Paris, France | Louvre Museum Announced to Raise Ticket Price by 45% for Most Non - EU Visitors

The Louvre Museum, an iconic national art museum in Paris, France, the most visited museum in the world, located on the Right Bank of the Seine in the city’s 1st arrondissement, home to some of the most canonical works of western art has announced to rise ticket price by 45% for most non - EU visitors from 14th January 2026.

The move will increase the cost of tickets for visitors from countries including China, the UK and the United States from €22 to €32, while EU residents and those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, countries which are part of the trade agreement with the European Union known as the the European Economic Area, will pay the current price.

With this increase  the museum hopes will boost in revenue by around  €17.5 million annually. This hike aims to fund security improvements and essential repairs, particularly after the October 2025 heist, and is part of a larger modernization plan.

The Louvre is in search of funds to finance a €1.1 billion upgrade, €450 million of which would be earmarked for urgently needed maintenance and the restoration of basic infrastructure. 

The Louvre previously increased its ticket prices by 30% in 2024, ahead of the Olympic Games, but has since faced a series of hefty budget cuts, including the loss of 7% of its public subsidies. These subsidies, which in 2015 amounted to half of the Louvre’s budget, now represent only a quarter of it.

In 2026 the culture ministry is set to lose another €216 million from its budget, with funds for museum and cultural heritage it particularly hard by a loss of €58 million.

The increase, rejected by the unions is part of a government process to relaunch the instution once a royal residence, advanced by President Emmanuel Macron and the Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati.

Staff unions have denounced the project as an unprecedented challenge to the universal mission of the museum since its birth in 1793.

Other initiatives encouraged by the French culture Minister Rachida Dati apart the Louvre Museum include four other national museums and monuments announced new entrty prices for non - EU visitors: 

 · The Château de Versailles: The iconic former royal residence commissioned by King Louis XIV located in Versailles, about 18 kilometres west of the city of Paris will charge €35 during the high season to €25 in the low season.

·  The Château de Chambord: The largest château in the Loire Valley, built to serve as a hunting lodge for Francis I, highlighted by its very distinctive French Renaissance architecture will raise is tickets from €19 to €29.

·  The Saint - Chapelle and the Opéra Garnier: The Sainte - Chapelle, emblematic royal chapel within the medieval Palais de la Cité, the residence of the Kings of France until the 14th century and the Opéra Garnier, a historic 1.979 - seat opera house at the Place de l’ Opéra in the 9^th arrondissement of Paris will also have an increase concerning  entrance prices.

Link

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2025/11/28/louvre-to-raise-ticket-prices-by-45-for-most-non-eu-visitors

Haikou, China | CITM - China International Travel Mart - International Trade Fair for the Tourist Market - From 19th to 21st December 2025

Haikou, a bustling port city and the capital of China’s island province Hainan, located on the island’s north coast facing the mainland across the Qiongzhou Strait, an active centre highlighted by beautiful beaches, plam trees, a warn climate, volcanic landscapes,  world - class golf, and ancient history will host from 19^th to 21st December CITM China International Travel Mart, the largest and most important trade fair for tourism and culture in Asia.

The trade fair takes place annually at alternating location across China, the name “CITM” stands for a unique exhibition format that connects international market players with the dynamic Chinese tourism industry.

CITM will be hosted at Hainan Convention & Exhibition Center, located at 258 Binhai Avenue in the Xiuying District, a modern venue on the west coast of Haikou City and organized by the the China National Tourism Administration in cooperation with leading tourism institutions.

This major event for promoting destinations, exploring the latest trends, and strengthening partnerships within the Chinese travel market  is far more than a traditional tourism fair. CITM aims to promote cultural exchange, market liberalization, and innovation within the sector, and it serves as a vibrant showcase of the Asian travel market attracting thousands of industry professionals from around the globe each year.

In addition to extensive exhibition opportunities with dedicated zones for domestic and international tourism, CITM features target business matchmaking, industry forums, expert talks, and several product presentations, providing valuable insights into current market trends and the challenges facing the global tourism industry.

Its particular strength lies in the integration of cultural heritage, regional diversity, and technological innovation. Key topics include cultural and museum tourism, international travel destinations, health and wellness tourism, sports and camping travel, “smart tourism” powered by digital solutions, and several products linked to sustainable concepts.

Companies from the aviation, hotel, museum, tour operators and cultural sectors, as well as providers of digital travel solutions uses CITM as a strategic platform to showcase their innovations and services to a highly qualified professional audience.

Both international and domestic exhibitors, including tourism authorities, tour operators, travel agencies, cultural centres, airlines, hotel companies, museums, as well as providers of digital travel solutions uses CITM as a strategic platform to showcase their innovations and services to a highly qualified professional audience includes buyers and relevant decision - makers coming from China and abroad.

