Cambodia, Thailand and several Southeast Asian countries are entering a new phase for regional tourism as tighter border restrictions, rising fuel prices, higher transport costs and inflation reshape the way travellers plan cross-border holidays. According to the AMRO 2026 Annual Consultation Report, these economic and operational pressures are expected to influence tourism, trade and regional mobility, particularly for visitors travelling across multiple ASEAN destinations. While international tourism continues to recover across Southeast Asia, the latest developments are prompting travellers, airlines, tour operators and hospitality businesses to adapt to a changing travel landscape.
Cross-border tourism faces new operational challenges
Multi-country holidays have become one of Southeast Asia’s strongest tourism products, allowing travellers to explore destinations such as Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Malaysia within a single itinerary.
However, recent border-related restrictions and increasing transportation costs are making some cross-border journeys more complex.
Travellers planning overland routes may encounter additional travel requirements, longer processing times or changes to transport availability depending on border conditions.
These developments are encouraging visitors to review travel requirements carefully before beginning regional journeys.
Rising fuel prices increase travel costs
Higher fuel prices continue affecting transportation throughout Southeast Asia.
Airlines, coach operators, ferry services and road transport providers are managing increased operating costs, which may be reflected in airfare, bus tickets, ferry fares and organised tour packages.
For travellers visiting several countries during one holiday, transportation now represents a larger share of overall travel budgets.
The trend is encouraging many visitors to plan longer stays in fewer destinations or optimise itineraries to reduce unnecessary travel.
Inflation influences tourism spending
Inflation across parts of the region is also influencing visitor spending patterns.
Accommodation, dining, transportation and tourism-related services have experienced cost adjustments in several markets.
Many travellers continue choosing destinations that offer competitive value while balancing experiences with overall holiday budgets.
Tourism businesses are responding by introducing promotional offers, flexible travel packages and seasonal discounts designed to remain competitive despite higher operating costs.
Cambodia remains an important regional gateway
Despite current challenges, Cambodia continues welcoming international visitors through its cultural and heritage attractions.
Destinations including Siem Reap, home to the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park, together with Phnom Penh, Kampot, Kep and the southern islands remain central to the country’s tourism appeal.
Cambodia also plays an important role in regional overland tourism, connecting visitors travelling between Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.
Maintaining efficient regional connectivity continues supporting tourism across neighbouring destinations.
Thailand continues attracting international visitors
Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia’s largest tourism markets despite evolving regional conditions.
Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Krabi continue attracting international visitors through diverse experiences including beaches, cultural attractions, shopping, wellness tourism and culinary travel.
Many travellers combine Thailand with neighbouring Cambodia and other ASEAN destinations, making regional transport networks particularly important for tourism flows.
Air connectivity continues helping offset some of the challenges affecting land-based travel.
Regional tourism businesses adapt
Airlines, hotels, tour operators and destination management organisations are adjusting services to respond to changing traveller behaviour.
Many tourism providers are promoting flexible booking policies, direct flight options and longer destination stays that reduce the need for frequent border crossings.
Travel companies are also providing updated information regarding transportation schedules, border procedures and local travel conditions to help visitors plan more efficiently.
These operational adjustments support continued tourism activity while improving visitor preparedness.
ASEAN connectivity remains essential
Regional tourism continues relying on strong connectivity between ASEAN member states.
International airports across Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore continue supporting millions of visitors through expanding air networks.
Although some overland travel may require additional planning, aviation remains a key driver of regional tourism growth.
The continued development of airline connectivity provides travellers with alternative routing options across Southeast Asia.
Travellers encouraged to plan ahead
Travel planning has become increasingly important for visitors considering multi-country holidays.
Checking visa requirements, border regulations, transportation schedules and travel advisories before departure can help minimise disruptions.
Booking transportation and accommodation in advance also provides greater flexibility when travel conditions change.
For visitors exploring multiple Southeast Asian destinations, preparation remains one of the most effective ways to ensure smooth journeys.
Conclusion
Cambodia, Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations continue welcoming international visitors while adapting to evolving regional travel conditions shaped by border restrictions, rising fuel prices, higher transport costs and inflation. Although these factors are influencing cross-border tourism and travel planning, the region’s diverse attractions, extensive aviation network and strong tourism infrastructure continue supporting international travel. As tourism businesses and travellers adjust to the changing environment, careful planning and flexible itineraries will remain key to exploring Southeast Asia’s leading destinations in 2026.
