Egypt | Iconic National Dish Koshary Added to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Egypt’s iconic, beloved national dish Koshary, a hearty mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions combined with a spicy tomato - vinegar sauce, was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2025 in an event wihch took place in New Delhi, India, marking the first Egyptian dish to receive this global recognition for its cultural significance, tradition, and role in daily life.

 The Koshary represents a symbol of the North African country’s popular identity and traditions, a sort of gastronomic icon with a history highly captivating. 

This delicious fusion, evolving in 19th century Egypt from the Indian “khicdi”, a dish consisting in lentils and rice cooked together, introduced by British colonial soldiers, Italian pasta, brought by Italian merchants and immigrants living in the country, and Egyptian cooks combined these elements with local ingredients like chickpea and onions, creating a hearty, inexpensive meal for the working class.

The quintessential Mediterranean and Egyptian touch came with the addition of a spicy tomato and tangy garlic - vinegar sauce, transforming it into the Koshary known today.

From street food stalls, the Koshary quickly spread and became a staple in homes and restaurants,   across Egypt, beloved for its affordability and nourishment, and elevating itself as a true testament to Egypt multicultural past.

 While modern Koshary is a colonial - era blend, some historians point to ancient Egyptian traditions of combining lentils, wheat, and onions, a dish called “koshir”, suggesting deep, though different roots for grain and legume dishes in Egypt.

 In late 2025, Koshary received UNESCO recognition as intangible cultural heritage, solidifying its place as a cultural treasure.

 The recognition emphasizes the importance of street food also able to enter in the Egyptian homes as a vital cultural expression, which united people, and is passed down from generation to generation, according to Sada - El Balad, news website and satellite television channel headquartered in Giza.

 During the event held in December in New Delhi, UNESCO evaluated 68 new nominations for inclusion in the list of intangible cultural heritage, covering dishes, music, and festivals from various culture around the world.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/plato-egipcio-entra-en-la-lista-de-patrimonio-cultural-inmaterial-de-la-unesco/

Belarus | Significantly Expanding its Network of EV Charging Stations by 2026

Belarus is significantly expanding its electric vehicle (EV) charging network, aiming to add over 330 new stations into operations throughout this year, with a strong focus on high - speed infrastructure and domestic production. Driven by a surge in Chinese EV imports and state - sipported incentives, the network expansion is designed to make regional travel more accessible.  

Around 200 of them will be ulra - fast charging network complexes to be installed in Brest, Mogilev and Vitebsk, as well as on the country’s main motorways. 

According to BelTA news agency, by the end of 2026, the national charging is expected to reach 1.300 stations compared to the 975 currently operational. 

The development of the infrastructure is driven by a state program aimed at modernizing the charging system and creating favourable conditions for the expansion of electric transport. 

Over the past two years, the increase in EV imports from China has accelerated the adaptation of stations to the connectors of the Chinese GB/T standard, while all new installations also incorporate the European CCS standard, ensuring broad compatibility. 

Currently, the unified management system integrates stations from more than 40 operators. The state operator Belarusneft , plans to bring then notal network to at least 1.300, and potentially up to 2.000, charging stations.

 The expansion of the network contributes to the growth of the market, offers greater convenience to users and reinforces confidence in the availability of infrastructure, and in the capital of the country, Minsk, the demand for charging continues to exceed the supply. 

