by admin | Sep 4, 2025 | tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
Every year, millions travel to Turkey for their summer vacations, seeking beautiful beaches, affordable costs, and exceptional food.
However, there are alternative locations that provide comparable opulence at a price lower than half of a standard journey to a popular European destination.
According to
Eurochange
Holidays in well-known destinations across Turkey—such as Antalya and Bodrum—are experiencing significant price hikes along with a decrease in visitors.
Skyscanner offers round-trip flights from
London
The travel money firm announced deals to Bodrum in August, with prices beginning at £285 per adult.
A week-long stay at a four-star fully inclusive hotel for a family of four might amount to £5,755.
Renowned travel specialist Laura Evans-Fisk has shared three hidden gem destinations ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking an international getaway.
She mentioned: “There are still several excellent options for families seeking sunny conditions, stunning coastlines, and an experience of regional traditions without spending too much.”
Among Laura’s recommendations is Albania, known for its “breathtaking shorelines and Mediterranean appeal.”
Travelers can secure round-trip flights from London to Tirana in August for £194 per adult, as reported by Eurochange.
A vacation for a family of four lasting seven nights at a four-star fully inclusive hotel may cost as low as £2,713.
“Albania has subtly emerged as one of the most thrilling and budget-friendly vacation spots in Europe,” Laura mentions.
She says, “It provides several similar attractions to Turkey: pristine water, robust food, historical sites, and friendly service, yet without the throngs of people or high costs.”
A travel specialist raves about Albania’s coastline, extending from Vlore to Sarande, highlighting ‘stunning beaches featuring sapphire-colored waters, striking cliffs, and picturesque seaside villages’.
Laura also suggests checking out Ksamil and Dhermi, which she claims offer strong competition to Bodrum and Antalya.
Albanian cuisine is also designed to make an impression, featuring a variety of fresh fish, grilled meats, and regional cheeses.
“Meals tend to be reasonably priced and plentiful, particularly at locally-owned eateries where service is considered an important part of their identity,” Laura says.
Regarding locations to explore in order to experience Albania’s heritage and past, Berat is a city recognized by UNESCO, whereas Butrint features remnants from ancient Rome.
“You can still experience the blend of Ottoman, Greek, and Roman influences in the buildings, cuisine, and customs, without dealing with large groups of visitors,” said the travel specialist.
She says, “Another big attraction is its remarkably affordable nature. Lodging, vehicle rental, and dining out are significantly less expensive compared to Turkey, and because Albania doesn’t belong to the Eurozone, your currency stretches farther.”
Another location worth considering is Bulgaria, which provides comparable sights to Turkey but for much less money.
Flights back from London to Burgas in August cost £253 per adult, whereas a fully inclusive vacation for a group of four may be secured for £2,191.
Boasting numerous seaside destinations, Bulgaria provides an equally welcoming environment for families, along with a blend of cultural experiences and beachfront scenery similar to what Turkey offers.
“Many people ignore the Bulgarian coastline along the Black Sea, yet it provides similar advantages to Turkey’s coastal areas in the Mediterranean,” Laura mentions.
Resorts such as Sunny Beach, Nessebar, and Sozopol offer sand shores, tranquil warm seas, and numerous children-friendly attractions, yet they typically cost half as much as well-known Turkish destinations like Marmaris or Bodrum, particularly during school breaks.
Regarding the cuisine, there are many parallels with Turkish cooking, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and yogurt-based sauces.
“Meals outside won’t significantly affect your vacation money, and many eateries accommodate children and families well,” Laura adds.
Additionally, Bulgaria stands out as one of the most cost-effective places in Europe for all-inclusive vacations. Family-friendly resorts cater specifically to children, providing facilities such as swimming pools, youth clubs, recreational activities, and convenient access to the beach.
You receive the complete service you would anticipate in Turkey, yet at a lower cost.
An alternative choice for families seeking an affordable getaway is northern Morocco.
Flights from London to Tangier in August start at £299 per adult, with a fully inclusive vacation for a family of four available for as low as £2,509.
Laura says, “If you’re looking for the colors, culture, and coastal beauty of Turkey but prefer something slightly less well-known, Northern Morocco provides an excellent option filled with character and good value.”
