Category Archives: Travel

Warning issued as famous Spanish tourist island could ‘turn into a desert’ by 2050

New research into climate change patterns has suggested popular Spanish holiday destinations could soon transition to a semi-desert climate characterised by extreme heat and critically dry conditions.Scientists from one of Spain’s top research universities have warned that if current trends continue, there will be a concerning reduction in rainfall in the coming years, triggering a shift from a Mediterranean climate to a steppe climate, often associated with desert environments.The study, conducted by professors from the UPC Centre for Land Policy and Valuation, predicted rainfall across Spain could decrease by as much as 20 percent by 2050.The research suggested within the next couple of decades, popular tourist destinations, including Majorca, are likely to face serious heatwaves, droughts and even wildfires.Titled ‘Spain: Towards a drier and warmer climate’, the study has been presented as part of an international summit of the European Meteorological Society, held in Barcelona.The scientists behind the research warned Spain will become “noticeably drier and warmer” by the middle of this century, “with steppe and even desert Spain dominating”.Considering the overall findings of the research study, the team reported current global warming patterns would “significantly” affect typical rainfall patterns across the country and trigger a “tendency towards drought”.Fluctuations in weather patterns are also likely to trigger periods of torrential rain, increasing the risk of flooding as the extremely dry ground fails to absorb the sudden downpour.UPC professors Josep Roca Cladera and Blanca Arellano, and PhD candidate Zheng Qianhui warn Spain will undergo a “fundamental change” by 2050.The research also emphasised how Spain is already experiencing a significant shift in traditional weather patterns.Between 1970 and the present day, the average duration of heat waves across Spain has increased from three days to nine days.Similarly, the length of Spanish summer has increased by an average of 36 days over the five decades to 2022.In July, hundreds of firefighters battled severe wildfires which tore through eastern Spain, and much of the country was on red alert for extreme weather events across the summer.If global warming continues to progress at the current pace, such occurrences will become far more commonplace across some of the nation’s top holiday locations, the study suggested. 

Iran and India Sign MoU to Boost Tourism Ties

In a significant development for the Indian and Iranian tourism sectors, the Iranian Tour Operators Association (ITOA) and the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 11 September, 2024, at the ITB India 2024 in Mumbai.
The MoU, signed by Mostafa Shafie Shakib, Chairman, ITOA, and Riaz Munshi, President, OTOAI, aims to strengthen tourism ties between the two nations. The signing ceremony was witnessed by distinguished members of both associations, including Shravan Bhalla, Vice President, OTOAI, and Monia Kapoor, Joint Secretary, OTOAI.
The presence of Mostafa Shafie Shakib as the primary signatory from the Iranian delegation highlighted the significance of this initiative. Other esteemed members of the Iranian delegation were also in attendance, further reinforcing the importance of the agreement.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in fostering tourism growth, exploring new opportunities, and creating sustainable partnerships between India and Iran. The MoU underscores the shared commitment of both countries to promoting cultural exchange and unlocking new tourism potential.  

Lack of tax-free shopping cost West End retailers £400 million in tourist spend

Ahead of the Autumn Budget, which is coming up on the 30 October, West End retailers are urging Labour to reintroduce tax-free shopping. According to new data, in the first half of 2024, there were £220 million in unrealised sales in the West End due to international shoppers taking their business elsewhere where they can claim their tax back. 

Back in 2020, when Rishi Sunak was chancellor, he scrapped tax-free shopping for international visitors. Fresh data from New West End Company revealed that the policy change cost West End retailers £400 million in 2023.

The absence of tax-free shopping continues to act as a powerful disincentive for international visitors, who can save up to 20% on purchases made in Continental Europe compared to those made in the UK. This has created a persistent  ‘spending gap’ between international visitor numbers and their associated spend.
Despite number of international tourists visiting London rising by 3% in the first half of 2024 versus H1 2019, international visitor spend fell 12%. However, according to Global Blue data, international spend in Continental Europe has skyrocketed since 2019. It was up by 36% in the first half of 2024 compared to the first half of 2019. This reveals the negative impact the removal of tax-free shopping has had on businesses in the UK.

Dee Corsi, Chief Executive of the New West End Company, commented: “It is bittersweet for the West End that, whilst London remains a highly desirable global travel destination, the absence of tax-free shopping continues to act as a drag on overall spending growth.
“As London Fashion Week concludes, in its 40th anniversary year, we are reminded of the incredible craftsmanship and innovation that makes British fashion globally renowned. And yet, the growth of this vital sector is being hindered, and retailers forced to compete at a disadvantage.

