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Langkawi and Port Klang to Host AROYA Cruise: Malaysia’s New Halal, Alcohol-Free Cruise Experience Launches in 2026

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Home » Latest Travel News of Asia » Langkawi and Port Klang to Host AROYA Cruise: Malaysia’s New Halal, Alcohol-Free Cruise Experience Launches in 2026

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

IslamiCruise International Sdn Bhd (ICI) and 26 of its appointed agents have introduced a new cruise experience, AROYA Cruise, a first of its kind halal, alcohol-free and gaming-free holiday at sea. Spearheaded by the government to attract both domestic and foreign tourists, the service will debut with transits from Port Klang to Langkawi on January 30, 2026. Scheduled over a three-day, two-night program, the proposed experience proves to be a refreshing travel choice that fits well with Malaysia’s plan to elevate tourism in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

The AROYA Cruise is targeted to meet the increasing need of the halal tourism market in Malaysia and in the region. The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Tourism Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan and marked an important milestone for the cruise industry, as well as Malaysia’s tourism product. This represents a new era for Malaysia’s tourism industry to have a wider range of offerings for all travellers be it halal, family friendly, culture focused and so on.

A Unique Offering for Halal Tourists

It will be an interesting addition to Malaysia´s tourism industry, especially if you are looking for a halal-friendly vacation. The cruise line provides an unusual alcohol and gambling free atmosphere with on-board restrictions that adhere to Islamic tradition. The hotel is to offer certified halal dining options, prayer rooms and various types of entertainment and leisure amenities tailored for Muslim travellers.

Onboard services will create a calm and secure atmosphere featuring prayer areas, an extensive range of halal meals, and family and individual activities. The cruise is meant to offer a holiday that appeals to relaxation but with a “halal” touch considering Islamic laws. Showcasing a cruise offering that is sensitive to the religious as well as the leisure requirements.

Supporting Malaysia’s Vision for Tourism in 2026

The AROYA Cruise is an integral part of Malaysia’s overall tourism strategy, especially rout its effort to support the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign. The platform is expected to help to position Malaysia as the leading destination for international tourists, highlighting diversity and inclusivity as well as the concept of halal tourism. Bringing a one-of-its-kind cruise experience to the marketplace, IslamiCruise International is also in line with Malaysia’s efforts to target the world’s expanding Muslim market.

We can expect a sharp surge in the number of international guest arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, with the AROYA Cruise leading the way as an attractive showcase. It corresponds harmoniously with the trend of halal tourism, providing a tailor made experience that makes tourists feel at ease and respected throughout the journey. The cooperation with the appointed agents will also enhance the scope of the cruise as these agencies will promote the AROYA Cruise to potential visitors globally.

Cruise Details: What to Expect

The three-day and two-night AROYA Cruise will sail from Port Klang, Malaysia’s most important commercial port to Langkawi, one of the nation’s best vacation spots. Pulau Langkawi is famous for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches and natural beauty – an ideal place to relax and unwind. It’s the perfect place rest and relax as well as listen to the whisper stillness of the island.

Onboard offerings will also include luxury accommodations, halal-certified dining options and entertainment that does not conflict with Islamic values. The cruise seeks to deliver a mix of rest, culture and family joy in a respectful way with dignity.”

The launch was celebrated with a lucky draw designated for all participants of accompanying media, imparting a fun flair to the announcement. AROYA Cruise is priced from RM597 onwards and is affordable for families as well as individuals who want to enjoy something different when it comes to cruising. The travel package is formulated to provide guests with extreme value for both a culturally profound and enriching journey.

A Growing Market for Halal Tourism

The halal travel market is a fast growing segment, as more and more Muslim visitors are looking for holiday experiences that cater to their faith and beliefs. With its multi-ethnic composition and strong halal ethos, Malaysia has become a popular halal tourist destination due to its wealth of cultural experiences and its commitment to ensuring that halal services are readily available for Muslim travelers.

