You searched for 747 – Page 2 of 69

Travel Daily Media

TDM AWARDS - NOMINATE NOW!

Search Results for747

Airlines and Aviation

EVA to retire Boeing 747s in August

EVA Air's Boeing 747-400 aircraft EVA Air's last Boeing 747 aircraft will be retired in August. The 372-seat, three-class aircraft is the largest passenger jet in EVA's fleet, but these aging jets are gradually being replaced by newer, more fuel-efficient models. EVA’s last remaining 747 will take off for the final time on 21 August 2017, on the route between Taipei's Taoyuan International Airport and Hong Kong, marking a major milestone in the airline’s fleet renewal process. These four-engined aircraft have been gradually removed from service in recent months and years, and replaced by EVA's expanding fleet of twin-engined 777-300ERs and Airbus A330-300s. The airline also has outstanding orders for 24 787 Dreamliner aircraft, including 20 787-10s - the largest version of the new fuel-efficient jet. Several other Asian airlines have retired their 747s in recent years, including Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Japan Airlines. Boeing has produced a new, more fuel-efficient version of the 747, but it has not proven popular with passenger airlines.

Airlines and Aviation

EVA Air to retire Boeing 747s this year

EVA Air's Boeing 747-400 aircraft EVA Air is accelerating the retirement of its Boeing 747 fleet, bringing forward the scheduled date of the final flight from October to August 2017. The Taiwanese carrier currently operates three 747-400 aircraft, which are still the largest in its fleet with a total of 372 seats in three classes. But these are being gradually replaced by new long-haul jets, including the Boeing 777-300ER. As a result, EVA's final 747 flight will operate between Taipei and Shanghai on 20 August. EVA's long-haul fleet renewal programme will continue in the coming years when it starts taking delivery of its new fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Like many current and former 747 operators, EVA has decided against buying the new version of the aircraft, the 747-8 Intercontinental.

Airlines and Aviation

37 dead as Boeing 747 crashes in Kyrgyzstan

The aircraft was operated by ACT Airlines, a Turkish cargo carrier A large cargo plane crashed in Kyrgyzstan on Monday morning, killing at least 37 people. The incident occurred when the Boeing 747 aircraft, operated by Turkey's ACT Airlines, crashed while landing at Manas airport, 25km north of the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek. The flight had taken off from Hong Kong. The wide-body jet left the end of the runway and crashed into houses in a village located next to the airport. At least 15 buildings are reported to have been destroyed. In a statement, ACT Airlines said the aircraft had crashed for "an unknown reason", but freezing fog was reported at the airport at the time of the incident. Boeing said it was ready send a technical team to Kyrgyzstan, if requested by the investigating authorities.

Cultural Tourism

easyJet reveals 2026 travel trends for British holidaymakers

British holidaymakers are set to embrace longer short haul flights and utilise technology for immersive travel planning in 2026, according to a new report by easyJet and easyJet Holidays. The annual Great British Holiday Audit, which surveyed 2,000 British travellers, identifies 15 key trends shaping travel plans this year, driven by cultural, sporting, and astronomical events. The report reveals that over half of Brits plan to visit a new country, with many opting for two or more holidays. Cultural phenomena such as The White Lotus and the World Cup are inspiring travel, whilst generational shifts see parents with pre-schoolers and 'home alone' parents exploring new destinations. "We’re seeing travellers plan around passions and purpose," said travel expert Nigel Thompson, who contributed to the report. Longer short haul flights, ranging from five to six hours, are becoming increasingly popular, with destinations like Tunisia and Georgia gaining traction. EasyJet reports a 21% increase in flights to leisure spots such as Morocco, Turkey, and Cyprus. Additionally, technology is playing a significant role, with nearly half of holidaymakers using virtual reality and vlogs to 'try before they fly'. Astronomy tourism is emerging as a distinctive trend, particularly among Gen Z, with the total solar eclipse on 12 August drawing interest. Meanwhile, sports tourism is on the rise, with the padel phenomenon encouraging new types of sports breaks. EasyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis noted, "We’re seeing shifts in customer behaviour, like longer short-haul routes and technology making destinations more accessible." Garry Wilson, CEO of easyJet Holidays, added, "Customers are becoming more intentional about travel, prioritising meaningful experiences." The report underscores a shift towards travel that prioritises connection, wellbeing, and memorable experiences, reflecting broader changes in how Brits plan their holidays. ```