It makes an excellent choice for families seeking sunshine, yet offers a little something different.
A travel specialist suggests visiting northern coastal regions such as Tangier, Asilah, and Tetouan, which all offer a mix of Mediterranean seaside atmosphere combined with a North African influence.
“Imagine white-painted villages, relaxed coastal walkways, and extended golden sand shores ideal for children,” Laura exclaims.
It’s not as advanced as Turkey’s lively seaside destinations, resulting in smaller groups of visitors and a more genuine atmosphere, yet still maintaining the key elements for a family vacation.
She adds: ‘
Culture enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate here. Tangier used to be a favorite spot for artists and authors, and it presents a blend of Moroccan, Spanish, and French elements evident in its buildings, cuisine, and bazaars.
The historic centers of Tetouan and Chefchaouen offer secure, pedestrian-friendly environments rich in heritage, resembling the alleys of Istanbul yet without the same level of congestion.
Moroccan food is also sure to please, offering dishes like grilled fish, couscous, and freshly baked bread that often appear on restaurant menus.
It also won’t be expensive, “Dining out is budget-friendly and suitable for families, featuring gentle seasonings and quality ingredients,” Laura says.
Travel expenses and lodging tend to be more affordable compared to Turkey, with numerous charming places to stay available.
‘She added, flights to Tangier from the UK are also rising, as budget airlines have made travel easier than before.’
Read more
by admin | Sep 3, 2025 | entertainment, malaysia, singapore, tourists, Travel
Tourists coming from Singapore were at the top of the list for the highest number of international travelers visiting Johor, Malaysia’s second-largest state, making up almost 78%.
Over 11 million of Johor’s total 14 million international visitors from January to June 2025 were Singaporean nationals.
The Straits Times
reported, referencing K. Raven Kumar, chairman of the Johor Unity, Culture and Heritage Committee.
In addition to Singapore, the country is also attracting numerous tourists from Indonesia, China, India, the Philippines, South Korea, and various European nations.
Raven noted that this represented an optimistic and motivating development for the state government and local tourism sector, as they prepare for the Visit Johor Year 2026 initiative.
Initiatives are also being implemented to highlight smaller towns within Johor’s ten regions as possible tourist spots for both international and local visitors,
The Star
reported.
He further mentioned that the government plans to draw 12 million visitors to Johor in 2026 through improvements of different tourist attractions and hosting events aimed at reinforcing the state’s status as a major travel hotspot.
Johor is recognized as Malaysia’s second-largest state in terms of population, following Selangor. The region features well-known travel spots including Legoland Malaysia, cultural landmarks such as the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, as well as natural sights like Desaru Beach and the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park.
The Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, stated that 10.3 million visitors from Singapore traveled to Malaysia between January and June, marking an increase of 22.5% over the same timeframe in 2024.
by admin | Aug 31, 2025 | business, controversies, politics, politics and government, tourists
A picturesque alpine village is experiencing the impact of the President
Donald Trump
‘s
disagreement with his colleagues in Canada.
Whitefish,
Montana
depends largely on tourism from
Canada
To boost local employment, assist independent enterprises, and preserve the essence of the community.
“Tourism influences almost all aspects of life around here,” said Zak Anderson, executive director of Explore Whitefish.
told the Missoulian
situated only one mile away from the U.S.-Canada boundary.
It’s what ensures our restaurants remain packed, our accommodations lively, and our local enterprises flourishing.
However, as Trump increased his criticism of Canada by advocating for the nation to align with the U.S. and introducing additional taxes on steel and aluminum,
Canadian tourism is down
increased by 25% in Whitefish
Canadian tourists have consistently been among our most regular visitors,” Anderson said. “When they stop coming, the effect is considerable.
He currently attributes the decline in tourist numbers to Trump’s tariff warnings and changes in border regulations, stating: “It’s not that Canadians aren’t interested in visiting Montana, but rather that they’re worried about what to anticipate, and whether they will be made to feel at home.”
Certain individuals might be familiar with accounts of travelers being ensnared by U.S. immigration authorities during Trump’s extensive removal campaigns, prompting the Canadian government to update its guidance for residents traveling to America.
