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On today's Friday Q&A we discuss: 00:47 Tips on Brazilian birth tourism 9:50 How can I influence my wife to want to have more children? 30:00 How should I structure an AI curriculum for high schoolers? 53:00 What's the future for the financial advice business? 1:02:21 How do I help my children plan to take over the family business?
Hurricane Melissa just devastated Jamaica's tourism sector with a 73% drop in November arrivals. While everyone panics about dead tourism stocks, Dr. Matthew Preston and Dr. Thaon Simms ask a different question: Is this actually a buying opportunity?They break down every publicly traded tourism company on the JSE, analyzing Dolphin Cove's forced sale, Express Catering's airport shutdown, CPJ's hotel losses, and Everything Fresh's surprising resilience. Whether you're already invested or considering entry, discover which companies will bounce back fastest and which might quietly turn this crisis into a reset.Chapters:00:02 Why Hurricane Melissa Creates a Tourism Stock Decision00:47 The Tourism Stock Landscape on the JSE07:54 Dolphin Cove: Lost Dolphins, Reopening Timeline & The Forced Sale19:13 The Ocho Rios Port Reopening: Game Changer for Dolphin Cove24:55 CPJ Analysis: Million Dollar Losses Before the Hurricane Even Hit30:14 Everything Fresh: The Smarter Tourism Play? Diversification Pays Off44:01 Express Catering: 73% Passenger Drop & Airport Damage Impact55:25 Final Verdict: Winners, Losers & The Quiet Recovery Opportunities
learn five words related to tourism
We're talking to three Fascinating Ohioans who are connecting with the community through food, literature and tourism.
In this episode: A bill has begun moving in Florida's Republican-controlled Legislature that would forbid school districts from considering the artistic or literary value of books that fringe activists want banned from libraries. Plus: The state House advances a plan to make public school students watch anti-abortion cartoons while the state Senate tries to put more bureaucracy between laid-off workers and the unemployment benefits they earned. Those bills and more from Day 9 of Florida's 2026 legislative session. Show notesFollowing up on the two points that came up during the show: * Republican state Rep. Dana Trabulsy is from Fort Pierce (not Tampa)* Byron Donalds, the Republican Congressman running for Florida governor, has taken more than $1 million from Richard “Dick” Uihlein, a major funder of the Foundation for Government Accountability The bills discussed in today's show: House Bill 1119 — Materials Harmful to MinorsPassed the House Education Administration Subcommittee by a 13-5 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 4027 — Hillsborough County Public Schools, Hillsborough CountyPassed the House Education Administration Subcommittee by a 17-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1071 — EducationPassed the House Student Academic Success Subcommittee by a 12-5 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 216 — Verification of Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilityPassed the Senate Transportation, Tourism and Economic Development Appropriations Committee by a 9-5 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 433 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesPassed the House Commerce Committee by an 18-0 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 105 — Local Government Enforcement ActionsPassed the House Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee by a 16-0 vote (vote sheet)Stories and other resources discussed in today's show: Hillsborough school board grills superintendent on book removals (Tampa Bay Times) Under state threats, Hillsborough pulls transgender YouTuber's memoir (Tampa Bay Times) Is ‘Baby Olivia' headed to a school near you? Bills in several states would allow screenings of fetal development video. (19th News)Florida lawmakers are about to hand a revenge tool to a much-criticized industry | Opinion (Miami Herald editorial board)Stop Florida's Corporate “Food Gag” Bills (Stand for Health Freedom)A billionaire-backed think tank keeps sabotaging Florida workers. More attacks are coming. (Seeking Rents)Prodded by business lobbyists, lawmakers may cut more Floridians off from unemployment insurance (Seeking Rents)Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe
Fran Spielman hosts a conversation with Kristen Reynolds and Guy Chipparoni, the President & CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Choose Chicago, respectively. The discussion covers the financial challenges Chicago faces in competing with cities like Las Vegas and Orlando for conventions and tourism. Reynolds and Chipparoni emphasize the importance of marketing Chicago as a destination, regardless of season, highlighting winter activities, restaurant and theater weeks, and the potential of future significant events like the opening of the Obama Presidential Center.
We're talking to three Fascinating Ohioans who are connecting with the community through food, literature and tourism.
