Skyline of Manila City and Manila Bay, Philippines
MANILA, 25 June 2025: Tourism contributed 8.9% to the Philippines’ 2024 gross domestic product (GDP), an increase from 8.7% in 2023, according to a Philippines News Agency report quoting data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) last Thursday.
The Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA), an indicator that measures the value added of the tourism industry, amounted to PHP2.35 trillion last year, 11.2% higher compared with PHP2.12 trillion in 2023.
PNA also noted that employment in the tourism sector increased by 6.1% to 6.75 million, compared with 6.37 million in 2023.
“The share of employment in tourism industries to the total employment in the country was recorded at 13.8% in 2024,” the news agency report noted.
Released annually, the PSA’s Philippine Tourism Satellite Account for the Philippines reports all visitor spending in accommodation services, food and beverage serving services, transport services, travel agencies and other reservation services, entertainment and recreation services, and shopping.
Among the forms of tourism expenditures, those for outbound tourism posted the highest annual growth rate of 37.5%, reaching PhP345.68 billion in 2024. This was followed by domestic tourism expenditure, which grew by 16.4% from PhP2.71 trillion in 2023 to PhP3.16 trillion in 2024.
Inbound tourism expenditure grew by 0.4% to PHP699.98 billion last year, compared with PHP697.49 billion in 2023.
SINGAPORE, 25 June 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda invites adventurous travellers to explore Asia’s hidden waterfall destinations, perfect for those looking to escape the ordinary.
From secluded rainforest cascades to dramatic mountain streams, these off-the-beaten-path gems promise unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Dau Dang Waterfall – Source: Collection Ba Be National Park, Vietnam.
Waterfalls offer a unique appeal to travellers, combining natural beauty with a sense of adventure. Asia, with its diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery, offers countless hidden waterfall wonders waiting to be discovered. Whether tucked away in dense jungles, nestled in mountain ranges, or flowing through tranquil national parks, these destinations are perfect for those seeking to connect with nature and uncover lesser-known treasures.
Here’s Agoda’s list of nine must-visit waterfall destinations in Asia:
Thi Lo Su, Umphang, Thailand
As Thailand’s largest waterfall, Thi Lo Su is a majestic sight tucked away in the remote wilderness of Tak Province. Its multi-tiered cascades and wild surroundings make it a must-visit for those seeking a truly off-the-grid adventure.
Shiraito Falls, Shizuoka, Japan
Located near the iconic Mt. Fuji, Shiraito Falls is a mesmerising curtain of water that flows gracefully over a wide rock face. Surrounded by verdant foliage, this serene spot is a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat from bustling tourist hubs.
Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon-do, South Korea
This dramatic mountain park is home to hidden gems like Biryong and Yukdam waterfalls. Surrounded by rugged peaks, these cascades offer an escape for hikers and nature lovers.
Senaru, Lombok, Indonesia
The village of Senaru serves as the gateway to the enchanting Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. Nestled at the foot of Mount Rinjani, these cascades are set amidst tropical forests and are perfect for adventurous souls looking to combine trekking with a refreshing dip.
Agumbe, Karnataka, India
Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” Agumbe is a rainforest village home to stunning waterfalls like Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls. These cascades are a dream for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse oneself in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
Ditumabo Falls, Baler, Philippines
Known as the “Mother Falls,” Ditumabo is a powerful cascade set in the laid-back coastal town of Baler. The trek to the falls is an adventure in itself, leading visitors through rivers and dense forests.
Belum Rainforest, Perak, Malaysia
Deep within the pristine Belum-Temengor rainforest lies a collection of hidden waterfalls, accessible only to those willing to venture off the beaten path. These secluded cascades offer a rare glimpse into one of Malaysia’s most untouched natural landscapes.
Liangshan Waterfalls, Sandimen, Taiwan
Located in the indigenous lands of Pingtung, Liangshan Waterfalls are a secluded treasure surrounded by forested hills. This captivating spot offers a unique cultural and natural experience for those eager to explore Taiwan’s hidden corners.
