Greece, Italy, Malta Drive 5% Growth in European Tourism in First Half 2026
International tourist arrivals in Europe rose 5% in the first half of 2026, led by Greece, Italy, and Malta. Despite economic and geopolitical challenges, these countries promoted off-peak and sustainable tourism, boosting visitor expenditure and managing resource strain.
Australia Increases Visa Fees Sharply on July 1, 2026, Impacting Residents and Students
On July 1, 2026, Australia increased most visa fees by up to 200%, including tripling the resident return visa fee. The hikes sparked criticism from students, advocacy groups, and businesses.
Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay for Indian Visitors to 30 Days from July 2026
Thailand will retain visa-free entry for Indian nationals but reduce the maximum stay from 60 to 30 days starting July 2026. The cabinet approved the change to align policy with tourist behavior and reinforce oversight against visa misuse.
European Tourism Grows 5% in Q2 2026 Amid Geopolitical Challenges
International tourist arrivals to Europe rose 5.0% in early 2026 despite geopolitical challenges. Greece, Italy, and Malta led growth, while Cyprus and Türkiye saw declines.
Australia Sets 295,000 International Student Target for 2027 Amid Falling Visas
The Australian government has frozen the National Planning Level for new international students at 295,000 for 2026 and 2027. Visa applications and commencements are declining, with 2026 commencements 8% below 2025 and 13% below 2019.
Australia Sets 295,000 International Student Target for 2027; Visa Applications Decline
Australia has set the National Planning Level at 295,000 for international students in 2027, maintaining last year's cap. Visa applications have declined sharply amid higher fees and stricter processing.
Australia Holds 295,000 Study Visa Target for 2027 Despite Falling Applications
Australia’s government has set the National Planning Level at 295,000 for new international students in 2026 and 2027. However, visa applications and student commencements are declining, with a 13% drop compared to 2019.
Portugal Records 29.9 Million Tourist Arrivals in 2025 with 3.3% Growth
Portugal saw tourist arrivals reach 29.9 million in 2025, up 3.3% from 2024. The Spanish market remained largest despite a slight decline, while UK arrivals grew 1.9%.
Greece Tops Europe Tourism Growth in 2026 with 38.3% Arrival Increase
Europe's international visitor arrivals rose 5% year-to-date in 2026, led by Greece, Italy, and Malta. Greece recorded a 38.3% increase in arrivals and a 64.3% rise in travel receipts.
Central Visayas tourism declines in Q1 2026 despite major events
Central Visayas saw a 6% decline in tourist arrivals and a 14% drop in Cebu hotel occupancy in Q1 2026, while Bohol arrivals fell 59%. The region hosted major events including the Sinulog Festival and ASEAN Summit.
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Flight Delays After Apron Control Tower Evacuated at Toronto Pearson Airport
Smoke reports forced evacuation of the apron control tower at Toronto Pearson International Airport on 2026-10-21. This caused delays for both departing and arriving flights.
Renfe Train Drivers to Strike for 24 Hours on October 29
Renfe train drivers will conduct a 24-hour strike on October 29, 2026, over railway safety conflicts. This will cause cancellations and disruptions in train services in Spain.
Xiamen Metro Expands with New Inter-Urban and Express Lines
Xiamen Metro expanded its network by 57.4 km with two new fully automated lines on September 16, 2026. The new routes include an express metro line and the first inter-urban metro linking to Zhangzhou.