Need any advice or information, message us.We sit down with Rolando Campos, owner of Chayote Lodge and a 30-year tourism veteran, to unpack what really happened in Costa Rica's tourism sector in 2025. Rolando shares his outlook for 2026, where he sees the best investment opportunities, and the realities facing boutique hotels amid the continued evolution of luxury tourism in Costa Rica.Free 15 min consultation: https://meetings.hubspot.com/jake806/crconsultContact us: info@investingcostarica.comChayote Lodge: https://www.chayotelodge.com/
Show NotesAdam's doctoral thesis and time in the AmazonIatrogenesis and Healing CultureEpistemic HumilityOur Traumadelic StoriesClash in Understandings of CausationDisneyfication of Plant MedicineIndividual vs Relational HealingPsychedelic Tourism's Local ConsequencesSpirit Realm FalloutAnimistic PerspectiveNarrative, Cults, and Conspirituality Get full access to Chris Christou at chrischristou.substack.com/subscribe
In this special interview episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards sits down with Noam, a young woman from Tel Aviv who works with Israel's Ministry of Tourism and previously served in the Israeli military. Recorded on location in Shiloh—the historic site where the tabernacle once stood and where Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord—Noam shares her personal story of growing up in Israel, serving in the army as a photographer, and what life has been like for young adults during and after the recent war. In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Noam talks about: • Growing up in Tel Aviv and living in a mixed Jewish and Arab community in Jaffa • Why all Israeli young adults serve in the military and what that experience is like • How the war affected everyday life, work, and sleep with rockets and alarms • The emotional impact of October 7 and knowing friends who attended the Nova festival and never came home • The relief when hostages began to return • What it's like living with both resilience and uncertainty • Why, even after everything, she still says: "Israel is the best place in the world" • Her invitation to Christians to come experience the land of the Bible for themselves Doug also reflects on the biblical significance of Shiloh, where Samuel was dedicated to the Lord, and why hearing stories directly from the people who live in Israel brings Scripture, history, and current events together in a powerful way. This episode is especially valuable for: • Youth pastors and youth ministry volunteers • Christian educators and student leaders • Parents helping students process fear, conflict, and faith • Anyone wanting a real, human perspective on life in Israel today This is not a political episode. It is a personal story, a cultural conversation, and a window into the life of a young Israeli woman who loves her country, loves life, and believes in hope even after tragedy. ✨ Sometimes the best way to help students understand the world is to let them hear directly from the people who live in it. _________________________________________________________________________________
On today's episode of The Cabin Podcast, we're continuing our chat about inventions in Wisconsin with Apurba! From Harley Davidson to Road America, we're covering it all… Tune in now!The Cabin is presented by the Wisconsin Counties Association and this week we're featuring Barron County; https://bit.ly/3EUtWquThe Cabin is also presented to you by:GHT; https://bit.ly/3YigPJyHo-Chunk Nation; https://ho-chunknation.com/Shop DW; shop.discoverwisconsin.com
Episode DescriptionMark Pascal and Francis Schott share stories from recent travels through Ireland and Austria on this travel food podcast, exploring wine, history, and memorable restaurant experiences along the way. From pub culture and historic cities to standout meals abroad, the episode ends with a cautionary tale from a marina restaurant in Florida—and what it reveals about hospitality.The ConversationFrancis recounts his journey through Ireland and Austria, including visits with family and friends in Belfast, Dublin, and Vienna. He shares observations on pub culture, regional dining, wine, and historic landmarks, along with practical travel tips for Austria. The discussion highlights how context, culture, and the small details intersect when you travel well.The Inside TrackMark shares a cautionary tale from a marina restaurant in West Palm Beach, underscoring why location alone doesn't guarantee good hospitality. The episode closes with lessons on service, expectations, and what truly makes a restaurant worth returning to.Timestamps00:00 – Vacations in January03:30 – Ireland: Homey Pubs to Luxury Hotels7:40 – Ireland: Historic Sites While Traveling16:10 – Austria: The Place and People21:35 – Austria: Wine and Dining Recommendations32:40 – A cautionary tale from West Palm BeachInfoIrelandMrs. O's Bar at the Merchant Hotelhttps://www.themerchanthotel.com/AustriaHotel Topazz & Laméehttps://www.hoteltopazzlamee.com/Vinothekhttps://www.vinothek1.at/Heunisch & Erbenwww.heunisch.atThursday, February 5 Michter's Whiskey Tastinghttp://stageleft.com/event/2-5-26-michters-whiskey-tasting/Wednesday, February 25 Martinelli Wine Dinner https://www.stageleft.com/event/22526-wine-dinner-w-george-martinelli-of-martinelli-winery/ Become a Restaurant Guys' Regular!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401692/subscribeMagyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/Withum Accounting https://www.withum.com/restaurantOur Places Stage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/ Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/ Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/ To hear more about food, wine and the finer things in life:https://www.instagram.com/restaurantguyspodcast/https://www.facebook.com/restaurantguysReach Out to The Guys!TheGuys@restaurantguyspodcast.com**Become a Restaurant Guys Regular and get two bonus episodes per month, bonus content and Regulars Only events.**Click Below!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401692/subscribe
