Archives des Highlight - Travel Tomorrow https://traveltomorrow.com/tag/highlight/ Travel Tomorrow is a global media outlet reporting on the travel and tourism industry. Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:30:22 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 Where can British travellers holiday in Europe without EES in 2026? https://traveltomorrow.com/where-can-british-travellers-holiday-in-europe-without-ees-in-2026/ Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:06:39 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181691 With the European Union’s new border security Entry / Exit System, or EES, causing delays and disruption at some of the bloc’s travel hubs this summer, […]

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]]> With the European Union’s new border security Entry / Exit System, or EES, causing delays and disruption at some of the bloc’s travel hubs this summer, third-country holidaymakers affected by the new rules, such as Brits, may be seeking to avoid the chaos by choosing a destination where EES is not a barrier. If European travel is the priority, then that search could focus on countries that are in the union, or candidates to be, but remain outside the Schengen zone, where EES rules are not in force. This round-up includes other short-haul destinations just beyond the region too.

Albania

Lonely Planet says that Albania’s scenery, castles, culture, and beaches “rival any in the Mediterranean and continue to enchant.” Whether travellers are looking for hiking, turquoise waters, or city nightlife, this is a booming destination that is a candidate to join the EU but still operates its own border system.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

What Bosnia and Herzegovina lacks in beaches, it makes up for in natural beauty and outdoor pursuits, boasting forested cascades like Kravica Waterfalls, and promising white water rafting in the Una National Park. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the European Union or the Schengen Area, but anyone considering a pan-Balkan trip should be aware that EES is active at the territory’s neighbouring EU borders—such as Croatia’s—requiring third-country travellers (including citizens of Bosnia) to register in the EES when crossing.

Cyprus

Cyprus is in the EU and cooperates with parts of the Schengen Zone rules, but is not fully integrated, meaning arrivals escape the drudgery of completing EES steps. With consumer demand hit earlier this year by travel alerts prompted by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, it’s possible some bargain Mediterranean island breaks could be on offer.

Ireland

Ireland, too, is an EU country but opted out of Schengen zone rules in order to remain part of the UK-Ireland Common Travel Area, meaning EES is not in operation at its borders. Long-known for its warm welcome, stunning scenery, and coastal scapes, Ireland also offers English speakers the comfort of a shared language while away from home.

Kosovo

Europe’s baby, Kosovo, is an EU candidate, and EES is not yet in place. Despite being such a new nation, its history, Ottoman architecture, location at the crossroads of cultures, and legendary hospitality make it a top tip for an accessible yet off-the-beaten-path destination.

Moldova

Moldova is not in the EU or Schengen, but EES is operational when crossing into Moldova from Romania (the other borders are with Ukraine). One of Europe’s least visited countries, crowding and anti-visitor sentiment are unlikely to feel like issues here, and wine tourism is on the rise.

Montenegro

As an EU candidate, Montenegro does not currently operate the EES. Despite its diminutive size, this nation is increasingly reputed for its year-round offer, with hiking in scenic locations like Durmitor National Park best for spring and autumn, glamorous Adriatic beaches for summer, and skiing for winter.

North Macedonia

Sticking with the Balkans, North Macedonia is another nation not in the EU or the Schengen Area, meaning EES does not operate at its domestic borders. Condé Nast Traveller gushes about its “deep valleys,” “soaring peaks,” “rushing rivers” and “placid lakes”, noting that the country’s physical beauty is only surpassed by the “warmth of its people.” High praise, and as a nation less accustomed to tourism than some of its neighbours, it oozes the authenticity today’s travellers crave.

Serbia

Serbian capital Belgrade boasts not one but two rivers and an enviable nightlife vibe. Hailed by travel expert Simon Calder for its affordability, vibrant street life, and character, Serbia also proposes mountain peaks and national parks to get away from it all. And all that can be done while avoiding the rigours of EES because Serbia remains an EU candidate country for now.

Türkiye

Türkiye is an affordable destination straddling Europe and Asia, with over 1,600 km of Mediterranean coastline and no EES queue. Turquoise seas, island-hopping cruises, traditional markets, and a massive foodie culture are just some of the temptations on offer.

United Kingdom

The UK chose to leave the EU in 2016’s Brexit referendum, meaning it became a “third country”. It has always operated its own border system, and still does, with the recent introduction of the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for non-visa nationals. From the cultural hubs like Edinburgh in Scotland, the poetic Lake District, and Yorkshire Dales and Moors in the north, to the fashionable buzz of the capital, and the southern “Sunshine Coast” –there’s something for everyone, and it’s EES-free.

Beyond Europe

Beyond the European region, and so without EES of course, short-to-mid-haul destinations such as Azerbaijan combine breathtaking landscapes, gastronomy, history, and modernity, while, after a difficult year reputationally, African archipelago Cabo Verde has enjoyed a new spotlight thanks to its participation in the 2026 World Cup.

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]]> Relais & Châteaux adds 10 new properties across eight countries https://traveltomorrow.com/relais-chateaux-adds-10-new-properties-across-eight-countries/ Wed, 29 Jul 2026 13:11:56 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181653 Relais & Châteaux has welcomed 10 new properties across eight countries, expanding its international collection of independently operated hotels and restaurants. The latest additions are located […]

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]]> Relais & Châteaux has welcomed 10 new properties across eight countries, expanding its international collection of independently operated hotels and restaurants.

