Prague Becomes STARLUX Airlines’ First European Gateway with New Direct Taipei Route Starting in 2026 – A Game-Changer for Central Europe’s Aviation and Tourism Sectors!

In a historic announcement, STARLUX Airlines has revealed Prague as its first European destination, offering direct flights from Taipei starting August 1, 2026. This exciting new route promises to significantly enhance long-haul travel options, connecting Asia to Central Europe in an unprecedented way. As part of its growing international network, STARLUX aims to cater to business travelers, tourists, and premium passengers with an exciting new connection.

Prague’s Václav Havel Airport will now serve as a gateway for passengers flying between the dynamic city and Taipei, Taiwan’s bustling capital. This marks the start of STARLUX’s expansion into Europe, and Prague’s tourism, as well as its aviation industry, is set to benefit from this exciting new venture.

A Groundbreaking Connection: The First-Ever Taipei to Prague Long-Haul Flight

As of August 1, 2026, Prague will become the first European hub for STARLUX Airlines, a major milestone for the Taiwanese airline. This new direct route will initially run three times a week, with the frequency increasing to four flights per week from October 2026. With an Airbus A350-900 operating this long-haul route, passengers will enjoy the comfort of a four-class configuration, including First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class seating. The 306-passenger aircraft will offer state-of-the-art amenities, making it the perfect option for travelers seeking a luxurious and smooth journey across continents.

For travelers seeking both luxury and comfort, STARLUX’s four-class configuration, including First Class service, offers an exclusive way to experience Asia and Europe in style. Passengers can expect modern amenities such as advanced in-flight entertainment, spacious seating, and improved cabin air quality, ensuring an exceptional flying experience.

Why Prague? The Strategic Importance of Central Europe

Prague is a natural fit for STARLUX Airlines’ European debut, thanks to its growing prominence as a business and tourism hub. The Czech Republic’s capital city has long been a top destination for travelers exploring Central Europe, and with the new direct service, Prague will become even more accessible to Taiwanese and East Asian visitors.

This route will significantly boost tourism in Prague, with more Taiwanese tourists flocking to explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural landmarks. Furthermore, the direct link to Taipei will open up new opportunities for business travelers, especially in sectors such as trade, technology, and finance. The Prague-Taipei connection will not only serve leisure travelers but will also establish a more direct path for cross-border business and trade between Europe and Asia.

Prague’s Václav Havel Airport is set to benefit from this expansion as well. With increasing passenger demand, direct international flights will enhance the airport’s global connectivity, improving its standing as a central European hub for international travelers.

STARLUX Airlines: An Ambitious Move into the European Market

Known for its luxury services and modern fleet, STARLUX Airlines has rapidly gained recognition since its inception in 2020. The airline’s strategic goal of expanding into North America and Asia has now progressed to Europe. The decision to serve Prague is a bold move for the airline, which is keen on establishing a competitive presence in the European aviation market.

The introduction of the Airbus A350-900 on the route reflects STARLUX’s commitment to providing a premium flying experience. This modern, fuel-efficient aircraft is not only a sustainable choice, but it also offers cutting-edge passenger amenities that align with the airline’s brand of luxury air travel. By providing such a high-end service, STARLUX is poised to cater to both the business elite and tourists who want a seamless and high-quality flight experience.

What Does This Mean for Prague’s Aviation and Tourism?

The Prague-Taipei direct flight has significant implications for both the aviation industry and the tourism sector in Prague.

For Prague Airport, it’s a huge win. This new route will increase the airport’s international traffic, especially from Asia, where air connectivity has been traditionally limited. The ability to connect Taiwan directly with the heart of Europe will further cement Prague’s place as an important European hub. As more flights to Asia become available, other international airlines may follow suit, offering more direct routes to Central Europe.

From a tourism perspective, the new route promises a boost for local businesses, hotels, and cultural sites. The connection will bring in more tourists from Taiwan and East Asia, eager to explore Prague’s Old Town, Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge. Increased foot traffic will benefit restaurants, local attractions, and the retail sector, all contributing to Prague’s economic recovery post-pandemic.

For the Czech Republic as a whole, this service strengthens its position on the international stage. The Taipei-Prague link will drive more global travelers to the country, contributing to the growth of inbound tourism and bolstering the nation’s hospitality industry.

