Arabian Travel Market 2026: Middle East Tourism Poised for Major Growth

Travel Trends Panel

Arabian Travel Market 2026 Highlights the Middle East Tourism Boom

Arabian Travel Market 2026 is showcasing the powerful growth outlook for tourism across the Middle East, with new research forecasting a significant increase in international visitor spending through to 2030.

Held from 14 to 17 September 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2026 brings together the global travel and tourism industry to explore emerging markets, changing traveller behaviour, technology and new opportunities across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia.

The newly released ATM Travel Trends Report 2026, produced in association with Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, forecasts international visitor spending in the Middle East will increase by US$116 billion, or 57 per cent, between 2025 and 2030.

MENASA Travel Growth Expected to Outpace the World

The Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA) region is emerging as a major force in international tourism.

Travel volumes across MENASA in 2025 were almost 50 per cent above 2019 levels, significantly exceeding global growth. The region also generated more than half of the worldwide increase in international travel during the period.

While geopolitical and economic uncertainty is expected to affect travel during 2026, Tourism Economics forecasts a strong recovery in 2027. International travel across MENASA is projected to grow by 17 per cent, compared with 8 per cent globally.

By 2030, international travel across MENASA is forecast to reach 316 million arrivals and 2.3 billion visitor nights, generating US$408 billion in visitor spending.

Long-Haul Travellers to Drive Future Tourism Demand

Dave Goodger

Long-haul markets are expected to become increasingly important to Middle East tourism.

China is one of the markets identified as having significant growth potential, with leisure nights from Chinese travellers to the Middle East forecast to increase by 160 per cent by 2030.

The region's position as both a tourism destination and a major international aviation hub provides opportunities to attract travellers from Asia, Europe and Africa.

Dubai and other Middle Eastern destinations are also continuing to expand their accommodation, attractions and tourism infrastructure to meet rising international demand.

Artificial Intelligence Transforming Travel

Technology and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important to the Middle East travel industry.

Research presented at ATM 2026 found that 91 per cent of Middle East travel businesses are piloting or operating AI within their organisations, while 85 per cent reported measurable cost savings.

Travellers are also increasingly turning to artificial intelligence when planning holidays. Prospective visitors to the Middle East are more than twice as likely to have used an AI chatbot for travel planning, at 28 per cent compared with 12 per cent among travellers interested in other regions.

ATM 2026 Connects the Global Travel Industry

Now in its 33rd edition, Arabian Travel Market continues to provide an international meeting place for tourism organisations, airlines, hotels, destinations, travel companies and business event professionals.

The ATM Travel Trends Report 2026 demonstrates the scale of the tourism opportunity ahead, with rising visitor spending, expanding international travel and technological innovation expected to shape the Middle East tourism industry through 2030.

For travellers, tourism businesses and industry professionals, Arabian Travel Market 2026 provides an important insight into how the region is preparing for its next phase of international tourism growth.

Arabian Travel Market

Website: https://www.arabiantravelmarket.com/
Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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NoVacancy Sydney 2026: Discover the Hospitality Start-Ups Shaping the Future of Hotels

NoVacancy 2026 

The future of hotels and accommodation is taking shape in Sydney this September, with NoVacancy 2026 bringing together hospitality leaders, technology innovators, designers and emerging businesses at ICC Sydney on 23 and 24 September.

For hotel owners, accommodation professionals, investors and hospitality decision-makers, one of the most interesting additions this year is the new Launchpad Start-Up Zone, providing a first look at emerging businesses developing solutions for the accommodation industry.

Meet the Next Generation of Hospitality Start-Ups

The Launchpad Start-Up Zone gives visitors an opportunity to discover new hospitality businesses and innovative ideas before they become mainstream.

NoVacancy 2026 features 20 start-ups across the event, alongside more than 200 exhibitors and 500 brands. The focus ranges from guest experience and hotel technology to smarter operations, design and sustainable solutions.

For visitors who enjoy identifying emerging trends early, the start-up area is a worthwhile stop between conference sessions. It offers the chance to meet entrepreneurs, explore new products and consider technologies that could influence the future of hotels.

