 118 and the Petronas Twin Towers. Tokyo places joint ninth, stan

Tokyo is a city that tends to move fast. Trains arrive to the minute and pedestrian crossings flood in every direction. But a new sightseeing service is offering travellers a slower way to take in the capital – on four wheels.  Called Machi Mobi, the new guided mobility experience takes visitors around the Yaesu and Nihonbashi areas in central Tokyo using either a compact electric vehicle or a traditional rickshaw. Instead of rushing between landmarks, the idea is to move through the city at street level. It's a pretty ideal way to get to know the real Tokyo, if you ask us.  The electric option uses RODEM, a slow-moving mobility vehicle with simple controls and a compact design. The tour starts from Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, the shopping and business complex near Tokyo Station, and takes riders towards the Nihonbashi area. The electric vehicle moves at a gentle pace and has simple controls, making it an accessible way to explore the streets between Yaesu and Nihonbashi — an area lined with heritage corners, shops and city-centre architecture that is easy to miss when travelling by train or taxi. Travellers can also take the route in reverse by choosing the traditional rickshaw experience, which runs from Nihonbashi to Yaesu. This version is led by trained rickshaw pullers, who guide visitors through the streets while sharing stories about the neighbourhoods along the way. The experiences feel slightly different: RODEM offers a compact, futuristic spin on urban sightseeing, while

Wellness travel is no longer just about booking a massage and calling it self-care. According to the State of Retreats 2026 Report by BookRetreats.com, more travellers are now booking holidays that promise something beyond a tan and an overworked camera roll. The report, which surveyed 1,040 US travellers, found that nearly half of respondents – 49 percent – plan to spend on a wellness retreat this year. That puts retreats ahead of spa treatments, supplements and gym memberships. By 2027, the Global Wellness Institute forecasts wellness tourism will reach US$1.4 trillion. BookRetreats.com ranked the world’s top trending wellness destinations for 2026 based on year-on-year growth across its platform. And the destination seeing the biggest surge in interest is Sri Lanka, where demand from wellness travellers has risen by 100 percent. Why is Sri Lanka trending for wellness travel? Sri Lanka has long had a strong wellness case to make. The island is known for its doctor-led Ayurvedic traditions, with wellness holidays rooted in practices said to date back more than 2,000 years. It is also relatively affordable: according to BookRetreats.com, three- to four-day wellness retreats start at around US$372.18. The timing helps too. From May 25, 2026, Sri Lanka waived visa fees for tourists from 40 countries, saving a family of four US$200 before they even land. Beyond the price tag, Sri Lanka also offers year-round beach potential thanks to its two monsoon seasons, meaning one coast is

Choosing where to travel is usually about food, beaches, hotels, flight prices, and your annual leave balance. But safety and stability matter too – especially in a year when the world, according to the latest Global Peace Index 2026, has become less peaceful for the 12th year in a row. The annual report by the Institute for Economics & Peace ranks 163 independent states and territories according to their level of peacefulness, using 23 indicators across three domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarisation. It’s not a holiday ranking, but it does offer useful context for travellers thinking about the broader stability of destinations. Which Asian countries ranked highest? Asia has several strong performers in this year’s ranking. Singapore is the highest-ranked Asian destination, placing 8th globally, followed by Japan at 10th and Malaysia at 12th. Bhutan also ranks highly at 16th globally, while Mongolia comes in at 34th. Further down the list, Vietnam ranks 41st, Taiwan 42nd, South Korea 57th, Laos 58th, Sri Lanka 67th and Indonesia 69th. If using the report’s broader Asia-Pacific grouping, New Zealand remains the region’s most peaceful country and ranks 2nd globally, just behind Iceland. How did Asia-Pacific perform overall? The Asia-Pacific region remains the second most peaceful region in the world, behind Western and Central Europe. Still, it was not all good news. The region’s average score deteriorated by 0.9 per

Thailand’s airport queues may soon get a lot shorter. The country’s Immigration Bureau is preparing to launch a new mobile app called THIM, short for Thailand Immigration Management, designed to help foreign visitors submit their arrival details before entering the country. The app is currently available in a trial phase on both iOS and Android, with a full official launch expected by August 2026. The goal is simple: speed up immigration processing, reduce congestion at checkpoints and make arrival admin less troublesome.  What is the THIM app? THIM is a new mobile immigration app for foreign nationals travelling to Thailand. It allows visitors to register key arrival details digitally before departure, including passport information, travel plans and accommodation details. The app is designed to work with Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system, which was introduced in 2025 and is currently completed through a web-based platform. According to reports, the existing TDAC system has already been used by more than 10 million visitors. What does the app do? THIM allows travellers to fill in their arrival card details before landing in Thailand. It can also scan passport information using a phone camera with AI-powered optical character recognition. The technology can read all three data layers: the machine-readable zone, the biographical page, and the embedded chip. This means less manual typing - especially when you're panic-filling your details at immigration.  The app wi

