News & Stories
People who love their pets want to spend their holidays with them. Some pet owners book holidays at dog hotels, others take their own caravans. Now there are even cruises especially for dogs and their owners.
Europe's event-driven tourism sector maintained strong momentum in 2025, with overall tourism spending rising by +7% year on year, a growth reflecting sustained demand for live experiences and the considerable economic value they generate for local communities.
Austria's winter tourism remains popular. The reasons are numerous. Guest from the US and China, as well as urban Europeans, are in high demand during the cold season. Undoubtedly, these guest flows secure Austria's economic well-being.
Mulled wine, bratwurst and roasted almonds - these things can be really lucrative. The most visited Christmas markets in Central Europe are in Germany and France and will welcome over 17 million people in 2025 - mainly day trip tourists.
A total of three hotels worldwide are permitted to call themselves ‘Starlight Accommodation’ (Alojamiento Starlight). This curious award is particularly interesting for professional stargazers and amateur astronomers.
Boxes full of souvenirs: around 300 years ago, young English aristocrats went on the "Grand Tour". They collected souvenirs from their travels and turned them into a trend. Selfies were also popular back then – just in a different way.
US border guards want to scrutinise the social media profiles of short-term visitors, such as tourists and business travellers from Europe. What is behind this data collection?
A statistical survey of European countries reveals interesting differences. Hoteliers in southern Europe are benefiting significantly from weak supply growth. More mature markets in central Europe are fluctuating more strongly, but the Nordics are rejoicing again.
Key boxes for checking into holiday apartments will be banned in Milan in future. The municipal council has passed a regulation on this effect. The ban will come into force in January.
ITB Berlin is celebrating 60 years, and under the guiding theme "Leading Tourism into Balance", the trade fair will focus on the key questions shaping the future of global tourism. From 3 to 5 March 2026, around 400 leading international speakers will discuss how sustainable business models can function while respecting the natural environment.