The event will also feature a Pitch Series on 24 September, when 10 emerging hospitality start-ups will present their ideas to industry judges and compete to be named the 2026 winner.

Explore Nine Hospitality Summits

NoVacancy 2026 

NoVacancy Sydney 2026 offers more than an exhibition floor. Visitors can access nine sector-focused summits covering Hotel Leaders, Small Hotelier, Revenue and Distribution, Hotel Technology, Design Talks, Hotel Marketing, Future Leaders, People and Culture and Sustainable Hotel.

More than 80 free sessions are scheduled across the two-day event, giving hospitality professionals the opportunity to build a personalised program around their business interests.

Among the sessions attracting attention is “Same hotel, new traveller: How to shift your marketing for changing guest demand”, bringing together hospitality and travel industry voices to examine changing customer expectations and marketing strategies.

Technology, Design and the Future of Hotels

Technology is a major theme at NoVacancy 2026, with the Hotel Technology Summit examining practical applications including artificial intelligence, connected rooms, marketing technology, loyalty platforms, robotics, voice technology and more.

The event also features a dedicated Design Hub and Design Talks program, highlighting hotel interiors, materials, sustainability and the future of commercial spaces.

For accommodation businesses looking to improve guest experiences, increase efficiency and respond to changing traveller expectations, NoVacancy provides an opportunity to compare solutions and speak directly with suppliers.

Plan Your NoVacancy Sydney Visit

NoVacancy 2026 will be held at ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 September, from 9am to 5pm each day. Registration is free for hotel and accommodation professionals and industry attendees.

With its combination of hospitality technology, emerging start-ups, hotel design, sustainability, business strategy and networking, NoVacancy Sydney is an important event for anyone interested in the future of Australia's accommodation industry.

NoVacancy Sydney 2026

Website: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/novacancy/
Email: adminau@terrapinn.com
Phone: +61 2 8526 5740
Address: ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW, Australia

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Huon Valley Studio Art Trail 2026: Discover Southern Tasmania Through Art

Huon Valley Studio Art Trail

Southern Tasmania will become a spectacular open-air celebration of creativity when the Huon Valley Studio Art Trail returns from 23–25 October 2026.

Across three days, more than 60 artists and makers will open their working studios and creative spaces to visitors throughout the Huon Valley and Far South. The free, self-guided event provides a rare opportunity to meet artists where they create, watch demonstrations, discover handmade works and explore some of Tasmania’s most beautiful landscapes along the way.

Step Inside the Artists’ Studios

Rather than visiting a conventional gallery, the Huon Valley Studio Art Trail invites travellers to step behind the scenes and experience creativity in the places where artworks are made.

Visitors can meet participating artists, hear the stories behind their work and watch demonstrations of creative techniques. The trail features an impressive variety of disciplines, including painting, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, jewellery, woodwork, glass, photography, printmaking and mixed media.

For art lovers and collectors, many participating artists also offer original artworks and handmade creations for purchase directly from their studios.

A 150-Kilometre Journey Through Southern Tasmania

Huon Valley Studio Art Trail

The Studio Art Trail stretches for more than 150 kilometres through the Huon Valley and Far South, turning a visit to an artist’s studio into part of a broader Tasmanian road trip.

The route winds through a landscape of the Huon River, orchards, mountains and southern coastline. Because the trail is self-guided, visitors can choose which studios and Artist Hubs to explore and create an itinerary around their own interests and available time.

The organisers recommend allowing two or three days for visitors wanting to experience the full breadth of the trail, although selected studios can be visited during a shorter day trip.

Meet the Makers and Discover Their Stories

One of the greatest attractions of the Huon Valley Studio Art Trail is the personal connection between visitors and artists.

At each participating studio, travellers can gain an insight into the creative process and learn about the techniques, inspiration and skills behind individual works. Artist Hubs also bring several creatives together in shared locations, providing an easy way to experience different forms of art in one stop.

This direct connection makes the event particularly appealing for visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of Southern Tasmania’s creative community.