Dau Dang and Silver Waterfalls, Ba Be National Park, Vietnam
Nestled in the idyllic Ba Be Lake area, these waterfalls are hidden gems within a less-visited national park. Travellers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, rich biodiversity, and the charm of Vietnam’s northern landscapes.
BANGKOK, 25 June 2025: Visa announced this week refreshed card benefits for Visa Infinite in 18 markets across the Asia Pacific, recognising that affluent consumers are seeking to enhance their life’s moments.
Asia Pacific is quickly becoming a global hub for wealth and is expected to account for nearly half (47.5%) of all new High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) between 2025 and 2028.
Photo credit: Visa.
For this growing group, luxury is being redefined — not just through material goods but through meaningful experiences that enhance their lives and relationships. Interestingly, 65% of HNWIs in Asia Pacific and nearly 90% of Gen Z respondents hold Visa Infinite or equivalent premium cards. When choosing a card, 36% say they prioritise how well the card fits their lifestyle and personal needs, more than those who choose based on rewards (27%) or cashback (24%).
Visa Thailand, Head of Product & Value-Added Services Angsumalin Fordham said: “Visa is committed to offering affluent Thai consumers personalised and valuable benefits that extend beyond traditional rewards. Today’s premium experience encompasses seamless and meaningful interactions, whether at home or abroad. With the updated Visa Signature and Infinite cards, we provide protection, convenience, and exclusive perks such as travel insurance and 24/7 concierge support. As Thai cardholders increase their outbound travel spend, particularly to Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea, we are proud to support them with secure, borderless payments and curated benefits that enhance their journey.”
Affluent spending trends
Affluent Thai consumers are shifting toward a more intentional way of spending, carefully balancing practical needs with a desire for experience-driven lifestyles. Visa’s latest data highlights this trend, showing steady growth in spending year-over-year: a 10.2% increase in January 2025 compared to the previous year, rising to 13.4% in February and peaking at an impressive 17.7% in March.
The top five categories by transaction volume among affluent cardholders are transportation, food and grocery, quick-service restaurants, restaurants, and fuel. However, when it comes to big-ticket purchases, they prioritise long-term value and security, channelling high ticket-size purchases into insurance, professional services, education, and airlines.
The outbound spending behaviour of Thailand’s affluent class takes on a distinctly experience-led character, with their top destinations being Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and France.
Dining out remains the leading category by transaction volume, followed by food and grocery, retail goods, and quick service restaurants. Interestingly, entertainment ranks 10th, pointing to a growing desire for leisure and cultural engagement during international trips, from exclusive pre-sale access to music concerts and theatre to live experiences.
Yet even as they indulge, affluent travellers continue to be measured in their spending. The highest average ticket sizes abroad are observed in categories such as insurance, healthcare, automotive, apparel and accessories, and vehicle rental.
Visa Infinite cardholders in Thailand can elevate their travel experiences with premium benefits, including 30% off Agoda bookings and 20% off stays with IHG and Accor hotel groups, offering flexibility across both independent and luxury hotel options.
Travellers can enjoy 20% off at select food and beverage outlets across seven key airports in five cities — Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, and Incheon.
SINGAPORE, 25 June 2025: AirAsia X celebrated its growing presence in Central Asia with the announcement of a brand new route to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, unlocking new adventures in Central Asia after Almaty, Kazakhstan, for Singaporeans via ‘Fly-Thru’ services in Kuala Lumpur.
Starting from 15 October 2025, AAX will operate three weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Tashkent. Travellers from Singapore will be able to access the route by choosing one of 11 daily flights available between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
(L-R) Mohd Akbal Setia, Director of International Promotions for America, Europe and Oceania, Tourism Malaysia; Amanda Woo, Chief Commercial Officer, AirAsia Aviation Group; Chua Choon Hwa; Deputy Secretary-General (Tourism) of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture; Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X; His Excellency Karomidin Gadoev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Malaysia; Dato’ Fam Lee Ee, Non-Independent Non-Executive Chairman of AirAsia X and Ikhlas Kamarudin, CEO of Ikhlas.com.
