BWH Hotels has reopened the Best Western Plus Hotel Subic in the Philippines following a major refurbishment.
The hotel, which has been part of the BWH Hotels portfolio since 2018, is located in Subic Bay – a freeport zone and resort destination approximately 2.5 hours from Manila. The updated property now features revamped interiors, upgraded amenities, and enhanced event spaces.
The renovation includes new-look king and twin rooms, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a sea-facing rooftop pool and deck, and a fitness centre. Dining options have also been refreshed with two restaurants serving local and international cuisine. The hotel’s events hall is now positioned to cater to both business and social functions, including weddings.
“We are thrilled to welcome guests back to Best Western Plus Hotel Subic following the property’s major refurbishment,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels. “With its prime location in the heart of this emerging destination, including a spectacular pool deck and sea views, this is set to become the hotel-of-choice for local and overseas visitors to Subic Bay, including our global network of Best Western Rewards members.”
The Subic hotel is part of BWH Hotels’ growing presence in the Philippines, which includes six hotels and resorts in cities and resort areas such as Clark, Panglao, and Puerto Princesa.
Home»Airlines News of Thailand» Thailand Sets the Stage for a Tourism and Aviation Surge with VietJet’s Massive Hiring Drive and New International Routes Across Asia
Published on
August 7, 2025 |
By: TTW News Desk
Thailand is rapidly advancing its position as a regional aviation powerhouse, backed by VietJet Thailand’s aggressive expansion strategy in 2025. As Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destination rebounds from the pandemic and strengthens its infrastructure, VietJet is stepping in to meet soaring travel demand by opening over 5,000 new positions across aviation roles—ranging from pilots and engineers to cabin crew and ground staff. At the same time, the airline is rolling out a slate of new direct routes from Bangkok to major Asian destinations including Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. This dual strategy not only supports Thailand’s long-term goal to become the leading air travel hub in the region, but also fuels economic growth, boosts employment, and enhances cross-border connectivity just as international tourism to the country surges once again.
Thailand Set to Welcome Over 5,000 New Aviation Jobs as VietJet Expands Regional Operations Across Asia
Thailand’s aviation sector is preparing for a significant hiring surge as VietJet Thailand, the local arm of Vietnam’s leading budget airline, gears up to recruit more than 5,000 new employees in 2025. The expansion drive is directly tied to the airline’s ambitious plans to grow its presence in Southeast Asia’s most visited destination, positioning Thailand as a regional aviation hub.
The announcement signals a strategic leap by VietJet to strengthen its Thai operations with a wave of new flight routes to high-demand cities across Asia. The airline will roll out several new direct flights to destinations in Japan, South Korea, and India by the end of this year, seeking to capture a larger share of the booming regional travel market.
In a statement released late Wednesday, VietJet confirmed that it will begin offering new international routes from Bangkok to Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad in the coming months. These routes mark a crucial expansion of the airline’s network beyond its existing short-haul offerings, signaling a broader push into long-haul, high-traffic routes linking Thailand with the rest of Asia.
Thailand’s Aviation Ambitions Receive Major Boost
VietJet’s move aligns closely with Thailand’s national agenda to become Southeast Asia’s premier air travel gateway. As the third-largest economy in the region, Thailand is aggressively upgrading its airport infrastructure in a bid to draw more airlines and travelers. Airport expansion projects in key hubs such as Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, along with upgrades at Phuket and Chiang Mai international airports, are already underway.
VietJet is one of several regional carriers responding to this opportunity. Thai Airways International Pcl and Asia Aviation Pcl, the operator of Thai AirAsia, have also added new international routes to their schedules, underscoring a wider industry trend of ramping up regional connectivity to meet surging passenger demand.
Massive Hiring Campaign Underway
To support its new flight offerings, VietJet Thailand has initiated a large-scale recruitment campaign across multiple departments. The company is hiring pilots, cabin crew, engineers, technicians, and ground support staff to meet operational requirements for the newly announced routes. While VietJet did not disclose the current size of its workforce, the hiring target of 5,000 new employees marks one of the airline’s most ambitious staffing efforts to date.
The decision to boost hiring in Thailand also reflects renewed confidence in the post-pandemic recovery of regional travel. As tourism demand rebounds, airlines are finding it essential to increase capacity, add new connections, and rebuild staffing levels that were significantly reduced during the global health crisis.
Financial Turnaround Fuels Expansion
The expansion into new routes and workforce growth comes on the heels of an impressive financial rebound by VietJet Thailand. According to data from Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce, the airline posted a net profit of 64 million baht (approximately \$1.98 million USD) in 2024. This represents a significant reversal from the 3.6 billion baht loss the airline recorded in 2023.
