Latest news with #UnitedNationsWorldTourismOrganization
Egypt Independent
18-07-2025
- Business
- Egypt Independent
Egypt ranks 10th globally in Q1 2025 tourism growth
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has released its latest report on the top-performing tourism destinations for the first quarter of 2025. Egypt secured the 10th position worldwide, boasting a 21 percent increase in tourist arrivals compared to 2024, outperforming countries like Lithuania, Palau, and South Korea. Morocco landed in ninth place with a 22 percent increase, while Paraguay topped the list with an astonishing 53 percent growth. The report highlighted a significant surge in tourism for South American countries. Paraguay led the way, followed by Brazil and Chile, both seeing a 48 percent increase. Gambia came in fourth with 46 percent growth. Asian nations also featured prominently, with Vietnam (30 percent) and Japan (23 percent) taking the sixth and seventh spots, respectively. Israel was listed in fifth place with a 31 percent increase. The report noted that its data relies on figures recorded up to May 2025, focusing on destinations that provided complete statistics for January and February. It also cautioned that some countries, including Israel, Palau, and Iran, still have tourist numbers below their 2019 levels. This could make their reported growth percentages appear high, potentially not reflecting a full recovery to pre-pandemic volumes. Global tourism registered a five percent growth in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by three percent. The number of international tourists is projected to reach 300 million by the end of Q1 2025, an increase of 14 million from the previous year. Africa achieved the highest growth rate at nine percent, followed by Asia and the Pacific with a 13 percent increase, despite not yet fully recovering its tourism capacity. The Americas, Europe, and the Middle East, meanwhile, recorded more modest growth rates ranging between one percent and three percent. Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges, experts anticipate continued strong demand for travel, with a projected growth in tourist numbers between three percent and five percent during 2025. International tourism revenues also reached a record two trillion dollars, representing a 15 percent increase over the pre-pandemic period. Egypt's performance remains commendable within this context, reflecting its continuous efforts to boost the tourism sector and attract more visitors to its unique civilizational treasures.
Newsweek
17-07-2025
- Newsweek
US Couple Realize Crucial Thing They Didn't Do As Take-Off on London Flight
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. An American couple faced a last-minute scramble to get into the United Kingdom after realizing—just moments before boarding a flight from Portugal to London—that they were missing a newly required travel document. The ordeal was captured in a TikTok video posted on July 4 by @mollyinbrooklyn, which has since garnered more than 583,000 views. Text overlaid on the viral video reads: "Just two American idiots who didn't know we needed the new U.K. visa to fly into applied before take-off, fingers-crossed we get approved before we go through customs!!!" The couple, who were on their way to London to attend a Lana Del Rey concert at Wembley Stadium, had no idea they needed an electronic travel authorization (ETA) until checking in for their flight from Portugal. "We were absolutely unaware we needed a visa," the TikToker told Newsweek. "I was just in London over New Year's and it wasn't in effect then." A screenshot from a viral TikTok video about an American couple who forgot to do a crucial thing before their flight to London in the United Kingdom. A screenshot from a viral TikTok video about an American couple who forgot to do a crucial thing before their flight to London in the United Kingdom. @mollyinbrooklyn on TikTok The incident highlights the importance of staying current on changing travel regulations—especially in a year when global tourism continues to rebound strongly. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, around 300 million tourists traveled internationally in the first quarter of 2025—14 million more than the same period in 2024. The new requirement, which took effect on January 8, mandates that all United States citizens traveling to the U.K. for short stays—including tourism, family visits, and business meetings—must apply for an ETA before arrival, notes the U.S. Department of State. Applications for the ETA opened on November 27, 2024. An ETA is not technically a visa, but it is a required clearance for most non-visa visitors from countries such as the U.S., Canada, Australia and several others. It costs £16 (approximately $21) and allows entry for up to six months for eligible activities. "An ETA does not guarantee entry to the U.K.," the U.K. government notes, and each traveler—including children—must have one. "We realized we needed it upon checking in at the gate for our flight," the TikToker explained. "We booked this flight through our credit card, so I assume that's why we never heard anything from the airline about needing it. Luckily, the attendant at the gate let us go through and told us to just apply before take-off." They were able to apply for the ETA using the U.K. ETA app and received approval within minutes. "It cost $21 per person and we didn't have to pay any extra fees," the wife said. "We had no issues going through customs in London." Do you have a travel-related video or story to share? Let us know via life@ and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Chhattisgarh: Solar lights illuminate Dhudmaras, recognized as Bastar's best tourism village
RAIPUR: Nestled within the Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, the small tribal village of Dhudmaras in Bastar district is now glowing — quite literally — with solar energy projects that have brightened its streets and lives. Dhudmaras has recently gained global recognition as one of the world's top 20 tourism villages, as designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization and is now solar-powered with streetlights and the village lanes. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant tribal culture, Dhudmaras has always attracted eco-conscious travellers in Bastar region. Now, with solar-powered streetlights lighting up the village's winding lanes and solar dual-pumps providing clean drinking water, Dhudmaras is setting a new benchmark for environmental conservation and self-reliance. The Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) has played a pivotal role in this transformation. By installing three solar dual pumps, the village now enjoys reliable access to pure drinking water. Two solar high-mast towers have been erected to ensure bright and safe lighting after dusk. Additionally, solar power streetlights have been installed throughout the village, and solar energy supply to primary and secondary schools ensures uninterrupted education facilities even in remote areas. