By Daniel Ferreira
Rio-based editor covering inbound and outbound tourism, destination marketing and the policy of national tourism boards.
VFS Global opens sixth Korea visa centre in South Asia
VFS Global has opened new Korea visa application centres in New Delhi, Dhaka, and Colombo, bringing its South Asia network to six. The expan
China's inbound tourism boom tests service quality
China ranks first in Asia for inbound arrivals in H1 2026, but service gaps persist. OTAs like Trip.com are building digital infrastructure
Finland's Hiljaa Fest debuts as world's first nature listening festival
Hiljaa Fest, dubbed 'Quietchella,' launches Oct 10 in Valkmusa National Park, Finland, featuring natural soundscapes instead of music. The f
Germany's GCC push: record overnight stays and new Munich terminal
GCC visitors to Germany reached 1.2 million overnight stays in 2025, a 9% rise from 2022. Spending hit $3.2 billion, 30% above average overs
Bhutan's Bathing Carnival returns to Pemagatshel in November 2026
The Bathing Carnival Bhutan returns to Telung, Pemagatshel, from 6-8 November 2026. The event celebrates the joy of water with cultural perf
Tripadvisor's 2026 Travelers' Choice Awards Expand to Honor Culinary Experiences
Tripadvisor expands its 2026 Travelers' Choice Awards with new categories for food tours, cooking classes, wine and beer tours, and viral re
Asia's tourism growth at risk as governments raise travel taxes
Governments across Asia are hiking travel fees to fund budgets, but industry experts warn of diminishing returns. Higher taxes erode price c
Ko Samet Rainbow Weekend Returns with Expanded Program for October 2026
Ko Samet's Rainbow Weekend returns 23–25 October 2026 with pool parties, themed nights, merit-making, and beach cleanups. The event continue
Tongcheng Travel's Q2 growth driven by domestic stability and international expansion
Tongcheng Travel reported Q2 revenue of RMB 4.98 billion, up 6.8% year-on-year, with core OTA revenue rising 8.4%. Despite domestic headwind
US destinations court Canadian travellers with discounts and trade outreach
Canadian trips to the US fell 25.4% in 2025, prompting destinations like New York and Las Vegas to offer deals and court travel advisors. Br
UK visitor levy plan sparks competitiveness concerns for travel industry
The UK government will allow mayors to introduce percentage-based overnight visitor levies. Industry groups warn that combined with rising v
Andy Young elected to CATO Committee after member ballot
Andy Young has been elected to the CATO Committee following a member ballot. He brings extensive experience in retail travel, touring, and t