Chris Infotainment

Thailand's Tourism Outlook for 2025 Thailand, the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, is preparing for a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals next year. The country expects to welcome approximately 34.9 million international visitors, representing a 4% rise compared to the previous year. This surge is anticipated to generate around 1.63 trillion baht (approximately $51.7 billion) in revenue, marking an 8% year-on-year growth. In addition to foreign tourism, domestic travel is also expected to contribute substantially to the economy. Total tourism revenue, including both domestic and international sectors, is forecasted to reach 2.79 trillion baht ($88 billion). This figure highlights the importance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth in the region. Challenges in 2024 Despite the positive outlook for 2025, the tourism industry in Thailand is currently facing some challenges. Authorities predict that the number of foreign arrivals this year will decre...

Phu Quoc: A New Gateway for Indian Travelers Phu Quoc, recognized as the most beautiful island in Asia by readers of the American magazine Condé Nast Traveler, recently welcomed over 180 Indian travelers on a new direct flight from New Delhi on December 10. This marked the beginning of a month-long series of flights connecting the two destinations, aiming to bring a fresh wave of visitors to Vietnam's pristine island. The inaugural flight was the first of eight direct services scheduled to operate from December 10, 2025, to January 10, 2026. The route is operated by Air India in collaboration with Vietravel and MakeMyTrip, India’s leading online travel platform. Tourism analysts consider this development a significant step in boosting one of Vietnam's fastest-growing visitor markets. They believe that Phu Quoc holds immense potential for attracting Indian travelers. "Indian travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer unique, memorable, and easily access...

A Unique Tourism Campaign in Skåne, Sweden In October, Skåne in Sweden introduced an unconventional tourism campaign that captured the attention of nature lovers around the world. The southern county was seeking travelers interested in spending a few days in a cabin nestled deep in the woods. The catch? Participants had to maintain a level of quietness, as any loud noises could result in an early departure. Johanna Holm, originally from the south of Germany and currently studying to become a teacher, was one of the participants in the ‘Stay Quiet’ challenge. Here’s what she discovered during her hushed weekend in a cabin in the woods. A Response to Noise Pollution Visit Skåne launched its Stay Quiet campaign in response to noise pollution, which project manager Josefine Nordgren describes as one of the most underestimated environmental issues of our time. “Studies show that constant exposure to noise increases stress, disturbs sleep, and affects both physical and mental health,” sh...

Forest Viet participated in the Vietnam Tourism Promotion Program, which was organized by the Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) in Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou, China, during late November. This event was part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting Vietnamese tourism in the Chinese market. It coincided with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and China, as well as the Vietnam-China Cultural Exchange Year 2025. Forest Viet's representative (the third person from the right) at Vietnam Tourism Promotion Program in Shanghai, China. Photo courtesy of Forest Viet The program brought together representatives from airlines, travel companies, event organizers, and tourism partners from both countries. The primary goal was to strengthen connections and expand cooperation, especially as the number of Chinese tourists visiting Vietnam continues to grow steadily. According to VNAT, in the first 10 months of 2025, Vietnam welc...

Rising Popularity of Phu Quoc Among Vietnamese Tourists According to data from a Dutch-based platform, Phu Quoc has emerged as the top destination for Vietnamese tourists during the upcoming New Year holiday. The island saw a significant increase in searches, with a rise of 86% compared to the same period last year. This surge in interest highlights the growing appeal of Phu Quoc as a travel hotspot. Da Lat secured the second position on the list, followed by Ho Chi Minh City in third place. The data was collected based on hotel bookings made between December 20, 2025, and January 4, 2026. Hanoi came in fourth, while Da Nang completed the top five destinations. The remaining spots in the top 10 were filled by Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Mui Ne, Hoi An, and Sa Pa. These locations are also gaining traction among domestic travelers, offering a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and recreational activities. Phu Quoc's Tourism Boom in 2025 The year 2025 marked a significant mil...

Phu Quoc Island, a popular tourist destination in Vietnam, has faced significant challenges as a major power outage has disrupted the experiences of many international visitors. The blackout, which began on November 29, has left parts of the island without electricity for weeks, causing inconvenience and frustration among travelers who had planned their trips for months. British tourist Tina Compton and her husband arrived on the island on November 29, only to find themselves in the middle of a severe power outage. Their 15-day stay started with a climb of 100 stairs in complete darkness, as elevators and hotel lighting were not functioning. Compton's husband even slipped on the stairs while trying to go out for dinner. "The hotel provided very limited information. We didn't know when the electricity would be back on," Compton said. The power outage also affected the water supply, further complicating the tourists' routines, hygiene, and dining plans. For many,...

New Regulations for Air Travel in Vietnam Starting December 1, passengers flying with Vietnamese airlines will experience a significant change in the check-in process. According to a recent government directive, only passengers with checked baggage or those in special categories will be allowed to use the traditional check-in counters. All other passengers are required to complete the entire travel process—starting from purchasing tickets to passing security and boarding flights—using the VNeID app with biometric authentication or at self-service kiosks. This initiative is part of an effort to improve the overall customer experience and streamline airport operations. The airline has emphasized that the new regulation aims to save time and make the travel process more efficient for passengers. How the Process Works Passengers who do not fall into the specified categories must utilize the VNeID app for their check-in needs. This includes tasks such as ticket purchase, check-in, and ...

