Edition 212 · February 2026

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

Ecotourism Australia’s Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will be held on the Gold Coast from 2-5 June 2026. brings together domestic and international sustainability changemakers, innovators and industry leaders for four days of ideas, collaboration and real impact. This year, the program spans regenerative travel, protected area management, evolving visitor expectations, inclusive and climate-resilient destination design, and authentic Indigenous partnerships — designed to deliver practical insights and tools to drive lasting change across the tourism sector.

Further information: https://ecotourism.org.au/gsts-26/

It is with great sadness that John McIntyre, the British Honorary Consul in Cairns, passed away in January 2026. He worked in several roles across Tropical North Queensland including regional tourism, local council, and community organisations, as well as the Great Tropical Drive and Queensland Heritage Trails Network Projects, and Wet Tropics Management Authority.

The Northern Territory’s Aboriginal Tourism Product Distribution Grant Program is designed to support majority owned Aboriginal businesses and organisations to promote and sell their tourism experiences and product. It is a non-competitive funding pool of $50,000 for online booking systems and for expert distribution advice including pricing structures and rate sheets. Applications close 30 April 2026.

Further information: https://www.tourismnt.com.au/industry-toolkit/grants-funding/aboriginal-tourism-product-distribution-grant-program

The New South Wales Government is providing an additional $5.9 million for electric vehicle charging infrastructure all powered by one hundred per cent renewable energy in 48 regional locations. The 159 new chargers will be installed along road trip routes and key tourism destinations from Bourke to the Murray and the Tweed to Tumut. Six companies will install the charging infrastructure including EVSE, KarChargers, NRMA, Woolworths Group, ReGen EV Charging Install and Rise Energy.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/newsroom/charging-ahead-with-more-options-for-ev-drivers

Travel Elevates, the not-for-profit arm of Signature Travel Network, has announced its 2026 Global Impact Grants awarding funding to 11 community projects across 10 countries focused on education, technology, and economic growth. Grant recipients represent a broad range of initiatives including women’s entrepreneurship programs, school construction, sanitation infrastructure, digital literacy and workforce training in India, Kenya, Peru, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, Colombia, Mexico, and Indonesia.

Further information: https://latteluxurynews.com/2026/01/16/travel-elevates-announces-2026-global-impact-grant-recipients/

Intrepid Travel has launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging older Australians to take the extended trip they never had in their youth. The Golden Gap Year integrated campaign includes a nationwide competition offering one Australian aged 55 and over the chance to win a 12-month Tailor-Made travel experience valued at up to $125,000 including flights. Intrepid has also launched a dedicated hotline to connect prospective travellers with consultants who can design longer itineraries tailored to their pace and interests. Applications close 15 March 2026.

Further information: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/golden-gap-year

Uber has launched the Uber Snowmobile to give tourists at the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics an opportunity to discover the forest and alpine routes surrounding Cortina. Operated in partnership with Snowdreamers, the free experience includes a professional guide, safety equipment, and exclusive Uber-branded winter swag. Uber will also roll out Uber Ski a dedicated ride option for travellers carrying skis, snowboards, and winter equipment making it easier to move between hotels, slopes, and Olympic hotspots.

Further information: https://www.uber.com/en-IT/newsroom/uber-snowmobiles/

The Erawan Group, a leading hotel investor and operator in Asia-Pacific, has launched Fry to Fly, a circular economy initiative that transforms used cooking oil from its hotels and resorts into sustainable aviation fuel. Launched in 2024, the group has partnered with the sustainable fuel arm of Thailand’s largest oil refiner to support decarbonisation of aviation and promote food safety. The low-carbon aviation fuel can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 80 percent, helping to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Further information: https://www.theerawan.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/533/the-erawan-group-partners-with-bsgf-signs-mou-as-the-first-hotel-group-to-manage-used-cooking-oil-for-sustainable-aviation-fuel-saf-production

Saudi Arabia has revealed plans for a new rail experience which has been designed by renowned architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman from the studio Culture in Architecture in partnership with Saudi Arabia Railways and national tourism bodies. Dream of the Desert is the first ultra-luxury sleeper train designed to carry just 66 passengers across a 1,300-kilometre network through Saudi Arabia from Riyadh to Al Jouf. The train consists of 14 carriages including 33 suite cabins, two restaurant cars and a majlis-inspired lounge.

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

Emirates Wolgan Valley in Australia’s Blue Mountains World Heritage area will reopen as a Ritz-Carlton Lodge mid-2026. Emirates and Marriott International have signed an agreement to manage the 40-key all-inclusive luxury lodge, main homestead, signature restaurant, lounge bar, and wine room. Other amenities will include a pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, a modern fitness centre, and the world-renowned The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Since 2006, Emirates has invested AU$150 million including the planting of more than one million native trees across the site.

