Costa Rica Sees Record International Tourist Arrivals in First Half of 2026
Costa Rica achieved record-breaking international tourist arrivals by air in the first half of 2026. This growth exceeded projections and spanned both Juan Santamaría and Daniel Oduber Quirós airports.
Chinese Tourist Arrivals to Japan Fall 56.1% in July 2026
Chinese tourist arrivals to Japan dropped 56.1% in July 2026, marking eight months of consecutive declines. The fall is linked to geopolitical tensions, travel advisories, and increased visa fees.
Costa Rica Posts Record International Visitor Arrivals in First Half of 2026
Costa Rica saw record-breaking foreign visitor arrivals by air in the first half of 2026, with passenger numbers at major international airports exceeding forecasts. Growth is driven by increased flights, a national airline strategy, and sustainable tourism focused on biodiversity and cultural richness.
Colombia and Israel to Remove Visa Requirements from Sept 1, 2026
Colombia and Israel will abolish visa requirements for each other’s citizens from September 1, 2026. The agreement follows talks between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar.
Colombia Abolishes Visa Requirements for Israeli Travelers from Sept 2026
Colombia and Israel will abolish visa requirements starting September 1, 2026. This move reverses prior diplomatic breaks and eases travel between the two countries.
Colombia, Israel Remove Visa Requirements from Sept 1, 2026
Colombia and Israel will abolish visa requirements for each other starting September 1, 2026, allowing visa-free travel. This decision follows a policy reversal by Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, after strained relations under former President Gustavo Petro.
Keizer Considers Raising Hotel Tax to Fund Keizer Little League Park Upgrades
Keizer officials propose raising the transient occupancy tax from 6% to 10% on hotels and short-term rentals to fund Keizer Little League Park improvements. The city estimates an additional $236,000 annually if the increase passes, with a public vote possible in May 2027.
Costa Rica Records Highest International Tourist Arrivals in H1 2026
Costa Rica achieved record international tourist arrivals by air during the first half of 2026, with passenger growth at major airports Juan Santamaría and Daniel Oduber. Tourism advances were driven by North American and European markets amid a strategy focused on sustainable development and improved flight connections.
Keizer Proposes Raising Hotel Tax to Fund Sports Field Improvements
Keizer city officials propose raising the transient occupancy tax from 6% to 10% to fund upgrades at Keizer Little League Park. Alternatively, hotels may join a regional Tourism Promotion Area to collectively set fees and use funds for tourism marketing.
Suit Filed Against New U.S. Visa Limits for International Students and Scholars
Nonprofits and unions filed a federal lawsuit in Boston against a Trump-era policy capping international student visas at four years. The change, effective September 2026, affects students, scholars, and journalists and threatens Massachusetts' economy.
















