Sri Lanka Shifts Tourism Strategy to Focus on Visitor Value and Local Spending
Sri Lanka recorded 2.36 million tourist arrivals in 2025 but tourism revenue reached only $3.2 billion. The government aims to boost earnings to $8 billion by 2030 while shifting focus from volume to visitor value and local spending retention.
Hamilton County Tourism Generates $1.88 Billion in Spending in 2025
Visitor spending in Hamilton County reached nearly $1.9 billion in 2025, growing 4% from 2024 and surpassing Tennessee’s statewide growth. The increase is driven by new hotel openings and expanded lodging capacity.
Japan Raises Visa Fees Fivefold to 15,000 Yen from July 2026
Japan will raise single-entry visa fees from 3,000 to 15,000 yen starting July 1, 2026, the first hike since 1978. The policy aims to manage overtourism and fund infrastructure upgrades.
Japan Increases Single-Entry Visa Fees to 15,000 Yen in 2026
Japan will raise single-entry visa fees from 3,000 to 15,000 yen in 2026, marking the first increase since 1978. The hike aims to fund infrastructure amid surging tourism focused on Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Israel’s 2026 Tourism Drops Sharply; EL AL Posts Strong Q2 Profit Growth
Israel saw a sharp decline in international tourism during 2026, with arrivals dropping from millions in previous years. Meanwhile, EL AL Israel Airlines reported doubled Q2 net profits and revenue growth amid the broader tourism crisis.
Foreign Tourist Arrivals Increase at Nepal’s Gaddachauki Western Border in 2023-24
Foreign tourist arrivals through Nepal's Gaddachauki border reached 1,753 in the last fiscal year. Despite growth, lack of infrastructure causes most tourists to visit Kathmandu and Pokhara instead.
Israel Tourism Falls in 2026 Amid EL AL’s Strong Q2 Performance
Israel's foreign tourist arrivals dropped to about 440,000 in the first half of 2026, severely impacting Jerusalem's Old City merchants. Meanwhile, EL AL Airlines doubled its Q2 net profit to $132 million amid the tourism crisis.
South Africa Adds Tourism to Economic Growth Plan in Phase Three Launch
South Africa's government launched Phase Three of its Government-Business Partnership on Friday, targeting economic growth above 3%. Tourism has been included as a priority sector due to its job creation and investment potential.
South Africa Prioritizes Tourism in Government’s Phase Three Economic Growth Partnership
South Africa announced the inclusion of tourism in Phase Three of the Government-Business Partnership aimed at lifting economic growth over 3%. Tourism supported 954,000 jobs and contributed 4.9% to GDP in 2024.
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.
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1,331 U.S. Flights Delayed, 59 Canceled on November 7, 2026 Amid Weather Disruptions
On November 7, 2026, at least 1,331 flights were delayed and 59 canceled across U.S. airports due to storms and low clouds. Weather impacted major hubs including Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara Leads Leaders’ Summit at WTM London 2026
WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara organized the inaugural Leaders’ Summit on the opening day of World Travel Market London 2026. The event prioritized public-private collaboration in tourism investment and destination development.
Indonesia Promotes Quality Tourism at WTM London 2026
Indonesia participated in WTM London 2026 held in London, promoting its quality tourism offerings. The promotion targeted Europe's travel market to boost visitor interest.