Many tour companies that specialize in faith-based travel, or tourism with a religious element or focus, have historically focused on trips to the Holy Land. But with the ongoing conflict in Israel, companies have shifted and pivoted, growing their portfolios elsewhere. After tours editor Brinley Hineman reported this story in December, we decided to re-engage here with David Welch, the vice president of business development at Educational Travel Services, to look at this very dedicated market. We talk about where faith-based tour groups are traveling these days – and also why people travel to explore their religion or faith. This episode was recorded Jan. 9 and has been edited for length and clarity. Episode sponsor: This episode is sponsored by the Globus family of brands https://www.globusandcosmos.com Related links: A devotion to faith-based travel https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/A-devotion-to-faith-based-travel Q&A with Sherif Fathy, Egypt's tourism minister https://www.travelweekly.com/On-The-Record/Sherif-Fathy-Egypt-minister-tourism-antiquities Tour operators welcome flocks of Jubilee travelers in 2025 https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Tour-operators-set-to-welcome-flocks-of-Jubilee-travelers From 2023: Tour operators suspend Israel departures and brace for hard times https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Tour-operators-suspend-Israel-departures ETS https://www.etstours.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Mitch Bach sits down with Marinel de Jesus, a former human rights lawyer turned tour operator.She is filled with questions about the adventure tour industry:Why do porters on the famous, touristy Inca Trail in Peru carry crushing loads for little pay and even less dignity? Why is it so difficult to find women adventure guides in so many parts of the world? What do indigenous communities actually want from tourism—and why doesn't anyone bother to ask them?These are just some of the uncomfortable questions and themes she's carried with her as she's lived and trekked around the world. Originally from the Philippines, she became a human rights lawyer in Washington D.C., spending 15 years prosecuting child protection and mental health cases. Then her mother passed away—and she never went back to the office. But Marinel didn't just start a tour company. She moved into indigenous communities. She lived with Quechua porters in Peru and learned the dark truths behind the picture-perfect Inca Trail. She spent nearly 300 days in Mongolia during Covid, co-creating a nomad camp that started with tea and a blank piece of paper—not a business plan. She walked 100 days across Nepal with Mingmar, a female guide she searched for over a year and a half to find, proving that women belong on the Great Himalaya Trail.This discussion challenges everything we assume about adventure tourism—the colonial narratives baked into our itineraries, the voices we never hear, the scripts we impose on communities who know how to welcome guests far better than we do. She makes the case for showing up with no agenda, listening before designing, and building something that matters more than scale.Marinel's organizations:Equity Global Treks (Brown Gal Trekker)The Porter Voice CollectiveHer vision for Himalayan Women Trail LeadersHer film KM82 on the Quechuan Porters of PeruThe Khusvegi English & Nomadic Culture Camp she helped start in MongoliaMore show notes and resources on tourpreneur.com
Chicago's brilliant plan: raise hotel taxes to the highest in America to *boost tourism*. If you had to read that five times, same. The city wants to jack hotel taxes from 17.5% to 19%—making it more expensive than anywhere else in the country—to generate $40 million for marketing "Choose Chicago." Because nothing says "come visit" like the nation's highest hotel tax, 10,000 businesses fleeing the area, massive property tax hikes, kids looting stores on the Magnificent Mile, and a person shot every 4 minutes. Meanwhile, Boeing just dumped their Chicago headquarters at a massive loss, and the Bears are looking to bolt for Indiana. But sure, let's compete with Vegas by making conventions MORE expensive. This isn't a misconception—it's reality. Does anyone on Chicago's city council understand basic economics? What business is going to choose the most expensive, most difficult city when Nashville and New Orleans are rolling out the red carpet? Let me know what you think in the comments. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this madness with anyone who still believes government makes sense.
