Japan Raises Visa Fees By Up To 400% For The First Time Since 1978

For the first time in nearly five decades, Japan is shaking up its travel and immigration policies with a massive fee increase. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Japanese government will implement a fivefold (400%) hike on tourist and entry visas.

This marks the country’s first adjustment to its visa fee structure since 1978—an era when the original Star Wars sequel was still in production. If you are planning a trip or managing travel logistics to Japan, here is everything you need to know about who is affected, how much it will cost, and why the sudden change is happening.

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The New Fee Breakdown

The approved Cabinet decision introduces a stark jump from the decades-old flat rates. The fees are shifting as follows:

Visa Type	Old Fee	New Fee (Effective July 1, 2026)
Single-Entry Visa	¥3,000 (approx. $18)	¥15,000 (approx. $93)
Multiple-Entry Visa	¥6,000 (approx. $37)	¥30,000 (approx. $186)

Note: The new rates apply to all visa applications submitted on or after July 1, 2026. If an application was filed before this cutoff date, it will still be processed under the older, lower fee structure.

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Who Has to Pay? (And Who Escapes It)

The fee overhaul specifically targets travelers from the more than 100 nations that do not currently hold a visa-waiver agreement with Japan.

• Affected Travelers: Major inbound tourism and business markets—including China, Vietnam, and the Philippines—will bear the brunt of the new ticket price.
• The Indian Exception: Interestingly, while Indian nationals require a pre-arrival visa, the Embassy of Japan in India has confirmed they will continue to charge a reciprocal rate of Rs 500 (plus standard VFS service fees), effectively insulating Indian travelers from the global hike.
• Visa-Exempt Nations: Passport holders from about 70 countries—including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most of Western Europe—are completely unaffected for short-term tourism. Because these citizens enjoy up to 90 days of visa-free entry, they will pay nothing upfront.

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Why the Drastic Hike Now?

According to Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, the adjustment is long overdue. The government cited forty-eight years of unchecked inflation, shifting exchange rates, and a historic weakening of the Japanese yen as the primary factors rendering the 1978 pricing obsolete.

Furthermore, the hike reflects a broader legislative push by the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to actively rebalance how Japan manages its record-breaking foreign influx. Beyond short-term visas, separate legislation passing earlier this year is set to steeply raise administrative costs for long-term expats, students, and permanent residency applicants by the end of the fiscal year.

Officials don't expect the tourist visa increase to deter the millions of travelers flocking to Tokyo and Kyoto each month, pointing out that the new rates align closely with standard visa processing fees across Western Europe and the United States.

Delta Air Lines Is Planning a Return to Singapore: What Travelers Need To Know

Delta Air Lines is preparing to make a significant move in the transpacific market: a return to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN).

After years of scaling back its footprint across the Pacific and focusing heavily on transatlantic networks, Delta leadership has confirmed plans to re-enter Southeast Asia’s premier financial hub. The move signals a broader shift in Delta’s global long-haul strategy, directly challenging legacy competitors on some of the world's most lucrative corporate routes.

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A Strategic Pivot Toward Asia

For years, Delta’s long-haul expansion has leaned heavily into Europe. However, airline executives have noted that the European market is largely saturated, leading Delta to look across the Pacific for future growth.

Delta last operated scheduled passenger flights to Singapore in September 2019, which flew as an extension from its historic hub at Tokyo Narita (NRT). With the dismantling of the old Narita scissors-hub inherited from Northwest Airlines, Delta pivoted to nonstop routes from the U.S. West Coast and connecting partnerships through Seoul Incheon (ICN) with joint-venture partner Korean Air.

Now, with a stronger West Coast footprint and new long-range widebody aircraft joining the fleet, Delta is ready to put its own metal back into Singapore.

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Where Will Delta Fly From?

