Warbirds Downunder Cancelled for 2026 – Temora Aviation Museum Reinvents Itself as a Must‑Visit Aviation Travel Destination

TEMORA, NSW, AUSTRALIA — After more than two decades of thrilling aerial pageantry, the iconic Warbirds Downunder airshow will not take place in 2026. The decision came as organisers at the Temora Aviation Museum acknowledged rising operational costs, insurance challenges and the growing difficulty of securing volunteers for such a large event. 

While this news may disappoint warbird enthusiasts, it opens a new chapter for travellers seeking unique experiences in Australia’s aviation heartland.

A Destination Steeped in Aviation History

The Temora Aviation Museum is one of Australia’s most important aviation heritage sites. It houses one of the world’s most outstanding collections of historic aircraft, many of which are maintained in flying condition. 

Visitors can explore famous warbirds such as vintage Supermarine Spitfires, Tiger Moths and iconic military planes that played a role in Australia’s aviation history. 

Located on the plains of southern New South Wales, Temora’s aerodrome has a strong history dating back to World War II when it hosted the Royal Australian Air Force’s No. 10 Elementary Flying Training School. 

This blend of living aircraft heritage and historical context makes Temora a compelling destination for global travellers, aviation lovers and history buffs alike.

Showcase Days to Keep the Skies Alive

In place of Warbirds Downunder in 2026, the museum will host two dedicated Aircraft Showcase Days — on 2 May and 19 September. 

These events invite visitors to witness flying displays, meet pilots, hear commentary and explore static aircraft exhibits up close. They are designed to be family‑friendly and accessible to visitors of all ages. 

This shift toward more regular but focused showcase events gives travellers flexible options to plan their visit around engaging aviation experiences.

Immersive Experiences Beyond the Runway

Temora’s appeal isn’t limited to aerial displays. The museum offers both guided and self‑guided tours, supported by NSW Government funding, that enrich the visitor experience. 

The self‑guided audio tour is available in multiple languages — including English, German, Japanese and Chinese — giving international tourists insight into the aircraft, their crews, and the historical eras they represent. 

For those seeking even more immersion, the museum features Warbird flight simulators, allowing visitors to experience piloting historic aircraft in realistic sessions. 

Stay Close to the Action at SkyLodge

The SkyLodge Accommodation at the museum offers a truly unique stay. Travellers can wake up steps from iconic aircraft, enjoy aviation‑themed surroundings and soak in the museum’s atmosphere after hours. 

This on‑site lodging enriches the travel experience and is ideal for international visitors who want to maximize their time in Temora and the Riverina region.

What Else to Explore in Temora

Temora itself is a welcoming regional town in the Riverina, known for its rich agricultural landscape and historic attractions. 

While in the region, travellers can add other highlights like the Temora Rural Museum, scenic walking paths, and local dining experiences to their itinerary.

Temora’s location also makes it a practical base for exploring nearby cities — about a 50‑minute drive from Wagga Wagga, a two‑hour trip from Canberra, and approximately four hours by road from Sydney. 

Planning Your Visit: Essentials for Global Tourists

• Location: 1 Tom Moon Avenue, Temora, NSW 2666, Australia. 
• Hours: 10 am–4 pm daily (closed major holidays). 
• Entry: Affordable admissions with family and group options. 
• Amenities: On‑site café, picnic areas and EV charging. 
• Highlights: Historic aircraft collection, flight simulators, immersive tours and aircraft showcase days. 

A Compelling Aviation Travel Destination

Though Warbirds Downunder won’t fly in 2026, Temora’s aviation legacy remains strong. The redesigned event calendar, combined with rich historical storytelling and interactive experiences, makes the Temora Aviation Museum a travel highlight for global aviation enthusiasts.

Whether you’re chasing flying displays, immersive tours, or simply want to stand beside a piece of living history, Temora delivers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Australia’s aviation country. 

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West Africa Travel Transparency in Focus as Women Parliamentarians Raise Budget Concerns in ECOWAS

Financial transparency concerns within the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA) are drawing attention across West Africa. The issue may influence future regional mobility and travel cooperation initiatives.

During a recent extraordinary parliamentary session, association leaders expressed concern over limited access to financial information. Members said they lacked clarity about how the association’s annual budget was spent.

The issue has sparked wider discussions about governance and accountability within regional institutions that shape travel and mobility across West Africa.

Questions Over Budget Oversight

Association members said the administrative department managed finances with little executive involvement. Newly elected leadership reportedly lacked access to key financial documents.

According to the president of the association, executive members were still waiting for formal job descriptions and details of financial management structures. She indicated that even information about official bank accounts and signatories had not been provided.

Members explained that they only received updates on planned activities rather than detailed spending reports.

Several parliamentarians said repeated requests for financial clarification had not produced results. They expressed concern that the executives were responsible for programs without being involved in budgeting decisions.

Calls for Financial Reform

Members proposed opening a new bank account to improve transparency. However, the suggestion faced legal uncertainty because the association operates under the ECOWAS Parliament structure.

Some parliamentarians stressed that budget planning should involve elected officials directly. They argued that stronger financial oversight would improve accountability and program delivery.

Members emphasized that future budgets should reflect clearly defined activities and costs before submission to the parliament’s finance directorate.

Importance for Regional Travel Programs

The ECOWAS Parliament plays a key role in strengthening cooperation and regional integration across West Africa.

