Category Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators

The doors have officially opened today (13 April) on World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2026, marking the start of a three-day showcase running until 15 April at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Bringing together thousands of travel professionals from across the globe, this year’s edition is being hailed as the event’s most ambitious programme to date—combining innovation, sustainability, and high-level networking opportunities.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially opened the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Running until 15 April, the five-day event brings together cultural heritage, live entertainment and water celebrations at one of Thailand’s largest Songkran gatherings.
The opening ceremony on 11 April was attended by Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside senior representatives from the public and private sectors.

Scotland has arrived in New York this week, with specially wrapped tartan taxis taking to the streets of Manhattan as part of NYC Tartan Week. The activity forms part of VisitScotland’s work to promote Scotland in its largest international market, using NYC Tartan Week to inspire US audiences to plan a trip.

In a town built on storytelling, Key West has found a new way to carry one of its most iconic legacies forward. Just a Few Friends Key West, taking place September 3–7, 2026, has quickly evolved from a local grassroots tribute into a national pilgrimage for those drawn to the lifestyle Jimmy Buffett made famous. More than a festival, the five-day Labor Day weekend celebrating the life, legacy, and lore of Key West’s favorite son transforms the entire island into a stage, featuring free performances by CMA winners, Grammy-nominated songwriters, and legendary Coral Reefers.

Catalonia strengthens its position as a global cycling destination with the launch of the Grand Tour Catalunya Gravel, a comprehensive 2,500 km journey across 42 stages, designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary heritage through five sections:

Amid evolving global economic conditions, South Korea is exploring a distinctive approach to economic stimulus – one that goes beyond traditional fiscal or monetary measures, and instead focuses on mobilizing consumption.
At the center of this approach is the Donghaeng Festival (K-Shopping Festa or 동행축제 in Korean), a nationwide initiative led by Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups, literally meaning a “shared journey” or collective participation.

Today, the European Commission launches the 2027 edition of the European Capitals of Tourism competition1. Tourism destinations across Europe are invited to submit their innovative practices in smart and sustainable tourism and position themselves as leading examples in European tourism. As one of the EU’s largest economic sectors, tourism plays a key role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative recognises cities implementing innovative solutions, including digitalisation, accessibility, sustainability and support to cultural heritage, creativity and local talent.

Today, the European Commission launches the 2027 edition of the European Capitals of Tourism competition1. Tourism destinations across Europe are invited to submit their innovative practices in smart and sustainable tourism and position themselves as leading examples in European tourism. As one of the EU’s largest economic sectors, tourism plays a key role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative recognises cities implementing innovative solutions, including digitalisation, accessibility, sustainability and support to cultural heritage, creativity and local talent.

Sandbox Festival returns to Egypt’s Red Sea coast this May 7-9, delivering three days of world-class electronic music against one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning backdrops. The festival’s 12th edition brings together Dixon, Bedouin, Floorplan, DJ Tennis, and Craig Richards alongside 50+ international artists across five meticulously designed stages in the luxury coastal town of El Gouna.

SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the World’s Largest Indoor Marine Life Theme Park, welcomes this year’s blossoming spring season with SeaBloom Celebration in its second edition, running until April 26. Guests can enjoy a new live show, marine life-themed sand art sculptures, stimulating educational challenges and exclusive meet and greets with SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s characters, making for a memorable experience.