While official schedules and exact start dates are pending formal route filings, route analysts and leadership comments point to key West Coast hubs:

• Seattle-Tacoma (SEA): Geographically positioned as the fastest U.S. gateway to Asia, Seattle is viewed as the prime candidate for nonstop transpacific service into Singapore.
• Fleet Deployment: The ultra-long-haul route will rely on Delta’s flagship widebody aircraft—the Airbus A350-900 and incoming Airbus A350-1000—featuring premium-heavy configurations including Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Comfort+, and Main Cabin.

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Competing in a Crowded Pacific Sky

Delta's return to Singapore places it in head-to-head competition with two major players:

1. United Airlines: The sole U.S. carrier currently offering nonstop flights between the U.S. mainland (San Francisco) and Singapore.
2. Singapore Airlines: The Star Alliance carrier known for its acclaimed service and ultra-long-range nonstops to Newark, New York (JFK), Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle.

By re-entering Singapore, Delta aims to capture corporate travel demand and give SkyMiles members direct redemption opportunities into Southeast Asia without relying solely on connecting partners.

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What’s Next?

Delta’s return to Singapore is part of a larger Pacific resurgence that includes route restarts and expansions across Hong Kong, Manila, and Tokyo. Expect official route announcements, schedules, and ticket availability as aircraft delivery timelines are finalized.

A World-Class Fountain Attraction Comes To Odaiba

On March 28, the world-class fountain attraction “Tokyo Aqua Symphony” made its debut in the Odaiba bay area. Located on Tokyo Bay, this facility features a dynamic fountain that reaches up to 150 meters in height, along with a 250-meter-wide fountain inspired by Somei-Yoshino cherry blossoms, the official flower of Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking sensory experience where water, light, and sound harmonize perfectly. The fountain show, synchronized with music and illuminations, is performed 10 times daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Set against the stunning backdrop of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower, this new local landmark is attracting widespread attention as it reshapes the iconic Tokyo Bay area skyline.

Travelore Tips: Thailand Has The Most Confusing Alcohol Law In the World, Tourists Are Totally Lost

Landing in Bangkok after a long flight and heading straight to a convenience store sounds like a simple travel move. In Thailand, that tiny errand can turn confusing fast, because a cashier may refuse a bottle while a nearby hotel bar is still serving. That gap between expectation and reality is exactly why so many visitors feel blindsided.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Recent reporting and official notices show the rules changed quickly, and not every place follows the same timetable. There is no official global ranking that proves this is the single most confusing booze system on Earth, so the headline works as travel drama, not legal science. Still, the frustration is real, especially when daily retail hours, venue exemptions, Buddhist holy day limits, and election shutdowns overlap during a short vacation. For a first-time visitor, the setup can feel like a maze with neon signs and surprise checkpoints. That is exactly what makes this story so slideshow-friendly.

1. Why Visitors Feel Tricked Even When Nobody Is Breaking Any Rule

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Most people expect one country to have one clear answer for a basic question like, “Can I buy a drink right now?” Thailand often gives different answers depending on the venue type, the date, and the hour. That does not always mean poor enforcement. In many cases, it means separate legal categories are operating exactly as written.

Travelers describe the experience as confusing even after staff explain it politely. A rejected purchase at a shop can happen on the same evening that a registered hotel or licensed nightlife spot is still pouring. From the customer side, it looks random. From the legal side, it is a classification issue.

2. The Timing Changed Fast, So Older Advice Is Already Outdated

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

A major reason for the chaos is how quickly the framework shifted in 2025. Thailand’s Public Relations Department said that, effective June 27, 2025, three venue types could sell 24 hours a day, while alcohol sales outside those exemptions still followed restricted daily windows at that stage. Those exempt locations were international airport passenger areas, licensed entertainment venues, and hotels registered under the Hotel Act.

Then another big change landed in December 2025. AP reported that Thailand lifted the long-standing 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. retail blackout on a 180-day trial, allowing purchases from 11 a.m. until midnight, and noted the change was made official via publication in the Royal Gazette. Anyone relying on an older TikTok, blog, or screenshot could easily be working with yesterday’s map.

