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World Tourism Day 2024: Exploring the 10 most peaceful countries on Earth

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> and Maldives have signed an agreement to introduce the <keyword id="19998949" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Unified-Payments-Interface" source="keywords">Unified Payments Interface</keyword> in the archipelago nation, which will have a "very positive" impact on its <keyword id="20260982" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism-sector" source="keywords">tourism sector</keyword>, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Friday during Jaishankar's three-day official visit to the Maldives. "Witnessed signing of MoU between (the) National Payments Corporation of India and (the) Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Maldives on (the) introduction of (a) digital payment system in the Maldives," he said in a post on X. Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (<keyword id="19998946" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NPCI" source="keywords">NPCI</keyword>), Unified Payment Interface (UPI) is an instant real-time payment system to facilitate inter-bank transactions through mobile phones. Addressing a press conference with his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer after their "productive discussions", Jaishankar said that India, through its UPI, has "revolutionised digital transactions". Stressing that it has taken financial inclusion in India to new levels, he said "Today 40 per cent of the world's real-time digital payments take place in our country." "We see this revolution, every day in our lives. I am pleased to note that with the signing of the MoU today, we have taken the first step towards bringing this digital innovation to Maldives," he said. "I wish the very best to stakeholders on both sides and hope that we will soon see the first UPI transaction here. I should mention that it will have a very positive impact on tourism," he added. Tourism is the main source of economic activity for the Maldives, contributing nearly 30 per cent of the GDP and generating more than 60 per cent of foreign exchange. Jaishankar's visit aims to reset the bilateral relationship with the Maldives and is the first high-level trip from India after the archipelago nation's pro-China president, Mohamed Muizzu, assumed office last year. "India's partnership with the Maldives is based on our deep desire to work together for each other's welfare and interests. It is a partnership that has enabled us to always swiftly and effectively respond to challenges, as witnessed in the past," Jaishankar said. "It is a partnership that has enabled us to deliver results and bring tangible benefits to our people in accordance with their wishes, aspirations and priorities," he said. In a post on X, Jaishankar also said, "Jointly inaugurated six High Impact Projects in areas of street lighting, mental health, children speech therapy and special education." "Welcome renewal of MoU between National Centre for Good Governance and Civil Services Commission on (the) training of additional 1,000 civil services officers," he added. Addressing the joint press conference, Maldivian Foreign Minister Zameer said, "India has always been one of our closest friends and a vital development partner." He said the "enduring friendship" was built on a foundation of mutual trust and respect and has continued to flourish over the years. "High-level exchanges between our countries have deepened our dialogue and cooperation in areas of shared interest. We remain dedicated to strengthening and advancing this mutually beneficial partnership," he said. "Minister Dr Jaishankar and I agreed that much more needs to be done to promote trade and investment between the Maldives and India," he said, adding that both sides are committed to establishing "effective mechanisms to enhance economic cooperation, fostering a vibrant and prosperous partnership that will benefit both the nations." Zameer said he conveyed President Muizzu's proposal to begin negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between the Maldives and India. "This agreement alongside other economic and trade-related agreements will facilitate trade liberalisation and ease the risks of doing business in both our countries," he said. Zameer said that India and Maldives have also mutually agreed to further strengthen their partnership by continuing joint exercises and expanding training opportunities for officers from both countries, asserting that this reflects "our commitment to working together to ensure the security of our nations as well as ensuring the safety and stability of the Indian Ocean region." India's relations with the Maldives suffered a major setback last year when President Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel manning three aviation platforms in the Maldives. Subsequently, the Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians by May 10, the mutually agreed date. "On regional and multilateral issues of importance, our countries have a common understanding and are united in our efforts to resolve them. We agreed to continue our cooperation on issues ranging from combating terrorism, violent extremism, drugs, human trafficking and to the promotion and protection of human rights," Zameer said. In his press statement, Jaishankar said that India and the Maldives "are not just close neighbours, we are also natural partners." "Today, we are mutually invested in each other's development and progress. In a globalised and interconnected world, we see a lot of volatility and global tensions. Even as the world is recovering from the impact of the COVID pandemic, we have been confronted with new challenges arising from international conflicts," he said. In this tumultuous environment, India has been and will be, an anchor of stability for its friends, partners and neighbours. To the Maldives specifically, India has provided support to deal with economic challenges through financial assistance and budgetary support, and by ensuring an uninterrupted supply of critical items, he noted. India's actions have been and will continue to be guided by its firm commitment to the philosophy of 'Sabka Saath, Sabke Vikas - which is- Together, we prosper', Jaishankar said. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/brainbees-solutions-firstcry-ipo-allotment-how-to-check-allotment-ipo-gmp-listing-date-and-more/articleshow/112403576.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/brainbees-solutions-firstcry-ipo-allotment-how-to-check-allotment-ipo-gmp-listing-date-and-more/articleshow/112403576.cms" target="_blank">Brainbees Solutions (Firstcry) IPO allotment – How to check allotment, IPO GMP, listing date and more</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank">India’s wearables market decline for the first time as smartwatch shipments fall</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank">Ola wants to re-enter the quick commerce business to take on Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart</a>