A highlight of the fair is a focus on new and innovative tourism products, highlighting emerging trends such as ecological, rural, red (revolutionary history) and seaside tours, along with popular types like cruise, golf, and convention and exhibition tourism. In addition forms like self - driving, independent, and online tours are also highlighted.

A strong emphasis of the event is placed on promoting regional tourism. Changing regional spotlights, such as the culturally rich Yunnan Province, transform CITM visit into a cultural experience.

The trade faur distinguishes itself not only through its broad thematic scope and in - depth content, but also through its close ties to the Chinese market and its strategic alignment with global developments in travel and cultural tourism.

Links

https://www.tradefairdates.com/CITM-China-International-Travel-Mart-M1947/Haikou.html

http://www.citm.com.cn/zh_en/index.html

TUI Group | Continuing its Strategic Expansion across Africa with the Addition of Seven New Hotels to its Portfolio

TUI Group, a renowned German leisure, travel and tourism company headquartered in Hanover and trading on the Frankfurt and Hanover Stock Exchanges is continuing its strategic expansion across Africa with the addition of seven new hotels to its portfolio.

In North Africa, four resorts joined TUI Group’ s offering in November, two additional hotels are set to open in Zanzibar, Tanzania by early 2026 and the First TUI Blue hotel in Gambia has opened its doors, strengthening the German group’s presence in West Africa.

CEO of Holidays Experiences Peter Krueger said that with the expansion of the company’s clusters in North, West, and East Africa, TUI Group is continuing to deliver differentiated holiday experiences in promising growth destinations. These new openings allows the company to reach new customer segment for emerging source markets.

The Mora Sahara Tozeur, Tunisia: This new luxury resort situated in western Tunisia features 93 rooms, and villas with desert views, three restaurants, the “The Pause Spa” with a sauna and steam room, a fitness centre, a multipurpose court, and two outdoor swimming pools. Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities like camel rides, desert hikes, and visits to local sites, while the hotel emphasizes sustainable practices and cultural experiences.

TUI Magic Life Redsina Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt: Tui Magic and Jaz brand expands its offering with this resort located on the suggestive Sinai Peninsula in Egypt in Sharm el Sheikh, renowned destination well known for its white beaches and crystal - clear waters, vibrant atmosphere, and a lively nightlife. The resort has been recently modernised and features beachfront access with a private beach and a large coral reef. The property features 521 rooms, five restaurants, numerous bars serving diverse cuisines and drinks, multiple swimming pools, (including an aquas park and adult – only options) a full service spa,  a diverse range of sports and entertainment and a diving school right by the house reef.

TUI Blue Tamala, The Gambia: This stylish adults - only resort is located on the Atlantic coast of Serrekunda, major centre and the largest area in The Gambia on the Gambia River, situated directly on a private stretch of beach. The property features 140 elegantly designed rooms, including swim - up options, and an all - inclusive concept tailored for relaxation and indulgences. Amenities include a beach bar, a relaxing Spa, a vibrant mix of daily live entertainment and the signature BLUEfit program with a wide range of sports activities and a modern fitness studio.

 Jaz Amaluna and Riu Swahili, Zanzibar, Tanzania:  TUI’s growing hotel cluster in Zanzibar will be further strengthened in the coming months. JAZ Amaluna will open on December 15, 2025, an adults - only resort located on Uroa beach in the idyllic Zanzibar, a tropical destination in East Africa attracting a multitude of tourist for its pristine beaches, unique natural settings and a vibrant culture. This five star resort will feature 211 rooms, including suites and swim - up rooms, a variety of dining options, a dedicated wellness centre and two swimming pools.

 In early 2026, Riu Palace Swahili will follow, which is also designed as an adults - only hotel located on Nugwi Beach and within a 10 minute walk from Kendwa Beach on the north coast of Zanzibar. The property will feature seven restaurants, 7 bars/lounges, a health club, a 24 - hour fitness centre and a terrace.

 Including the two upcoming hotel openings in Zanzibar, the portfolio of TUI Hotels & Resorts in Africa will grow to 106 hotels with over 34.000 rooms.

 Link

https://www.travelmole.com/news/tui-adds-more-africa-hotels/

Hilton | Expanding its Portfolio in the Middle East with the Future Opening of Three Hotels in Barr Al Jissah, Muscat, Oman

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia has announced an expansion of its portfolio in the Middle East with the future opening of three hotels by January 2026 in Muscat, Oman’s port capital, sits on the Gulf of Oman.

