Tel Aviv, a vibrant Mediterranean city, is experiencing a surge in international travel thanks to a new visa-free policy allowing Israelis to visit 170 countries. This transformative policy has made Tel Aviv a key gateway for global exploration, attracting travelers seeking a blend of modern city life, ancient history, and diverse landscapes.
The Sarawak Tourism Board and Sabah Tourism Board have launched a joint initiative, ‘Discover Borneo: Malaysia’s Favorite Destination,’ at the MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur 2024. This partnership aims to promote Borneo as a unified destination, showcasing the diverse attractions of both states and facilitating easier travel between them. The initiative has already seen significant success in boosting tourism revenue, particularly within the domestic market.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has received the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA) 2024 for its successful media campaign promoting the Kingdom as a top global tourist destination. The award acknowledges the Ministry’s efforts in highlighting the country’s cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and readiness to welcome tourists. This recognition comes at a time when Saudi Arabia has achieved the milestone of welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023.
The United States continues to dominate the global travel and tourism industry, contributing a record $2.36 trillion in 2023. However, China is rapidly emerging as a tourism powerhouse, expected to overtake the US as the largest travel market within the next decade. The report highlights the evolving nature of global tourism, with emerging markets making substantial gains while traditional leaders maintain their presence.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has opened its second Ginger hotel in Jammu and Kashmir, offering a modern and comfortable stay experience in Srinagar. The new hotel, Ginger Srinagar, Barzulla, features 64 rooms and is conveniently located near the airport and popular tourist attractions. It also features a signature all-day dining restaurant, Qmin, offering a variety of cuisines. This latest addition brings IHCL’s total hotel count in Jammu and Kashmir to six.
Following a devastating landslide in Wayanad, the Kerala High Court has directed the state government to assess the carrying capacity of all hill stations in Kerala and submit a report by October 25. The court emphasized the need for sustainable tourism management in these fragile ecosystems to prevent further disasters and protect the environment.
Barcelona, a European tourist hotspot, is experiencing a surge in visitor numbers, leading to growing concerns among residents about the impact on their quality of life. While tourism contributes significantly to the city’s economy, locals are increasingly dissatisfied with the pressure on infrastructure and their daily lives. The city council has implemented measures to address the issue, but local organizations argue they are insufficient and demand stricter regulations.
Emperor Kangxi’s Grand Ceremony, an immersive live performance in Chengde City, China, has drawn record-breaking crowds this summer, solidifying its status as a cultural marvel. The show’s success has not only boosted tourism but also revitalized the surrounding commercial district, Dingsheng Yuanbao Street, creating a vibrant cultural hub.
AirAsia, known for its budget-friendly flights, is expanding its international network with a focus on ASEAN countries, aiming to boost tourism and connectivity within the region. The airline’s recent launch of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, is a prime example of this strategy, connecting travelers to emerging destinations and promoting economic development.
The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) successfully conducted roadshows in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, showcasing the island’s diverse attractions to Indian tour operators. The events, featuring a delegation of Mauritian partners, aimed to promote the destination’s unique offerings and cater to the preferences of Indian travelers.