Key Features of the 2026 Expansion: 

•    Significant Network Growth: The state operator Belarusneft (Malanka brand) , plans to bring then notal network to at least 1.300, and potentially up to 2.000, charging stations. Over 330 new charging stations are expected to appear in 2026 alone. 
•    Focus on Super - Fast Charging: Approximately 200 of the new planned stations will be “ultra - fast” chargers, specifically deployed in major cities such as Brest, Mogilev, Vitebsk, and along main highways like M1, M5, and M6. 
•    Domestic Production and Technology: In 2025, Belorusneft launched its own production of charging stations via “Belorusneft – Promservice”. The new, locally produced stations are equipped with software developed in Belarus.  
•    Standardization (GB/T + CCS): To accommodate the high volume of Chinese electric vehicles entering in the market, new stations are equipped with both Chinese (GB/T) and European (CCS) connectors, improving accessibility. 
•    Supportive Infrastructure: The Belarusan government has extended zero customs duties for EVs and, as of late 2025, made incentives for the installation and maintenance of charging stations permanent. 
 •    Expansion of Operators: Beltelecom has been designated as a second operator focus on building nd maintaining a network of slower charging stations (up to 44 kW). 

Following 2026, the long – term goal is to further expand the network to support a projected 300.000 electric vehicles by 2030. If this, or a similar, high growth rate continuous, the network may expand to 8.000 – 10.000 stations, say company forecasts. 

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/bielorrusia-ampliar-su-red-de-estaciones-de-carga-para-veh-culos-el-ctricos-en-2026/

Bulgaria | UN Tourism Highlights the Country as a Strategic Destination for European Tourism

UN Tourism, the United Nations World Tourism based in Madrid, Spain, a specialized agency of the United Nations which promotes responsible, sustainable and universally - accessible tourism highlights Bulgaria as a strategic destination for European tourism. 

The diverse, year - round tourism (beach, ski, wellness, culture) supported by EU stability, a flat 10% corporate tax, streamlined investment processes attracting major hotel chains, experiencing record visitor numbers in 2024, affordability in comparison with other destinations in the region, signalling strong potential for sustainable growth beyond mass tourism are some of the factors of Bulgaria’s success in the tourism landscape. 

UN Tourism has published new investment guidelines that position Bulgaria as one of the most promising markets for European tourism, at a time marked by a new cycle of investment in the country.

In a scenario driven by full integration into the European Union, solid performance of the tourism and a diverse and competitive asset base compared to other destinations in the region, these advantages were inserted in a framework and officially presented by the Bulgarian Minister of Tourism, Miroslav Botshos, during an official visit to the UN Tourism headquarters in Madrid. 

The document, called “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Bulgaria”, a comprehensive set of guidelines of the opportunities available to investors in the country’s tourism sector, and provides potential investors, essential data and analysis on investment opportunities, regulations, and processes. 

Presenting the guidelines in the meeting, UN Tourism Secretary - General Shaikha Al Nuwais stated that Bulgaria stands out for the enormous diversity of its tourism sector, the country demonstrates a commitment to transparency and competitiveness, supported by a stable framework and strong European integration. 

According to the organization, Bulgaria is not only open to investment, but has also built a system that reduces the complexity of permits, decreases project risks and improve predictability of return on investment. 

In addition Bulgaria has established itself as a year - round destination, with several attractions, including sun and beach tourism, with 25 Blue Flag beaches, a winter destination and a leader in both wellness and cultural and heritage tourism, with 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The main points of the publication show that Bulgaria received a record number of 13.3 million international visitors in 2024, exceeding 2019 levels by 5.6%, the country is witnessing a boom in domestic tourism, as spending reached €1.14 billion in 2024, an increase of 89% compared to 2019, while international revenues from tourism totalled $4.3 billion in 2024, and the unward trajectory continued in 2025.  

UN Tourism also hiighlights that major brands are investing more and more: Accor, Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Meliá, Radisson, both through rebranding and new developments are actively working in Albena, Burgas, Obzor, Plovdiv and Sofia. In addition, projects in the planning stages, such as the Marriott I Tower, and the expected entry of luxury brand such as Nobu Hospitality LLC reinforce Bulgaria’s position as a rising market.