Stephen Grootes speaks to Donald MacKay, Director at XA International Trade Advisors and Prof David Monyae, Director of the Centre for Africa - China Studies at the University of Johannesburg about the EU weighing €93 billion in retaliatory tariffs as tensions escalate over President Donald Trump’s threat of a 10% levy linked to Greenland. In other interviews, Steven Boykey Sidley, Partner at Bridge Capital and Professor of Practice at the Johannesburg Business School at University of Johannesburg about India’s central bank proposing closer links between BRICS nations’ official digital currencies, a move aimed at easing cross‑border trade and tourism payments while potentially reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar amid rising geopolitical tensions. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new set of trademark filings has raised fresh questions about Six Flags' long-term portfolio strategy. An entity called Enchanted Parks Holdings, LLC—linked to Orlando-based Innovative Attraction Management (IAM)—has filed trademarks incorporating the names of several current Six Flags properties, including Michigan's Adventure, Six Flags St. Louis, Oceans of Fun, Water Safari, and Great Escape Lodge. While trademark filings alone don't confirm transactions, the scope and specificity of these names suggest preparation for potential rebranding tied to asset transfers.That context matters. Since the merger closed, Six Flags has been explicit that not every park fits its future model. Management has already disclosed that a significant portion of legacy Six Flags parks underperform financially, and impairment charges taken in 2025 reinforced that reality. Rolling debt forward earlier this month bought the company time—but at a higher fixed cost—making portfolio simplification a logical lever if margins remain tight.We discuss what this could mean in practical terms: water parks and resort-adjacent assets may be easier to separate than full theme parks; complexes like Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun could potentially be split; and regional operators like IAM may be assembling multi-park portfolios under unified consumer-facing brands. None of this confirms sales—but it aligns with a long-signaled strategy to slim down, reduce capital intensity, and concentrate investment on fewer, higher-performing parks.The episode also looks at parallel signals elsewhere in the industry. Delta's earnings show premium cabins overtaking main cabin revenue for the first time, reinforcing the broader shift toward bifurcated markets. And Universal's newly announced Scooby-Doo and Universal Monsters walk-through for Fan Fest Nights illustrates how IP-driven, upchargeable experiences can add revenue without long-term balance sheet exposure—an approach increasingly relevant in a higher-rate environment.Taken together, the story isn't panic or distress. It's positioning. Trademark filings don't sell parks—but they often precede decisions. And in 2026, flexibility, optionality, and capital discipline are becoming as important as growth.Listen to weekly BONUS episodes on our Patreon.
China's Domestic Tourism Surges As Visitor Numbers and Spending Jump Sharply by Capital FM
Gov. Patrick Morrisey delivered his second State of the State address Wednesday night, giving lawmakers and the public a look at his priorities for the legislative session now underway. The post Morrisey Says Investments In Higher Ed, Roads, Tourism Are Keys For 2026, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.
The Government is investing $3.7 million to market New Zealand's regions internationally, encouraging visitors to travel beyond traditional hotspots during autumn and winter. However, critics warn infrastructure and environmental issues should be addressed before attracting more tourists. Tourism minister Louise Upston spoke to Lauren Crimp.
Join your horror hosts as they go off-course and into the Crawler's den. Connect with the BroadsConnect with BhavnaConnect with JamieChapters00:00 Introduction to The Descent02:56 First Impressions and Nostalgia06:06 Plot Overview and Initial Reactions09:00 Character Dynamics and Tension11:51 Cultural Commentary on Tourism and Adventure14:43 Female Representation and Character Choices17:50 Realism in Horror and Decision-Making20:48 Humor and One-Liners in The Descent23:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts23:58 Character Dynamics and Dialogue Quality24:48 Setting and Authenticity in Filmmaking28:43 Caving Nightmares and Personal Boundaries31:46 Betrayal and Trust Issues35:06 Escalation of Tension and Survival39:19 Final Confrontations and Character Growth42:11 Ending Reflections and Thematic InsightsKeywordsThe Descent, horror film, female representation, character dynamics, horror elements, final girl, movie review
On this episode of Spotlight Now, we talk tourism with the CEOs of Hawaiian Airlines and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB). Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow acknowledges that the Alaska-Hawaiian merger brought real challenges for travelers and promises a smoother 2026. Meanwhile Dr. Aaron Sala explains what the HVCB is doing in light of a softening tourism market with fewer visitors, more competition, and travelers watching their budgets. In our Community Spotlight, learn more about the Hawaii Pacific Health Women’s 10K & 5K Fun Run.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Society & Culture - Voyascape Media
Until 1984, there was no road connecting the oasis of Siwa and its 8,000 Bedouin residents with the rest of Egypt. Lost deep in the desert near the Libyan border, the country's most remote oasis was long unknown to tourists. But over the past decade, videos of visitors floating in turquoise salt lakes, climbing the 13th-century citadel or wandering through palm groves have flooded social media.
Tourists visiting France from outside the European Union now have to pay significantly higher entrance fees at some of the most popular sites in the country: €10 more at the Louvre museum and €3 more at the Palace of Versailles. This after a recent daytime heist at the Louvre exposed shortcomings in its maintenance and security systems. Plus, Ryanair's CEO has blasted what he called "stupid" passenger taxes in Brussels and said the company would reduce its flights to the city by 10 percent this year.