The Future for STARLUX Airlines in Europe

Looking ahead, Prague is only the beginning for STARLUX Airlines in Europe. As the airline continues to expand its global network, it is expected that more European destinations will be added. Germany, France, and Italy are potential future stops, ensuring that the airline strengthens its footprint in Europe’s premium travel market. By providing exceptional service and flying the A350 aircraft on European routes, STARLUX is well on its way to becoming a prominent player in long-haul, luxury air travel.

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Doha Becomes the Middle East’s Art Capital with the Launch of Art Basel Qatar 2026, Transforming the City into a Global Arts Hub

Doha is set to make history this February as it hosts the first-ever edition of Art Basel Qatar, marking a monumental shift in the Middle East’s cultural and tourism landscape. From 5th to 7th February 2026, Art Basel Qatar will bring together the world’s most prestigious contemporary galleries, artists, and collectors to showcase international art in Doha’s cultural heart at Msheireb Downtown Doha. This landmark event promises to position Qatar as a new global arts hub and a top cultural destination for travelers.

Qatar’s Bid to Become a Global Arts Destination

As Art Basel lands in Doha for the first time, it strengthens Qatar’s already ambitious cultural strategy. The partnership with Art Basel, renowned for hosting iconic art fairs in Basel, Miami Beach, Hong Kong, and Paris, demonstrates Qatar’s growing commitment to the arts. With a focus on international contemporary art, the fair will offer 84 artist presentations from 87 galleries, covering art from 31 countries. The event is a critical stepping stone in establishing Doha as a global cultural powerhouse.

Art Basel Qatar is set to attract art lovers, collectors, and cultural tourists from around the world. This event highlights Qatar’s long-term vision to become a cultural beacon, with the Qatar Museums, local cultural institutions, and Qatar Sports Investments leading the way.

A Premier Location: Msheireb Downtown Doha

Located in the iconic Msheireb Downtown Doha, the event will take place across some of the city’s most significant cultural venues, including M7 and the Doha Design District. Msheireb is known for its fusion of modern architecture with Qatari heritage, making it the perfect backdrop for the contemporary art fair. With exhibitions spread across multiple spaces, the fair will activate the city’s public spaces, providing visitors with immersive cultural experiences beyond the traditional gallery setting.

A Seamless Fusion of Art and Tourism

Art Basel Qatar will not just be a cultural showcase but a transformative tourism experience. The event is designed to blend art with Qatar’s thriving tourism scene, where visitors can enjoy the fair alongside other iconic cultural offerings, including exhibitions at the Museum of Islamic Art and National Museum of Qatar. For art tourists, Doha is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for a blend of world-class culture and luxury tourism.

The partnership between Art Basel and Qatar Airways will further elevate the experience, offering special travel packages and making it easier for international visitors to attend. Qatar Airways will provide seamless travel options, making Doha more accessible to a global audience, and enhancing Qatar’s tourism appeal.

Global Artists and Galleries Take Center Stage

This year’s fair will present some of the most prestigious international art galleries, including those from New York, London, Paris, and beyond. Visitors can expect to experience cutting-edge visual art, installations, and performances that challenge traditional boundaries. With art from regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America, Art Basel Qatar is set to become a bridge between the East and West, showcasing art that speaks to global issues while celebrating local culture.

Qatar Museums Leads the Cultural Charge

The strategic involvement of Qatar Museums has been key to Art Basel Qatar’s success. As an institution dedicated to both artistic excellence and cultural preservation, Qatar Museums has invested heavily in creating a cultural infrastructure that aligns with international standards. Their work in Doha is now internationally recognised, with world-class exhibitions and public art installations scattered throughout the city. Art Basel Qatar is another milestone in their ongoing mission to put Qatar firmly on the international art map.

Unveiling Special Projects and Public Programming

One of the unique features of Art Basel Qatar will be its public programming, designed to make the event accessible to a wider audience. From guided tours to open access days, the fair’s organizers have gone to great lengths to make contemporary art accessible for everyone, including first-time visitors, students, and local families. These programmes will deepen the connection between visitors and artists, sparking dialogue, and fostering deeper cultural engagement.

A Boost to Qatar’s Tourism Economy

Art Basel Qatar is expected to provide a major boost to the local tourism economy. Hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, and other travel-related services will experience significant demand during the fair, contributing to Qatar’s diversified tourism revenue streams. The event is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, enhancing the local economy not just in February, but in the long term by positioning Doha as a year-round cultural tourism destination.

