Asian tourism sees ups, downs in 2nd year of pandemic

13 Sept 14:19 Key points summarised by AI

International tourist arrivals in Asia-Pacific plunged 95% in early 2021 compared to pre-pandemic levels, forcing countries to pivot to domestic tourism.
Domestic travel saw mixed results: India's Kashmir experienced a return of tourists, boosting livelihoods but raising concerns of new outbreaks, while Thailand's Bangkok struggled severely amid a punishing COVID-19 surge.
China's domestic tourism initially rebounded due to strict virus controls, but new Delta variant outbreaks led to renewed flight suspensions and reduced capacities at attractions.
With international travel restricted, local alternatives like 'glamping' and staycations gained popularity in places like Hong Kong, allowing residents to explore their own regions.

Suspected drug couriers killed in Phetchaburi; half a tonne of Ice seized

Yesterday 16:06 Key points summarised by AI

Two suspected drug couriers were killed in a shootout with narcotics officers in Phetchaburi province.
Authorities seized approximately half a tonne of crystal methamphetamine, also known as Ice, during the operation.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night after officers tracked a network suspected of transporting large quantities of drugs to southern Thailand.
The suspects, identified as Chattharin and Rungarun, both 27, opened fire when confronted by officers, who returned fire, resulting in their deaths.