The project has roots in a 2024 visit to Saudi Arabia, when Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discovered a shared interest in Dragon Ball Z. Qiddiya Investment Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, has been developing the world’s first Dragon Ball theme park in Saudi Arabia since 2024, prompting discussions about a similar project in France.

On Monday, 24 August 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron was finally able to take to X to make an “extraordinary” announcement: a €6 billion investment by Saudi Arabia in an entertainment complex in the town of Cergy-Pontoise near Paris. A total of three theme parks have been planned, one of which will probably be dedicated to Dragon Ball Z.

“You are aware of my interest in manga. You also know of my determination to attract investment to France that creates jobs and makes the most ambitious projects possible. Together with Saudi Arabia, we are making an unprecedented announcement. Three theme parks are to be built in Cergy-Pontoise. €6 billion in investment. 22,000 jobs created. Unprecedented since Disneyland Paris. A new global destination. Right here in France,” Macron wrote.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Présidence de la République (@elysee)

The agreement was part of a wider series of deals struck between France and Saudi Arabia during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Paris. A memorandum of understanding for the project was signed by French Economy Minister Roland Lescure and the chief executive of Qiddiya Investment Company.

Qiddiya Investment Company’s recent interest in theme parks and other forms of entertainment is part of a wider push by Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy, reducing its dependence on oil and investing in other sectors, including tourism and entertainment.

“Thank you to Qiddiya and Saudi Arabia for their confidence in our country, our talent and our future. That is the very essence of Choose France: to seek out the most ambitious projects and make France the country where they become a reality. To create jobs. To promote France’s reputation. We haven’t finished surprising the world yet. I am very proud of this achievement,” Macron added.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ᖇᗩᐯᗴᑎ (@lantre_du_corbeau)

While several potential locations were initially considered, the entertainment complex is set to be located on the grounds of Mirapolis, a former theme park that has been closed since 1991. Qiddiya reportedly favoured the location because of its proximity to both the French capital and Disneyland Paris.

Aside from the three parks, the site is expected to include hotels, catering facilities and housing for young workers and students. Moreover, some 50,000 square metres of green space will be dedicated to biodiversity. At the time of writing, no exact timeline has been announced for the project, but construction is expected to take several years.

L’article Saudi Arabia to invest €6 billion in Dragon Ball Z theme park near Paris est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

But the balance of European tourism may be shifting.

A major study by Deloitte and Google forecasts that Spain will overtake France by 2040, receiving around 110 million international tourists a year compared with 105 million in France.

The difference may appear relatively small, but the forecast points to a larger transformation of global tourism. International travel is expected to expand from around 1.5 billion trips in 2019 to 2.4 billion by 2040, while the traditional dominance of a handful of countries gradually gives way to a more diversified tourism map.

For Spain, however, the most striking point is that a forecast once looking relatively distant is beginning to appear increasingly plausible.

In 2025, Spain welcomed a record 96.8 million international tourists, up 3.2% from the previous year. As Travel Tomorrow reported in July, the country is now on course to approach or potentially surpass the symbolic threshold of 100 million visitors in 2026.

If that happens, Spain could effectively reach within the next year a level that leaves it only around 10 million visitors short of Deloitte and Google’s projection for 2040.

A global tourism market heading towards 2.4 billion trips

The Deloitte and Google research looks at how international travel has evolved over several decades and models how demographic, economic and geopolitical changes could reshape the sector up to 2040.

Between 1975 and 2019, global international arrivals roughly doubled every 15 years, eventually reaching almost 1.5 billion before the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted that trajectory.

The long-term growth story is nevertheless expected to continue. By 2040, the study anticipates around 2.4 billion international trips globally.

Europe will remain the largest destination region, capturing 38% of the additional international arrivals generated between 2019 and 2040. That represents more than 362 million incremental tourists. Asia-Pacific follows with more than 278 million additional visitors.

The five leading destinations accounted for around 30% of global arrivals in 2019. By 2040, Deloitte and Google expect their combined share to fall to approximately 20%, even though most of today’s tourism giants will remain near the top.

Spain, France, the United States and China are all expected to retain positions in the global top five. Mexico is projected to rise to fifth place, pushing Italy into sixth, while destinations such as Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates could enter the top 15.

The Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, the emerging tourism markets of the Middle East and the Caribbean are collectively expected to account for around 45% of international travellers.

Spain is already closing the gap

France remains number one today and its latest figures underline the scale of that achievement.

As Travel Tomorrow reported earlier this year, France welcomed 102 million international visitors in 2025, compared with 100 million in 2024. Those travellers generated 743 million overnight stays, while international tourism receipts reached a record €77.5 billion, an increase of 9% year-on-year.

France therefore still welcomed around five million more international visitors than Spain in 2025.

Spain earned €134.7 billion from international tourists in 2025, up 6.8% from €126.3 billion in 2024, according to official Spanish figures. That means Spain generated considerably more international visitor spending despite receiving fewer tourists.

