News.
The day's developments across world travel, reported and checked by our newsroom before they reach you.
East Africa Tourism Faces Disruption as El Niño Rains Forecast
Heavy rainfall predicted from November 2026 to April 2027 could damage transport infrastructure, affecting access to wildlife parks and heritage sites across the region.
Thailand Proposes THB450 Tourist Fee for Visitor Insurance
The levy, backed by the private sector, aims to fund visitor insurance and tourism infrastructure, with collection potentially starting for air arrivals in early 2027.
Thailand Boosts Tourist Safety with Multilingual Assistance
The Tourist Police Bureau now offers 24-hour support via its 1155 hotline, providing services in eight languages, alongside a dedicated mobile application for visitors.
South Africa's Stony Point Reserve Hosts Penguin Palooza
The annual Penguin Palooza, scheduled for 7 November 2026, aims to raise awareness and support for the critically endangered African penguin species.
Ponant, Silversea Expand Philippine Cruise Itineraries to New Islands
Luxury cruise operators Ponant and Silversea are introducing more sailings to the Philippines, featuring longer durations and calls at previously less-visited islands across 2027 and 2028.
Haze Prompts Malaysia Tour Cancellations, Indonesia Flight Disruptions
Inbound operators in Malaysia report November booking reductions, while Indonesia has recorded over 2,600 domestic flight cancellations due to regional haze ahead of year-end travel.
IHG to Open First Holiday Inn Resort in Luang Prabang by 2027
The 101-room property, developed with Naluang International Resort and Hotel, will mark IHG's entry into Laos's UNESCO World Heritage city beyond Vientiane.
Malaysians Rethink France Travel Amid Unrest
Malaysian travellers are weighing itinerary changes and potential costs, with one individual facing up to 1,200 ringgit (US$293) to alter a planned visit to Paris next week.
London's Chessington to host world's first Minecraft hotel in 2027
Merlin Entertainments and Mojang Studios revealed plans for the 69-room Minecraft World Hotel and an 'Escape the Nether' rollercoaster at the Chessington World of Adventures Resort.
New York City Council Approves Phase-Out of Horse Carriages by 2028
The decision, effective by mid-2028, concludes a longstanding debate regarding animal welfare and follows a recent incident involving a tourist from India.
Chinese Actress Bai Lu Cancels Bangkok Event Over Safety Concerns
Bai Lu's studio cited recent risk warnings for the 25 October fan meeting, pledging to cover eligible fans' flight and hotel cancellation costs.
Nha Trang Restaurants Fined for Food Safety Breaches
Authorities in the Vietnamese beach town levied penalties against several tourist-focused eateries following inspections on 19 October 2026, identifying 22 violations.
Thailand's TAT promotes Nakhon Phanom boat festival to global audience
The 2026 Illuminated Boat Procession, running until 27 October, showcases Mekong traditions and supports local communities along the riverfront.
Poland Expands Tourist Fee Authority to More Cities
From 1 January 2027, a daily charge of up to 5 zloty (€1.14) will apply to all overnight visitors across newly eligible municipalities, including those travelling for work or health.
Paris's Île Seguin Opens Pritzker Art Centre
The new 1.25-acre contemporary art venue, designed by Pritzker-winning RCR Arquitectes, features 27,000 square feet of exhibition space and free entry for some groups.
Boracay's First Casino Opens Amid Environmental and Social Debate
Kaban Hotel and Casino, a 2,000m² gaming facility with 88 rooms, commenced operations in Station Zero this month, prompting concerns from religious leaders and environmental advocates.
Kyoto Doubles Tourist Tax Target Amid Overtourism Push
Kyoto City expects JPY 13.2 billion this fiscal year from its accommodation tax, which now levies up to JPY 10,000 per night to fund infrastructure and manage visitor impact.
South Australia Debuts in Michelin Guide, 77 Restaurants Honoured
The inaugural Michelin Guide South Australia 2027, unveiled October 14, features 77 establishments, including Magill Estate Restaurant with two stars, aiming to draw global culinary travellers.
China Outbound Travel Shifts to Personalised Experiences
Chinese travellers are increasingly seeking unique tours to Africa, Central Asia, and South America, with trips projected to exceed 165 million in 2026.