Klook eyes US markets, further expansion in Asia, and new social commerce features in next phase of growth

We’re only weeks away from WiT Singapore: Next Generation, and it seems like everyone is looking towards the future.

At 10-years-old, Klook is taking ambitious steps with eyes set on expansion across Asia and into U.S. markets, while embracing the booming creator economy.?

Marcus Yong , VP of Global Marketing at Klook, shared the platform’s vision, saying, “If we can bring that West-meets-East confluence to life, it could be a game-changer.” With over 20,000 creators across 16 markets, Klook’s next phase also involves social commerce, with its “Kreator” program priotitising user-generated content.

Then there’s Klook’s collaboration with TikTok , allowing users to book travel experiences directly from the app, bridging the gap between social media inspiration and action. “Our goal is to meet them where they are,” Yong explained. This move comes at a time when the idea of ‘search’ is drastically changing, as younger consumers use social media to look-up and even buy products.?

Switching gears, we published a guest post this week by Dr. Stroma Cole , Co-Director of Equality in Tourism , on Rwanda’s transformation from post-genocide recovery to a thriving tourism hub. Generating $620 million annually, tourism has empowered Rwandan women to lead and rebuild communities, with initiatives like the NYAMIRAMBO WOMEN'S CENTER at the forefront. Marie Aimee Umugeni, President of the center, said, “We now employ more than 200 women around the city and support local businesses through our tours and activities.”

The walking tours, cooking classes, and traditional handicrafts offered provide not just income but a sense of purpose. “Tourism has allowed women to take leadership roles and preserve our culture,” says Umugeni. I see this as a way of bringing peace at home, which helps bring peace to the country,” says Umugeni. Their model demonstrates how tourism be a powerful force for positive change and peace in post-conflict societies.

Here’s a big question to ponder over the week - can travel help us live longer??

According to Dr. Athasit Amornthanomchoke of RAKxa Integrative Wellness , it might. At a recent event in Singapore, Dr. Athasit shared insights on how travel experiences like social interaction, physical activity, and new cuisine contribute to overall well-being. “Travel isn’t just about leisure; it plays an important role in individual and public health,” said Dr. Athasit, citing new research from Edith Cowan University that supports this claim.

“Eighty-two percent of US consumers now consider wellness a top priority,” according to a McKinsey report, showing that wellness tourism is a growing trend.

Chip Conley , a veteran hotelier, calls this movement “longevity travel,” noting that a positive mindset on aging can add years to life. As more wellness resorts focus on preventive medicine and well-being, travel may be one of the keys to living longer—and living well.

For more thought-provoking travel ideas, discussions and debates like these, join us at WiT Singapore: Next Generation (Oct 14 - 16). Get your tickets now.

For more stories from travel and tech in Asia, visit www.webintravel.com.

Have a great weekend, everyone!