El turismo internacional se mantiene como un motor clave de nuestra economía.

En el primer semestre, España recibió la visita de 46,6 M de turistas internacionales (+4,6% que en 2025), quienes realizaron un gasto de más de 63.800 M € (+7%).

https://t.co/B5b9o5WET0 pic.twitter.com/vbimq9mKNZ

— Ministerio de Industria y Turismo (@minturgob) August 3, 2026

Part of the difference comes from length of stay. International visitors to Spain tend to remain longer than those travelling to France, allowing accommodation, restaurants, attractions and other tourism businesses to capture more spending per trip.

The comparison also highlights one of the increasingly important questions facing mature tourism destinations: is success best measured by the number of people who cross the border, or by the economic, social and environmental value generated by each visitor?

France itself is increasingly emphasising the latter. Its tourism authorities aim to increase international tourism receipts to €100 billion by 2030 while positioning the country as a leading sustainable destination, rather than simply focusing on maintaining the highest arrival figures. Spain is moving in a similar direction.

From record arrivals to ‘calm growth’

Spain’s rise has been driven by a combination of factors that are difficult for competitors to replicate: an enormous tourism infrastructure, strong aviation connectivity, beaches and islands, major cultural cities, a broad hotel supply and a climate that allows tourism to operate throughout much of the year.

Its tourism geography is also remarkably diverse. Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia and Málaga compete alongside the Canary and Balearic Islands, the Mediterranean coast, northern Spain, historic inland cities and increasingly popular rural and nature destinations.

Changing travel patterns are helping too. Shoulder-season tourism is growing, while warmer temperatures and changing traveller preferences are making spring, autumn and even winter increasingly attractive periods for visiting southern Europe.

But Spain’s government has begun signalling that it does not want the next chapter of tourism growth simply to be a race towards ever greater numbers.

Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu has described the preferred model as “calm growth”, with authorities seeking to spread visitors geographically and seasonally rather than concentrating ever larger numbers in the country’s established hotspots.

As Travel Tomorrow reported when looking at Spain’s prospects of reaching 100 million visitors in 2026, the government has been promoting inland destinations, gastronomy, nature, cultural tourism and travel outside the traditional summer peak.

This year’s total solar eclipse has provided one example of how a major event can redirect international visitors towards rural and lesser-known parts of the country.

Yet if Deloitte and Google are right and Spain eventually reaches 110 million annual visitors, redistribution will become more than a marketing objective. It will be an economic and political necessity.

The overtourism paradox

Spain’s rise to the top of world tourism would represent an extraordinary commercial success. But it would also sharpen one of the country’s most difficult debates.

Anti-overtourism demonstrations have become a recurring feature in Barcelona, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands and other heavily visited destinations. Protesters have focused on housing shortages, short-term holiday rentals, congestion, pressure on public services, water use and the perception that local communities increasingly bear the costs of a tourism industry whose benefits are unevenly distributed.

The Spanish authorities have responded with measures at national, regional and municipal level.

The government has ordered tens of thousands of properties that failed to meet requirements for tourist and seasonal accommodation to be removed from the relevant rental register. Barcelona intends to end licences for around 10,000 tourist apartments by 2028, effectively eliminating the city’s legal short-term apartment stock under the current system.

Cruise tourism has also come under greater scrutiny. Barcelona has already reduced the number of terminals used by cruise ships in its central port area, while other cities are examining ways to manage passenger flows.

In the Balearic Islands, tighter restrictions have targeted alcohol-fuelled tourism and party boats, while Málaga has launched campaigns asking visitors to respect local residents, keep noise down and behave appropriately in public spaces.

These interventions show the contradiction at the heart of the 2040 forecast.

For national tourism accounts, another 10 or 15 million tourists represent billions of euros in additional economic activity. At neighbourhood level, however, the same growth may translate into additional pressure on rents, transport systems, beaches, historic centres and natural resources.

Spain therefore faces the challenge of becoming the world’s most visited country without allowing the volume of tourism to undermine the very qualities that make people want to visit.

France is unlikely to surrender its crown quietly

It would also be premature to regard Spain’s takeover as inevitable.

Forecasts extending to 2040 inevitably depend on assumptions about economic growth, population, aviation, climate change, geopolitics, disposable income and the expansion of the global middle class.

France also possesses formidable structural advantages.

Paris remains one of the world’s most powerful destination brands, but French tourism extends far beyond the capital. The Alps, Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, wine regions, villages, gastronomy, cultural heritage and extensive rail network give the country an extraordinarily broad tourism offer.

France is also attempting to distribute tourism more evenly through wine tourism, agritourism, memorial tourism, nature tourism and lesser-known regional destinations.

After receiving 102 million international tourists in 2025, it needs only modest growth to reach Deloitte and Google’s 105 million forecast for 2040. Spain, by contrast, would need to accommodate around 13 million more international arrivals than in 2025 to reach 110 million.