The arrival of AROYA Cruise is going to boost Malaysia’s image as halal tourism base. With the vision to give Muslim vacationers the best cruising experience ever, IslamiCruise International is playing its role in ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of halal tourism.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Halal Tourism in Malaysia

Malaysia wants to become a global leader in halal tourism when AROYA Cruise launches in 2026. The partnership between IslamiCruise International and appointed agents is in support of the country’s long-term tourism objectives. In the face of the industry’s constant transformation, the AROYA Cruise aims to drive the industry forward in the quest to mould the future of tourism in Malaysia with an offering that resonates with an increasing global population of tourists.

(Source: Malaysia Ministry of Tourism Website)



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Asia Travel Pulse

Filipino Travelers Remain Taiwan Top International Visitors in 2025

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4 hours ago

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August 9, 2025

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Home » ASIA » Filipino Travelers Remain Taiwan Top International Visitors in 2025

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August 9, 2025 |

Taiwan, a island of the coast of East Asia, has quietly become the number one vacation place for travelers from the Philippines. The latest numbers from the Taiwan Tourism Bureau prove this. Filipino tourists keep arriving in greater numbers than visitors from any other country, month after month, year after year. This isn’t a flash-in-the-pan success; it’s a long-running tale of nearby neighbors, shared history, and close cultural ties that keep Taiwan at the top of the list for every Filipino vacation planner.

Filipino visitors are among the first to return, giving the island’s tourism a much-welcome boost. For travelers from the Philippines, Taiwan is easy to reach, easy on the wallet, and packed with must-see sights.

Strong Bilateral Relationship Fuels Filipino Tourism to Taiwan

The strong relationship between Taiwan and the Philippines has been instrumental in fostering the continued popularity of Taiwan among Filipino tourists. This connection goes beyond just tourism and spans economic, cultural, and social exchanges. The ease of travel, combined with Taiwan’s cultural offerings, makes it an appealing destination for Filipinos seeking a close yet diverse international getaway.

This convenience is a key factor in why Filipino tourists continue to top Taiwan’s visitor statistics year after year, contributing to Taiwan’s economic and cultural landscape.

Top Attractions for Filipino Tourists in Taiwan

Taiwan is a diverse and multi-faceted destination that caters to various interests, making it ideal for Filipino tourists who are seeking a mix of culture, history, nature, and modern attractions.

This stunning national park, known for its towering marble cliffs and lush green scenery, is a haven for hiking and outdoor activities.

Role of Direct Flights and Convenient Travel in Taiwanese Tourism Growth

The increase in Filipino visitors to Taiwan has been supported by the availability of direct flights between the two countries. These direct connections have significantly lowered the barriers to entry for Filipino travelers, increasing the ease and appeal of traveling to Taiwan.

Furthermore, Taiwan’s efficient and affordable public transportation system makes it easy for tourists to explore the entire island. Filipino visitors can easily hop from one city to another or explore the countryside, further enhancing Taiwan’s attractiveness as a destination.

A Bright Future for Taiwanese Tourism with Filipino Visitors

The post-pandemic recovery in Taiwan’s tourism sector has seen Filipino tourists lead the charge, with the number of Filipino visitors steadily increasing.

In addition to the usual attractions, Taiwan has increasingly diversified its tourism offerings, with new eco-tourism and wellness tourism initiatives gaining traction. These sectors are expected to attract more Filipino tourists seeking unique and sustainable travel experiences. Taiwan’s burgeoning reputation as a gastronomic destination is also helping to draw Filipino food lovers eager to explore Taiwanese cuisine and traditional recipes.

With the continued development of Taiwan’s infrastructure and tourism offerings, Filipino visitors will have even more reasons to make Taiwan their go-to destination. The strong bilateral ties between Taiwan and the Philippines will undoubtedly continue to foster tourism growth, making Taiwan a top choice for Filipinos seeking a memorable and enriching international travel experience.