Australia

First Cruise from Australia? 5 Best Destinations to Sail in 2026

If 2026 is the year you finally book your first cruise from Australia, think of it as choosing the easiest kind of holiday you’ll ever take. You unpack once, settle into your cabin, and let new coastlines, cultures and experiences come to you while someone else takes care of the logistics.​ This guide highlights five of the best regions for first‑time cruisers in the Australian market: the South Pacific, New Zealand, Queensland & the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, and short coastal “sampler” cruises from Sydney and Brisbane.​ Why a Cruise is Ideal for First‑Time Travellers For Australians, cruising bundles accommodation, dining, entertainment and transport into one upfront fare, making it a simple option whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or with friends. Modern ships from lines such as Princess, Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer a mix of sea days, resort‑style pools and curated shore excursions, so you can be as relaxed or as busy as you like.​ Many 2026 itineraries depart directly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Fremantle and Adelaide, so first‑timers can skip long‑haul flights and start their holiday as soon as they step onboard.​ South Pacific & Fiji – Classic First Cruise from Australia For countless Australians, a South Pacific voyage is the quintessential “first cruise” experience. Departing from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, these itineraries visit islands in New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji, with calm seas, warm weather and plenty of beach time. Typical ports include Nouméa, Lifou, Mystery Island, Vila and Denarau, with many itineraries adding a sea day at each end for poolside downtime.​ Why it works for first‑timers: Easy access from major Australian home ports, often with competitively priced fares.​ A relaxed mix of swimming, snorkelling, village visits and market browsing at each port.​ 7–10 night itineraries that feel like a proper holiday without needing too much annual leave.​ Best time to go: April to November for lower humidity and fewer tropical storms, avoiding peak school holidays if you want a quieter ship. New Zealand – Scenic Cruises for Nature Lovers New Zealand is the top overseas cruise destination for Australians in 2026, thanks to its spectacular coastlines and easy, English‑speaking ports. Cruises typically depart from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne and spend 10–14 nights visiting cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin, plus scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park.​ Why it works for first‑timers: Incredible scenic days sailing through fiords, sounds and along dramatic coasts.​ Walkable cities with cafés, museums, markets and shore tours that are easy to understand and book.​ Familiar currency and culture with just enough differences to feel like a true overseas holiday. Best time to go: November to March for the warmest weather and longer days; look at early or late season (November or March) for better value.​ 3. Queensland & the Great Barrier Reef – Sun, Reefs and Islands Queensland itineraries are soaring in popularity, with ports like Airlie Beach, the Whitsundays, Cairns and Hamilton Island ranking among Australians’ favourite cruise destinations for 2026. Most cruises depart from Sydney or Brisbane and run 7–10 nights, combining coral reef excursions, rainforests and laid‑back coastal towns.​ Why it works for first‑timers: No passport needed, making it ideal if you’re new to overseas travel. Easy days spent reef‑snorkelling, lazing on white‑sand beaches or wandering waterfront esplanades.​ Weather that suits families and sun‑seekers, plus shorter flights or drive‑to access to embarkation ports.​ Best time to go: The dry season from May to October, especially for Great Barrier Reef clarity and milder humidity.​ 4. Tasmania – Short Breaks with Big Scenery   If you’d like a “test run” before committing to a longer voyage, look at 4–7 night cruises from Sydney or Melbourne to Tasmania. Many itineraries combine Hobart with Port Arthur, scenic coastal cruising or an extra port such as Burnie.​ Why it works for first‑timers: Shorter sailings that fit into a single week of leave or a school holiday break.​ A mix of convict history, cool‑climate wine, MONA, markets and wild coastlines, all without airport transfers at either end.​ Mild summer temperatures that are ideal if you prefer crisp air to tropical heat. Best time to go: November to March for the best weather and longest daylight hours.​ 5. Short Coastal “Sampler” Cruises – Try Before You Commit If you’re unsure whether cruising is for you, short sampler voyages are the easiest way to dip a toe in. In 2026, several lines offer 2–5 night round‑trip sailings from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, often visiting nearby ports like Eden, Hobart or Moreton Bay, or simply offering a weekend at sea with no international stops.​ Why it works for first‑timers: Low‑commitment way to experience ship life, dining and entertainment.​ Ideal for birthday weekends, hens/ bucks, or a quick escape without using much annual leave. Often some of the best‑value cruise fares on the market per night.​ Best time to go: Throughout the Australian cruise season (roughly October to April), with shoulder‑season dates often priced very competitively.​ Quick Guide: Choosing Your First Cruise Destination Priority Best destination(s) Why it’s great for first‑timers Typical length When to go first Best value South Pacific in shoulder season Lower fares, round‑trip from Aussie ports, warm weather 7–10 nights April–June, Oct–Nov (outside school holidays) ​ Maximum variety in a week South Pacific or Queensland islands Multiple ports, easy beach days, shortish sea legs 7 nights Main season; best value outside peak holidays ​ Nature and wow‑factor New Zealand or Queensland & Great Barrier Reef Fiords, reefs, wildlife and big landscapes 10–14 nights Nov–Mar for NZ; May–Oct for Reef ​ Culture and city‑hopping New Zealand city‑focused itineraries Walkable ports with museums, cafés, markets 10–14 nights Nov–Mar ​ Easygoing short break Tasmania or 2–5 night coastal samplers Short cruises, minimal time off work, simple logistics 2–7 nights Oct–Apr ​ Frequently Asked Questions for First‑Time Australian Cruisers Is a cruise a good idea for my first overseas‑style holiday? Yes. Cruises from Australia combine your cabin, most meals, entertainment and transport into one fare, so you see multiple destinations without constantly packing, unpacking or navigating airports.​ How long should my first cruise be? Many Australians start with 7–10 nights to the South Pacific or New Zealand, or opt for a 3–5 night sampler along the coast if they want to “try before they buy.”​ What’s usually included in the fare? Your cruise fare generally covers your stateroom, main‑dining and buffet meals, theatre shows, kids’ clubs and many onboard activities; extras like specialty restaurants, shore excursions, drinks packages and Wi‑Fi can be added based on your budget.​ Do I need a passport for my first cruise? For domestic‑only cruises to Australian ports you may not need a passport, but you will for international itineraries to the South Pacific, New Zealand and beyond; always check requirements with your chosen cruise line and your travel agent.​ If you tell me which of these five regions you want to spotlight on your site first, I can draft a shorter landing‑page version tailored to that destination.