In numerical terms, neither projection looks particularly radical. The real question is what happens between those figures.

Being number one may no longer be the most important target

For decades, tourism rankings have rewarded volume. The country receiving the largest number of international arrivals takes the crown, generating headlines and political prestige.

But the Spain-France comparison increasingly exposes the limitations of that metric. Spain already generates substantially more international tourism expenditure than France despite welcoming fewer visitors. Both countries are simultaneously trying to increase tourism revenues while reducing congestion, spreading demand into different regions and seasons, and mitigating the impact on residents.

The global tourism industry itself is changing. By 2040, hundreds of millions of additional people are expected to travel internationally, fuelled particularly by the expansion of middle classes in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Africa.

That creates an enormous economic opportunity for Europe. It also means that destinations already dealing with overtourism cannot simply assume that absorbing more visitors is the objective.

Spain may indeed overtake France and become the world’s most visited country by 2040. At its current rate of growth, it could even happen considerably sooner.

But the more consequential test will not be whether Spain reaches 110 million tourists, or whether France manages to remain ahead.

It will be whether Europe’s two tourism superpowers can demonstrate that record demand can coexist with affordable housing, liveable cities, protected natural resources and communities that continue to see tourism as an asset rather than a burden.

By 2040, that may be a far more meaningful measure of tourism leadership than the number at the top of an arrivals table.

L’article Spain to overtake France as world’s most visited country by 2040, study predicts  est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The phenomenon, first reported by Travel Tomorrow in 2024, has now reached the stage where nearly half of the destinations trending among Gen Z for autumn 2026 are small towns rather than major cities, figures from the global booking platform show.

What’s more, nearly two-thirds (63%) of Gen Z travellers said that “being one of the first people they know to visit a place feels like a status symbol,” and over 50% avoid tourist destinations because they’re too crowded to enjoy, the platform says.

Indeed, the trend is so marked that Airbnb has started tailoring promotions around it. This autumn sees the launch of a “have u considered?” campaign that aims to reframe “under-the-radar” American towns as “must-visit destinations”, with the help of influencers from the worlds of art, comedy and music endorsing their favourite localities.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Airbnb (@airbnb)

Under-the-radar towns take centre stage

Hot Springs, Arkansas,  is one of the first small-town beneficiaries of the campaign, alongside Bemidji, Minnesota, on the southwest shore of Lake Bemidji, and nicknamed “The First City on the Mississippi.” The third town to get the “have u considered?” treatment is Gibsonton, Florida, known for its historic links to the performing arts and circus sector.

As holidaymakers increasingly extend their travel windows into the so-called “shoulder seasons”, the range of destinations they might choose is changing, as Ali Killam, editorial content lead at Airbnb, told Travel+Leisure.

Consumers are “increasingly taking more weekend adventures in the fall, whether that’s Gen Z chasing local lore, or a family packing the car for foliage and apple picking,” Killam said, adding: “We’re seeing travelers look beyond traditional fall destinations to explore places that feel more personal, quirky and unexpected.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Airbnb (@airbnb)

Can popularity undermine the appeal?

Killam’s remarks also reflect the findings of Skift’s recent State of Travel 2026 report, indicating that consumers are increasingly seeking authenticity and cultural immersion over other travel priorities. In fact, the search for a unique experience is such a strong driver that any perception of overtourism or saturation is likely to drive those same Gen Z travellers away, meaning that the very inclusion of Hot Springs, Bemidji and Gibsonton on Airbnb’s “non-touristy” tourism map could ultimately tarnish their appeal.

L’article Nearly three quarters of Gen Z prefer small-town trips over big cities, Airbnb says est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

For many people in regions in the path of totality, 2026 gave them their first-ever glimpse of a total eclipse. Iceland, where around 80,000 stargazers are reported to have travelled this time, had not experienced a total eclipse since 1954 and will not witness one again in those viewers’ lifetimes, with the next scheduled for 2196.

In Spain, which was expecting up to six million eclipse arrivals thanks to the promise of clear skies and good views, it was the first total eclipse for 121 years.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Travel Tomorrow (@traveltomorrow.eu)

But in 2027, an eclipse is to come that will eclipse all that. At the start of August, the longest total solar eclipse of the century will sweep over Spain, North Africa and the Middle East, creating six and a half minutes of wonder in locations as iconic as Egypt’s Valley of the Kings.

Alongside Egypt, countries and territories in the path of totality include Algeria, Gibraltar, Libya, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Spain, Tunisia and Yemen, as well as parts of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, meaning that uncanny eclipse darkness will fall on destinations including Cádiz, Tangier, Luxor and Jeddah.

Eclipse-related bookings are likely to soar again, especially in places already known as tourist magnets, like Marbella, which will see nearly three and a half minutes of totality. Brits and European’s wishing to stick to the region may also flock to Gibraltar, where totality will stretch as long as four minutes and 28 seconds.