Taiwan: Slice the World for Filipino Travelers

Taiwan keeps winning the hearts of Filipino tourists now make up the biggest group of international visitors to the island. From friendly hotel welcomes to high-speed trains that take you from crowded streets to quiet temples in a blink, Taiwan knows how to show us a good time.



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Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, And More Demonstrate Strong Growth In Repeat Travel As Agoda Reveals The Favourite Cities That Keep Visitors Coming Back

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7 hours ago

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August 9, 2025

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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, And More Demonstrate Strong Growth In Repeat Travel As Agoda Reveals The Favourite Cities That Keep Visitors Coming Back

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August 9, 2025 |

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and several other countries are experiencing remarkable growth in repeat travel, driven by travelers’ deepening appreciation for their unique cultures, vibrant cities, and diverse experiences. According to Agoda’s latest data, these destinations are home to favorite cities that consistently attract visitors back, highlighting their ability to offer unforgettable stays, rich local attractions, and exceptional hospitality that inspire repeat visits and foster strong traveler loyalty.

Agoda, the prominent digital travel platform, has revealed its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, shining a spotlight on Asian cities that travellers can’t seem to resist coming back to. This ranking draws on booking data collected during the first half of the year, identifying the top destinations with the highest numbers of repeat visitors. For the second year running, Bangkok retains the number one position, followed closely by Tokyo, Seoul, Bali, and Osaka. Each of these cities offers unique attractions and experiences that encourage travellers to return again and again.

Top 10 Most Revisited Destinations

  1. Bangkok, Thailand
  2. Tokyo, Japan
  3. Seoul, South Korea
  4. Bali, Indonesia
  5. Osaka, Japan
  6. Taipei, Taiwan
  7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  8. Da Nang, Vietnam
  9. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
  10. Hong Kong

Source: Agoda Repeat Visitor Ranking

Repeat visits act as a clear indicator of success for tourism boards and destination marketers. When travellers return to the same place multiple times, it reflects well on the destination’s appeal and the effectiveness of promotional campaigns. Many visitors do not just revisit their favourite cities; they also use those return trips to explore less familiar areas within the same country or region.

Agoda’s data shows that a considerable portion of travellers book trips to the same city or country multiple times, underscoring the emotional and experiential bonds that draw people back. The cities topping this list consistently offer vibrant cultures, excellent food, and a wealth of attractions, making them irresistible for those seeking both familiar comforts and new discoveries.

Bangkok Remains Unrivalled

Bangkok has reclaimed the number one position, solidifying its reputation as one of Asia’s most irresistible travel hotspots. Tourists regularly highlight the city’s vibrant street scenes, diverse and delicious food offerings, and abundant cultural treasures. To keep this momentum going, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has stepped up its initiatives by rolling out targeted promotions and collaborating closely with industry stakeholders to elevate the overall visitor experience.

Other regions in Thailand are also drawing in returning visitors. Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai have all seen substantial repeat visitor numbers, highlighting the country’s broad appeal beyond just its capital. To support this growth, Thailand has invested in upgrading its transportation infrastructure. These improvements include expanding domestic airports, enhancing intercity rail networks, and developing urban mass transit systems to make travel more convenient and comfortable for visitors.

Why Do Travellers Keep Coming Back?

Agoda’s surveys help explain why people repeatedly visit these top destinations. The key factors include:

  • Ease of Travel: Destinations that offer straightforward access, good connectivity, and efficient transport systems make returning trips hassle-free.
    Culinary Experiences: The variety and richness of local food greatly influence travellers’ choices. Destinations known for their flavorful and diverse cuisine encourage visitors to come back repeatedly to explore new tastes and enjoy familiar favourites.
  • Convenient Location: Proximity to other destinations or natural attractions often encourages repeat visits as travellers use one city as a base to explore nearby areas.
  • Safety and Cleanliness: Visitors feel more comfortable revisiting places where they perceive high standards of safety and cleanliness.
  • Positive Previous Experiences: Most importantly, travellers return to places where they have already had enjoyable and memorable experiences.

