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International student arrivals to the U.S. on visas fell for the fourth consecutive month in July, dropping 28% year-on-year to under 79,000—the steepest decline so far in 2025. India and China, which together account for over half of U.S. international enrollments, were hardest hit, with arrivals down 46% and 26% respectively. This follows restrictive immigration measures, visa backlogs, and new social media background checks introduced under the Trump administration.

The downturn threatens U.S. universities financially, with projections of a 30% fall in new international enrollments this fall, potentially costing $2.6 billion in tuition revenue and $7 billion in broader economic impact, including 60,000 jobs. Despite a record 1.1 million international students in 2023–24, enrollment from March 2024 to March 2025 dropped 11%, according to SEVIS.

Policy disruptions, including paused interviews in May and stricter screening, worsened delays during peak application season. Students from India, China, Nigeria, and Japan face limited visa slots, leading many to abandon U.S. study plans. Analysts warn these ongoing hurdles could deliver long-term damage to U.S. higher education and local economies.

Tripadvisor's 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards highlight Vietnam across multiple categories, honoring Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, and Hoi An. The awards, based on global traveler reviews, have two levels: Best of the Best (top 1%) and Travelers' Choice (top 10%). Categories include Destinations, Beaches, Hotels, Things to Do, and Restaurants (2025 restaurant results pending).

In Destinations, Hanoi ranked seventh worldwide. Tripadvisor praises the capital for preserving history while embracing modern growth, from its old quarter and colonial landmarks to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Visitors are urged to explore by scooter or on foot and enjoy local flavors like banh mi, bun cha, and bia hoi.

In Hotels, two Vietnamese properties were honored. Grandvrio Ocean Resort Da Nang, located between Da Nang and Hoi An, was recognized for its beachfront setting, 54 pool villas, nearly 100 ocean-view rooms, three restaurants, and spa. La Siesta Classic Ma May in Hanoi offers boutique luxury in the old quarter with 50 rooms, family duplexes, spa, gym, and private movie room.

For Things to Do, a one-day Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi by Aloha Vietnam Travel & Guide was named among the “25th Anniversary Best Experiences in the World.” The 11-hour trip covers Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, and Bich Dong Pagoda, with small group sizes, limousine transfers, and meals. Travelers praised its balance of hiking, boating, and sightseeing.

These recognitions confirm Vietnam's growing global appeal, showcasing its cultural, culinary, and natural attractions.

Kim Tae Hee recently shared details about her relationship with singer-actor Rain in a tvN program, marking the first time she opened up about her marriage and children. The two met in 2012 when Rain, smitten at first sight, pursued her despite initial rejections. Kim admitted she had told him directly that he was not her type. However, Rain's persistence, honesty, and thoughtful gestures gradually changed her mind.

Rain courted her even during his military service, sending messages and inviting her to dinners. Though Kim worried at first that he might be flirtatious, his sincerity eventually won her heart. They married in 2017 and now have two daughters, aged eight and six, who Kim says amusingly resemble both parents in different ways.

Since their marriage, Kim has scaled back her acting career to prioritize family, appearing in only four projects in eight years, though she recently starred in the U.S.-produced drama Butterfly. Rain, meanwhile, has remained active in music and television. The couple is among South Korea's wealthiest celebrity families, owning luxury properties including a 92 billion won building Rain purchased in Seoul.

At 45, Kim is celebrated as one of South Korea's most beautiful actresses, famous for roles in Stairway to Heaven, Love Story in Harvard, and Hi Bye, Mama! Rain, 43, rose to international fame with Full House in 2003 and has twice been named to Time's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Bing Kee Cha Dong, a Hong Kong culinary landmark operating for over 70 years, has announced an indefinite suspension due to staff shortages. Known for its signature milk tea—once named by CNN among the city's top four—the eatery also gained fame after celebrity Eason Chan was frequently seen dining there.

As one of the last traditional tin-roofed dai pai dong-style stalls, Bing Kee became a nostalgic attraction for both locals and tourists. Opened in the 1950s selling Chinese pastries, it shifted in the 1970s to Hong Kong staples like milk tea, toast, instant noodles, and its renowned pork chop noodles.

Its closure reflects a broader trend this year, as many restaurants across Hong Kong have also shut down.

In Hanoi's O Cho Dua Ward, residents of Hang Chao Street have decorated their 300-meter street with 12,000 small national flags and three giant flags to celebrate Vietnam's National Day on Sept. 2. The effort began on Aug. 17 and involved around 250 households, who contributed money, tools, and labor. Each family initially donated VND100,000 ($4), raising about VND25 million, but costs exceeded VND30 million due to rising prices. Despite financial challenges, contributions ranged from small amounts to millions of dong per household, reflecting strong community spirit.

Residents say the decorations not only mark National Day but also build unity, especially after the ward merger. Many expressed pride in finishing the work on Aug. 19, coinciding with the anniversary of the People's Public Security, which holds personal significance for families with relatives in the force.

Preparations included surveying, designing, and hanging the flags despite heavy traffic challenges. Elderly residents like Chu Huu Thang and Nguyen Thuy Linh shared their joy at seeing the street filled with flags, while others said the project brought the neighborhood closer together.

The celebrations lead up to Vietnam's 80th National Day anniversary, with a major pageant at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi. Over 15,600 military personnel, including infantry, mechanized, naval, and air forces, will participate, alongside delegations from Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, and Belarus. The event commemorates the August Revolution and Ho Chi Minh's 1945 declaration of independence.