Art Meets Food, Wine and Nature

The trail is also an invitation to slow down and explore the wider Huon Valley.

Between studio visits, visitors can stop at local cafes, restaurants, wineries, cider houses, bakeries, farm gates and other producers. The region’s natural attractions provide another reason to linger, with scenic countryside, waterways, mountains and coastal landscapes forming an ever-changing backdrop to the journey.

For travellers, the result is a memorable combination of art, food, nature and local culture, making the Huon Valley Studio Art Trail an ideal addition to a Southern Tasmania itinerary.

Plan Your Huon Valley Art Trail Adventure

Huon Valley Studio Art Trail

The 2026 Huon Valley Studio Art Trail takes place from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October, with participating studios and Artist Hubs open from 10am to 4pm each day. Entry is free and bookings are not required.

Visitors can begin at any participating studio or Artist Hub and follow the digital trail map to create their own route. Comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as Tasmania’s spring weather can change quickly.

Whether you are passionate about art, searching for unique handmade pieces or simply looking for an inspiring weekend escape, the Huon Valley Studio Art Trail offers an authentic way to discover the people, creativity and landscapes of Southern Tasmania.

Huon Valley Studio Art Trail

Website: huonvalleystudioarttrail.org.au
Address: Huon Valley and Far South, Tasmania, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW Brings Naughty Magic and Big Laughs to Sydney Fringe 2026

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW

Sydney is about to discover that magic is not always suitable for children when Showmen Productions brings its wildly entertaining ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW to Sydney Fringe Festival 2026.

Running from Friday 2 October to Saturday 10 October at The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, the 18+ production promises an evening of outrageous comedy, spectacular illusions and grown-up humour, with performances at 8:10pm.

Magic Takes a Very Different Turn

The creative team behind KABOOM!, The Greatest Magic Show and CIRCUS The Show, Showmen Productions has created an adults-only spectacular that turns traditional magic on its head.

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW stars magicians Sam and Justin alongside the outrageous Magnus "Danger" Magnus. Together, they combine impressive illusion, cheeky Australian humour and plenty of unexpected surprises in a fast-paced show designed exclusively for adult audiences.

The production has built a reputation for delivering a high-energy festival experience that is as much about laughter and audience reaction as it is about magic.

A Festival Favourite for Grown-Ups

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW

Now in its sixth year of touring throughout Australia and internationally, ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW has become a popular festival attraction, regularly performing to sold-out audiences.

The production has received enthusiastic reviews, including a five-star Edinburgh Theatre Weekly review describing it as "An Absolute Riot!"

Its appeal lies in its combination of world-class magic, outrageous comedy and an atmosphere where audiences can relax, laugh and leave their inhibitions at the door.

An Adults-Only Night Out in Sydney

For visitors looking for something different to do in Sydney after dark, the show offers an entertaining addition to a Sydney Fringe Festival itinerary.

The Bunker at Fool’s Paradise, located within Entertainment Quarter at Moore Park, provides the setting for this late-night theatrical experience. With the 8:10pm performance time, audiences can make an evening of it by exploring Sydney's entertainment, dining and nightlife before or after the show.

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW is strictly restricted to audiences aged 18 and over.

Book Your Tickets

ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW

Performances are scheduled for 8:10pm from Friday 2 October to Saturday 10 October 2026.

Tickets are on sale now through Sydney Fringe, with VIP tickets priced at $55, full-price tickets $45, Deadly Tix $36 and group tickets for six or more $39.

With its combination of comedy, illusion and adult-only entertainment, ADULTS ONLY MAGIC SHOW promises a memorable Sydney Fringe Festival experience for those seeking an unconventional night out.

Showmen Productions

Website: https://www.showmenproductions.com.au/
Address: Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW, Australia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adultsonlymagicshow/
Instagram: @AdultsOnlyMagicShow        Hashtag: #adultsonlymagicshow

Sydney Fringe Festival

Website: https://sydneyfringe.com/
Tickets: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/adults-only-magic-show/
Venue: The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW
Dates: Friday 2 October – Saturday 10 October 2026
Time: 8:10pm     Age restriction: 18+

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72BrHftUpkg
Live in studio: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvG0Jftz2bU

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Hold Your Horses! Phar Lap Races Again in Sydney in 2027

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

Australian musical theatre is about to saddle up for another thrilling ride, with the award-winning Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical returning to Sydney in 2027.

