Issue No. 5 | Thursday 24 April 2026 Your insider guide to Southeast Asia asiaunmasked.com Your Week in Southeast Asia This week the region produced a mix of wins and warnings worth paying attention to. Two bear cubs were pulled from a Facebook listing in Laos within 24 hours of it going live – a
This week: Borneo’s first eco-certified resort opens bookings, Thailand’s tourist fee edges closer, flying to Southeast Asia just got more expensive, and a record pangolin bust in Jakarta. Plus what’s on across the region through April.
Two new residency pathways make Malaysia an increasingly practical option for investors, business professionals, and anyone seeking long-term stability without administrative headaches. Long-term residency in Southeast Asia has traditionally meant choosing between limited options: tourist visas with constant renewal cycles, employment visas tied to specific companies, or expensive premium schemes with unclear benefits. For investors,
Malaysia claims nine of Southeast Asia’s top ten hiking trails whilst pioneering eco-friendly adventure tourism that benefits local communities Malaysia has emerged as Southeast Asia’s unexpected champion of sustainable hiking tourism, claiming nine of the ten best hiking trails in the region and recently being named the safest country in Asia for travellers seeking peace
Eleven countries, one region, and the customs that actually matter once you’re on the ground I once watched a local outside Bangkok’s Grand Palace tap a traveller’s arm, not to scold them, but to point gently at their bare shoulders before they reached the gate. They hadn’t known. The local wasn’t annoyed, just letting them
Discover Malaysia’s perfect blend of cultural heritage and sustainable luxury. From Kuala Lumpur’s iconic skyline to Penang’s UNESCO streets – the ultimate guide to responsible luxury travel. After exploring Southeast Asia’s capitals for almost three decades, I’ve rarely encountered a destination that balances cultural authenticity with genuine luxury as masterfully as Malaysia. From the colonial
From towering skyscrapers to sizzling street food, Malaysia’s vibrant capital offers a feast for the senses that will leave you enchanted and eager to explore more. Kuala Lumpur (or KL, as locals affectionately call it) is a city of astonishing contrasts that seamlessly blends cosmopolitan flair with rich tradition. Often overlooked in favour of its
Why Melaka’s Latest Hotel Is Perfect for Your Next Malaysian Adventure As someone who’s wandered through the UNESCO-listed streets of Melaka, I can tell you there’s something magical about this city. From its vividly painted shophouses to the lingering aroma of satay skewers sizzling at Jonker Street’s night market, Melaka is a living tapestry of
Explore Malaysia’s vibrant gastronomic journey with Michelin stars, Bib Gourmand gems, and a green star milestone. When it comes to culinary destinations, Malaysia is stirring up excitement. The 2025 Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang has just been unveiled, featuring 143 culinary establishments across its coveted lists. From street food sensations to fine dining innovators,
Experience the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Cambodia with more direct flights from Malaysia. Good news for travelers seeking to explore the wonders of Cambodia! The number of direct flights between Malaysia and Cambodia is set to increase, making it easier than ever to visit this captivating Southeast Asian destination. With restored and new
They Were Feeding Wild Sharks to Give Tourists Their Insta Moment. Bohol Just Put a Stop to It.
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