Bhutan

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary offers guests a tantalising Glimpse of Bhutan

Luxury wellness retreat Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary offers guests a look into the spirit of its mountain home with Glimpse of Bhutan. This exquisite offering is a six-day, five-night all-inclusive journey that distills the essence of the Himalayan Kingdom into a deeply restorative and culturally rich experience.  Designed for travellers who value meaning over movement, the programme blends sacred landscapes, living traditions, and traditional wellness into one seamless, unhurried stay. Including five nights, all meals, wellness treatments, guided excursions, and seamless logistics, Glimpse of Bhutan all-inclusive offers one of the most comprehensive luxury wellness journeys in the Himalayas, designed not to impress quickly, but to resonate deeply. A transformative journey from start to finish Guests arriving at Paro International Airport are welcomed by the Sanctuary's Guest Experience team and transferred to the retreat within 15 minutes, a rarity in Bhutan that immediately distinguishes the experience.  The first moments are intentionally quiet: a traditional Buddhist transformation ritual marks the transition from travel to presence, followed by a personal welcome to the guest's room and a refined four-course chef's lunch. The afternoon introduces the wellness journey which starts with a private consultation with an in-house Traditional Bhutanese Medicine doctor who assesses elemental balance and lifestyle patterns, forming the basis for the days ahead.  The first wellness treatment follows, easing the body after travel, before evening settles in with a six-course dinner, often served on the open terrace as the valley lights fade and prayer flags move softly in the wind. A gentle approach to acclimatisation The following day is devoted to acclimatisation, a crucial yet often overlooked element of Himalayan travel.  Mornings begin with optional yoga or meditation, followed by an à la carte breakfast. Guests are encouraged to move intuitively through the day: a short, guided hike through the Neyphu Valley with a homemade picnic; a herbal walk through the Sanctuary's gardens led by wellness therapists; or time spent in the infinity pool, library, or sundeck.  Wellness treatments are interwoven seamlessly, reinforcing a rhythm of movement and rest. Lunch and dinner are served at the guest's chosen time, underscoring the Sanctuary's commitment to personal pacing. Where history is alive and well A journey to Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable point, offers panoramic views across the Paro and Haa valleys.  Here, guests hang prayer flags, a deeply symbolic act for well-being and longevity, before continuing to explore the remote Haa Valley with a homemade picnic. Another day brings a cultural immersion into Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, where ancient tradition and contemporary life coexist.  Highlights include the monumental Buddha Dordenma, the Simply Bhutan Museum, and an optional visit to the Choki Traditional Art School, which preserves traditional crafts through education.  Evenings return guests to the Sanctuary's stillness, just in time for dinner and another wellness treatment. Other elements to look forward to Spiritual Encounters and Hands-On Tradition One of the most intimate days involves a guided hike across the valley to Eutok Goenpa Monastery. Welcomed by monks and students, guests witness Buddhist rituals, engage in conversation, and gain rare insight into monastic life. The return journey includes a picnic surrounded by nature, followed by a free-flowing afternoon of wellness, traditional sports, pottery, cooking classes, or just quiet reflection. Punakha and the Fertile Heart of Bhutan A full-day excursion to the Punakha Valley introduces a softer, subtropical landscape. Stops at the Dochu La Pass reveal sweeping Himalayan views, while the Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as Bhutan's most beautiful fortress-monastery, anchors the day in architectural and spiritual grandeur. Guests can explore suspension