Following its sold-out and critically acclaimed 2025 season at Hayes Theatre Co, this uniquely Australian musical will return in an expanded production at Carriageworks, Eveleigh, from 8 July to 8 August 2027. The Sydney season will be followed by a national tour, giving audiences around Australia the chance to experience the extraordinary story of Australia's legendary racehorse.

A Legendary Australian Story Reimagined

Phar Lap was more than a champion racehorse. For Australians, the giant gelding became a symbol of hope, determination and triumph during the difficult years of the Great Depression.

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical brings his remarkable story to the stage through a fast-moving blend of history, comedy, drama and irresistible music. The production follows the gangly New Zealand-born horse, his trainer Harry Telford and the colourful characters surrounding his extraordinary rise to racing fame.

But this is no traditional historical musical. Along the way audiences encounter gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting and even Phar Lap's infamous addiction to sugar.

Electro-Swing Meets Australian History

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

With an original electro-swing score by Steven Kramer, the musical gives Phar Lap's story a contemporary and energetic soundtrack. Drawing inspiration from musical legends such as Duke Ellington and modern artists including Daft Punk, the score combines brassy rhythms, retro sounds and infectious beats.

The result is a musical that moves effortlessly from the racetrack to the rave hall, swapping horseshoes for tap shoes while retaining the heart of one of Australia's most enduring stories.

An Award-Winning Musical Returns

The original 2025 production was a sold-out success and won three Sydney Theatre Awards, including Best Production of a Musical, Best Direction of a Musical for Sheridan Harbridge and Best Performance in a Leading Role in a Musical for Joel Granger.

Joel Granger, known for productions including Guys and Dolls and The Book of Mormon, returns as Phar Lap. His performance helped make the original production such a popular theatrical event.

The show's combination of witty storytelling, energetic performances and a distinctive musical style has earned strong reviews, with critics praising its originality, cleverness and irreverent approach to Australian history.

Phar Lap 2027 Sydney Season

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

The expanded production will be staged at Carriageworks, one of Sydney's leading contemporary arts venues, at 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh.

The Sydney season runs from 8 July to 8 August 2027, with performances on Tuesday at 6.30pm, Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, and Sunday at 5pm.

Tickets start at $94 for adults, $84 for concession and group bookings, and $79 for under-35s.

Following Sydney, Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical will embark on a national tour, including seasons with Melbourne Theatre Company, Merrigong Theatre Company, Geelong Arts Centre and The Art House Wyong.

Book Your Place at the Starting Gate

With its larger production, award-winning creative team, celebrated leading performance and unforgettable electro-swing soundtrack, Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical promises to be one of Australia's most distinctive theatre experiences in 2027.

Whether you love Australian history, horse racing, musical theatre or simply want to see something completely different, Phar Lap is ready to race again.

Hayes Theatre Co

Website: www.hayestheatre.com.au
Phone: (02) 8065 7337
Venue: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh NSW, Australia
Bookings: www.hayestheatre.com.au/event/phar-lap-2027-carriageworks/

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Te Arai Links: A Luxury Coastal Escape for Unforgettable New Zealand Business Events

Te Arai Links

A Remarkable Destination Near Auckland

Where world-class golf, luxury accommodation and breathtaking coastal scenery come together to create an exceptional event experience.

Just over an hour north of Auckland, Te Arai Links offers business event organisers a rare combination of luxury, nature, recreation and privacy. Set among rolling coastal dunes, native landscapes and sweeping Pacific Ocean views, the destination provides a sophisticated alternative to a conventional city conference venue.

Te Arai Links was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, showcasing its accommodation, golf and event experiences to conference planners, incentive organisers and buyers from New Zealand and overseas. It is also recognised as a premium business events destination with facilities suitable for conferences, meetings, corporate retreats and incentive programmes.