The Italian Pelagian island of Lampedusa, accessible mainly by ferry or mainland air connections, is not out of the eclipse picture either, but, like Gibraltar, its infrastructure could struggle to cope with an influx of eclipse visitors.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nagi Tour | Viaggi a Lampedusa (@nagitour_lampedusa)

Morocco’s Tangier will get almost five minutes of totality. The Tunisian port of Sfax will go dark for two minutes and 56 seconds, and Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah and Mecca will both experience more than five minutes in the moon’s shadow.

But it is Egypt that is attracting the most attention. The Siwa Oasis is likely to offer reflections of the eclipse in stunning salt lakes and against dramatic desert backdrops, as will the otherworldly ancient ruins of Shali Fortress, with a full five minutes and 33 seconds to get the perfect shot. The Bahariya Oasis is another option.

Asyut is a more off-the-beaten-path city destination steeped in history, and religious and cultural heritage that will be plunged into darkness for just over six minutes. But, as a less touristy, more conservative area, it may be more suitable for more experienced travellers.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Derya Ozboz (@astroderya)

Luxor’s eclipse, meanwhile, will last six minutes and 22 seconds, combining extended viewing time with probably zero cloud cover in the pharaohs’ ancient royal burial ground. Its monuments possess a “scale and grandeur” that cannot be matched by “anything in the world”, according to Lonely Planet, while the 2027 eclipse promises to add an out-of-this-world experience.

L’article Where to travel to see the “eclipse of the century” in 2027 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Sprankelend Hageland, organised across the wine-producing region of Flemish Brabant, features 21 activities this year, giving visitors the opportunity to meet local winemakers and discover vineyards that are not always accessible to the public. Many participating estates can be visited without an appointment, while the programme also includes organised tastings, guided walks and special events.

Located between Leuven, Aarschot, Diest and Tienen, Hageland is Belgium’s oldest recognised wine region. Its iron-rich sandstone soils, rolling hills and favourable microclimate have helped create a distinctive local terroir. In 1997, Hagelandse wijn became the first Belgian wine to receive a protected designation of origin.

22–23 August: Start in the vineyards of Tielt-Winge

The opening weekend puts the spotlight on Tielt-Winge and particularly the vineyards around Houwaart, making it possible to visit several producers during the same day.

At Wijngaard ten Gaerde, visitors can taste the new vintage of 100% Belgian wines and settle down among the vines, while winemakers Danny and André introduce guests to Hageland wine production. The vineyard is open from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, with admission free.

Nearby, Het Eikenvat will offer tastings of its white, red and rosé wines throughout the weekend. Visitors can walk through the vineyard and enjoy the surrounding views, with a guided vineyard walk also planned for Sunday 23 August.

Wijndomein den Eeckhout is putting together an especially extensive programme. Alongside tastings of seven wines from the 2025 harvest, there will be free guided tours, live piano music among the vines, an outdoor photography exhibition, art, children’s activities and local food. The estate also highlights its biodiversity initiatives, including a flower meadow, pond and natural water purification system.

At Houwaartse Wijngaard, visitors can enjoy estate-produced Hageland wines among the vines overlooking the rolling landscape of the Houwaartse Berg. Oysters and small regional dishes will accompany the wines, while photography will be displayed among the vines.

Wijndomein Haksberg completes a particularly concentrated cluster of participating vineyards in Tielt-Winge.

On Sunday, visitors can also head to Wezemaal for a visit to the Steenen Muur vineyards and the Hageland Wine Visitor Centre. The programme runs from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm and can be rounded off with a tasting of Hageland wines in the wine cellar beneath the visitor centre.

29–30 August: Wine festivals, music and vineyard walks

The second weekend is particularly varied, combining open vineyards with food, live music, walking and one of the region’s established wine celebrations.

On Saturday 29 August, the Wezemaalse Wijnfeesten bring wine festivities to Wezemaal from 2:00 pm until midnight.

Another option for Saturday is the summer bar at Wijndomein Franckenberg in Meensel-Kiezegem, where visitors can combine local wines with fresh pizza and views across the vineyards from 3:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

Wine estates opening their doors during the weekend also include Wijndomein Liemau, Wijnfaktorij, Wijndomein Chartreuzenberg and Wijndomein Graevenberger.

For visitors who want to combine wine with walking, Sunday 30 August brings a free guided walk across the Wijngaardberg in Wezemaal. The route passes through the vineyards towards the historic ironstone wine wall, including a section that has been carefully restored.

Before or after the walk, visitors can explore the Hageland Wine Visitor Centre and head downstairs to its wine cellar to taste wines produced around the Wijngaardberg.

5–6 September: Discover another side of Hageland wine

Sprankelend Hageland continues into the first weekend of September, offering another opportunity to go behind the scenes of the region’s wine industry.

On Sunday 6 September, the Steenen Muur vineyards and Hageland Wine Visitor Centre once again welcome visitors between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm. Guests can explore the vineyards and visitor centre before finishing in the cellar with a tasting of wines produced in the region.