Survey Reveals Impact of Visa Restrictions on Vietnamese Travel Plans A recent survey conducted by the online travel platform Agoda has highlighted the significant influence of visa restrictions on the travel behavior of Vietnamese citizens. According to the findings, 60% of Vietnamese respondents indicated that these restrictions have a direct impact on their travel plans. The survey involved 3,353 participants across nine Asian markets, including Vietnam. The results showed that 91% of respondents expressed a desire to travel abroad more frequently if visa procedures were simplified and access to new countries was improved. This suggests a strong demand among Vietnamese travelers for more flexible and accessible international travel options. Shift in Travel Priorities One of the most notable findings from the survey is the change in travel priorities among Vietnamese citizens. Due to restrictive visa rules, 50% of respondents said they would now prioritize domestic travel over i...

Understanding the Preferences of Asian Travelers A recent survey conducted by Agoda, a leading online travel platform, has revealed that nearly three out of four Asian travelers (73%) prefer booking accommodations that cost less than US$100 per night. This data highlights a growing trend among travelers in Asia who are increasingly focused on finding affordable options without compromising on their travel experiences. The survey, which was carried out in October, included 3,353 respondents across nine Asian markets, including India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The findings indicate that travelers in certain countries, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, are particularly price-sensitive. In these regions, most travelers are looking for stays under $50 per night, showcasing a strong preference for budget-friendly options. Financial Planning and Spending Habits One of the key insights from the survey is that about 40%...

Vietnam’s Tourism Sector Gains Momentum Vietnam is witnessing a remarkable surge in its tourism industry, driven by both domestic travel and a significant recovery in international arrivals. This growth has solidified the country's status as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. According to a report from Savills Hotels and the international law firm Watson Farley & Williams, the nation is on track for continued expansion. In 2024, Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million foreign visitors, and by the first nine months of 2025, the number had risen to 15.4 million. These figures suggest that the country is well-positioned to meet its target of 25 million foreign visitors by the end of the year. Hotel Room Growth and Regional Distribution As of the third quarter, Vietnam has more than 192,000 midscale-to-luxury hotel rooms. This represents a compound annual growth rate of 10.9% over the past decade, one of the highest in the region. Approximately 60% of the...

A Disturbing Experience on a Tour in Chengdu A group of 23 tourists from Singapore found themselves in an unexpected and uncomfortable situation during a nine-day trip to Chengdu, China. The incident, which has since sparked widespread discussion, involved pressure from their tour guide to make purchases at a local shop, with some even being locked inside when they refused to comply. Shawn Tok, who won the 2007 Campus SuperStar competition, shared his experience through a series of Instagram Stories. He revealed that he was part of a tour group that included 22 others, traveling in November. According to reports from local outlets, the group was subjected to intense pressure to buy various items, including jade, silverware, combs, and herbal medicines. The guide reportedly did not allow the group to leave the shop until a certain sales quota was met. This led to significant financial strain on the travelers, who spent approximately 105,000 yuan (US$14,850) during the tour. However,...

The Subtle Signs of a Sophisticated Traveler We all know someone who exudes grace and sophistication. These individuals often appear calm and composed, effortlessly navigating security checkpoints or flipping through a magazine at the gate. They seem to have everything under control and would never be caught misplacing their boarding pass or forgetting to charge their headphones. While chicness may come naturally to some, packing well can make a significant difference. An expert has shared insights into the items in your carry-on that could reveal you're a more sophisticated traveler than you think. Jordan Cooper, speaking to VegOut, emphasized that real travel sophistication isn't about designer luggage or first-class tickets. Instead, it's in the small decisions that distinguish people who travel from those who truly understand how to travel. The Power of a Collapsible Water Bottle One of the first items on Jordan’s list is a collapsible water bottle. He recalls his f...

Shift in Russian Tourist Preferences In recent years, the traditional favorite destination of Nha Trang has not been the only Vietnamese location capturing the attention of Russian tourists. A growing number of travelers are exploring other regions such as Phu Quoc, which was recently recognized as the most beautiful island in Asia by readers of the American magazine Condé Nast Traveler . This shift indicates a broader interest in Vietnam's diverse offerings, with more visitors seeking unique experiences beyond the well-known coastal city. Despite some unfavorable weather conditions in various parts of Vietnam, Russian travel agencies have reported no cancellations or reductions in tour bookings to the country. This resilience highlights the continued appeal of Vietnam as a winter getaway for Russian tourists, even amid challenges like short-term flooding in certain areas. Stability in Nha Trang One Click Travel, a company that serves a significant number of clients traveling ...