Luxury Accommodation by the Pacific

Te Arai Links offers a collection of luxury accommodation designed to immerse guests in the surrounding landscape. Suites, Ocean Cottages, Villas and private homes provide options for couples, executive groups and larger private gatherings.

The accommodation experience is complemented by attentive hospitality and access to the property's restaurants, golf courses, wellness facilities and outdoor activities, allowing delegates to stay, meet, dine and relax within the same remarkable coastal environment.

For incentive travel planners, this creates the opportunity to build a complete New Zealand experience rather than simply booking a meeting room.

World-Class Golf and Outdoor Experiences

Te Arai Links

Golf is central to the Te Arai Links experience, with two acclaimed links courses set within the dramatic coastal landscape. Professional golf lessons, caddie services and group activities provide options for experienced golfers and visitors wanting to discover the sport in an exceptional setting.

Beyond the golf courses, guests can enjoy activities designed around the natural environment. The Playground provides a distinctive putting experience, while the wider property offers opportunities for walking, cycling and enjoying the beaches and coastline.

For corporate incentive groups, these experiences can encourage informal networking and relationship building while allowing delegates to experience one of New Zealand's spectacular coastal destinations.

Meetings, Dining and Corporate Retreats

Te Arai Links provides an intimate environment for executive meetings, private functions and corporate retreats. Rather than separating business from leisure, the destination allows organisers to combine meetings with dining, golf, wellness and outdoor activities.

Food is another important part of the experience. The North Clubhouse offers a relaxed setting overlooking the golf course and coastline, with menus featuring locally sourced seasonal produce. Private functions can also be arranged for resort guests and golfers.

The destination's secluded setting makes it particularly appealing for senior leadership retreats, incentive programmes, exclusive corporate gatherings and high-end business events.

A Different Kind of New Zealand Business Event

Te Arai Links

For organisers searching for luxury corporate retreats near Auckland, golf incentive experiences in New Zealand or distinctive conference destinations, Te Arai Links offers an impressive combination of accommodation, recreation, dining and natural beauty.

Its appearance at MEETINGS 2026 placed the destination in front of the business events industry at a time when organisers are increasingly looking for memorable experiences that combine productive business sessions with genuine destination experiences.

Te Arai Links delivers exactly that: a place where delegates can step away from the everyday, enjoy the Pacific coastline and experience an exceptional side of New Zealand while still having access to the facilities and service expected from a premium event destination.

Contact Te Arai Links

Contact person: Grace Rokela, Sales, Media and Marketing
Website: www.tearai.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tearailinks/
Phone: +64 9 883 4600
Email: grace.rokela@tearai.com
General email: concierge@tearai.com
Address: Te Arai Links, Te Arai, Northland, New Zealand

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/ .

Los Angeles Welcomes the Spectacular New Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

The Lucas Museum Campus. Photography by Patrick Price

The new Lucas Museum of Narrative Art opens in Los Angeles on September 22, 2026, bringing an extraordinary collection of art, film, illustration, comics and popular culture to Exposition Park. From Star Wars production art and costumes to works by Banksy, Norman Rockwell and Frida Kahlo, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through visual storytelling.

The 11-acre museum campus is set to become a major Los Angeles attraction for art lovers, film fans, families and visitors seeking something different from the city's traditional museums.

1. Discover the Lucas Archives

Ralph McQuarrie painting Artoo and Threepio

For Star Wars fans, the Lucas Archives will be a major highlight. The collection features props, artwork and artefacts associated with the first six Star Wars films and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Visitors can see production artwork by Ralph McQuarrie, whose designs helped shape iconic characters including R2-D2 and C-3PO, as well as work by Joe Johnston and comic book artist Jim Steranko.

2. Step Into Star Wars in Motion

Star Wars in Motion

The museum's inaugural cinema exhibition, Star Wars in Motion, explores the development of the Star Wars universe from the original 1977 film through the prequel trilogy.