India to introduce UPI payment service in Maldives

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Popular tourist destinations in Greece are struggling with overcrowding.</li><li>Athens is plagued by high rents and short-term rentals, while the islands contend with cruise ships.</li></ul>An anti-cruise rebellion is afoot in popular tourism destinations in Greece.Boats full of tourists who arrive on the island, crowd the streets, and leave trash have led to the "worst season" ever, locals say.It's a story mirrored across Europe this summer, with anti-tourist protests breaking out in famous hot spots.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/photos-of-protesters-rallying-against-overtourism-in-barcelona-2024-7">In Barcelona</a>, locals have sprayed holiday-makers with water pistols and shouted at them to go home, blaming them for the city becoming unlivable due to high rent prices and apartments being turned into Airbnbs.In Athens and Greek islands, such as Santorini, there's a similar sentiment growing.<h2 id="361e29f8-09c9-466c-953e-69689735c123">Crowded monuments</h2>Vivian Antypa, an archaeologist and tour operator in Athens, told Business Insider that she loves working in tourism and meeting people from all over the world. But her job has become "challenging" recently."The government hasn't put any limitations to the number of people that can visit the monuments," she said, except for the 20,000 person cap to the Acropolis, which was <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.euronews.com/travel/2023/08/03/greeces-acropolis-cap-on-daily-visitors-and-staggered-entry-times-starting-in-september">implemented last year</a>.All the other archaeological sites in the city are "extremely crowded," Antypa said."This, of course, affects the quality of our work, the experience of the people," she said. "It can be dangerous due to the hot Greek weather."The number of tourists visiting Greece increased by 120% between 2019 and 2023, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://fortune.com/europe/2024/07/09/mayor-of-athens-overtourism-greece-not-viable-visitor-tourism-economy/">Fortune reported</a>, with 33 million tourists heading to the country last year.Antypa said overtourism in Athens is a problem because the city can't accommodate the large numbers of people in the high season.As a result, the center is full of traffic and crowds, which makes it <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxXnr-nRcwU">hard for locals</a> to live their daily lives.<div type="image" title="Tourists at the Propylaea, the entrance of the Athenian Acropolis." height="1500" width="2000" msid="112347386" hostid="261" sizebytes="233924"></div>There are also not enough establishments to accommodate all the people, which has boosted the short-term rental market."That has caused a big disruption for the locals," Antypa said. "People cannot find apartments for long-term renting, and the ones that can be rented are usually extremely overpriced and in poor conditions."<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/real-estate/1237905/why-are-rental-rates-skyrocketing/">According to the Greek news outlet Kathimerini</a>, investors are turning entire apartment blocks in Athens's districts of Pangrati and Koukaki into short-term rental units.Rental rates in Pangrati have increased by 14.3% compared to last year, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.tovima.com/finance/greek-property-market-surge-piraeus-leads-nationwide-price-increases-in-q2-2024">the Greek newspaper To Vima reported</a>. House prices are also soaring, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-17/why-athens-home-prices-are-rising-faster-than-other-european-cities">according to Bloomberg</a>.Tourists and locals are equally disappointed in the ramifications of over-tourism, Antypa said, which "sets the standards of the Greek hospitality way back."On TikTok, there's a heated debate between vacationers and locals at top tourist sites. Visitors complain about crowds and dirty streets and share their disappointment about their trip not meeting their expectations. In response, locals call them out for being "ungrateful" and implore them to consider their part in it all.Tourist activities make up 25-30% of the Greece's GDP. Harris Doukas, the mayor of Athens, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.euronews.com/2024/07/08/overrun-athens-how-the-greek-capital-is-finding-solutions-to-the-tourist-influx">told Euro News</a> that "Each visitor brings €0.40 to the city.""And we haven't seen this money yet," he said. "We need sustainable tourism that doesn't worsen city inequalities."<h2 id="3fabe98d-4c04-4ec8-981f-edecb0962ad4">A crackdown on cruises</h2>Antypa said <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cruise-ships-environmental-impact-tourism-2019-9">cruise ships</a> are a big part of the problem. People aboard follow "a very specific pattern" in Athens, where they arrive very early in the morning and head straight to the landmarks. This causes traffic, queues, and "horrific crowds," she said.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/syros-greece-underrated-better-than-mykonos-santorini-what-to-do-2024-4">The islands</a> are also impacted. Nikos Drosos, a tour guide who owns the Santorini-based travel company Santo Luxury Escape, told BI, "This is one of the worst seasons that the island has had right now.""There are a lot of cruise ships and a lot of people, like 15,000 per day," Drosos said.When they arrive, the main streets are packed with buses, and people leave behind "a lot of garbage," Drosos said."Because they eat on the ship, they don't buy any souvenirs or eat in the restaurants," he added. "That's the problem for us here."<div type="image" title="A ship full of tourists socks in Santorini." height="3515" width="5272" msid="112347392" hostid="261" sizebytes="751520"></div>Drosis believes there wouldn't be an overcrowding problem if more people stayed on the island for a few days at a time."In fact, we want the people to stay more on the island," he said.<h2 id="256be5cb-54bc-402a-b01d-11950f0c69ca">Priced out</h2>The answer may not be so simple, though, as islands, including Santorini and Mykonos, have become more expensive due to their idyllic landscapes and Instagrammable views, leading to an influx of designer stores <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/where-to-stay-in-santorini-greece-best-hotels">and even a Nobu</a>.Those who may wish to come may not be able to afford a stay there."There is a real problem when locals, both those that live in a place year-round or wish to visit family and friends, are priced out," Richard Krieger, the director at Sky Vacations, told BI. "You only have to look at the prices of hotels and accommodation in the most well known places in Greece to see how expensive things have become."He added that it's not just the most famous destinations. Small towns like Katakolon in the Peloponnese can become "a nightmare when ships pull in and the crowds pour into the streets," Krieger said.Antypa said she has heard similar stories in her industry, and that the majority of visitors on the islands are not spending money there."The islands have started to lose their authenticity, their individualistic fingerprint," she said.<div type="image" title="Tourists taking photos in Santorini" height="2930" width="4395" msid="112347388" hostid="261" sizebytes="653516"></div>Krieger said implementing fees that support the tourism infrastructure and promoting the entire country as a destination is part of the solution."Our collective effort is needed to ensure that the beauty of the country remains unharmed and that by visiting in a responsible manner, we support local communities and help them thrive," he said.In June, Greece's prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-06-14/greece-prime-minister-ready-to-cap-cruise-ships-at-most-popular-islands?sref=PKlsHl88">told Bloomberg</a> the country was <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/greece-restricting-cruise-ship-santorini-mykonos-tourist-compaints-2024-6">moving to limit the number of cruise ships</a> allowed to stop at the most popular islands.Drosos said this will be "good in some ways.""It's going to be better for some people," he said. "The big tour companies with the big buses, I don't think they're going to like it, but it's for their own good, for everyone."Antypa said a response "is just a response," and she wants to see the government take the next step by committing to sustainable growth and protecting Greece's environment and culture."This has been the goal of many European countries for years," she said. "If the government takes action toward the right direction, we can make tourism better for the tourists and the locals."

Greece is in the middle of an anti-cruise rebellion, with locals complaining about over-tourism and trashed streets

Bengaluru, Driven by a surge in travel, there has been a 50 per cent surge in hiring for tourism and hospitality jobs between December 2022 and 2023 in <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>, according to a report on Wednesday. The report by Indeed, a global hiring and matching platform, also revealed that blue-collar hiring in the tourism and hospitality industry witnessed an overall 8 per cent increase. The rise not only signals a noteworthy post-pandemic recovery but also reflects a promising future for the industry while underscoring the job market's adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving global trends. The <keyword id="20223693" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-travel-and-tourism-council" source="keywords">World Travel and Tourism Council</keyword> (WTTC)'s Economic Impact Research predicted India to become the third most influential market in the Travel and Tourism industry globally. As per Indeed's data, hiring in the tourism industry peaked in October 2023 with a 61 per cent rise as compared to December 2022. This can be attributed to multiple reasons such as October being a popular time for tourism owing to weather changes propagating hill station visits, festive season and more. Top cities leading the upsurge in hiring include <keyword id="19906633" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="delhi-ncr" source="keywords">Delhi NCR</keyword> (23 per cent) Mumbai (5.19 per cent), Bengaluru (6.78 per cent). Overall, these cities take the lead in a variety of tourism-related industries by leveraging their distinct commercial, technological, and cultural advantages. Other cities, including <keyword id="19897309" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pune" source="keywords">Pune</keyword> (2.33 per cent) and Kochi (2.41 per cent), also contributed significantly to the increase. "As we approach National Tourism Day, we must recognise the favorable employment outlook and honour the vibrant spirit of exploration, cross-cultural exchange, and economic advancement owing to the increased hiring prospects," said <keyword id="19979300" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sashi-kumar" source="keywords">Sashi Kumar</keyword>, Head of Sales at Indeed, in a statement. "This rise across cities reflects their adaptability and the economic growth that the tourism sector brings to the workforce," he added. The hospitality and tourism industry has also noted a shift in the priorities of travellers in 2023 with factors like sustainability and hygiene coming to the forefront. Travellers are now more specific about their itineraries and aim for reduction of energy consumption during their travel, by embracing nature and enjoying local experiences. Automation has also entered certain areas where many are indulging in virtual reality tours and booking tickets via chatbots. The tourism sector is shaping as per these new patterns and job creation is taking place accordingly, the report said.

