“Azerbaijan’s health tourism potential can only be realised through close cooperation between the tourism and healthcare sectors,” said Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the opening. “Our priority is to translate that potential into high-quality services, trusted international partnerships and a coordinated strategy that delivers lasting benefits for visitors and local communities.”

Organised by the State Tourism Agency, the two-day conference runs until 5 November. The programme includes medical and wellness tourism discussions, an exhibition, business meetings and a Global Healthcare Accreditation seminar.

Azerbaijan prepares a health tourism strategy

Addressing the conference, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Health, Nadir Zeynalov, said developing health tourism could support improvements in healthcare services and strengthen the country’s international competitiveness. He identified service quality, patient safety and cooperation between public institutions and private providers as priorities.

Zeynalov said Azerbaijan’s geographical position, medical infrastructure, specialists and tourism offer provide a foundation for becoming a regional medical tourism centre. Achieving that objective would require closer collaboration between healthcare institutions, tourism businesses, investors and international partners.

The conference comes as the country prepares a dedicated framework for the sector under its State Programme on the Development of Tourism for 2026–2030. As Travel Tomorrow previously reported, the programme includes plans for a health tourism strategy and action plan, alongside measures to support international accreditation.

Speaking to journalists at the conference, Elgun Javadov, head of the Cultural Heritage and Regional Tourism Department at the State Tourism Agency, explained that a concept and strategy document would help define Azerbaijan’s positioning and identify the resources required to develop the sector.

Javadov stressed that health tourism could not be developed by a single organisation or sector. The conference, he said, was intended to bring partners together to discuss priorities and apply relevant international experience.

Building patient confidence

International accreditation and the coordination of patient care were recurring themes in the opening discussions. Monish Arora, deputy CEO of Sea Breeze Health Valley, said Azerbaijan already has healthcare capacity, but providers must demonstrate that their services meet international expectations.

He called for clear responsibilities and better support throughout the patient’s journey, from the first enquiry to treatment and follow-up. Alongside accreditation and clinical standards, he highlighted practical requirements such as timely responses, communication in the patient’s language and reliable arrangements for transfers and accommodation.

Michel Julian, senior programme officer at UN Tourism, emphasised that a successful strategy requires a long-term vision and cooperation between healthcare and tourism institutions. Understanding target markets and building a reputation for quality, he said, are central to gaining the confidence of prospective patients.

Julian pointed to market diversification as another consideration, citing South Korea as an example of a destination attracting patients from different countries. Trust and a clear destination image, he argued, need to be built over time.

Measuring medical tourism consistently

The discussions also addressed how Azerbaijan can measure the sector’s development and compare its performance with other destinations. Participants highlighted the difficulties created by inconsistent definitions and data collection methods.

Julian stressed the importance of identifying the traveller’s primary motivation. Travel undertaken principally for treatment, diagnosis or other health purposes needs to be distinguished from healthcare received in other circumstances, including by foreign workers living in a destination.

Countries can combine sources such as hospital surveys, visa information and data collected by tourism authorities and statistical institutions, he explained. Using consistent definitions helps avoid double counting and makes international comparisons more meaningful.

Connecting medical care and wellness

While the opening day focused on medical tourism, the conference also examines opportunities in wellness, prevention and rehabilitation. Azerbaijan’s offer includes mineral and thermal waters, therapeutic muds, resort facilities and Naftalan oil, which has a long history of use in local treatment traditions.

The country has also been developing links with European health tourism organisations. Earlier in 2026, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board joined the European Spas Association as an advisory member during the HEALTHXCHANGE Summit in Varna.

L’article Health Tourism Conference opens in Baku with focus on quality and international growth est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

According to Angola’s Ministry of Tourism, the distinction recognises Daniel’s leadership in reforming the sector and his efforts to attract tourism investment. Winners are selected through a combination of independent judging and public voting, with criteria including innovation, sustainability, leadership and contributions to tourism development across Africa.

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The recognition comes as Angola seeks to position tourism as a driver of economic diversification. Under Daniel’s leadership, the ministry says the country has introduced reforms to simplify administrative procedures, digitise tourism licensing, improve land-use planning and expand concessions for tourism assets. These measures are intended to improve the business environment and encourage private investment.

Angola has also become the first African founding member of UNT-PASS, according to the ministry. The UN Tourism initiative aims to connect tourism projects with institutional and private investors and facilitate access to international financing. Angola’s participation forms part of its broader investment strategy, which includes cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

The country’s international profile received a further boost through its role as the official host country of ITB Berlin 2026. Angola became the third African nation to hold the distinction, using the trade fair to showcase its natural and cultural attractions and present tourism investment opportunities to international partners.

