Cuba's tourism industry is facing a deepening crisis. Tourist arrivals have almost halved in the first half of 2026. With fuel shortages, power outages and U.S. sanctions adding to the pressure, Cuba's tourism slump is now deepening an already severe economic crisis. 

Cuba's tourism drops 49% in first half of 2026 

Cuba's tourism industry is facing a deepening crisis. Tourist arrivals have almost halved in the first half of 2026. With fuel shortages, power outages and U.S. sanctions adding to the pressure, Cuba's tourism slump is now deepening an already severe economic crisis. Take a look at this next report for more.


Cuba's tourism slump deepens

Cuba’s vital tourism industry is facing an unprecedented collapse, with international visitor arrivals plunging dramatically in the first half of 2026. Crippled by severe aviation fuel shortages, rolling blackouts, tightening U.S. sanctions, and the departure of major international hotel chains, once-bustling resorts and historic streets across the island sit largely empty.


Cuba's tourism plummets over 50% in historic crisis; tourists vanish from Cuba

Kashmir's tourism industry is watching a possible review of the US travel advisory with cautious optimism. Valley stakeholders believe any easing of the advisory could help restore international tourist confidence and give the region's tourism sector a much-needed boost. Hotels, tour operators and local businesses are hoping improved perceptions of safety will encourage more visitors to return to Jammu and Kashmir. The potential change comes as stakeholders push to revive tourism and rebuild the Valley's image as a global destination.


Kashmir tourism revival: US advisory review sparks fresh hope in valley

A Hollywood blockbuster is putting a centuries-old destination back in the global spotlight. Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey has sparked fresh interest in Greece’s legendary island of Ithaca, with fans eager to explore the landscapes linked to Homer’s epic tale.


Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ turns Greek island of Ithaca into a tourist hotspot

China's economy is increasingly becoming a tale of two contrasting realities. While provinces driven by artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and exports are experiencing rapid economic growth, regions dependent on tourism, real estate, and traditional industries are struggling to keep pace.

The latest provincial economic data highlights a widening K-shaped economic divide, with technology hubs such as Zhejiang, home to Alibaba, DeepSeek, and Unitree Robotics, outperforming the national average. Other manufacturing powerhouses including Shanghai, Anhui, and Shandong have also recorded strong growth, fueled by rising global demand for high-tech products.

China's K-Shaped Economy Deepens as AI Boom Widens Regional Gap

Nepal has formally requested India to recognize its National Identity Card as a valid travel document for Nepali citizens entering the country. If approved, the National Identity Card would become the third accepted travel document alongside passports and citizenship certificates.

The proposal, submitted through diplomatic channels, aims to simplify air and land travel between the two neighboring countries. Nepali authorities say the move could make cross-border movement more convenient for travelers while strengthening people-to-people connectivity.

Nepal seeks India's approval for national ID card as travel document 

The Cape Verde national football team, the "blue sharks" brought massive tourism to the islands by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.


Cape Verde's tourism which is integral to its economy, shows signs of rapid growth 

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma forces aggressive multi-sector policy overhauls to crush regulatory red tape and accelerate major industrial investments. By re-classifying protected lands for non-agricultural industrial exploitation, the state cabinet prepares a major legislative push to bypass traditional bottlenecks for energy and manufacturing giants.

Assam Cabinet Clears Land Reforms, Eases Rules for Investors

China’s tourism sector is expanding rapidly, driven by visa-free entry policies, massive investments in high-speed rail and aviation, and a surge in domestic travel demand. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the industry could nearly double in value by 2036, positioning China to potentially surpass the United States as the world’s largest tourism market. With millions of international arrivals and billions of domestic trips annually, analysts say improved connectivity, digital payments, and rising consumer spending on experiences are reshaping the country’s travel landscape.


China Cruising to Become World’s Top Tourism Market 

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already triggering a major global tourism surge, with hotels, airlines, and travel companies preparing for a massive influx of football fans. As excitement builds ahead of the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the travel and hospitality sectors are witnessing rising bookings, increased demand, and fresh business opportunities linked to the world’s biggest football event.