Travel surge drives 50% rise in hospitality jobs in India: Indeed

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Oil prices ended down 7% last week and are lower this year-to-date, despite Middle East tensions.</li><li>China's economic downturn, the US shale boom, and clean energy are contributing to current oil price trends.</li></ul>The oil markets aren't what they used to be, and two of the world's biggest producers of the commodity are feeling the pressure.Oil prices have been depressed this year because <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oil-price-today-middle-east-israel-hezbollah-conflict-china-economy-2024-10">China</a> — the world's largest oil importer — is in a prolonged economic downturn. The US' massive boom in oil production over the last 15 years has also kept prices low.Now, Saudi Arabia and Russia are both trying to diversify their economies away from energy, which makes up about 40% and 20% of their GDP, respectively.With the shift, Saudi Arabia and Russia are trying to create new economic engines that can sustain the country for decades, Abishur Prakash, the founder of The Geopolitical Business, a strategy advisory firm in Toronto, told Business Insider.The existential reorientation comes amid what Prakash terms a "geopolitical misalignment," even in the face of a potential supply disruption."The reality is that Middle Eastern oil supplies are in the bull's-eye of geopolitics. A potential back-and-forth between Israel and Iran, which is increasingly likely, will draw in the region's energy ecosystem," he said.But this year, markets have largely shrugged off supply concerns stemming from the Middle East conflict — a break from history, when regional problems sent prices higher.<h2 id="45bcbf13-524d-48a5-aa00-144efa7dd75c">Moving away from oil</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=709&amp;t=6.">Saudi Arabia and Russia</a> tied for the world's second-largest oil producer after the US. Last year, they each accounted for 11% of the world's oil supply.While Saudi Arabia and Russia are still the world's top oil exporters, the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=61584">US — which posted record oil shipments in 2023 — is fast becoming a competitor</a> for market share.In 2016, Saudi Arabia launched a grand <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/vision-2030-saudi-arabia-plan-future-proof-oil-economy-2023-8">Vision 2030</a> plan to transform its oil-dependent economy into a more diversified one that includes tourism and sports as key growth pillars.Recently, the kingdom has been indicating that it's frustrated with low oil prices. It's giving up its $100 per barrel price target and is ready to increase oil output, the <a target="_blank" rel=" nofollow" class="" href="https://www.ft.com/content/1d186f62-5941-4f9e-aef1-7d93a8a696cd">Financial Times</a> reported in late September.This means that Saudi Arabia is looking to corner a larger market share instead of targeting higher profit margins by restricting output.Russia has also expressed a desire to stop over-relying on oil exports."We are moving towards reducing the share of volatile income and reducing Russia's dependence on oil and gas in favor of boosting our domestic economy," Anton Siluanov, Russia's finance minister, told <a target="_blank" href="https://russian.rt.com/business/article/1379636-minfin-anton-siluanov-intervyu">RT Television's Arabic</a> service earlier this month.He said that Russia would instead aim to boost its domestic economy but did not specify how.Russia is already moving its trade eastward to address Western sanctions. <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.energyintel.com/00000192-ae46-dc01-adba-efff87000000">Saudi Arabia,</a> too, is looking to sell more oil to developing countries, whose electric vehicle adoption lags behind China and the West.Asia's emerging economies are expected to drive <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/global-oil-demand-prices-supply-opec-us-crude-producers-iea-2024-6">global oil demand</a> over the rest of the decade, as the world's consumption rises from 101.7 million barrels a day in 2023 to 105.6 million barrels per day by 2030, according to a June report from the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.iea.org/news/slowing-demand-growth-and-surging-supply-put-global-oil-markets-on-course-for-major-surplus-this-decade">International Energy Agency</a>.<h2 id="6ae61431-8898-4c52-9abf-24b4a2055996">Prices, renewable energy, and the US all play a role</h2>Despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East over fears of a widening war, oil prices haven't been on the climb.To be sure, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/oil-price-prediction-brent-crude-israel-iran-opec-demand-citi-2024-10">oil prices could still</a> soar if the issues in the Middle East worsen.And there were several price spikes — such as in early October over concerns that Iranian oil facilities could be hit and in August over tensions in the Middle East — but they were shortlived. Oil prices dropped about 7% last week after the concerns subsided.International benchmark <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/commodities/oil-price">Brent</a> crude futures are down about 4% this year to date to around $74 a barrel, and US <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/commodities/oil-price?type=wti">West Texas Intermediate</a> futures are down 1.3% so far this year to around $70 a barrel.A key contributor to the price trend comes from the US, which has witnessed a significant rise in oil production over the last 15 years following the shale oil boom.Matthew Huber, a Syracuse University professor who specializes in energy, climate politics, and resource geography, said the US has nudged Saudi Arabia out of its role as a swing producer."I think the US has now overtaken this role and because we're not in the Middle East, geopolitical conflict there is less impactful," Huber added.Then there's renewable energy."The explosion of electric vehicle adoption in China (and presumably or eventually in the US and Europe) means the writing is on the wall and we're going to reach 'peak demand' for oil sometime soon," said Huber. "It was always a good idea to diversify one's economy away from just oil but now more than ever."<h2 id="f0b0eb00-b6b7-4f2f-9acd-d2d555ca6010">The role of OPEC</h2>The changing dynamics of oil also sharpens the long-standing question of OPEC's influence and relevance. The oil producer group led by Saudi Arabia accounts for about 30% of global crude production."It goes in cycles. They were obviously relevant in the 1970s when they were able to increase prices almost single-handedly," said Huber."But the problem is when oil prices spike, it sends oil companies searching for temporarily profitable oil," he added, referring to the US shale boom as the most recent example.OPEC also faces rifts within its members, who have competing priorities."The big question now is whether OPEC members are all aligned in terms of oil targets," said The Geopolitical Business's Prakash, who added that not all OPEC members may be on board with Saudi Arabia's plan to boost production.A potential Trump presidency in the US could drive <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/stock-market-election-impact-trump-win-election-financials-energy-rbc-2024-10">domestic oil and gas production.</a>"If OPEC can't bring everybody together, and members go their separate ways, it will lead to a further polarization of the Middle East," said Prakash."Instead of energy bringing the region together, like it did in the past, energy coupled with geopolitics could fragment the Middle East," he said.

2 of the world's biggest oil producers are looking for new ways to power their economies

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Disney unveiled plans to expand its theme parks, including Walt Disney World, at its D23 fan event.</li><li>Villains Land is coming to Magic Kingdom alongside two attractions based on the movie "Cars."</li></ul>Disney Experiences Chairman <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/disney-experiences-unprecedented-expansions-parks-resorts-d23/">Josh D'Amaro</a> unveiled ambitious plans for Walt Disney World, including new attractions and in-park destinations.D'Amaro presented the plans to the company's most ardent supporters on Saturday at <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-upcoming-prequels-and-sequels-box-office-d23-bob-iger-2024-8">D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event</a> in Anaheim, California. The expo, which comes every two years, is a coveted event for Disney enthusiasts, including cross-fandom franchises like <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/star-wars-billy-dee-williams-blackface-laurence-olivier-othello-2024-4">"Star Wars"</a> from Lucasfilm and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/every-marvel-comics-movie-ranked-by-critics-2022-6">"The Avengers"</a> from Marvel Studios.A-list celebrities often take the stage to promote upcoming projects, and Disney executives typically use the platform to unveil major announcements to delighted fans.<div type="image" title="People attend D23 in August 2024." height="3265" width="5000" msid="112450051" hostid="261" sizebytes="821354"></div>This weekend was no different."Disney Experiences is embarking on an accelerated path of ambitious growth and innovation," he said in a press release. "With so many great Disney stories to tell, we're excited to bring an unprecedented number of new projects to life in the near future."D'Amaro discussed a wide-scale expansion at Walt Disney World in Central Florida. Magic Kingdom will become home to Villains Land, where guests will spend time with Disney's most notorious baddies.The villain-centric land is a victory for Disney fans who've rallied behind the idea on Reddit and other forums for years.Two attractions based on the "Cars" franchise will also arrive at Magic Kingdom: an off-road rally race and a family-friendly ride."As we develop the next generation of Disney Experiences, we're always looking for new ways to tell the stories people love," D'Amaro said. "We're thrilling Cars fans by building on this incredibly successful franchise and creating the next chapter in this story."<div type="image" title="Disney, Magic Kingdom" height="1293" width="2000" msid="112450054" hostid="261" sizebytes="336908"></div>Magic Kingdom isn't the only Florida-based park undergoing renovations.The company is building a new land in Animal Kingdom called Tropical Americas, which includes a village in a rainforest called Pueblo Esperanza. Guests will be able to adventure with Indiana Jones in a Mayan temple.A new "Encanto" attraction is joining the roster, too. It will be the first ride-through attraction for "Encanto" and will take place inside Casita.Tropical Americas opens in 2027.At Hollywood Studios, Pixar fans can explore a new land based on Monsters, Inc. Guests can tour the Laugh Factory in addition to an undisclosed attraction that will become the first suspended coaster at a Disney park.<h2 id="bacd8718-f4d5-4fe9-8961-ae81dba613de">Disney's moneymaker</h2>Disney's theme parks are a big money-maker. But the company's announcement of its expansions came four days after executives acknowledged that the theme parks stumbled in the third quarter.The <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/app/uploads/2024/08/q3-fy24-executive-commentary.pdf">Experiences division's revenue</a> grew 2% year over year, but operating income declined by 3%. Disney's most recent earnings report blamed inflation, among other factors."We talked about the fact that the lower-income consumer is feeling a little bit of stress. The high-income consumer is traveling internationally a bit more," Disney CFO Hugh Johnston <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://seekingalpha.com/article/4711490-walt-disney-company-dis-q3-2024-earnings-call-transcript">said during a Q&amp;A webcast</a> this month. "I think you're just going to see more of a continuation of those trends in terms of the top line."<div type="image" title="fireworks over cinderella castle at disney world" height="1706" width="2700" msid="112450052" hostid="261" sizebytes="382170"></div><h2 id="8da38566-11f4-4ec9-ab31-224ab59eef35">Disney's expansion</h2>It also comes after The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/desantis-disney-development-deal-fifth-gate-new-theme-park-2024-6">approved a $17 billion development deal</a> for Disney that could transform its Central Florida properties.The development deal is the product of a contentious legal battle between Disney and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, whose administration took control of the local tourism district from Disney last February. Disney had previously self-managed any development in the area with little government oversight through its own board.The legal battle began in 2022 and ended this March when both parties <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-florida-settlement-deal-lawsuits-over-2024-3">agreed to a settlement</a>.When the development deal was approved, Disney hadn't disclosed how it would use the billions of dollars, but the new D23 announcements could be a sign of things to come.Representatives for Walt Disney World did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.<h2 id="f87e5dbb-0031-455d-995b-064f86ead4cf">Disney beyond Florida</h2>D'Amaro also shared details about how other Disney theme parks would expand.At Disneyland in California, Marvel will get noticeably bigger. The Avengers Campus will double its current size to hold new attractions. And following the success of James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water," D'Amaro said an attraction inspired by the franchise is coming to Disney California Adventure.Although Disney is investing heavily in its domestic theme parks, it also plans to expand <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/DisneyParks/status/1822472881122521259">Disneyland Paris</a> and <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/DisneyParks/status/1822490443428340073">Shanghai Disneyland</a>.The company will also bolster its <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/DisneyD23/status/1822485255158452243">cruise operations</a> by adding four new ships to its fleet from 2027 to 2031.