Following AAX’s entry into the region with Almaty, Kazakhstan, in early 2024, with a consistently strong load factor and increased flight frequencies, the Tashkent route aims further to facilitate air travel between Southeast Asia and Central Asia, fostering stronger trade, tourism, and business ties between the regions.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said: “The launch of our Kuala Lumpur-Tashkent route is a strategic milestone in AAX’s continued growth across Asia and beyond. Central Asia presents immense potential, with Uzbekistan’s economy growing steadily and a rising middle class eager to explore new destinations. We have seen a strong and growing demand for Central Asia following our successful Almaty route, and our vision is to create a comprehensive network that supports regional development and also connects people to these less-explored destinations whilst creating unforgettable travel experiences along the way. This year, as of May, Almaty has quickly emerged as one of the top Fly-Thru destinations from Singapore, contributing to more than 10% of the overall load.”
As AAX expands its foray into Central Asia, opening up more adventurous travel opportunities for Singaporeans to explore the stunning city of Uzbekistan, the airline is offering special promotional fares flying from Singapore to Tashkent via Fly-Thru in Kuala Lumpur, from as low as SGD391* all-in-one way. The promotional fares are available for booking on the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com until 6 July 2025, for travel between 15 October 2025 and 14 September 2026.
Nestled in the heart of Uzbekistan, its capital, Tashkent, is a thriving city renowned for its majestic Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, and lush parks. As the country’s largest city and economic hub, Tashkent boasts a growing tourism sector and expanding business opportunities, making it an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and commerce.
Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Tashkent (TAS):
*All-in-one way fares start from SGD391 and are inclusive of passenger service charges, regulatory charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. T&C apply.
DOHA, Qatar, 25 June 2025: Qatar Airways confirmed on Tuesday the reinstatement of flights to and from its home base, Doha, following the reopening of airspace in the State of Qatar
In a press statement released on 24 June, it said the “focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly.”
Photo credit: Qatar Airways.
The airline reported it is working with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to restore operations as quickly as possible.
“We have also deployed additional ground staff at Hamad International Airport and other key airports to assist affected passengers by minimising disruptions and offering the utmost care and support to all customers.
“As operations resume, we anticipate significant delays to our flight schedule and advise passengers to check qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways mobile application ahead of travel.”
Reports confirm Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, Qatar, is currently operational on 24 June following a temporary suspension of flights on Monday, 23 June 2025, due to the closure of Qatari airspace following escalating regional tensions and an Iranian missile attack on a US military base in Qatar.
The airport is working to clear the backlog of hundreds of cancelled or diverted flights.
Passengers are strongly advised to check the latest updates directly with airlines or consult the official website of Hamad International Airport (dohahamadairport.com) for the most current flight information before travelling to the airport.
Flights disrupted to Doha and Dubai
Based on information available from the past 24 hours, the following airlines have yet to confirm the resumption of flights to and from Doha and Dubai.
Emirates: Due to the regional situation, some Emirates flights were rerouted en route to Dubai on 23 June, but there were no diversions. After a thorough and careful risk assessment, Emirates will continue to operate flights as scheduled, using flight paths well distanced from conflict areas. Some flights may incur delays due to longer re‑routings or airspace congestion.
American Airlines has not yet fully resumed flights to Doha.
Finnair suspends flights to Doha until 30 June.
United Airlines paused daily service between Newark Liberty International Airport and Dubai (a major hub often linked with Doha travel) and stated it would resume “when it’s safe.”
Air Canada has suspended its daily non-stop service from Toronto to Dubai and has warned the suspension could be extended.
Air India suspended all operations to the Middle East, as well as flights to the east coast of North America and Europe.
Kuwait Airways suspended flight departures from Kuwait temporarily on 23 June 23, impacting Doha connections.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has cancelled all flights from Pakistan to Qatar, Bahrain, Dubai, and Kuwait until further notice.
Iberia scrapped a plan to resume flights to Doha on 24 June after the latest airspace closures.
KUCHING, 24 June 2025: The second annual Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2025 concluded in Kuching last week, bringing together young changemakers, environmental leaders, and indigenous voices from around the world to collaborate on building a greener, more equitable world.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak YB Karim Hamzah believes RAYS has the potential to grow into a global movement to empower and nurture a generation of responsible global citizens who lead climate action while staying true to their cultural heritage, BESarawak reported in a Facebook post.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak, YB Karim Hamzah.