The ministry described the award as international recognition of Angola’s efforts to establish tourism as a strategic sector of the economy. Its stated objectives include creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, attracting investors and generating employment for young people and local communities.

L’article Angola’s Márcio Daniel named Tourism Personality of the Year at Africa Tourism Awards 2026 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The gathering built on the inaugural event, held at the same venue in July 2025 under the title “The Enchanting Trio”. With Nepal joining Bhutan, the Maldives and Sri Lanka, this year’s edition broadened the geographical scope while maintaining a shared focus on tourism that supports communities and protects the places travellers come to experience.

EU highlights tourism’s role in sustainable development

Guest of honour Dominic Porter, Deputy Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service, connected the destinations’ presentations with the European Union’s work on sustainable development. He described tourism as a source of employment, cultural exchange and conservation, while outlining EU support for businesses, heritage protection and greener tourism practices across the region.

“Tourism still holds much untapped potential to promote connections between people,” Porter said. He highlighted assistance for local guesthouses and safari vessels in the Maldives, cultural heritage and sustainable tourism projects in Nepal, and support for Sri Lankan tourism businesses recovering from economic crises.

Bhutan: kindness, mindfulness and a lighter footprint

For Bhutan’s Ambassador Tshoki Choden, the visitor experience begins with something less tangible than scenery: the freedom to feel welcome and at ease. “One of the greatest luxuries of travel is being able to let your guard down,” she said, presenting kindness and hospitality as defining features of a journey through the Himalayan kingdom.

Choden linked that welcome to Bhutan’s approach to development, describing mindfulness as a principle that shapes both everyday life and tourism policy. She highlighted the country’s constitutional commitment to maintaining at least 60% forest cover and its high-value, low-impact tourism model, which seeks to protect cultural heritage and the environment while benefiting local communities.

“We believe that not everything has to be conquered to prosper,” she said, referring to Bhutan’s unconquered mountains. Her invitation also extended to the country’s food, including its famously fiery combination of chillies and cheese, and to a broader exploration of what happiness means beyond material possessions.

Nepal: adventure and spiritual discovery

Nepal’s Ambassador Sewa Lamsal presented a destination where adventure, cultural diversity and spiritual heritage sit alongside one another. Moving from the Himalayas to the country’s southern plains, she described opportunities for trekking, rafting, paragliding and mountain biking, as well as quieter experiences centred on meditation and reflection.

“Welcoming visitors with respect and generosity is perhaps the greatest gift people carry home,” Lamsal said. She highlighted Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, alongside Nepal’s temples, monasteries and pilgrimage traditions, inviting travellers to explore a country whose appeal extends well beyond its best-known mountain routes.

Well-being was another theme of her address, with Lamsal encouraging visitors to discover Nepal through cultural immersion, mindfulness and time in nature. She also invited investors and business leaders to explore opportunities in the tourism sector, placing local hospitality at the heart of its future development.

Sri Lanka: an island of discovery and serendipity

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador Chandana Weerasena drew on his country’s long history of welcoming travellers, describing an island shaped by maritime connections and encounters between cultures. “We continue building bridges and sharing the very best of what our countries have to offer,” he said, introducing a destination he associated with discovery and serendipity.

His presentation reflected the breadth of Sri Lanka’s appeal, from its Indian Ocean setting to its cultural heritage. Travel Tomorrow’s reporting has explored that variety through experiences such as Isiwara Ayurvedic Village in Matale, where spice gardens, cooking and traditional practices offer visitors an introduction to local knowledge and daily life.

The country has also taken steps to encourage international arrivals. As Travel Tomorrow reported in May, Sri Lanka introduced a free Electronic Travel Authorization scheme for tourists from 40 countries, including Belgium, while retaining the requirement to obtain authorisation before travelling.

Maldives prepares for ITB Berlin 2027 spotlight

Represented by Ambassador Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed, the Maldives participated as it prepares for a prominent place on the international tourism calendar. The island nation will be the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, taking place from 16 to 18 March, providing a platform to showcase its hospitality, cultural diversity and tourism experiences to the global travel industry.

The preparations form part of a wider promotional push that includes Visit Maldives Year 2027. Alongside its established luxury offering, developments such as a proposed electric hydrofoil boat network illustrate efforts to improve connections between islands while reducing the environmental impact of transport.

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A shared commitment to responsible travel

Across the four presentations, hospitality emerged as the common thread linking very different landscapes and travel experiences. Porter’s closing message returned to the importance of ensuring that tourism benefits the people and ecosystems on which it depends: “You can count on us to accompany you on this journey every step of the way.”

