From wild kittens in Thailand to camera traps in India: See latest from Asia
The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
In the forests, on top of mountains and along the beaches of Asia, colorful and rare creatures are discovered in their natural habitat.
It's one of the most diverse regions of the world. Take a look at some recent stories from the continent:
Predator's adorable kittens found abandoned in Thailand — then came rescue
In southwestern Thailand, three leopard cat kittens were found abandoned and weak, prompting a rescue by wildlife officials. The kittens were taken to the Kathu Wildlife Sanctuary for rehabilitation, with the goal of eventually returning them to the wild. Leopard cats, resembling housecats but with longer legs and spotted coats, are protected in Thailand and face threats from habitat loss and poaching. | Published May 2 | Read More |
Camera traps spot rare vibrant creature in India forest. 'Promising haven'
In the forests of eastern India, camera traps set by the NGO ENFOGAL captured images of the rare Blyth's tragopan, a vulnerable bird species. This discovery highlights Shirui as a promising haven for bird enthusiasts, showcasing the area's rich biodiversity. The Blyth's tragopan, with its vibrant colors, faces threats from hunting and habitat destruction. | Published May 7 | Read More |
Rare creature named after 'hundred-eyed giant' spotted showing off at Thai park
In Thailand's Kathun Wildlife Sanctuary, a trail camera captured a male great argus pheasant performing a remarkable courtship display. This at-risk species, named after a 'hundred-eyed giant' due to its eye-spotted feathers, is a positive sign for the sanctuary's conservation efforts. The great argus' population is declining, making such sightings significant for wildlife officials. | Published May 14 | Read More |
Tick-infested creature bites researcher in Papua New Guinea. It's a new species
On Sudest Island, Papua New Guinea, a new species of snake named Aspidomorphus dimorphus was discovered after biting a researcher. This snake, with its unique bimodal color pattern, was identified as distinct from other species in the region. | Published May 2 | Read More |
'Fighting' fish that survives drought by hiding in the mud is new rare species
In Sumatra, researchers identified a new species of betta fish called Betta iaspis, found in a forest peat swamp. This fish, with its reddish-brown head and iridescent blue patches, survives droughts by hiding in moist mud. Researchers recommend the species be listed as critically endangered due to its limited habitat threatened by human activities. | Published May 16 | Read More |
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5 hours ago
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Thailand's Hospitality Market Forecast to Reach USD 1.98 Billion by 2030 - Accor, InterContinental Hotels Group, Centara Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group, and Hyatt Dominate the Fragmented Industry
Dublin, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Hospitality Industry in Thailand - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts (2025-2030)" report has been added to Hospitality Industry In Thailand Market size is estimated at USD 1.5 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.98 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.67% during the forecast period (2025-2030).Driven by its vibrant tourism industry, Thai hospitality is significant in its economy. Thailand's picturesque beaches, rich cultural heritage, and bustling urban centers entice millions of visitors annually. The market boasts diverse accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels and boutique hotels to opulent resorts. Alongside its lodging options, Thailand offers extensive culinary delights, entertainment avenues, and wellness activities, cementing its allure as a traveler's paradise. However, like other tourism-centric economies, Thailand's hospitality sector faces vulnerabilities, including global economic fluctuations, natural calamities, and health crises like the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, undeterred by these challenges, Thailand's hospitality industry perseveres, showcasing its resilience and adaptability and emerging as a regional hotel industry is keenly attuned to evolving consumer preferences and global trends. The sector now pivots toward sustainable tourism, emphasizing eco-friendly initiatives and wellness offerings. For instance, Six Senses Yao Noi in Phuket champions sustainability through eco-friendly measures and a strong emphasis on nature. Additionally, Thai hotels are embracing technology, rolling out digital solutions like contactless check-ins, mobile room keys, and virtual concierge services. These tech-driven enhancements cater to the evolving expectations of modern-day Thai hospitality industry is poised for further expansion, buoyed by a rising influx of domestic and international young travelers. A pivotal factor propelling this sector's growth is the heightened attention from the Thai government toward bolstering tourism. Notably, Thailand ranks ninth among the world's most visited countries. Key performance indicators for hotels revolve around visitor revenue and tourism-related earnings. The surge in hotel projects is a prominent catalyst propelling the market's momentum. The Thai hospitality industry is fragmented and combines international and domestic brands and chain hotels. The industry's majority of the hotels/chains are independent or homegrown brand chains. The brand penetration rate is also growing, increasing Thailand's domestic and international tourist activities. Accor SA, InterContinental Hotels Group, Centara Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group, Hyatt, and Marriott International, Inc. are a few of the leading companies in the industry. Thailand's Tourism Sector Surges, Aiding Economic RecoveryAccording to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand witnessed a surge in foreign tourist arrivals, crossing 27 million last year. In the previous year, Malaysia was the primary source market for tourists to Thailand, trailed by China, Singapore, and India. With a target of 36 million foreign visitors this year, the Thai government is increasing efforts to improve the nation's tourism infrastructure and promote it as a safe and attractive destination. The resurgence of Thailand's tourism sector bodes well for its economy and underscores its pivotal role in driving revenue and growth of hospitality and other domains. This growth trajectory is projected to persist in the coming years. The Thai government is proactively promoting the country as a hub for medical, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), and green introducing new airline routes and increased flight frequencies to Thailand have bolstered foreign arrivals. Thailand's vibrant tourism and hospitality sector has increasingly become a linchpin of its economy. This