Travel Industry, News and Analytics

Asia Pacific Countries Impose New Travel Restrictions Because of Omicron

The new variant of COVID-19 – Omicron – has put the entire tourism industry at risk once again. More and more countries are already imposing new travel restrictions or considering them in attempts to stop the spread of the virus. Malaysia and the Philippines have already completely banned the entry of all travelers coming from certain southern African countries. As the first cases of Omicron are reported in Hong Kong, Italy, the US, Australia, South Korea, and other countries, it is likely that we will see more travel restrictions in the coming weeks.

Travelers with Singapore hotel reservations do not need to cancel their bookings as the Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTL) scheme continues working for now. Singapore decided to put on halt the VTL connection with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar only due to the proximity of these countries to Africa. There are also some changes in the testing requirements for the arriving passengers. All air travelers (both residents and non-residents) including transiting passengers arriving at Changi Airport are obliged to take a pre-departure PCR test and another PCR test on arrival. Travelers using the VTL have an extra requirement to undergo antigen rapid tests on the third and seventh days of arrival.

Travelers who had plans to visit Hong Kong in December may find it increasingly hard to do starting from this week. Hong Kong added another 16 countries (Australia and Japan included) to the Group A trier or high-risk countries. Non-residents from these countries are restricted from entering, and returning residents are subject to a 21-day quarantine.

Indonesia and Thailand also have made some changes in their entry policies. Indonesia has put 11 countries on the temporary travel ban list. Travelers arriving from these countries are obliged to quarantine for 14 days. Residents and non-residents arriving from other countries will have to spend one week in self-quarantine. Thailand removed most African countries from its Sandbox program starting from December 1. Travelers are still allowed to enter Thailand but they are required to have a 14-day quarantine with 3 PCR tests. The country’s Test & Go scheme, which is available for 63 countries, is still valid.

Japan has come further and banned all entries for foreigners without permanent residency. Japanese citizens and permanent residents returning to the country will need to spend up to 10 days in an isolation facility.

Individual City Guides

Tokyo travel guide

It is impossible to describe Tokyo in a few words. The capital of Japan is huge and multifaceted. On the one hand, this city is the embodiment of ancient Japanese traditions, and on the other this is a super modern business metropolis. Tokyo has grown from a small fishing village named Edo. Only several attractions from the shogun times remind of the old city. For a long time shoguns were the absolute rulers of Japan. One can feel the atmosphere of the old Tokyo in numerous palaces, temples and … Read further

Cuisine of Courchevel

Vacationing in Courchevel will appeal not only to fans of active pastime, but also to gourmets, since the resort houses a huge number of attractive restaurants. The La Montagne restaurant has opened in 2003, since then it has become a favorite holiday destination among connoisseurs of Savoyard specialties. Excellent cheese fondue, escargots and frogs legs are branded treats of this popular restaurant. All meals are cooked by skilled chefs on an open fire, so the obtained taste is simply … Read further

Traditions and festivals in Willemstad

Willemstad is a city in Latin America with European traditions. That is how it can be described in a few words. Just imagine a Dutch city framed by sandy beaches - that’s what Willemstad will be like. This is also reflected in the city's architecture and the habits of locals. Like many Dutch cities, Willemstad is characterized by ethnical diversity (it is home to over 100 nationalities). Therefore, locals are used to finding a compromise on many issues. That, in turn, says about tolerance, … Read further

Lesvos cultural sights

Most iconic landmarks of the island are located in the port city of Mytilene. Here you can see beautiful Byzantine buildings, ancient churches, monuments and examples of modern architecture. One of the main distinguishing features of the city is an abundance of beautiful Turkish fountains. They are located along the main road; Mytilene itself can boast more than a dozen of old fountains. The main symbol of the island is beautiful Genoese castle built on a high hill. After the recent … Read further

Agios Nikolaos attractions and entertainment

Rest on the beautiful beaches of the city remains the main entertainment for travelers. Ammos and Kitroplatia beaches, which are located near the center of the city, are the most popular, crowded and well-equipped for sports entertainments. Fans of more secluded rest and those, who have come to the resort with their children, are recommended to visit Havania beach. Divers should absolutely not forget to visit Creta's Happy Divers Center, where they can rent all necessary equipment and book a … Read further

Oldenburg for families and kids

One of the largest cities in Lower Saxony - Oldenburg - is a great option for a family holiday. Here, besides numerous attractions (Oldenburg Castle, the Town Hall, St. Lambert's Church), children will like entertainment centers and parks where you can have a nice walk or picnic. Outdoor activities ideal for the whole family include zipline, golf, SUP-boarding. The first place to go with kids while in Oldenburg is Olantis Huntebad Water Park. The complex houses a swimming pool, three water … Read further

Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is an ideal city for lovers of shopping. It is full of luxury shopping malls, colourful markets and original stores. Osmanbey area is a perfect place for purchasing new clothes and shoes. It includes shops of different price categories. Both young people who prefer the most unusual and trendy details, and lovers of classical style will be able to choose suitable things for themselves. This district is also known for its excellent children's clothing stores and perfect textiles. No less … Read further

Extreme and fun in Puerto Vallarta

Go Diving or Snorkeling in the Los Arcos Marine Park. 5 Islands of the Los Arcos archipelago are located 12 kilometers south of Puerto Vallarta. They have had the status of a national marine park since 1984. If you come here on a pleasure boat, you can watch the birds. They live on this stretch of land. You can also see the coastal tunnels, stone arches, and caves. You can go diving or snorkeling near the steep shores of the picturesque Islands. You will have the opportunity to see coral reefs, … Read further