These motivations create strong emotional connections between travellers and destinations, making repeat visits a natural choice.

Traveller Demographics and Trip Purposes

Agoda’s data also reveals interesting patterns related to traveller demographics and the reasons behind their repeat visits. For example, many travellers from countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and India show a strong inclination to revisit their favourite cities. Their reasons vary widely, from seeking adventure and exploring local food scenes to reconnecting with family and friends.

This diversity in purpose highlights that repeat visitors are not a monolithic group. Some return for leisure and relaxation, others for cultural immersion or business, and many combine several motivations. Repeat travel often strengthens these bonds, encouraging travellers to explore new parts of a destination they had not previously experienced.

Loyalty Programs and Traveller Benefits

Alongside these travel trends, Agoda supports frequent travellers with its loyalty programmes. The Agoda VIP programme offers tiered membership levels — Member, VIP Silver, VIP Gold, and VIP Platinum — which travellers can unlock based on the number of bookings they make. As travellers move up the tiers, they gain access to exclusive discounts, special offers, and personalized services.

Additionally, Agoda provides a PointsMAX feature, allowing users to earn airline miles or other loyalty points from partner programmes when they book accommodation through the platform. This integration adds extra value for repeat visitors and encourages loyalty to Agoda’s services, complementing the overall traveller experience.

What This Means for Asian Tourism

The Repeat Visitor Ranking reflects a vibrant and growing interest in Asia’s travel destinations. Cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, and Bali continue to draw visitors with a mix of tradition, modernity, and accessible experiences. For tourism authorities, high repeat visitation rates confirm that their promotional strategies resonate well with travellers, and their investments in infrastructure and services pay off.

Furthermore, these cities act as gateways to their respective regions, inspiring visitors to explore surrounding areas on subsequent trips. With tourism expected to grow steadily in the coming years, destinations that nurture repeat visitors stand to benefit from sustained economic impact and cultural exchange.

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and more are seeing strong repeat travel growth as Agoda reveals that their favorite cities offer unique cultural experiences, excellent hospitality, and vibrant attractions that keep visitors coming back time and again.

Agoda’s Repeat Visitor Ranking offers valuable insights into which Asian cities travellers love enough to revisit repeatedly. The data highlights not only popular destinations but also the qualities that inspire loyalty — from culinary delights and ease of travel to safety and memorable experiences. As tourism boards continue to refine their strategies, repeat visitation will remain a key metric of success, helping cities maintain their place on the traveller’s map for years to come.



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AirAsia ‘Discover ASEAN’ Microsite: A New Era of Travel for Southeast Asia Tourism

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8 hours ago

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August 9, 2025

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Home » AIRLINE NEWS » AirAsia ‘Discover ASEAN’ Microsite: A New Era of Travel for Southeast Asia Tourism

Published on
August 9, 2025 |

AirAsia just launched the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite to give Southeast Asia’s tourism sector a big boost. This online hub is perfect for both international visitors and locals who want a simple way to find and book everything Trip-related. The microsite highlights the region’s rich cultural, historical, and natural attractions, letting travelers quickly plan their perfect getaway with AirAsia.

The initiative fits seamlessly into Southeast Asia’s plan to bounce back from the pandemic and stay on the global map. The microsite isn’t just for booking flights; it’s a one-stop shop for experiences, special offers, and must-see spots across every ASEAN country. By gathering all this info in one place, AirAsia hopes to create a stronger bond between visitors and the one-of-a-kind treasures of Southeast Asia.

The Concept of the ‘Discover ASEAN’ Microsite

AirAsia’s ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite offers a fresh and engaging way for travelers to explore the diverse beauty of Southeast Asia. With detailed destination guides, exclusive promotions, and a plethora of travel tips, the site is a treasure trove of information for those interested in traveling within the ASEAN region.

