Made up of various stakeholders in the region, WATO welcomes members operating any tourism-related business as well as coordinating initiatives and activities across different countries.
More than two years after the coronavirus pandemic brought international travel to a halt, most countries in Southeast Asia have reopened their borders with minimal requirements for vaccinated travelers. Millions arrived over the summer, fueled by pent-up wanderlust. The return of these tourists is a relief for an economically battered region — but it comes with its own costs.
