News

Vietnam’s Central Coast Sets a New Standard for Luxury Golf Tourism

Vietnam’s Central Coast is strengthening its reputation as one of Asia’s most attractive golf tourism destinations because it offers far more than championship courses, combining luxury resorts, cultural landmarks, iconic beaches, and improving international air access that makes travel easier for long-haul visitors, while growing confidence in Vietnam’s tourism economy continues to draw golfers from Europe, North America, Australia, and key Asian markets seeking high-value, experience-rich holidays. Central Vietnam is preparing for another standout year in golf tourism as the Vietnam Golf Coast sharpens its ambition to remain one of Asia’s most attractive golf destinations. What began as a focused regional initiative has grown into a powerful tourism brand, driven by steady gains in international travel, stronger air links, and rising confidence in Vietnam’s broader economic outlook. The momentum in golf reflects a wider story unfolding across the country. Vietnam has been drawing attention in international business circles for its consistent growth and expanding middle class, and this optimism is now clearly visible in the tourism sector. Golf, in particular, has emerged as a high-value segment, attracting long-haul travelers who are looking for more than just a round of eighteen holes. In Central Vietnam, the experience blends championship courses with luxury resorts, heritage sites, and some of the most scenic coastline in Southeast Asia. At the heart of this appeal is the Hue–Da Nang corridor, where golf courses sit within easy reach of beaches, historic towns, and modern hospitality infrastructure. Danang International Airport has become a critical gateway, steadily adding routes and capacity that make the region increasingly accessible from Europe, North America, Australia, and across Asia. This improved connectivity has allowed golf tourism to grow not only in volume but also in diversity, with visitors arriving from a broader mix of markets than ever before.

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Why Global Travelers Are Closely Tracking the Middle East Travel Boom in 2026

The global travel industry is entering a powerful new phase. One region is leading this change. The Middle East Travel Market Growth 2026 is shaping how people travel, where they go, and how they spend. For travellers, this growth is more than industry news. It is a sign of better routes, wider choices, and smarter travel experiences. Across the Middle East, outbound travel demand is rising fast. Travellers are planning longer trips. They are spending more. They are exploring new destinations. This momentum is expected to continue well beyond 2026. Travel spending from the region is forecast to cross major milestones in the coming years. For global tourists, this creates new opportunities to connect, explore, and experience the world differently. The Middle East Travel Market Growth 2026 reflects a deep shift in traveller behaviour. More people in the region now travel internationally for leisure, culture, and discovery. Family holidays, luxury breaks, adventure trips, and wellness travel are all growing strongly. This demand is not limited to one country. It stretches across the Gulf, North Africa, and the wider Middle East. Airlines are expanding routes. Tour operators are adding new packages. Hotels are upgrading services. For travellers worldwide, this means stronger competition, better pricing, and more travel-friendly options.

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Middle East Outbound Travel Spend Hits $60 Billion, Reshaping Global Tourism

The travel world is witnessing a remarkable transformation. The Middle East is emerging as a major force in global tourism. Middle East outbound travel spending is expected to exceed $60 billion by 2030, signalling a new era for both travellers and the tourism industry. This growth is not just about numbers; it reflects a rising appetite for experiences, adventure, and luxury. Airlines are expanding routes, hotels are upgrading facilities, and destinations around the world are preparing to welcome an influx of travellers from the Gulf region. For global tourists, understanding these trends is becoming essential for planning smarter, more rewarding trips. Middle East outbound travel spending has seen steady increases over recent years, reflecting higher incomes, lifestyle changes, and stronger travel confidence. Families, young travellers, and high-net-worth tourists are all contributing to this growth. This trend is reshaping the global tourism industry. Hotels in Europe, Asia, and Africa are expanding their offerings to meet rising demand. Airlines are adding new routes and increasing flight frequencies. Even smaller destinations are investing in infrastructure to attract Middle Eastern travellers.