Further information: https://www.emirates.com/media-centre/emirates-and-marriott-international-to-bring-first-ever-ritz-carlton-lodge-globally-to-australias-wolgan-valley/

Galactic Resource Utilisation Space, also known as Gru Space, plans to build a hotel on the moon by 2032 with recreational activities such as low-gravity golf and lunar walks. The California start-up is accepting US$1 million refundable deposits from wealthy adventure-seekers who want to be among the first guests at a lunar hotel. A stay at the lunar hotel could cost about US$10 million per guest with transport, accommodation, training, and operational costs included. It will host up to10 guests and aims to be accessible via commercial flights operated by companies such as Blue Origin and SpaceX.

Further information: https://globetrender.com/2026/01/15/gru-space-takes-1-million-dollar-reservations-moon-hotel/

The New South Wales Government is calling for Expressions of Interest from investors for a world class mountain bike and adventure park covering 500 hectares at a location three kilometres west of Jindabyne town centre in the Snowy Mountains. The Jindabyne Mountain Bike and Adventure Park already has 20 kilometres of mountain bike trails, with the opportunity to add an additional 60 kilometres, introduce new adventure activities and grow commercial ventures including accommodation, cafes, and playgrounds.

Further information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/ministerial-releases/new-world-class-adventure-for-snowy-mountains-gears-up

The ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved Phase Two Expansion of Dubai’s second airport which once completed will be the size of the current Dubai, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, and Atlanta airports combined. The expanded Dubai World Central Al Maktoum International Airport will be the world’s first to feature five parallel runways, two terminals, as well as four satellite concourses with more than 400 aircraft contact stands.

Further information: https://dubaiairports.ae/corporate/our-story/dwc-dubai-world-central

VisitBritain, in partnership with VisitEngland and Tourism Cares, has launched a digital platform for consumers which highlights places of interest that are making a difference in terms of regenerative tourism and promoting sustainability. The Meaningful Travel Map of England provides travellers access to experiences that support local communities, preserve natural and cultural resources, and contribute to sustainable tourism. The resource features more than 30 partners selected based on demonstrated positive impact and adherence to responsible tourism practices.

Further information: https://maps.tourismcares.org/en/britain

Tourism Whitsundays has joined a global network of destinations leading the charge toward a sustainable future by building a tourism industry that supports and benefits everyone in local communities, while protecting the planet and creating a resilient economy. Destination Think Collective is a global alliance of destinations dedicated to transforming tourism into a catalyst for community wellbeing, climate action, and cultural respect. Its members comprise other destinations worldwide including Auckland, Banff, Copenhagen, Queenstown, Hawai’i, and Aruba.

Further information: https://www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/media-centre

Trip.com has launched a new artificial intelligence-powered platform that enables consumers to build personalised itineraries based on destination, trip duration, and travel style. Trip.Planner is a digital travel concierge offering real-time transport integration including pricing, availability, and descriptions as well as live availability for restaurants, hotels, and attractions. It is currently available on English-language Trip.com sites in select markets including the U.K., U.S., Canada, Australia, and Hong Kong with wider European localisation set to follow in 2026.

Further information: https://au.trip.com/blog/trip-planner/

The Happitat Adventure Park has opened as a new climbing experience at Binna Burra Lodge in the World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park. Italian for iron path, the via ferrata experience offers climbers and hikers the opportunity to navigate steep or exposed terrain, cliff faces, and bridges. The $17.5 million project features a zipline course and various other attractions and amenities.

Further information: https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/funding-grants/attracting-tourism-fund/binna-burra-via-ferrata

An English walk originally mapped by legendary U.K. walker Alfred Wainwright over 50 years ago has now been upgraded to National Trail status by Natural England. Covering over 308 kilometres, the Coast-to-Coast Walk connects the westernmost point on the Cumbrian coast to the North Yorkshire coast. The trail passes through scenic landscapes such as the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors. It is set to open in 2026 following works to improve signage, visitor information, and wayfinding to services.

Further information: https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/coast-to-coast/

Intrepid Travel has signed a five-year landmark partnership agreement with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada to develop and promote Indigenous tourism across the country. Under the partnership, Intrepid will increase the number of Indigenous-led experiences in Canadian itineraries, co-develop community-led products, and co-create new Indigenous focused adventures. The partnership is a new benchmark for how the travel industry can work alongside Indigenous-led organisations with long-term investment, shared decision-making, and economic outcomes for communities.

