All articles tagged with #tourism industry
Originally Published 4 months ago — by Forbes
The US has introduced new visa interview requirements and a $250 visa fee, exacerbating long wait times and deterring international tourists, which could lead to a significant decline in tourism revenue and economic impact in 2025.
Originally Published 7 months ago — by Financial Times
US travel demand is declining as consumers cut back on vacations and last-minute bookings, driven by economic uncertainty, inflation fears, and political tensions, particularly affecting lower-income households and the tourism industry.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by ABC News
The reopening of West Maui for tourism just two months after devastating wildfires has sparked outrage among residents who are still struggling to recover. The debate over Hawaii's reliance on tourism has been reignited, with some residents linking tourism to issues such as lack of access to clean water, the housing crisis, and pollution. Hawaii's historical shift to a tourism-based economy can be traced back to the decline of the Native Hawaiian population, the rise of sugar production, and the impact of World War II. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the effects of "overtourism" on the environment and quality of life in Hawaii. The state is also facing challenges such as a housing crisis and water scarcity. Some residents are calling for diversification of the economy and the return of land to the Native Hawaiian population.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Reuters
Chinese tourists arriving in Bangkok were given a VIP welcome as Thailand waived visas for Chinese nationals in an effort to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors, who were treated to traditional performances and photo opportunities. Tourism is a crucial driver of Thailand's economy, and the visa waiver aims to revive the industry that was severely impacted by the pandemic. The government expects 2.88 million Chinese visitors during the five-month visa waiver period, hoping to offset the decline in Chinese tourists due to their own economic challenges.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by South China Morning Post
Thailand has rolled out the red carpet for Chinese tourists as it implemented a visa-waiver scheme to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors from China, who arrived in Bangkok. The visa waiver aims to revive the tourism sector, which was severely impacted by the pandemic. Thailand expects to welcome 2.88 million Chinese tourists during the five-month period of the scheme. China was previously Thailand's largest source of tourists, and the visa waiver is expected to make it simpler for Chinese visitors to enter the country.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Reuters
China has lifted pandemic-era restrictions on group tours for countries including the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, potentially benefiting their tourism industries. Mainland Chinese tourists were the biggest spenders when traveling abroad before the pandemic, and their absence has caused financial difficulties for tourism-dependent businesses worldwide. Germany and Britain were also included in the list, while Canada was not reinstated. The move was welcomed by leaders in Japan, South Korea, and Australia, but the extent of outbound Chinese tourism remains uncertain due to factors such as limited international flights, slow visa issuance, and a sluggish domestic economy.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by NDTV
The US is struggling to recover its international tourism industry, with arrivals and spending still significantly below pre-pandemic levels. Visa processing delays, high hotel rates, and customs and TSA wait times are among the obstacles discouraging travelers from visiting the US. Meanwhile, rival destinations like Canada, the UK, and the EU are aggressively soliciting tourism and making themselves more accessible. The US travel industry is not expected to recover until 2025, resulting in billions of dollars of lost spending and jobs. Politics and concerns about safety are also impacting decisions to book events and conferences in the US.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC News
Taylor Swift's blockbuster Eras Tour is credited with boosting hotel revenues and fueling the national tourism industry, according to the Federal Reserve. The Philadelphia Federal Reserve reported that hotel bookings in the city saw the strongest growth since the pandemic began, largely due to an influx of guests attending Swift's concerts. This is not the first time Swift has been credited with boosting local business, as officials in Cincinnati and Chicago have also recognized her impact on hotel occupancy and economic growth. The Eras Tour has already grossed over $300 million and is projected to reach the $1 billion mark next year.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by WGN TV Chicago
Illinois has achieved its highest ever hotel revenue numbers in the most recent fiscal year, with 111 million visitors spending over $44 billion in the state. Governor JB Pritzker announced the record-breaking milestone, highlighting the booming tourism industry. The Taylor Swift concert at Soldier Field contributed to breaking Chicago's all-time hotel occupancy record during that weekend.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Reuters
European tourism industry is facing disappointment as Chinese tourists, who typically spend between 1,500 and 3,000 euros per person, are staying closer to home due to visa restrictions, long passport wait lines, and limited airline tickets to Europe. Chinese outbound flight bookings to Europe during March and August are only 32% that of pre-pandemic levels. The industry is now looking to American tourists, who are coming to Europe in droves, to make up the shortfall.