Disney World is entering its villain era

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Lithuania topped the World Happiness Report for people under 30, surprising some locals.</li><li>But many Gen Z Lithuanians agree that its capital, Vilnius, is a great place to live.</li></ul>When Lithuania <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-lithuania-world-happiest-country-for-gen-z-millennials-education-2024-6">topped the World Happiness Report</a> ranking for people under 30 earlier this year, it came as a bit of a shock — even for those who live there."It was a surprise," said Valdas Benkuskas, the mayor of its capital, Vilnius, when Business Insider visited in August.But, he added: "We who are living here, we know what a wonderful city it is."<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/i-moved-to-lithuania-from-us-life-more-stable-balanced-2024-8">Vilnius</a> is Lithuania's most vibrant and populous municipality, a Baltic city of thousands of students, tech start-ups, and greenery. And it has increasingly looked at ways to tailor itself to younger generations.<div type="image" title="Vilnius aerial view with hot air balloons over the top" height="1414" width="2121" msid="113455165" hostid="261" sizebytes="639984"></div>Benkuskas, an older millennial himself, says he's on a mission to attract young professionals from abroad to come and live in Vilnius, and believes that just one visit to the city will be enough to show its appeal."If you spend a week or more here, you can understand that we have a lot of advantages compared with other European cities," he said.<h2 id="547eafc0-acb8-4b87-8296-cc0eee1e34ec">Small city, big advantages</h2><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/lithuania-happiest-country-young-people-2024-3">The World Happiness Report</a> ranks countries based on a survey conducted by Gallup, where respondents evaluate the quality of their lives.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link c-link--focus-visible" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-lithuania-world-happiest-country-for-gen-z-millennials-education-2024-6">Lithuania's under-30s</a> rated themselves 7.76 out of 10, notably higher than their US counterparts (6.392), with locals citing factors to BI such as low rent, free education, and a vibrant nightlife.Ignas Kazlauskas, a 28-year-old who runs a sustainable architecture firm and previously lived in the UK, told BI that Vilnius holds its own against other European capitals.Vilnius offers a stark contrast to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-london-england-what-to-skip-2024-1">London's hustle and bustle,</a> he said — less densely populated, not overwhelmed by tourists, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eea.europa.eu/data-and-maps/daviz/percentage-of-total-green-infrastructure#tab-googlechartid_chart_11">about half the city</a> is made up of green spaces."The city is pretty laid-back, which is nice," he added, sipping a filter coffee at a trendy Old Town café where other patrons sat reading in the sun-drenched courtyard.For a capital city, it's relatively small — about the size of Denver, which means that everything is within easy reach."You can basically walk across the whole center of Vilnius in half an hour," Kazlauskas said.<div type="image" title="Ignas" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455183" hostid="261" sizebytes="706564"></div>The city's 90-or-so lakes, ideal for kayaking, and some of the largest forests in the country are also nearby. When the weather allows, Kazlauskas pilots a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-hot-air-balloons-so-expensive-2024-1">hot air balloon</a> as a hobby."People are definitely much happier when they can spend time outdoors and relieve the stress of work, relationships, or whatever," he said.<h2 id="abbe48bb-9ff2-40d6-b100-e1a25defba95">Immigrant inflow</h2>For decades, organized crime and a struggling economy led hundreds of thousands of Lithuanians, especially the young, to move abroad. However, many are coming back, with returning Lithuanians <a target="_blank" href="https://123.emn.lt/en/#immigration">representing a quarter of all immigrants</a> last year.Tens of thousands of immigrants from outside the EU, many from Ukraine and Belarus, are also moving to a transformed Vilnius. The mayor and Lithuania's tourism board want others to follow suit.Part of their pitch is that Vilnius, despite rising housing costs, still remains one of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-find-cheap-accommodation-europe-without-staying-in-hostel-2023-7">Europe's most affordable capitals</a> in which to rent.<a target="_blank" href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/prc_colc_rents__custom_12695593/default/table?lang=en">According to Eurostat</a>, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vilnius in 2023 was equivalent to $876 — almost half the price of Berlin and about a third the price of London.It can be even cheaper for students. 20-year-old Ričardas Pranculis pays only €65 a month, or about $94, for student accommodation.Even on a student budget, he said he doesn't struggle to make ends meet. "I like living here," he added. "Wages have been increasing, more young people can work and earn money, so more people can try different hobbies."<div type="image" title="Ričardas Pranculis in a park" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455163" hostid="261" sizebytes="2323342"></div>According to an affordability index by the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.jura.lt/en/news/11934-study-reveals-the-most-affordable-european-capitals-to-live-in-bucharest-tops-list">personal finance website Finasvalp,</a> Vilnius is the fourth most affordable capital in Europe.Elizabeth Avgusta, 24, a senior fund accountant from Indonesia who moved to Vilnius four years ago, said her salary goes a long way.She told BI that it's easy to find meals for under 10 euros, or about $11, though the city also offers plenty of upscale dining options, including four <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/michelin-star-chef-paul-liebrandt-rates-fine-dining-in-movies-2024-6">Michelin-starred restaurants.</a><div type="image" title="Adriana Doroškevičiūtė and Elizabeth Avgusta by a fountain" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455170" hostid="261" sizebytes="2633294"></div>She also said she appreciates how inexpensive and convenient it is to travel from Vilnius. The airport is just a 15-minute drive away from the center, and several budget airlines operate from the city. With many <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-lesser-known-european-travel-destinations-from-frequent-traveler">European destinations</a> in easy reach, Vilnius is an ideal base.Avgusta said she's considering <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/london-things-never-do-there-from-local">a trip to London</a> soon, having found round-trip flights for 30 euros. And her colleague, Adriana Doroškevičiūtė, 23, had just booked a cheap <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/berlin-travel-guide-germany-trip">trip to Berlin.</a>But Doroškevičiūtė says that even when traveling, she finds herself longing for Vilnius."Whenever I travel, I always want to come back," she said, describing Vilnius — her hometown — as a city that's comfortable to live in and full of things to do.<div type="image" title="Goda Ponomariovaitė stands by a skate park" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455174" hostid="261" sizebytes="672792"></div>Outside a food hall beside the Baltasis Tiltas, or White Bridge, 22-year-old Goda Ponomariovaitė looks for a place to sit.The area, a vast green space, is teeming with young people — blasting music at the skate park, shooting hoops, and playing beach volleyball on a patch of fake sand.On a sunny day in August, LA's Venice Beach comes to mind. It's also all free to use, probably why it has become such a popular hangout for the city's youth.<div type="image" title="View of the city from the baltasis tiltas" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455177" hostid="261" sizebytes="1776256"></div>According to Ponomariovaitė, Vilnius has plenty of free or affordable hangout spots. One of her favorites is a former prison, transformed into a vibrant cultural center.It attracts artists and aspiring musicians and regularly hosts free concerts and film screenings."We have so, so many bars and nightclubs," Ponomariovaitė said.However, she says that what sets Vilnius apart from other cities she lived in, like Amsterdam, is how safe it feels."It's very safe, especially for women, to be in Vilnius and Lithuania at night,' she said. "If you are walking, you don't need to worry that somebody will kidnap you or something."On an evening in mid-August, youthful <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/types-of-influencers-on-social-media-micro-macro-nano-classification-2020-1">influencer types</a> lined up outside trendy restaurants, while bars overflowed onto the cobbled streets with businesspeople clinking beer glasses. Meanwhile, an older crowd dispersed after attending a free show in the town square.Vilnius is trying to offer something for everyone — or, as the mayor confidently puts it, everything for anyone."You can find here everything you need for a high quality of life," he added, "and that makes the city attractive."