L’article Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka showcase sustainable tourism in Brussels est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The announcements form part of a wider modernisation drive, with approximately 6.5 trillion tenge to be allocated from the National Fund by the end of 2029. While the programme addresses public services, housing and economic development, its transport priorities also have implications for a country seeking to expand tourism and strengthen connections between Europe and Asia.

New airports and stronger regional access

Aviation featured prominently in the address, with Tokayev arguing that Kazakhstan needs better infrastructure on the ground to benefit from its position beneath major air corridors connecting Europe and Asia.

“Key air corridors connecting Europe and Asia pass through our territory. This represents an enormous competitive advantage, yet one that, so far, exists largely on the pages of glossy presentations,” Tokayev said. He called for better ground-based service infrastructure to translate that geographical position into economic benefits.

He said construction of a modern airport in Astana would begin in 2027 in partnership with a leading international company. The address did not identify the partner or provide details of the airport’s planned capacity, cost or opening date.

Alongside the capital project, Tokayev said the restoration of Arkalyk Airport had been completed and that airports in Zaysan, Katon-Karagay and Kenderli would become operational in the near future.

For the travel industry, the regional projects could help broaden access beyond Kazakhstan’s main urban gateways. Their eventual contribution to tourism will depend on the services airlines introduce, onward transport and the accommodation and visitor facilities available locally.

In his State of the Nation Address to the People of Kazakhstan President @TokayevKZ has set out a vision for the country’s next stage of development. The agenda: a competitive economy, modern infrastructure, accelerated digital transformation and higher living standards – building a Just, Strong, Clean and Progressive #Kazakhstan.

— Press Office of the President of Kazakhstan (@aqorda_press) October 28, 2026

Roads and services matter for destination development

Tokayev also called for higher standards across the road network, placing responsibility for both national and local roads with the government through the Ministry of Transport. He criticised delays, fragmented responsibilities and inadequate roadside infrastructure, while demanding the completion of reconstruction work at road border crossings in 2027.

These priorities are relevant to tourism across a geographically extensive country, where reaching natural attractions and regional destinations often requires substantial journeys by road. Better surfaces, reliable services and more efficient crossings could improve conditions for domestic travellers, international visitors and tour operators.

The broader “People’s Construction” initiative will include transport and utilities alongside healthcare, education, sporting and cultural facilities. Tokayev described it as the largest infrastructure project in Kazakhstan’s history and proposed declaring 2027 the Year of Nationwide Large-Scale Construction.

Its primary purpose is to improve living conditions for residents. For destinations seeking to welcome more visitors, dependable water supplies, functioning utilities and well-maintained public spaces also provide essential foundations.

In his State of the Nation Address, President @TokayevKZ outlined key economic priorities and announced “People’s Construction” – a nationwide initiative to modernise infrastructure, create jobs and improve living standards. #Kazakhstan https://t.co/lGLLsyRwxQ

— Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to United Nations (@KazakhstanUN) October 29, 2026

Tourism growth raises the importance of delivery

The infrastructure announcements come as Kazakhstan expands its visitor economy. As Travel Tomorrow previously reported, the country recorded 15.7 million foreign visits in 2025, while tourism investment exceeded 1.3 trillion tenge, approximately €2.4 billion.

Accommodation capacity also increased, reaching 4,482 establishments offering more than 232,000 beds. Those figures provide context for the transport programme: additional accommodation and destination investment need accessible airports, reliable roads and effective local services to support demand.

Kazakhstan’s tourism development plans already encompass ecotourism, gastronomy, equestrian routes, self-drive holidays and business events. Improvements to regional infrastructure could support these segments, although the address did not set out a separate tourism funding allocation within the nationwide construction programme.

Connecting Kazakhstan with European transport networks

Rail freight and international logistics were another major focus. Tokayev said the Bakhty–Ayagoz railway would become operational in 2027, adding 20 million tonnes of freight capacity on routes towards China.

“Kazakhstan must seize this historic opportunity to become a leading logistics centre in Eurasia in practice, not merely in name,” Tokayev said. He also called for stronger domestic logistics operators and freight consolidation and distribution centres.

He highlighted the Aral–Caspian transport corridor, where construction began in August, and called for the digitalisation of international transport routes. The emphasis was on making Kazakhstan a more effective organiser of freight flows, supported by logistics centres, trading hubs and better connections across its territory.