John Maytham speaks to Reynold Thakuli about the floods in Limpopo, affecting the Kruger National Park. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Waikato regional councillor says rising visitor numbers are damaging the Blue Spring near Putaruru, with rubbish clogging toilets, coins thrown into the water and unsafe parking. He wants an access fee and a share of the international tourist levy to help fund protection and upkeep of the popular site; Signs of rising confidence and a possible peak in unemployment may influence the Reserve Bank's February decision, with potential implications for mortgage rates and borrowers; As vehicle dashboards rely more heavily on touchscreens, concerns are growing about driver distraction. ANCAP says it will reward higher safety ratings to cars that reintroduce physical buttons for basic functions, encouraging drivers to keep their eyes on the road; Streaming services could be forking over cash to support local productions should Labour get into government; While teenagers up and down the motu are opening their NCEA results, they're joined by 10-year old Raymond Hsu. In 2025, Raymond was one of the few, and definitely one of the youngest students to sit both NCEA and Cambridge exams, receiving his first GCSE certificate.
Have you ever wondered about what creations come from Wisconsin? On today's episode of The Cabin Podcast, Apurba joins us to chat about the many things that have been invented and made popular in our state! Splinter-free toilet paper, malted milk, and so much more… tune in now!The Cabin is presented by the Wisconsin Counties Association and this week we're featuring Ashland County; https://www.wicounties.org/counties/ashland-county/The Cabin is also presented to you by:GHT; https://bit.ly/3YigPJyThe Del-Bar; https://www.del-bar.com/VISIT Lake Geneva; https://bit.ly/3LDyvx2
KeywordsItaly, Tuscany, Piedmont, Riviera, wine, food, travel, tourism, authentic experience, hidden gemsSummaryIn this conversation, Anthony Campopiano discusses the unique appeal of Italy's lesser-known regions, particularly Piedmont and the Riviera. He highlights how these areas offer a more authentic experience compared to the heavily touristed Tuscany, emphasizing the quality of food, wine, and the overall atmosphere.TakeawaysYou're getting Italy light with Tuscany's charm.Piedmont offers great food and fantastic wine.The Riviera provides a unique blend of sea and wine.Authenticity is key in less touristy areas.Travelers can enjoy beautiful vineyards in Piedmont.The experience is more real and less commercialized.Italy's hidden gems are worth exploring.Quality of food and wine is paramount.Tourism in Italy can be overwhelming in popular spots.Seek out the less traveled paths for true Italian culture.S05E06 From Lakes to Langhe: The Italian The Lap of Luxuryhttps://italywithbella.com
Tourism consultant Keith Vieira talks about the current state of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority; 2025 was deadliest year on Hawaiʻi roads in nearly two decades
We'll hear how current protests in Iran could impact the future of the country. Also, a look at tourism to the Golden State and what could bring international travelers back. Finally, record-breaking salmon run helps local ecosystems.
Despite record visitor numbers and hundreds of job opportunities, workers in Queenstown say the cost of living is making it increasingly difficult to stay. Katie Todd reports.
12 Jan 2025. What could it mean for markets and confidence in the US economy? We ask economist Jeanne Walters. Plus, UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri on changes to the Commercial Companies Law. China’s Consul General outlines Beijing’s next five-year plan and trade ties with the UAE. The DFSA’s new crypto token rules come into force today, Elizabeth Wallace explains what firms should expect. And driverless taxis move closer in Dubai as a new autonomous control centre goes live, Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A popular tourist area north of Queenstown has been cut off after engineers identified serious structural failures with Skippers Bridge. Jessica Hopkins reports.
A popular five-kilometre walkway and crystal-clear Blue Spring near Putaruru is drawing growing numbers of visitors, but also unsafe parking, rubbish, and damage to the area. South Waikato Mayor Gary Petley and regional leaders are calling for stronger management to protect the site as a valued taonga. Waikato Regional Council chairperson Warren Maher spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.