Vilnius is cheap, safe, and fun — no wonder it's the world's happiness capital for Gen Z

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Some visitors to <keyword id="20015104" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Venice" source="keywords">Venice</keyword> will have to start paying a daily 5 euros ($5.36) <keyword id="21380466" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourist-fee" source="keywords">tourist fee</keyword> next year.</li><li>The city said the initiative wasn't designed to raise cash but to give residents a better quality of life.</li></ul>Some visitors to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/tourists-in-venice-pre-book-visit-on-app-avoid-overcrowding-2021-9">Venice</a> will have to start paying a daily tourist fee of 5 euros ($5.36) next year. The initiative covers the introduction of a new tourist flow management system to discourage <keyword id="23547410" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="day-trippers" source="keywords">day trippers</keyword> on certain dates. The <a target="_blank" href="https://live.comune.venezia.it/it/2023/09/venezia-contributo-di-accesso-turisti-giornalieri-si-parte-dalla-primavera-2024-1">city's municipal council</a> on Tuesday agreed to an amended version of a resolution to trial the fee, which will go to the city council for approval on September 12. It covers Venice itself, as well as other smaller islands in the lagoon. The system will be trialled in 2024 for around 30 days, which the council will announce soon, with a focus on long public holiday weekends and summer weekends. Day tourists over the age of 14 will have to pay the fee to visit the Old City. Residents of Veneto, the province that includes Venice, won't pay any contributions but will have to book online. Further information will be released on how long each contribution is valid for and the cost, which could change. <keyword id="22393981" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Simone-Venturini" source="keywords">Simone Venturini</keyword>, the city's tourism councilor, said that the initiative wasn't designed to raise cash and that the money raised would only cover the costs of the scheme. Instead, it was designed to give residents a better quality of life and improve the experience for overnight tourists, the council said. Venice has been blighted by booming tourism, which skyrocketed in the years leading up to the pandemic, causing a rift with local residents. The number of visitors exploded from 3.4 million in 2009 to 5.5 million in 2019 – an increase of more than 60% in a decade, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.comune.venezia.it/sites/comune.venezia.it/files/documenti/Turismo/2021_annuario_ENG_rev2023.pdf">local authorities</a>. <div type="image" title="Tourists walk in a small calle near Rialto on August 02, 2023 in Venice, Italy." height="2000" width="3000" msid="103434148" hostid="261"></div>Numbers plummeted during the pandemic amid waves of lockdowns, sinking to 1.3 million in 2020, those they rose to 2.1 million the next year, the most recent year for which the local authorities released data. Though fewer visitors have been coming, they've been spending slightly more time in the city, the data show, with visitors staying an average of 2.7 nights in 2021. The coastal city — a <a target="_blank" href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/394/">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a> since 1987 with more than 100 surrounding islands, countless bridges, and notable architecture — frequently features of the list of the world's most beautiful places. The city center itself has only about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/venice-start-charging-visitors-entry-fee-next-year-2023-09-05/">50,000 residents</a>. Around two-thirds of the visitors to Venice in 2021 were foreigners, with the top countries of origins being Germany, France, USA, Austria, and Spain, according to the data. Seven of every 10 visitors stayed in the city's historical center, one of its three districts, the data show. Venice has increasingly been hit by the affects of climate change, including flooding and fears that the city is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220927-italys-plan-to-save-venice-from-sinking">sinking</a>. The country's government <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jul/13/italy-bans-cruise-ships-from-venice-lagoon-after-unesco-threat">banned large cruise ships</a> from docking in the Venice lagoon in 2021 after UNESCO <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jun/21/venice-may-be-put-on-endangered-list-if-cruise-ships-not-banned-says-unesco">warned</a> it could put the city on its endangered list. This July, the UN arts and culture body <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/unesco-recommends-adding-venice-list-world-heritage-sites-danger-2023-07-31/">recommended</a> adding Venice to its endangered list, alongside some cities in Ukraine, saying officials weren't doing enough to protect the Italian city from excessive tourism levels and climate change. Nearly 5.2 million foreign tourists stayed in tourist accommodation in Italy in May, according to the <a target="_blank" href="http://dati.istat.it/Index.aspx?lang=en&amp;SubSessionId=d7e5d572-5f0e-470b-aa29-1442bf8e5194#">country's statistics office</a>.

Day trippers to Venice will have to pay a $5.50 tourist fee as the city tries to curb excessive tourism

<keyword id="19905190" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ladakh" source="keywords">Ladakh</keyword>, often referred to as the "Land of High Passes," is a mesmerising region located in the northern part of India. Famous for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventurous activities, Ladakh is a dream destination for many travellers. If you're wondering where to go this summer, here are six compelling reasons why Ladakh should be at the top of your list. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Breathtaking Scenery" comment="subhead" text="Breathtaking Scenery">Breathtaking Scenery</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110122423" hostid="261" sizebytes="2105696" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Journey through Ladakh&amp;#39;s majestic landscapes, where every vista is a masterpiece of nature&amp;#39;s grandeur.&amp;lt;span class=&amp;quot;redactor-invisible-space&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/span&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll ever witness. From towering snow-capped peaks to vast expanses of barren desert, the landscape here is nothing short of spectacular. The crystal-clear blue skies contrast beautifully with the rugged terrain, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that's perfect for exploration and photography. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Unique Culture and Traditions" comment="subhead" text="Unique Culture and Traditions">Unique Culture and Traditions</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110122433" hostid="261" sizebytes="2107482" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Dive into Ladakh&amp;#39;s rich cultural tapestry, where traditions come alive amidst breathtaking vistas&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>One of the most compelling reasons to visit Ladakh is to immerse yourself in its unique culture and traditions. The region is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Ladakhis, Tibetans, and Muslims, each with their own rich heritage. From colourful festivals and ancient monasteries to traditional music and dance performances, there's no shortage of cultural experiences to discover in Ladakh. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/10-best-tourist-places-to-visit-in-ladakh/articleshow/109555242.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Top 10 tourist places to visit in Ladakh</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Adventure Sports" comment="subhead" text="Adventure Sports">Adventure Sports</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110122458" hostid="261" sizebytes="1899536" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Embark on adrenaline-fueled escapades, from trekking rugged terrains to rafting down roaring rivers&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>If you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, Ladakh is the ultimate playground for adventure sports enthusiasts. Whether you're into trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, or mountain biking, there are plenty of thrilling activities to keep you entertained. The rugged terrain and challenging landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures that will get your heart racing and leave you with unforgettable memories. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/top-10-adventure-sports-across-india-where-to-experience-them-in-2024/slidelist/109857299.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Best adventure sports destinations in India</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pristine Lakes" comment="subhead" text="Pristine Lakes">Pristine Lakes</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110122463" hostid="261" sizebytes="2339101" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Reflect by the tranquil shores of Ladakh&amp;#39;s pristine lakes, where serenity meets sublime beauty&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh holds some of the most stunning stunning high-altitude lakes in the world, including Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar. These pristine bodies of water are renowned for their mesmerising blue hues and tranquil surroundings. Whether you're camping by the lakeside, enjoying a leisurely boat ride, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, a visit to Ladakh's lakes is sure to be a highlight of your trip. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Spiritual Retreat" comment="subhead" text="Spiritual Retreat">Spiritual Retreat</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110122480" hostid="261" sizebytes="2416939" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Find solace in Ladakh&amp;#39;s ancient monasteries, where spirituality and peace converge amidst Himalayan peaks&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh offers a serene and spiritual retreat unlike any other. The region is dotted with ancient monasteries and Buddhist stupas, where monks chant prayers and perform rituals in the serene backdrop of the Himalayas. Whether you're a devout Buddhist or simply curious about spirituality, a visit to these sacred sites is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Eco-Tourism and Sustainability" comment="subhead" text="Eco-Tourism and Sustainability"><keyword id="21307311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="eco-tourism" source="keywords">Eco-Tourism</keyword> and Sustainability</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110122487" hostid="261" sizebytes="1773042" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Join Ladakh&amp;#39;s eco-tourism movement, where sustainable practices harmonise with the pristine environment for a greener tomorrow&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>In recent years, Ladakh has emerged as a pioneer in eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices. The local community is deeply committed to preserving the region's fragile ecosystem and traditional way of life. From eco-friendly accommodations and waste management initiatives to responsible tourism practices and conservation projects, Ladakh is leading the way in promoting environmentally sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community. Ladakh is a destination like no other, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure, spirituality, and sustainability. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Ladakh has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the magic of Ladakh this summer. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the best time to visit Ladakh? Ladakh is best visited during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is relatively mild and most of the region's attractions are accessible. However, if you're interested in experiencing the famous Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from January to February. 2. Is altitude sickness a concern in Ladakh? Yes, altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can be a concern when travelling to Ladakh due to its high elevation. It's essential to acclimatise gradually to the altitude by spending a few days in Leh, the main town of Ladakh, before venturing to higher elevations. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous activity, and consulting a healthcare professional before your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. 3. How do I get to Ladakh? The most common way to reach Ladakh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the main airport serving the region, with regular flights connecting Leh to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. Alternatively, you can reach Ladakh by road via the scenic Manali-Leh Highway or the Srinagar-Leh Highway, both are operational during the summer months. 4. Do I need any permits to visit Ladakh? Yes, certain areas in Ladakh, especially those near the border with China and Pakistan, require permits for both Indian and foreign tourists. These permits, known as Inner Line Permits (ILPs) or Protected Area Permits (PAPs), can be obtained from the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) office in Leh or online through the official website. It's essential to obtain the necessary permits before venturing into restricted areas. 5. What should I pack for a trip to Ladakh? When packing for a trip to Ladakh, it's essential to pack layers of clothing to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures, which can range from hot during the day to cold at night. Other essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and any necessary medications for altitude sickness. Additionally, it's advisable to carry a first-aid kit, trekking gear if you plan to trek, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