3. The Same City Can Give Two Opposite Answers at 3 p.m.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

This is the part that melts travel group chats. A convenience chain may refuse a sale, while a hotel lounge or licensed club can legally operate under an exemption. Thailand’s PRD described special treatment for airports, registered hotels, and entertainment venues under the updated rules.

Picture the scene for a slide image: bright shelves, cold bottles, and a “not now” response at one counter, followed by a rooftop table with cocktails a little later. Nothing magical happened between those moments. The venue category changed, and that changes what is allowed. For newcomers, that can feel like the city is trolling them.

4. Buddhist Holy Days Can Suddenly Change the Vibe of an Entire Night

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Holiday timing is another trap for people planning a party-heavy itinerary. The Nation Thailand’s February 2026 explainer says sales remain prohibited on five major Buddhist observances: Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, Khao Phansa Day, and Ok Phansa Day. That means a traveler can arrive in a famous nightlife destination and still run into a dry stretch.

The same report also lays out why mixed signals keep happening: it lists exceptions for international airport passenger terminals, hotels, entertainment venues, certain tourist-area establishments resembling entertainment venues, and approved large event sites with screening measures. In plain travel language, one district may feel quiet while another keeps moving. Great photos can come from both scenes, but the contrast catches people off guard.

5. Election Weekends Create the Kind of Surprise That Ruins Plans Fast

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Reuters documented a version of this that sounds almost unreal to first-time guests. Under Thai law, Reuters reported, it is illegal to sell, pay for, or give away alcoholic drinks during two 24-hour windows linked to voting. In the February 2026 election cycle, Reuters said the second restricted period began at 6 p.m. on February 7, 2026, ahead of the general election on February 8, 2026.

That timing can hit right in the middle of peak travel expectations. Reuters described Bangkok and Phuket operators dealing with confused overseas customers, posted notices, and sharp revenue drops during those blackout periods. For someone who booked a beach weekend or birthday trip, the rule can feel like a plot twist dropped mid-scene. Local businesses may explain it clearly, but the surprise still lands hard.

6. The Smartest Move Is To Plan Your Night Like a Mini Event Checklist

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Even after the afternoon retail ban was lifted on trial, the legal clock still does not run the same way everywhere. AP reported that retail purchases can run until midnight, while patrons in nightlife venues may continue drinking until 1 a.m. That distinction between buying and consuming is easy to miss after a long day out. It is also one of the biggest sources of “but they served us there” arguments.

A better strategy is simple and very effective. Check the date for voting periods and major Buddhist observances, then confirm the same-day details with your hotel, bar, or restaurant before heading out. Reuters also noted that some operators posted signs and proactively explained the restrictions to reduce confusion. Five minutes of planning can save an entire evening.

https://guessingheadlights.com/contributor/neda-mrakovic/

"Visit Bangkok" Launches As The Definitive Digital Gateway To One Of The World’s Favorite Cities

As one of the world’s premier travel destination, Bangkok continues to captivate hearts by masterfully blending its golden heritage with a pulse of modern innovation. To bring this vibrant soul closer to travelers worldwide, The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Tourism Division has officially launched "Visit Bangkok", the city’s premier tourism gateway, offering an authentic and local perspective on the Thai capital.

Moving beyond traditional travel guides, "Visit Bangkok" is designed to be a reliable digital companion for the modern explorer. By utilizing five distinct digital platforms, this initiative provides a curated look into the city’s lifestyle, ensuring that every visitor—whether a first-timer or a seasoned traveler—can find a story that resonates with their personal journey.

Experience Bangkok Through Four Unique Lenses:

The Global Culinary Capital: From the aromatic sizzle of legendary street food stalls to Michelin-starred dining experiences overlooking the skyline, discover why Bangkok remains the ultimate "Foodie Paradise."