日本のホテルシーンは、これ以上ないほど魅力的に見えているが、こんなニュースが飛び込んできた。 革新的な料理で知られるガガン・アナンド（Gaggan Anand）と、著名ホテルデザイナーのビル・ベンスリー（Bill Bensley）が、大阪にある200年の歴史を持つ酒蔵で、新たなホテルを手がけるというのだ。 その「Gaggan Hotel at Daimon Sake Brewery」がオープンを予定しているのは、生駒山地の麓にある、大門酒造の敷地内。大阪府交野市で1826年に創業し、現在も酒造りを行う酒蔵で、大阪、京都、奈良の中間に位置する。 このホテルは、客室はわずか15室のスイートとなる見込みで、各室の広さは約70平方メートル。一度に宿泊できるゲストは最大でも30人に限られる。 一般的なホテルのように、宿泊を中心にした滞在スタイルではなく、同ホテルでは、細部まで組み立てられたオールインクルーシブ型の滞在が想定されており、食事や旅程は事前に手配される形を取るという。 予定をある程度決めておけば、その分、現地では慌てることなく、酒を楽しみ、湯に浸かり、何もしない時間もゆったりと確保できるというわけだ。 もちろん、食事はこのホテルの大きな魅力の一つとなる。アナンドは、バンコクで最も影響力のあるシェフの一人であり続けており、ファインダイニングを、より遊び心にあふれ、劇場的で、既存のルールを打ち破るものへと変えてきたことで知られる。 バンコクにある彼のレストラン「Gaggan」は、最近発表された「Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026」でも上位にランクインし、アジアのフードシーンで引き続き大きな注目を集めている。 ベンスリーは、カンボジアの「Shinta Mani Wild」、ラオスの「Rosewood Luang Prabang」、バリの「Capella Ubud」など、アジアで特に記憶に残るホテルの数々を手がけてきたデザイナーだ。 新しいホテルにも、控えめなベージュ基調のミニマリズムではなく、ストーリーテリング、マキシマリズム、そして劇場的なディテールがふんだんに盛り込まれることを期待したい。 「Gaggan Hotel at Daimon Sake Brewery」には、3つのダイニングスペース、庭園、温泉、スパ、蒸留所が設けられ、ウェルネスプログラムや酒のテイスティング、アート＆クラフトのワークショップも楽しめる予定だという。 ホテルの建設開始は2027年、完成は2028年から2029年の見込みだ。 関連記事 『Gaggan Anand and Bill Bensley are opening a hotel in a 200-year-old sake brewery in Japan（原文）』 『東京から7店がランクイン、「アジアのベストレストラン50」2026年版が発表』 『タイムアウトマーケット大阪に新店ラッシュ、大阪発の7つの魅力が加わる』 『関西、2026年にオープンする注目の新施設7選』 『大阪、日常をエスケープするスポット8選』 『天王寺でしかできない10のこと』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら  

Just when Japan’s hotel scene seemed impossible to make any more tempting, along comes this: Gaggan Anand and Bill Bensley are teaming up on a new hotel inside a 200-year-old sake brewery in Osaka Prefecture. Set within the grounds of Daimon Brewery, a working sake brewery founded in 1826, the upcoming Gaggan Hotel at Daimon Sake Brewery will be located at the foot of the Ikoma Mountain Range. It'll be nestled in between Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara.  The project is expected to feature just 15 suites, each measuring around 70 square metres, with no more than 30 guests staying at a time. Instead of the usual check-in-and-wing-it approach, the hotel is being planned as an all-inclusive, highly curated stay, with meals and itineraries arranged in advance. Guests will reportedly be able to choose from dining options and plan parts of their stay before arriving, leaving more time for sake, soaking and doing absolutely nothing. Food is, naturally, a major part of the draw. Gaggan Anand remains one of Bangkok’s most influential chefs, known for turning fine dining into something far more playful, theatrical and rule-breaking. His Bangkok restaurant Gaggan also recently ranked highly on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026, keeping him firmly in the region’s culinary spotlight. Then there is Bill Bensley, the designer behind some of Asia’s most memorable hotels, including Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia, Rosewood Luang Prabang in Laos and Capella Ubud in Bali. Expect storytelling, maximalism and p

Niseko is already one of Asia’s most famous ski destinations, thanks to its deep powder, long winter season, and very real ability to make people suddenly care about snow reports. Now, getting around one of its key resorts is set to become much smoother. Starting in December 2026, Niseko Village in Hokkaido will roll out a new gondola system as part of a major lift upgrade. The new mori-no gondolas will replace the old mori-no chairlift, which has been carrying skiers since the early 1980s. What is changing at Niseko Village? Niseko Village is introducing new eight-seater gondolas designed to move more people up the mountain in greater comfort. The upgrade will double the current transport capacity, helping to reduce queues and make the uphill journey warmer, faster, and less exposed to the elements. That last bit matters. Anyone who has sat on an open chairlift in Hokkaido weather will know that “scenic” can very quickly become too cold for comfort.  How will the new gondola system work? The new mori-no gondola system will be split into two sections, with an intermediate station between the base and the upper mountain. This gives skiers and snowboarders more flexibility, as they can choose to get off midway or continue higher depending on the snow, weather and their own ability level. The first section, running from the base to the intermediate station, is expected to open in December 2026. The second section, which will connect passengers onwards towards the summit, is sche

Airports are not always the most glamorous part of a trip. But the Prix Versailles 2026 airport laureates are a reminder that some airports are becoming architectural destinations in their own right. This year, four of the seven airport projects recognised by Prix Versailles are in Asia, with terminals in China, India and Cambodia making the global selection. The annual architecture and design awards, associated with UNESCO, spotlight standout projects across categories including airports, hotels, museums and restaurants. The strong showing continues a trend from last year, when Asia also featured prominently among the airport laureates with Yantai Penglai International Airport Terminal 2 in Yantai, China, and Kansai International Airport Terminal 1 in Osaka, Japan, both earning recognition for their design excellence. Leading the 2026 Asian entries is Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s Terminal 3 in China, which opened on October 30, 2025 as part of the airport’s major “five-runway, three-terminal” expansion. Designed around Guangzhou’s identity as China’s “Flower City”, the terminal includes a main building and three concourses, with domestic and international operations supported by 199 check-in counters, 60 self-service kiosks and 87 jet bridges. India has two projects on the list. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport’s Terminal 2 in Guwahati was designed as a contemporary nod to Assam and Northeast India, drawing from bamboo craft and the kopou phool o