It stated that tourists are required to “cooperate fully and provide honest information during all communications with immigration officials” and cautioned that guests “might be held temporarily until transport arrangements are made.”
The United States has continued onwards
The United States has onward moved
The United States has progressed thereafter
The United States has carried on subsequently
The United States has advanced forward
The United States has proceeded from then on
The United States has kept going after that
The United States has maintained progress afterwards
The United States has persisted beyond that point
The United States has gone ahead since then
fired back with its own direction
for Americans traveling to the neighboring north, a caution regarding the nation’s continuous issues with forest fires.
However, as Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney keep exchanging criticisms, Anderson mentioned that Whitefish is facing difficulties.
Companies making hiring and resource allocation choices several months ahead of the typical peak summer travel period are now struggling fiercely to stay afloat, he stated.
Many small enterprises, such as eateries, operate with minimal profit margins,” Anderson stated. “Therefore, when costs for almost all items rise, it becomes more challenging to remain financially viable, irrespective of changes in customer traffic.
The rise in local tourism throughout the busy summer season also failed to assist, according to Anderson.
“Many of our U.S. guests stay for shorter periods, while Canadians have traditionally returned repeatedly—particularly during the off-peak season when our establishments require this the most,” he stated.
The unpredictability of the market is fueling a ‘highly seasonal’ pattern that proves harder to maintain.
Meanwhile, cities such as Whitefish and adjacent Kalispell are experiencing staff cuts at Glacier National Park despite almost record levels of visitors.
A national park that attracts 44 percent of Montana’s visitors has seen approximately one-quarter of its workforce leave because of budget efficiency measures, voluntary separation programs, and a recruitment halt implemented earlier this year,
NPR reports.
Guests are currently experiencing limited facilities within the park, impacting various aspects such as path availability, vehicle control, and also toilet upkeep.
This is placing greater pressure on Whitefish to fulfill the needs of visitors to the park.
“Communities in Montana are strong, yet as regulations continue to shift, it grows more difficult to prepare, invest, or develop for what lies ahead,” Anderson stated.
To encourage an increase in Canadian tourism, Glacier Country CEO Racene Friede initiated a promotional effort highlighting the long-standing connection between Montana and Canada,
World Travel and Tourism Reports
It aims to present Canadians not only as travelers but also as neighbors and companions.
“We keep informing Canadians that we look forward to welcoming them back when they feel prepared to return,” said Diane Medler, Executive Director of Discover Kalispell.
told The Travel
.
However, she stated, certain tourism offices within the state are pausing their advertisements in Canada due to the decline in international travel and Canadians’ generally unfavorable perception of the U.S.
“We require signs from both governments that transnational relationships and our business allies are important, and without such indication, no level of advertising will make a difference at this moment,” Medler stated.
It appears there is still reason for optimism, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Friday that the nation has lifted numerous punitive tariffs on products imported from the United States.
He mentioned that the reduction, beginning September 1, will align with U.S. exceptions for products included in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
“Canada now holds the most favorable trade agreement with the United States. Although it differs from our previous arrangement, it remains superior to those of all other countries,” Carney stated.
The premier mentioned that Trump’s dedication to the essence of USMCA ensures that the U.S. average tariff rate on Canadian products stays among its smallest, with more than 85% of Canada-U.S. trade remaining without tariffs.
This should assist in controlling costs across a range of items including timber and sea products, as well as alcoholic beverages and vehicle components.
For Americans, this shift goes beyond just having lower prices for products on store shelves and at gas stations. It also alleviates stress on companies depending on Canadian imports, such as those in construction and automotive industries, and helps prevent unexpected increases in costs.
Nevertheless, Canada’s 25% duties on U.S. vehicles, steel, and aluminum will continue for the time being – expenses that will impact Canadian buyers more significantly than their American counterparts.
Read more
-
Canada under pressure! How are Trump’s trade warnings causing a significant decline in Canadian tourists visiting the United States?
-
What role is Trump’s confrontational global approach playing in increasing Canadian tourists’ hesitation to travel to the U.S., as visits drop significantly?