6 reasons why you should visit Ladakh this summer

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Tourism is bigger than ever, with international tourists set to reach pre-pandemic levels in 2024.</li><li>A new book, "The New Tourist," talks about balancing tourism's impacts and being a mindful traveler.</li></ul>Whether carving their names on the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tourist-recorded-carving-colosseum-walls-sparking-outrage-2023-6">Coliseum in Rome</a> or haphazardly approaching <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tourists-surround-bear-two-cubs-yellowstone-national-park-sparking-debate-2023-8">bears at Yellowstone National Park</a>, tourists frequently make the news for behavior that's, frankly, very stupid.Well-behaved or not, all <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/overtourism-measures-limit-tourism-going-to-increase-venice-amsterdam-rome-2023-10">tourists can have negative impacts</a> on a destination, from too much traffic and congestion to rising rents and priced-out locals. And yet tourism can also bring economic and cultural benefits to a community — especially when it's done right.Paige McClanahan's new book, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-New-Tourist/Paige-McClanahan/9781668011775">"The New Tourist: Waking Up to the Power and Perils of Travel,"</a> is all about how tourism impacts the world, from the good to the bad, and how people who travel can be the right kind of tourist.McClanahan, an American journalist based in France, talked to Business Insider about what it means to be a new tourist, her experience living in a small touristy village in the French Alps, and why people should stop saying they're a "traveler, not a tourist."The conversation has been lightly edited for length and clarity.BI: Why do you think your book — and conversations about how to be a better traveler — are important right now?Paige McClanahan: In 2024, we're expected to see <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.unwto.org/news/international-tourism-reached-97-of-pre-pandemic-levels-in-the-first-quarter-of-2024">1.55 billion international tourist arrivals</a>, which is breaking the pre-pandemic record. Tourism is growing. It's growing faster than the global economy. It's a huge force.At the same time, so many of us who are traveling are looking at our travels through a different lens. All of us, of course, were forced to stay at home during COVID because of pandemic restrictions, and I think that forced so many of us to reexamine this aspect of our lives that we had taken for granted.I'm hoping this book is arriving in a moment where it can really resonate with people because we're traveling more than ever, and I think we're more ready than ever to consider the implications of our travels. And actually surveys are showing that people are more concerned about sustainability, they're more concerned about their impacts on communities. They're willing to spend more to have a positive impact on the place. So I hope the book is coming really at the right moment to speak to that audience.Was there a specific moment or an experience you had traveling that sparked the idea for the book?In 2018, I moved with my family to a little village in the French Alps.I had a chance to see firsthand how tourism really brought life into this village that would otherwise have become a ghost town, probably 50 years ago. It brought life, it brought energy, it brought culture, it brought all sorts of activities for my family, for me and my children, that we wouldn't have had otherwise in this beautiful corner of the French Alps.At the same time, as a resident of a tourist destination, I, for the first time in my life, really had to deal with things like having a heaving grocery store for maybe six or eight weeks a year, or having the parking lot where drop kids off at school overflowing sometimes, or sitting in bumper to bumper traffic on the road that leads to my house when I'm just trying to get home with my groceries.Tourism is so huge and it has so many impacts that go so much deeper below the surface than most of us think about when we're traveling. It was really so moving to this village that that inspired me to start looking at travel and tourism in my journalism.Everywhere I look, there's complexities, there's good and bad and it's so important.Can you describe what you mean by "the new tourist"? What does a new tourist look like?In the last chapter of the book, I respond to an essay that was written by an exceptional writer named Agnes Kard and published in The New Yorker last summer called "The Case Against Travel." She described some tourists as "unchanged changers" — people who go to a place and they change the place, they inflict their presence on the place, and they're unchanged. They themselves remain closed in their hearts and minds to the experience and they come away unmoved. So, I took that as my starting point. That's what I see as an old tourist. Let's have a new tourist be somebody who's a changed changer, changed and enlightened.A new tourist is someone who takes the time to educate themselves about the impact that their presence will have on the place they're visiting and uses that knowledge to do their best to minimize any negative impacts of their presence on the place and maximize any positive impacts, whether it's economic, social, or cultural impacts.And they're changed themselves. They come with a view to having their mind changed. They come with a level of humility. They come with a strong desire to really see the humanity in the people they're visiting and the beauty in the place they're visiting and don't see themselves as superior to the people or the place.It's a mindset shift, really, but I think that it's a really powerful mindset shift that can lead to very constructive impacts both the tourist destination and on the traveler herself.How might travel look differently for someone who's embraced that mindset? How would their behaviors change?To start as an example, how you decide where you're going to go on a trip. When you're thinking about where you want to go, really take some time to reflect. Are you going to a place because it's on some top 10 list that you saw, and you feel like you're obligated to cross it off? Or are you going for a deeper sort of reason, like you want to connect with the culture? Maybe there's something meaningful there that you want to take the time to really learn about or get engaged with when you're there. I think it starts with self-reflection and making sure your motivations for where you want to travel are coming from a deeper place and not a superficial bucket list.At a really practical level, maybe taking fewer trips, but staying longer and really taking the time to engage in a place. Because if you, as an American, come to Europe for two weeks and hit five major cities with two to three days in each place, that's not going to give you the chance to engage in a meaningful way with anybody who lives there or with the culture and history of the place. But if you come to Paris for two weeks, you settle in, and you're seeing the same people at the corner shop every day, you're going back to the same bar at the corner, the same cafe at the corner, and you have a chance to build some relationships. You have a chance to really get to know this corner of Paris. You have a chance to explore beyond the top five things to do and explore other perspectives of the city, not just the cliché.Visiting fewer places is also better for the climate and it's better for the economies of the places you're visiting because every tourist destination wants people to come and stay longer. Be a high-quality visitor. And hire a local tour guide, whether it's for an hour or half a day or a full day, or multiple days. It gives you a chance to really have a personal, human, one-on-one interaction with someone who lives in that place, and you're directly supporting a local.That's one of the highest aims we can have as new tourists: to come away with a real human connection and not just photos for our Instagram feed.You write in the book that the stigma around the word "tourist" needs to change. Why?I think the problem with somebody saying, "I travel a lot, but I'm not a tourist when I travel, I'm a traveler" — It's like, OK, sure, you're a traveler, but I want you to remember that you're a tourist too. If we dissociate ourselves from this phenomenon of tourism that means we don't feel any ownership over the problems that tourism presents. If tourism is something that only other people do, then why should we be bothered about the problems that come with it?If we implicate ourselves in tourism, if we say, "Yes, I'm a tourist," then we might hopefully feel some ownership over the problems with tourism and we might be inspired to actually do something to change it.Because if tourism is this thing that only other people do, and everyone in the world, all of us who are lucky enough to travel, see tourism as something that other people do, nothing's ever going to get better.