FIFA World Cup 2026: World Cup Fever Drives Tourism Surge; Massive Boost for Hotels & Airlines

Protests have erupted in Albania over a controversial luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, who is part of the Trump family. Environmental groups and local activists say the planned development on a protected coastal area could seriously harm biodiversity and fragile ecosystems. While supporters highlight investment and tourism benefits, critics warn the project may damage one of Albania’s most sensitive natural landscapes, triggering a growing environmental and political debate.


Albania Protests Erupt Over Resort Project Linked to Trump’s Son-In-Law

Thailand has announced stricter oversight measures in its tourism sector following reports of public indecency incidents involving tourists. Authorities say the move is aimed at preserving public order, protecting cultural values, and maintaining the country’s global tourism image. Officials have warned that violators will face strict legal action as Thailand continues to welcome millions of international visitors each year.

Thailand Tourism: Thailand Vows Strict Oversight After Public Sex Incidents

Bali is battling a growing waste crisis as garbage piles up across popular tourist spots. The situation worsened after the island’s largest landfill restricted organic waste, disrupting disposal systems. With beaches and streets affected, authorities are scrambling for solutions while concerns rise over tourism, the environment, and public health. The crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable waste management.


Bali Faces Waste Crisis: Tourist Hotspots Overflow As Landfill Ban Triggers Trash Surge 

Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a strong revival as nearly 4 lakh visitors flocked to Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar this April. The vibrant bloom has attracted tourists from across India and beyond, signalling renewed confidence in the region’s travel sector. The surge comes even as authorities continue efforts to restore normalcy and promote tourism after past security concerns.


India: Nearly 4 Lakh People Visited Asia's Largest Tulip Garden In April 

Worsening wildfires, soaring heatwaves and rising water levels have prompted Greek officials to take a closer look at protecting priceless archaeological sites that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The monuments, scattered across the country, earn Greece millions of dollars in tourism revenue.

But many of the sites are in rural areas and officials believe better planning is needed in case large crowds of tourists need to be evacuated in an emergency.



Greece's Ancient Sites Under Climate Strain; 19 Sites at Urgent Climate Risk

The Kashmir Valley is stepping up security and surveillance at key tourist destinations to ensure visitor safety following the 2025 Pahalgam attack. Authorities have implemented new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including CCTV monitoring, visitor registration, routine patrols, and checkpoints at popular scenic spots.

Kashmir Valley Ramps Up Security, Tight Surveillance at Key Tourist Sites

#Gravitas Five years into the war with Ukraine, Russia is turning decisively away from the West and deepening ties with the Gulf.  And that pivot is reshaping tourism, with a surge of tourism from Arab nations. 


Russia Tourism: Arab Tourists Flock to Russian Welcome

#Gravitas Five years into the war with Ukraine, Russia is turning decisively away from the West and deepening ties with the Gulf.  And that pivot is reshaping tourism, with a surge of tourism from Arab nations. 

Tourism in Kashmir is showing signs of recovery after a period of security-related disruptions. Visitors are returning to the valley, drawn by its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and improved safety measures. Local businesses and hospitality sectors report increased bookings and footfall, signaling optimism for economic revival. Authorities continue to focus on maintaining security while promoting Kashmir as a safe and attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists.