Revenues also saw a substantial leap, rising by 45% year-on-year to reach 19 billion baht. This strong financial performance appears to have paved the way for the airline’s current expansion efforts and strategic investment in infrastructure and personnel.
New Routes to Connect Thailand with Key Asian Cities
The rollout of VietJet’s new regional routes begins this fall and will be phased in through the end of the year:
Nonstop Flight from Bangkok to Seoul Set to Launch on October 1 as Part of VietJet’s Asia Expansion
Bangkok to Osaka (Japan) – Launching December 1
Bangkok to Tokyo Narita (Japan) – Beginning December 15
Bangkok to Kolkata (India) – Starting November 16 Nonstop Bangkok to Ahmedabad Flight Set to Launch December 4 with VietJet Thailand
These additions are expected to not only increase passenger volume through Thailand but also boost economic ties with key tourism and business markets across Asia.
Legal Disputes Resolved
The airline’s latest strategic moves also follow a legal resolution in the UK. A London judge recently denied a motion by investment firm FitzWalter Capital Ltd. to freeze VietJet’s global assets in a dispute over unpaid fees. The decision removes a potential hurdle that could have impacted VietJet’s overseas operations and expansion plans.
Thailand is stepping up as a regional aviation leader with VietJet launching over 5,000 new jobs and expanding nonstop flights to major Asian cities, supporting the nation’s push to become Southeast Asia’s premier air hub.
Outlook Bright for Thailand’s Aviation Sector
With strong financial backing, growing regional demand, and government support for infrastructure upgrades, Thailand’s aviation industry is entering a new phase of accelerated growth. VietJet Thailand’s expansion, both in terms of routes and workforce, places it at the center of this transformation, signaling a competitive push to redefine regional air travel through Thailand as a central hub.
Home»ASIA» China, Malaysia, India, Russia, and South Korea Lead the Way as Bangkok Tops Global Travel Lists for Summer 2025
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Author: TTW News Desk
As summer 2025 draws near, Bangkok has once again emerged as one of the top global travel destinations, with travelers from China, Malaysia, India, Russia, and South Korea driving the surge in bookings. These countries are leading the charge due to a combination of factors: Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and exceptional hospitality, which continue to attract visitors seeking both authentic experiences and luxury. The Thai capital’s appeal lies in its unique ability to blend vibrant street culture with world-class shopping, historic landmarks, and sustainability-focused tourism practices. As Bangkok secures its position at the top of global travel lists, the influx of tourists from these regions underscores the city’s enduring popularity despite global challenges.
A City That Blends Tradition and Modernity
Bangkok’s lasting popularity is a testament to its ability to blend its rich cultural heritage with modern conveniences. From ancient temples and palaces to cutting-edge shopping malls and vibrant nightlife, the city offers a diverse array of experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers. Visitors come for the authentic street food culture, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, while also enjoying world-class hotels, restaurants, and shopping destinations.
In addition to its cultural draw, Bangkok is known for its high standards of service and international safety protocols, ensuring that travelers from all over the world can experience the city with confidence. This combination of heritage, modernity, and hospitality makes Bangkok a unique and enduring favorite for global travelers.
Experiential and Sustainable Travel Trends
The growing demand for experiential travel is a key factor behind Bangkok’s continued success. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer more than just sightseeing—they are looking for deeper cultural connections and opportunities to engage with local traditions. Bangkok excels in this regard, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the city’s history and culture while still enjoying the convenience and luxury of modern amenities.
Moreover, Bangkok has positioned itself as a sustainable travel destination, promoting responsible tourism practices. Efforts to protect the city’s natural and cultural resources are part of a broader push by the Thai government to ensure that tourism growth does not come at the expense of the environment or local communities. This focus on sustainability has resonated with travelers who are more conscious about their environmental impact.
Thailand’s tourism statistics further highlight Bangkok’s status as a top global destination. From January 1 to August 3, 2025, the country welcomed over 19.6 million international visitors, with Bangkok continuing to be the most popular entry point. The top countries sending tourists to Thailand this year include:
China: 2,733,160 visitors
Malaysia: 2,700,103 visitors
India: 1,390,693 visitors
Russia: 1,124,467 visitors
South Korea: 918,372 visitors
China’s return to the top spot reflects a rebound in outbound travel from the region, following the lifting of pandemic restrictions. This resurgence in Chinese tourists is significant for Thailand, which has long been a favored destination for travelers from China. The steady influx of visitors from other regions, including Malaysia, India, and South Korea, further demonstrates Bangkok’s widespread appeal across Asia and beyond.
