A selection of bitesize news stories currently making the headlines in Malaysia: Hari Raya festivities welcome 5,000 additional visitors In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Tourism Malaysia delivered a warm festive welcome to both domestic and international travellers through vibrant Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations held across nine airports nationwide. The main event took place at…
A few bitesize news stories and tourism developments making the headlines in Indonesia in recent weeks: Indonesia prepares new tourism strategy amid global geopolitics Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has prepared a series of strategies to mitigate the impact of global geopolitical tensions while maintaining the positive growth trend of the country’s tourism sector. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said the measures aim to strengthen…
Country Manager Message – Vietnam Greetings from our new office in Ho Chi Minh City! April is one of the most rewarding times to experience Vietnam, offering a rare “golden window” of travel before the summer heat and tropical rains arrive. Across the country, conditions are at their most inviting—crisp, clear sunshine in the North,…
A message from Panorama Destination Thailand Greetings from Thailand! As we move into April and the start of the spring/summer season, Thailand continues to build strong momentum, with several positive developments across the tourism sector. The Songkran Festival will take place nationwide from 13–15 April, reaffirming its reputation as one of Thailand’s most iconic cultural celebrations and a major draw for international visitors. …
A Message From Panorama Destination Malaysia: Greetings from Kuala Lumpur! As we move into the second quarter of 2026, Malaysia’s tourism sector continues to show strong momentum, supported by strategic developments and growing international interest. Sarawak remains a key highlight, with the state targeting 5 million visitors by 2026 through a dynamic mix of events, nature-based experiences and long-term destination development. This reflects Malaysia’s…
A message from Panorama Destination Indonesia Greetings from Indonesia! April is one of the most vibrant and rewarding times to experience Indonesia. Across the archipelago, a rich calendar of cultural and wellness events offers travellers unique opportunities to engage more deeply with the nation’s rich traditions and contemporary creative scene. Among the highlights, the Solo Menari Festival in Surakarta (29 April) transforms the city…
Vietnam’s Tết (Lunar New Year) celebrations in 2026 drew record numbers of international visitors, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Asia’s most culturally compelling holiday destinations. Traditionally a time for family reunions, temple visits and nationwide festivities, Tết has increasingly become a magnet for foreign travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences during one of Vietnam’s most meaningful seasons. Major gateways, including Hanoi,…
Phu Quoc is entering 2026 with remarkable momentum, as record international flights and rising visitor numbers position Vietnam’s “Pearl Island” among Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing island destinations. In the lead-up to Lunar New Year, the island experienced its busiest holiday period on record, reflecting strong global demand for tropical escapes that combine natural beauty with modern…
Thailand is emerging as a regional leader in digital detox tourism, responding to growing global demand for wellness experiences that encourage travellers to disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves and nature. From secluded mountain retreats in the north to tranquil island sanctuaries in the south, the kingdom is leveraging its diverse landscapes and deep-rooted wellness traditions to offer…
In February, Chiang Mai welcomed the 2026 Lunar New Year with vibrant celebrations that underscore the city’s cultural diversity and growing appeal as a festive tourism destination. Marking the Year of the Horse, the festival transformed the historic northern Thai city into a lively showcase of Chinese–Thai heritage, with lantern displays, dragon and lion dances, cultural performances and…