Sponsor Links:This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of Antigravity A1. Experience the future of flight with the world's first all-in-one 8K 360 drone. With intuitive controls and immersive goggles, the Antigravity A1 redefines what it means to fly. Check it out at AntigravityA1.This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. When you really need to do something about your online privacy, go with the best...NordVPN. Get our extra 4 months free offer by visiting Nordvpn.com/spacenutsNew Year, New Discoveries: Expandable Space Stations, Martian Caves, and Rogue PlanetsIn this exciting New Year edition of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson kick off 2026 with a bang, discussing groundbreaking developments in space exploration and astronomy. From innovative proposals for expandable space stations to intriguing discoveries on Mars, this episode is packed with cosmic insights.Episode Highlights:- Expandable Space Stations: Andrew and Fred dive into a fascinating proposal for an inflatable space station that could expand to be larger than the International Space Station. They explore the technology behind this concept and its potential implications for future space tourism and research.- Strange Caves on Mars: The duo discusses recent findings of unique caves on Mars that may have formed through water-driven processes. These caves could provide a habitat for microbial life, sparking interest in future rover missions to investigate their potential.- Observations of Rogue Planets: Andrew and Fred delve into the elusive nature of rogue planets, discussing how recent observations using gravitational microlensing have shed light on a planet 22 times the mass of Jupiter, located approximately 10,000 light years from Earth. They reflect on the significance of these findings and the advancements in technology that facilitate such discoveries.For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
To help us make sense of the 2025 numbers, the nationalities of tourists visiting, and their favourite spots in and around Cape Town, Amy MacIver speaks to Paula Martini, a seasoned travel journalist with deep insight into South African and global tourism trends. Paula will break down which destinations are leading the way, how the city’s accolades are shaping arrivals, and what these figures mean for the local tourism sector as the post-pandemic recovery continues. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Stories Worth Hearing, host John Quick welcomes Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, for a wide ranging conversation about leadership, innovation, and national identity. President Whipps reflects on what makes Palau a truly unique country, from its deep cultural roots and natural beauty to its close knit communities and global outlook.The conversation explores how President Whipps' background in business has shaped his approach to governing, with a focus on creating opportunity, strengthening the economy, and thinking creatively about Palau's future. He shares the vision behind Palau's Digital Residency Program and how digital innovation can connect the country to entrepreneurs and ideas around the world, while still honoring Palau's values of trust, responsibility, and stewardship.They also discuss Palau's recent economic momentum, the importance of sustainable growth, and the responsibility that comes with protecting one of the world's most remarkable marine environments. President Whipps speaks about Palau's role on the global stage, including why it is important for small island nations to have a strong voice in international conversations, especially around climate and long-term resilience.This is a hopeful, thoughtful episode about leadership with purpose and how a small nation can lead by example in a rapidly changing world.Learn more about Palau and explore the country discussed in this episode:• Official Government of Palauhttps://www.palaugov.pw/• Tourism in Palauhttps://pristineparadisepalau.com/
Condé Nast Traveler recently published a list of “The Best Places to Go in the US in 2026.” Associate director of articles Megan Spurrell shares their most budget and family friendly travel destinations.
The Hot Topics from Business Days at the Capitol Taxes, Energy, Mining, Tourism, Workforce The post The Hot Topics from Business Days at the Capitol first appeared on Voices of Montana.
If 2025 heralded a new Age of Uncertainty across global political landscapes and economic sectors, what does 2026 hold in store for South East Asia and the broader Asia Pacific region? And how will the myriad risks and uncertainties that emerged last year influence travel and tourism patterns in 2026? Was 2025 the end of days for many post-pandemic travel 'trends'? And what vital lessons did 2025 teach us for the rest of the decade? To kickstart 2026, Gary and Hannah analyse 12 topics, themes and developments that we think will shape travel economies in the 11 nations of ASEAN, plus India, China and Japan. No spoilers, but our broad-ranging discussion journeys from travel infrastructure investment to human-engineered tourism, and the fight for regulated (alternative) accommodation to the AI challenges that the travel industry is failing to confront. Plus, which two countries, one in South East Asia and one in North East Asia, do we expect to dominate the regional discourse in 2026 - and why? All this and much more as we preview a year that is harder than most to predict!