The Harmony of Traditions: Experience the timeless elegance of shimmering temples standing in perfect contrast with futuristic shopping hubs and avant-garde creative spaces. Asia’s Beating Heart for Events: Bangkok serves as a front-row seat to world-class entertainment, from the adrenaline of Muay Thai to global music festivals and the charm of national celebrations like Songkran and Loy Krathong.

An Ever-Evolving Discovery: This city never sleeps. Journey beyond the typical tourist spots to find hidden neighborhoods, secret cafes, and pop-up events that keep the city’s energy fresh and exciting every single day.

Whether planning a detailed itinerary or seeking spontaneous adventure, travelers can now stay connected with the pulse of the city through these five official creative channels:

Website: https://visit.bangkok.go.th

Facebook: VisitBangkok

TikTok: VisitBangkok

Instagram: visitbangkok_official

YouTube: visitbangkok_official

Bangkok is calling, and there is always a new story waiting to be found. Join the journey and discover why this metropolis remains the world’s favorite destination.

Vietnam Will Build The Largest Stadium In The World Called Trong Dong With A Capacity Of Over 130,000 People

The construction of what will be the world's largest stadium in terms of spectator capacity has begun, aiming to become a new landmark in the region.

Vietnam will become the country with the largest stadium in the world. The new stadium, which is currently under construction, will be able to accommodate 135,000 people, surpassing North Korea's Rungrado, which is currently the largest stadium in the world, by five thousand seats.

The world's largest new stadium is expected to be completed by 2028, which is the tentative inauguration date. The new stadium will be called Trong Dong and will feature a retractable roof, allowing it to host not only sports events but also community and artistic activities throughout the year.

This stadium is also seen as Vietnam's opportunity to become a new host for high-performance international events, whether by FIFA, AFC, or the Olympic Council, as it is being built to become a regional benchmark and meets all the strict standards that these organizations require for stadiums to host their events.

At this moment, the top 3 largest stadiums in the world are the Rungrado in North Korea with a capacity of 130,000 spectators, followed by the Grand Stade Hassan II in Morocco, which is vying to host the 2030 World Cup and can accommodate 120,000 people, and finally, the Michigan Stadium with a capacity of approximately 107,000 people.

by Juan Cruz Lara Pérez

Shanghai Launches "Spring Festival Gift Packs" With Discounts And Cultural Experiences For The Chinese Lunar New Year

As the Year of the Horse approaches, Shanghai is rolling out a series of "Spring Festival Gift Packs" designed to make it easier and more enjoyable for residents and visitors to experience the city during the holiday period. The initiative, led by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, features discounted tickets, themed activities, and cultural offerings across 60 popular city attractions.

The gift packs are part of Shanghai's broader push to boost festive tourism and encourage people to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in the city. By combining discounted admission, zodiac-themed promotions, and integrated tour packages, the program seeks to provide a wide range of affordable options tailored to different visitor groups.

Highlights of the Spring Festival Gift Packs include:

Attraction Discounts : Participating scenic spots are offering tickets at up to 50% off, along with special promotions based on the Chinese zodiac and combo passes, making sightseeing more affordable for families, tourists, and locals alike.

Cultural & Festive Activities : The discounts are complemented by a rich lineup of supporting events, including intangible cultural heritage performances, interactive pet-themed activities for the Chinese Lunar New Year, traditional market fairs, and bazaars featuring China-chic trends -- all crafted to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Integrated Experience Packages : Many venues are bundling accommodation with entry tickets or themed tours, creating convenient and cost-effective ways to explore Shanghai during the holiday period.

Themed Tourism Products : Travel agencies and hotels have curated itineraries with a "Spring Festival vibe" and activities for "Spring Celebration" that cover family-friendly, cultural, and rural leisure experiences, providing multiple options for holiday outings.