The weekend is a good opportunity to slow the pace and combine a vineyard visit with one of Hageland’s walking or cycling routes, exploring the hills and landscapes that shape the character of its wines.

12–13 September: A final weekend among the vines

Sprankelend Hageland concludes on 12 and 13 September, providing a final opportunity to experience the region as summer begins to give way to the grape harvest.

At Wijndomein Franckenberg in Meensel-Kiezegem, the estate opens to the public on both days. Visitors can join guided tours and taste the wines while looking out across the vineyards.

Wijndomein Petrushoeve in Molenbeek-Wersbeek is another option for the closing weekend. Visitors can explore the estate, take part in guided tours running hourly between noon and 5:00 pm and taste its wines. Pizza prepared in the estate’s own wood-fired oven will also be available.

Walk between the vineyards

The wine itself is only part of Hageland’s appeal. The vineyards are scattered across a rolling landscape of hills, forests, sunken lanes and villages that makes the region particularly well suited to walking and cycling.

Travel Tomorrow previously explored five walks through Hageland’s vineyards, ranging from the 7-km Chartreuzenberg Walk to the 12-km Speelberg Walk.

One of the most accessible introductions is the 7.4-km Wijngaardberg Walk from Wezemaal, which combines vineyard landscapes with the region’s distinctive ironstone wine wall. The 9.2-km Houwaartseberg Walk, meanwhile, passes a particularly dense concentration of vineyards before reaching the Wijnbank, a giant wine bench overlooking the surrounding landscape.

More ambitious walkers can opt for the 10.7-km From Hill to Hill Walk, which combines the Houwaartseberg vineyards with the wetlands and woodland of the Walen Forest.

The walks make it possible to turn Sprankelend Hageland into more than a wine-tasting excursion, combining local food and drink with a day or weekend exploring the Flemish Brabant countryside.

With 21 activities spread across four weekends, Sprankelend Hageland offers more than a traditional wine festival. It is an opportunity to travel through one of Belgium’s most distinctive wine landscapes, meet the people producing its increasingly recognised wines and discover how viticulture has become part of the region’s tourism identity.

The full programme runs from 22 August to 13 September 2026. Visitors can consult the complete Sprankelend Hageland activities programme before travelling, particularly for guided tours and experiences where advance registration may be required.

L’article Hageland celebrates Belgian wine with four weekends of tastings and vineyard tours est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

According to The Times, industry sources say European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas has privately indicated that flexibility around the checks could continue if necessary. The reported assurances come amid mounting pressure from European governments, airlines and airports over the impact of the system during the peak summer travel season.

The EES began its phased rollout in October 2025 and became fully operational across 29 European countries in April 2026. It replaces manual passport stamping with the electronic registration of non-EU nationals entering and leaving the Schengen Area, recording information including fingerprints and facial images.

September deadline under pressure

The latest reports follow a joint appeal by nine European countries to extend flexibility on EES border checks.

Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal and Switzerland wrote to European Commissioner for Internal Affairs Magnus Brunner in July, warning that the current partial suspension mechanism should remain available beyond its scheduled expiry on 6 September 2026.

The mechanism allows border authorities, in exceptional circumstances, to temporarily suspend the collection of travellers’ biometric data while continuing to register their entry and exit from the Schengen Area. Governments argue that removing that safeguard could create serious operational problems at busy border crossings.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aeroporto de Lisboa (@aeroportolisboa)

The European Commission has so far stressed that existing legislation contains flexibility provisions and that it remains in contact with member states experiencing difficulties, but has not formally confirmed that the current arrangements will be extended.

According to The Times, however, Tzitzikostas has privately reassured industry representatives that the checks could be paused where necessary. He is also reported to have given similar assurances to the UK following a meeting with British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander on 14 July.

“We want everyone to have the summer holidays they deserve – and yesterday’s meeting shows everyone is pulling in the same direction,” Alexander said following the meeting. “I was reassured that the EU commissioner for transport understood the concerns of holidaymakers and recognised the need for us to work together.”

Airports and airlines warn of queues

Pressure on Brussels has intensified after passengers faced lengthy queues at some European airports following the introduction of biometric checks.

As Travel Tomorrow previously reported, Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE), Airlines for Europe (A4E) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have called for greater flexibility after reporting border delays of up to five hours at some airports.

Ryanair has also warned of “queue chaos”, arguing that some airports do not yet have sufficient staffing, kiosks or infrastructure to handle EES procedures efficiently during periods of high demand. Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport in Spain has been among the airports singled out over concerns about preparedness.

The Spanish airport is preparing a major expansion and redevelopment project that will include infrastructure intended to improve the handling of EES procedures.

EasyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis has similarly described queues linked to the new controls as “completely unacceptable”, while Fraport Greece chief executive Alexander Zinell has warned that temporary suspension measures have been crucial in preventing even greater disruption at the 14 Greek airports operated by the company.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Athens International Airport (@athairport)

British travellers among those most affected

The issue is particularly significant for British travellers. Following Brexit, UK citizens are treated as third-country nationals when entering the Schengen Area and are therefore required to use the EES.

