Bitcoin News Today: Thailand Launches Crypto Travel System Boosting BTC and ETH Use by 13% in July

The adoption of cryptocurrency in the global travel sector has seen a notable surge, with countries such as Slovenia, Singapore, and Thailand leading the charge. As of 2025, over 100 cryptocurrencies are now accepted for travel bookings, with platforms like Travala and CryptoXpress playing a pivotal role in expanding the use of digital assets for flights, hotel reservations, and tour bookings [6]. This shift has led to a noticeable uptick in the usage of major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and AVA, as consumers and service providers integrate them into their financial workflows [1].

Thailand has emerged as a key player in this movement with the launch of TouristDigiPay, a crypto payment system designed for international travelers. The platform allows tourists to pay for goods and services using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins, which are converted into Thai baht via a QR code-based process. This system eliminates the need for traditional currency exchange and offers a low-cost alternative to credit card fees, aiming to attract a new generation of tech-savvy travelers [6]. The system is supported by a Tourist Wallet that enables users to convert crypto into Thai baht and link their foreign bank accounts for seamless fund management [6].

The expansion of crypto-based travel solutions is not limited to Thailand. The United Arab Emirates has also seen a rise in cryptocurrency adoption, with major airlines and travel platforms beginning to accept digital currencies to enhance the customer experience [7]. These developments highlight the growing recognition of crypto’s efficiency and cost advantages, not only for tourists but also for merchants seeking faster transaction times and lower fees.

From a financial perspective, the increased use of crypto in travel has broadened the utility of major cryptocurrencies. This trend has coincided with a 13% growth in the broader crypto market in July 2025, as investors have begun to shift capital into altcoins and tokenized assets [8]. While Bitcoin recently hit a record high of $124,000, it has since retraced to around $115,000 amid a consolidation phase [1], indicating ongoing volatility despite the sector’s broader expansion.

Technological innovation is also playing a key role in supporting the crypto travel ecosystem. Projects like Etherisc are developing blockchain-based solutions such as decentralized travel insurance, which could redefine the insurance landscape in the coming years by providing more transparent and secure coverage for travelers [6]. This integration of blockchain technology into travel services is helping to address concerns around trust and reliability, which are often barriers to adoption.

Despite the momentum, challenges remain. The digital literacy of local vendors, particularly among older business owners, could slow the adoption of crypto payments. Additionally, while stablecoins offer a buffer against crypto’s volatility, they still require merchants to navigate a new financial ecosystem. Regulatory clarity will also be essential as the program expands beyond Thailand and into other markets [6].

Thailand’s regulatory environment has been a key enabler of crypto adoption, with policies such as the authorization of stablecoins and the removal of taxes on individual digital asset sales fostering a favorable climate for both tourists and businesses [6]. This proactive approach aligns with the country’s broader vision of becoming a leader in digital tourism and may inspire similar initiatives in other countries as they observe the success of TouristDigiPay.

The ongoing development of crypto travel services is attracting a growing user base and subtly influencing global economic dynamics. As more regions embrace digital currency for tourism-related transactions, the travel industry is witnessing a transformation that could reshape how consumers and businesses interact with financial systems worldwide.

Sources:

[1] title1: Bitcoin drops 5% to $115K in one week. Here's why, (url1: https://m.economictimes.com/markets/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-drops-5-to-115k-in-one-week-heres-why/articleshow/123358828.cms)

[6] title6: Thailand Revolutionizes Travel with Crypto Payments for an Effortless Vacation: Here’s What Travellers Need to Know, (url6: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/thailand-revolutionizes-travel-with-crypto-payments-for-an-effortless-vacation-heres-what-travellers-need-to-know/)

[7] title7: Bitcoin News Today: UAE Airlines and Travel Platforms Expand Crypto Payment Options, (url7: https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-uae-airlines-travel-platforms-expand-crypto-payment-options-2508/)

[8] title8: Altcoins, Stablecoins, Tokenized Stocks Drive July's Crypto..., (url8: https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/altcoins-stablecoins-tokenized-stocks-drive-130000628.html)