Kashmir: Tourism Bounce Back in Valley After Security Related Incidents

As Sri Lanka reshapes its tourism narrative on the global stage, entrepreneur Ravidu Mario Weerakoon is emerging with a distinctive journey from technology to hospitality, transforming international business experience into a community-driven tourism venture.Weerakoon set an ambitious goal at the age of 19: to achieve financial independence before turning 30. Over the next decade, he built a career spanning artificial intelligence, digital marketing, logistics, and cross-border commerce, working across international markets and developing scalable digital systems.One of his most notable ventures was Surf2Ship, a global price comparison and logistics platform designed to simplify international shopping and shipping. The platform aimed to bridge the gap between consumers and global marketplaces by addressing complex cross-border logistics challenges. What began as a startup concept evolved into a venture that attracted multinational attention. Weerakoon later sold Surf2Ship to a Singapore-based company. Due to economic instability and pandemic-related disruptions during its early development, the platform was temporarily laid dormant. However, its underlying infrastructure continues to operate quietly within one of the largest e-commerce ecosystems in the world.While the technology chapter marked significant professional milestones, Weerakoon describes the most transformative shift as personal rather than commercial.&nbsp;<h2>From Pressure to Purpose</h2>&nbsp;Between 2018 and 2019, during a period of intense stress and professional demands, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon made a conscious decision to change direction. Instead of allowing pressure to define his path, he turned to structured education and professional growth.He completed three UK chartered qualifications through the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and the Chartered Management Institute. He later earned a Master’s degree from the University of Gloucestershire. This academic phase, he notes, provided discipline, clarity, and a broader strategic perspective that would later influence his approach to business.During the same period, Weerakoon gained significant international exposure, living and traveling across Thailand, the UAE, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Oman. These experiences offered firsthand insight into diverse cultural ecosystems and hospitality models.His time in Dubai proved particularly influential. Working in AI and digital marketing while living in one of the world’s most multicultural cities, he observed how intentional urban planning and hospitality design can foster coexistence at scale. The seamless interaction of different religions, languages, and cultures within shared spaces left a lasting impression.This observation sparked a new line of thinking. If commerce connects goods and technology connects data, what connects people?His answer was travel.&nbsp;<h2>Transforming Vision Into Hospitality</h2>&nbsp;Together with his family, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon launched Ceylon Lodge Airport Transit Hostel in Sri Lanka, positioning it not as a conventional budget accommodation but as a globally minded social hub.The property is intentionally designed around shared experiences and interpersonal interaction. It features a spacious communal hangout area, a dedicated movie zone, BBQ facilities for group evenings, a swimming pool with jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, and an in-house restaurant and bar. The layout and programming are aimed at encouraging communication among travelers from different parts of the world.Unlike traditional hospitality models that focus primarily on occupancy rates, Ceylon Lodge emphasizes community building. The concept targets transit travelers and international visitors seeking affordable comfort combined with meaningful social engagement.&nbsp;<h2>Reinvesting Global Experience Into Local Growth</h2>&nbsp;Weerakoon’s transition from tech entrepreneur to hospitality developer reflects a broader reinvestment into Sri Lanka at a time when the country is redefining its economic and tourism outlook. By channeling capital, global exposure, and operational discipline back into the country, he aims to contribute to a modern, globally aligned tourism ecosystem.The entrepreneur who once spoke of early retirement now speaks of longevity and sustainable impact. His move from building digital infrastructure to developing physical hospitality spaces signals an expansion of ambition rather than a departure from it.Surf2Ship focused on moving products across borders.Ceylon Lodge focuses on bringing people together across cultures.As Sri Lanka prepares for renewed international engagement, ventures like Ceylon Lodge highlight a growing wave of globally experienced entrepreneurs returning home to build locally rooted yet internationally relevant enterprises.For Ravidu Mario Weerakoon, the journey from tech exit to tourism is not merely a career pivot. It marks the beginning of a new chapter centered on connection, coexistence, and long-term impact.&nbsp;

Between 2018 and 2019, during a period of intense stress and professional demands, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon made a conscious decision to change direction. Instead of allowing pressure to define his path, he turned to structured education and professional growth.

