Edition 207 · September 2025

We welcome short stories on innovations, and success stories and stories that reflect the positive things that the tourism industry is doing to ensure that the industry returns and re-builds.

Submit stories to editor@tourforce.com

Tony Charters is back in Australia having just completed a two-year assignment in Saudi Arabia as Senior Advisor – Ecotourism with the United Nations Development Program.

The role had Tony travel to 10 of the nation’s 13 Provinces to conduct master planning, park assessments and policy advisory to the National Center for Vegetation Cover – which manages Saudi’s National Parks.

“Saudi Arabia has an extraordinary diversity of natural and cultural heritage, and this is just beginning to be discovered by global travellers. The government and private sector are investing heavily in tourism destination development, to further the nation’s 2030 Vision Plan” Tony said.

Visit:  https://www.tonycharters.com/

Australia’s first gallery dedicated to environmental art is now open at Pomonal near the Grampians National Park in Victoria. The new National Centre for Environmental Art aims to transform how visitors experience art, science and nature with exhibitions that foster dialogue between humanity and the natural world. The project also features a botanical garden containing 500 native Australian plants which can be used as a seed bank for revegetation after bushfires.

Further information: https://www.wamafoundation.com.au/

UN Tourism and The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation have launched a startup challenge to source sustainable, innovative and disruptive business models that provide solutions to issues facing the island. The challenge seeks to engage entrepreneurs from across the tourism value chain who can contribute to the sustainable management of coastal areas and marine life, enhance the well-being of local communities, and develop green technologies to benefit both Bahamians and visitors. Submissions are due 10 October 2025.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/un-tourism-bahamas-sustainable-island-challenge

South Australian tourism businesses impacted by the naturally occurring algal bloom affecting some coastal areas on the Fleurieu Peninsula can now apply for grants. The $28 million support package from the South Australian and Australian Government is available to fund public information campaigns to rebuild confidence and drive visitation to coastal regions, as well as community and beach clean-ups.

Further information: https://www.algalbloom.sa.gov.au/home/support-from-government

UN Tourism has launched the Safe Destinations Challenge to identify innovative solutions that position the sector as a driver of resilience, safety, and sustainability. The challenge is open to startups, scaleups, local authorities, academic institutions, and tourism organisations. Applications close 31 October 2025.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/un-tourism-launches-the-safe-destinations-challenge-to-strengthen-tourism-resilience-in-europe-and-beyond

Sydney Airport, in partnership with Australian Border Force and Qantas, is trialling the new digital incoming passenger card. The initiative is aimed at using digital credentials and facial recognition to streamline the passenger journey and forms part of broader efforts to improve the arrival experience at Sydney Airport including the installation of eight new ABF SmartGate kiosks at Terminal 1.

Further information: https://www.sydneyairport.com.au/corporate/media/corporate-newsroom/sydney-airport-welcomes-digital-incoming-passenger-card-trial

Australia’s first greenfield motorsport facility in the Lake Macquarie region, north of Sydney, has received funding to combine a top-tier driving and training facility with premium accommodation, fine dining, and rejuvenating wellness experiences. ‍The Black Rock Motor Resort is located on the site of a former underground coal mine and features a 5.4-kilometre FIA Grade Two circuit, a skid pan and handling circuit, electric go-karts, an off-roading arena, state-of-the-art simulators, and dedicated vehicle performance tracking. Similar high-end motorsport resorts exist in the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

Further information: https://www.blackrockresort.com.au/motorsport

Hurtigruten is offering an array of sustainably managed ‘Open Village’ experiences as overtourism challenges continue to grow across Europe. The Norwegian cruise line has collaborated with locals to create community-led experiences that immerse guests in everyday life across the three remote coastal villages of Træna, Bessaker, and Sæbø. For every visit there is a direct financial contribution made by Hurtigruten to each community based on the number of guests onboard.

Further information: https://press.hurtigruten.com/pressreleases/the-antidote-to-overtourism-hurtigruten-introduces-open-village-experiences-along-norways-remote-coastline-3396523

Australian hostel group Drifter has launched a competition where the winner will receive a paid position travelling, working, and residing in various properties across Australia and New Zealand for a period of three months. The Next Best Job in the World Campaign is being promoted through international job sites, social media channels, and paid out-of-home advertising in Europe, South-East Asia, and the Americas. It is open to individuals eligible for a working visa in Australia and New Zealand, as well as residents of these countries. Applications close 20 October 2025.

Further information: https://thedrifter.com/nextbestjob/

The Pumphouse Point Retreat on Lake St Clair in Tasmania is expanding its offering with the opening of two new premium luxury retreats. The $2.25 million development by NRMA Parks and Resorts responds to growing demand for exclusive, nature-based experiences. Each retreat boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with a king bed, fireplace, and an outdoor terrace with a sink-in bathtub.