The wine movement is Armenia is "pedal to the medal." Katie bar the door, no holds barred. As it should be. And leading the helm are some tough no non-sense women. Sisian Boghossian is one of them. Clearly her commitment to her heritage country is firmly planted as her intentions when arriving in Yerevan were set on gaining some experience and returning to her home in Canada. Oops, sometimes the best laid plans of mice and women are derailed. In this episode of Wine Talks, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sirian Boghossian, who brought an incredible breadth of insight and personal experience to our conversation about Armenia—her homeland and her passion. The focus of the episode was on what makes Armenia an authentic, vibrant destination, especially beyond its capital, Yerevan. Sirian Boghossian immediately set the scene by sharing how the real beauty of Armenia lies in its regions, where the authenticity of its culture truly shines. It was inviting and heartfelt, and I could sense her pride in encouraging travelers to explore beyond the city. Our discussion dove into tourism and how post-Soviet Armenia is evolving, especially with growing international interest. It was eye-opening to learn how government strategies, infrastructure improvements, and a slow but steady climb in visitor numbers—particularly after bouncing back from Covid—are changing the perception of Armenia on the global stage. Sirian Boghossian broke down the challenges and successes and explained how diverse marketing efforts target both the diaspora and international tourists, touching on those untapped markets of Armenians who have never even visited their ancestral homeland. We also explored the culinary and nightlife explosion in Yerevan, shaped by influences from Syrian and Lebanese Armenians, and the shift toward Armenia being recognized as a safe, welcoming country with a deep-rooted sense of family and hospitality. From hiking spots to world-class cuisine, the reasons to visit Armenia are multiplying—and being discovered by publications like Forbes and Conde Nast. One of my favorite threads of the conversation was Armenia's blossoming wine industry and how wine tourism is putting the country on the map. We talked about the international events Armenia has hosted, like the UN Global Wine Conference and the upcoming prestigious wine competitions, which bring global experts right to Armenian soil. In this context, we touched on the stories of passionate winemakers and entrepreneurs—many of them women—who are shaping the industry and breaking molds in what is traditionally a patriarchal society. There was a delightful detour into culture and film, as Sirian Boghossian shared her involvement in "A Winter's Song," a Christmas romantic comedy shot in Armenia, which aims to showcase the country to a global audience—not just Armenians. We laughed about the unique joys and challenges of cultural exchange, and celebrated how accessible the arts and events are to the local public, from free outdoor concerts to dazzling holiday festivities. Throughout the episode, I felt a deep admiration for Sirian Boghossian's passion for her country and her commitment to helping Armenia evolve, not just through government and policy, but by bridging local and diaspora voices and talents. The episode closed on a hopeful note, reminding listeners that Armenia welcomes contributions of all sorts—whether through tourism, investment, or simply sharing in its vibrant culture. I left our conversation feeling inspired, moved by Sirian Boghossian's story and the powerful sense that Armenia's brightest days are ahead, fueled by its resilient and talented people. YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rlh_Lp_Me9w #WineTalks #Armenia #PaulKalemkiarian #SirianBoghossian #WineTourism #ArmenianWine #TravelArmenia #WomenInWine #HiddenGem #Diaspora #Yerevan #ArmenianCulture #TourismStrategy #Winemaking #UNWineConference #FilmInArmenia #WinterInArmenia #ArmenianFood #ArmenianHospitality #Entrepreneurship
On today's episode of The Cabin Podcast, we're talking all things Wisconsin food—where to eat, what to order, and what spots are absolutely worth the hype. Joining us is Josh Russell, AKA Dang, That's Awesome!, to help you plan your next delicious adventure.The Cabin is presented by the Wisconsin Counties Association and this week we're featuring Adams County; https://www.wicounties.org/counties/adams-county/The Cabin is also presented to you by:GHT; https://bit.ly/3YigPJyShop DW; shop.discoverwisconsin.comUniquely Wisconsin; https://discoverwisconsin.com/dw-uniquely-wisconsin/
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Send us a textDominican Republic Shatters Tourism Record with 11.6M Visits. Air & CruiseDominican Today December 2025 Visitor Records: https://www.traveltradecaribbean.es/en/dominican-republic-shatters-record-for-arrivals-with-11-6-million-visitors-in-2025/Bancus Crypto Debit Card Presentation
Listen to the latest weekly update from Nepal, including figures showing that tourist arrivals in 2025 crossed one million, reactions to the proportional representation lists submitted by political parties to the Election Commission, the Nepal Rastra Bank's newly introduced policies aimed at easing foreign investment and the death of boxer Nam Singh Thapa, one of the first Olympians to represent Nepal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. - सन् २०२५ मा करिब ११ लाख ५८ हजार पर्यटकले नेपाल भ्रमण गरेको सरकारी आँकडाले देखाएको छ। सन् २०२४ को तुलनामा पर्यटक आगमन ३.९ प्रतिशतले बढेको अधिकारीहरूले बताएका हुन्। त्यस्तै, दलहरूले निर्वाचन आयोगमा बुझाएको समानुपातिक सूचीबारे टिप्पणी, राष्ट्र ब्याङ्कले विदेशी लगानी भित्र्याउन र बाहिर लैजान सहज हुन ल्याएको नीति र नेपालले सहभागिता जनाएको पहिलो ओलम्पिकमा प्रतिस्पर्धा गरेका बक्सर नामसिंह थापाको निधन लगायत गत सात दिनका नेपालका प्रमुख समाचारहरू सुन्नुहोस्।