An American mom who moved to the French Alps experienced the impacts of over-tourism firsthand. She says there's a better way to do it       

<keyword id="13486" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Vietnam" source="Orion">Vietnam</keyword> is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, stunning beaches, thrilling adventures, and historical landmarks. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, Vietnam is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. <h3>Languages Spoken</h3>The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas and hotels, making communication relatively easy for international travelers. <h3>History Relevance</h3>Vietnam's history is deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations, colonial influences, and a turbulent past marked by war and independence struggles. The remnants of its fascinating history can be explored throughout the country. <h3><keyword id="6831277" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Best-Time-to-Visit" source="Orion">Best Time to Visit</keyword></h3>The ideal time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather and less rainfall, perfect for exploring both the northern and southern regions. <h3>How to Reach</h3>Vietnam is well-connected to international destinations through its major airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Visitors can also enter Vietnam via land borders from neighboring countries. <h3><keyword id="2359554" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Where-to-Stay" source="Orion">Where to Stay</keyword></h3>Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Popular areas to stay include Hanoi's Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh City's District 1, and beach resorts in Da Nang and Nha Trang. <h3><keyword id="18134586" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Itinerary-for-5-days" source="Orion">Itinerary for 5 days</keyword> vacation in Thailand for first-time visitors</h3><table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;" class="redcator-table-advance"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:bottom;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:bottom;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Morning </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:bottom;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Afternoon </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:bottom;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Evening </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day 1 </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Visit Temple of Literature - Cultural experiences in Hanoi </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Explore Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex - Experience water puppet show </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Stroll through Hanoi's Old Quarter - Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dinner </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day 2 </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Depart for Ha long Bay - Ha long Bay cruise </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Embark on a Ha long Bay cruise - Explore caves, kayaking, swimming </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the bay - Overnight stay on the cruise </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day 3 </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Visit Marble Mountains in Da Nang - Adventurous activities in Da Nang </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Relax on My Khe Beach, Ba Na Hills cable car ride - Explore Golden Bridge, enjoy Ba Na Hills </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Seafood dinner by the beach </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day 4 </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Travel to Hoi An - Discover Hoi An's ancient town charm </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall - Take a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Explore lantern-lit streets - Participate in a cooking class </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Day 5 </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Fly to Nha Trang - Explore Nha Trang's serenity </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers - Snorkeling or scuba diving </td><td style="border-left:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-right:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;border-top:solid #d9d9e3 0.75pt;vertical-align:middle;background-color:#f7f7f8;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">- Relax on Nha Trang Beach - Farewell dinner with seafood delicacies </td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody></table> <h3>Day 1: Cultural Immersion in Hanoi</h3>Morning <ul><ul><li>Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and a symbol of Confucian education.</li><li>Explore Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, paying respects to the beloved leader.</li></ul></ul>Afternoon <ul><ul><li>Stroll through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its narrow alleys and vibrant markets.</li><li>Enjoy a traditional water puppet show, an ancient form of Vietnamese entertainment.</li></ul></ul>Evening <ul><ul><li>Savor a delightful dinner of authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant.</li></ul></ul><h3>Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise</h3>Morning <ul><ul><li>Depart for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters.</li></ul></ul>Afternoon <ul><ul><li>Embark on a memorable cruise, enjoying a seafood lunch on board.</li><li>Explore stunning caves and take part in kayaking or swimming activities.</li></ul></ul>Evening <ul><ul><li>Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the bay and spend the night on the cruise.</li></ul></ul><h3>Day 3: Adventure in Da Nang</h3>Morning <ul><ul><li>Arrive in Da Nang and visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills with Buddhist shrines and caves.</li></ul></ul>Afternoon <ul><ul><li>Relax on the beautiful My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam's most famous stretches of coastline.</li><li>Experience the exhilarating Ba Na Hills cable car ride and explore the Golden Bridge.</li></ul></ul>Evening <ul><ul><li>Return to Da Nang for a seafood dinner by the beach.</li></ul></ul><h3>Day 4: Ancient Town of Hoi An</h3>Morning <ul><ul><li>Travel to Hoi An, a charming ancient town with well-preserved architecture.</li><li>Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the historic Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.</li></ul></ul>Afternoon <ul><ul><li>Explore the colorful lantern-lit streets and indulge in Vietnamese coffee at a riverside cafe.</li><li>Take a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River.</li></ul></ul>Evening <ul><ul><li>Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.</li></ul></ul><h3>Day 5: Serenity in Nha Trang</h3>Morning <ul><ul><li>Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal paradise known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.</li><li>Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers, a group of ancient Hindu temples.</li></ul></ul>Afternoon <ul><ul><li>Relax on the pristine Nha Trang Beach and take part in water sports activities.</li><li>Discover the underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.</li></ul></ul>Evening <ul><ul><li>Enjoy a farewell dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring delicious seafood delicacies.</li></ul></ul>

Your 5 days comprehensive travel guide to Vietnam

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved a $17 billion development deal with Disney.</li><li>The development plan could allow Disney World to build a fifth major theme park and two minor parks.</li></ul>Central Florida's tourism district unanimously approved a $17 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-world-desantis-development-deal-fifth-theme-park-2024-6">development deal with Disney</a> that could mean a new era for the company's profitable theme parks.Members of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.oversightdistrict.org/meetings/cftod-board-of-supervisors-meeting-5/">Central Florida Tourism Oversight District's</a> board of supervisors pushed through the landmark deal on Wednesday evening during a meeting at its Lake Buena Vista headquarters.The deal comes amid a détente between <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-desantis-feud-timeline-parental-rights-education-florida-2023-4">Disney and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis</a>, whose administration took control of the local tourism district from the entertainment conglomerate last February. Disney had previously self-managed any development in the area with little government oversight.The resulting legal battle between Disney and the DeSantis administration began in 2022 but ended this March when both parties <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-florida-settlement-deal-lawsuits-over-2024-3">agreed to a settlement</a>.<div type="image" title="Disney, Magic Kingdom" height="1293" width="2000" msid="110952536" hostid="261"></div>"This is the day we have all been looking forward to," Board Member Brian Aungst said prior to the vote. "Walt Disney World is inextricably intertwined in the fabric of Central Florida."After the vote, Board Member Charbel Barakat thanked DeSantis for his leadership, inspiration, and "tireless efforts" to reach a deal with Disney.A representative for DeSantis called the agreement a "big win" in a statement to BI."Disney and the state of Florida continue working well together under CFTOD's new governance structure, and we are pleased to see CFTOD and Disney reach a new development agreement that secures up to $17 billion in future investment in the state of Florida," Communications Director Bryan Griffin said. "This agreement is a big win for central Florida and will lead to numerous jobs and improved guest experiences."The development deal, a version of which Business Insider reviewed, will allow Disney to spend billions of dollars on its Walt Disney World properties over the next 10 to 20 years.It will also permit Disney to build a fifth major theme park and two minor theme parks — something Disney fans have fantasized about for years. Reddit boards and Disney-themed discussion forums have long speculated about the so-called "fifth gate," or a potential fifth theme park that would join the four existing locations.Disney hasn't discussed how or when it could pursue the massive project, but fans have clamored for a villain-centric theme park in the past. Another popular idea was a Star Wars-based attraction, which came to life in 2019 when <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/star-wars-galaxys-edge-opening-at-disney-world-2019-8">Disney unveiled Galaxy's Edge</a>.The development deal also authorizes Disney to add more rooms to its Central Florida hotel and expand its retail and restaurant space.In return, Disney must award at least 50% of its related construction work to Florida-based businesses and fund at least $10 million toward "attainable housing projects." The company must also donate at least 100 acres of its land to the tourism district.In a hearing last week, <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-disney-world-development-deal-desantis-local-support-2024-6">local businesses came out in support of the deal</a>, which they view as an opportunity to grow the local economy and increase sales."The one thing we're sure of is that investment and reinvestment guarantee growth and excellence," George Miliotes, the owner and operator of Wine Bar George in Disney Springs, told board members. "So, when we see the billion-dollar number in front of the investment that's on the table, we get very excited."He added: "We know that we're securing the future if we make this investment."

DeSantis tourism board approves $17 billion development deal with Disney that could pave the way for a 5th theme park