Promoting Thailand as a Global Tourism Leader
The Thai government continues to play a key role in maintaining Bangkok’s status as a leading global tourism destination. A focus on promoting sustainable tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local businesses is central to the country’s tourism strategy. Through initiatives that prioritize responsible tourism and environmental protection, Thailand is ensuring that its tourism sector grows in a way that benefits both travelers and local communities.
Additionally, the government has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing Bangkok’s image as a safe, modern, and culturally rich city that offers an exceptional travel experience. With ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services, Bangkok is positioning itself to remain at the forefront of global travel trends.
A Vibrant and Resilient Bangkok
Although Bangkok is commonly linked with heavy traffic and bustling streets, the city’s enduring appeal is evident in its ability to remain a leading destination for global travelers. Whether it’s exploring ancient temples, enjoying world-class shopping, or indulging in its diverse culinary scene, Bangkok offers something for everyone. The city’s ability to adapt to the changing demands of global travelers while staying true to its cultural roots ensures that it remains an exciting and relevant destination for years to come.
As global tourism continues to recover, Bangkok stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of destinations that offer a rich cultural experience, modern amenities, and a commitment to sustainability. The city’s success in attracting millions of visitors, despite the challenges of recent years, reflects its unique ability to evolve and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Tourists from China, Malaysia, India, Russia, and South Korea are driving Bangkok’s rise as one of the top global destinations for summer 2025, thanks to its rich culture, modern amenities, and focus on sustainable tourism.
In 2025, Bangkok continues to be a beacon of cultural richness, hospitality, and innovation, making it one of the most exciting places to visit for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Home»VISA AND PASSPORT NEWS» 2025 Travel Breakthrough: Top Asian Passports with Verified Visa-Free Access, All You Need to Know
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Author: TTW News Desk
As global mobility steadily recovers and expands in 2025, certain Asian passports have become key enablers of seamless international travel, offering unparalleled visa-free access to a growing number of destinations. Supported by government-issued visa exemption agreements, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong SAR are leaders in the international community with regards to visa-free access. This document analyzes how the leading Asian passports are transforming travel in 2025, drawing from credible sources, including government ministries and consular officials.
Japan continues to be a leader in visa-free access, with entry to 72 countries and regions as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Japanese nationals enjoy short-term visa-free access to key regions across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Furthermore, Japan’s reciprocal visa recognition agreements with countries like Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea reinforce its role in fostering interconnected mobility within Asia.
The South Korean passport remains among the top-ranked in Asia, particularly due to its participation in official visa waiver programs, most notably with Japan and ASEAN member states. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea does not publish a complete list, Japan officially recognizes South Korea as a visa-exempt country, providing visa-free access to its citizens. Additionally, the temporary waiver of the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) through 2025 further enhances South Korea’s travel prospects.
The Singaporean passport holds a significant place among Asia’s most powerful travel documents, backed by an extensive network of bilateral agreements. Although a consolidated list is not available, countries such as Japan and members of the European Union (EU) provide visa-free access for Singaporean passport holders. Singapore’s consistency in diplomacy and visa facilitation ensures its continued leadership in global mobility.
With visa-free access to over 180 countries, the Malaysian passport is another major player in Asia’s travel landscape. Official information from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows that Malaysian citizens hold visa exempt status which allows them to visit Japan for up to 90 days. This level of access granted reflects the strides made by ASEAN in facilitating travel within the region.
Although not part of East Asia, the UAE passport is a force to be reckoned with, offering visa-free access or visa-on-arrival access to more than 82 destinations globally, according to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The UAE’s strategic diplomatic policies continue to unlock new travel opportunities across Africa, Asia, and Europe, positioning it as a major hub for global mobility.
Hong Kong SAR, as part of China but with its own distinct global policies, continues to provide one of the most powerful passports in Asia. Official listings from the Japanese government confirm that Hong Kong passport holders enjoy visa-free access. This autonomy in travel agreements ensures that the Hong Kong SAR passport remains a highly mobile travel document in 2025.
The year 2025 sees top Asian passports continuing to dominate global mobility rankings. These passports, underpinned by transparent visa policies and government-to-government agreements, offer enhanced visa-free access to international travel. Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, UAE and Hong Kong SAR stand to receive tangible rewards from their strong international relations, placing their people ahead of the international travel renaissance. Through encouraged international visa-free travel, and consistent international relations, these countries serve as a model for the future of unimpeded travel in Asia and the rest of the world.
Government Sources:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA)
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea
Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia
UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Hong Kong SAR Government Official Travel Information
You must be logged in to post a comment Login