The minister expressed his profound belief “in the power of youth and promise of culture,” which set an inspiring tone for the summit’s dialogues and initiatives.
The event was opened by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah – Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts.
Also in attendance at the Rainforest Youth Summit 2025 (RAYS 2025) were: YB Dato Dennis Ngau – Chairman of Sarawak Tourism Board; YB Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat – Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports & Entrepreneur Development; YB Datuk Sebastian Ting – Deputy Minister for Tourism, Sarawak; YB Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu – Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports & Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak (Youth and Sports Development); Puan Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor – CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board
The Pacific Asia Travel Association CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid, who also joined the 18-20 June event, noted in a LinkedIn post that “this year’s Summit was more vibrant than ever, bringing together nearly 700 passionate youth from across ASEAN and beyond. We look forward to continued collaboration with STB and RAYS in the years ahead.”
HONG KONG, 24 June 2025: Hong Kong’s top travel show ITE2025 concluded last week, having made significant strides to enhance visitor quality and quantity, both travel consumers and trade visitors.
The fifth live edition since 2021 (post-COVID-19 pandemic) ITE2025 convened from 12 to 15 June at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The first two days focused on trade visitors, of whom over half were non-Hong Kong residents before the show doors opened to travel consumers.
Photo credit ITE2025. Selling a weekend Getaway to Korea.
Launched nearly 40 years ago, this year’s edition co-located the 39th ITE Leisure and the 20th ITE MICE, prompting the Hong Kong government to designate the show as a “mega event”.
Trade days attracted 7626 buyers and trade visitors, up 8.6%. Geographically, 46.8% hailed from Hong Kong, 33% from the Chinese Mainland and 20.2% from overseas.
In particular, there was a strong turnout of trade visitors from the Greater Bay Area cities, both individuals and official delegations from travel trade associations. 45.7% of trade visitors (travel agents or tour operators), 15.3% MICE/corporate, and 6.1% media.
Show organiser TKS Exhibition Services noted that the increase in visitors was partly due to the high profile of international exhibitors, who made up 90% of the show space, and the addition of 135 informative trade and public seminar sessions. The show statistics indicated that 502 exhibitors from 64 countries participated in ITE2025.
Organised by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd, the annual event is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, China, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Macau Government Tourism Office and the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong.
The next ITE Hong Kong will be held from 11 to 14 June 11 2026 at Halls 1 and 2 of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
COLOMBO, 24 June 2025: Skålleagues across Asia and beyond are heading to the highly anticipated 54th SKÅL Asia Area Congress, set to take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from Thursday, 26 June to Sunday, 29 June, 2025.
Hosted by SKÅL International Colombo, this year’s event has already attracted record registered delegates and partners, including a strong showing from Thailand, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and throughout Asia including a record-breaking 100+ attendees from India.
A Global Network
SKÅL International, the world’s largest and oldest global tourism association, currently has 12,120 members in 296 clubs across 79 countries, according to the latest data on https://www.skal.org. The Colombo Congress offers a unique opportunity for members to connect, collaborate, and celebrate tourism through friendship.
A Regional Draw
Interest in this year’s Congress is especially strong because the 2025 SKÅL World Congress is being held in Peru — a long-haul and often costly journey for many Asian members. Travel from Bangkok to Cusco spans over 19,000 kilometres (approx. 11,800 miles) and takes 24 to 26 hours, compared to the four hours of flying time to Colombo. This convenience has made the Asia Area Congress a top priority on the Skål calendar.
Host Hotel
The official Congress Headquarters Hotel is the Taj Samudra Colombo, a premier five-star property located along Galle Face Green.
Programme Highlights: Four Days of Culture, Networking & Celebration
Thursday, 26 June – Arrivals & Welcome
• All-day arrivals and hotel transfers
• 0800: Registration opens at Taj Samudra
• 0900: SKÅL Asia Board Meeting (Regency Room)
• 1930: Welcome Party on the North Lawn.