Further information: https://www.pumphousepoint.com.au/

Murray River Trails fund is installing 10 Fish Hotels along a stretch of the Murray River in South Australia to environmental change, habitat loss, and overharvesting. These specially designed underwater structures will provide critical habitat for native fish species like the Murray Cod which relies on submerged logs to breed, shelter, and survive. The project is the first in a series of regenerative tourism initiatives turning guests and supporters into stewards of the environment guided by scientific and ecological knowledge.

Further information: https://australianwildlifejourneys.com/blog/2025/06/05/249/fish-hotels-for-the-future-a-regenerative-project-on-the-murray

The multi award-winning Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Tropical North Queensland has announced an $85 million upgrade. The pioneering attraction in the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest will undergo redevelopment of the 7.5-kilometre gondola cableway to modernise the experience and maintain its commitment to environmental stewardship. Europe-based global cableway leader Doppelmayr Group has been appointed to spearhead the project due to be completed in late 2027.

Further information: https://www.skyrail.com.au/upgrade/

The Slovenian Tourist Board, in partnership with Eurosport, has promoted Slovenia as a destination for cycling and active holidays during the Tour of Slovenia, Giro d’Italia and Tour de France. During the Tour de France they also collaborated with tourism ambassadors Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič to launch a digital campaign targeting sports fans in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Visegrad countries through storytelling, social content and international media.

Further information: https://www.slovenia.info/en/press-centre/press-releases/34061-tadej-pogacar-s-historic-victory-further-cements-slovenia-s-status-as-a-global-cycling-powerhouse-reception-in-paris-honours-slovenian-and-french-cyclists

A new B2B travel platform has launched in the United States and Europe as an independent joint venture with HBX Group to connect travel advisors to luxury hotel properties around the globe. The Luxurist will enable end-to-end itinerary planning enhanced by artificial intelligence, exclusive access to properties around the globe, real-time management for inventory and booking confirmation, a concierge team, preferred rates and specialised amenities for clients.

Further information: https://www.theluxurist.com/

The New Zealand Government is planning to charge international tourists a fee to access popular natural attractions from 2027 including Cathedral Cove/Te Whanganui-a-Hei, Tongariro Crossing, Milford Sound and Aoraki Mount Cook. Under the proposed scheme entry, New Zealanders would remain free while fees from foreign visitors will contribute to conservation projects improving infrastructure and environmental management. It reflects tourist taxes being introduced in other destinations around the world including Mount Fuji, Hawaii, and Venice.

Further information: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/unleashing-growth-conservation-land

An evaluation of Scotland’s UNESCO Trail by VisitScotland has found that the trail raised Scotland’s profile as a holiday destination and leader in promoting UNESCO values and responsible tourism practices. It was originally launched as a digital trail for all 13 of Scotland’s UNESCO designated World Heritage Sites, Biospheres, Global Geoparks and Creative Cities. The project was led by VisitScotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the U.K. National Commission for UNESCO, Historic Environment Scotland, NatureScot, the National Trust for Scotland and Scotland’s UNESCO designations.

Further information: https://toolkit.visitscotland.org/asset-page/758850-on-the-trail-to-success

Image Credit: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

UN Tourism and World Indigenous Tourism Alliance have released a new report which explores the role of intercultural dialogue in shaping policy on how indigenous tourism can be a tool for cultural and natural preservation, knowledge and entrepreneurship led by indigenous communities. The Compendium of Good Practices in Indigenous Tourism – Regional Focus on Asia and the Pacific features 14 case studies from indigenous and non-indigenous organisations, communities, and public and private entities from across the region.

Further information: https://www.e-unwto.org/doi/10.18111/9789284426461

Tourism Australia has developed a Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2025-2028 which outlines their commitment to fostering a more accessible tourism industry. The plan also provides practical steps to unlock the potential of this sector through inclusive marketing, industry support, and fostering a workplace culture that values and champions diversity. The plan was designed with Get Skilled Access and is aligned with Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031 and guided by principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Further information: https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/about/industry-sectors/accessible-tourism.html

Virgin Australia and Adelaide Airport have launched an initiative designed to reduce anxiety and build confidence for individuals who find flying challenging. The Try Before You Fly program is the first of its kind in Australia offering participants a simulated travel experience from booking and check-in to boarding and sitting on an aircraft without the plane ever leaving the gate. The program will run alongside other accessible travel initiatives including meet and assist, hearing loops installed throughout the terminal and a Facility Dog.