bridges, sacred temples, or take contemplative walks before returning to the Sanctuary for evening wellness treatments and dinner. Pilgrimage to Tiger's Nest One of Bhutan's most iconic experiences, the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is approached as a pilgrimage rather than a challenge. The day begins early with herbal tea and a fruit shot, before a scenic drive to the trailhead. The ascent unfolds slowly over two to four hours, with regular pauses and a packed breakfast enjoyed along the way. At the monastery, which is still an active spiritual site, guests are guided through its sacred chambers and altars, gaining insight into Bhutanese Buddhism and the site's enduring significance. The return to the Sanctuary is intentionally restorative, often followed by a hot stone herbal bath to ease muscles. Evening celebrations include traditional dress photography and an authentic Bhutanese dinner, with stargazing offered on clear nights. Departure with Continuity On the final day, guests explore Paro's cultural landmarks, from the Paro Dzong and National Museum to artisan paper workshops and textile galleries before returning for a final afternoon of wellness, swimming, or quiet contemplation. The intention is clear: guests do not simply depart relaxed, but equipped with practices, awareness, and balance that extend well beyond the stay.

Airlines and Aviation

Air Astana adopts AI for ground operations

Air Astana, Kazakhstan's leading airline, has partnered with easie by ICRON to implement an AI-powered Resource Management solution for its ground operations. This move aims to enhance the airline's operational efficiency and resilience as it expands its network and passenger volumes. The solution will integrate strategic planning and real-time operational responsiveness across Air Astana's multiple stations. The AI-driven platform will unify workforce and equipment planning, using real-time data and predictive algorithms to optimise shift plans and coordinate operations efficiently. Filippos Siakkas, Chief Operating Officer of Air Astana, stated, "As our network grows and passenger expectations rise, enhancing the intelligence and resilience of our ground operations is essential." Esad Cakici, VP Operations at easie by ICRON, highlighted the complexity of ground operations, noting that the AI-driven approach provides operational clarity and control. This collaboration underscores Air Astana's commitment to advanced technologies that improve reliability, safety, and passenger experience. Air Astana, established in 2002, is a full-service airline offering domestic and international flights. Easie by ICRON specialises in AI-powered solutions for the aviation industry, transforming operational data into actionable insights to enhance efficiency and profitability. ```

Airlines and Aviation

LOT Polish Airlines celebrates India’s Republic Day

LOT Polish Airlines has extended its warm wishes to India on the occasion of Republic Day, celebrating the nation's unity and diversity. The airline, which operates flights connecting India and Poland, took the opportunity to acknowledge the significance of this national holiday, which marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution on 26 January 1950. In a statement, LOT Polish Airlines expressed its admiration for India's rich cultural heritage and the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities. The airline's gesture underscores its commitment to fostering strong ties with India, a key market in its international network. The celebration of Republic Day by LOT Polish Airlines highlights the importance of cultural exchange and international cooperation. By recognising such significant national events, the airline not only strengthens its brand presence but also builds goodwill among its Indian customers. As LOT Polish Airlines continues to expand its operations in India, this gesture serves as a reminder of the airline's dedication to understanding and respecting the cultures of the countries it serves. The airline's acknowledgement of India's Republic Day is a testament to its ongoing efforts to connect people and cultures across the globe. ```