Friday, 27 June – Ceremony, B2B & Culture
• 0845: Opening Ceremony at Samudra Ballroom
• 1230: Group Photo (North Lawn)
• 1245: Lunch (Crystal Ballroom)
• 1300: B2B Networking with top Sri Lankan DMCs
• 1530: Depart for High Tea at Lotus Tower
• 1915: Cultural Sri Lankan Dinner at Nuga Gama, Cinnamon Grand.
Saturday, 28 June – Assembly, Legacy & Gala Night
• 0900: 54th SKÅL Asia Annual General Assembly
• 1215: Tree Planting Ceremony (Taj Gardens)
• 1230: Lunch hosted by SKÅL Macau
• 1330: Club Presidents’ Meeting (Gregory Room)
• 1500: Colombo City Tour
• 2000: Gala Dinner at Taj Grand Marquee
About the Author Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based travel writer, hotelier, and Skålleague with more than 30 years of experience in Asian tourism. He is a former President of SKÅL Bangkok, SKÅL Thailand, SKÅL Asia and a Director of SI. Originally from Yorkshire UK, Andrew is a passionate advocate of using travel and tourism to foster global understanding and lasting friendships.
LANG CO, Vietnam, 24 June 2025: Laguna Golf Lang Co has once again affirmed its status as one of Asia’s premier golf experiences, earning a coveted place in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia list.
The accolade was announced at the prestigious Asia Golf Awards Ceremony hosted by the Asia Golf Leaders Forum (AGLF) in South Korea.
The 9th is one of the most spectacular holes at Laguna Golf Lang Co.
The award is the latest in a growing list of international honours for the championship layout, which has consistently drawn acclaim since its opening. The club, set within the larger Laguna Lang Co integrated resort, has been recognised for its outstanding course design, environmental sustainability, and overall guest experience.
“We’re thrilled to be recognised among the top golf courses in Asia,” said Laguna Golf Lang Co Director of Golf Stephen Bank. “This award is a reflection of the passion, consistency, and attention to detail that our team puts into maintaining world-class standards both on and off the course. It’s also a tribute to the vision of Sir Nick Faldo, whose design continues to challenge and inspire players from around the world.”
Over the years, Laguna Golf Lang Co has earned numerous accolades, including “Vietnam’s Best Golf Resort” at the World Golf Awards, Top 10 Best Golf Resorts in Asia Pacific by Golf Travel Magazine, and multiple certifications for environmental and agronomic excellence. Its innovative “edible golf course” initiative—where rice paddies tended by resident water buffalo are integrated into the course landscape—has also gained global recognition as a model of sustainable golf tourism.
The Asia Top 100 ranking, compiled by leading golf media, professionals, and influencers across the continent, highlights courses that exemplify excellence in design, playability, conditioning, and service.
Beyond the fairways, Laguna Lang Co offers a rich, multifaceted resort experience. Guests can unwind at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, dine at a selection of acclaimed restaurants offering Vietnamese and international cuisine, or explore the surrounding region via curated cultural excursions to nearby Hue Imperial City and Bach Ma National Park.
“This destination has become so much more than a golf course,” added Banks. “Laguna Lang Co is about world-class play but also world-class hospitality, culture, and nature. We’re proud to be part of Vietnam’s rise as one of Asia’s must-visit golf and lifestyle destinations.”
HONG KONG, 24 June 2025: Following the announcement of Star Voyager’s extended deployment in Hong Kong through 14 November 2025, StarCruises is unveiling a line-up of new and popular itineraries.
Driven by strong and positive demand, the sailings offer guests more options to explore popular and captivating destinations across East and Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Sanya.
Photo credit: StarCruises.
Sailing weekly from Hong Kong Ocean Terminal, Star Voyager will now offer 45 sailings during its more than five-month homeport stay in Hong Kong. This extended season builds on the original 21 cruises scheduled from 27 June to 29 August, with 24 additional voyages running from 31 August to 14 November.
Ranging from two to five-night journeys, the cruises are expected to further boost demand from the Hong Kong and Mainland China markets, as well as the international Fly-Cruise segment.
Star Voyager cruises from Hong Kong are bundled with a 10% discount on the new itineraries, available for extended sailings from 31 August to 14 November 2025.