The gift packs initiative aligns with the ongoing "Discover Shanghai" Tourism Guide Super Competition, which has inspired practical and innovative tour recommendations now being developed into actual tourism products. The competition's winning guides are expected to be widely used by visitors during the Spring Festival.

Industry observers note that Shanghai continues to strengthen its appeal as a winter destination by combining affordability with cultural depth. The Spring Festival Gift Packs not only make travel more economical but also immerse visitors in the local customs and vibrant spirit of Shanghai during the most important traditional holiday in China.

The offers will be available throughout the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday period, with detailed information accessible through official tourism platforms such as "Hu Xiaoyou" and Trip.com. Through this Spring Festival Gift Packs Initiative, Shanghai demonstrates its commitment to creating a welcoming, dynamic, and visitor-friendly holiday environment, inviting everyone to enjoy a memorable and affordable Chinese Lunar New Year in the city.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism

Inside Tokyo Disneyland’s Massive $461 Milllion Space Mountain Overhaul

If you’ve visited Tokyo Disneyland recently, you may have noticed a giant, construction-walled void where a legendary landmark once stood. The original Space Mountain, a cornerstone of the park since its 1983 opening, is officially a memory—but what’s coming in its place is nothing short of a galactic revolution.

The Oriental Land Company (OLC) has officially upped the ante, confirming a staggering ¥70.5 billion (~$461 million) investment for a ground-up rebuild of the attraction and its surrounding plaza.

A Total Transformation (2024–2027)

Unlike typical theme park renovations that swap out track or add digital screens, OLC opted for the "total replacement" strategy:

Complete Demolition: Following its permanent closure on July 31, 2024, the original show building was entirely dismantled to make way for a brand-new structure.

Next-Gen Coaster: While it remains an indoor roller coaster, the "Space Mountain (2027)" project will feature enhanced performance, cutting-edge special effects, and a more emotional storyline that connects guests to Planet Earth.

The "Earthrise" Rumor: While OLC still officially lists the project by its year, internal rumors and trademarks suggest the new title may be "Space Mountain Earthrise".

The Tomorrowland Plaza: Harmony with Nature

The $461 million price tag isn’t just for the ride. A massive new Tomorrowland Plaza is being constructed to replace the previous concrete expanse.

Day & Night Atmosphere: By day, the plaza will be a lush space where "humans and nature are in harmony". By night, it will transform into a "spectacular world of light and soundscapes".

Modern Aesthetic: Concept art reveals a sleek, curved silhouette for the new mountain, drawing design inspiration from the futuristic, organic lines seen in Shanghai Disneyland’s Tomorrowland.

Bonus Content: Sugar Rush is Coming!

The Space Mountain rebuild is the centerpiece of a wider Tomorrowland revitalisation. In Spring 2027, a brand-new Wreck-It Ralph interactive shooting attraction will debut, replacing Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters.

The Mission: Guests will team up with Ralph and Vanellope to save the Sugar Rush video game from "Sugar Bugs" created by King Candy.

Investment: This project represents an additional ¥29.5 billion (~$193 million), bringing the total Tomorrowland investment to over $650 million.

Are you planning a trip for the 2027 grand opening? You can stay updated on construction progress and official opening dates through the Tokyo Disney Resort Official Website at: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/tdl.html

The World Has A New Largest City, Jakarta

Tokyo has lost its status as the world’s largest city, with another sprawling Asian metropolis, Indonesia's vast capital Jakarta, knocking it off the top spot.

View of Jakarta, the major port and capital city of Indonesia

This milestone marks the first time in decades that the Japanese capital has not been the most populous center on Earth, highlighting rapid urban growth in Asia and a changing landscape of megacities worldwide.

For the U.S., these findings offer important insights into future urbanization trends, infrastructure challenges, and global economic shifts.

The United Nations’ World Urbanization Prospects 2025 report signals a significant change in global urban dynamics: Jakarta, Indonesia with 42 million residents, has overtaken Tokyo as the world’s most populous city.