Cultural Tourism

5 countries lead concert tourism boom as infrastructure and new policies lure global acts

With concert tourism gaining ground in Asia, we need to keep in mind that it’s not the only major hub for the sector. Indeed, while Singapore has been actively wooing global artists and both Japan and South Korea continue to enjoy the revenue pouring in from J-pop / J-rock and K-pop events, the rest of the world is still rolling out the red carpet for major acts and their fans. By doing so, they aren’t just securing a place for themselves in contemporary music history, but also boosting activity and revenues for everything from airlines and hotels to retailers and attractions. This year, experts are pointing out five nations that stand to take the lead in global concert tourism, not just in terms of arrival numbers, but also what they can offer fans travelling into their territory. United States: Festivals from sea to shining sea The biggest musical draw for the United States in terms of concert tourism is still its diverse range of musical festivals. The country initially came to the fore as a major musical attraction in the ‘60s when Woodstock pulled droves of young adults from throughout the country into New York state to enjoy performances from The Grateful Dead, The Who, Joan Baez and a host of artists who became legends in their own right. Since then, other music-centric attractions have emerged, ranging from the country music hub that is Tennessee’s Grand Ole Opry, to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in Louisiana, to Coachella which has become the It Girl of contemporary music festivals, seeing how it draws in some of the biggest names in the current industry. Just to give you an idea of the economic impact Coachella has, consider this: the 2017 edition of Coachella became the first music festival in the world to breach the US$100 million-mark in terms of earnings, breaching it at US$114.6 million through its two-day run. At the same time, Coachella attendees brought US$106 million to local accommodations, F&B, and retail providers in the host town of Indio, part of the US$600 million the festival generated in total for the Coachella Valley. However, experts point out that the current sociopolitical climate in the US has significantly driven down demand for it as a tourism destination; at the same time, the directive issued earlier this week suspending visa processing for 75 countries could mean lower numbers and even lower revenues for the US concert scene this year. The United Kingdom: Music matters It shouldn’t be surprising that the country that gave the world both The Beatles and The Rolling Stones continues to be a hub for music tourism. When it comes to concert tourism, however, one UK festival continues to rule the roost even after half a century: Glastonbury. As of end-2023, the global music festival has generated £168 million for UK tourism and tourism-adjacent businesses, with £32 million of that specifically benefiting Somerset in whose jurisdiction Glastonbury is held. In terms of the bigger picture, music tourism (combining concerts with related historical tours) generated £3.1 billion as of end-2014 and the total has improved following the pandemic, albeit slowly. As former British culture secretary John Whittingdale put it: "Festivals like Glastonbury hold an iconic status on the world music scene and are one of the reasons why international tourism is booming in the UK, drawing in streams of visitors to all parts of the country." Japan: Innovation changes the game Neighbouring South Korea’s acts may be touring the world right now, but concert tourism to and within Japan remains a major revenue generator for the country. Per a Statista report, the live music industry generated over US$3.2 billion in total revenues as of end-2023, 90 percent of which was earned by domestic acts. While the official numbers aren’t in as of press time, it was projected that the sector stood to earn around US$1.5 billion by end-2025. This drop in revenues has prompted Japanese event organisers to step up their game, offering innovative approaches that are revolutionising the industry.  One interesting example is that of the Hatsune Miku Expo, a global concert tour organised by Crypton Future Media featuring the digitally-generated idol singer Hatsune Miku, which skillfully blends artificial intelligence, stage management, and virtual/augmented reality technologies to bring the virtual star to life. Australia: Moving beyond Splendour in the Grass When it comes to concert tourism, Splendour in the Grass is what usually comes to mind when Australia is brought up. Prior to 2020 and the onslaught of COVID-19, the country’s premier music festival generated an average of around AU$87 million per annum, generating over 300 jobs locally as a way of stimulating the economy of the Byron Bay area. Today, however, Splendour is no longer the only game in town when it comes to concert tourism. Melbourne’s Laneway Festival, slated for 5th to 15th February, has long boomed from a local gig to a multi-day, multi-stage festival that is drawing in the like of global star Chappell Roan to come and jam with local artists specialising in a wide array of musical genres. Laneway has also expanded its scope, bringing concert fans to locations not just in Australia, but also in neighbouring New Zealand. India: A rising powerhouse India may not strike most people as a key venue for concert tourism, but there is no mistaking the fact that the country’s live music sector was valued at around US$1.4 billion as of end-2024 and is growing at a compound annual growth rate of about 19 percent. Surprisingly, a number of global acts are shying away from the crush of Mumbai and Delhi and mounting their performances in the country’s second- and third-tier cities. Far from being seen negatively, this development is seen as an economic boost to areas that would normally be bypassed for major events, generating both revenue and income in spades. The second-string city of Meghalaya, in particular, made history in 2024 as the first city in India to have a formal music tourism policy that looked on concerts as long-term investments as opposed to one-time booms. This prompted chief minister Conrad K Sangma to remark: “These events must not be seen as expenses but as investments that attract visitors, empower local talent, boost the local economy, and create resources to support other essential sectors.” But while these five nations are currently riding the crest of the wave, the year is young and we’re keeping an eye on other emergent players in the field.