“Critically, the loss of £400 million in unrealised sales last year in the West End alone is just a small part of this story; fewer sales on the shop floor means fewer tourists in restaurants and hotels, and a knock-on impact on our entire tourism ecosystem. If the Government is serious about returning the country to growth, tax-free shopping presents a rare, golden opportunity to do so.”

Foreign Office urges UK tourists to ‘postpone non-urgent journeys to another time’

Flooding in the East of Austria may lead to road closures and disruptions to public transport, the UK Foreign Office has warned UK tourists and holidaymakers in an urgent message. British holidaymakers staying in the European Union for some winter and autumn breaks are being warned. “Due to floods in the East of Austria, road…

How millennials are revolutionising the travel and hospitality landscape

Millennials are seeking to explore destinations which offer sustainability. They are now more aware and conscious about the environment, which is driving the change in the way they travel as compared to previous generations
read moreThe travel landscape is rapidly evolving, and India is at the forefront of a tourism revolution driven by changing millennial travel behaviours. According to Bloomberg, 86 per cent of millennials now prioritise immersive experiences and cultural engagement when travelling. This shift has led to a surge in the sector post-pandemic, with millennials seeking out unique, authentic, and luxurious experiences.With the power of social media and digital platforms, travellers can now craft their own experiences, ensuring that their journeys are truly unforgettable. Sustainability, luxury, heritage, and discovering hidden gems drive millennials’ tourism choices, offering relaxation from their daily routine and 9-5 grind. This is an exciting time for the travel industry, as it embraces these changing behaviours and opens up new possibilities for exploration and discovery. The evolving phenomenon necessitates that the tourism industry caters to the experiences and preferences preferred by millennials.AdvertisementAccording to the American Express Travel 2023 Global Trends report, a striking 94 per cent of Indian travellers have shown their interest in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. The burgeoning interest in travel among Indian millennials presents a significant opportunity to come together and craft a seamless, immersive experience for them. Youth in India are increasingly embracing a lifestyle focused on aspirations and placing high value on travel and new experiences. There is a quest for an immersive experience filled with authenticity, cultural heritages and stories. This behaviour change has resulted in a significant increase in first-time luxury travellers seeking heritage properties for a staycation.The travel industry is currently witnessing a shift in the accommodation preferences of millennials as well, they are now seeking more immersive and experiential stays, adventure, and engagement with cultural heritage. Luxury travel, heritage walks, hidden gems, and adventure activities are emerging as prominent travel trends. Developing deeper connections with destinations, millennials are drawn towards stories and the historical context of a location, prioritizing meaningful experiences over picturesque ones. The hospitality and tourism sector should cater to these preferences by offering more personalized, authentic, and luxurious experiences, as well as providing greater flexibility and unique lodging options.The rise of social media platforms has revolutionised the way we explore the world, making it more accessible to the tech-savvy generation. Travel is now seen as a fundamental right by millennials and most of them consider it a top priority. They turn to social media for inspiration while looking for their next travel destination. Social media influencers and travellers have transformed into storytellers, significantly influencing the travel decisions of many young people. The travel industry is leveraging these influencers to connect with the younger generation. Leading hotels and resorts create experiences specifically designed to cater to millennial preferences and to be visually appealing for platforms like Instagram.Gone are the days when travellers relied solely on travel agents for trip planning. Today’s millennials and younger generations turn to the internet and social media for all their travel planning needs. They trust online reviews to make fully informed decisions. Hotel marketing has evolved in response to this shift, focusing on building brand loyalty and encouraging frequent visits in an era where online reviews hold great power. Numerous websites host communities of reviewers who rate hotels, restaurants, and activities. Positive reviews can solidify their travel decision, while negative ones can make them rethink their choices.AdvertisementMillennials are seeking to explore destinations which offer sustainability. They are now more aware and conscious about the environment, which is driving the change in the way they travel as compared to previous generations. They are opting for destinations and service providers such as airlines, hotels, restaurants, and tour companies based on their sustainability records and are willing to pay more for it. The tourism industry should start implementing sustainable practices to elevate the travel experience for millennials.In addition, millennials are now looking for authentic culinary experiences. They are opting for hotels and heritage resorts that serve local cuisines, cultural immersion, and opportunities to connect with nature. Millennials are reshaping the industry with their preferences, including authentic experiences, sustainable practices, and comfortable accommodation. To fulfil the need of the hour and foster the industry’s growth, the hospitality and tourism sector needs to explore these preferences and work on these arenas to meet their demands.AdvertisementThe author is an award-winning international hotelier, Executive Director of Noormahal Palace Hotel (India) and founder of London’s Iconic Chain of Indian Restaurants Colonel Saab. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.