The latest additions are located in France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Japan, Mexico and the United States, with seven of the 10 situated in Europe.

According to the association, despite their individual identities, the new members share its approach to hospitality, with an emphasis on art de vivre, fine dining and cultural diversity.

Laurent Gardinier, President of Relais & Châteaux, said: “Our Association is firmly committed to a sustainable path so as to contribute, through cuisine and hospitality, to building a more humane and united world, in harmony with living things.

“It is an honor for me to welcome these ten new members to Relais & Châteaux, properties that share not only our values, but our passion for goodness and beauty.”

Wilderness Reserve, United Kingdom

Set across around 6,000 acres in Sibton, Suffolk, Wilderness Reserve comprises 29 lodgings inspired by traditional English architecture, ranging from thatched cottages to an 18th-century manor house with eight bedrooms.

The estate is set amid the landscapes that inspired English painter John Constable and can be explored on foot or by bike. Its facilities include a spa and heated outdoor pool, while selected cottages feature hot tubs and private pools.

Two restaurants operate on the estate. The Dining Room offers a contemporary interpretation of English cuisine with Mediterranean influences, while Fire Feast centres on open-air, wood-fired cooking.

Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina, Portugal

Located in Lisbon’s historic centre, Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina occupies an 18th-century palace overlooking the Tagus River.

The property combines historic Portuguese architecture with contemporary interiors and features a rooftop swimming pool with views across the capital.

Megève Bois, France

Located in the French Alps, Megève Bois combines the character of an Alpine chalet with contemporary hospitality.

Its location in Megève provides access to one of France’s best-known mountain destinations, offering skiing during the winter season as well as hiking and other outdoor activities during the warmer months.

La Maison des Cimes, France

France’s second new member is La Maison des Cimes in Malbuisson, close to the Swiss border.

Located in the Jura Mountains, the property offers access to a region characterised by lakes, forests and mountain landscapes, providing an alternative to France’s larger Alpine resorts.

Masseria AuraTerrae, Italy

Masseria AuraTerrae is located near Polignano a Mare in Puglia, southern Italy.

The property draws on the region’s traditional masseria architecture and rural landscape, combining accommodation and gastronomy with a strong connection to its Mediterranean surroundings.

Relais Villa Corallo, Italy

Italy’s second addition is Relais Villa Corallo in Sant’Omero, in the Abruzzo region.

The property combines historic architecture, countryside surroundings and Italian gastronomy, reflecting Relais & Châteaux’s emphasis on establishments with a strong connection to their local cultural and culinary heritage.

Villa Florhof, Switzerland

Villa Florhof brings another Relais & Châteaux address to Zurich. The historic property offers an intimate alternative to the Swiss city’s larger luxury hotels.

Its central location provides access to Zurich’s cultural attractions while retaining the character of an independent boutique property.

Hiiragiya, Japan

In Kyoto, Hiiragiya is a historic Japanese ryokan founded in 1818 and operated by the same family for generations.

The property has 23 rooms and combines traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts, making it one of the most historic establishments among the association’s latest additions.

Quintonil, Mexico

Quintonil in Mexico City is the standalone restaurant among the 10 new members.

Led by chef Jorge Vallejo, the restaurant focuses on contemporary Mexican cuisine and local ingredients, adding another major gastronomic address to the association’s international restaurant portfolio.

The Nell New York, United States

The Nell New York represents the United States among the latest additions. Located at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, the property is scheduled to open in autumn 2027.

The 134-room hotel will bring a new Relais & Châteaux address to the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Relais & Châteaux around the world

Founded in France in 1954, Relais & Châteaux brings together 580 independently operated hotels and restaurants in 65 countries. 

Led by hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs, the association places particular emphasis on the cultural, gastronomic and environmental heritage of its destinations, as well as collaboration with local artisans. Many of its properties are family-run, with hospitality traditions and savoir-faire passed from one generation to the next. 

Relais & Châteaux describes its approach as one centred on art de vivre, gastronomy and hospitality, while seeking to preserve the distinctive character and heritage of the destinations in which its members operate. 

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]]> New Lisbon airport faces 11-year wait as costs reach up to €8.9 billion https://traveltomorrow.com/new-lisbon-airport-faces-11-year-wait-as-costs-reach-up-to-e8-9-billion/ Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:15:28 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181656 Portugal’s long-awaited new Lisbon airport could cost up to €8.9 billion and may not open until 2037, as the country invests more than €400 million in […]

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]]> Portugal’s long-awaited new Lisbon airport could cost up to €8.9 billion and may not open until 2037, as the country invests more than €400 million in its existing airport network to cope with continued growth in tourism and air travel.

The latest technical report from ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal estimates that the Luís de Camões Airport will require investment of between €7.9 billion and €8.9 billion, at 2024 prices. The range updates an earlier preliminary estimate of around €8.5 billion presented in 2025. 

Under ANA’s baseline timetable, agreements for the new airport are expected to be signed in April 2029, with construction beginning around mid-2030 and concluding towards the end of 2036. Operations would then start in 2037, meaning travellers could still be waiting another 11 years before using the new gateway.