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Tourism hotspots like Venice, Amsterdam, and Rome are pushing back against too many visitors.</li><li>Tourism industry experts said it's just the beginning of efforts to manage overtourism.</li></ul>Picture it: After years of fantasizing and months of planning, you finally arrive at the destination you've always dreamed about. Except, it's just not how you pictured it.You spend three hours in traffic just to pull into <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/photos-yosemite-national-park-buried-under-snow-closed-indefinitely-2023-3">Yosemite National Park</a>. The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/pictures-venice-canals-run-dry-drought-low-tide-gondolas-2023-2">Venice Canal</a> bridges are overrun with strangers scrambling for the same selfies. You can barely see <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/tourists-charged-after-taking-selfie-in-front-of-old-faithful-2019-9">Yellowstone's Old Faithful</a> through the rows of people trying to get a good view. And beneath the Eiffel Tower in <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/france-tourism-police-shooting-unrest-931985b941fdf3c0a7ee24c8dc901c0a">Paris</a>, you are dodging tour groups and cheap souvenir stalls.Even worse than the demystifying effect <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/tourists-dumb-things-officials-deal-with-it-colosseum-naitonal-parks-2023-7">huge crowds</a> can have on the world's most beautiful places is the impact they can have on the people who actually live there — from smaller things like an inability to get into local restaurants to very big impacts, such as being priced out of their homes or unable to afford to live in the places they actually work.With tourism quickly bouncing back from the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.unwto.org/news/international-tourism-swiftly-overcoming-pandemic-downturn">pandemic</a> lows, countries and cities worldwide are ramping up efforts to combat overtourism. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/venice-tourism-fee-day-trippers-italy-travel-vacation-europe-residents-2023-9">Venice, Italy,</a> announced this summer it will start charging day-trippers about $5 dollars to visit the city center. The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amsterdam-cruise-ship-ban-solves-big-problems-facing-tourist-spots-2023-7">Amsterdam</a> City Council voted this year to ban cruise ships from docking in the city center. And <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/acropolis-greece-visitor-limits-cap-cff1fbf0152cbf77c860e5cf68e18a7e">Greece</a> is now capping visitors to the Acropolis of Athens at 20,000 people per day, with additional hourly entry limits.Although some of these measures are controversial and can make travel more inconvenient for tourists, experts in the industry say not only are they necessary, but it's likely just the beginning.<div type="image" title="Gondolas slowly pass under the Bridge of Sighs near St. Mark's Square due to too much traffic on August 02, 2023 in Venice, Italy." height="2000" width="3000" msid="104783022" hostid="261" sizebytes="396524"></div>"At the end of the day, there's roughly 8 billion people on the planet. In the next 20 to 30 years, there's going to be another billion people on the planet. A lot of those people will travel. Where are they going to go? Well, the same places as everybody else," Alan Fyall, the Visit Orlando endowed chair of tourism marketing at the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management who studies sustainable tourism, told Insider."There's a lot of people with sufficient money and time to travel, so it's not going to get any easier."<h2>The main problem is everyone coming to the same place, at the same time</h2>Tourism worldwide has steadily risen since the <a target="_blank" href="https://airandspace.si.edu/explore/stories/evolution-commercial-flying-experience">1950s</a>, a trend that's unlikely to slow down. "People now have more access to destinations than they had before," Andria Godfrey, a professor in hospitality and tourism at the University of Southern California, told Insider, adding there are more air routes than ever. "Destinations that before were more remote now have different ways that people are able to travel to them."International travel especially has become more accessible. Godfrey noted that in some cases flying to Europe is not significantly more expensive than flying to destinations within the US. Americans are also more committed to travel than they were in the past. More and more Americans are prioritizing their discretionary spending on travel, while previously that money was going towards consumer goods. Even when there's economic uncertainty and Americans are focused on saving money, travel is one of the last things they're willing to give up.<div type="image" title="Tourists crowd the area near the Rialto Bridge on August 02, 2023 in Venice, Italy." height="2000" width="3000" msid="104783023" hostid="261" sizebytes="497310"></div>"This is something that is probably not going to go away," she said of the rising demand for travel. "We're going to see more destinations having to deal with volume, timing of travel, types of travelers, and traveler behavior."And it's not just that more people are traveling: they are also visiting different kinds of places. In the US, Godfrey said there's been a huge surge in travel related to the outdoors, especially after the pandemic. More Americans than ever are also traveling to Europe, which has been dealing with overtourism for years. Similar to the strain put on small, historic European cities that weren't built for millions of people, the infrastructure in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/high-visitation-rates-national-parks-lead-to-big-crowds-graffiti-2021-7">national parks</a> is also not equipped to handle too many visitors.The problem is not necessarily the volume of tourists at any given place, but the fact that they all come at once, and to the exact same locations."<a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/travel-destinations-instagram-influencers-ruined-2019-7">Instagram</a> is really compounding the problem," Fyall said, explaining that social media is part of the reason so many people want to go to the exact same spot when they visit a destination. "Everybody wants to get that shot."If destinations could succeed at simply spreading out the tourists — in regards to both the physical spots they are visiting and the time of year they come — it could go a long way in addressing the problems caused by overtourism.<div type="image" title="A line of cars creeps slowly to the Tioga Pass Highway 120 entrance of Yosemite National Park as viewed on August 5, 2023, just outside Yosemite National Park, California." height="3840" width="5760" msid="104783026" hostid="261" sizebytes="2223070"></div>"If you don't control the numbers at a certain time, you will ruin the resource so much that there won't be anything to go see," Fyall said. "That's the reality."<h2>Visitor limits, fees and fines, and development controls are becoming more common</h2>Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International, a market research consultancy that specializes in the travel tourism industry, told Insider there are five primary ways destinations are addressing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/hallstatt-austria-locals-protest-overtourism-frozen-village-photos-2023-10">overtourism</a>.The first two are visitor caps, like what Greece has done at the Acropolis, and reservation systems, like at several US national parks, including Zion, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain. Caps and reservations are also common at more specific attractions, such as popular museums like the Louvre.The third trend is destinations instituting taxes and fees, like Venice, or even fines. In Rome, for instance, officials vowed to charge tourists caught <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/italy-colosseum-keeps-getting-defaced-media-attention-isnt-helping-2023-7">defacing the Coliseum</a>, which comes with fines of €15,000, or $16,850, or even jail time.<div type="image" title="Hundreds of tourists gather on a boardwalk to watch Old Faithful Geyser erupt on July 14, 2021 at Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming." height="683" width="1024" msid="104783027" hostid="261" sizebytes="128968"></div>And while fees and taxes may not be enough on their own to lower tourist numbers — is $5 really going to deter the average traveler from visiting Venice? — it can give that location more resources to improve infrastructure or invest in permanent community housing."People are going where they want to go," Eylon said. "If it is a quality experience with an aspirational destination, people are going to pay."Another approach that doesn't involve directly limiting or charging tourists is development caps, which Eylon said are becoming more common, particularly in smaller destinations or resort towns that draw far more visitors than they are built to manage. In 2019, <a target="_blank" href="https://mountainx.com/news/asheville-city-council-approves-new-hotel-development-regulations/">Asheville, North Carolina</a>, instituted a one-year ban on any new hotel developments so the leaders of the town could assess the situation and develop policies for new hotel proposals. The ban was lifted over a year later, with new policies requiring hotel developments to meet certain standards or contribute to a permanent housing fund.Lastly, there's how destinations market themselves. While for a long time, tourism marketing boards primarily encouraged visitors to come, some are now taking a different approach. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/amsterdam-travel-tourism-drugs-red-light-district-b09d1286">Amsterdam</a>, for instance, launched a campaign this year directed at tourists who only want to come to the city to party. The message? Stay away.Other places have focused on encouraging tourists to behave better, such as Colorado's partnership with <a target="_blank" href="https://lnt.org/partnership/tourism/colorado-tourism-office/">Leave No Trace</a>, which is aimed at promoting responsible tourism.<div type="image" title="Members of the public walk away from the Eiffel Tower in Paris on August 16, 2023." height="5088" width="7633" msid="104783029" hostid="261" sizebytes="1143414"></div>Both the Netherlands and Colorado have also focused on promoting locations beyond their primary attractions — Amsterdam and Denver — to encourage tourists to explore other parts of the country and state."There's no one-size-fits-all solution," Eylon said, adding that what works for one community won't necessarily work for another.<h2>Tourism is good for communities — until it's not</h2>One of the biggest roadblocks to addressing overtourism is the fact that, in many ways, tourism is good for communities. In addition to the economic benefits, the things that make places great tourism destinations are often the same things that make them great places to work and live: a variety of restaurants, good infrastructure, great museums, and other attractions.Surveys done by Eylon's company have found that most Americans believe the positives of tourism outweigh the negatives. Still, there's generally a line, and various stakeholders will have different opinions about how many visitors are too many. Eylon said it's becoming increasingly common and important for tourism boards to not only measure the economic benefits of tourism but to also measure resident sentiments about tourism levels.<div type="image" title="Crowds of tourists in front of the Parthenon, on the Acropolis of Athens in Greece." height="3333" width="5000" msid="104783195" hostid="261" sizebytes="1343778"></div>Anna Abelson, an adjunct professor at New York University's Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, said there are some clear indications of when overtourism has become a problem: too much noise, high levels of pollution, and just so many people in an area that it's difficult for locals to simply enjoy their day-to-day lives.Residents of such locations will often make their displeasure known. In <a target="_blank" href="https://www.france24.com/en/20170807-spain-barcelona-tourism-airbnb-protests-demonstrations-italy-venice">Barcelona, Spain</a>, for instance, there have been massive protests against tourism, and a lot of residents have simply left the neighborhoods they had long lived in."They were leaving because certain neighborhoods lost authenticity. It was not really for locals anymore. It was mostly souvenir shops," Abelson said.The challenge for tourism destinations now is to find the balance between promoting tourism in order to get the benefits of it, while being realistic about where to draw the line and listening to local residents about how they're being impacted.While tourism management measures can pose an inconvenience to travelers or require them to plan more of their trips in advance, they are the only way to preserve the world's most treasured places."We want all generations to come to visit Venice," Abelson said. "But I'm not sure what state they're going to find Venice in when they go.""To do nothing at this point is not an option."

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