European hot spots including Italy, Spain, and Greece are rolling out aggressive anti-overtourism measures – ranging from reservation-only beaches and short-term rental bans to cruise caps and digital border systems – to protect local life and heritage amid surging visitor numbers.
Tour operator Trafalgar has taken a major step into river cruising, joining Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland and preparing for the debut of its first two river ships – Trafalgar Reverie and Trafalgar Verity – in 2026.
Norwich Castle’s medieval keep has reopened as the ‘People’s Palace’ following a five-year, £27.5 million restoration, now welcoming visitors to all five floors for the first time in its 900-year history.
Travel experts have revealed the most beautiful beaches in the world for 2025. From the pink sands of Indonesia to the icy landscapes of Iceland, discover the beaches you need to visit this year.
Ascott is dramatically extending its resort presence, targeting approximately 50 properties across leisure destinations using an asset-light model. The company secured 11 new signings in the past 10 months, bringing adaptable multi-typology brands like lyf, Oakwood, Crest, Somerset, and Unlimited to resort settings.
American Airlines is launching five new direct routes from its U.S. hubs to Europe for summer 2026 – including connections to Lyon, Salzburg, Milan, Nice, and Prague – expanding its international network and offering more options for leisure and business travelers.
Costa Rica’s newly introduced Digital Nomad Visa, available for roughly $100, is already reshaping tourism by attracting remote workers to stay longer, spend more on local services, and experience the country beyond traditional vacation cycles.
Perillo Tours is expanding its European offerings with new guided journeys through the lush landscapes of Ireland and the sun-soaked coasts of Portugal, set to debut in 2026 – a move aimed at enriching its legacy and appealing to immersive travel seekers.
Starting September 2025, South Korea will allow visa-free entry for Chinese group tourists, signaling a major boost to tourism and cross-border travel.
Starting in 2027, New Zealand will require foreign visitors to pay a fee – ranging from NZ$20 to NZ$40 – at four of its most visited conservation sites, reinvesting the revenue in maintenance, infrastructure, and boosting local communities.
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the Aseer province, aiming to transform its natural landscapes and cultural heritage into a world-class tourism destination that supports the Kingdom’s 2030 goals.
Tourism Australia has revived its iconic ‘Come and Say G’Day’ branding with a $130 million campaign featuring celebrity ambassadors, regional storytelling, and immersive cultural themes to attract global travelers.
Dubai welcomed nearly 10 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, driven by strategic initiatives like the One Freezone Passport and rising global interest in the city as a premier destination.
Norwegian Cruise Line is transforming its private island Great Stirrup Cay with a nearly six-acre waterpark, new pier, tram, pools, and family‑focused experiences, setting a new standard for cruise-owned destinations.
A powerful 8.3-magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s Far East early Wednesday, sending tsunami waves across the Pacific and disrupting travel plans in Japan, Hawaii, and other coastal regions.