Global Tourism Economy Forum returns to Macao in 2026; Melbourne Sports Centre adds 1.3...
The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum will be held in Macao, China, from October 15-17, 2026, emphasizing resilience and sustainable growth. Meanwhile, Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre installed a 1.3 MW rooftop solar system, boosting renewable energy use by over 50%.
Backpacker Visa Rule Changes Raise Staffing Concerns in Kimberley
The Australian government capped third-year backpacker visa extensions at 5,000, down from 31,000, sparking concern among Kimberley businesses. Regional employers warn this will worsen staffing shortages in remote towns.
12th Global Tourism Economy Forum Set for Macao in October 2026
The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum will be held in Macao, China, from October 15 to 17, 2026, focusing on resilience and sustainable growth. The event will attract global leaders under the theme "Crisis • Resilience • Evolution."
Kimberley Businesses Concerned Over Cuts to Backpacker Visa Extensions
The Australian government will reduce third-year working holiday visa extensions to 5,000 by implementing a ballot system. Kimberley businesses warn this will worsen staffing shortages in remote regional jobs.
12th Global Tourism Economy Forum to Take Place in Macao, October 2026
The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum will be held in Macao from 15 to 17 October 2026, with Spain and Hainan Province as key participants. The forum focuses on building a resilient, shared tourism economy through innovation and global partnerships.
Australia Caps Third-Year Backpacker Visas, Kimberley Businesses Warn of Staffing Shortages
Australia reduces third-year working holiday visa extensions from 31,000 to 5,000, impacting backpacker labor availability. Kimberley businesses warn staffing shortages threaten regional operations.
Australia to Use Ballot for Working Holiday Visa Extensions from 2026
Australia will introduce a ballot system for Working Holiday Maker visa extensions starting September 2026, reducing second year places from 57,000 to 45,000 and third year from 31,000 to 5,000. WHM and W&H visa holders accounted for about 17% of net overseas migration in 2024-25.
Qatar Issues Free 30-Day Tourist Visa for 47 Countries Starting Sept 2026
Qatar has announced visa-free 30-day tourist visa access on arrival for citizens of 47 countries starting September 2026. South Africa is the only African country included on the list.
Collier County Proposes Tourist Tax Increase to Fund Sports Complex
Collier County proposed raising its tourist tax from 5% to 6%, requiring voter approval under new state law. The increase aims to fund completion of a local sports complex.
Qatar Announces Free 30-Day Tourist Visa for 47 Countries in 2026
Qatar announced a free 30-day tourist visa for citizens of 47 countries, enabling multiple entries and an extension option. South Africa is the only African country among the eligible nations.
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Woman Rescued After Nearly 20 Hours Adrift Off Greek Coast from Royal Caribbean Ship
A 44-year-old woman jumped overboard from Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas near Zakynthos on October 9, 2026. She was found alert after nearly 20 hours in the Mediterranean and taken for medical evaluation.
Royal Caribbean Diverts Oasis of the Seas to Halifax, Cancels Bahamas Stops in Oct...
Royal Caribbean has cancelled Port Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Nassau from the October 2026 Oasis of the Seas itinerary. The cruise will instead call at Halifax, Nova Scotia, for 14 hours due to Atlantic storm conditions.
Disney Cruise Line to Launch Disney Imagination from Japan in 2029
Disney Cruise Line announced the Disney Imagination will begin service from Japan in spring 2029 as its first ship dedicated to the Japanese market. Operated by Oriental Land Co., Ltd., the ship joins the Wish-class fleet and features design art from The Little Mermaid.