What Visitors Can Expect from Art Basel Qatar 2026

For those planning to attend the inaugural Art Basel Qatar, here’s what you can expect:

• Global Artworks: Featuring artists from around the world, including both established and emerging names.
• Immersive Experiences: Special installations and performance art in public spaces.
• Cultural Programming: A wide range of talks, panel discussions, and artist workshops designed to deepen visitors’ understanding of contemporary art.
• Luxury Travel Options: Partnered travel packages with Qatar Airways, offering discounts and premium experiences for international visitors.

Qatar’s Vision for the Future

With Art Basel Qatar 2026, Doha’s cultural credentials are solidified. As a premium global art fair integrated into a dynamic city, this event represents a significant milestone in Qatar’s vision for cultural tourism. The fair’s impact extends beyond the event itself, enriching Doha’s cultural offerings and encouraging year-round tourism.

As global art collectors and tourists flock to Doha in February 2026, Qatar’s cultural landscape will continue to evolve, attracting a new wave of international visitors. With Art Basel Qatar paving the way, Doha’s future as a global arts tourism capital looks brighter than ever.

Image: Qatar Airways

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Liverpool (England), Joins Manchester (England), Paris (France), New York (USA) and the Stunning Lake District in a Tourism Uprising, Unlocking Epic Journeys Through North Wales’ Thrilling Outdoors, Chester’s Rich Heritage, and More Unforgettable British Experiences

VisitBritain has set the stage for a major transformation in UK tourism with its bold new initiative aimed at attracting more international visitors to Liverpool, Manchester, North Wales, the Lake District, and Chester. By promoting direct flights from Paris and New York, VisitBritain seeks to shift the flow of international tourism from the usual London-centric experience to a more diverse and immersive regional exploration. Through a strategic investment of £400,000 in the GREAT Gateway Innovation Fund, this initiative is set to boost travel to the North West and Wales, positioning these regions as new, compelling entry points for American and French tourists eager to experience the UK beyond its capital.

Why This Matters: A Strategic Shift for British Tourism

For decades, London has been the overwhelming focus of inbound tourism to the UK. However, VisitBritain is now pivoting towards regional gateways to bring attention to the diverse destinations of the North West of England and Wales. This strategic shift is not just about diversifying visitor arrivals—it’s about creating economic opportunities in regions outside the capital.

Through targeted marketing and collaborative partnerships, Liverpool and Manchester will serve as key entry points for international tourists from Paris and New York. These cities will act as launching pads for exploring the Lake District, Chester, and North Wales. By making it easier for American and French tourists to access the north via easyJet’s Paris to Liverpool route and Virgin Atlantic’s New York to Manchester flights, VisitBritain is ensuring that these regions see a surge in visitors, thereby spreading the economic benefits of tourism more evenly across the UK.

Key Routes and Their Impact: Paris to Liverpool and New York to Manchester

Two of the primary routes being promoted by VisitBritain are easyJet’s Paris–Liverpool flights and Virgin Atlantic’s New York–Manchester services. These direct connections are strategically positioned to unlock access to key destinations across the North West of England and Wales. Let’s explore how these routes are expected to shape tourism trends.

Table: Key Routes and Expected Impact

Flight Route	Airline	Primary Market	Key Destinations	Impact Goals
Paris to Liverpool	easyJet	French tourists	Liverpool, Lake District, Chester, North Wales	Increase French tourism, boost visits to regional landmarks
New York to Manchester	Virgin Atlantic	American tourists	Manchester, Peak District, Chester, Lancashire	Target American visitors, expand tourism to northern regions

By connecting Paris directly to Liverpool and New York to Manchester, these flights enable visitors to immerse themselves in the unique culture and landscapes of the Lake District, Chester, and North Wales—regions historically underrepresented in international travel marketing.

A £400,000 Investment to Boost Regional Tourism

VisitBritain’s £400,000 funding allocated to Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership and Marketing Manchester will support a series of marketing campaigns to target international tourists from France and the United States. These campaigns will highlight the cultural offerings, natural beauty, and historical landmarks of the North West of England and Wales, offering visitors a seamless travel experience that connects Manchester and Liverpool to surrounding regions.