Further information: https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/intrepid-travel-signs-landmark-deal-to-support-indigenous-tourism-in-canada-810729656.html

Changi Airport has opened a sensory space designed for travellers with invisible disabilities and their caregivers as part of the airport’s efforts to make travel more inclusive for all. The Calm Room offers a soothing, safe environment where travellers can take a moment to regulate, recharge and prepare for their journey. It features three unique zones – The Forest, The Den, and The Nest which cater to different rest positions and age groups.

Further information: https://www.changiairport.com/en/at-changi/facilities-and-services-directory/calm-room.html

ABTA the main trade association for U.K. travel agents and tour operators in the travel industry has launched new guidance to help travellers consider accessibility and assisted travel needs when planning a holiday, travelling on business or visiting family and friends. It aims to help people consider whether they, or someone they are travelling with, have specific needs due to reduced mobility, access requirements, non-visible disabilities, or neurodiversity. The guidance also includes a checklist that customers can complete and use as a prompt for discussions with their travel company, to make sure all areas are considered.

Further information: www.abta.com/tips-and-advice/accessible-travel

A new study by the University of Queensland Business School found that being in holiday mode makes tourists less accountable for sustainable behaviour due to a temporary identity switch. The world-first study has revealed the psychology behind why tourists are less environmentally responsible on holiday and why efforts to encourage green habits among travellers have failed. The research also highlights that even while values do not change the most eco-conscious travellers waste more and conserve less than at home.

Further information: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261517725001918

Exodus Adventure Travels has partnered with iNaturalist to launch the latest phase of its Citizen Science program. As part of this new collaboration, consumers will have the opportunity to make an active contribution to biodiversity science by photographing and documenting their own wildlife sightings. This will then be included within iNaturalist’s global biodiversity database which is used by researchers, scientists, and environmental and wildlife conservationists worldwide to support their understanding of ecosystems and enable them to identify how to better support the protection of species and their habitats.

Further information: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/sustainability/thriving-nature/citizen-science

Accor has launched an industry white paper exploring how sustainability can drive long-term growth and resilience in one of the world’s top travel destinations. The White Paper on Sustainable Development in Greece reflects a commitment to supporting the responsible expansion of sustainable tourism which balances economic growth with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. It features perspectives from leading experts and influential voices in the hospitality and tourism sector to ensure Greece remains a world-class travel destination for generations to come.

Further information: https://news.gtp.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Accor_WhitePaper_SustainableexpansionofGreektourism-2025.pdf

Planeterra has released its annual Impact Report detailing the immersive community tourism experiences and initiatives it supports around the world. The 2024 Impact Report provides invaluable insights for travel companies, donors, and media how tourism can be a powerful force for good. Planeterra was established in 2003 by G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip to serve as a non-profit partner and focus on supporting social and environmental initiatives through tourism.

Further information: https://planeterra.org/impact/

The Australian Government has unveiled the next stage of its THRIVE 2030 Action Plan which outlines how Australia will drive sustainable tourism growth and reach $230 billion in visitor spend by 2030. It will focus on five priority areas to support Australia’s tourism industry and broader visitor economy through international marketing, investment in iconic attractions and industry-wide capability building.

Further information: https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-action-plan-to-2030

Destination New South Wales has produced new resources to assist tourism businesses to create or grow their nature-based experiences. Operators can find practical tips on developing bookable experiences such as guided walks, wildlife encounters, water-based activities, cycling, and stargazing. Tourism Research Australia data shows nature-based travel is a key driver of high-value visitor experiences and regional economic prosperity.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/destination-nsw-business-support/nsw-first-program/nature-based-tourism

The Queensland Government has released guidelines for ecotourism applicants to help in determining whether proposed use aligns with national park values and can be undertaken in an ecologically sustainably manner. The Best Practice Development Guidelines 2025: Ecotourism Facilities on National Parks will assist in developing facilities and experiences on national parks that are in the public interest, are ecologically sustainable, ensure preservation of the land and protection of cultural values and resources.

Further information: https://parks.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/397632/best-practice-development-guidelines-ecotourism-facilities.pdf

The Travel Foundation, in partnership with Cuidadores de Destinos and supported by Preferred Travel Group, The Travel Corporation, Turismo Islas Canarias, and Finn Partners, have released a global call-to-action to place climate adaptation and resilience at the centre of tourism’s climate transition. The ‘Where Next?’ initiative aims to accelerate structural change within tourism systems by identifying and promoting ideas developed in close collaboration with destination authorities, communities, private sector partners, and global institutions.

Further information: https://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/wherenext/

The UN Tourism Online Academy has launched two new online courses designed to equip rural leaders, entrepreneurs, and practitioners with knowledge and tools to create more sustainable, inclusive, and community-led tourism experiences. Developed under the Tourism for Rural Development Program, the practical courses are now available free of charge in both English and Spanish for tourism entrepreneurs, destination managers, local officials, Non-Government Organisation workers, and students.

