Welcome to the latest edition of Roamer’s Roundup, featuring the most recent travel news and standout updates from across Asia Pacific. Catch up on the latest destination updates, discover where to spend the holidays and ring in the New Year, and get an inside look at Vio Travel’s on-the-ground adventures.
Before you head off on your next adventure, make sure everything’s set for a smooth and stress-free journey. Check out the latest tips, updates, and newest attractions to stay prepared, plan smart, and travel with ease.
Following Kyoto City’s announcement, several regions in Japan will introduce new accommodation taxes starting in 2026. These taxes are applied per person, per night, and are payable directly at the hotel, even for prepaid stays.
We’ll continue to monitor these updates and keep you informed of any new announcements, so we can plan your travels across Japan with confidence.
The controversial construction of the 182-meter glass elevator at Kelingking Beach has been officially halted. Authorities paused the project after identifying multiple violations in spatial planning, coastal zoning, and safety compliance, stating that the development did not align with environmental and cultural protection policies for Nusa Penida. The developer has been ordered to stop work, dismantle non-compliant structures, and restore the affected area. For now, visitors will continue to access the beach via the existing walking paths until a final decision is made on the project’s future.
Southern Thailand is currently experiencing unprecedented flooding following record-breaking rainfall, with Hat Yai among the hardest-hit areas. Thousands of residents and visitors have been affected, homes and streets are submerged, and major transport routes have been disrupted. No hotel properties have been affected. However, inbound and outbound flights at Hat Yai Airport, as well as airport transfers, are temporarily unavailable due to the flooding. Additionally, some boat routes, including Koh Lipe – Hat Yai, have been suspended. For affected guests, transfers have been re-routed to Krabi Airport, which remains fully operational and is the nearest alternative airport. We will keep you informed of any updates as developments arise.
It’s almost the end of the year, and we know you’ve been thinking about where to celebrate the countdown to 2026 across the Asia-Pacific. Here’s our curated guide to the best spots to welcome the New Year in style.
DUBAI, UAE is synonymous with grand celebrations, and its New Year’s Eve countdown is nothing short of spectacular. Expect world-record fireworks, glittering light shows, and glamorous parties that stretch across iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. For those seeking extravagance and unforgettable moments, Dubai delivers a celebration like no other.
SINGAPORE offers a New Year’s Eve that balances excitement with accessibility for all ages. From the Marina Bay fireworks and immersive light shows to kid-friendly events and festive street performances, the Lion City ensures families can celebrate in comfort while enjoying one of the region’s most iconic waterfront views.
Celebrations rival SYDNEY, Australia’s New Year’s Eve. The world-famous harbour fireworks, synchronized across the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, create an iconic backdrop that travellers dream of experiencing. From vantage points along the harbour to exclusive cruises, Australia offers a quintessential countdown that combines spectacle with tradition.
THAILAND is the ultimate playground for New Year’s Eve, with options to suit every style and budget. From lively beach parties in Phuket and Koh Samui to chic rooftop celebrations in Bangkok, expect music, fire shows, and tropical vibes. Thailand’s mix of affordability, variety, and festive energy makes it perfect for those seeking a fun and vibrant countdown.
HONG KONG combines dramatic skyline views with unforgettable harbour experiences. Watch the city light up with fireworks reflected over Victoria Harbour, or take a cruise to see the spectacle from the water. Sophisticated rooftop bars and themed events provide options for both lively parties and more elegant celebrations, making it a versatile choice for ringing in 2026.
Let us help you design your 2026 countdown, crafting a celebration that’s perfectly tailored and seamlessly integrated into your travel itinerary.
Break away from the ordinary this holiday season. Discover handpicked experience stays that let you celebrate your holidays in an unconventional, unique, and truly memorable way.
For travellers seeking the ultimate tropical holiday, South Palms Resort and Spa on Panglao Island is the perfect match. Nestled along pristine white-sand beaches and surrounded by lush gardens, the resort features elegantly designed rooms and beachfront villas with private terraces and panoramic sea views. Guests can enjoy multiple dining options, from a beachfront seafood restaurant to casual beachside bars, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or sunrise yoga sessions. With an infinity pool overlooking the horizon, water sports, wellness programmes, and curated cultural experiences, South Palms provides a complete tropical escape — blending relaxation, adventure, and authentic local charm for a truly unforgettable holiday.
Nestled in the serene mountains of Hakone, Gōra Kadan offers a luxurious onsen holiday retreat that blends traditional Japanese elegance with modern comfort. Guests can unwind in tatami‑floored rooms, private open‑air hot‑spring baths, and tranquil gardens, while enjoying seasonal kaiseki dining and rejuvenating spa treatments. With its peaceful surroundings, hot-spring therapies, and easy access to Hakone’s nature and cultural sites, Gōra Kadan is the perfect escape for travellers seeking a restorative and authentic Japanese onsen experience.
Escape to the lush landscapes of Nusa Dua and immerse yourself in a truly restorative wellness holiday at REVĪVŌ Bali. Private suites and villas are tucked within tropical gardens, offering serene privacy and direct access to spa therapies, yoga, meditation, and curated wellness programmes. Complemented by nutrient-rich cuisine and tranquil surroundings, REVĪVŌ provides a holistic experience that rejuvenates both body and mind — the perfect choice for travellers seeking a mindful, tropical escape.
