Tourism Growth & Strategy: South Africa’s faith tourism is getting fresh academic backing, with North-West University researchers arguing religious and sacred travel could drive sustainable jobs and local economies. Cruise-to-Land Linkages: Global Ports Holding says Caribbean destinations should treat cruise ports as gateways to wider land-based experiences, not just arrivals. Medical Tourism Perks: Thailand’s “Health Excellence 2026” is partnering with Siam Piwat and Huawei’s HarmonyOS to offer wellness privileges to medical tourists. New Transport for Visitors: India’s Ramnagar–Dehradun Express begins bi-weekly service, aiming to boost tourism and pilgrimage connectivity. Air Tourism Launch: Bihar’s CM flags off helicopter joyrides from Patna, with short skyline and temple routes priced for tourists. Regional Tourism Upgrades: Oman’s Dhofar opens Atin Square and Shaat Viewpoint for Khareef-season visitors. Travel Safety & Enforcement: Albania ramps up noise patrols to protect locals and tourists during summer. Tourist Crime/Disputes: Spain police arrest a woman accused of leaving a Canary Islands all-inclusive resort without paying a €2,483 bill. Visa Rules: Iran publishes a list of 27 visa-free tourism countries, including six African nations. Tourism Economy Watch: Jordan reports 1.31M tourist-site visits in H1, with Petra leading. Tourism Under Pressure: Laos says it can’t determine blame in 2024 methanol-linked deaths because families blocked autopsies. Environmental Strain: Jammu & Kashmir’s Forest Department clears plastic waste from Brenwar as visitor numbers rise. Wildlife Incident: A Canadian tourist is injured in a bear attack at Fukushima’s Goshikinuma Ponds. Tourism Governance: Monaghan County Council plans cross-border coordination to maximize benefits from Ulster Canal restoration. Tourism Costs: A UK report finds Portugal’s Algarve among the cheapest European resorts for family holiday staples.