World Tourism Day on September 27th reminds us of tourism’s power to connect people and promote peace. This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Peace,’ highlights the industry’s role in fostering harmony between nations and cultures. In celebration, we explore some of the safest and most serene destinations around the globe, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a welcoming environment for travelers seeking tranquility and security.
The historic city of Evora in Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will introduce a tourist tax in 2025 to help preserve its ancient treasures and mitigate the effects of over-tourism. The tax will be collected from overnight visitors, with revenue allocated to heritage preservation, waste management, and tourism promotion. Certain groups, such as athletes, hospital patients, and non-profit organization members, will be exempt from the tax.
AirAsia Drone and GIT Academy, Malaysia’s leading tourist guide training institution, have announced a groundbreaking partnership to equip Licensed Tourist Guides with essential drone knowledge. This collaboration aims to enhance the professional capabilities of tourism professionals while promoting safety and compliance in the growing field of drone operations.
Leela Hotels, owned by Brookfield Asset Management, is set to expand its portfolio with eight new properties, adding 833 rooms by 2028. The company is also launching a ₹5,000 crore IPO to reduce debt and fuel growth, marking a significant move for the luxury hotel chain in India.
A new study by Upgraded Points reveals Frontier Airlines leads the pack in involuntary denied boardings, highlighting the airlines most likely to bump passengers. The study analyzed DOT data and surveyed travelers, offering insights into denied boarding rates and compensation expectations.
Get ready to be mesmerized by illumi, the world’s largest light and multimedia spectacle, debuting in Singapore in 2024. This immersive event, featuring 20 million LED lights and lifelike animatronic creatures, will transform Bayfront Event Space into a magical wonderland. Prepare to be captivated by nine themed worlds, including the world’s tallest Tree of Lights, and experience the extraordinary artistry of Cavalia, the creators of the renowned White Big Top show.
Switzerland is shifting its tourism strategy to attract Indian travelers throughout the year, promoting the country’s autumnal beauty and winter wonderland experiences. This shift aligns with global trends toward sustainable tourism and aims to create a more balanced visitor flow while offering unique experiences for Indian travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
South Korea’s autumn season is in full swing, and Seoul is abuzz with outdoor festivals offering a vibrant mix of cultural events, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. From movie screenings and stargazing to outdoor libraries and light installations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the cool autumn air.
AtlasGuru, a travel technology platform known for its AI-powered trip itineraries, has launched a revolutionary AI-to-Advisor tool alongside the upgraded Itinerary AI 2.0. This advancement combines AI-generated itineraries with expert travel advisors, offering a seamless and personalized travel experience across 125 countries.
China’s Qiandao Lake hosted the grand opening of the second Illuminate the World: Qiandao Lake International Biennale of Light Art and the Qiandao Lake Tunnel Art Museum, showcasing a captivating blend of art, technology, and nature. The biennale, exploring the theme ‘How Is Light?’, features innovative light installations that highlight the evolving role of light in society, while the tunnel art museum, China’s first, offers an immersive experience within its unique setting.