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Virgin Atlantic to Launch Nonstop London–Phuket Flights in Winter 2026

UK and Thailand Travel Get Even Better as Virgin Atlantic’s New Non-Stop Service from London to Phuket Opens Doors to Paradise in Winter 2026. This exciting new route, launching on October 18, 2026, is set to revolutionize travel between the UK and Thailand, providing the only direct flight from London Heathrow to Phuket. Offering three weekly non-stop services, this new connection will allow travelers to seamlessly escape the winter chill and dive straight into the tropical paradise of Phuket, with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. With Virgin Atlantic’s impeccable service aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the journey promises to be as enjoyable as the destination itself. In a move set to make waves in the travel industry, Virgin Atlantic is launching a new direct, seasonal route from London Heathrow (LHR) to Thailand’s iconic Phuket Island. Starting October 18, 2026, this will be the only non-stop flight from Heathrow to Phuket, offering a seamless travel experience to one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations. With the service operating three times a week, this direct connection promises to be a game-changer for both sun-seekers and culture enthusiasts heading to Thailand’s tropical paradise. Virgin Atlantic’s new direct flight service marks a significant milestone for UK and Thailand travel, providing unparalleled convenience for those looking to escape the chill of the British winter. The flight, operated aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, will depart from Heathrow three times per week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, offering a flexible schedule for vacationers and business travelers alike. This flight will be the first and only non-stop connection from London to Phuket, a major win for those eager to avoid long layovers and make the most of their precious vacation time. The Dreamliner aircraft, known for its exceptional comfort and advanced amenities, ensures a smooth and relaxing journey, allowing passengers to enjoy high-tech features such as large windows, reduced cabin pressure, and enhanced in-flight entertainment.

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Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Boom Accelerates as Marriott Adds Thousands of New Hotel Rooms

In a major step towards enhancing Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure, Al Qimmah Hospitality, a subsidiary of BinDawood Investment, has announced a significant partnership with Marriott International. This collaboration is set to introduce five new hotel projects in critical cities, including Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, adding over 2,700 rooms across four Marriott brands. The brands involved in this expansion include JW Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, Element Hotels, and a new introduction to the country, Four Points Flex by Sheraton. This strategic move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goal to establish itself as a leading global tourism hub. The partnership between Al Qimmah Hospitality and Marriott International marks a significant investment in the Kingdom’s growing tourism sector. With the introduction of these new hotels, the focus is on expanding and diversifying the country’s accommodation offerings. The five new projects aim to provide both local and international tourists with high-quality accommodations across several key cities, namely Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah. These developments will also help support Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming one of the leading tourism destinations in the world. The demand for premium accommodations has surged as more travelers are visiting the Kingdom, especially due to religious tourism in Makkah and Madinah. By partnering with Marriott, Al Qimmah Hospitality is positioning itself to meet the demand for diverse, high-standard hotels that cater to a broad range of travelers, including those seeking luxury, extended stays, and affordable options. This collaboration signals the Kingdom’s growing importance in the global tourism market.

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Thailand Crowned Best Tourist Country 2026 at the Grand Travel Awards

In January 2026, the Land of Smiles added more than a few reasons to celebrate. At the prestigious Grand Travel Award 2026 held in Oslo, Norway, Thailand was officially crowned the “Best Tourist Country,” marking a triumphant second consecutive year at the top. But the accolades didn’t stop there. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was also honored as the “Best Tourist Office,” a testament to the kingdom’s relentless effort to remain the world’s most beloved destination. On January 8, 2026, the elite of the Norwegian travel industry gathered at a star-studded ceremony in Oslo for the Grand Travel Awards. Organised by Travel News Norge, these awards are considered the ultimate benchmark of excellence in the Nordic region, determined by the votes of nearly 800 travel agents, tour operators, and industry professionals. For the second year in a row, Thailand stood alone at the summit, proving that its allure transcends simple vacation trends.The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was recognized for its effective market engagement and long-term partnerships across Scandinavia. The awards were accepted by a high-level delegation, including H.E. Ms. Nitivadee Manitkul, Ambassador of Thailand to Norway, and Mrs. Patsalin Swetarat, Director of the TAT Stockholm Office. Their presence underscored the diplomatic and economic importance of the Norwegian market to Thailand’s tourism recovery.

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