These plans connect with discussions during the Belgian royal state visit to Kazakhstan from 12 to 14 October. Transport cooperation featured alongside tourism, cultural exchanges and university partnerships during the visit by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde.

Kazakhstan and Belgium share a strong friendship founded on trust and mutual respect. It was a big honor and privilege to welcome King Philippe and Queen Mathilde @MonarchieBe to Astana. Our productive talks reaffirmed shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and opened new avenues for cooperation. As Their Majesties continue their visit in Almaty, I hope they will enjoy the city’s vibrant spirit and discover its rich cultural heritage. May the partnership between Kazakhstan and Belgium continue to thrive!

— Qasym-Jomart Toqayev (@TokayevKZ) October 14, 2026

The talks highlighted the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, commonly known as the Middle Corridor, and opportunities to connect it more closely with European ports, railways and logistics hubs. Cooperation between Antwerp-Bruges and Kazakhstan’s Caspian ports of Aktau and Kuryk was among the areas discussed.

These are principally freight initiatives. Their relevance to the wider travel economy lies in the commercial relationships, infrastructure investment and professional exchanges they can help sustain.

Investment conditions and energy supply

Beyond transport, Tokayev called for more coordinated support for investors, stronger legal safeguards and improved access to long-term business finance. He outlined plans for an Investment Court in Alatau based on the English common law model and proposed discussing a three-year moratorium on inspections of micro and small businesses from January 2027.

Such measures could be relevant to hospitality investors and smaller tourism businesses, although their practical effects will depend on the legislation and implementation that follow. Tokayev also acknowledged persistent inflation and urged targeted changes to tax legislation to address difficulties experienced by businesses.

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Energy reliability formed another part of the programme, with a goal of achieving a sustained electricity surplus by 2029 through additional generation and upgraded infrastructure. For accommodation providers and other visitor services, dependable electricity is a basic operating requirement as well as a consideration when planning new investment.

The address places infrastructure at the centre of Kazakhstan’s next phase of development. For its growing tourism sector, the practical test will be whether the announced projects translate into easier journeys, reliable services and better access to destinations across the country.

L’article Kazakhstan’s Tokayev puts airports and transport at the centre of infrastructure push est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The four-week campaign brings images of China to the airport’s departure areas. It aims to encourage European travellers to consider China for their next journey, with eligible ordinary passport holders able to visit for up to 30 days without applying for a visa.

Ambassador Cai Run, Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union, led the inauguration, with participants including Eduardo Santander, CEO of the European Travel Commission; Ondřej Dostál, Member of the European Parliament; Piet Steel, Chairman of the Europe-Asia Center; and Li Yan, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in Belgium.

Making China more accessible to European visitors

The campaign puts visa facilitation at the centre of efforts to encourage travel and strengthen connections between China and Europe. For eligible visitors, the exemption removes both the visa application process and the associated visa fee, making it easier to plan a holiday, business visit or trip to see family and friends.

“Through this campaign, we hope to encourage more European travellers to discover China and experience its cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and hospitality. Easier travel creates more opportunities for people to meet, deepen mutual understanding and strengthen friendship between China and Europe” said Ambassador Cai Run, Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union.

China began introducing its current unilateral visa-free initiative in December 2023, initially offering stays of up to 15 days to citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. The scheme subsequently expanded to additional countries, including Belgium in March 2024, and the permitted stay increased to 30 days in November 2024.

The policy formed part of China’s reopening to international travel following the pandemic. Alongside easier entry, authorities have introduced measures to improve the visitor experience, including more accessible payment options for international travellers.


Speaking at the inauguration, Eduardo Santander said he hoped China’s visa-free policy would encourage more Europeans to visit the country. A regular visitor himself, he highlighted the convenience of the arrangements and expressed hope that Europe would eventually be able to reciprocate by facilitating travel for Chinese visitors.

Which 25 EU countries benefit?

Under the current arrangements, citizens holding valid ordinary passports from the following EU member states can visit mainland China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

This covers 25 of the EU’s 27 member states, with Czechia and Lithuania outside this particular scheme. The exemption for these 25 countries currently runs until 31 December 2026.

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The permitted purposes include tourism, business, visits to family or friends, exchanges and transit. Eligible travellers do not need to submit a visa application or make an advance declaration to a Chinese embassy or consulate, although admission remains subject to border checks.

Travellers must hold an ordinary passport valid for their intended stay. Chinese authorities recommend carrying supporting documents such as accommodation reservations, flight tickets or invitation letters to demonstrate the purpose of the visit.

The exemption does not cover employment, formal study or journalistic assignments, for which the appropriate visa is required. Travellers planning to stay longer than 30 days must also apply for a suitable visa before departure.