As Sri Lanka reshapes its tourism narrative on the global stage, entrepreneur Ravidu Mario Weerakoon is emerging with a distinctive journey from technology to hospitality, transforming international business experience into a community-driven tourism venture. Weerakoon set an ambitious goal at the age of 19: to achieve financial independence before turning 30. Over the next decade, he built a career spanning artificial intelligence, digital marketing, logistics, and cross-border commerce, working across international markets and developing scalable digital systems. One of his most notable ventures was Surf2Ship, a global price comparison and logistics platform designed to simplify international shopping and shipping. The platform aimed to bridge the gap between consumers and global marketplaces by addressing complex cross-border logistics challenges. What began as a startup concept evolved into a venture that attracted multinational attention. Weerakoon later sold Surf2Ship to a Singapore-based company. Due to economic instability and pandemic-related disruptions during its early development, the platform was temporarily laid dormant. However, its underlying infrastructure continues to operate quietly within one of the largest e-commerce ecosystems in the world. While the technology chapter marked significant professional milestones, Weerakoon describes the most transformative shift as personal rather than commercial. From Pressure to Purpose Between 2018 and 2019, during a period of intense stress and professional demands, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon made a conscious decision to change direction. Instead of allowing pressure to define his path, he turned to structured education and professional growth. He completed three UK chartered qualifications through the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and the Chartered Management Institute. He later earned a Master’s degree from the University of Gloucestershire. This academic phase, he notes, provided discipline, clarity, and a broader strategic perspective that would later influence his approach to business. During the same period, Weerakoon gained significant international exposure, living and traveling across Thailand, the UAE, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Oman. These experiences offered firsthand insight into diverse cultural ecosystems and hospitality models. His time in Dubai proved particularly influential. Working in AI and digital marketing while living in one of the world’s most multicultural cities, he observed how intentional urban planning and hospitality design can foster coexistence at scale. The seamless interaction of different religions, languages, and cultures within shared spaces left a lasting impression. This observation sparked a new line of thinking. If commerce connects goods and technology connects data, what connects people? His answer was travel. Transforming Vision Into Hospitality Together with his family, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon launched Ceylon Lodge Airport Transit Hostel in Sri Lanka, positioning it not as a conventional budget accommodation but as a globally minded social hub. The property is intentionally designed around shared experiences and interpersonal interaction. It features a spacious communal hangout area, a dedicated movie zone, BBQ facilities for group evenings, a swimming pool with jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, and an in-house restaurant and bar. The layout and programming are aimed at encouraging communication among travelers from different parts of the world. Unlike traditional hospitality models that focus primarily on occupancy rates, Ceylon Lodge emphasizes community building. The concept targets transit travelers and international visitors seeking affordable comfort combined with meaningful social engagement. Reinvesting Global Experience Into Local Growth Weerakoon’s transition from tech entrepreneur to hospitality developer reflects a broader reinvestment into Sri Lanka at a time when the country is redefining its economic and tourism outlook. By channeling capital, global exposure, and operational discipline back into the country, he aims to contribute to a modern, globally aligned tourism ecosystem. The entrepreneur who once spoke of early retirement now speaks of longevity and sustainable impact. His move from building digital infrastructure to developing physical hospitality spaces signals an expansion of ambition rather than a departure from it. Surf2Ship focused on moving products across borders. Ceylon Lodge focuses on bringing people together across cultures. As Sri Lanka prepares for renewed international engagement, ventures like Ceylon Lodge highlight a growing wave of globally experienced entrepreneurs returning home to build locally rooted yet internationally relevant enterprises. For Ravidu Mario Weerakoon, the journey from tech exit to tourism is not merely a career pivot. It marks the beginning of a new chapter centered on connection, coexistence, and long-term impact.

Between 2018 and 2019, during a period of intense stress and professional demands, Ravidu Mario Weerakoon made a conscious decision to change direction. Instead of allowing pressure to define his path, he turned to structured education and professional growth.

Tech Exit to Tourism: Ceylon Lodge Opened by Ravidu Mario Weerakoon as a New Global Social Hub in Sri Lanka

SATTE (South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange) brings together global travel leaders, tourism boards, and industry stakeholders in New Delhi. The premier travel trade exhibition showcases destinations, innovations, and partnerships shaping the future of tourism in South Asia and beyond. Stay tuned for highlights, key announcements, and industry insights from the event.


SATTE 2026: South Asia's Travel And Tourism Exchange From Feb 25-27

SATTE (South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange) brings together global travel leaders, tourism boards, and industry stakeholders in New Delhi. The premier travel trade exhibition showcases destinations, innovations, and partnerships shaping the future of tourism in South Asia and beyond. Stay tuned for highlights, key announcements, and industry insights from the event.

SATTE: South Asia's Travel & Tourism Exchange in New Delhi

Jammu and Kashmir’s Valley travel sector is witnessing renewed activity after an extended period of disruption. Tourism-linked businesses and local operators report a gradual return of demand as movement and bookings pick up. The shift signals cautious optimism for the region’s tourism-dependent economy following shutdown.