Scottish Highlands consider introducing tourist tax

The Scottish Highlands may soon become the latest region in the UK to introduce a tourist tax, allowing hotels, B&Bs, campsites, and holiday rentals to charge an

additional fee to overnight guests. The funds collected would be reinvested by local councils to improve services and infrastructure primarily used by tourists and business visitors.
This move follows the passing of the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill last year, which grants local councils the authority to introduce a visitor levy after consulting with local communities, businesses, and tourism organizations.
Highlands Council plans to begin a three-month public consultation on the proposed tax later this year, although the exact amount has yet to be determined.
“Tourism is one of our most vital sectors, and the levy would be an essential part of sustaining, maintaining, and developing the services and infrastructure that the sector depends on,” said Ken Gowans, an Inverness councillor supporting the initiative. “The upcoming consultation will provide everyone the chance to share their views on how the levy should be structured and how the proceeds should be used.”
The Highlands, known for iconic attractions like Ben Nevis, Loch Ness, and John o’ Groats, draw millions of visitors each year. The region was also featured on National Geographic’s Best of the World list in 2022.
Other UK cities have already implemented similar tourist fees, including Manchester, which charges £1 per night on most paid accommodations, and Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, where a £2 per room, per night fee was introduced in July.
Under the new Visitor Levy Bill, the earliest any tourist tax could be implemented in Scotland would be in the spring of 2026.  Photo by StaraBlazkova at Czech Wikipedia, Wikimedia commons.

Inside the new Hong Kong: Taiwan faces threats from China, but its friendly people want it to become the region’s go-to cultural and tourism hub

By John Kampfner For The Mail On Sunday Published: 04:52 EDT, 16 September 2024 | Updated: 08:01 EDT, 16 September 2024

Tourist fears for Tenerife holidays after making worrying observation in street

A tourist said Tenerife is “dead”, claiming it’s even quieter than Turkey, which has recently been labelled as “finished” due to soaring prices. In recent weeks, holidaymakers have been vocal about Turkey’s sky-high costs, but now it seems Tenerife is also being hit, with travellers also making note of its expense. Hayley Duffy took to…

Countdown begins: South Asian Travel Awards set to honour tourism excellence

With just three days remaining, anticipation is building for the 8th annual South Asian Travel Awards (SATA), set to take place from September 19 to 20 in Kathmandu, Nepal. This prestigious event, which honours outstanding achievements in the South Asian travel and tourism industry, will bring together industry leaders and professionals to celebrate innovation, excellence, and dedication in the sector.
This year’s gala will be hosted at The Malla Hotel and Aloft Kathmandu Thamel, with substantial support from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN). Their collaboration as tourism partners reflects Nepal’s growing role as a key destination and contributor to the regional tourism landscape.
Among the top sponsors of this year’s event is UAE’s Gulfcraft, the main sponsor, alongside gold partners The Hawks, Hotels & Resorts Investments Maldives (HARIM), and Velana International Airport. Resort Life Travel and Bizspoke serve as silver partners, while Allied Insurance joins as the insurance partner.
SATA 2024 has received over 400 nominations, reflecting the immense interest and competition in the sector. As the industry continues to recover and evolve, participants are eager to showcase their innovations and the strides they have made in contributing to the region’s growing tourism appeal.

This Type Of Tourism Is On The Rise — And It’s Pretty Depressing, Honestly

LOADINGERROR LOADINGEarlier this summer, U.S. women’s rugby team player Ariana Ramsey came home from the 2024 Paris Olympics with more than just a bronze medal. She also returned with a pair of free eyeglasses and a new TikTok bio that read: “Universal Free Healthcare Advocate.”Following her team’s victory against Australia, the 24-year-old Olympian went viral on TikTok by documenting her experience receiving completely free healthcare in the Olympic Village. Ramsey had dental and vision exams, as well as a pap smear.Advertisement

“Of course, I’m amazed. We don’t have free healthcare in America,” she said in a video responding to people’s comments about her excitement for the complimentary services. “So, yeah, I’m amazed by free healthcare.” @ariana.ramsey And what about it?? Free healthcare in the olympic village, im there 😂😂 #olympicvillage #olympicvillagehealthcare I just had to add this was actually so cute for them to do this with me and they were so sweet!!! shout out to the healthcare workers in the Olympic Village. You guys are amazing and we thank you so much for your service.❤️ ♬ original sound – I think you should leave shop Advertisement