Direct flights strengthen the travel offer

The airport campaign comes as Brussels’ connections with China have expanded, giving travellers more options for direct journeys. Cathay Pacific resumed flights between Brussels and Hong Kong in August 2025, while Hainan Airlines added Chongqing to the airport’s network later that year.

Air China further expanded the offer in March 2026 with direct services to Beijing and Chengdu. The additional routes provide access to different regions and onward connections, complementing the reduction in entry formalities.

“We need even more air connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities,” Santander said, calling for stronger links between regional destinations in China and Europe. He highlighted his own visits to Harbin and Urumqi as examples of the opportunities to introduce European travellers to places beyond China’s best-known destinations.

For the tourism sector, combining more direct flights with simpler entry procedures can help turn interest in a destination into bookings. Santander also stressed that tourism’s value should be measured through its benefits for local communities, rather than solely through arrivals, overnight stays or expenditure.

Building on cultural and people-to-people exchanges

The launch follows the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union in 2025, which provided a platform for cultural activities and exchanges involving young people, musicians and sports enthusiasts.

Recent initiatives in Brussels have included an exhibition showcasing Zhejiang’s culture and tourism offer, with live demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship, and the China-EU Table Tennis Friendship Tournament. Held in September 2026, the tournament brought Chinese and European players together in mixed teams, placing cooperation at the centre of the competition.

Santander described tourism as a catalyst for peace, understanding, economic development and poverty alleviation, emphasising the importance of people-to-people dialogue amid geopolitical tensions. He noted that the European Travel Commission has promoted Europe in China through its China chapter since 2011.

A proposal for another EU–China Tourism Year in 2028

Looking ahead, Santander proposed another EU–China Tourism Year in 2028, which would mark both the European Travel Commission’s 80th anniversary and a decade since the 2018 EU–China Tourism Year. He said he intended to raise the idea during a visit to Beijing early next year.

“I think our relationship matters and we have to explain that to our citizens, not only to our political elite or our industrial elite, but rather to our people,” Santander said.

The Brussels Airport campaign extends that focus on exchanges to a wider travelling audience, encouraging eligible visitors to experience China first-hand and build connections through travel.

L’article China inaugurates Brussels Airport campaign promoting visa-free travel for 25 EU countries est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The 37th edition of the fair will take place from 3 to 7 March 2027 at FIL, in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações. Macao will also feature as the Guest Creative City of Gastronomy, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office, described the invitation as “an honour and recognition of our potential”, according to the announcement, translated from Portuguese. She said the participation comes as Macao focuses on broadening its tourism offer and expanding international visitor markets.

The programme will extend beyond the exhibition halls. “We will make full use of the opportunity offered by BTL”, Senna Fernandes said, outlining plans for activities both inside and outside the fair. Cooperation with tour operators will focus on developing itineraries connecting Macao, other parts of China, Portugal and Europe.

For Portuguese and European travel businesses, the event will provide opportunities to explore Macao’s cultural heritage, gastronomy, integrated resorts and events, while building commercial partnerships. BTL coordinator Dália Palma highlighted the destination’s combination of Portuguese heritage and Chinese culture, presenting the partnership as a means of strengthening historical connections and generating business.

The announcement follows a strong recovery in visitor numbers. As Travel Tomorrow previously reported, preliminary Public Security Police figures recorded 40.06 million visitor arrivals in 2025, up 14.7% year on year and 1.7% above the pre-pandemic benchmark of 2019.

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Those figures also underline the importance of diversifying source markets. Mainland China accounted for 72.4% of arrivals, followed by Hong Kong at 18.2%, while foreign nationals represented 6.9% and visitors from Taiwan 2.5%. The Lisbon showcase offers a platform to strengthen Macao’s visibility among European travellers and the businesses that organise their trips.

The approach builds on priorities outlined ahead of the Macao International Travel Expo in April 2026, when international partnerships and multi-destination travel within the Greater Bay Area featured prominently.

Gastronomy will provide a further focus in Lisbon. Recognised by UNESCO since 2017, Macao is preparing anniversary celebrations that highlight its culinary heritage alongside innovation and international exchange. Its BTL participation will bring that identity to Portuguese audiences, with Senna Fernandes confirming plans to showcase local specialities as part of the celebrations.

L’article Macao named international guest destination at Lisbon’s BTL 2027 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Presented at SpaceX’s Rocket Test and Development Center in McGregor, Texas, on 15 October, the two-seater performed airborne flips and a claimed 0–60 mph acceleration run of 0.81 seconds. Elon Musk said production was now targeted for 2028, extending the wait for a car first unveiled in 2017 with deliveries initially promised for 2020.