year, international arrivals surpassed expectations, directly translating into a boost in the country's Construction Project Pipeline is Anticipated to Meet the Increasing Demand in the Hospitality IndustryThailand's hotel construction pipeline is set to match the surging demand in the country, bolstered by its thriving tourism industry. This sector has emerged as a key player in Thailand's economy, driving growth in hospitality and compensating for sluggishness in other sectors. The hospitality offerings, ranging from basic amenities to upscale options, consistently garner praise for their service quality. Moreover, compared to developed nations, Thailand's relatively affordable prices grant tourists wider access to high-end experiences in the hospitality sector. Last year, Thailand saw 155 hotel construction projects, totaling 37,955 rooms in the fourth quarter. Bangkok leads the pack in hotel construction, closely trailed by Phuket. Notably, Radisson Hotel Group aims to expand its Thai portfolio to 100 hotels and resorts by next year. Marriott International, on the other hand, plans to augment its hotel count in Thailand by 10, spanning various categories, by Topics Covered1 INTRODUCTION1.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition1.2 Scope of the Study2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY4 MARKET DYNAMICS4.1 Market Drivers4.1.1 Government Initiatives to Attract Tourism4.1.2 Growth in Tourism is Driving the Market4.2 Market Restraints4.2.1 Sustainability and Competition Threaten Industry Success4.2.2 Lack of Skilled Labour is a Challenge for the Market4.3 Market Opportunities4.3.1 Online Marketing Can Be Leveraged to Expand the Customer Base4.3.2 Opportunity to Develop and Establish Luxury Hotels and Boutique Properties4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis4.5 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market4.6 Insights on Revenue Flows from Accommodation and Food and Beverage Sectors4.7 Insights on Shared Living Spaces Impact on the Hospitality Industry5 MARKET SEGMENTATION5.1 By Type5.1.1 Chain Hotels5.1.2 Independent Hotels5.2 By Segment5.2.1 Service Apartments5.2.2 Budget and Economy Hotels5.2.3 Mid and Upper-Mid Scale Hotels5.2.4 Luxury Hotels6 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE6.1 Market Concentration Overview6.2 Company Profiles6.2.1 Accor SA6.2.2 Marriott International6.2.3 InterContnental Hotel Group6.2.4 Centara Hotels6.2.5 Hyatt Hotels & Resorts6.2.6 Radisson Hotel Group6.2.7 Eastin Grand Hotel6.2.8 Cape & Kantary Hotels6.2.9 Compass Hospitality6.2.10 Dusit Hotels & Resorts6.2.11 Centre Point Hospitality6.2.12 Imperial Hotels & Resorts7 FUTURE MARKET TRENDSFor more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
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6 hours ago
- Yahoo
Thailand sees slump in tourism despite ‘The White Lotus effect'
Thailand had set high expectations for how many tourists would flock to the country following the success of The White Lotus, yet government data shows the number of visitors is actually dropping. The Thai government said that its aim in 2025 was to return to pre-pandemic numbers with 39-40 million foreign tourists, following the 35 million the country welcomed in 2024. However, it turns out that even with 'The White Lotus effect' in play, which boosted Western visitors to the country off the back of the HBO dark comedy set in a luxury hotel, there has been a slump in visitor numbers so far this year. Foreign visitors to Thailand dropped for the fourth month in a row in May, declining 14 per cent to 2.6 million, government data seen by Bloomberg shows. May has experienced the greatest decline since 2021, when the Covid pandemic closed international borders, the media company said. The biggest slump came from travellers from other Asian countries, who make up the majority of Thailand's tourists. Regional arrivals from Asia fell nearly 11 per cent in May this year compared to 2024. Tourists from China make up the largest proportion of visitors to Thailand, but numbers have fallen by nearly one million so far this year versus 2024, Bloomberg found. The drop can be attributed to fears over scam centres on the Myanmar border. Arrivals fell 33 per cent after Chinese actor Wang Xing went missing in the Thai border city of Mae Sot, which has become a hub for trafficking people into Myanmar. Crime syndicates lure people under false pretences to work in scam centres in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, where they are forced to financially exploit people around the world. Other factors include a recent earthquake that reached Bangkok, which saw dozens die as a construction site collapsed. Flights booked between June and August show a 15 per cent decline from China compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, hotel occupancy is forecast to fall to 52 per cent, largely steered by the Chinese visitor decline, according to a survey of 140 hotel operators within the Thai Hotel Association. Malaysia, Thailand's second biggest target market, has also dropped by 17 per cent so far this year. 'We have lost a lot tourists to other competing countries in Asia because we didn't tackle the negative images seriously,' Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, told the company. 'Thailand's tourism is resilient, but this may take months to rebound.' Despite the slump in Asian tourists booking trips to Thailand, its tourist industry has found a silver lining in the peaked interest of Western visitors. Following the first few episodes of season three of The White Lotus, deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan said that Koh Samui had seen an overall 65 per cent increase in interest among US tourists compared to searches the previous year She added that online travel agency Agoda saw a 12 per cent surge in searches for accommodations on Koh Samui, and Koh Samui had also experienced a 40 per cent rise in luxury hotel bookings. The searches appear to have materialised into visits. Bloomberg said that government data shows US tourists in Thailand have risen by 12 per cent this year through May to more than 625,000, while European visitors have increased by nearly 18 per cent to 3 million in the same period compared to last year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) told The Independent that there has been a 20 per cent increase in tourists from the UK between January and May compared to 2024, totalling up to over 512,000. It hopes to reach one million UK visitors by the end of 2025. 'With the decline in Chinese tourists, the sentiment from TAT is that European travellers are thriving and there are emerging markets too, which are exciting,' a TAT spokesperson said. 'It is also an opportunity for TAT to focus on attracting quality travellers over quantity - those who stay longer, spend more and delve deeper into Thailand and all it offers. The 60-day visa exemption is a draw to stay longer in Thailand, for example.'
