Hanoi’s iconic Train Street, a narrow railway track lined with quaint cafés and bustling shops, has long been one of the city’s most intriguing attractions. Tourists flock to this area for a unique experience—sipping coffee just inches from an active railway line while waiting for a train to rumble past. However, concerns over public safety have led the Hanoi Department of Tourism to impose a ban on organised tours to this famous site. A Thrill-Seeker’s Favourite, Now Off-Limits Stretching through Le Duan, Tran Phu, Cua Dong, and Phung Hung streets, Train Street is particularly popular along a 300-metre section between Tran Phu and Phung Hung streets. Here, visitors could previously…

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled a list of destinations in Asia for 2025, providing travelers with a month-by-month guide from March onwards to the continent’s seasonal attractions, cultural highlights, and unique experiences. The monthly travel guide suggests different places and cultures throughout the year, based on perfect times to visit. From the scenic cherry blossoms of Tokyo, Japan in March to the lively Diwali celebrations in Jaipur come October, Agoda’s selection offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared, “At Agoda, we love helping people explore the world for less. We believe travel should be accessible and inspiring, and…

Bali, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, has long been a magnet for global travellers. However, the island’s popularity has ushered in challenges related to overtourism, prompting local authorities to consider innovative solutions to preserve its unique environment and heritage. One such proposal under serious consideration is the introduction of a daily tourism tax for all foreign visitors, inspired by Bhutan’s sustainable tourism model. Bhutan’s approach to tourism is characterised by a Sustainable Development Fee, where international tourists are required to pay USD 100 (RM446) per day. This model aims to attract ‘high-quality’ tourists who are willing to invest in the preservation of the country’s cultural and natural…