Key Features and Strengths: 

•    Diverse Offerings: Combines sun & beach (Blue Flag beaches) , winter sports, rich cultural heritage (10 UNESCO sites), nature, and wellness tourism. 
•    Strategic Location and Stability: Connects Western Europe, Balkans, and Black Sea; offers EU membership benefits, a stable fiscal framework, and a flat 10% corporate tax. 
•    Investment Appeal: Reduced red tape, predictable returns, and de – risked projects attract global hotel groups. 
•    Strong Performance: Record 13.3 million international visitors in 2024, exceeding pre - pandemic levels, with rising receipts, continuing with high performances in 2025. 
•    Year - Round Potential: Strong focus on multi - season resorts and urban tourism in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna. 

Investment Opportunities Highlighted: 

•    Urban and business hotels. 
•    High - quality seaside properties.
•    Multi - season mountain resorts with summer activities. 
•    Sustainable projects focusing on innovation and long – term value. 

UN Tourism’ Role: 

•    Released “Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Bulgaria” guidelines. 
•    Promotes Bulgaria as an exciting destination with broad appeal and commitment to transparency.  

In essence Bulgaria’s tourism outlook is very positive, showing strong recovery, boosted by its joining the Schengen Area and Eurozone, which simplifies travel and attracts investment, with further expansion in 2026 through diverse offerings like culture, wellness, and city breaks, moving beyond just traditional sea and ski tourism, becoming a year - round destination and solidifying its status as a value - for - money, diverse European spot. 

Link 

https://www.publituris.pt/2026/01/16/onu-turismo-destaca-bulgaria-como-destino-estrategico-para-o-turismo-europeu

India | Strengthening Bilateral Scientific Cooperation with the UAE by Launching a Joint Research Mission to Antarctica

India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have strengthened a bilateral scientific cooperation by launching a joint research mission to Antarctica.

Researchers from the UAE have joined the 45th Indian Antarctic Expedition at the Maitri research station, India’s second permanent research station in Antarctica, established in 1989 in the rocky Schirmacher Oasing,  near a freshwater lake named Lake Priyadarshini.

The station focusing on geology, glaciology, atmospheric sciences, and biology is operated by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) under the Indian Antarctic Programme.

According to Asian News International (ANI) this collaboration signifies a new phase in bilateral scientific cooperation in polar and Earth system sciences, moving beyond existing partnerships in defense, energy, and general technology.

The joint team aims to conduct studies in Antarctica’s extreme natural environment, including landscapes comparable to conditions on Mars. The research aims to support advances in polar science, climate studies, and planetary research, with a focus on understanding how extreme environments evolve under severe weather conditions.

The participation of the Emirati scientists follows a formal agreement between  the two countries aimed at strengthening cooperation in polar and ocean research. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) provides a framework for joint scientific missions in both Antarctica and the Arctic, expanding data exchange, and collaborative research on climate change, polar ecosystems, and Earth system processes.

The initiative also reflects the UAE’s broader efforts to engage in international polar research, while reinforcing India’s long - standing role in Antarctic science. Researchers from both countries are expected to share their findings with the global scientific community, supporting international cooperation in addresing climate and environmental challenges.

Officials have described the Antarctic mission as a practical result of the growing strategic partnership between India and the UAE in science and technology. By working together in one of the world’s most challenging research environments, both countries seek to contribute to global efforts to better understand climate dynamics for the planet.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/india-y-los-emiratos-rabes-unidos-ampl-an-la-cooperaci-n-cient-fica-mediante-una-misi-n-conjunta-de-/

Tunisia | Golf Significantly Helps to Diversify the Country’s Tourism Offer

Golf tourism in Tunisia has been growing visibly and significantly help to diversity the North African country’s tourism offer. In 2025 alone, the number on the country’s courses grew by 24% compared to 2024, from around 67.000 to almost 83.000.

These figures were presented during an event chaired by Tunisian Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, Sofiene Tekaya, dedicated to monitoring the progress of the implementation of the golf tourism development program.

According to the Minister, quoted by the country’s press, these indicators also show that the spending of a golf tourist is four times higher than the average spending per tourists, which illustrates the economic importance of this sector, as well as the promising investment opportunity it offers.