Asia

Travel sectors surge across Asia as governments compete for exclusive global concert tours

Concert tourism became a major buzzword throughout Asia in 2025 thanks to a number of global celebrities putting regional capitals on their world tour maps. With acts like Coldplay, Lady Gaga, and Taylor Swift booking gigs in major Asian cities, avid fans from throughout the globe are booking flights and accommodations all for even the barest glimpse of their idols and be a part in their own small way of music history. That surging wave of interest has proven profitable for the regional travel and hospitality sectors, given how Grand View Research sees Asian concert tourism growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.8 percent till 2030. While the total revenues for 2025 have yet to be tallied, the regional industry generated revenues totalling over US$19.9 billion at the end of 2024. Subsequently, concert tourism in Asia stands to be worth a staggering US$85.8 billion by 2033; this is achievable as early as now given how global supergroups like BTS and regional acts like Blackpink and BINI have announced tour dates and venues running well into 2027. But why is Asia becoming a magnet for global concert tourism, and will the region be able to sustain the momentum? That’s what we’re going to dive into in today’s Travel Daily Media report. Concert tourism’s roots in history and societal development If we go by history, concerts and music festivals as a draw for tourists are actually ancient history for Asia. As far back as 1046BC, court musicians, especially those with a penchant for composition, performed for nobles and commons alike at public demonstrations of their art. The opening of global trade routes also meant that musicians who were inclined to travel could bring the act of performance to other nations as a way of sharing their art with the world. Fast forward to more contemporary times, we can date this surge in the popularity of concert tourism to around 2023, just as the world began reopening its doors post-pandemic. Concert tourism in this context may have well been spurred on by the concept of revenge tourism people making up for the three years they were housebound and grounded by following their favourite singers and bands anywhere in the world. Strategic partnerships for maximum impact Sustained momentum for concert tourism in Asia has been driven by partnerships established between online travel agencies and both regional and global concert promoters and event management companies. Consider the partnership between promoter Live Nation Asia and Trip.com: this tie-up gives fans the opportunity to snag tickets well before the actual date of public sale, along with reasonable rates for flights, hotel stays, and even attractions if they choose to roam around the destination prior to or after the concert. At the same time, if somewhat controversial, national governments and their respective tourism boards are actively courting individual acts to get them to perform in their countries. One good example for this is Thailand: it may be recalled that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) designated 2025 as the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year, a development that led to major events like Tomorrowland in the country, thus boosting tourist arrival numbers, online searches, and bookings Indeed, global K-pop girl-group Blackpink’s two-night DEADLINE World Tour stop in Bangkok in October led to a 130 percent surge in online searches for accommodations, driven mostly by Thai-born member Lalisa “LISA” Manobal. It will also be recalled that Singapore raised eyebrows among its peers in ASEAN for bagging the biggest plum of all in the concern scene: the exclusive right to host the only Asian leg of pop star Taylor Swift’s ERAS World Tour. While it may have ruffled feathers throughout Southeast Asia, this strategic move on the part of the Singaporean government proved to be a boon for the country's tourism, netting over US$450 million in hospitality and tourism revenue as of 2nd December 2025. As a result, countries like Indonesia and the Philippines are scrambling to get a piece of the proverbial pie, and this has resulted in both countries appearing on the map for the 2026-2027 BTS World Tour and the latter serving as venue for the final stops of the event. It is to be surmised that this will drive bookings for flights, accommodations, as well as attractions to these countries from now until the first quarter of 2027. The why behind Asia’s soaring popularity as a concert hub But why exactly is Asia becoming the region to keep an eye on in terms of concert tourism? There are actually several aspects working in the continent’s favour: Infrastructure Being a major player in the global MICE sector, it’s no secret that virtually every Asian country has at least two major venues big enough to host even concerts of the biggest possible scale. From the Philippine Arena which hosted the Manila stop of U2’s 2019 global tour to Singapore’s massive National Stadium, regional venues have capacity, facilities, and even technically-trained personnel to help pull off massive musical endeavours; Interregional travel Another advantage of Asia as a venue is that those resident in the region often don’t need to apply for a visa in the event that they book to watch a concert in a neighbouring country. Also, for countries that do require a visa for entry, it is actually much easier to apply and be approved for one well before the event. It should be noted that up to 63 percent of Asian travellers cross borders to attend concerts and similar events; Industrial partnerships Event management and ticketing companies actively tie-up with OTAs throughout the region to give avid fans the opportunity to be part of the action through discounts for event tickets or the privilege of buying tickets well before they’re made available to the general public. At the same time, sponsorships with airlines and hotels also serve as targeted campaigns; Massive markets Both Eastern and Western artists enjoy massive fanbases within Asia, as seen in revenues earned from merchandise sold online as well as fan club and streaming platform subscriptions. Japan and Korea, both of which have had global reach in terms of popular culture, have both earned tremendously both in-country and on a regional basis; and Event experts abound Asia has no shortage of concert impresarios who pull out all the stops when it comes to sets, pyrotechnics, and special effects to turn simple performances into impressive spectacles. The roster currently includes Hong Kong’s Harris Ho, Japan’s Jun Matsumoto, Paolo Valenciano in the Philippines, and Lenny Wee in Singapore. With all that said, one thing is certain: Asia is rolling out the red carpet for global music's biggest names, and fans are more than willing to troop over and enjoy the show.  