Under the system, travellers on short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period have their entry and exit electronically registered. Biometric information is collected when required, replacing the passport stamps previously used to track stays in the Schengen Area.

@bethwill_x 3 hours later and no air con • • • #verona #veronaairport #italy #ees #airportsecurity ♬ som original – Marketing digital

The disruption is particularly significant for British travellers. Following Brexit, UK citizens are treated as third-country nationals when entering the Schengen Area and are therefore subject to EES requirements. Concerns over delays have also increased interest in European destinations outside the EES, including EU countries such as Cyprus and Ireland, which are outside the Schengen Area, as well as destinations such as Albania, Montenegro, Serbia and Türkiye.

The current debate is therefore not about abandoning the EES itself. European governments continue to support the digital border system and its security objectives, but are increasingly calling for authorities to retain the ability to temporarily ease biometric requirements when passenger volumes threaten to overwhelm border infrastructure.

With the partial suspension mechanism currently due to expire on 6 September, Brussels is under growing pressure to clarify whether that flexibility will remain available into the autumn.

L’article EU could extend flexibility on EES border checks amid fears of further travel disruption est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The deal comes after rival bidder Castlelake withdrew from the acquisition process, leaving Apollo’s offer of approximately €8.30 per share unchallenged. The transaction values the airline at around €6.6 billion and is expected to complete by the end of March 2027, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

Apollo said it supports easyJet’s existing strategy and does not intend to cut jobs during the first year following completion of the takeover. The investment firm has also committed to retaining the airline’s UK and EU headquarters while backing its long-term expansion plans.

Months-long bidding battle

The agreement marks the conclusion of a takeover saga that began in late May, when Castlelake launched a series of approaches to acquire the airline.

As Travel Tomorrow reported at the time, easyJet rejected Castlelake’s initial offer, describing it as “highly opportunistic” and accusing the US investment company of attempting to acquire the airline “on the cheap”. The carrier argued that its share price had been temporarily depressed by geopolitical tensions affecting travel demand.

Castlelake subsequently improved its proposals and, in early July, reached an agreement in principle with easyJet before Apollo entered the process with a higher bid. Faced with Apollo’s superior offer, Castlelake ultimately chose not to pursue a bidding war.

Founder remains a major shareholder

Under the agreed transaction, easyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and his family, who own around 15% of the airline, will retain their investment.

“My family and I intend to remain invested as long-term major shareholders of easyJet for the next chapter in the company’s journey,” Sir Stelios said, adding that he supports Apollo’s plans to create further growth.

Shareholders will be able either to sell their shares or transfer part of their holdings into the new ownership structure, while Apollo will own no more than 49.9% of the airline.

To comply with European Union ownership rules governing airlines, an EU Trust will retain up to 5% of the shares, ensuring the carrier remains majority EU-owned. European legislation requires airlines operating within the bloc to remain under the effective ownership and control of EU nationals in order to preserve their traffic rights.

Apollo backs easyJet’s strategy

Apollo said it sees significant opportunities to accelerate easyJet’s commercial and operational ambitions while supporting the airline’s existing management team.

“easyJet is a leader in European aviation, having built a differentiated market position through its compelling customer proposition, expansive network and strong brand,” said Alex van Hoek, Apollo’s European private equity lead.

The investment firm added that it supports easyJet’s role in enhancing connectivity across Europe and the United Kingdom.

easyJet Chair Stephen Hester said the board had carefully assessed Apollo’s proposal against the airline’s prospects as an independent business.

“While we remain confident in the strength of our business and the opportunities ahead, we believe this offer appropriately recognises the quality of the business we have built and delivers immediate, certain and attractive value for shareholders,” he said.

Chief Executive Kenton Jarvis welcomed Apollo’s commitment to the airline and its workforce.

“We welcome Apollo’s commitment to our business and our people, and believe that its experience in the aviation sector makes it a strong partner for easyJet as we accelerate our growth plans and continue to deliver great value and service for our customers,” he said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by easyJet (@easyjet)

One of Europe’s largest airlines

Founded in 1995, easyJet has grown into one of Europe’s leading low-cost carriers, employing more than 19,000 people and operating around 1,200 routes across 35 European countries.

The airline has increasingly diversified beyond low-cost flights in recent years through the expansion of easyJet Holidays while continuing to invest in fleet renewal and sustainability initiatives.

Although Apollo has indicated there will be no immediate operational changes, the acquisition still requires approval from shareholders, competition authorities and aviation regulators. The proposed ownership structure has been designed to ensure compliance with EU foreign ownership rules before the transaction is expected to complete by the end of March 2027.