Just minutes from the Angkor temples, Amansara blends colonial-era elegance with modern comfort in spacious suites and tranquil gardens, making it the perfect base for a culture and heritage holiday. Guests can immerse themselves in Cambodia’s rich history through guided temple tours, curated local experiences, and refined Khmer cuisine, returning each day to the resort’s serene sanctuary. Combining relaxation with cultural discovery, Amansara offers a truly memorable holiday experience.
Want a holiday that stands out? This festive season, our Vio Travel Specialists have selected unique offbeat getaways that let you trade the usual celebrations for adventures you’ll never forget.
Journey through the Philippines from Manila’s vibrant cityscape to Bohol’s quiet shores, El Nido’s dramatic limestone bays, and Boracay’s iconic white sands—staying in reliable, comfortable hotels that keep every stop effortless.
Begin your journey in Manila at City Garden Grand Hotel, a comfortable base in vibrant Makati with easy access to dining, nightlife, and city sights. Fly next to Bohol and unwind at Henann Premier Coast Resort, where calm shores and laid-back island rhythms set the perfect beach escape.
Continue to El Nido and check in at The Funny Lion, a chic coastal hideaway ideal for exploring Bacuit Bay’s lagoons and limestone cliffs. Wrap your island-hopping adventure in Boracay at Feliz Hotel, steps from White Beach’s lively charm, before returning to Manila for a smooth farewell stay at Seda BGC.
Embark on an extraordinary multi-city escape beginning in Bangkok, staying at the sleek Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, with time to drift through the “Venice of the East” on a classic Klong Tour and visit the iconic Wat Arun. Continue to Phuket for a romantic coastal retreat at The Shore at Katathani, where private pools and sweeping sea views set the tone for pure relaxation.
Fly onward to Singapore and check in at the legendary Marina Bay Sands, adding a dose of adrenaline with Sidecar Thrills as you zip around the city’s landmarks in vintage style. Your journey concludes in Bali, beginning at the serene Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort in Badung before shifting to the grandeur of The Apurva Kempinski Nusa Dua, with a scenic Volkswagen Safari to Uluwatu.
You can book all of these Experience Stays and Travel Inspirations as standalone services or customize them to your preferences through our B2B Booking Platform.
We were honoured to host the of the Women of the World Travel journey in Thailand and Cambodia—an initiative dedicated to empowering women through meaningful and inspired travel. The experience brought together remarkable women from across the globe, creating a space for genuine connection, shared stories, and purposeful exploration.
Throughout the trip, the group immersed in local communities, engaged in authentic cultural activities, and discovered Thailand through thoughtfully curated moments designed to foster connection and celebrate women supporting women. As we prepare for the upcoming legs of this exciting journey, we look forward to creating even more memorable experiences with this extraordinary community.
Indonesia revealed its magic on our recent FAM trip with AMAN Hotels, where each property offers unique experiences celebrating culture, nature, and luxury.
Amanjiwo in Central Java overlooks the sacred Borobudur, blending serene vistas with a deep connection to spiritual heritage. In Bali, Amandari immerses guests in Ubud’s cultural heartbeat, Amankila showcases East Bali’s dramatic coastline, and the Aman Villas at Nusa Dua offer refined tropical seclusion with private pools and gardens. On Moyo Island, Amanwana provides a rare wilderness sanctuary surrounded by pristine waters and protected marine life.
Experiences like these showcase our expertise in curating elevated, memorable journeys—creating opportunities to explore, connect, and discover the moments that make travel unforgettable.
Still searching for your next adventure? We went straight to our Vio Travel Experts to get insider tips on the best destinations, stays, and hidden gems. From must-visit spots to off-the-beaten-path experiences, here’s what they had to say!
What’s one thing you love about being in the industry?
What I love most about the industry is crafting itineraries that let guests create lifetime memories. I enjoy connecting with them, sharing experiences, and seeing them return home fully prepared—without a single “I wish I knew this before I go.” That’s when I feel truly rewarded.
Where is your go-to getaway, and why?
My go-to getaway is a self-drive along Australia’s East Coast. A beach lover with a passion for wildlife, nature, and Aboriginal culture, I love how this journey offers it all—from pristine beaches and unique wildlife to world-class wineries, stunning scenery, and rich heritage—engaging every type of traveller and showcasing Australia’s incredible diversity.
What makes a stay stand out, and can you share one you would recommend the most?
A stay stands out when it blends luxury, authenticity, and a true sense of place. Longitude 131° at Uluru is a perfect example, offering private tented suites with stunning outback views, immersive Indigenous cultural experiences, and world-class dining—a stay that leaves a lasting impression.
What’s the most unique or off-the-beaten-path experience you’ve ever had?
One of my most memorable experiences in Australia was watching the sunset over the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, followed by a guided nature walk with a local expert. Seeing the dramatic coastline bathed in golden light and exploring it on foot made for an unforgettable connection to the land and its natural beauty.
What destination do you think is the next big hit?
From my perspective, Adelaide and regional Australia will be standout destinations in 2026. Adelaide is emerging as a hub for design, food, and wine, with cultural precincts and boutique experiences that rival Sydney and Melbourne.
Can you share some tips on how to find the most unique experiences and stays?
The key to finding unique experiences and stays is local knowledge and trusted guidance. At Vio Travel, we work with handpicked properties and local experts to craft journeys that become lifetime memories, supported by our passionate team who tailor every itinerary to each traveller’s interests.
And that’s it! Remember, you can book all of these experiences with us and integrate them into your clients’ itineraries, ensuring you offer them the best experience possible, within minutes!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team via info@vio.travel
For booking-related inquiries, message us at booking@vio.travel.