PATA Annual Summit 2026

PATA Annual Summit 2026 Monday, May 11, 2026   9:00 AM Wednesday, May 13, 2026   6:00 PM Gyeongju City & Pohang CityGyeongsangbuk-doKorea (ROK)

9th Hospitality Philippines Conference #HPC2026

9th Hospitality Philippines Conference #HPC2026 Philippines’s Leading Event for Hospitality and Tourism September 9-10, 2026 | Marriott Manila   What Comes

6th Hospitality Malaysia Conference #HMC2026

6th Hospitality Malaysia Conference 2026 Join us in Redefining Hospitality in Malaysia, Going Beyond Traditional Boundaries! June 24, 2026 •

AIME 2026: 9–11 February 2026 | Melbourne, Australia

Where the business events world meets in Asia Pacific The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event – AIME – is

Inspiring Women in Travel Awards 2024

Photos from the Inspiring Women in Travel Awards 2024, held at Intercontinental Bangkok

January 2023: Pattaya – GEMS Mining Pool Villa & Resort

THIRSTY THURSDAY PATTAYA JANUARY 2023   PROUDLY SPONSORED BY      

December 2022: Phuket – Angsana Laguna Phuket XANA Beach club

THIRSTY THURSDAY PHUKET DECEMBER 2022   PROUDLY SPONSORED BY    

Maximum Occupancy 2022: Sheraton Grand Sydney, 5-6 April 2022

Maximum Occupancy is Australia’s premier hotel and accommodation industry conference, designed for and by the hotel industry's leaders. Suited for all types of hotel and accommodation providers and sizes, it will feature over 35+ leading industry experts and speakers from around Australia and the globe. This is THE event for any hotelier that wants to achieve maximum occupancy month after month.

How does a night of luxury including breakfast for 2 sound??

In conjunction with Westin Grande Sukhumvit, TD is giving you the opportunity to experience a night of luxury just by answering this one simple question

Scroll to Top