This episode is structured as an environmental SWOT analysis of the attractions industry, intended to support 2026 strategic planning. Rather than focusing on individual announcements or company-specific outcomes, we identify the external forces currently shaping the business environment—capital flows, guest behavior, technology, politics, and global development patterns. The purpose is not to predict results, but to help teams assess which of these factors represent strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or threats for their own organizations as they begin planning for the year ahead.Several conditions stand out. The largest capital projects are increasingly outside the United States, with major licensed developments underway or announced in Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, the U.K., Europe, and Asia. Guest expectations are fragmenting. A K-shaped economy is pushing design and pricing toward two ends of the spectrum—value-driven guests focused on affordability and VIP guests focused on convenience and time savings.“Creature comforts” such as better food, transparent pricing, and reduced friction are becoming baseline expectations, while museums and indoor attractions are gaining ground as guests seek reliability amid extreme weather and travel uncertainty.External pressures add further complexity: tariffs, immigration policy, volatility in international tourism, political instability, and declining trust in institutions and AI.Media consumption is shifting as well—social platforms now rival or surpass traditional outlets as primary sources of information. This episode does not attempt to rank these forces or offer solutions. It is meant to serve as a starting framework—a way for teams to pressure-test assumptions, identify blind spots, and begin structured conversations about where to invest, where to hedge risk, and where flexibility will matter most in 2026.Listen to weekly BONUS episodes on our Patreon.
As a special year-end episode of the Slow Flowers Podcast, you're invited to join me today in conversation with garden tour producer Lois Moss, and my dear friend, Lorene Edwards Forkner, artist, author, and regular contributor to the Seattle Times. Together, we are planning a one-of-a-kind botanical tour in Spring 2026 – a unique Slow […] The post Episode 749: Floral Tourism visits historic gardens and modern-day flower festivals of Holland and Belgium, with Debra Prinzing, Lorene Edwards Forkner and Lois Moss appeared first on Slow Flowers Podcast with Debra Prinzing.
On today's episode of The Cabin Podcast, we're joined by our friends Richie and Bre from Milwaukee Uncut to look back on our favorite Wisconsin memories from 2025 and share what's already on our 2026 Wisconsin bucket lists. From standout moments to future adventures, this episode is all about celebrating the places and experiences that make Wisconsin special. Tune in now.The Cabin is presented by the Wisconsin Counties Association and this week we're featuring Chippewa County; LINKThe Cabin is also presented to you by:GHT; https://bit.ly/3YigPJyShop DW; shop.discoverwisconsin.comUniquely Wisconsin; https://discoverwisconsin.com/dw-uniquely-wisconsin/
In this episode of Amateur Traveler, host Chris Christensen talks with AJ Ajay, a Libyan-born travel professional and founder of Intu Libya, about traveling to one of North Africa's least-visited and most misunderstood destinations: Libya. From spectacular Roman ruins to Saharan oases, ancient Amazigh towns, and the vibrant streets of Tripoli, AJ explains why Libya rewards travelers who are curious, respectful, and willing to look beyond headlines. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel here. Why Visit Libya? Libya offers a rare sense of discovery. With tourism largely undeveloped since the mid-20th century, many of its historic sites feel untouched. AJ describes Libya as a country where Roman, Greek, Phoenician, Ottoman, Italian, and Islamic histories overlap, often in the same physical space. Add to that Mediterranean coastline, vast Saharan landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions of hospitality, and Libya becomes a destination for travelers seeking something truly different. Safety, Visas, and Practicalities Chris and AJ address the elephant in the room: safety and travel advisories. AJ explains how Libya currently operates with an electronic visa system that requires a local sponsor and organized itinerary. Tourism is tightly coordinated with authorities, and travel routes are planned in advance. While some regions remain off-limits, AJ emphasizes that millions of Libyans live their daily lives safely and that guided travel within approved areas is the key to visiting responsibly. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-libya/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Over the course of its 200 year history, the lighthouse on Wood Island in Maine has been home to a celebrity dog, a grisly murder, some mischievous ghosts, and a monster storm that may or may not have been brought on by a pickpocket's curse.Learn more about Wood Island Lighthouse on their website (here's Richard's book.)Want to hear more stories of mega storms, heroic sea rescues, and maybe even some more lighthouse ghosts? Here's some information about Maine's 60 historic lighthouses.It's Maine Week on the show, so every day we're introducing you to someone from that great state — people who live, and work, and get inspired by Maine's rugged beauty. This episode was produced in partnership with the Maine Office of Tourism. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.