Dhaka, Bangladesh, follows close behind with almost 40 million, while Tokyo’s population stands at 33 million, putting it in third place now.

Cairo remains the only non-Asian city among the top 10.

According to the report, released by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, urbanization has reshaped the global population landscape.

Cities now house 45 percent of the world’s 8.2 billion people, up from just 20 percent in 1950.

The study found a quadrupling in the number of megacities—urban areas with 10 million or more inhabitants—from eight in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with 19 of those in Asia.

The report points to significant growth for cities like Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Hajipur (India), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), all projected to surpass the 10 million threshold by 2050, when the number of megacities worldwide is expected to reach 37.

While megacities draw most of the attention, small and medium-sized cities—defined as those with under 1 million residents—continue to outnumber and outpace megacities in population and growth, especially in Africa and Asia.

Of the 12,000 cities analyzed, 96 percent have fewer than 1 million inhabitants.

Top 10 Most Populous Cities

According to the U.N. report, nine of the 10 most populous cities in the world are in Asia, although two of them, Seoul and Tokyo, are expected to witness population declines by 2050. The top 10 largest cities in the world by population are:

1. Jakarta

2. Dhaka

3. Tokyo

4. New Delhi

5. Shanghai

6. Guangzhou

7. Cairo

8. Manila

9. Kolkata

10.Seoul

São Paulo, Mexico City, Mumbai, Beijing and Osaka were all knocked out of the top 10.

United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua said: “Urbanization is a defining force of our time. When managed inclusively and strategically, it can unlock transformative pathways for climate action, economic growth, and social equity.” He added, “To achieve balanced territorial development, countries must adopt integrated national policies that align housing, land use, mobility, and public services across urban and rural areas.”

Globally, the number of cities is projected to exceed 15,000 by 2050, with most having populations below 250,000.

While rural communities continue to shrink except in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, small and medium-sized cities are expected to drive the next wave of global urbanization, spurring both opportunities and challenges in infrastructure, housing, and climate adaptation.

By Sam Stevenson

World's Tallest Bridge Opens Glass Cafe At A Staggering 2,600 Feet In The Air

China’s Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, which opened to traffic on Sept. 28, is opening a glass cafe 800 meters (2,624 feet) in the air called Interstellar Coffee.

Cafe at the top of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in China's Guizhou province. Credit : Yang Wenbin/Xinhua via Getty

According the Guizhou Daily Tianyan News, the cafe, which is perched atop one of the towers, will have two floors and a 360-degree unobstructed view thanks to its glass walls. It will feature Captain George Coffee with plans to expand its selection in coming months.

Visitors will reach the dizzying height via a glass elevator, which can hit the top in under one minute. There’s also a 1,900-foot high glass walkway for visitors, and tourists will also get the chance to bungee jump off the massive bridge.

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is located in Southern China over the Beipan River and has become the tallest bridge in the world. It cut transit time in the Guizhou province from two hours to two minutes, NBC News reported, citing local officials.

At 4,600 feet in length, it also sets the record for the world’s longest bridge in a mountainous region, according to NBC News.

Bridge construction in China has increased as a part of the Chinese government’s war on poverty, the outlet previously reported. The Guizhou province now has 32,000 bridges that have been completed or are under construction compared to less than 3,000 in the 1980s.

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge opened after three years and eight months of construction and now connects two major tourist areas in the region.

https://people.com/rachel-mcrady-8752463

Hong Kong’s Zero-Covid Approach Meets Growing Frustration

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong residents expressed growing frustration Thursday after new, tighter coronavirus restrictions went into effect, imposed by city leaders in line with Beijing’s zero-COVID policy.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam ordered new strict measures to take effect Thursday as the highly-contagious omicron variant of the virus causes record daily cases.

That includes limiting public gatherings to two people and private ones to members of only two households. Places of worship, hair salons and other businesses were ordered to close.

