Arts & Heritage Investment: Namibia’s VP Lucia Witbooi urged bigger funding for arts, culture and heritage, saying creative industries can drive jobs, entrepreneurship and tourism. Tourism Demand Shift: China’s National Day holiday is still booming, with 19.27M rail trips in one day and signs travelers are booking longer, multi-city, experience-led itineraries. Visitor Economy Watch: Georgia hit a record 175.6M visitors in 2025, supporting 473,837 jobs and $84.1B in total economic impact. Cruise Momentum: Puerto Plata will host 38 cruise ships in October (18 at Amber Cove, 20 at Taíno Bay), while Ireland’s Kinsale is set for at least six cruise calls next year. Travel Disruption & Safety: Hawaii’s Waiʻānapanapa State Park reopened?—no, it was closed during Tropical Storm Nolo after a visitor entered a locked area; officials cite flash-flood and debris risks. Overtourism Tensions: Spain saw anti-tourist housing protests turn violent, with clashes in Madrid and Valencia. Policy & Product: Odisha launched India’s first MICE incentive portal to speed approvals and market the state for corporate events. Destination Spotlight: The Dominican Republic topped the Caribbean in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index.