Staycations provide crucial life support for ASEAN tourism

Tourism has long been a key source of income for Southeast Asia, with the majesty of Angkor Wat, the bustling streets of Bangkok and the white sandy beaches of Bali drawing eager holidaymakers from near and far. Sadly, Covid-19 travel restrictions have kept tourists at bay, placing the proud tourism industries of these exotic destinations under severe stress. 

Yet there may still be hope for the tourism sector in the form of internal tourism, which sees locals visit destinations within their own countries, providing some an income lifeline to the regional tourism industry. 

“After all, if you pine that badly to ride up the Eiffel Tower, perhaps the Petronas one is worth another look?” remarks Wellian Wiranto from OCBC Treasury Research.