Such measures are part of Hong Kong’s effort to align itself with mainland China’s “zero-COVID” policy, which aims to totally stamp out outbreaks, even as infection numbers continue to rise and other countries shift their approach to living with the virus.

Outside a vaccination center in the Sai Wan Ho area on Thursday, retiree Ken Wong waited in a long line to get his first shot so that he would qualify for a “vaccine pass” when it’s available.

“This is insane,” the 70-year-old said. “There is no way to reach zero cases. If we are going to achieve zero cases it would mean everyone’s wallet will become empty because a lot of people will be out of work and have no income.”

The latest measures will remain until at least Feb. 24, when the vaccine pass will be rolled out, allowing only vaccinated people to visit places like shopping malls and supermarkets.

Newly confirmed cases fell slightly on Thursday to under 1,000 after hitting a daily record 1,161 on Wednesday, Hong Kong health authorities reported. Overall, Hong Kong has seen only about 18,500 cases of COVID-19 and 215 deaths among its population of some 7.5 million.

Opponents of the zero-COVID approach contend that with nearly 65% of the population fully vaccinated and signs the omicron variant of the virus is less severe for those with some immunity, that it is time to change course.

“The government is having difficulties adopting a new strategy which will both align with mainland China but also serve the interests and adapt to the situation in Hong Kong,” said Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a professor of political science at the Hong Kong Baptist University.

“Nothing can be decided without Beijing’s green light, and the local authorities don’t want to take any chance with that.”

Hong Kong, a former British colony, was handed over to communist-ruled China in 1997. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, the territory was to retain its own political, social and financial institutions for 50 years after being transferred from British rule.

But China has been tightening its control, stamping out political opposition and curtailing free speech. It imposed a sweeping National Security Law following anti-government protests in 2019, resulting in the imprisonment, intimidation and exile of most opposition voices.

There’s a practical reason for complying with zero-COVID policies — to facilitate travel between Hong Kong and the mainland under less stringent quarantine rules than the three weeks or more required of all foreigners arriving in the Chinese mainland.

Beijing will not let Hong Kong’s borders to the mainland be reopened unless the city reaches and maintains zero-COVID.

This week, Beijing officials and Chinese state media warned Hong Kong against any changes, saying that adopting a “living with the virus” policy would overwhelm its medical systems, the newspaper South China Morning Post reported.

In the upscale Discovery Bay neighborhood on mountainous Lantau island, home to many foreigners, all residents were ordered tested this week after authorities found traces of the virus in the sewage.

Sewage testing is a common practice in Hong Kong, but government demands for entire communities to be tested if the virus is detected are stretching the patience of residents enduring long lines at testing centers.

“The approach is obviously not working,” said Ivan Serrano, a 42-year-old from Spain who had just been tested with his son.

“We can see that other countries with different approaches — apparently the situation currently is better and here, it just got worse.”

A Traveler’s Checklist For Thailand’s Phuket Sandbox Program

PHUKET, Thailand (AP) — Starting July 1, Thailand will welcome back international visitors — as long as they are vaccinated — to its famous southern resort island of Phuket without having to be cooped up in a hotel room for a 14-day quarantine.

Those planning to see the rest of Thailand must stay a minimum of two weeks during which they will be free to roam the island, where preparations include having a major proportion of the local population inoculated for COVID-19. Those passing through en route to other countries can book shorter stays.

After a stay of 14 days or more, visitors will be able to travel relatively freely elsewhere in Thailand — subject to the same health restrictions as Thai travelers.

The “Phuket sandbox” program is open to visitors from 63 countries and three territories rated by Thailand as low or medium risk for COVID-19. Requirements beyond nationality are more complicated and involve a fair amount of paperwork, in addition to being subject to changes.

The most up-to-date and detailed information will generally be available from the website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, at www.tatnews.org, or from the nearest Thai Embassy.

