VisitBritain is hosting a five-day trade mission across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane from September 9th to 13th, bringing together UK travel and tourism suppliers with Australian buyers. The mission aims to foster new partnerships, promote UK destinations, and capitalize on the growing popularity of screen tourism in Australia.
Florida, known for its LGBTQ+ friendly tourism hubs, has quietly removed the ‘LGBTQ Travel’ section from its official tourism website, Visit Florida. This move has sparked concerns about the state’s commitment to inclusivity and has fueled worries about a larger trend of marginalizing the LGBTQ+ community. The decision comes amidst a backdrop of controversial legislation aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ rights, leading to concerns about the impact on tourism and the state’s image.
The U.S. hotel industry continues to see positive growth, with Houston and Chicago leading the way in occupancy and revenue. Houston’s occupancy surged by 31.7%, while Chicago saw significant increases in both Average Daily Rate (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) due to the Democratic National Convention. However, some markets like Las Vegas and Nashville experienced declines in RevPAR.
Florida’s tourism website, Visit Florida, has removed LGBTQ+ travel information pages, raising concerns about the state’s stance on welcoming LGBTQ+ visitors. This move comes amidst increasing tension surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in Florida and follows the passage of controversial legislation limiting discussions of gender and sexuality in schools. While the state claims to welcome all, the removal of these resources has sparked criticism and calls for clarification from LGBTQ+ advocates and tourism industry professionals.
Spain’s national weather agency, Aemet, has issued weather warnings for much of the country, including amber alerts for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and hail. The possibility of ‘mud rain’, a phenomenon where Saharan sand mixes with precipitation, could impact popular tourist destinations like Marbella and Malaga.
The agritourism industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by a surge in demand for unique, sustainable travel experiences. This sector, which combines agriculture and tourism, is expected to reach $111.1 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5%. Key drivers include the rising popularity of farm-to-table experiences, increasing interest in eco-friendly travel, and the growing appeal of activities like vineyard tours and cheese-making workshops.
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is making a comeback in India, focusing on unique hotel partnerships and a physical directory to showcase the country’s rich cultural tapestry and attract tourists. The group aims to revitalize its presence after the pandemic and offer travelers a distinct and high-quality experience.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board hosted a successful roadshow in Ahmedabad, attracting over 150 industry leaders and showcasing the state’s diverse attractions and potential for sustainable tourism. The event, organized by Percept Profile and Percept ICE, facilitated new connections and partnerships, highlighting Madhya Pradesh as a premier tourism destination in India.
Luohu District in Shenzhen, China, is poised for significant tourism growth as it strengthens its economic and trade ties with Oceania. This strategic move is expected to attract international visitors seeking a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture, modern innovation, and luxury shopping experiences.
South Africa’s Pleistocene Occupation Sites are gaining recognition as major tourist attractions, showcasing evidence of early human activity and attracting global interest. These sites, crucial for understanding human evolution and adaptation, offer a unique glimpse into our prehistoric past, adding a new dimension to South Africa’s already vibrant tourism offerings.