Further information: https://www.untourism.int/news/un-tourism-launches-online-training-on-tourism-for-rural-development

The Adventure Travel Trade Association and Foundation for Environmental Education have announced a strategic partnership to promote sustainable travel practices. The Memorandum of Understanding aims to drive meaningful change by integrating globally recognised sustainability programs such as Green Key and Blue Flag into the adventure travel industry. The Foundation for Environmental Education is one of the world’s largest Education for Sustainable Development organisations with member organisations 81 countries.

Further information: https://www.fee.global/news-stories/2025/3/7/atta

Entries have opened for the 2026 Europe Responsible Tourism Awards organised by the International Centre for Responsible Tourism and sponsored by easyJet holidays. The awards recognise tourism initiatives across six categories that deliver measurable benefits for local communities, cultures, and the environment. Winners of Europe will then compete with regional winners from across the world for a Global Responsible Tourism Award. Submissions close 3 April 2026.

Further information:  https://icrt.global/icrt-2026-europe-responsible-tourism-awards/

Tourism Tropical North Queensland has won Initiative of the Year in the Global Regenerative Travel Impact Awards 2025 for two major world-first global initiatives that demonstrated how sustainable tourism can drive conservation, cultural stewardship, and economic resilience. Both the Guardian of the Reef and The Lifetime of Greatness Projects drew attention to the value of the Great Barrier Reef and how visiting the World Heritage area helps its future.

Further information: https://tourism.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/articles/great-barrier-reef-campaigns-awarded-for-travel-impact/

Travel search engine KAYAK has released the second edition of their annual report highlighting the destinations and travel behaviours that will shape the year ahead. The What the Future report shows that Gen Z and Millennials are not following popular travel routines and are instead looking to discover the ‘next gen of destinations’ that have yet to be seen on social media or before they become mainstream news. The results were generated from survey of more than 14,000 travellers from both generations, as well as search engine and TikTok group data.

Further information: https://www.kayak.com/wtf-report

A new report from the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with Oliver Wyman, has highlighted sports tourism as a driving force for the long-term resilience of the sports economy. The Sports for People and Planet 2026 report highlights how the sports tourism sector has become the fastest-growing segment of the global tourism industry. It also provides case studies that demonstrate how sport can shape a future where prosperity is defined by healthier societies and thriving natural ecosystems.

Further information: https://www.weforum.org/publications/sports-for-people-and-planet/

Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, has launched its second annual report exploring the trends defining travel in 2026. The Tripadvisor Trendcast 2026 report reveals how travellers are seeking out experiences that spark real connection with places, passions, local experts, and their travel companions. The report is based on search, booking and behavioural data, along with user generated content from more than one billion reviews and contributions.

Further information:https://tripadvisor.mediaroom.com/2026-01-28-Tripadvisor-Trendcast-2026-Introduces-The-Year-of-Meaningful-Travel-Experiences

Accor’s booking platform and loyalty program has partnered with global trend forecasting agency Globetrender to unveil the findings of its latest report on experiential travel in 2026. The Experiential Travel Trends 2026 report identifies eight key trends reflecting the aspirations of a generation in search of freedom, authenticity, and emotional intensity. It was developed through a hybrid methodology combining foresight analysis, qualitative research and quantitative data supported by a consumer survey of 4,300 travellers across nine countries.

Further information: https://press.accor.com/all-accor-travel-trends-eng?lang=eng

Phocuswright has released its annual report that outlines data and trends which will shape the global travel industry including highlights by segment, channel, and consumer behaviour metrics. The Travel Forward: Data, Insights and Trends for 2026 report aims to equip industry stakeholders with the data needed to navigate the rapidly evolving travel landscape.

Further information: https://www.phocuswire.com/phocuswright-travel-forward-report-2026

A study from Amadeus has found that travellers across the world are turning to generative artificial intelligence more often, and over half are willing to shell out for an AI assistant. The Connected Journeys: How Technology Will Transform Travel in the Next Decade report included responses from 9,500 global travellers from China, France, India, Singapore, Spain, the U.K., and the U.S.

Further information: https://amadeus.com/en/resources/research/connected-journeys-how-technology-transforms-travel

Tourism Australia’s Destination Australia conference is being held at the Centrepiece, Melbourne on 18 March 2026. The event will see industry leaders address a range of topics including aviation, marketing and distribution trends, and market insights.

Further information: https://events.tourism.australia.com/destination-australia-2026

Registrations are open for the Perth Airport Western Australia Tourism Conference in Carnarvon from 25-27 May 2026. The event brings together government, marketing, events, attractions, aviation, accommodation, researchers, academics, and students.

Further information: https://tourismcouncilwa.com.au/events-training/2026-perth-airport-wa-tourism-conference-2026