Visas for stays of up to 30 days are not necessary for many nationalities. Airlines with direct flights to Phuket include Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, El Al and Singapore Airlines.

The basic requirements before departure for Phuket include:

— Must have been staying in approved home country for at least 21 days before departure.

— Must obtain a Certificate of Entry from a Thai embassy or consulate.

— Must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. (Travelers under 18 years old accompanied by a parent or guardian are exempted from the need to be vaccinated.)

— Must have a negative RT-PCR test for COVID-19 within 72 hours of departure. (Also required for travelers under 18 years old)

— Must have a minimum $100,000 medical insurance policy covering COVID-19 treatment.

Upon arrival:

— Must have an RT-PCR test for COVID-19 at their own expense on the day of arrival, the sixth or seventh day of stay and the 12th or 13th day.

— Must stay for 14 days at approved “SHA+” hotels in order to travel onwards in Thailand. The booking must be confirmed before arrival. SHA+ certifies safety and health standards including having at least 70% of staff vaccinated for COVID-19.

— Must install Thailand Plus and Morchana apps, to track health and location, respectively.

— Must have evidence of negative COVID-19 test results over the 14-day stay for onward travel to other parts of Thailand.

June 2021 In Tokyo

June is the rainy season in Tokyo. It rains so frequently just before the intense summer heat and just prior to the gentle cool down of autumn that Japan is often said to have six seasons instead of four. In fact, there are more than 400 words that express rain in Japanese -- depending on when and how it rains. Harusame is the rain that falls in spring. Samidare is the rain that falls in May, Tsuyu refers to the “rainy season” in June. Konukaame is the fine mist that fills the air in spring, but the same misty rain changes its name to Kirisame when it falls in autumn. Some might find rain a deterrent, but in fact, the warm sprinkles clear the air and give us a chance to see the subtleties of the city. For example, Tokyo Station reflected in the puddles on the pavement or the hydrangea that changes hues ever so delicately, as the moist droplets kiss its petals.

Where to see hydrangea in Tokyo

While Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, its other seasonal flowers deserve as much respect. June is the "season of Hydrangea," blooming in blue, white, fuchsia and purple. Hydrangeas are indigenous to Japan but were experimented with and improved upon by Philipp Franz von Siebold, a 19th Century German doctor and naturalist, who even named the Otaksa variety of hydrangea after his Japanese common law wife.

Hakusan Shrine in Bunkyo Ward, where the University of Tokyo is located: About 3000 hydrangeas are planted here! It is also renowned for the annual hydrangea festival, where on weekends during the celebration, there are stalls selling hydrangea potted plants. Unfortunately, the festival was canceled in 2021.

Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple in Hino City, western Tokyo: A smaller-than-usual Hydrangea Festival is being held here even in 2021, until June 30. Additionally, during June, hydrangeas can be found along the streets of Tokyo, where they are for sale, on display, or just in bloom and are of course best viewed in the rain.

Since 1969, when the Stonewall riots broke out in the US, LGBT movements have been swelling worldwide. In the US in 2000, President Bill Clinton declared June "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month," and in 2009 President Barack Obama declared June "LGBT Pride Month." In 2019, large-scale pride parades were held across the United States to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Stonewall. At the same time, the activities of Tokyo Rainbow Pride (TRP) were also gaining more attention. In 2021, their annual event during Japan’s Golden Week holiday, April 24-May 5, was online and virtual, but additional festivities have followed. In June, the highlights of the movie "# Pride at Home 2021" and a speaking event (Japanese only) "Thinking about diverse families," are being distributed on the TRP channel. In addition, under the theme of "Equality and Inclusiveness," the "W1SH RIBBON" campaign is underway at TOKYO SKYTREE, the tallest free-standing tower in the world, and the symbol of Tokyo. The campaign aims to connect the people of the world with ribbons, regardless of gender or nationality. They are also promoting and distributing a music video produced by international photographer Leslie Kee.