The Portuguese government, however, wants to accelerate the project. Infrastructure and Housing Minister Miguel Pinto Luz has indicated an ambition to bring the opening forward to 2035, with an accelerated construction schedule potentially running from 2029 to 2034.

The project will be built at Campo de Tiro de Alcochete, on the south bank of the Tagus, more than 50 kilometres from central Lisbon, and is intended eventually to replace the existing Humberto Delgado Airport.

Costs could rise further

ANA, which is owned by French infrastructure group Vinci, has warned that the final bill could rise beyond the current estimates as geopolitical uncertainty, pressure on global supply chains and market volatility push construction costs higher.

At its initial stage, Luís de Camões Airport is expected to handle around 56 million passengers annually, with capacity eventually increasing to 85 million. Plans include two runways, 120 aircraft parking positions, 64 boarding gates and 76 passenger boarding bridges.

Ground transport will be a crucial part of the project due to the airport’s distance from Lisbon.

Plans include a high-speed rail connection with a journey time of approximately 26 minutes and services every two hours. A conventional rail connection from Entrecampos is expected to run every 15 minutes, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.

Infraestruturas de Portugal has also proposed a direct shuttle between Lisbon’s Oriente station and the airport, with an estimated journey time of 20 minutes and departures every 30 minutes. ANA has called for a higher frequency and stressed the importance of ensuring high-quality and affordable public transport to the new airport.

Road access is also planned, including a new 17-kilometre connection to the A33 motorway and links to several national and municipal roads.

Existing airports face growing demand

The long wait for Luís de Camões Airport means Portugal is simultaneously investing in its existing aviation infrastructure.

More than €400 million is already being invested across the national airport network, according to the government’s recently presented airport strategy. The programme is intended to increase capacity, improve passenger experience and prepare the country’s infrastructure for further growth in tourism, the economy and mobility. 

The pressure comes as Portugal continues to attract growing numbers of visitors. In 2025, tourist accommodation establishments recorded 32.5 million guests and 82.1 million overnight stays, increases of 3% and 2.2% respectively. International visitors accounted for 57 million overnight stays. 

Growth has continued into 2026. Between January and May, Portugal welcomed around 12 million guests, generating 28.7 million overnight stays. In May alone, the country recorded 3.3 million guests, up 3.9% year-on-year, and eight million overnight stays, up 2.8%. 

The government’s immediate response is therefore to expand and modernise airports serving the country’s main tourism destinations while the new Lisbon hub is developed.

Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which currently handles around 17 million passengers per year, is undergoing runway renovation, terminal modernisation and expansion, as well as the construction of a new Airport Operations Control Centre. The longer-term ambition is to prepare Porto to accommodate as many as 30 million passengers annually.

Faro Airport, the principal gateway to the Algarve, handled around 10 million passengers in 2025. Work includes modernisation and expansion of airport infrastructure, operational areas and the terminal, with the aim of providing additional capacity as tourism demand grows.

The same approach is being taken on Portugal’s islands. Madeira Airport handled more than five million passengers in 2025, almost double the approximately 2.6 million recorded a decade earlier. Its terminal and passenger facilities are now being renovated and modernised.

In the Azores, João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada handled close to three million passengers in 2025, compared with around one million in 2015. Its terminal is being renovated and modernised as part of efforts to improve capacity and connectivity for the archipelago.

Pinto Luz has presented the investments as part of a wider airport masterplan designed to bridge the period before Luís de Camões Airport becomes operational and ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with Portugal’s tourism and economic growth. The government says more than €400 million is already being deployed across airports including Porto, Faro, Lisbon and the Azores. 

With the new Lisbon airport still potentially more than a decade away, those upgrades will play an increasingly important role in accommodating passenger growth and maintaining Portugal’s connectivity in the years leading up to the opening of Luís de Camões Airport.

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]]> Expedia reveals the trending islands to visit in 2026 https://traveltomorrow.com/expedia-reveals-the-trending-islands-to-visit-in-2026/ Wed, 29 Jul 2026 09:30:26 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181647 Expedia has unveiled its Island Hot List, focusing on a refreshing selection of islands across the world gaining attention among travellers. Discover which islands to travel […]

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]]> Expedia has unveiled its Island Hot List, focusing on a refreshing selection of islands across the world gaining attention among travellers. Discover which islands to travel to next, from romantic St. Lucia to affordable Phu Quoc.

For the second year in a row, travel platform Expedia has put together a list of islands across the globe that are gaining in popularity. The 2026 Island Hot List is based on Expedia flight search data and offers a great amount of inspiration to those who are still looking for their next destination.

“Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away; they can also be one of the smartest holiday values, thanks to all-inclusive resorts and bundle savings on Expedia. The list was finalised until a destination generated so much buzz from football fans that we had to give it an award of its own,” said Melanie Fish, Head of Expedia Group Brands Public Relations.

The 10 trending islands to visit in 2026 according to Expedia:

1. St. Lucia: Best For Romantic Escapes

According to Expedia, travellers have been massively attracted to St. Lucia over the past year. The Caribbean island nation is less crowded than other neighbouring islands, while still offering secluded escapes, dramatic scenery, and “a gentle sense of adventure that elevates every stay”.