-
In what ways is the U.S. travel sector dealing with the Canadian consumer strike caused by Trump’s controversial approaches?
-
In what ways are Canadians responding to Trump’s claims of annexation, potentially affecting the U.S. tourism industry?
-
Might Trump’s daring proposal for a “51st State” and impending taxes cause problems, threatening U.S.-Canada ties and travel?
by admin | Aug 31, 2025 | international travel, tourists, tours, travel destinations, uk economy
Every year, millions of travelers come to the United Kingdom – but which nation sends the largest number of visitors?
From uneven stone paths, old structures, an
Royal Family
In addition to stunning shorelines, the United Kingdom offers much more.
However, there is one specific nation that is drawn to our boundless rural areas and lively urban centers.
The United States leads all others, with an impressive 5.6 million reported trips to the UK in 2024, as per the data from the
Office of National Statistics
(ONS).
France
accompanied by 3.6 million people who traveled to the nation during the previous year.
While
Germany
secured the third position, attracting 3.3 million travelers who flew in to explore the United Kingdom in 2024.
The
Republic of Ireland
placed fourth with 2.9 million visitors coming from the neighboring country.
In the meantime, 2.5 million visitors to the United Kingdom arrived from Spain.
In total, the UK received approximately 42.6 million visits from international visitors in 2024.
They also spent significantly, having distributed an impressive £32.5 billion during their stay.
This amounts to an average expenditure of £763 per journey.
Residents in the UK also traveled extensively, with an estimated 94.6 million overseas journeys taken during the previous year.
People who traveled abroad in 2024 are estimated to have spent a combined amount of £78.6 billion.
Spain, a top vacation destination, remained favored among British travelers, who made approximately 17.8 million trips there.
France had 9.3 million visitors, while Italy recorded 4.8 million.
Tourism from the United Kingdom to Spain has almost reached pre-pandemic numbers, with 18.1 million visitors traveling there in 2019.
France has nearly made a comeback as well, with 10.3 million visits from British tourists recorded in 2019.
Similarly, Italy welcomed 5.1 million visitors in 2019.
In the meantime, the United States recorded 4.1 million visits from British tourists during the previous year, with 4.8 million such visits before the pandemic began.
However, Turkey has seen a significant rise, recording 2.3 million visits in 2019 and reaching an outstanding 4.1 million in 2024.
Read more
-
What contributes to the new UK travel adjustment being a significant financial opportunity for tourism?
-
Is the British population opting for local vacations this year to enjoy the UK’s stunning historic sites more than ever?
-
Luxembourg takes the lead, yet how do British people’s rapidly increasing vacation trends measure up against attractive Spanish holidays?
-
Are European tourist attractions becoming less appealing as British travelers opt for distant locations during their summer breaks?
-
What makes Loveholidays expect an enormous increase of five million UK travelers, compared to just one million in 2019?
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | news, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, world
Unguja. In July, Zanzibar achieved record-high monthly visitor numbers, receiving 98,370 international guests—a 44.2% growth when compared to the same time last year, according to official tourism statistics published on July 7. This number marked an impressive 45.7% increase from June 2025. Europe continued to be Zanzibar’s primary tourist origin, comprising 64.4% of all incoming visitors. Italy topped this list with 10,403 entries—accounting for 10.6% of overall arrivals—an exceptional recovery from June’s count of 2,660, which saw a remarkable 291% month-over-month boost. France followed closely behind at 7.7%, whereas Japan had the lowest percentage at just 0.2%. The data indicated that 99.4% of those who visited in July did so for recreational purposes; nearly 91% arrived via air travel. Men made up 54% of these visitors, while women comprised 46%. Over 86% of the tourists fell within the ages of 15-64, with senior citizens forming about 4.5% of the group. Almost one-third of vacationers stayed precisely a week, with most intending stays extending slightly past seven days. Hotel room availability reached 81.1%, with approximately 741,000 out of the 913,911 beds occupied throughout the month. Emerging destinations including Poland, India, Russia, Israel, China, and Ukraine experienced a collective 42.2% rise in guest counts relative to June, highlighting increasing diversity away from conventional European sources. These July outcomes reflect not only Zanzibar’s rising worldwide popularity but also Italy’s significant contribution towards boosting summer-time tourism. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Aug 23, 2025 | community, culture, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel
Featuring ancient windmills and sloped-roof wooden homes situated along a winding river, the picturesque and widely popular spot known as Zaanse Schans is essential to visit for anyone exploring the Netherlands.