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12 hours ago
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Boise to welcome ‘crown jewel' of hotels on Grove Street. What's coming?
The newest hotel in downtown Boise is edging closer to opening in an area that has seen a wild transformation since the COVID-19 pandemic. Construction crews, city officials, businessmen and developers celebrated a 'topping off' ceremony Wednesday for the incoming 15-story, dual-branded AC and Element Marriott hotel at 1011 W. Grove St. Attendees signed the final structural beam before a crane lifted it atop the building. The AC Hotel will offer a 'sleek, modern experience' with a European style, while the Element Hotel will focus on 'wellness, sustainability and extended-stay comfort,' said Mike Webster, the president of Eagle's Pennbridge Hospitality, which is building the hotels. The two hotels will be within the same building with a shared lobby. The 175-room AC will offer a minimalist experience, while all rooms in the 121-room Element will have kitchens and complimentary breakfasts. 'We think we're bringing something truly unique to the Boise market,' Webster said. The estimated $100 million hotel will include 296 rooms with 10 suites, 9,000 square feet of meeting space, a fitness center and an outdoor roof deck with a spa, barbecues and fire pits on the fifth floor. On the 16th floor, the hotel will include a full-service restaurant and bar called the Boise Post flanked by two rooftop decks. According to Tom Whitney, vice president of development at Pennbridge, the restaurant will use local ingredients in global dishes — such as a Thai larb salad with smoked Idaho trout or churros with Idaho potato flour. The restaurant will be open to the public, too. 'This will really be a crown jewel of the Boise hotel scene,' Whitney said. 'This property will be a landmark.' The building has been under construction for 17 months, and it still has about nine months until crews finish, Whitney said. The hotel is Pennbridge's 14th and its fifth in Idaho. The company's portfolio includes two hotels in Twin Falls, two Marriott hotels in Boise and the 10-story Residence Inn that opened on Capitol Boulevard in October 2017. The new hotel will 'be a great compliment' to the Residence Inn, said Tom Lewis, one of two principals and cofounders of Pennbridge along with Jared Smith. The building has been a long-time coming. The company bought the parking lot that filled the site in January 2020, according to Smith. Then the pandemic hit two months later, parking revenue went to zero, and the duo questioned what they were doing. 'The sun is much brighter in June of 2025 than it was in June of 2020,' Smith said. In that period, a wave of new hotels and redevelopment swept through downtown Boise — focusing heavily on properties surrounding the 11th and Grove street intersection where the AC and Element Hotel is going up. The 122-room Hotel Renegade opened on the northwest corner in May 2024, followed two months later by the boutique Sparrow hotel with 66 rooms on the northeast corner. Both Hotel Renegade and the AC and Element hotels filled former parking lots. Mayor Lauren McLean said the new hotels are helping link the core of downtown to other parts of downtown along Grove Street. 'We have seen so much progress and development right here in an area that was pretty quiet just a couple years ago at the beginning of COVID,' McLean said at the event. 'And it has come to life.' Cody Lund, the executive director of the Boise Centre, told the Idaho Statesman after the Sparrow opened that the city continues to see more demand than hotels have room for. The new Pennbridge hotel could make a dent in that demand, but local hoteliers say the city is still lacking a large-scale hotel with 600 rooms or more that could help bring in bigger conventions or events. The 296 rooms of the new hotel would get close, but not surpass, the largest hotel in the Greater Boise Auditorium District's boundaries: the Riverside Hotel in Garden City, with 300 rooms. But it would dethrone the largest in Boise: the Grove Hotel on Boulevard, with 250 rooms. Thought shopping malls were dead? This developer wants to bring one back to life As Boise area grapples with change, more homes get OK for busy transit corridor Harris Ranch could soon add businesses, shopping & food carts. What's the plan? A historic Boise home could be demolished over safety concerns. What happened?