For travellers, the distinction is between an airborne demonstration and a vehicle capable of making practical journeys through the sky. The launch showcased short aerial manoeuvres, rather than a passenger flight between destinations.

SpaceX technology takes the Roadster airborne

During the demonstration, the Roadster climbed a curved ramp, travelled upside down and launched into the air before flipping and landing. Another manoeuvre sent it over a line-up of Tesla vehicles.

Tesla’s engineering team said the car combines an underside fan system, which increases grip by creating suction, with compressed-air thrusters developed using SpaceX technology. Separate nozzles control the vehicle’s orientation in the air.

Real life, baby https://t.co/3QEqn18wig

— Tesla (@Tesla) October 16, 2026

There was no human driver aboard for the airborne stunt. Musk said the demonstration used autonomous control to avoid putting anyone inside at risk.

The company’s Roadster page states that its Thrust features are an optional upgrade and that the Rocket trim will not be available in every region.

What could it mean for travel?

The unveiling adds another interpretation to the term “flying car”, which already covers markedly different approaches to transport.

Slovakia’s AirCar received airworthiness certification in 2022 after completing more than 70 hours of flight testing. Its development included a 35-minute flight between Nitra and Bratislava, demonstrating the kind of journey that could connect road travel with regional aviation.

Tesla’s presentation focused instead on extreme performance and brief airborne stunts. It offered no passenger service, intercity flight schedule or evidence of sustained flight between destinations.

Holy smokes https://t.co/rTnRobllwc

— Tesla (@Tesla) October 16, 2026

For now, its relevance to tourism lies more in the potential appeal of an unusual driving experience than in replacing airport transfers or regional flights. Whether such experiences become commercially available will depend on production, operating restrictions and the permissions granted in individual markets.

European availability remains uncertain

Musk acknowledged that the Roadster might not be legal in every jurisdiction. Tesla’s UK website also specifies left-hand drive only, a consideration for prospective British buyers.

The launch leaves questions about where owners could use its airborne capabilities and under what conditions. A demonstration at a controlled test site does not establish permission to perform the same manoeuvres on public roads.

Tesla’s wider transport ambitions include its Cybercab and Robovan concepts, presented in 2024 as part of its push towards autonomous mobility. Musk positioned the Roadster as an exception, saying it would eventually be the company’s only manually driven model.

The final purchase price has not been announced. With production targeted for 2028, the Roadster remains a prospective product whose everyday travel applications have yet to be demonstrated.

L’article Tesla unveils ‘flying’ Roadster: What could it mean for the future of travel? est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The Long-Haul Travel Barometer 3/2026 examines travel intentions for September to December across seven markets: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and the United States.

Half of respondents intend to take an overseas trip during the period, down from 55% last year. Interest in visiting Europe has declined alongside this, from 38% to 34%, leaving the continent with roughly two-thirds of overall long-haul travel intentions.

Fewer prospective visitors, but firmer plans

Across the surveyed markets, 17% of all respondents have already booked flights to Europe, unchanged from last autumn.

However, because fewer respondents are considering a European trip, confirmed bookings now represent 52% of prospective visitors, compared with 42% a year earlier. The increase therefore reflects a greater commitment among those planning to travel, rather than growth in the overall share of respondents with bookings.

China remains the most interested market, with 54% planning a European trip. Some 37% of Chinese respondents have already booked tickets, up from 33% last year.

Brazil follows with travel intentions at 45%. South Korea recorded an increase from 33% to 36%, although ETC notes that the change is not statistically significant.

The findings follow earlier evidence of European tourist arrivals rising despite geopolitical tensions, while travellers place greater emphasis on affordability and value.

Cost remains the biggest obstacle

High travel costs remain the leading deterrent, cited by 44% of respondents who are not planning a long-haul trip, five percentage points fewer than last year.

Among those travelling overseas but choosing destinations outside Europe, 30% identify cost as a barrier to visiting the continent, down 12 percentage points. A preference for another region and limited holiday time also influence decisions.

Most prospective visitors plan stays of one to two weeks, with the largest group budgeting €100 to €200 per person per day.

Two-thirds plan to explore several countries

Some 66% of prospective visitors intend to combine two or more European countries, with the average itinerary covering 2.7 countries.

Rail features prominently in these plans: 40% expect to use rail passes and 39% point-to-point tickets. Flights remain popular, with 45% considering low-cost airlines and 44% full-service carriers. Europe’s expanding autumn and winter flight connections provide further options for reaching and exploring the continent.