Muscat is a charming city surrounded by mountains and desert, with history dating back to antiquity, known since the early 1^st century CE as a leading port for trade between the west and the east, an Arabian gem, highlighted by majestic palaces, bustling bazaars and white sandy beaches, a very captivating destination especially for those looking to experience a blend of traditional culture and modernity in the Arabian Peninsula.

For the opening of these three establishments Hilton has signed an agreement with The Zubair Corporation, an Oman - based company that is engaged in diversified activities in numerous sectors, along with its over 60 subsidiaries and affiliates, considered one of the leading business groups in the country.

The development will include properties under the Waldorf Astoria Hotels and & Resorts, marking the debut of the brand in the country, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and DoubleTree by Hilton brands, effectively doubling Hilton’s presence in Oman.

The three hotels will be situated in Barr Al Jissah, a waterfront area on Muscat coastline, approximately 40 minutes from Muscat International Airport, a resort complex featuring luxury hotels, numerous bars, restaurants, multiple swimming pools, a large lazy river, a spa, sports facilities like tennis courts and a fitness centre, a range of activities including watersports and an Omani cultural village.

The Waldorf Astoria Al Husn Hotel Muscat - This property will undergo extensive renovations before reopening as Waldorf Astoria Hotel and will feature 180 comfortable rooms and suites, five dining venues, a spa, and access to a private beach cove. The hotel will join the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand -characterized by hotels that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to personal service and culinary expertise in landmark locations around the world, offering comfort, luxury and an impeccable service.

The Hilton Muscat Al Bandar - This hotel is located along the coastline with mountain views, positioned near cultural landmarks and dining venues.The property will featurre 198 comfortable rooms and suites, a six dining venues, a dedicated spa, various meeting and event facilities, including a grand ballroom and boardrooms. The hotel will open as part of Hilton’s flagship brand, well known to offer world - class service, emergizing environments and iconic locations in both urban and resort destinations. The brand focuses on creating public spaces with striking designs, lively bars, and destinations restaurants, complemented by elevated accommodations and numerous amenities.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Muscat Al Waha - This hotel will be the second DoubleTree property in Oman, situated on a private beach, nestled between palm tree and the Omani mountains, the property will feature 302 rooms, and four dining venues. The hotel will join the DoubleTree by Hilton brand that emphasizes comfort and a feeling of warmth, offering stylish accommodations but prioritizing guest experiences over flashy elements, with hotels designed to foster “human moments” and connection.

 Hilton currently operates three hotels in Oman: Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair, Hilton Salalah, and Double Tree by Hilton Muscat Qurum.

Links

https://stories.hilton.com/emea/releases/hilton-set-to-double-its-presence-in-oman-with-trio-signing

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138649.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced Plans to Open a New Andaz Hotel in Hiroshima, Japan

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois has announced plans to open a new Andaz Hotel in Hiroshima, a modern city on Japan’s Honshu Island and the principal centre of the Chugoku Region, largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II, known for its historical significance and cultural sites include, the Peace Memorial Park commemorates the 1945 event,  containing the ruins of Genbaku Dome, one of the buildings that was left standing near ground zero, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city is also known for other prominent sites include Shukkei - en, a formal Japanese garden, Hiroshima Castle, a fortress surrounded by a moat and a park, and as a hub for creative industries, attracting designers, artists, and musicians. 

Hiroshima is accessible via Japan’s high - speed rail network, with direct Shinkansen services from Osaka and Tokyo and is also served by Hiroshima Airport. This connectivity is expected to help the hotel attract international and domestic travellers.

The development agreement for Andaz Hiroshima was signed between a Hyatt Hotels Corporation affiliate and an affiliate of Takenaka Corporation, one of five major general contractors in Japan providing architectural, engineering, and construction services headquartered in Chūō - Ku, Osaka.

The project is part of a significant urban development initiative in the Japanese city and the hotel is expected to open in 2027 occupying the 21st to 31st floors of a mixed - use of the KAMIHACHI X high rise'

The development is part of  a major project in Central Hiroshima in the Motomachi Aioidori District, a one - minute walk from the Electric Railway’s “Tatemachi”,  public transports and close to landmarks like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The hotel aims to integrates local cultural elements into its design and services and will feature 235 rooms and suites with modern comforts, restaurants, a rooftop bar and restaurant, a fitness centre with an indoor pool, and banquet and event spaces.

The property will be the second Andaz hotel in Japan, following Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills and will join the Andaz brand part of Hyatt’s Lifestyle Group, focuses on local culture, immersive experiences and a “casual luxury vibe”. Brand's Key features include dynamic, locally inspired design and art, freshly sourced food and beverages, vibrant lounge spaces, and unique cultural programming.

