Tourism News Page 578
Cora Cora Maldives Celebrates 2024: A Year of Milestones and Memories
As 2024 draws to a close, Cora Cora Maldives, the five-star, multi-award-winning, all-inclusive resort in the pristine Raa Atoll, looks back at the numbers that made the year an unprecedented success. The influx of an impressive 8,852 visitors from 77 different nationalities underscores the resort’s global appeal and its commitment to providing a “Freedom Time” 24/7 experience for all its guests.
Nepal’s First International Balloon Festival elevates adventure tourism to new heights
The inaugural International Balloon Festival in Pokhara, Nepal, is taking adventure tourism to new heights, with participation from 30 countries. Running until January 2, 2025, the festival offers hot air balloon rides that provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas. With 500 commercial flights and 300 non-commercial flights scheduled, the event features morning, afternoon, and evening sessions, aiming to boost tourism in the region and showcase Nepal’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Helsinki’s Cultural Highlights for 2025
Next year, Helsinki promises a remarkable cultural program celebrating Finnish design, art, architecture, and storytelling. From the grand reopening of the iconic Finlandia Hall to the magical 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomins, the year will be filled with exhibitions, celebrations, and international events.
Saudi Arabia looks to influencers to boost tourism sector
Saudi Arabia will turn to social media influencers in an effort to boost tourism in the Kingdom. The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a national marketing services company to strengthen its efforts to reach target audiences in international markets and solidify the Kingdom’s standing on the global tourism map.
Tourism in Hungary at its Highest in Years. Will it Remain in the New Year?
Tourism rates in Hungary are currently the highest they have been in the past four years, and the country is hoping to further increase the number of guests through its Christmas markets, festive attractions and a new tourism campaign.
China’s first homegrown large cruise ship receives 600,000 tourists
China’s first domestically built large cruise ship, Adora Magic City, has completed 84 journeys and welcomed 600,000 tourists in the first year of its commercial operation, according to Shanghai Customs. The ship embarked on its maiden voyage on Jan. 1 and gained popularity among tourists, accounting for 40 percent of China’s international cruise market in 2024.
Costa Blanca Tourism delivers impressive results
The tourism sector in Alicante province closed the year on a strong note, maintaining the high levels of activity seen throughout most of 2024. Occupancy rates on the Costa Blanca exceeded 80 per cent for New Year’s Eve, a figure that was well-received by local establishments. Although slightly lower than the previous year – when New Year’s Day fell on a Monday – this performance remained impressive. Inland accommodations also saw positive results, with occupancy reaching 74 per cent, nine points above the national average.
Edinburgh to Begin Charging Scotland’s First Tourist Tax
The movement to implement tourist taxes is growing. The city of Edinburgh is the latest to join the expanding trend of addressing the challenges brought about by tourism via a tourist tax. According to news reports, the proposed levy has actually been in the works for quite some time. The idea was first floated back in 2019 and a measure was introduced in 2022. Fast forward to this month and it seems councillors in Edinburgh have voted for the introduction of a tourist tax with the goal of raising about 50 million pounds a year, or about $65.8 million, per BBC.
Korean Air celebrates 30 years of service to China
Korean Air celebrates 30 years of connecting Korea and China with commemorative events at four major Chinese airports across its network. The airline hosted passenger appreciation events at Beijing Capital International Airport and Shenyang Taoxian International Airport. The 30th passengers to check in on flight KE2202 from Beijing Capital to Seoul Gimpo, and flight KE832 from Shenyang to Seoul Incheon received round-trip Prestige Class tickets to Korea. All passengers received 30th anniversary commemorative tote bags.
Accor is proud to announce the signing of Sofitel Diamond Crown Hai Phong in Vietnam
Accor, a global leader in hospitality, is proud to announce the signing of Sofitel Diamond Crown Hai Phong in vietnam, a new luxury hotel being developed in partnership with DOJI Group. This exceptional property, set to open in 2026, will be the first internationally acclaimed hotel located in Diamond Crown Hai Phong complex, bringing signature French Zest and offering state-of-the-art facilities at the top of a 45-story Tower.
easyJet and easyJet holidays Big Orange Sale
easyJet and easyJet holidays have launched their jolliest sale of the year - the Big Orange Sale - for Brits looking to explore more of Europe and beyond for less and ideal as a last-minute Christmas gift. Over 1.4 million seats across the network are now available to book with up to 20% off, including over February half-term. Discounted fares are available thousands of easyJet flights to and from the UK between 6 January and 14 December 2025, to 136 destinations on the airline’s unrivalled short-haul network spanning Europe and beyond.
Hyatt and Grupo Piñero Finalize Strategic Joint Venture
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the completion of an agreement for affiliates of Hyatt and Grupo Piñero to enter a long-term, asset-light strategic joint venture, headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, which will manage Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts-branded properties and own the Bahia Principe brand. The 50/50 joint venture increases Hyatt’s all-inclusive portfolio giving guests and World of Hyatt members more opportunities to experience all-inclusive travel.