India’s Travel and Tourism Economy Tops $263.6 Billion in 2025
The World Travel & Tourism Council reported India’s travel and tourism economy generated $263.6 billion in 2025. Vishnu Rageev R, assistant editor at Asian Hospitality, covers the sector’s economic impact.
Sri Lanka Sets 5 Million Tourist Arrivals and $10 Billion Revenue Goal for 2030
Sri Lanka set targets to welcome five million tourists and generate USD 10 billion in revenue by 2030. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya during the 45th SLITHM Graduation Ceremony.
European River Cruises Alter Routes and Swap Ships Due to Historic Low Water Levels
Droughts and heatwaves in summer 2026 have caused historic low water levels on Europe’s Danube and Rhine rivers, forcing river cruise lines to alter itineraries. Cruise operators like Uniworld and Viking are using ship swaps, rerouted routes, and bus transfers to manage disruptions.
Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels Norwegian Sky Final Voyage from Athens
Norwegian Cruise Line has cancelled Norwegian Sky’s final repositioning cruise from Athens to Muscat in September 2026, citing Middle East security concerns. Passengers will receive full refunds and enhanced future cruise credits.
AmaWaterways Unveils New Nile Cruise Ships AmaNubia and AmaDahlia
AmaWaterways revealed two new Nile river cruise ships, AmaNubia and AmaDahlia, debuting in late 2026. AmaNubia accommodates 76 guests and offers Egyptologist-led itineraries with luxury accommodations.
Caribbean Airlines Cancels Orlando Flight BW485 Due to Technical Issue
Caribbean Airlines cancelled Flight BW485 from Orlando to Port of Spain on August 2, 2026 due to a technical issue. The airline confirmed compensation and arranged alternative flights for affected passengers.
Marriott Raises 2026 Outlook on Strong Hotel Demand and Market Performance
Marriott Worldwide has upgraded its full-year forecast for 2026. The outlook raise is driven by strong hotel demand and better-than-market performance.
Luxury Hotel Opens in Historic 118-Year-Old Nara Prison in Japan
The former Nara Prison, built in 1908 and designated a cultural property in 2017, was transformed into the Hoshinoya Nara Prison Hotel, opening in June 2026. Managed by Hoshino Resorts, the hotel preserves historic architecture and offers rooms converted from original prison cells with rates starting at $245.
Jinmao Group Resumes Independent Hotel Operation as of August 2026
Jinmao Group ended cooperation with Hyatt and independently operates Shanghai Chongming Jinmao Yiyin Hotel from August 2026. Jinmao shifts from international brand reliance to self-owned hotels like Jinmao Yiyin, Jinmao Joy, and Jinmao Pure.
Oman Introduces Complimentary 14-Day Tourist Visa from August 2026
Oman introduces a free 14-day tourist visa effective August 2026. This new program allows travelers to visit Oman without visa fees for short stays.
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WTM London 2026 Reports Drop in Middle East Travel Sector
WTM London 2026 presented a report documenting a sizeable decline in the Middle East travel sector. The analysis highlighted data on the sector's travel impact in the region.
ITB Americas 2026 Opens Fully Booked with 300 Exhibitors in Guadalajara
ITB Americas 2026 launched in Guadalajara, Mexico, with 300 exhibitors from over 60 countries and qualified buyers from 40+. The event featured airlines, hospitality brands, technology providers, and a conference addressing travel trends.
FAA Delay Programs Affect 22 US Airports on 2026-11-13, Newark Worst Hit
On November 13, 2026, FAA delay programs impacted 22 US airports with 34 total programs. Newark Liberty International faced the longest program lasting over 16 hours.