Global

More in Global

• Illinois state parks and historic sites see record-breaking 41 million visitors in 2024

  Illinois state parks and historic sites welcomed over 41 million visitors in 2024—the highest figure in nearly 15 years. This surge follows major investments in infrastructure, recreation, and tourism promotion. Sites such as Starved Rock and Illinois Beach led the list, reflecting a renewed public interest in nature and heritage as the state boosts access and visibility through its “Middle of Everything” campaign.

  

• Americans slow to book summer travel amid discount hunting

  Americans are changing their travel plans this summer. They are waiting for better deals on flights and hotels. Travel companies like Delta and Marriott are worried about this slowdown. People are booking trips closer to the travel dates. The dollar's weakness is making international trips more expensive. Many are choosing local destinations or nearby countries like Canada and the Caribbean.

  

• In Spain, short-term rentals surge despite bid to rein in overtourism

  Spain sees a big jump in tourist rentals. This happens even as the government tries to control them. A new study shows rentals are up 25 per cent in two years. Hotel rooms grew much less. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are trying to limit rentals. They want more homes for residents. The rules are hard to enforce.

  

• Dubai Tourism launches new campaign with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma

  Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism has launched a new campaign featuring Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, marking the celebrity couple’s first destination-focused collaboration. Titled Dubai, Ready For a Surprise, the campaign aims to spotlight the city’s evolving appeal through personalised experiences and growing cultural affinity with Indian travellers.

  

• Hawaii imposes climate change tax for tourists

  Hawaii's governor approved a tax increase on hotels and rentals. The aim is to generate funds for climate change initiatives. This includes shoreline protection and wildfire prevention. The tax is expected to generate nearly $100 million annually. The money will also address the effects of tourism on the environment. The new tax will be effective from January 1.

  

• Yas Island eyes deeper India play as visits cross 38 mn: Miral Destinations CEO

  From announcing bold new theme park attractions and hospitality expansions to unveiling tech-enabled guest experiences and cultural collaborations, Miral Destinations is positioning Yas Island as more than just a holiday destination — it is crafting a fully immersive, multi-sensory playground where entertainment meets technology, and travel meets personalisation. Liam Findlay in an exclusive conversation shared more details.

  • Exclusive

  

• Italy court cancels ban on remote check-ins for short-term rentals

  Italian judges overturned a government ban on remote check-ins for short-term rentals. The ban had led to removal of keyboxes from city centers. The interior ministry had imposed the ban citing security risks. The Lazio administrative court annulled the directive, deeming it excessively burdensome for landlords. Cities like Florence and Rome had intensified efforts to remove keyboxes.

  

• Indian travellers set new records in Japan with longer stays, deeper discovery

  Indian tourism to Japan surged in 2024, with spending per traveller rising by over 53 per cent from pre-pandemic levels and average stays extending to 16.3 nights. Over 233,000 Indians visited Japan last year, with growing interest in local culture and offbeat destinations beyond the classic Golden Route. JNTO Delhi cites a shift toward mindful, independent, and experience-led travel.

  

• Indian travellers to Moscow get payment, travel support with new tourist card

  Indian tourists visiting Moscow can now conveniently obtain a Tourist Card at Sber's new travel and banking office near Red Square. This card, operating on the Russian MIR payment system, facilitates cashless transactions where VISA and Mastercard are unavailable. The office offers travel planning assistance, currency exchange, and even a children's play area.

  

• Japan travel bookings drop amid earthquake fears sparked by manga prediction

  Travel bookings to Japan from Asian markets have notably decreased due to earthquake predictions from a manga novel, sparking widespread concern. Flight reservations from Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong have declined, with Hong Kong experiencing a significant drop. Despite scientific reassurances, the speculation impacts tourism, potentially slowing growth as travellers cautiously consider alternative destinations.

  

• India leads spending as Washington DC reports record-breaking tourist numbers in 2024

  Washington, DC welcomed a record 27.2 million visitors in 2024, generating USD 11.4 billion in visitor spending. India topped the international spending charts with USD 344 million and was the third-largest market by volume. While domestic travel grew significantly, international tourism saw a 10 per cent increase. Destination DC anticipates challenges in 2025 amid a projected drop in global arrivals.