2. Porto Santo (Madeira, Portugal): Best For Wellness & Relaxation

Generally speaking, the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira has been a hit for quite a while. Its somewhat isolated yet easy-to-reach location makes it the ideal destination for those who are looking for a relaxed beach destination within Europe. Porto Santo’s golden sand beaches reliable warmth, and slower pace are perfect for switching off.

3. Praslin (Seychelles): Best For Nature Lovers

With its UNESCO World-Heritage landscapes, Praslin is a dreamy spot for nature lovers, offering rare wildlife and uncrowded beaches. Combining an outdoorsy holiday with a relaxing atmosphere and perfect surroundings has seldom been so easy.

4. Syros (Greece): Best For Cuisine & Charm

Greece has a lot to offer in terms of islands, yet according to Expedia, Syros is emerging in 2026 as a compelling alternative to some of the countries better-known islands. The local cuisine, neoclassical elegance, and authentic charm reportedly come together without compromising depth or character.

@reine.na The capital of the Cyclades is two hours away from Athens ⛴ #greekislands #cyclades #syros #greece #travel ♬ Città vuota – Mina

5. Lofoten Islands (Norway): Best for Arctic Adventures

While travellers often tend to associate island destinations with hot and exotic locations, the Lofoten Islands prove that even the most adventurous wanderers can get what they’re looking for. Lofoten combines dramatic peaks with crystal-clear fjords and Midnight Sun with Northern Lights.

@tworoamtheworld 🇳🇴Top 25 Must Visit Spots in Lofoten, Norway🇳🇴 • Lofoten is where wild nature meets Arctic magic 🌄❄ Towering peaks, turquoise beaches, and cozy fishing villages make it one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Here are 25 must-visit spots that capture the soul of Lofoten 🇳🇴✨ 1. Svolvaer 2. Henningsvaer (soccer field) 3. Batman Wall 4. Nusfjord 5. Flakstad 6. Rambergstranda 7. Volandstinden hike 8. Fredvang Bridges 9. Hamnoy 10. Sakrisoy 11. Reine 12. Reinebringen hike 13. Tindstinden hike (Sorvagen) 14. A i Lofoten 15. Delpen hike 16. Djevelporten hike 17. Rorvikstranda 18. Festvagtind hike 19. Hauklandstranda 20. Mannen hike 21. Uttakleiv Beach 22. Offersoykammen hike 23. Skagsanden beach 24. Kvalvika Beach 25. Ryten hike 📍Every corner of Lofoten feels like a dream. Nature, drama, and serenity all in one Arctic paradise. Which spot is on your bucket list? 💙 • • #lofoten #norwaynature #lofotenislands #lofotenhighlights #norway #norway🇳🇴 #hiking ♬ Riptide (feat. Ilan Kidron) – Sigala & Jaxomy

6. Palawan (Philippines): Best For Natural Wonders

Those who prefer to combine natural beauty with higher temperatures could head to Palawan instead. Here, dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and pristine ecosystems immers adventurous travellers in a world full of marvels.

7. Culebra (Puerto Rico): Best For Water Adventures

Although water naturally plays an important role on any island, this is especially the case for Culebra. The island’s wide number of activities focuses on water-based occupations, including snorkelling, diving, and tidal-pool exploring.

8. Sanibel Island (Florida, U.S.): Best For Family Escapes

Families in need of some well-deserved quality time have increasingly been turning to Sanibel Island in the U.S. Its effortless atmosphere is the ideal setting for a low-stress escape with the whole gang.

9. Phu Quoc (Vietnam): Best For Affordable Luxury

While Phu Quoc might not necessarily be a new discovery, the Vietnamese hotspot is rapidly becoming known as Southeast Asia’s luxury island hub. Its polished resorts offer strong value, which is not always easy to find in 2026.

10. Fiji: Best For Multi-generational Value

In need of a destination that offers a bit of everything, where all family members and friends can find something to do. According to Expedia, Fiji combines warm hospitality, rich culture, broad appeal, and the kind of variety that suits more than one generation.

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]]> Mallorca anti-tourism protest turns chaotic as riot police fire rubber bullets at crowds https://traveltomorrow.com/mallorca-anti-tourism-protest-turns-chaotic-as-riot-police-fire-rubber-bullets-at-crowds/ Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:30:29 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181570 Riot police fired rubber bullets and charged demonstrators with batons after one of Mallorca’s largest-ever anti-tourism protests descended into violence in Palma, leaving at least eight […]

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]]> Riot police fired rubber bullets and charged demonstrators with batons after one of Mallorca’s largest-ever anti-tourism protests descended into violence in Palma, leaving at least eight people injured and reigniting debate over the impact of mass tourism on the Spanish island. 

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets on Sunday in a demonstration organised under the slogan “Less Tourism, More Life” (“Menys Turisme, Més Vida”), calling for tighter controls on visitor numbers and urgent action to tackle soaring housing costs, environmental pressures and the increasing “touristification” of the island. Police estimated attendance at around 25,000 people, while organisers put the figure at as many as 70,000, making it one of the biggest anti-tourism protests Mallorca has seen in recent years. 

The demonstration began shortly after 7:00 p.m. in Palma’s Plaza de España, with thousands of protesters marching through La Rambla, Calle Unió and Paseo del Born. As the procession made its way through the city centre, many restaurants and cafes along the route removed their outdoor tables and chairs, leaving the streets almost entirely occupied by demonstrators. Dozens of tourists gathered on the pavements to watch the protest as it passed through the island’s capital.

