China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries until December 31, 2026, while adding Sweden to the list starting November 10, 2025. The initiative aims to attract more international visitors, revive tourism, and enhance foreign engagement in the post-pandemic era.

The extension applies to 32 European countries, along with Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several South American and Gulf nations, according to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Affairs Department. Under this policy, visitors from eligible countries can enter China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit for up to 30 days without a visa.

Originally set to expire at the end of 2025 for many countries, the programme’s renewal and expansion underscore China’s ongoing efforts to revive its tourism sector, which was severely affected by years of COVID-19 restrictions. The visa-free entry scheme has been a key part of Beijing’s broader strategy to strengthen international ties and encourage people-to-people exchanges.

The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom remain excluded from the policy.

China is also taking steps to ease tensions and improve cooperation with the European Union (EU), one of its most significant trading partners. Following a meeting between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump in South Korea last week, Beijing confirmed a one-year suspension of expanded rare earth export controls, which will also extend to the EU.

In a joint statement after discussions in Brussels, both sides agreed to maintain communication and promote the stability of industrial and supply chains, signalling a shared intent to foster smoother economic relations despite ongoing trade challenges.

This renewed visa-free policy, coupled with China’s diplomatic outreach, represents a strategic push to enhance cross-border mobility, economic collaboration, and tourism, further positioning the country as a welcoming destination for global travellers.

A Maldivian paradise has once again conquered the global stage. OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the luxury island retreat, has been recognised among the world’s finest dining destinations at the prestigious World’s Best Wine Lists Awards 2025. The resort achieved a stunning double win at London’s legendary Savoy Hotel, taking home the titles of ‘Best All-Inclusive Wine List in Asia’ and the coveted ‘Jury Award’ for its outstanding wine programme.

The awards, hosted by The World of Fine Wine, a leading British publication for global wine enthusiasts, celebrate excellence across 21 categories, with winners chosen by an independent panel of Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, and leading experts. Judging criteria include breadth, depth, balance, and originality, positioning OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI among the most elite restaurants and hotels worldwide.

“Being honoured with this global recognition for a second consecutive year is both thrilling and deeply humbling,” said Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines for Atmosphere Core. “We believe a perfect holiday should be paired with a perfect glass of wine, it must not feel like an extra, but a natural part of the journey and always available to guests throughout the resort. Seeing our team’s dedication, from curating over 100 labels to integrating them into the RESERVE Plan, celebrated like this is incredibly rewarding.”

At OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, wine is more than a beverage, it’s an experience. From the moment guests arrive, their villa’s personal maxi bar, replenished daily, offers an introduction to the resort’s acclaimed collection. The RESERVE Plan ensures that over 100 premium wines, champagnes, and spirits are seamlessly woven into every aspect of the stay, from breakfast to the final sunset toast.

The resort’s CUVEÉ wine library serves as the heart of its vinous offerings, where expert sommeliers host intimate tasting dinners, pairing fine wines with gourmet cuisine for a truly immersive journey.

This passion extends across THE OZEN COLLECTION, with OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO hosting exclusive wine events and masterclasses with renowned vintners, including Champagne Guy Charbaut from France and Bodegas Viñátigo from Spain’s Canary Islands.

This international recognition reaffirms what guests have long known that OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers more than breathtaking views and opulent stays. It delivers a complete sensory experience where each glass poured mirrors the resort’s dedication to excellence, proving that true luxury is found in perfectly curated moments.

Rosewood Hong Kong has been named The World’s Best Hotel 2025, securing the No.1 position on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list, announced at a live awards ceremony in London. The global ranking celebrates exceptional hospitality across 22 destinations and six continents, along with several special award recognitions.

Opened in 2019, the 65-storey Rosewood Hong Kong towers over Victoria Harbour on the Kowloon waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Designed by acclaimed Taiwanese designer Tony Chi, the 413-room luxury property features eleven restaurants and bars, a stunning harbour-view infinity pool, and the renowned multi-level Asaya wellness facility.

The hotel climbed two spots from its previous No.3 position in 2024, also earning the title of The Best Hotel in Asia.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, said, “We are delighted to celebrate Rosewood Hong Kong’s No.1 spot – a property that has consistently featured in the top three since the inception of the awards in 2023. This exceptional hotel offers world-class service and experiences in one of the world’s most vibrant destinations.”

The second and third positions were claimed by Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River and Capella Bangkok, respectively, reaffirming Asia’s dominance in the luxury hospitality segment. In total, 20 hotels from Asia featured on the list, followed by Europe with 17, North America with 6, Africa with 3, Oceania with 2, and South America with 2.

Among the special awards announced were:

• Best Boutique Hotel Award: Passalacqua, Lake Como (No.4)
  

• Eco Hotel Award: Desa Potato Head, Bali (No.18)
  

• Best New Hotel Award: Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing (No.14)
  

• Icon Award: Ian Schrager
  

• Art of Design Award: Singita – Kruger National Park (No.40)
  

• Most Admired Hotel Group: Four Seasons
  

• Highest Climber Award: Royal Mansour, Marrakech (No.13)
  

• Highest New Entry Award: Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro (No.11)
  

• Best Beach Hotel Award: Atlantis The Royal, Dubai (No.6)
  

This year’s ranking highlights Asia’s continued leadership in the global hospitality landscape, with standout performances from India, Japan, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai (No.38) marked India’s presence on the global list, while properties from Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas showcased diverse excellence in design, innovation, and service.

Now in its third year, The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards have become a defining benchmark for global hospitality excellence, recognising hotels that set new standards in guest experience, sustainability, and creativity.