News.
The day's developments across world travel, reported and checked by our newsroom before they reach you.
Rixos to Launch First Thailand All-Inclusive Resort in Phuket
The Rixos Water World Phuket, a collaboration between Ennismore and Central Group Capital, will feature over 600 rooms and an integrated waterpark when it opens in 2028.
Hong Kong Police Arrest Two Tourists for MTR Graffiti Vandalism
The foreign nationals, aged 30 and 40, were intercepted at Hong Kong International Airport attempting to depart the city after allegedly defacing train carriages at an MTR depot.
Lofoten Islands to Introduce Overnight Tourist Tax for Infrastructure
Norwegian municipalities in the Lofoten Islands will introduce a new levy on overnight stays to fund visitor infrastructure, addressing the impact of over one million annual tourists on local communities.
Goa's New Porvorim Bridge Cuts Travel Time to 10 Minutes
The 5.15-kilometre flyover on NH66 significantly shortens journeys between Mapusa and Panjim, supporting the state's tourism and logistics sectors.
Saudi Arabia unveils Package Visa, flights for 2M Indonesian tourists
The Kingdom introduced a Package Visa and expanded air links, following 1.6 million arrivals from Indonesia in 2024 and over 633,000 by June this year.
Cambodia MoT, Swisscontact Update Tour Guide Training Standards
Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism and Swisscontact revise community tour guide training materials to improve service quality and workforce skills.
JR Japan Railways Unveils Aki no Norihodai Autumn Rail Pass
The new Aki no Norihodai Pass offers three consecutive days of unlimited travel on JR regular and rapid trains across Japan, available for purchase from September 18 to October 16, 2026.
Ho Tram Tourism Boost: HCMC Merger and Infrastructure Drive Growth
Ho Tram, Vietnam, reveals increased tourism interest. This follows its 2025 absorption into Ho Chi Minh City municipality. Significant infrastructure investments also contribute to the area's development. These include a new international airport and an expressway. The coastal region is becoming a key leisure destination.
Big Sur Grapples with Overtourism, Fatal Crash Amid Wildfires
California's Big Sur region faces scrutiny over mass tourism's impact following a fatal traffic incident this August. Ongoing wildfires and road congestion compound community concerns regarding visitor numbers after Highway 1's reopening this year.
Residents Gatekeep Local Spots as Overtourism Pressures Mount
Residents in popular global destinations are increasingly withholding information about local haunts from tourists, a direct response to overtourism. This practice, dubbed 'gatekeeping', aims to preserve local culture, manage rising prices, and protect environmentally sensitive areas from excessive visitor numbers.
Jeju Island: Highest Crime Rate in Korea Deters Tourists
Jeju Island faces heightened scrutiny after police discovered four bodies between August 22 and 24. This development follows 2024 data revealing Jeju had South Korea's highest crime rate, prompting concerns among travellers and domestic internet users.
Tashkent Opens New Islamic Civilisation Centre
Tashkent's new Islamic Civilisation Centre, which opened in March, features the seventh-century Uthman Quran. The facility combines a research library, digital learning hub, and museum, enhancing Uzbekistan's cultural standing.
Nepal Floods Suspend Kailash Yatra, Disrupt Indian Travel
Flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border have halted the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal, causing cancellations and postponements for Indian travellers. While major Nepali religious sites remain accessible, border closures and shifting consumer confidence affect broader tourism.
Agentic AI: Four Futures for Flight Booking by 2030s
Global travel technology analysis from TNMT reveals four potential futures for flight booking in the 2030s, shaped by traveller trust in AI agents and control over customer data. One scenario, "Grounded Ambitions", shows airlines struggling with rising costs and diminished direct customer engagement.
Malaysia Seeks Muslim Tourists Amid Gulf Travel Disruption
Malaysia aims to attract Muslim travellers as conflict impacts Middle East aviation hubs, though analysts note long-haul flight challenges persist.
Marseille Overtourism Sparks Resident Protests, New Rules
Marseille, France's second city, faces increasing challenges from a rapid rise in visitor numbers. This summer's influx has led to resident protests and prompted local authorities to implement new management strategies for sustainable tourism.