The march passed peacefully through much of Palma before tensions emerged near Ses Voltes, where organisers had planned to read the protest manifesto. According to local reports, police restricted access to the area because of crowd-control concerns, preventing many demonstrators from entering. After the manifesto was read, part of the crowd attempted to continue marching towards Parc de la Mar, where they were met by a large deployment of Spain’s National Police. 

Witnesses said protesters chanted slogans including “I’d be ashamed to be a police officer” and “Out with the occupying forces” as officers blocked their route. The situation escalated when a small group of demonstrators threw objects, mainly plastic bottles, at police officers. Police responded with baton charges and fired around 20 rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.

Paramedics treated eight people at the scene, with two taken to hospital with minor injuries. One man suffered a bleeding head wound, while witnesses also reported that some tourists passing through the area became caught up in the clashes. 

The demonstration was organised by the platform Less Tourism, More Life, which argues that Mallorca has reached its limit after years of record visitor numbers. “With all limits broken and the island converted into a theme park for tourists, we are going to see our already collapsed services put to the service of visitors,” coordinators said. 

Protesters say mass tourism has fuelled a housing crisis, pushed up rental prices, strained public services and transformed neighbourhoods into tourism-focused areas at the expense of local residents. Banners carried during the march called for limits on tourist accommodation, restrictions on cruise ships and private jets, stronger protection for affordable housing and a transition towards a more sustainable economic model.

The unrest comes as Spain continues to experience growing protests against overtourism across several popular destinations, including Barcelona, Ibiza and the Canary Islands. Mallorca, one of Europe’s busiest holiday islands, welcomed more than 13 million visitors last year, with campaigners arguing that the current tourism model is no longer sustainable for residents or the environment.

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]]> Global aviation records busiest-ever day with 153,359 commercial flights https://traveltomorrow.com/global-aviation-records-busiest-ever-day-with-153359-commercial-flights/ Tue, 28 Jul 2026 08:45:10 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181565 On 23 July 2026, the commercial airline sector recorded its busiest-ever day in history. As Flightradar24 registered no less than 153,359 flights in 24 hours, 2026’s […]

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]]> On 23 July 2026, the commercial airline sector recorded its busiest-ever day in history. As Flightradar24 registered no less than 153,359 flights in 24 hours, 2026’s summer rush was at an absolute high.

Between 00:00 UTC and 23:59 UTC on 23 July 2026, flight tracking service Flightradar24 registered a whopping 153,359 commercial flights. That number was a record high which beat the previous record, set on 13 July 2023 with 137,225 commercial flights, by no less than 16,134 flights. The data can partly be explained by the Northern Hemisphere’s summer travel season, which is currently at its peak.

“The last week in July is often the busiest week for air travel, and this year is no exception. On Thursday we tracked 153,359 commercial flights: the most we’ve ever tracked,” Flightradar24 stated on X.

Moreover, when taking into account cargo, private, and military air traffic as well, the number rose even higher. When adding those, Flightradar24 registered 287,364 flights overall, resulting in the second-busiest day ever for air traffic.

The most-tracked flight of the busiest day on record regarding commercial flights was without a doubt the Qantas nonstop test flight from Toulouse Blagnac (TLS) to Melbourne Airport (MEL). During its 19 hours and 13 minutes in the air, the Airbus A350-1000ULR was followed by some 9,000 users at any given time.

The all-time record comes at a strange time for the aviation industry. At the end of 2025, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) projected that the aviation industry would reach a record total net profit of $41 billion in 2026 (up from $39.5 billion in 2025), while passenger numbers were expected to rise 4.4% to 5.2 billion. However, the IATA report highlighted that the sector’s net profit margin was predicted to be unchanged from 2025 at 3.9%, with net profit per passenger static, and cargo yields down 0.5%.

“In 2026, we expect an industry profit of $41 billion. Any large oil company can realize a similar profit in a single quarter, but this is for the entire industry for the entire year”, said IATA’s Chief Economist.

This, however, was even before the start of the US-Israel war on Iran late February 2026, which has caused a global fuel crisis, as well as a large amount of flight cancellations, deviations, and delays.

In May 2026, for example, the International Air Transport Association noted a 2.2% decrease in global passenger demand compared to 2025. That number was mainly driven by a 28.4% drop in traffic in the Middle East, as global passenger demand outside the Middle East was up 0.7% year over year.

Airline profitability “stable”, IATA says, but burdens and headwinds remain

“Global passenger demand is adjusting to this supply driven shock. Higher fuel costs, airspace disruptions, and longer routings are weighing on growth, yet underlying willingness to travel has not collapsed, only moderated. Passenger traffic is now forecast to grow by 2.1% in 2026, a material slowdown from recent years, with pronounced regional divergence: the Middle East faces a deep contraction due to airspace restrictions, while Africa and Asia Pacific grow thanks to traffic rerouting”, the IATA said in its Global Outlook for Air Transport June 2026, adding that cargo demand is expected to grow by just 0.7% in 2026.

At the time of writing, it is yet unclear what the summer of 2026 as a whole will have done for the global aviation industry. The record high in commercial air traffic registered on 223 July 2026 does not necessarily align with the overall summer trend, nor with passenger traffic.