L’article easyJet agrees €6.6bn takeover by Apollo after rival bidder withdraws est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

ETIAS will bring a United States-style pre-screening approach to border security. It will see non-EU nationals who benefit from visa waivers for the Schengen Area being required to apply for pre-authorisation to travel.

Applications will take place online and will entail would-be visitors to Europe inputting their personal details, travel history, and criminal record, as well as paying a €20 processing fee. Once granted, the authorisation will be valid for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

@_perlaceron Heads up if Europe is on your 2026 or 2027 travel list ETIAS is coming…it’s NOT a visa, it’s a quick online authorization that every American will need before boarding a flight to France, Italy, Spain, Greece and 30+ other countries. Drop where you’re headed in Europe and tell me…did you already know about this?! #etias #europetravel #traveltips #travelalert #travelnews ♬ original sound – Perla Ceron | Travel Advisor

But with ETIAS due to start in late 2026 after several delays already, EU officials are reportedly becoming increasingly concerned about the system’s implementation. While the bloc continues to maintain that the last quarter of the year is still the target, eu-LISA, the agency responsible for the Etias rollout, no longer believes that timetable is achievable, according to three unnamed insiders who spoke to the Financial Times.

Part of the problem is software development, with the system still not fully functional. Adding to that is the shaky start to the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which came online on 10 April 2026 and is a building block for ETIAS.

The EES requires third-country nationals visiting the EU to register their personal data, including biometrics, which are stored for up to three years to allow the region to better track immigration arrivals and departures. But its rollout has caused widespread travel disruption, with chronic airport queues and port delays experienced across the EU, while some countries have unilaterally suspended its implementation and various stakeholder groups have warned of catastrophic financial losses.

Against that EES backdrop, and with officials estimating that resolving the disruption could take two years, the arrival of Etias on time by the end of 2026 is looking more and more unlikely. Discussions about postponing the rollout reportedly took place in June, with a review set for September, the FT‘s sources said.

For now, though, eu-LISA is toeing the bloc’s line, telling reporters that “at this moment, the proposed entry into operation remains Q4 2026. Preparations for the launch of Etias are ongoing, in close cooperation between the European Commission, eu-LISA and Member States.”

Nonetheless, at the same time, it hinted at possible changes to the schedule to come, adding: “The exact date for the entry into operation of Etias will be proposed by the European Commission, following consultation with eu-LISA and Member States.”

L’article EU’s ETIAS travel authorisation system could be delayed beyond 2026 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The Parliament voted on Tuesday to approve changes to EU air passenger rights legislation following years of negotiations with member states. The agreement was backed by 646 members of the European Parliament, with 12 voting against and three abstaining, according to reports on the vote.

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, said the agreement “will strengthen the rights of air passengers across Europe” and “bring greater transparency and predictability for both consumers and airlines, without creating unnecessary bureaucracy for our industry. Parliament fought hard to make travel fairer and procedures clearer, and this is what we have delivered.”

Under the revised rules, passengers will continue to be entitled to compensation when a flight is delayed by at least three hours, cancelled less than 14 days before departure, or when boarding is denied. Compensation will remain linked to flight distance, with payments of €250 for flights up to 1,500 km, €400 for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, and €600 for longer journeys.

Airlines may avoid compensation where disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances outside their control, such as severe weather, natural disasters, war, unruly passengers or certain strikes affecting airport, air navigation or groundhandling services.

The update also addresses baggage and ticket-price transparency. Passengers will have the right to bring one personal item on board without an additional fee, while airlines, intermediaries and search portals will have to display fares that include carry-on luggage at the start of the booking process. Airlines may still offer lower fares to travellers who voluntarily choose to fly without hand luggage.

European Parliament achieves upgrade to air passenger rights:
Securing existing compensation after 3h delay
Clearer procedure for compensation claims
Price transparency and comparability of air tickets
More https://t.co/z9rJoeOK3v pic.twitter.com/jpZ0SbhzBu

— TRAN Committee Press (@EP_Transport) July 7, 2026

For travellers affected by delays or cancellations, airlines will be required to provide electronic information on how to claim compensation within four days of the end of the journey. Passengers will have nine months to submit a compensation request, and airlines will have 30 days to pay or explain why compensation is not due. The rules state that passengers should not be required to create a user account or use a specific app to receive this information.

The agreement includes additional protections for families and passengers with reduced mobility. Airlines will have to seat children under 14 next to an accompanying adult without an extra fee. Similar adjacent seating rights will apply to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility and to pregnant passengers. Passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility will also have rights to compensation, rerouting and assistance if they miss a flight because airport assistance failed to get them to the gate on time.

Airlines will also be prohibited from charging extra fees for correcting spelling errors in passenger names or for providing a printed boarding pass when a passenger has already checked in. Passengers will have the right to receive a digital boarding pass at check-in without having to request it separately or use a specific app.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, welcomed the vote, describing the agreement as “the first major reform of EU air passenger rights in more than two decades”. He said the new rules strengthen the rights of passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility, make it easier to claim compensation, ensure parents can sit next to their young children at no extra cost, increase transparency on fees and pricing, and put an end to unfair “no-show” practices.