Further information: https://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/newsroom/2025/6/virgin-australia-and-adelaide-airport-launch-australian-first-accessibility-program/

The Blue Tourism Innovation Team has released a report providing an analysis of the state of blue tourism across the Western Indian Ocean region including its trends, challenges, and governance landscape. The Sustainable Blue Tourism in the Western Indian Ocean: Trends, Challenges, and Policy Pathways report outlines four key policy pathways to foster a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.

Further information: https://our-blue-future.org/2025/06/18/sustainable-blue-tourism-in-the-western-indian-ocean-pathways-for-a-resilient-future/

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has announced the expansion of its youth engagement program, developed in conjunction with National Geographic Education. Since 2017, the National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program has helped young travellers ignite their passion for exploration, conservation, and storytelling through hands-on activities led by a certified field educator and supported by experts, specialists, and naturalists.

Further information: https://press.expeditions.com/press-releases/view/introducing-national-geographic-explorers-in-training-an-immersive-kids-and-teens-program-premiering-aboard-national-geographic-lindblad-expeditions

Accor have released a white paper which explores the future of the spa and wellness industry while touching on key consumer shifts and trends. The Making Waves: Rethinking Spa and Wellness Design for a Modern Era report leverages the insights, predictions and analysis garnered from specialists and renowned industry experts around the world. Accor’s research of 7,500 consumers across six countries revealed that wellness is a priority for its guests and a shift toward membership among hotel spas and fitness clubs.

Further information: https://press.accor.com/accors-latest-white-paper-reveals-a-new-era-of-wellness-design-in-hospitality

The European Travel Commission, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the sustainable development of Europe as a tourism destination, has launched a global campaign designed to inspire and educate travellers on how responsible travel practices can transform their journey, for the better. The Unlock an Unexpected Upgrade aims to show how travelling off-season, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, choosing eco-friendly options or supporting local businesses benefits travellers and the local communities they visit.

Further information: https://etc-corporate.org/campaign/unlock-an-unexpected-upgrade/

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority received funding from the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to develop the Great Ocean Road Regional Trail Strategy 2025-35. It aims to establish the region as one of Australia’s best nature-based tourism destinations by providing a framework to guide state and local government agencies in planning, developing, maintaining, managing, marketing, and utilising an integrated network of 12 walking trails over the next decade.

Further information: https://www.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/Latest-News/New-Trails-Strategy-To-Boost-Great-Ocean-Road-Tourism

The Ocean Tourism Pact was launched by the French Government, the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations, and the Ocean and Climate Platform to bring together stakeholders dedicated to shaping a sustainable future for blue tourism. It is supported by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and Environment Program within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Program, as well as the World Travel and Tourism Council, the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Travalyst, and the tourism and hospitality sector.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/tourism-rises-to-the-ocean-challenge-at-unoc3-a-unified-call-for-a-blue-transformation

Visit Greenland has published a new 10-year strategy that sets the framework for the organisation’s strategic priorities and initiatives towards 2035. The strategy focuses on strengthening tourism development with consideration and respect for nature, culture and people. It outlines how the organisation will work towards making tourism a responsible and long-term driver of societal development, focusing on creating value, pride and new opportunities locally.

Further information: https://traveltrade.visitgreenland.com/strategy/

UN Tourism and Slow Food are working together under a new Memorandum of Understanding to promote gastronomy tourism as a tool for socio-economic development of people and communities. The partnership aims to strengthen areas of collaboration including research, identifying case studies, sharing best practices, training and skills development, as well as the creation of networks enhancing relationships between food producers and tourism stakeholders.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/un-tourism-and-slow-food-partner-to-strengthen-tourism-and-agriculture-links-to-benefit-of-destinations-and-communities

New research from the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with Kearney, outlines potential future scenarios for travel and tourism shaped by climate, technology, and geopolitics. The Four Scenarios for the Future of Travel and Tourism report provides a framework for discussing the strategic implications of these scenarios and how they might affect economies, businesses, communities and travellers.

Further information: https://www.kearney.com/industry/transportation-travel/article/navigating-the-future-four-scenarios-shaping-travel-and-tourism-by-2030

Australian Regional Tourism and Nourish Group have released a discussion paper for regions wanting to place community at the heart of destination management. The Growing Momentum for Social Impact Reporting in Australian Regional Tourism white paper calls on councils, Destination Management Organisations, and tourism operators to capture the broader benefits of tourism, such as increased local employment, enhanced community engagement, and improved social infrastructure.

Further information: https://regionaltourism.com.au/project/social-impact/

Agoda, in collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, has launched the Sustainable Tourism Academy a free digital training platform to equip hoteliers with practical tools and knowledge covering sustainable management including socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental impacts. It features interactive learning exercises, case studies, assessments, and discussion boards in English, Vietnamese, Malay, Thai, and Indonesian.