J&K: Valley Travel Sector Sees Fresh Momentum After Long Shutdown | WION 

Fresh snowfall across Kashmir has triggered a tourism boom, drawing crowds back to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg with full hotel occupancy.

Snowfall Sparks Kashmir Tourism Boom: Hotels Report Full Occupancy 

Cuba’s worsening fuel crisis is now hitting one of its most critical industries - tourism. Resorts are reportedly shutting operations due to gasoline shortages, forcing guests to be relocated to other hotels. Workers say there is not enough fuel for employees to commute, triggering closures during what is normally peak tourist season.

Fuel Crisis Hits Cuba Beach Resorts |  Tourism Arrivals Already Down to 20-year Low

Social media platforms like X and Instagram are full of breathtaking footage of what appears to be the frozen Niagara Falls. When the temperature falls, mist crystallises into floating ice shards, railings turn white, and the gorge takes on a muffled quiet. While the Falls do not freeze solid, extreme cold paired with Arctic winds creates spectacular ice formations that transform the landscape into a winter fairy tale. 


Video of Frozen Niagara Falls Go Viral

From tourism and hospitality to Medicare and wellness, Kerala has emerged as a global destination. As leaders prepare for the Davos 2026 summit from January 19, discover why Kerala stands out at India’s pavilion at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland.

Kerala' Power-packed Delegation at Davos 2026 | Invest in Kerala 

At the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos,
Kerala invites investors to seize clear, growth-driven opportunities shaped by a strong commitment to climate responsibility.
Kerala is powering ahead with various renewable energy sources. 
Kerala’s pledge to reach net zero emissions by 2050, well ahead of India’s national target, has propelled the state to the forefront of climate leadership. Watch how Kerala has emerged as a leader in sustainable development .

Davos 2026 | Kerala’s Green Tech and Climate Goals | WION at DAVOS 

Kerala shows how tourism can grow without losing its soul. From eco-trails and heritage homes to Ayurveda and community-first models, God’s Own Country is building a future-ready tourism economy rooted in balance, wellbeing, and sustainability. Join WION and Kerala at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, Switzerland.

Kerala at Davos 2026 | Building a Future-Ready Tourism Economy

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Cuba's tourism drops 49% in first half of 2026

Cuba's tourism slump deepens

Cuba's tourism plummets over 50% in historic crisis; tourists vanish from Cuba

Kashmir tourism revival: US advisory review sparks fresh hope in valley

Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ turns Greek island of Ithaca into a tourist hotspot

China's K-Shaped Economy Deepens as AI Boom Widens Regional Gap

Nepal seeks India's approval for national ID card as travel document

Cape Verde's tourism which is integral to its economy, shows signs of rapid growth

Assam Cabinet Clears Land Reforms, Eases Rules for Investors

China Cruising to Become World’s Top Tourism Market

FIFA World Cup 2026: World Cup Fever Drives Tourism Surge; Massive Boost for Hotels & Airlines

Albania Protests Erupt Over Resort Project Linked to Trump’s Son-In-Law

Thailand Tourism: Thailand Vows Strict Oversight After Public Sex Incidents

Bali Faces Waste Crisis: Tourist Hotspots Overflow As Landfill Ban Triggers Trash Surge

India: Nearly 4 Lakh People Visited Asia's Largest Tulip Garden In April

India: Nearly 4 Lakh People Visited Asia's Largest Tulip Garden In April

Greece's Ancient Sites Under Climate Strain; 19 Sites at Urgent Climate Risk

Kashmir Valley Ramps Up Security, Tight Surveillance at Key Tourist Sites

Russia Tourism: Arab Tourists Flock to Russian Welcome

Russia Tourism: Arab Tourists Flock to Russian Welcome

Kashmir: Tourism Bounce Back in Valley After Security Related Incidents

Ceylon Lodge of Ravidu Mario Weerakoon now a New Global Social Hub in Sri Lanka

SATTE 2026: South Asia's Travel And Tourism Exchange From Feb 25-27

SATTE: South Asia's Travel & Tourism Exchange in New Delhi

J&K: Valley Travel Sector Sees Fresh Momentum After Long Shutdown | WION

Snowfall Sparks Kashmir Tourism Boom: Hotels Report Full Occupancy