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.

Santiburi Koh Samui, the luxury retreat by S Hotels & Resorts, is welcoming the new season with a refreshed edition of its acclaimed 100 Miles Dining Programme at the iconic Sala Thai at Santiburi. A beloved culinary landmark for over three decades, the restaurant continues to celebrate authentic Thai flavours through a five-course menu crafted entirely from ingredients sourced within a 100-mile radius of the resort.

At the heart of this initiative lies a deep respect for local heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Each ingredient is handpicked by the head chef from nearby markets and the resort’s organic garden, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every plate. Supporting local fishermen, farmers, and small-scale producers, the menu features wild-caught seafood and naturally harvested produce, paying homage to the island’s natural bounty.

A highlight of this year’s menu is its tribute to the coconut, sourced exclusively from Koh Phangan’s traditional farms, celebrated for their naturally creamy sweetness. In line with the brand’s sustainability ethos, the programme also supports S Hotels & Resorts’ “Green Button” initiative for every 100 Miles Set Menu ordered, a tree is planted at Chiang Rai’s Singha Park, promoting reforestation and environmental education.

The culinary experience unfolds as a flavourful journey through Thailand’s southern coast. Guests begin with Hor Mok Talay, a delicately spiced coconut custard with fresh Surat Thani seafood, served in a mini coconut shell, a creative ode to Samui’s most iconic fruit. The Samui Lobster Carpaccio, paired with tom yum caviar and crisp peanut cracker, adds a modern twist to classic flavours.

The reimagined Tom Yam Goong, prepared with a fragrant coconut water broth, offers a lighter and more aromatic take on the traditional soup. For the main course, Surf ’n’ Earth pairs slow-cooked, grain-fed beef cheeks from Nakhon Si Thammarat with wild-caught Samui red snapper, balanced with Malindjo leaf mousse and Surat-style yellow crab curry, a bold representation of southern Thai craftsmanship.

The meal concludes on a poetic note with Chocolate Coconut Parfait with Raspberries, a dessert that celebrates the coconut in form and spirit. Inspired by the anatomy of the fruit, it features a chocolate shell encasing a silky coconut parfait, finished with bright raspberries. The chocolate, sourced from a local Samui artisan, highlights Thailand’s growing artisanal cacao culture.

Available exclusively at Sala Thai, the 100 Miles Dining Programme can also be enjoyed as part of a special stay package, which includes daily breakfast, one 100 Miles Dining experience for two, and 20% off the à la carte menu.

For reservations, visit santiburisamui.com/offers/100-miles-culinary-journey or email fb@santiburisamui.com / rsvn@santiburisamui.com.

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.