During the working session, held in the presence of various players from different regions, as well as representatives of the various professional federations involved, it was decided to organize in the coming days, a national forum dedicated to golf tourism, presenting an action plan based on complementary between the public and private sectors. 

The aim is to remove obstacles to the sector, stimulate investment and strengthen Tunisia’s competitiveness as a tourist destination, aiming to create a real qualitative leap in golf tourism and make it a sustainable engine of support for the tourism sector and regional development. 

For the Minister, golf tourism is a strategic axis for the diversification of the national tourist offer, given its ability to guarantee stable demand throughout the year and to consolidate Tunisia’s position as a specialised and high - quality tourist destination. 

Golf significantly diversifies Tunisia’s tourism by offering year - round play in warm climate combining a sporting activity with cultural experiences, beaches, and luxury, attracting visitors beyond traditional sun - and - sand holidays.

Key hubs are Hammamet, a popular destination in the Nabeul Governorate located in the south - eastern section of Cape Bon peninsula, and Port El Kantaoui,  a purpose - built, stylish Tunisian resort north of Sousse developing modern infrastructure with renowned course designs. 

Features include Mediterranean coastal scenery, affordable green fees, proximity to hotels, and integration with thalassotherapy, creating a comprehensive, affordable, and accessible destination for European golfers seeking sunshine and relaxation, making golf a great product for the Tunisian tourism sector.

Key Features Driving Golf Tourism in Tunisia: 

•    Ideal Climate: Warm, sunny weather allows for - year - round play, with mild winters making it a strong winter sun destination. 
•    Quality Courses: Well - designed courses, some by renowned architects, integrated with olive groves and coastal views. 
•    Strategic Locations: Courses are clustered in popular tourist areas like Hammamet and Port El Kantoui, offering beaches and hotels nearby. 
•    Affordable Luxury: Reasonable green fees and packages deals, especially compared to established European golf destinations, offer great value. 
•    Integrated Tourism: Golf packages often combines with Tunisia’s flagship thalassotherapy (seawater treatments) and rich cultural heritage, notes www.golfandmore.com and golfshake.com. 
•    Accessibility: Increased direct flights from Europe and support from airlines (like free golf bag carriage on Tunisair) make travel easier, say Golfshake.com. 
•    Growing Market: Continued investment and promotion, including supporting professional tours, signal commitment to expanding golf tourism. 

How it diversifies: 

•    Extends Season: Attracts visitors outside peak summer months. 
•    Target New Demographics: Appeals to golfers seeking alternatives to traditional Spanish or Portuguese destinations. 
•    Adds Value: Enhances existing hotel and resort offerings with sport tourism. 
•    Showcase Culture: Blends natural beauty, history, and modern amenities for a rich experience.

In essence, Tunisia provides a compelling, budget - conscious golf holiday with beautiful courses, great weather, and cultural richness, attracting European golfers seeking an accessible winter escape and transforming itself in an important driver for the Tunisian tourism sector.

Link 
https://www.publituris.pt/2026/01/14/golfe-ajuda-a-diversificar-oferta-turistica-da-tunisia

Mandarin Oriental Group | Revealed the Future Opening of a New 131 - Room Resort in Calvià, Mallorca, Spain

Mandarin Oriental Group International Limited, a multinatational hospitality company founded in 1963 and based in Hong Kong, China, focusing on luxury hotels, residences and vacations properties, revealed it will open a new 131 - room resort in Calvià, a seaside town on the island of Mallorca, part of the Spanish autonomous community of the Balearic islands, located in the southwestern part of the island,  between the Serra de Tramuntana and the Serra de Na Burguesa.

