ITE HCMC 2024, the 18th edition of the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City, promises to be an unparalleled platform for international and Vietnamese tourism businesses to connect and explore the latest trends and innovations in the industry. With a focus on sustainable tourism practices and digital transformation, the expo will feature a host of in-person and online components, showcasing the diverse offerings of the international travel market.
As Israel faces ongoing conflict, it is essential to not only achieve military victory but also emerge socially and economically stronger. The transformation of the northern and southern regions into thriving hubs is crucial. This vision requires a bold departure from past practices, embracing a holistic approach that can revitalize these communities. The plan includes affordable housing, education and employment opportunities, community building, and tourism development. By implementing these strategic initiatives, Israel can recover and enhance its position as a dynamic, innovative nation, transforming the North and South into thriving economic and cultural hubs.
The World Bank has suspended funding for a controversial tourism project in Tanzania following accusations of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and sexual assaults against local villagers. The project, known as REGROW, has been tied to a cascade of human rights abuses, according to the Oakland Institute, a California-based advocacy group. The Tanzanian government’s plans included work aimed at nearly doubling the size of Ruaha National Park (RUNAPA), the largest protected wildlife area in the country, from one million to over two million hectares. However, the expansion plans have led to the forced eviction of over 21,000 people without compensation or other land. Despite the allegations, luxury tourist options for visiting the park continue to abound. The World Bank’s suspension of funding comes after years of pressure from the Oakland Institute and local villagers. The Oakland Institute has called the decision “long overdue” and said it sends a message to the Tanzanian government that there are consequences for its human rights abuses.
New Brunswick’s Minister of Tourism, Tammy Scott-Wallace, faced questions about Deputy Minister Yennah Hurley’s expenses, including over $19,000 in moving costs. The expenses, which were incurred when Hurley relocated from Quispamsis to Fredericton, include a $15,000 real estate commission and $3,550 for movers. Green Leader David Coon and Liberal MLA Rene Légacy criticized the expenses, arguing that taxpayers should not be paying for the moving costs of government employees. Premier Blaine Higgs has stated that the executive council office will be reviewing policies on overseas travel expenses.
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) owners in Prince Edward Island (PEI) will soon be required to pay a $50 annual registration fee, with 80% of the funds going towards ATV trail development. The trail will run from one end of the Island to the other and is expected to attract tourists and boost the local ATV economy.
Two bills are advancing in the Hawaii legislature that would give counties the authority to regulate and potentially phase out short-term rentals. Proponents argue that this would alleviate the state’s severe housing crisis, where local residents face skyrocketing costs and homelessness. However, opponents, including homeowners who rent out units and rental platforms, express concerns about financial losses. The bills come amid growing urgency following the Maui wildfires, which displaced thousands of families. If passed, the final decision on phasing out short-term rentals would be up to county officials within a reasonable timeframe.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant of Goa has outlined his vision for improving public transportation in the state, aiming to enhance connectivity and accessibility for residents and tourists alike.
Leading tour operator and airline Jet2 suggests a potential slowdown in the surge of holiday prices witnessed post-pandemic. Despite a modest rise in costs for summer trips compared to 2022, competition in the sector is intensifying, resulting in more competitive deals, especially for April and May departures. The company experienced a 13% increase in package holiday bookings and an 18% rise in flight-only bookings year-over-year, indicating a healthy demand. Jet2 has purchased a significant portion of its fuel for the upcoming season, mitigating the impact of potential oil price fluctuations. The airline anticipates a pre-tax profit for the year ending March 2024 to be approximately one-third higher than the previous year.
Sri Lanka has officially announced its intention to join the BRICS group of nations, seeking to leverage the economic and security benefits offered by the emerging alliance of non-Western economies. Speaking to reporters, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage affirmed the country’s plans to join BRICS+ and expressed optimism that it would strengthen both transport and food security. BRICS, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has recently witnessed significant expansion, welcoming Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, and the UAE as members. Sri Lanka’s membership pursuit is part of a growing trend, with countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Thailand, and Pakistan also expressing interest in joining the group.
Plans are being considered to extend the scenic Wild Atlantic Way driving route into Northern Ireland, with the aim of attracting more tourists to the region. The Wild Atlantic Way currently stretches for over 1,600 miles along Ireland’s west coast, offering breathtaking coastal views and rich cultural experiences. The potential extension would connect the Wild Atlantic Way to the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, linking up popular attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway.