He added that the agreement demonstrates what can be achieved when the European Commission, the European Parliament and the member states work together after years of negotiations to modernise the EU’s air passenger rights framework.

L’article European Parliament approves updated air passenger rights covering cabin luggage and delay compensation est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Desk, oscillating and cordless fans

Traditional fans remain one of the simplest and most affordable ways to cool down. Desk fans are ideal for smaller hotel rooms or holiday rentals, while oscillating fans move from side to side to distribute air across a wider area. Cordless models add extra flexibility, allowing users to move them between rooms, balconies or even campsites without relying on a nearby power socket. Air circulation fans also help keep air moving throughout a room, creating a more comfortable environment even though they do not actually lower the room’s temperature.

Misting fans

Misting fans are becoming increasingly popular because they cool more effectively than standard fans. In addition to blowing air, they release an ultra-fine mist made up of tiny water droplets that evaporate almost immediately. This process helps lower the surrounding temperature without leaving furniture or clothing damp. One example is Dreo’s TurboCool range, which is available in both desktop and tower models and is designed to provide extra cooling during particularly hot weather.

@kateshoptiktok 30+ Degrees NEEDS this fan @Shark Home UK #SharkMistingFan #SharkFlexBreeze #MistingFan #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt #SummerSale ♬ Take My Mind – WizTheMc & bees & honey

Handheld and neck fans

Portable fans remain a favourite among travellers because they are lightweight and easy to carry throughout the day. Some newer models, such as Dyson’s HushJet Mini, replace traditional spinning blades with specially designed airflow systems that create a concentrated stream of air while operating more quietly. Many handheld fans can also be placed on a desk or worn around the neck using a lanyard, making them useful while travelling by train, exploring a city or working remotely.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Abhimanyu & Aanchal (@the.viral.verdict)

Neck fans have also become increasingly common during heatwaves. These devices rest comfortably around the neck and direct airflow towards the face and upper body while leaving both hands free. Cooling the neck is particularly effective because major blood vessels are located close to the skin in this area, helping the body feel cooler more quickly. Models such as the JisuLife Neck Fan offer multiple speed settings and batteries that can last for many hours, making them suitable for long sightseeing days or outdoor activities.

Wearable air conditioners

One of the newest developments in personal cooling is the wearable air conditioner. Unlike a fan, these devices do not blow air directly onto the user. Sony’s Reon Pocket Pro sits underneath clothing at the back of the neck and uses a metal cooling plate to cool the body directly. Built-in sensors monitor movement, humidity and the surrounding temperature before automatically adjusting the cooling level, creating a personalised cooling experience throughout the day.

Portable air coolers and air conditioners

Travellers staying in accommodation without built-in air conditioning may also benefit from portable cooling systems. Air coolers use water to cool the air before circulating it through a room, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning. Portable air conditioners actively remove heat from a room, making them a better option during prolonged periods of extreme heat. The right choice often depends on the size of the room, the outside temperature and the amount of cooling required.

@manasdxyavu Portable Air Conditioner 10000 BTU#PortableAirConditioner#SummerWins#summervibes#WindowAC #dealsforyoudays ♬ 原創音樂 – Baosucai

Cooling accessories

Not every cooling solution requires electricity. Cooling towels, reusable gel packs and cooling gloves can provide quick relief after spending time outdoors, while cooling face masks and even ice slippers have also become available for people looking for extra comfort during heatwaves. Most of these products are lightweight, relatively inexpensive and easy to pack into a suitcase or backpack. They can be particularly useful after walking through hot city streets or waiting in the sun for public transport.

Cooling products for better sleep

High daytime temperatures are often followed by warm nights, making it difficult to get enough rest. Cooling blankets and cooling pillowcases use fabrics that remain cooler against the skin, helping people sleep more comfortably without relying entirely on air conditioning. These products can be especially useful in hotels, holiday rentals or campsites where cooling systems are limited or unavailable. A better night’s sleep can also help the body recover after spending long days outdoors in extreme heat.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Ice Blanket (@iceblankets)

Cooling products for pets

Travelling with pets during a heatwave requires extra care, as animals can overheat just as easily as people. Cooling mats, cooling coats and specially designed cooling beds help dogs and other pets regulate their body temperature while resting or travelling. These products should always be used alongside access to fresh drinking water, shaded areas and regular breaks away from the heat. For anyone planning a road trip or summer holiday with their pet, they can provide an extra level of comfort during periods of extreme temperatures.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @catmurgel

As heatwaves become more frequent across Europe, these products are likely to become increasingly common travel companions. Although they cannot replace basic precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing sun protection and avoiding the hottest hours of the day, they can help make long sightseeing days, train journeys and evenings in accommodation without air conditioning a little more comfortable.

L’article Europe’s heatwave: What gadgets can help travellers stay cool est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.