News

Veltra and Big Bus Tours Launch New Japan Sightseeing Network

Japan tourism may evolve thanks to new sightseeing bus network offered by Veltra and Big Bus Tours. Japan’s tourism industry is set to evolve into a new era as travel companies Veltra Corp and Big Bus Tours Limited consider developing a new hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus network. The two firms have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the possibility of bringing internationally branded sightseeing bus services to major centres in Japan, making it easier for foreign tourists to get around. The proposed partnership aims to strengthen Japan’s inbound tourism infrastructure by creating new travel options for international visitors. The companies will examine suitable locations, tourism demand, transport conditions and operational requirements before deciding where the service could be introduced. The planned sightseeing bus network could provide foreign visitors with a simpler way to discover Japan’s famous attractions while supporting the continued growth of urban tourism.

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Emirates Launches Five New Flexibility Measures for 2026

For travellers flying to Dubai and on its international routes in 2026, Emirates has launched five new travel options designed to give better flexibility, financial protection and peace of mind to customers. With the initiatives, the airline introduces free date changes, slashed refund fees, increased protection for travel and better loyalty program benefits to help customers change their travel plans. The new options show that the airline understands the expectations of the modern traveler, who wants flexible policies, control over plans and protection against flight disruptions and poor value from loyalty programs.

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Vietnam Emerges as Global Travel Gateway via ITE HCMC 2026

Vietnam’s ITE HCMC 2026 builds a global tourism gateway, connecting markets and driving future growth. Vietnam is set to enter a new tourism era as the 20th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2026) is ready to become an influential global marketplace connecting destinations, organizations, and international visitors. Vietnam’s tourism agencies and destinations are anticipated to benefit significantly from this international fair, unlocking potential for the development of MICE tourism and medical tourism and promoting international tourism cooperation. Taking place from 27–29 August 2026 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC), ITE HCMC 2026 will carry the theme “Vibrant Connections – Global Destinations.” The event will showcase Vietnam’s ambition to transform from a fast-growing holiday destination into a strategic gateway linking global tourism markets with Southeast Asia. The expo is expected to attract more than 520 exhibitors and tourism brands, around 260 international buyers from over 40 countries and territories, and more than 21,000 pre-arranged B2B meetings. Around 30,000 visitors are also expected to participate, highlighting the growing importance of the event within the international tourism industry.

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Philippines upgrades Puerto Galera's tourist infrastructure with free Wi-Fi across hotspots.

Puerto Galera tourism gets a digital boost as free Wi-Fi expands across key visitor hotspots. The Philippines is set to give the island destination another shot in the arm by providing free wifi access in some of the area’s most popular spots, as the government looks to both satisfy its tourism-starved citizens and give local businesses a much needed shot in the arm. The government-led digital upgrade was introduced through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) under its Free Wi-Fi for All programme, bringing improved online access to Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. The project reflects the growing importance of digital services in modern tourism, where travellers increasingly depend on internet access for navigation, bookings, payments, communication, and sharing experiences. The launch took place at the Muelle Terminal in Barangay Poblacion, Puerto Galera, marking a significant step towards creating a more connected tourism environment. As one of the Philippines’ recognised beach destinations, Puerto Galera attracts domestic and international visitors, making reliable connectivity an important part of its tourism infrastructure.

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Maldives' national airline expands its AVIAREPS partnership to target India's travel boom.

Maldivian is wanting to better cater to India’s travel boom and is partnering with AVIAREPS India to expand AVIAREPS India’s role even more as a nationwide General Sales Agent (GSA). The idea is to bolster sales as well as build market presence and draw even more Indian travelers to the Maldives. This decision comes as India is still one of the Maldives’ most important tourism markets. This will result in nearly 190,000 people making the trip in 2025 and there will be demand in the leisure market as well as VFR and medical and business travel. The expanded collaboration reflects Maldivian’s long-term commitment to India as a key market for passenger growth and tourism development. By utilising AVIAREPS India’s nationwide presence and aviation sales expertise, the airline plans to strengthen relationships with travel partners, increase brand awareness, and improve access to Maldives travel opportunities for customers across the country.

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Malaysia joins the US, Spain, and Germany at China's hospitality industry gathering in Zhengzhou, featuring over 1,000 exhibitors and 100,000 visitors.

The United States joins Malaysia, Spain, Germany and more nations at HOTELEX Zhengzhou 2026, where 1,000+ exhibitors and 100,000+ trade visitors will gather in Central China from 8–10 August. The United States is aligning with Malaysia, Spain, Germany and more nations as HOTELEX Zhengzhou 2026 prepares to bring together more than 1,000 exhibitors and over 100,000 trade visitors in Central China. From 8–10 August, the Zhengzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre will become a global meeting place for the hospitality, foodservice and catering industries. Moreover, the exhibition is expected to showcase cutting-edge products, commercial technologies and international business opportunities. As companies strengthen partnerships and explore new markets, the event highlights China’s expanding influence as a leading destination for hospitality investment, innovation and cross-border trade.

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