Thailand has become the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage after its lawmakers approved a bill on Tuesday. The legislation, which will come into force after receiving royal assent, will allow same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples, including adoption and inheritance. This historic decision marks a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) successfully hosted its ‘Experience Macao’ roadshow in Bangkok, Thailand, attracting over 190,000 visitors and generating significant interest in Macao’s tourism offerings. The event featured themed booths, interactive games, and special travel offers, showcasing the vibrant ‘tourism +’ experience of Macao. This initiative aims to strengthen Macao’s presence in the Southeast Asian market.
A recent survey of 4,000 Indian tourists revealed that Southeast Asia has emerged as the preferred destination for short-haul vacations, while Europe and the USA remain favored for longer trips. The ease of obtaining visas and the introduction of a five-year multiple-entry visa for Dubai have contributed to Southeast Asia’s popularity among Indian travelers.
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) reported a significant surge in passenger and cargo traffic during April 2024, driven by the long Easter holidays and increased travel demand. The airport handled 4.23 million passengers, a 35.9% year-on-year increase, and 29,055 flight movements, up by 34.7%. Cargo throughput also witnessed a notable increase of 13.9% to 394,000 tonnes, marking a consistent trend of double-digit growth in cargo volume this year. Key trading regions contributing to the cargo growth include North America, Europe, and Taiwan.
Royal Caribbean International has announced that its beloved Quantum class vessel, Ovation of the Seas, will homeport in Singapore from October 2025 to March 2026. This thrilling vessel will offer a variety of 3- to 5-night cruises to captivating destinations across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, catering to the diverse needs of travelers. Embark on a 3- or 4-night escape to experience the vibrant streets of George Town in Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or bask in the sun on Phuket’s pristine beaches. For an extended adventure, indulge in a 5-night cruise with an evening in Phuket to explore its vibrant night markets, or embark on an 8-night journey to Bali, discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient temples. Aboard the Ovation, an array of exhilarating and relaxing activities awaits. Soar to new heights with the North Star, a glass observation capsule that offers panoramic views from 300 feet above sea level, or experience the thrill of skydiving in the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator. Enjoy endless fun with the FlowRider surf simulator, rock-climbing wall, bumper cars, and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity complex at sea, featuring everything from roller-skating to a full-size sports court. Indulge in a culinary adventure with over 20 dining options, ranging from casual spots like the SeaPlex Dog House and Sorrento’s Pizza to specialty offerings such as Wonderland’s creative dishes and Izumi’s exquisite sushi and sashimi.
Prepare to conquer the skies and embark on budget-friendly adventures with AirAsia MOVE. Experience unparalleled convenience, exclusive low fares on AirAsia flights, and an array of practical app features that enhance your travel journey.
Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, has partnered with Cebu Pacific to boost foreign tourism to the Philippines. The partnership enables inbound travelers to browse CEB flights directly on the Traveloka app, simplifying the process for foreign tourists to discover the country’s appealing destinations. Travelers from Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia are among the primary international visitors to the Philippines.
Prepare for an extraordinary voyage with Royal Caribbean International as the beloved Ovation of the Seas embarks on an exhilarating 2025-2026 season from Singapore, offering an enticing array of itineraries to captivating destinations in Southeast Asia. Commence your unforgettable journey aboard this Quantum Class vessel from October 2025 to March 2026, tailoring your adventure to suit your every whim with voyages ranging from 3 to 8 nights.
Incubase Studio is revolutionizing the entertainment landscape in Southeast Asia with its cutting-edge touring exhibitions featuring iconic franchises. From the immersive Attack on Titan: Final Exhibition to the critically acclaimed One Piece “The Great Era of Piracy” Exhibition Asia Tour, the studio has captivated audiences with its innovative approach to entertainment. With collaborations with top-tier franchises such as Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Hollywood hits like The Conjuring Universe and Frozen, Incubase Studio continues to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans across the region.
The recently published State of Southeast Asia 2024 Survey Report by the ASEAN Studies Centre at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute sheds light on the region’s perspectives on various political, economic, and social issues. The survey highlights the growing influence of China in comparison to the US, the declining popularity of the European Union and India, and the importance of addressing unemployment, economic downturn, and climate change. Additionally, it raises concerns about the diminishing relevance of ASEAN in addressing regional challenges.