First-time visitors account for 53% of prospective arrivals, rising to 61% among Chinese travellers and 57% among Americans.

ETC President Miguel Sanz said connectivity and shared travel systems help reinforce Europe’s appeal as a collective destination, making cooperation between countries central to its international promotion.

The survey uses a new data collection panel. ETC says it has reviewed long-term trends across all markets and found them consistent with previous editions.

L’article Europe’s long-haul bookings hold steady despite weaker autumn travel intentions est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The results brought recognition for destinations, airlines, hotels and tourism businesses across the continent, with Portugal securing awards spanning beach holidays, city tourism, adventure travel and visitor attractions.

Portugal wins across beach, city and adventure tourism

The Algarve won Europe’s Leading Beach Destination, while Lisbon took Europe’s Leading City Destination. The Azores received Europe’s Leading Regional Adventure Tourism Destination, and Dark Sky Alqueva was named Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction.

The Algarve’s recognition follows other international accolades for its coastline, with Praia da Falésia featuring among Europe’s top beaches in TripAdvisor’s 2025 rankings.

Meanwhile, Alqueva’s award highlights a different side of Portugal’s tourism offering, with stargazing and nighttime experiences ranging from astrophotography workshops to canoeing after dark.

In its response to the results, Visit Portugal said the national destination award reflected a strategy focused on the quality, diversity and innovation of Portugal’s tourism offering. It described its own award as recognition of its work promoting the country internationally.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognise businesses and destinations across the global travel industry, with voting involving tourism professionals and travellers worldwide.

Montenegro takes the spotlight as first-time host

Host country Montenegro secured two prominent destination titles. Kotor won Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination, while Montenegro was named Europe’s Leading Nature Destination.

The ceremony highlighted a country whose attractions extend from Kotor’s historic old town and Adriatic coastline to the mountains and Tara River Canyon in Durmitor National Park.

Montenegrin hospitality businesses were recognised in national categories, too. Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort won Montenegro’s Leading Resort, while Merit Starlit Hotel & Residence & Casino received Montenegro’s Leading Hotel. Villa Geba Boutique Hotel took the boutique hotel title.

Graham Cooke, founder of the World Travel Awards, congratulated the winners and thanked the resort and local partners for hosting the gathering. Hans Prins, the resort’s general manager, described the recognition for Kotor and Montenegro as a source of pride for both the destination and his team.

Airlines, city breaks and business events recognised

Elsewhere, Turkish Airlines was named Europe’s Leading Airline, and Athens won Europe’s Leading City Break Destination. Disneyland Paris received Europe’s Leading Theme Park Resort, while Dubrovnik took Europe’s Leading Seaside Metropolitan Destination.

Business tourism featured among the awards, with Madrid winning Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination and The Convention Centre Dublin receiving the corresponding venue award. Cannes was recognised as Europe’s Leading Festival & Event Destination.

The Montenegro gathering was the final regional ceremony of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2026, following events in Zanzibar, Dubai, the Maldives and Jamaica. The series will conclude with the Grand Final in Tanzania.

The full list of European winners is available on the World Travel Awards website.

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The visit included high-level talks with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, a business council, a rectors’ forum and cultural engagements in Astana and Almaty. It was Philippe’s first visit to Kazakhstan as King and Belgium’s first state visit to Central Asia. He had previously travelled to the country as Crown Prince in 2002, 2009 and 2010.

While critical minerals, energy and artificial intelligence featured prominently in the discussions, the programme also highlighted opportunities to encourage travel, connect cultural institutions and expand exchanges between students, researchers and businesses.

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Tourism receives royal backing

Tourism featured explicitly in Philippe’s address to the fourth Kazakh-Belgian Business Council on 13 October. Speaking to business representatives from both countries, the King identified the sector as an area with considerable potential for closer cooperation.

“Kazakhstan offers extraordinary landscapes and a rich cultural heritage,” he said, expressing confidence that more Belgians would discover the country in the coming years. His remarks placed tourism alongside the industrial and infrastructure partnerships discussed during the visit.

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The endorsement came as Kazakhstan continues to expand its visitor economy. As Travel Tomorrow previously reported, the country recorded 15.7 million foreign visits in 2025, including 11.1 million classified as tourism visits, while investment in the sector reached approximately €2.4 billion.

Accommodation capacity also increased, with 179 additional facilities and more than 7,000 beds, bringing the national total to 4,482 establishments offering over 232,000 beds.