Calvià is a very captivating destination offering diverse features including historic sites like Calvià Town, vibrant coastal resorts including Magaluf and Santa Ponsa, known for nightlife, numerous Blue Flag beaches, and natural beauty with access to the Tramuntana mountains for hiking, plus many theme parks like Katmandu Park and Western Park as well as luxury marinas like Puerto Portals, a destination for family - friendly activities, water sports, with a growing focus on luxury tourism, making it ideal for varied experiences from relaxation to adventure.

The new hotel, Mandarin Punta Negra will be the brand’s first hotel on the island and is scheduled to open in spring 2026.

The development is near Port Portal, a glamorous, prestigious marina known for the presence of luxury superyachts, a hub with over 600 moorings, top - tier nautical services, designer shopping, and fine dining, attracting the wealthy and famous, with features including high - end boutiques, numerous fine restaurants and trendy bars, exclusive real estate, sailing schools, and adjacent beaches like Platja de l’ Oratori,  all creating a vibrant scene. 

The property framed by Aleppo pines and the dramatic coastaline, offering unique Mediterranean  views will feature 131 comfortable guestrooms and suites, including 26 suites, nine casitas (comprising four suites and five rooms), 19 rooms and suites with plunge pools, and three rooftop suites with private pools. 

Dining options at the Mandarin Punta Negra will include several  bars and restaurants. Confirmed venues are Matsuhisa, offering Nikkei - style cuisine; Leña by Dani García, focused on steakhouse fare; Jacinta, serving Mexican dishes; Leppoc, specializes in Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine; Sobretaula, an alfresco tapas restaurant; and Aubara, a poolside dining venue.

The property will also feature a wellness facility with nine treatment cabins, couple’s suites, a relaxation room, and a range of treatments incorporating local and Oriental practices.

Additional amenities will include two outdoor pools for adults, an outdoor children’s pool , an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and heat and water facilities, including a hydro - massage pool, steam rooms, cold plunges, and aromatherapy showers.

Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra will incorporate local materials and design elements inspired by Mallorca’s landscape and traditions and will also display works by local and international artists in both rooms and public areas.

Links 

https://press.mandarinoriental.com/mallorca-debut-in-spring-2026

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139557.html

LivAway Suites | Opened a New Extended - Stay Hotel in Tolleson, Arizona, U.S.

LivAway Suites, an economy - stay company headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah,  which offers simple, affordable and modern suites for cost - conscious travellers and developers, aiming to disrupt the traditional hotel franchise with a transparent, developer - centric approach has opened a new extended - stay hotel in Tolleson, a city in Maricopa, County, Arizona, a lively centre  that offers a tight - knight community feel, rich cultural heritage, and unbeatable access to metro Phoenix via I - 10.

The property is the company’s first in Arizona and brings its total number of operating hotels nationwide to 10. LivAway Suites’ expansion in the state is part of a national strategy to develop multiple assets in selected markets. The company reports that it maintains a vertically integrated development and operating model to support its growth plans. 

Located at 1225 N91st Avenue, approximately 20 minutes west of downtown Phoenix, the strategic location provide an easy access to major employment centres and local attractions in the greater Phoenix area, including the Phoenix Art Museum, Encanto Park, and Estrella Mountain Regional Park.

The establishment is designed for longer - term stays and includes suites with in - room kitchens, full - size appliances, high - speed Wi - Fi and smart TVs. On - sites amenities include a fitness centre, laundry facilities, and an automated parcel locker system.

LivAway Suites’ approach involves establishing multiple properties in high - growth markets and the Tolleson hotel is part of a broader expansion strategy in Arizona, with five locations either open or under construction across the state with recent developments include a groundbreaking in Mesa and additional projects in the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan area.

With the Tolleson opening, LivAway Suites is expanding its national presence, and now has 22 hotels either open or in development across the United States.

The company plans to begin construction of 12 additional locations over the next year. The upcoming expansion will introduce the brand to new markets, including Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, Oregon, and South Carolina, and will further growth in existing states.

Links

https://www.livawaysuites.com/locations/az/phoenix/tolleson

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139521.html