Key Attractions for Tourists in Indonesia Indonesian Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, has emphasized the significance of shopping activities as a major draw for tourists visiting the country. During a press conference held in Jakarta on November 21, she highlighted the need to promote shopping tourism not only within neighboring countries but also across ASEAN and other international markets. According to Widiyanti, the growing interest in shopping among tourists is evident from the trends observed in 2024. Foreign visitors to Indonesia spent an average of US$1,391 during their visits, with 11.4% of this amount allocated to souvenirs and gifts. This data underscores the potential of the retail sector in attracting and retaining tourists. Initiatives to Boost Shopping Tourism To capitalize on this opportunity, the Ministry of Tourism has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing the promotion of shopping tourism. These efforts are particularly focused on prepa...

The Rise of Shoulder-Season Travel The sweet spot—when tourist crowds have yet to descend or they have just left—is what travelers are now searching for. This trend is gaining momentum, especially among Gen Z, who are choosing off-peak times to travel to make their money go further and avoid the worst of the tourist crowds. Recent reports, including Airbnb's "2025 Fall Travel Trends," highlight that those born between 1997 and 2012 are warming up to the appeal of shoulder seasons, when demand is lower but many of the attractions of high season can still be enjoyed. Here are five destinations and their shoulder seasons recommended for those seeking quieter streets and cheaper sleeps. Kanazawa, Japan Kanazawa, located on Honshu Island, offers a unique experience during its shoulder seasons. These include late May, early June, early September, and early November. While visitors may miss out on the peak sakura (spring blossoms) and autumn foliage, they can still enjoy the...

A Czech tourist has shared his harrowing experience of being stranded on a train for three days following the historic floods that disrupted travel in south-central Vietnam. On the morning of November 18, Nicola Burianova arrived at Saigon station with high hopes, although he had been informed that his train, SE2, would be delayed until 7:25 p.m. due to bad weather. After hours of waiting, he fell asleep as soon as he boarded the train. In the middle of the night, he was abruptly awakened by an eerie silence — the train had come to a stop. Through a rain-streaked window, Burianova could only see pitch blackness and hear the relentless downpour. The train had made an emergency stop at Tuy Hoa Station in Dak Lak, one of the most severely affected provinces after floodwaters rose, making the road ahead unsafe and posing a threat to the train's stability. Nicola Burianova on a flooded street in Tuy Hoa, Dak Lak Province, central Vietnam, November 2025. Photo by Burianova Burianov...

Understanding Temporary Residence Declarations for Foreign Tourists in Vietnam For foreign tourists planning a trip to Vietnam, especially those staying in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the common questions is whether they need to submit a temporary residence declaration with local authorities. This concern often arises due to unfamiliarity with Vietnamese immigration regulations and the procedures that accompany international travel. According to Huynh Thi My Hanh, a senior lawyer from Le&Tran Law Corporation, the responsibility for submitting a temporary residence declaration lies with the accommodation provider, not the tourist themselves. This means that hotels or hosts are legally required to register their guests' stays with the local police department. The process is typically handled during check-in, where the tourist only needs to present their passport or travel documents. The Role of Accommodation Providers Tourists do not need to personally file any declarations wit...

The Growing Issue of Oversized and Overweight Carry-Ons In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend among passengers who bring carry-ons that are either too large or too heavy for the overhead bins. This has led to situations where airline staff have to physically lift these bags into the cabin, creating unnecessary delays and added stress for everyone involved. Additionally, some travelers attempt to fit extra purchases into their already full luggage, further complicating the process. This issue has become more prominent as airlines introduce stricter policies regarding carry-on baggage. For example, Vietnam Airlines recently announced that it will start charging for hand baggage that exceeds the prescribed size or weight from November 3, citing "safety reasons and efforts to improve the passenger experience." However, this policy has sparked a wave of negative reactions from passengers, with many criticizing it as "difficult," "unfair," and an...

The experience of perceiving the world is deeply personal, shaped by individual senses and memories. In a recent performance, a Chilean actor named Ebana Garin posed a thought-provoking question: “To me, the blue of the sky is the color of solitude and nostalgia, homesickness. What color is your nostalgia?” This question was met with a response from Hilda Snipper, a Dutch amateur actor who has only 1% of her visual ability remaining. She replied, “When I hear the word nostalgia, I recall purple velvet curtains and the smell of dust.” Their exchange highlighted how two individuals can look at the same landscape yet perceive it in entirely different ways. In a society that often prioritizes sight as the most valuable sense, the act of “seeing” is frequently equated with truth and understanding. However, this assumption may not hold true. A recent play titled Last Hope , performed at the Modu Art Theater in Chungjeongno, Seoul, challenged these preconceptions and explored the power of e...

The Future of Tourism in the UK: A Technological Revolution Artificial lakes and 3D tour guides may sound like elements from a science fiction film, but they could soon become staples of the UK’s tourism landscape. By 2050, rural towns and villages across the country are expected to emerge as highly sought-after destinations, driven by technological advancements. The Future of Rural report predicts that rural tourism will undergo a complete transformation over the next 25 years, thanks to full fibre broadband and other innovations. This shift is anticipated to bring about a surge in demand for countryside escapes, leading to significant investments in infrastructure and amenities. One of the most exciting developments could be the creation of artificial lakes and inland beaches. These features could provide new recreational opportunities and attract visitors looking for unique experiences. In addition, technology is expected to evolve to the point where real-time AI translation sys...