The royal itinerary brought attention to two complementary destinations. Astana combines contemporary architecture with national museums and institutions, while Almaty offers cultural attractions and access to the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Travel Tomorrow has previously explored the two cities’ growing tourism appeal, including opportunities to combine a stay in Almaty with skiing, hiking and mountain excursions.

Museums bring cultural diplomacy into focus

Cultural cooperation provided some of the visit’s most visible encounters. On 13 October, Tokayev accompanied Philippe and Mathilde to the National Museum of Kazakhstan in Astana, where works by Belgian artist James Ensor were displayed alongside the institution’s presentation of Kazakhstan’s heritage.

The exhibition brought a major figure in Belgian art into a Kazakh cultural setting, giving the royal programme a tangible expression of exchange between the two countries.

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The visit ended at the Almaty Museum of Arts, where the royal couple explored modern and contemporary works by Kazakh and international artists. A performance presented through cooperation with KANAL-Centre Pompidou in Brussels illustrated the links developing between cultural institutions in the two cities.

These exchanges also broaden the country’s international tourism profile. Alongside landscapes and historic traditions, contemporary museums offer another reason to visit and opportunities to encounter Kazakhstan through its artists. Partnerships with European institutions can sustain that dialogue through exhibitions, performances and professional collaboration beyond the official visit.

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Linking the Middle Corridor with European transport networks

Transport and logistics were central to the talks, particularly the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, commonly known as the Middle Corridor.

Tokayev and Philippe highlighted the route’s growing role in connecting Asia and Europe in their joint statement. At the Business Council, the King called for closer integration with European ports, railways and logistics hubs, emphasising Belgium’s expertise through the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

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Tokayev proposed closer practical cooperation between Antwerp-Bruges and Kazakhstan’s Caspian ports of Aktau and Kuryk. Kazakhstan is investing in railways, roads, seaports and terminals along the corridor, while Belgian experience in port management and multimodal logistics could support its development.

The discussions centred on freight connectivity and resilient supply chains. They reflected a wider effort to connect Kazakhstan’s infrastructure with established European transport networks as trade routes evolve.

For both countries, the partnership builds on their geographical positions: Belgium as an entry point to European markets and Kazakhstan as a transit country connecting different parts of Eurasia.

University exchanges build longer-term connections

Academic cooperation added another dimension to the visit. The Kazakhstan-Belgium Rectors’ Forum brought together leaders from 29 universities and research organisations at Astana’s Alem.ai International Centre.

More than 20 agreements and memorandums were signed, covering academic mobility, joint programmes and research. Participating Belgian institutions included Ghent University, KU Leuven and the University of Mons.

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Artificial intelligence featured prominently, with discussions addressing its use in teaching, research and university management. Language education, translation and multilingual academic communication were also on the agenda, alongside opportunities for research internships and joint qualifications.

The joint statement endorsed academic mobility and partnerships between universities and research centres. Such initiatives create opportunities for repeated travel and sustained professional contact, extending the relationship beyond government and business delegations.

Travel facilitation remains a separate priority

Closer academic and professional links also underline the importance of travel procedures. Travel Tomorrow reported in March that Kazakhstan and the EU were approaching the final phase of negotiations on visa facilitation, alongside discussions on readmission.

A future agreement could simplify procedures for Kazakh citizens travelling to Europe, supporting tourism, business visits and educational exchanges.

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During the royal visit, the two countries welcomed the entry into force of a protocol concerning visa exemptions for holders of service passports travelling between Kazakhstan and the Benelux countries. This is a separate diplomatic arrangement and does not introduce a general visa exemption for ordinary travellers.

Kazakhstan’s flag flied over Brussels’ Grand-Place

While the royal couple were in Kazakhstan, a public celebration brought Kazakh culture into the centre of Brussels.

On 12 October, Kazakhstan’s national flag was raised at Brussels City Hall on the Grand-Place for the first time, marking both the state visit and the country’s 35^th anniversary of independence.

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Supported by the City of Brussels and Belgium’s foreign ministry, the ceremony brought together embassy representatives, Kazakh students, community members and visitors. Students in traditional dress performed music and a festive flash mob, while guests sampled Kazakh dishes.

At one of Belgium’s best-known visitor landmarks, the celebration brought the diplomatic occasion into public view. Alongside museum partnerships and university exchanges, it gave residents and tourists an opportunity to encounter Kazakhstan through its culture and the people sharing it.

The outcomes of the state visit will be presented on Friday, 23 October, at the Press Club Brussels Europe.

L’article Belgian royal visit strengthens tourism, cultural and transport ties with Kazakhstan est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.