Philippines VAT Refund Ruling: The Supreme Court upheld Republic Act 12079, allowing non-resident foreign tourists to claim VAT refunds on qualifying purchases (at least P3,000 per transaction), aiming to boost tourist spending and local products. UK Venues Upgrade: Work begins on a £9.4m upgrade to North Yorkshire’s Harrogate Convention Centre, expanding breakout space and improving facilities for large events. Local Tourism Planning: Greenville, US, starts work on its first 10-year Parks, Recreation and Tourism Master Plan after community feedback on trails, nature programming, and safety. China Rescue Story: A tourist in Shanxi survived after plunging 180ft and getting wedged in a cliff crevice for five hours. Dubrovnik Nautical Tourism: Dubrovnik logged nearly 88,000 nautical overnight stays in H1 2026, with the US leading arrivals. Japan Shrine Etiquette: A reminder for visitors: don’t walk in the gods’ path—stay to the left or right when entering shrine grounds. Greece Wine Tourism Push: Greece’s tourism minister backs wine tourism as a way to spread visitors, extend the season, and support local communities. Spain Summer Numbers: Spain is tracking toward ~100 million foreign tourists in 2026, with summer arrivals near 43 million and spending forecast around €64bn. India Security & Tourism: India’s anti-terror agency filed charges against LeT founder Hafiz Saeed over a Kashmir attack that targeted tourists. Uzbekistan Visitor Boost: Tashkent plans practical upgrades for nearly 3 million foreign visitors this year, including free digital maps, more public toilets, and extra bins.