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]]> Azores’ main airport to expand terminal amid growing tourism demand  https://traveltomorrow.com/azores-main-airport-to-expand-terminal-amid-growing-tourism-demand/ Tue, 28 Jul 2026 07:33:37 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181557 Portugal is pressing ahead with the modernisation of Ponta Delgada’s João Paulo II Airport as part of a wider strategy to upgrade the country’s aviation infrastructure […]

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]]> Portugal is pressing ahead with the modernisation of Ponta Delgada’s João Paulo II Airport as part of a wider strategy to upgrade the country’s aviation infrastructure while preparing the new Luís de Camões Airport that will eventually replace Lisbon’s existing hub.

Portugal’s Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, highlighted the transformation of the Azores’ main airport this week as part of the government’s national airport masterplan. According to figures shared by the minister, João Paulo II Airport handled around 3 million passengers in 2025, compared with approximately 1 million a decade earlier, reflecting the rapid growth of air travel and tourism in the archipelago. 

Located on São Miguel, Ponta Delgada is the main aviation gateway to the Azores, providing connections with mainland Portugal as well as destinations elsewhere in Europe and North America.

The airport’s expansion has evolved considerably since an earlier plan envisaged adding around 4,000 square metres, equivalent to approximately 30% of the terminal’s then-existing area. ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal subsequently unveiled a more ambitious redevelopment in November 2025, under which the terminal is expected to almost double in size by 2030, gaining around 15,000 square metres. 

The project will increase check-in capacity to more than twice its current level and enlarge boarding gate areas, security checkpoints and border control facilities. The objective is to improve the passenger experience and operational efficiency while giving the airport greater capacity to accommodate continued growth. 

For the Portuguese government, the investment also has a wider strategic importance, strengthening the connectivity of the Autonomous Region of the Azores and supporting an economy in which tourism has become increasingly important.

More than €400 million for Portugal’s airport network

The work in Ponta Delgada forms part of a national programme involving more than €400 million of investment in Portugal’s existing airport network, according to Pinto Luz. Rather than being allocated solely to the Azores, the funding covers infrastructure improvements across the country. 

The programme is intended to address more immediate capacity and passenger needs while Portugal prepares for a much larger transformation of its aviation infrastructure: the construction of Lisbon’s new Luís de Camões Airport.

ANA presented its latest technical plan for the new airport last week. Located at the Alcochete Firing Range, across the Tagus from Lisbon, the project is currently estimated to cost between €7.9 billion and €8.9 billion at 2024 prices. 

The airport is designed to open with two runways and a terminal of approximately 500,000 square metres, featuring 64 boarding gates and 72 air bridges. Initial capacity is projected at 56 million passengers per year, with the possibility of expanding to 85 million in the longer term. 

The latest timetable foresees construction starting in 2029 and being completed in 2033, followed by testing and certification. ANA says the airport could consequently become operational from 2035, although the schedule remains dependent on the various approval, environmental and construction stages. 

The project is also expected to be integrated into Portugal’s wider transport network. Plans include a high-speed rail connection that could reduce the journey between the airport and central Lisbon to around 20 minutes, using the planned Third Tagus Crossing. 

Until the new airport becomes operational, investment will continue at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport as well as at other airports across the country, including Porto, Faro, Madeira and the Azores. 

Taken together, the projects reflect the pressure that sustained growth in travel and tourism is placing on Portugal’s aviation infrastructure. In Ponta Delgada, where passenger volumes have roughly tripled over the past decade according to the government, that transformation is already underway.

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]]> Saudi Arabia emerges as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination https://traveltomorrow.com/saudi-arabia-emerges-as-the-worlds-fastest-growing-tourism-destination/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 13:15:51 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181493 Saudi Arabia has recorded the largest increase in international tourist arrivals compared to pre-COVID numbers, according to newly released data from the OECD, while Israel saw […]

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]]> Saudi Arabia has recorded the largest increase in international tourist arrivals compared to pre-COVID numbers, according to newly released data from the OECD, while Israel saw the steepest decline.

These figures are taken from the OECD’s 2026 Tourism Trends and Policies report, which compiles international tourism data and highlights best practices, key policy reforms, and statistical profiles for 53 OECD and partner countries. International arrivals were compared between 2019 and 2025.

The report provides a clear picture of which destinations have recovered and which continue to struggle.

With a 67% increase in international arrivals over the period, Saudi Arabia tops the ranking, making it the fastest-growing tourist destination in the world. Last year, it welcomed around 30 million international visitors, having invested billions in tourism as part of its Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.

In recent years, the country has transformed its image by introducing easier visa policies, expanding airline capacity, and making major investments in heritage sites, entertainment, luxury resorts, and large-scale events.

While the figures suggest that these efforts are paying off, they also demonstrate how much further the country must go to achieve its goal of attracting 150 million domestic and international visitors each year by 2030. An estimated 65% of Saudi Arabia’s 29.3 million international visitors in 2025 came from Muslim-majority countries, led by Egypt, Pakistan, Indonesia, and the Gulf states. Makkah Province, home to Mecca and the gateway city of Jeddah, attracted 22.5 million visitors — more than any other region — although this figure includes arrivals via Jeddah airport and is not limited to religious tourism.

