News

Japan's Asuka-Fujiwara Ancient Capitals Receive UNESCO World Heritage Status

The Asuka-Fujiwara Archaeological Sites of Japan’s Ancient Capitals and Related Properties in Nara Prefecture have been officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, highlighting a remarkable cultural landscape that represents the origins of Japan’s political, religious and social foundations while offering travelers a deeper connection to the nation’s ancient heritage. Situated in Asuka Village at the northern entrance of the Kii Peninsula, the newly recognized World Heritage property protects the archaeological remains of Japan’s earliest capital areas. These historic sites preserve evidence of a transformative era more than 1,400 years ago, when Japan developed its first centralized government system, embraced Buddhism and shaped the cultural traditions that continue to influence the country today.

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Vietnam Tourism Hits Record Growth as European Markets Drive Millions of Visitors

Vietnam tourism is witnessing a remarkable rise as millions of international travellers, especially from Europe, are choosing the country for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. With 13.9 million foreign visitors arriving in the first seven months of 2026, Vietnam is moving closer to its 25 million international visitor target, powered by strong European demand, improved global connectivity, and growing interest in its heritage sites, beaches, and diverse travel offerings. The rapid growth highlights Vietnam’s transformation into one of Asia’s most promising tourism destinations. Vietnam is entering a powerful new era of international tourism growth as millions of travellers from around the world continue to discover its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and unique cultural experiences. The country welcomed nearly fourteen million international visitors in the first seven months of 2026, putting Vietnam firmly on the path towards its ambitious twenty-five million foreign visitor target for the year.

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Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines Launch Codeshare Boosting Baku Connectivity

India Travel is set to gain stronger international momentum as Air India and Azerbaijan Airlines establish a strategic codeshare partnership designed to boost seamless connectivity between India and Baku. The agreement allows Air India passengers to access Azerbaijan’s capital through its booking network, with daily flights from Delhi and Mumbai operated by Azerbaijan Airlines. The collaboration will expand travel choices, simplify connections and strengthen tourism, business and cultural ties between the two nations. Air India has strengthened its international connectivity by entering into a new codeshare partnership with Azerbaijan Airlines, creating more convenient travel options between India and Azerbaijan. The agreement allows passengers to access Baku through Air India’s booking network while benefiting from the operational network of Azerbaijan Airlines. The partnership is expected to support increased tourism, business travel and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

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UK and Other Countries Drive Saudi Arabia Inbound Tourism as Kingdom Targets 2030 Growth

Saudi Arabia inbound tourism is gaining global attention as the United Kingdom and other leading countries support the Kingdom’s ambition to become a major international destination. The global markets are contributing to Saudi Arabia’s inbound tourism growth and creating a more diverse and competitive inbound tourism offer. The Kingdom’s vision of connectivity, cultural experiences, luxury tourism and major projects serves its aspiration to become a top tourist destination in the world. Saudi Arabia is developing new appeal and opportunities for travellers around the world while enhancing its presence in the international tourism market with the growth plan till 2030 in mind. Saudi Arabia Inbound Tourism Expansion Gains Momentum As Global Markets Support Vision 2030 Travel Goals Saudi Arabia is accelerating its transformation into a global tourism destination by strengthening international visitor demand, expanding source markets and developing a diverse tourism ecosystem under Vision 2030. Countries such as the United Kingdom, United States and China are becoming increasingly important markets as the Kingdom seeks to attract more international travellers and achieve its ambitious 2030 tourism objectives. Tourism has been positioned as a strategic economic sector through major reforms, including the introduction of the e-visa system, updated tourism regulations, national tourism strategies and investment in hospitality infrastructure. These initiatives have helped Saudi Arabia build a stronger foundation for international tourism growth. The Kingdom surpassed its earlier Vision 2030 tourism target of welcoming 100 million domestic and international visitors seven years ahead of schedule and has since increased its ambition to reach 150 million visitors by 2030. The next phase of growth depends heavily on expanding inbound tourism, attracting high-value international travellers and strengthening global connectivity.

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Vietnam and Japan See Tourism Boom Driven by Direct Flights, Rising Spend and Hidden Destinations

Vietnam and Japan travellers are entering a remarkable tourism boom as stronger air connectivity, rising visitor spending and growing demand for hidden regional destinations reshape travel between the two Asian markets. The surge is being driven by expanded direct flight networks, increasing interest in authentic cultural experiences and higher-value journeys beyond traditional hotspots. With visitor numbers climbing, leisure travel gaining momentum and both countries promoting wider destination choices, the Vietnam–Japan tourism partnership is moving into a new phase of growth that is creating major opportunities for airlines, tourism businesses, local communities and travellers seeking more diverse experiences. Tourism ties between Vietnam and Japan are entering a stronger phase as improved air connectivity, rising traveller spending and growing demand for regional experiences reshape the movement of visitors between the two Asian markets.

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Sri Lanka's Delft Island Emerges as a Global Eco-Tourism Destination

Delft Island is gaining global attention as Sri Lanka pushes forward with a sustainable eco-tourism vision that aims to protect its rare natural beauty while creating a greener future for travel. Recognised as an important destination under the country’s sustainable tourism plans, Delft Island eco tourism development focuses on conservation, responsible visitor experiences, community benefits and environmentally friendly growth. With its wild horses, historic landscapes and untouched coastal charm, the island has the potential to become one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable sustainable travel destinations. Sri Lanka’s Delft Island is emerging as a powerful symbol of sustainable tourism as the country moves forward with plans to develop the island as an eco-friendly destination. Located in the northern Jaffna region, Delft Island has been recognised under Sri Lanka’s sustainable tourism initiatives because of its unique environment, cultural heritage and potential for responsible travel development. The island is not officially declared as a completed zero-emission destination yet. However, government tourism plans show a strong focus on eco-tourism, conservation, renewable solutions and community-based development. With its untouched landscapes, historic sites and rare wildlife, Delft Island could become one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable green tourism destinations. Delft Island’s Hidden Beauty Creates a New Tourism Opportunity Delft Island, also known as Neduntivu, is one of Sri Lanka’s most unique island destinations. It sits in the Palk Strait near the Jaffna Peninsula and offers travellers an experience unlike the country’s more famous beach and city destination

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