Facilitating Seamless Travel Planning with AirAsia

A key feature of the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is its seamless integration with AirAsia’s extensive flight network. Travelers can easily book flights directly from the platform, ensuring a streamlined process from trip planning to departure.

Additionally, the microsite features local experiences, excursions, and activities that travelers can add to their itineraries.

This feature allows tourists to not only book flights but also enhance their journeys with locally inspired activities, reinforcing the region’s appeal to both seasoned travelers and newcomers looking for authentic experiences.

Promoting Regional Connectivity and Tourism Recovery

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is launching at a critical time for Southeast Asia’s tourism sector. With borders reopening and international tourism gradually picking up, AirAsia’s initiative comes as a timely solution to help rebuild regional travel and support local economies.

The site’s focus on regional connectivity and promoting travel within ASEAN countries is particularly relevant in this context. By encouraging residents of Southeast Asian nations to explore their neighbors, AirAsia aims to foster a sense of regional pride while simultaneously boosting local tourism economies. This initiative contributes to the broader goal of promoting intra-regional tourism, which will be a critical component of Southeast Asia’s post-pandemic recovery.

Sustainable Tourism Practices and Local Engagement

Sustainability is a central theme in the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite’s design. AirAsia is committed to promoting responsible tourism within the ASEAN region by supporting eco-friendly practices and showcasing destinations that prioritize sustainability. Through the platform, travelers are encouraged to make environmentally conscious decisions, such as opting for eco-tourism experiences, using local transportation options, and staying at sustainable accommodations.

In addition to promoting environmental sustainability, the microsite highlights ways in which travelers can contribute to local communities. Whether through cultural exchange programs, local artisan products, or supporting small businesses, the platform aims to connect travelers with authentic experiences that help foster economic growth in the region’s less-visited areas.

By integrating sustainable travel options and ethical tourism practices, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite hopes to create a more responsible travel ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Southeast Asia.

New Opportunities for ASEAN Tourism

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite represents a bold move by AirAsia to not only attract tourists to the ASEAN region but to also increase regional collaboration among ASEAN member countries. Tourism is a key economic driver for Southeast Asia, and by leveraging AirAsia’s extensive network, the microsite serves as a tool for tourism boards, local businesses, and the hospitality sector to gain greater visibility in international markets.

By promoting secondary cities and emerging destinations, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ initiative helps decongest popular tourist spots, encouraging visitors to explore new places. This effort aligns with the broader goal of sustainable tourism, where the benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed across the region, and local communities are given more opportunities to engage with the global travel market.

What This Means for Southeast Asia Tourism Landscape

Looking forward, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite could significantly reshape Southeast Asia’s tourism landscape. The platform provides an easy-to-use, one-stop solution for travelers, offering all the information and booking tools needed to make travel decisions. It also acts as a powerful marketing tool for ASEAN countries, giving them the ability to showcase their unique attractions to a global audience.

For travelers, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite enhances their understanding of the region’s diversity and helps them find destinations that fit their travel interests, whether they’re looking for cultural experiences, adventure, or relaxation. With this initiative, AirAsia not only promotes tourism in Southeast Asia but also positions itself as a leader in regional travel, making it easier for everyone to discover the wonders of the ASEAN region.

The Future of Southeast Asia Tourism

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite isn’t just another travel website; it’s a smart move to boost tourism across Southeast Asia. With easy-to-navigate travel guides, eco-friendly travel choices, and quick booking tools, AirAsia is paving a smooth and modern path for travelers. As the region heals from the pandemic, tools like the microsite will play a key role in attracting both local and global visitors, keeping Southeast Asia in the spotlight as a must-visit travel hotspot.

For visitors, the road ahead for Southeast Asia tourism sparkles with opportunities. New routes, fresh activities, and deep cultural stories are ready to be embraced. The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is only the opening chapter of a thrilling story about the people and places that make Southeast Asia so special.



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