Nevertheless, 2025 marked a milestone as non-religious tourism (52%) overtook religious tourism (48%) for the first time, up from 44% in 2019. This suggests that the country’s efforts to diversify beyond Hajj and Umrah are beginning to bear fruit.

Morocco ranks second, with international arrivals up by 53% compared to 2019. This is followed by Egypt (up by 47%), Brazil (up by 46%), Colombia (up by 45%) and Japan (up by 34%).

Europe rounds out the top ten. Norway is up 28%, though Haaland fever is likely to push this figure even higher in 2026. Serbia is up 27%, and Denmark is up 22%. Beyond the top ten, notable increases were also recorded in Portugal, Spain and France.

Overall, international tourism across the 53 countries studied grew by 4% compared to 2019, reaching approximately 1.5 billion cross-border arrivals by 2025.

However, not every destination has recovered.

Israel recorded the largest decline by far, with international arrivals down 71% from 2019 levels. This reflects the collapse in tourism following the 7 October 2023 attack by Hamas and the subsequent regional conflict. This decline occurred despite Israel having enjoyed a strong recovery prior to the war, with around 3.2 million visitors welcomed during the first nine months of 2023, suggesting it was on track for one of its strongest tourism years since the pandemic.

Ireland ranked second among the countries with the biggest declines, with arrivals down 32%, followed by Argentina with a decline of 23%. Analysts have attributed Ireland’s decline to rising travel costs, reduced accommodation capacity, weaker demand from key overseas markets, and the ongoing effects of Brexit.

Elsewhere, the United States recorded a 14% decline compared to 2019, while arrivals to Canada were down 11%.

Germany (-6%) and Italy (-5%) also remained below their pre-pandemic levels.

In the Asia-Pacific region, Thailand recorded the largest decline (-17%), followed by New Zealand (-9%), Australia (-6%) and Indonesia (-4%). Peru also remained well below its 2019 figure, with arrivals down 22%.

Despite these exceptions, the OECD concludes that international tourism has now largely recovered from the pandemic, with most destinations matching or surpassing their pre-COVID visitor numbers.

L’article Saudi Arabia emerges as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

]]> Wildfires hit tourist areas in France and Spain as 375,000 people are forced to flee https://traveltomorrow.com/wildfires-hit-tourist-areas-in-france-and-spain-as-375000-people-are-forced-to-flee/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:37:22 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181479 As a new heatwave is expected to strike western Europe, France and Spain continue to combat major wildfires. While the Gironde and Landes wildfires near the […]

L’article Wildfires hit tourist areas in France and Spain as 375,000 people are forced to flee est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

]]> As a new heatwave is expected to strike western Europe, France and Spain continue to combat major wildfires. While the Gironde and Landes wildfires near the city of Bordeaux in France have forced 260,000 people to flee their homes, a blaze near Madrid has forced 116,000 inhabitants to evacuate. After an intense weekend, this is how the situation is looking on Monday, 27 July 2026.

France

Several major wildfires have been hitting France since the start of June, and some parts of the country are bracing themselves for a fourth heatwave. All eyes are on the French southwest at the time of writing, as two distinct yet nearby areas in the region are facing wildfires of historical dimensions.

The largest blaze started on 22 July 2026 in the town of Saumos in the Gironde department. Since then, approximately 42,000 hectares are thought to have been destroyed completely or partially by the flames, triggering the evacuation of 220,000 people across 23 towns, including tourists staying at local holiday homes, hotels, and camping grounds. Some 240 homes have burned down entirely, and 2,500 firefighters are battling the flames, 84 of whom were injured during the task.

On Monday 27 July 2026, the wildfire which took off in Saumos still isn’t under control. With a new heatwave expected to hit the region from Tuesday 28 July onwards, firefighters are doing everything they can to put out the flames, a task that is being made particularly difficult due to the fact that the fire evolved into a so-called ‘pyrocumulonimbus’. The phenomenon, unseen in France until now, means the blaze turned into a thunderstorm fuelled by its own winds and lightning.

A second wildfire started in the town of Biscarosse in the nearby Landes department on 23 July. On the evening of 26 July 2026, 3,600 hectares had been burned down, and the fire still wasn’t fixed. While some 5,000 people were able to return to their homes, the situation remains unstable.

A third fire in the Var has meanwhile burned down 4,500 hectares of vegetation, mobilising some 1,000 firefighters and leading to the evacuation of people in the towns of Barjols, Châteauvert, and Correns. As the wind is making it difficult to contain the situation at the time of writing, although the evening of Monday 27 July might bring rain.

Given the large number of wildfires that have been hitting France since the start of the summer, French president Emmanuel Macron has organised a crisis meeting on Monday, 27 July.

As far as travellers are concerned, the prefect of the Gironde, Sophie Brocas, is advising all those who were planning to travel to the popular region over the coming days (or even weeks) to stay home. She further added that those who were already on-site are invited to look for alternatives, especially since the situation may worsen yet again as of 28 July.

Although travellers could opt to travel to one of the nearby towns or departments, it is worth noting that the wildfires have caused a severe deterioration of the air quality in at least four departments: Gironde, Landes, Dordogne, and Lot-et-Garonne. Masks are currently being distributed in order to protect inhabitants, especially the elderly, those who are struggling with health issues, and children.