Further information: https://www.agoda.com/press/agoda-and-gstc-launch-free-digital-training-platform/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is supporting a new coral reef friendly certification for sunscreen. The Reef Protection Factor is a certification system, developed by the University of Derby, in collaboration with the global creative agency McCann, to help consumers identify sunscreens and other cosmetic products that are safe for coral reefs. It aims to establish a gold standard for reef-safe products and combat chemical pollution in oceans.

Further information: https://www.derby.ac.uk/research/showcase/developing-reef-protection-factor-cert/

The Regenerative Travel organisation is looking for global changemakers working to solve challenges and inspire positive action to enter the Regenerative Travel Impact Awards. The awards are aimed at individuals and initiatives that embody the spirit of regeneration by improving people’s lives, communities, and the world. Winners will be chosen by a judging panel comprising experts in marine ecology, social entrepreneurship, journalism, sustainability, visual storytelling, tourism policy, hospitality, and impact investing. Nominations close 30 September 2025.

Further information: https://www.regenerativetravel.com/impact-awards/

A new study from the Luxury Group by Marriott International shows how high-net-worth travellers are recalibrating how, where, and why they travel by prioritising wellbeing, immersive experiences, emotional value, and intentional design over volume and extravagance. The Intentional Traveller Report unveils evolving behaviours and a mindset marked by deeper cultural engagement, increased precision in itinerary planning, and rising expectations from brands and experiences. The study surveyed residents in Australia, Singapore, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand.

Further information: https://news.marriott.com/news/2025/07/01/the-purpose-driven-traveler-new-report-reveals-shift-in-asia-pacific-luxury-travel-trends

MMGY Travel Intelligence has published new research, in partnership with the European Network for Accessible Tourism and the World Travel and Tourism Council, which examines the travel habits, destination preferences, and barriers experienced by individuals with mobility requirements or accessibility needs, as well as their companions and caregivers. The Portrait of European Travellers with Mobility and Accessibility Needs report covers a range of topics including trip frequency, spending, accommodation, and transportation choices.

Further information: https://www.accessibletourism.org/?i=enat.en.news.2428

Priority Pass have released a new report which reveals how digital innovation is reshaping what travellers value and engage with at the airport. The Tomorrow’s Journey: Smarter, Faster, Connected report draws on insights from over 12,000 global travellers across 21 countries and territories. It shows the top technologies improving the airport experience for travellers are fast-track security, digital boarding passes within airline apps, automated baggage drops, and advanced security scanners.

Further information: https://www.collinsongroup.com/en/insights/tomorrows-journey

The Adventure Travel Trade Association has released the results of their annual survey which highlights the top trending activities and destinations to shifts in traveller motivations, sustainability practices, and booking behaviours. The 2025 Annual State of the Adventure Travel Industry Snapshot Report offers benchmarks for those working in the sector and a data-informed view of the health, direction, and unique values driving the global adventure travel industry.

Further information: https://learn.adventuretravel.biz/research/2025-adventure-travel-trends-insights-state-of-the-adventure-travel-industry

According to the latest Baggage IT Insights from SITA, the rate of mishandled baggage continues to decline even though it still costs airlines $5 billion annually. The Not ‘Lost’ Lost Report has revealed how the growing impact of smart technology and automation is pushing aviation forward in practical ways. The report reflects the views and data of 280 airlines with real-time tracking, AI-powered analytics, self-service solutions, and sharing the location of Apple AirTag with airlines becoming standard to allow quicker baggage recovery.

Further information: https://www.sita.aero/pressroom/news-releases/more-air-passengers-than-ever-with-one-of-the-lowest-rates-of-mishandled-baggage-thanks-to-tech-investments/

The 9th UN Tourism Global Conference on Wine Tourism will be held in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, from 6-7 October 2025. The conference is an opportunity for wine tourism experts to work towards a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient future for communities.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/events/9-un-tourism-global-conference-on-wine-tourism

The Australian Travel Industry Association Beyond Borders Travel Summit will be held at The Star Brisbane on 17 October 2025. The summit is designed to bring the industry together to connect, recognise excellence and explore the future of travel.

Further information: https://www.atpieventsau.com/beyond-borders-2025/

The Wellness Summit will be held at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat on the Gold Coast from 17-19 October 2025. The summit offers immersive experiences, TED Talk-style presentations, interactive panels, hands-on demonstrations, and the Asia Pacific Spa and Wellness Awards.

Further information: https://www.wellnesssummit.com.au/summit2025

The World Trails Conference will be held in Perth, Western Australia from 19-22 October 2026. The conference is expected to bring around 450 delegates from 35 countries including global leaders, land custodians, tourism innovators, academics, environmental advocates, and community trail builders.

Further information: https://worldtrailsconference.org/