Chart: Projected Impact of the £400,000 Funding on Regional Tourism

Expected Growth in Visitor Numbers and Spending (2026)

• USA: 5.5 million visits projected, £7.6 billion spend
• France: 3.7 million visits projected, £2.2 billion spend

The Role of Screen Tourism in Attracting International Visitors

One of the most exciting components of VisitBritain’s campaign is the ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ campaign, which leverages the popularity of screen tourism to draw visitors to iconic filming locations across the UK. Tourists from France and the United States will be encouraged to visit places they’ve seen on screen, including locations in Liverpool, the Lake District, and North Wales. For example, the Lake District was featured in Mission Impossible: Fallout, while North Wales is known for its Harry Potter and The Lion King filming locations.

Screen tourism has been shown to drive real-world visits to destinations, and VisitBritain has seen a £217 million boost in visitor spending thanks to this campaign. For every £1 spent on the campaign, £20 in additional spending was generated by international visitors.

Tourism Forecast for 2026: How France and the USA Are Key Markets

With France and the United States remaining two of the UK’s largest sources of international visitors, VisitBritain has high expectations for 2026 tourism growth. Projections show significant increases in both the number of visitors and visitor spending from these countries:

Table: Tourism Projections for 2026 from France and the USA

Country	Projected Visits	Projected Spend	Growth (Visits)	Growth (Spend)
United States	5.5 million	£7.6 billion	+1%	+4%
France	3.7 million	£2.2 billion	+4%	+7%

This expected growth demonstrates the success of the gateway initiative, encouraging French and American visitors to travel directly to Liverpool and Manchester, bypassing London to access the best of the UK’s regional destinations.

Liverpool and Manchester as Key Regional Gateways

Liverpool and Manchester will serve as key regional gateways, facilitating greater tourism dispersal to the wider North West and Wales. As part of the GREAT Gateway Innovation Fund, these cities will be showcased not only as destinations in their own right but also as access points to the Lake District, Chester, and North Wales—regions that offer both urban excitement and natural beauty.

By focusing on direct flights, VisitBritain aims to make regional travel more accessible for international visitors. In addition to the cultural and natural experiences available in Liverpool, Manchester, and surrounding areas, visitors will also be encouraged to extend their stays by exploring nearby locations like the Peak District, Chester, and Lancashire.

Collaborative Partnerships: A United Effort for Regional Tourism Growth

To ensure the success of this initiative, VisitBritain has teamed up with multiple key partners across the tourism sector. These include airlines like easyJet and Virgin Atlantic, airports such as Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, and regional tourism boards like Cumbria Tourism and Visit Wales.

By working together, these partners are helping to create a cohesive tourism experience that will guide international visitors through a journey of exploration, from Liverpool’s vibrant culture to North Wales’ adventure-filled landscapes, and from the historic beauty of Chester to the peaceful serenity of the Lake District. This multi-sector collaboration ensures that the £400,000 investment will have a far-reaching impact across the UK’s regional tourism landscape.

The Future of UK Regional Tourism: Expanding Access and Opportunity

This groundbreaking initiative by VisitBritain represents a significant step in decentralising UK tourism, ensuring that more regions—specifically Liverpool, Manchester, North Wales, and the Lake District—are positioned as leading destinations for international travellers. Through strategic partnerships, direct flight routes, and innovative marketing campaigns like the ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ campaign, VisitBritain is successfully expanding the UK’s tourism offerings beyond London.

As tourist arrivals from Paris and New York increase, these regions will benefit from an economic uplift, with more international visitors exploring the best that Liverpool, Manchester, and the surrounding areas have to offer. By making it easier for American and French visitors to access these regional gateways, VisitBritain is not only growing tourism but ensuring that the benefits are shared across a wider area.

Conclusion: A New Era of Regional Tourism for the UK

Through the £400,000 investment in Liverpool and Manchester, VisitBritain has set the stage for a revolutionary shift in how international tourists experience the UK. By positioning regional gateways as accessible and enticing options, the initiative ensures that visitors can experience the best of Liverpool, Manchester, and the North West, while contributing to a more equitable tourism distribution across the UK. As the GREAT Gateway Innovation Fund continues to unlock the potential of the Lake District, Chester, and North Wales, these regions will thrive as must-visit destinations in their own right, ensuring that the UK’s tourism future is bright and diverse.

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