Spain

In its turn, Spain has been combating its share of wildfires too over the course of the summer. Provisional data show that over 170,000 hectares of forest land have been affected by wildfires in Spain since the beginning of 2026, compared to just 29,000 in 2025.

At the moment of writing, some 76,000 people have been evacuated across Spain while 30,000 others are confined to their homes, as firefighters are battling the flames throughout the country, with the biggest blazes currently located near Madrid, Ávila, and Valencia. The fire in Ávila burned down 25,000 hectares ravagés and is said to be the biggest one in Spain in recent history.

“What we are living through is not a series of isolated incidents. It is … the most painful manifestation of a climate emergency that is making … wildfires more voracious and heatwaves more frequent, and, as a result, our land more vulnerable. It is no longer an exception. It is the rule,” Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez said at a climate conference in Madrid.

While Spanish authorities said the fire near Madrid slowed down overnight, the blaze currently remains “active and uncontrolled”. While some people have been allowed to return to their homes, citizens and visitors alike are urged to continue exercising extreme caution.

With extreme temperatures being announced over the coming days, it is unclear how the wildfires across Spain and France will evolve. However, 2026 is already likely to go into history as a record year.

“Last year, one million hectares burned during the summer and so we are expecting to face another historic, sad record because the season has started earlier in the year,” the EU commissioner for crisis management, Hadja Lahbib, told the BBC, specifying it was likely 2026’s damage from wildfires would exceed previous records.

L’article Wildfires hit tourist areas in France and Spain as 375,000 people are forced to flee est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

]]> Qantas tests new aircraft for future 20-hour Sydney–London non-stop flights https://traveltomorrow.com/qantas-tests-new-aircraft-for-future-20-hour-sydney-london-non-stop-flights/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:59:18 +0000 https://traveltomorrow.com/?p=181464 Qantas’s Project Sunrise has reached a major milestone with a 19-hour, non-stop test flight from Toulouse, France, to Melbourne, Australia, aboard a specially designed aircraft for […]

L’article Qantas tests new aircraft for future 20-hour Sydney–London non-stop flights est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

]]> Qantas’s Project Sunrise has reached a major milestone with a 19-hour, non-stop test flight from Toulouse, France, to Melbourne, Australia, aboard a specially designed aircraft for ultra-long-haul travel.

The aircraft flew from Airbus’s manufacturing facility in Toulouse to Melbourne in just under 20 hours and is the first of 12 Airbus A350-1000ULRs that Qantas has ordered for the programme. Although this factory test and delivery flight took place between France and Australia, the first commercial service under Project Sunrise will connect Sydney and London in October 2027, followed by New York.

The flight attracted enormous interest from aviation enthusiasts, with more than 67,000 people tracking it live on Flightradar24. By the time the aircraft landed, this figure had increased to approximately 75,000 people, making it the second most-followed flight on the platform after the flight carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin from Edinburgh to London in 2022.

The aircraft left Toulouse at 7:33 a.m. local time on Thursday and touched down in Melbourne at 10:46 a.m. local time. Qantas said four Airbus test pilots and five flight-test engineers were on board, while two Qantas pilots will join the crew for Monday’s return flight to Toulouse, expected to take around 23 hours.

Chief technical pilot Alex Passerini said the return journey would enable the crew to test a range of systems, from fuel management to air conditioning, under operational conditions. Scheduled rest periods have also been built into the flight. “Everyone is going to get tired,” he told Channel Seven.

For now, the aircraft isn’t wearing Qantas’s distinctive red livery. Instead, it has a plain tan colour scheme which gives it a faintly military feel, with only Qantas logos on the wingtips. This test flight follows a shorter one in early June: a three-hour, 43-minute journey over France and the French Atlantic coast.

The key modification that makes Project Sunrise possible is an additional 20,000-litre fuel tank, which enables the A350-1000ULR to operate flights lasting up to 22 hours.

Qantas has ordered twelve of these 238-seat aircraft, which are currently on the production line. They are expected to start arriving in April 2027 following several programme delays.

Chief executive Vanessa Hudson has confirmed that tickets for the inaugural Sydney–London service will go on sale in February 2027, ahead of the service’s launch in October. Sydney–New York flights are expected to follow. Flights from Melbourne have yet to be confirmed.

“We will be able to announce the routes progressively as the new aircraft arrive over the next two and a half years,” Hudson said. “Demand can change, and we’re going to be responsive to that.”

Passerini also revealed that the London–Sydney flight path will go over the North Pole. While this may seem counterintuitive given the extra distance, favourable winds along this route can make it the faster option depending on the season.

Passengers on flights to London will spend around 12 hours in darkness and cross seven to nine time zones, while those travelling to New York will cross up to 16.

Peter Cistulli, a sleep medicine professor who advised Qantas on Project Sunrise, says crossing up to 16 time zones is “a major biological challenge”. As light is “the strongest environmental cue for the body clock”, the airline has focused on cabin lighting, meal timing, and protected sleep periods to help passengers adjust more quickly to their destination.

A wellness zone, developed with the Charles Perkins Centre and open to all passengers, will be located between the premium economy and economy cabins and will offer guided in-flight exercises.

L’article Qantas tests new aircraft for future 20-hour Sydney–London non-stop flights est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

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