Props, costumes and production art reveal how the filmmakers transformed imaginative concepts into one of cinema's most influential stories.

3. Explore More Than 1,200 Works

A new work from Banksy

The museum opens with more than 1,200 works of narrative art displayed across more than 30 galleries and approximately 100,000 square feet.

The collection stretches across centuries and cultures, with galleries organised around themes and subjects. Highlights include children's literature featuring Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Eloise and Maurice Sendak, while a dedicated mural gallery includes works by Banksy, including a new piece.

Other galleries explore subjects including sport, science fiction and civic life.

4. Wander Through the Museum Park

Aerial view of Lucas Museum park

The Lucas Museum experience extends outdoors with a spectacular park and gardens designed by landscape architect Mia Lehrer of Studio-MLA.

The green space includes a hanging garden, amphitheatre, meadow and waterfall-inspired fountain. More than 200 trees have been planted alongside indigenous and drought-tolerant plants.

Outdoor sculptures add another layer of storytelling, including a striking depiction of Princess Leia and Jabba the Hutt.

5. Dine at Skywalker Grill

Skywalker Grill

Skywalker Grill offers visitors a chance to enjoy a meal without leaving the museum campus. Located on the museum's upper level, the full-service restaurant draws inspiration from George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch.

The menu puts creative twists on American classics, including lobster corn dogs and Skywalker Ranch wagyu burgers. Skywalker Grill is open to museum visitors and the general public from September 22, with reservations available through Resy.

A New Must-See Los Angeles Attraction

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is much more than a museum dedicated to Star Wars. Its collection brings together fine art, illustration, film, comics, photography and popular culture to examine how stories shape the way people understand the world.

With its galleries, cinemas, gardens, restaurant and extensive collection, the new Lucas Museum is set to become one of the most anticipated cultural attractions in Los Angeles.

Visitors planning a Los Angeles holiday should make reservations ahead of the September 22 opening and allow plenty of time to explore both the museum and its surrounding Exposition Park attractions.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Website: https://lucasmuseum.org/
Email: info@lucasmuseum.org
Phone: +1 213 744 2085
Address: 600 West Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90037, USA

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks 2026: Okinawa Lights Up the Night

The gorgeous fireworks over looking Onna Port

Travellers visiting Okinawa in October can look forward to a spectacular evening of fireworks, traditional entertainment and live music when the Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks takes place on 4 October 2026.

Set beside the beautiful Okinawa coastline, this popular event combines a dazzling fireworks display with Okinawan culture, making it one of the standout things to do in Okinawa in October. The event is ideal for couples, families and leisure travellers staying in Onna Village and northern Okinawa.

Fireworks Over the Okinawa Coast

The 12th Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks will be held on Sunday 4 October 2026 at Onna Village Community Square. The fireworks are scheduled to begin at 8pm and continue for approximately 20 minutes.

As fireworks burst above the sea, visitors can enjoy a spectacular night-time view against the coastal setting of Onna Village. The official Okinawa tourism guide lists the event as free and family friendly.

For travellers searching for Okinawa fireworks in October, the event provides an opportunity to experience a local celebration away from the larger tourist centres.

Experience Okinawan Culture and Eisa

Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks

The fireworks are part of the 43rd Unna Festival, which will be held across 3 and 4 October 2026. The festival brings together local entertainment, live music and traditional Okinawan performances.

One of the highlights is eisa, the energetic Okinawan performing art featuring powerful drumming, dancing and colourful costumes. Watching eisa performances before the fireworks gives visitors an insight into the distinctive culture and traditions of Okinawa.

The combination of traditional entertainment and spectacular fireworks makes the event particularly appealing for families looking for memorable Okinawa holiday experiences.

A Perfect Evening in Onna Village

Onna Village is one of northern Okinawa's best-known resort areas, offering beautiful beaches, clear coastal waters, marine activities, scenic attractions and a wide choice of accommodation.

Visitors can spend the day enjoying the coastline before heading to the festival in the evening. Couples can enjoy a memorable night together, while families can experience Okinawan entertainment followed by the fireworks display.

