Medical Tourism Boom in South Korea: Foreign card spending on medical services jumped 66.5% in July year-on-year to 213 billion won, with dermatology and plastic surgery still leading but pharmacy spending rising too—signaling broader demand. Digital Tourism Push (Saudi Arabia): The Ministry of Tourism launched a Unified Tourism Services Platform at LEAP 2026 to streamline licensing, compliance, investment and training, plus an AI “Tourism X” help service. Egypt’s Giza Upgrade: Egypt’s tourism minister inspected the tethered balloon project near the Pyramids, aiming for a 150-meter, 15-minute panoramic ride with safety and environmental safeguards. Tourism Policy Tightening (Bhutan): Bhutan reminded accommodation providers that only approved, certified stays can host tourists under TRR 2024, with non-certified overnight options prohibited. Anti-Tourist Backlash in Ibiza: More than 100 protesters flooded an “overcrowded” beach in Cala Saladeta, targeting holidaymakers and calling for stricter limits. Grand Canyon Crisis: Flash flooding damaged the Transcanyon Waterline (about 40% affected), with two deaths and around 15 missing as weather forecasts warn of more storms. Destination & Industry Moves: West Virginia won a U.S. Travel ESTO award for its 2026 Vacation Guide; Fort Pierre, South Dakota was selected for a destination development program; and Talbot County named Stephanie Mervine as its new economic development and tourism director.