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo CREDA's Chairman Bhupendra Savani and CEO Rajesh Rana have closely monitored these projects, ensuring that every installation meets quality standards and serves the community effectively. On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, awarded Dhudmaras and nearby Chitrakot village for excellence in sustainable rural tourism. The serene flow of the Kanger River, lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and the preservation of traditional Bastaria culture make Dhudmaras an irresistible destination for tourists. With Maoists pushed to the brink in past one and a half years, state govt is continuously improving infrastructure by developing trekking trails, camping sites, and homestay facilities. Local artisans and craftsmen are receiving encouragement to market their traditional crafts, boosting the rural economy. Roads and transport links are also being strengthened to improve accessibility. The village's Eco-Tourism Development Committee operates adventure activities such as kayaking and bamboo rafting on the Kanger River, creating livelihood opportunities for local youth. Basic tourist amenities, including waiting areas and toilets, have been developed at the grassroots level to enhance visitor experience.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Solar lights illuminate Dhudmaras, recognized as Bastar's best tourism village
Raipur: Nestled within the Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, the small tribal village of Dhudmaras in Bastar district is now glowing — quite literally — with solar energy projects that have brightened its streets and lives. Dhudmaras has recently gained global recognition as one of the world's top 20 tourism villages, as designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization and is now solar-powered with streetlights and the village lanes. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant tribal culture, Dhudmaras has always attracted eco-conscious travellers in Bastar region. Now, with solar-powered streetlights lighting up the village's winding lanes and solar dual-pumps providing clean drinking water, Dhudmaras is setting a new benchmark for environmental conservation and self-reliance. The Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) has played a pivotal role in this transformation. By installing three solar dual pumps, the village now enjoys reliable access to pure drinking water. Two solar high-mast towers have been erected to ensure bright and safe lighting after dusk. Additionally, solar power streetlights have been installed throughout the village, and solar energy supply to primary and secondary schools ensures uninterrupted education facilities even in remote areas. CREDA's chairman Bhupendra Savani and CEO Rajesh Rana have closely monitored these projects, ensuring that every installation meets quality standards and serves the community effectively. On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the ministry of tourism, govt of India, awarded Dhudmaras and nearby Chitrakot village for excellence in sustainable rural tourism. The serene flow of the Kanger river, lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and the preservation of traditional Bastaria culture make Dhudmaras an irresistible destination for tourists. With Maoists pushed to the brink in past one and a half years, state govt is continuously improving infrastructure by developing trekking trails, camping sites, and homestay facilities. Local artisans and craftsmen are receiving encouragement to market their traditional crafts, boosting the rural economy. Roads and transport links are also being strengthened to improve accessibility. The village's eco-tourism development committee operates adventure activities such as kayaking and bamboo rafting on the Kanger river, creating livelihood opportunities for local youth. Basic tourist amenities, including waiting areas and toilets, have been developed at the grassroots level to enhance visitor experience.
Hindustan Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Solar power illuminates Chhattisgarh's 'best tourism village' Dhudmaras
Raipur, Dhudmaras, a remote village in Chhattisgarh which found a place on the world tourism map last year, is now shining bright with the help of solar power, officials said on Thursday. Solar power illuminates Chhattisgarh's 'best tourism village' Dhudmaras The United Nations World Tourism Organization last year included Dhudmaras among the selected 20 villages of the world for development in terms of tourism. Blessed with natural beauty, cultural richness and traditional tribal life, Dhudmaras, located in the Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district, about 350 km from capital Raipur, attracts tourists for its exciting adventure activities. The Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency has successfully executed a number of solar projects in Dhudmaras recently, CREDA Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Rana said. The projects include the installation of three solar dual pumps to ensure access to clean drinking water, two solar high-mast lights and solar-powered street lights throughout the village. Both primary and secondary schools have also been equipped with reliable solar electricity, enabling better learning environments, he said. According to local officials, this remote village has access to electricity lines but the power connection was limited to a few houses and the power supply was uneven and inadequate. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, solar energy projects have been implemented across Bastar region, bringing tangible improvements to the lives of residents and the local tourism infrastructure, an official statement said. CREDA Chairman Bhupendra Savanni and CEO Rajesh Rana have been monitoring the implementation of these initiatives to ensure high-quality execution and long-term impact, it said. Last year, on World Tourism Day, the Union Ministry of Tourism awarded Dhudmaras and Chitrakote villages in Bastar district as the best tourism villages in Bastar. With its lush greenery, rich biodiversity, the scenic Kanger river, and the vibrant Bastaria tribal culture, Dhudmaras is fast becoming a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists, the release said. Under the state government's eco-tourism vision, trekking trails, camping sites and homestay facilities are being developed around Dhudmaras. Traditional artisans and performers are being supported to promote and market local handicrafts, while roads and transport infrastructure are being strengthened, it said. Adventure tourism is also on the rise, with the Eco-Tourism Development Committee in Dhudmaras organising kayaking and bamboo rafting on the Kanger river, providing livelihood opportunities for local youth. Basic amenities like waiting areas and public toilets are being set up at the community level, enhancing the overall tourist experience, the release said. The state's forest and tourism departments have been working systematically to develop Dhudmaras as a flagship eco-tourism destination. Inspired by its success, similar initiatives are being promoted in other villages like Nagalsar and Netanar. "Dhudmaras is a living proof that with government support and community participation, economic, social, and cultural transformation is possible even in remote rural areas," the release said. It now stands as a model village and source of inspiration for the entire Bastar region, the release added. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