The event venue is Onna Village Community Square at 419-4 Onna, Onna Village, Okinawa. Temporary parking is planned at Onna Village Akama Comprehensive Sports Ground and Seragaki Fishing Port. Visitors should check the latest official information before travelling, as arrangements may change.

Plan Your Okinawa October Holiday

Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks

The Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks is a great addition to an Okinawa holiday itinerary in October 2026. With fireworks over the sea, eisa performances, live entertainment and a welcoming local festival atmosphere, it offers travellers an enjoyable way to experience Okinawan culture and coastal scenery after dark.

For visitors searching for Okinawa events in October 2026, things to do in Onna Village or family-friendly activities in northern Okinawa, the Chura-Umi Fireworks is an event to put on the itinerary.

Onna Village Tourism Association

Website: https://www.onnanavi.com/
Phone: +81 98 966 2893

Onna Village Chura-Umi Fireworks

Date: October 3, 2026 (Sat) - October 4, 2026 (Sun)
Event Hours: 12:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Venue: Onna Village Community Square (419-4 Onna, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture)

For official event information, visit the Okinawa Official Travel Guide or check the Onna Village official website before travelling.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Sri Lanka: Where Wild Nature, Ancient Temples and Island Culture Meet

Wilpattu National Park

Discover the Mystical Beauty of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island of remarkable contrasts, where lush jungles, ancient temples, dramatic rock formations and golden beaches come together in one unforgettable destination. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, this compact island offers an astonishing variety of landscapes and experiences within relatively short travelling distances.

For travellers seeking more than a traditional beach holiday, Sri Lanka provides an opportunity to explore its wild heart, uncover centuries of history and connect with the people who give the island its unmistakable character.

Wildlife Adventures in Wilpattu National Park

Nature is never far away in Sri Lanka, and few experiences capture this better than a safari through Wilpattu National Park. Recognised by Sri Lanka Tourism as the country's largest and one of its oldest national parks, Wilpattu is a spectacular wilderness of forests, grasslands and natural lakes.

Wildlife encounters can include Sri Lankan elephants, elusive leopards, sloth bears and an impressive variety of birdlife. Exploring the park by safari offers a thrilling glimpse into one of the island's most important natural environments.

Ancient Wonders and Sacred Places

Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka's cultural heritage is every bit as captivating as its landscapes. In Anuradhapura, one of the island's great ancient capitals, visitors can explore extraordinary ruins, monasteries and sacred monuments that reveal the sophistication of early Sri Lankan civilisation.

The revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi adds another deeply spiritual dimension. Religion remains woven into everyday life across Sri Lanka, and visiting its temples and sacred sites provides an opportunity to experience traditions that have shaped the island for centuries.

The dramatic Lion's Head Rock offers another unforgettable experience for those who wish to climb, while ancient cave temples reveal remarkable connections between architecture, art, faith and the natural rock itself.

Gems, Spices and Authentic Island Experiences

Spice gardens

Sri Lanka's treasures are not confined to its landscapes. A visit to a gem museum in Kandy introduces travellers to the island's celebrated precious-stone heritage, while local markets provide a more intimate encounter with everyday life.

Spice gardens reveal the aromas and flavours behind Sri Lankan cuisine, from cinnamon and cardamom to pepper and other tropical spices. Visits to an elephant sanctuary and a tribal village can add further insight into the country's relationship with wildlife, tradition and community.

These experiences transform a Sri Lanka holiday from sightseeing into genuine cultural discovery.

From Ravana Falls to Tropical Beaches

Ravana Falls 

Sri Lanka's scenery continues to surprise at every turn. Ravana Falls is one of the island's memorable natural attractions, while the journey through the central highlands reveals misty mountains, tea country and cascading waterfalls. Sri Lanka Tourism highlights the country's remarkable diversity of beaches, highlands, waterfalls, viewpoints and historic landscapes.

Eventually, the road leads towards the coast, where swaying palms, warm sands and the Indian Ocean provide the perfect setting to slow down after days of exploration.