Links

https://newsroom.hyatt.com/102725-Hyatt-Announces-Plans-for-Andaz-Hiroshima

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138652.html

Venezuela | Presented to UNESCO the Candidacy of Joropo Music to be Included in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

The Government of Venezuela presented to UNESCO the candidacy of Joropo, typical music of the Venezuelan plains, also known as “Música Llanera”, a musical style resembling the fandango with the aim to include it in the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

According to information from Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), a state - run television station founded in 1964 and based in Caracas, the Minister of Culture of Venezuela Ernesto Villegas, reported that the official file that supports this candidacy was signed and highlighted the importance of this event for the cultural identity of the country.

The Joropo music, typical of the Venezuelan states of Apure, Barinas, Cojedes, Guáricom, and Portuguesa and also popular in Colombia is a high - energy rhythmic folk music genre characterized by fast tempos, intricate, complex syncopation, and it is a blend of African, Hispanic, and Indigenous influences.

This genre of music is typically played on the harp, “cuatro” (a four stringed guitar) and maracas, though other instruments like the bandola, mandolin, and guitar are also used. 

Singers often have a powerful voice, improvising lyrical themes frequently describing daily life in the “llanos” (plains) and stories of love, and sometimes also inspired by the natural world and animal life.

The popularity of Joropo music across the country consolidates its distinctive character and its cultural relevance in the Venezuelan music tradition.

Apart the candidacy of Joropo Music, UNESCO recognized the National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras and Choirs of Venezuela, Simón Bolivar Musical Foundation, the status of Category 2 Centre, recognizing it as a global benchmark in music education, social inclusion and sustainable development.

This recognition integrates the System into UNESCO’s institutional structure, strengthening in educational and cultural work and allows to share a transformative model that promotes the academic performance and job training of children and young people.

Founded by José Antonio Abreu, the System has trained more than 1.3 million participants and is consolidated as a symbol of international cooperation and educational excellence aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/venezuela-postula-el-joropo-como-patrimonio-cultural-de-la-humanidad/

Italy | Launched a Project to Revitalize Tourism in Inland Areas and Less Visited Provincial Capitals

The Italian Business Confederation (CI) has launched a project aimed to revitalize tourism in inland areas and smaller less visited capitals in Italy, with the goal of promoting sustainable and balanced development by encouraging year - round visitor flows. 

The initiative aims to move beyond a focus on specific peak dates to create a more consistent and sustained influx of visitors, which will in turn support local businesses such as hospitality and catering.

The project objective is to promote “quality tourism” by leveraging intangible cultural heritage to create sustained and diversified visitor flows throughout the year.

In a note from the entity, published on the digital news site of the television channel NTR24, the Italian Business Confederation pointed out that the objective of this initiative is to strengthen often marginalized areas and transform them into competitive tourist centres.

The Confederation highlights in this document that during 2024 the tourism sector confirmed its fundamental role in the Italian economy, with the country welcomed approximately 65 million international visitors, exceeding the levels of the years prior to the Covid – 19 pandemic.

During the first quarter of 2025, the tourism balance recorded a surplus of more than €21 million, equivalent to 1.0% of the GDP, and is expected that, this year, spending by international visitors will grow by 7.0 percentage points, with an average expenditure of about €930 per travellers.

The text points out that, however, the geographical distribution remains uneven, because while the northern regions concentrate the majority of visitors, central Italy registers the highest average expenditure, and in the south, as well as on the islands, strong seasonality and a fragmented supply continue to be faced.

CI’s project includes the identification of provinces where the offer is incomplete or poorly structured, with the creation of a community pact involving local authorities, companies, trade associations, as well as cultural logistics operators.

In this way, it will seek to define a coordinated and competitive tourism product, marketable in national and international markets, and expand collaboration to integrate local companies and global tourism networks.

It is estimated that companies participating in this plan will benefit from a greater presence, thanks to their access to a broader and more visible sector, in addition to strengthening influence, with the ability to impact  local strategies through technical debates, in order to achieve a widespread economic impact.

 It is expected that the generation of values will be expanded not only in hospitality, but also in transport, crafts, gastronomy and services.

In the first quarter of 2026, the operational agenda will be defined at the national and local levels, with a mapping of the tourism offer in the selected provinces, while workshops will be held with companies and key actors.

The source adds that by the third quarter of 2027, progress should be made in the launch of the tourism product, an effort that will be accompanied by an extensive national and international promotion campaign as well as a monitoring of impacts and performance, with estimates in arrivals, attendance, average expenditure and employment.

Link

https://infoturlatam.com/planifican-en-italia-revitalizar-el-turismo-en-zonas-menos-visitadas/