However, the village with its historic structures close to Amsterdam has been labeled “a national emblem of over-tourism” by local officials, who currently aim to implement a controversial entry fee.
The intense discussion regarding the proposed 17.50-euro ($20) ticket for next year occurs amid worldwide opposition to overcrowded tourism, with popular destinations such as Venice imposing fees for daily visits.
On a magnificent summer day during AFP’s visit, lengthy lines for the renowned windmills stretched outside the entrance, with groups moving across bridges, patiently awaiting photo opportunities showcasing the picturesque landscape.
Buses release hundreds of sightseeing visitors throughout the day, filling up a modestly sized space that remains open and accessible without charge — at least temporarily.
The local authority in neighboring Zaanstad claims the charge is essential for maintaining historic structures, which are facing “intense strain” due to large visitor volumes.
“Over the past few years, the Zaanse Schans has become a national emblem of over-tourism,” stated councilor Wessel Breunesse.
Approximately 2.6 million visitors came in the previous year, according to the council, with projections indicating an increase to three million in future years unless action is taken.
A ticket charge might lower the yearly number to approximately 1.8 million visitors and generate millions of euros for maintaining these historical structures.
“Not taking action is not feasible. With insufficient funds for proper upkeep, the heritage will disappear within a few years,” stated the council in a message delivered to AFP.
Tourism-dependent economy
Many visitors remain unaware until their arrival that although numerous structures originate from the 16th century, the location itself is a modern and constructed anomaly.
Following World War II, conventional wooden building techniques faced the risk of being completely lost.
Enthusiastic about safeguarding this piece of history, local Mayor Joris in ‘t Veld proposed a solution: he intended to move the homes and place them at a newly secured location.
In 1955, the first mill came into existence, followed by the first home a few years afterward. In time, the “Zaanse Schans” location became renowned enough to be formally inaugurated by Queen Juliana in 1972.
“Zaanse Schans was not originally intended to be the global attraction it has become, drawing millions of tourists from around the globe,” said councilor Breunesse.
However, for local resident and entrepreneur Ingrid Kraakman, the proposal to impose an entry fee would be catastrophic, not only as a community member but also for the dairy store where she is employed.
“A local living here doesn’t wish to reside behind a barrier… that’s unacceptable,” said the 62-year-old person, speaking to AFP from her 17th-century house located in the center of Zaanse Schans.
Kraakman and her husband Ko have resided in this region for 33 years and feel that implementing an entry charge would severely harm the local economy and employment opportunities.
“She mentioned there is significant fear,” she noted, adding that approximately 80 percent of the regional economy relies on tourism.
Her dairy store is full of visitors drawn in by complimentary tastings and mementos, yet she mentioned that the charge would significantly hinder their expenditure.
A household of four would already be spending approximately 80 euros including parking, which cuts into their funds for in-venue shopping, she pointed out.
“They do not purchase cheese. They do not buy clocks. Instead, they opt for a keepsake or perhaps the tiniest piece of cheese available,” she said to AFP.
Referendum demand
The Kraakmans have gathered over 2,000 signatures for a vote on this matter, yet their efforts have not been heeded at the municipal office.
Knowing about certain local opposition, the council has promised that the location will remain accessible to residents and that there won’t be any barrier surrounding the space.
Even though the plans are set for next year, an adjustment has been proposed to account for potential postponements. Currently, 2026 appears as an overly ambitious target — referred to by a local authority figure under confidentiality as a “moonshot.”
Many visitors believed the journey was worthwhile despite having to cover the costs.
Spanish tourist Robert Duque said to AFP: “It’s a beautiful location, although at times it gets very busy and you can’t fully appreciate the experience.”
A 35-year-old operations manager stated that he would be open to paying an entry fee to reduce tourism numbers.
“I believe it’s beneficial; thus, we can space out the arrival of visitors and make better use of the amenities,” stated Duque.
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