Experience the Real Sri Lanka

The greatest attraction of Sri Lanka may ultimately be its people. Friendly conversations, traditional food, colourful markets and encounters with local communities reveal a country that cannot be understood simply by visiting its famous landmarks.

Sri Lanka rewards travellers who look beyond the postcard. From wildlife safaris and ancient Buddhist sites to spices, gems, waterfalls and beaches, this remarkable island offers a journey through nature, history and living culture.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau

Website: www.srilanka.travel
Email: info@srilanka.travel
Phone: +94 112 900 900
Tourism Hotline: 1912
Address: No. 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

China and Viet Nam Strengthen Cross-Border Tourism Cooperation

A new wave of tourism cooperation between China and Viet Nam is creating fresh opportunities for cross-border travel, with businesses from Guangxi and Quang Ninh joining forces to develop stronger tourism connections between the two neighbouring destinations.

The agreements highlight the growing importance of cross-border tourism, improved connectivity and closer cooperation between travel businesses in southern China and northern Viet Nam.

Tourism Businesses Build New Partnerships

A business networking conference between China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Viet Nam's Quang Ninh Province was held in Nanning on July 7, bringing together representatives from more than 110 enterprises.

Eleven pairs of businesses from Guangxi and Quang Ninh signed memoranda of understanding, cooperation agreements and commercial contracts covering a range of sectors.

The agreements included smart border gate development, logistics infrastructure, agricultural, forestry and fishery products, cross-border cultural tourism, and testing and inspection services.

For tourism, the agreements are particularly significant, with five tourism and cultural enterprises from Guangxi signing cooperation deals with travel companies in Quang Ninh.

Expanding China-Viet Nam Cross-Border Tourism

Vietnam

The tourism agreements aim to encourage two-way tourist exchanges and make greater use of the complementary tourism resources available on both sides of the border.

By connecting tourism companies in Guangxi and Quang Ninh, the cooperation could help develop new travel experiences and strengthen the China-Viet Nam cross-border tourism market.

The partnership also provides opportunities for travel businesses to work together on itineraries that connect destinations across the international border, giving visitors greater choice when planning regional holidays.

Stronger Connections Through Smart Border Gates

Guangxi and Quang Ninh share an important international border, making efficient border crossings essential for tourism and trade.

Major projects including the Dongxing-Mong Cai cross-border economic cooperation zone and the Dongxing-Mong Cai smart border gate are progressing, according to information provided for the conference.

Once completed, these projects are expected to strengthen connectivity and provide additional momentum for cross-border trade and investment.

For travellers, improved border infrastructure has the potential to make journeys between Guangxi and Quang Ninh more convenient while supporting greater tourism movement between China and Viet Nam.

Tourism and Economic Links Continue to Grow

China

The relationship between Guangxi and Viet Nam extends beyond tourism. Guangxi authorities reported that trade between Guangxi and Viet Nam exceeded CNY 300 billion, equivalent to approximately US$41.8 billion, in 2025.

The latest business agreements demonstrate how tourism is becoming part of a broader network of economic and commercial cooperation.

The conference also highlighted opportunities in areas such as employment and technology. Yang Qian, General Director of Guangxi Jinxiu Dongyue Co. Ltd., said the company had recruited more than 200 Vietnamese workers for enterprises in Guangxi since March.

A Promising Future for Cross-Border Travel

The closer cooperation between Guangxi and Quang Ninh presents an encouraging outlook for China-Viet Nam tourism.

As tourism companies develop new partnerships, border infrastructure improves and cross-border connectivity becomes stronger, travellers could benefit from more integrated experiences linking the two destinations.

For visitors seeking cultural discovery, regional travel and authentic cross-border experiences, the developing tourism relationship between Guangxi and Quang Ninh offers an exciting reason to explore both sides of the China-Viet Nam border.

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office

Website: https://mekongtourism.org/
Email: info@mekongtourism.org
Phone: +66 2 612 4150-1
Address: c/o Department of Tourism,6th Floor, Government Complex Building C, Chaeng Watthana Road, Thung Song Hong, Lak Si, Bangkok 10210, Thailand

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