Such cooperation directly affects travelers. ECOWAS policies support cross-border mobility, tourism, and economic exchange throughout the region.

Citizens of member states benefit from visa-free movement and residency rights across ECOWAS countries.

Travel initiatives under discussion also include reducing airfare costs and improving regional connectivity. These measures aim to make West African travel easier and more affordable.

Transparent budgeting is considered essential for implementing these regional mobility projects.

Women Parliamentarians and Regional Development

ECOFEPA represents female lawmakers from ECOWAS member states and works to increase women’s participation in regional decision-making.

Outgoing leadership highlighted progress toward achieving stronger female representation in the ECOWAS Parliament. Members noted that encouraging countries to nominate more women had been a major achievement.

Former leadership pledged continued cooperation with the new executive team. Experienced members said they would share lessons learned from decades of parliamentary service.

They emphasized unity as essential for advancing women’s influence across West Africa.

Rising Interest in Multi-Country West Africa Travel

West Africa is becoming increasingly attractive to international travelers seeking multi-country cultural journeys. Improved cooperation within ECOWAS is helping promote seamless regional travel experiences.

Tourism authorities across the region are working to develop cross-border routes connecting historic cities, coastal resorts, and cultural heritage destinations. These initiatives depend heavily on coordinated planning and transparent funding.

Government tourism agencies have highlighted the importance of regional partnerships in promoting sustainable travel growth. Well-managed institutional budgets help support tourism training, infrastructure improvements, and visitor services.

Travel experts note that ECOWAS-backed programs could make it easier for visitors to explore multiple countries within a single trip. This includes combined itineraries linking major capitals and emerging destinations.

Better financial transparency within regional organizations could strengthen traveler confidence and encourage international investment in tourism infrastructure.

As global interest in Africa grows, effective management of regional programs will play a major role in shaping West Africa’s future as a connected travel destination

What It Means for Travelers

For global travelers, ECOWAS remains one of Africa’s most promising regions for multi-country travel experiences.

Regional integration policies aim to simplify border crossings and improve transport links. These changes support tourism growth across coastal and inland destinations.

However, institutional transparency remains important for sustaining travel-friendly policies.

Improved governance could help accelerate tourism initiatives and regional infrastructure development.

Travelers planning trips across West Africa should expect continued progress toward easier mobility and improved connectivity in the coming years.

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Overseas Celebrations Follow Major Strikes on Iran

Large gatherings of Persians and Iranian Americans took place across several U.S. cities after reports emerged of coordinated military strikes on Iran.

Many participants gathered in public spaces and celebrated what they viewed as a historic moment for Iran’s future.

Demonstrators waved American and Iranian flags while expressing hopes for political change in the country.

In Washington, D.C., groups assembled near major landmarks and participated in spontaneous celebrations that lasted late into the evening.

Observers described a festive atmosphere with music playing and people sharing emotional reactions to the unfolding events.

Similar gatherings were reported in Los Angeles, home to one of the largest Iranian communities outside Iran.

Participants danced in the streets and expressed appreciation for Israeli leadership while calling for change inside Iran.

The demonstrations reflected deep divisions among Iranians worldwide regarding the country’s political future.

Confirmation of Supreme Leader’s Death

Iranian state media later confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had died following the strikes.

Earlier reports about his death had been denied before the official confirmation was released.

U.S. President Donald Trump later announced that the military operation had resulted in Khamenei’s death.

He described the event as long-awaited justice for people harmed by Iran’s leadership over several decades.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that intelligence assessments strongly indicated that the Iranian leader had been killed.

He explained that Israeli and U.S. forces targeted Khamenei’s main compound during the initial phase of the operation.

According to security sources, the strike caused heavy destruction in parts of Tehran.

Reports indicated that dozens of senior Iranian political and security officials were also killed.

The strikes represent one of the most significant developments in Middle East geopolitics in recent decades.

Leaders Encourage Political Change

American and Israeli leaders encouraged Iranians to consider shaping a new political future.

Trump stated that Iranians should take the opportunity to regain control of their country if conditions allow.

He suggested that the current moment might represent a rare chance for political transformation.

Netanyahu also expressed the view that the operation could create conditions for Iranians to determine their own future.

These statements have drawn global attention and increased political tensions in the region.

Growing Impact on Global Travel

The conflict has quickly affected international travel patterns and airline operations.

Several aviation authorities have issued warnings about operating flights over conflict zones.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation advised airlines to avoid several Middle Eastern airspaces because of safety concerns.

These advisories have affected important routes linking Asia and Europe.

Flights traveling between major global hubs now face longer travel times due to detours.

Airlines have adjusted flight paths to reduce exposure to potential security risks.

These changes have increased fuel costs and operational complexity for carriers.

Travelers may experience schedule changes or unexpected delays.

Airspace Restrictions Affect Tourism Routes

Temporary airspace restrictions have affected major transit hubs in the Gulf region.

Some departures from key airports were briefly suspended while airlines reviewed safety conditions.

Transit hubs such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai play an important role in global tourism.

Millions of passengers use these airports every year to connect between continents.

Even short disruptions in these hubs can affect travel worldwide.

Passengers traveling between Europe and Asia have been especially affected.

Tour operators have reported increased inquiries from travelers seeking updated information.

Many travelers are reconsidering routes that pass through the Middle East.

Government Travel Advisories Intensify

Government agencies have issued updated guidance for international travelers.

The U.S. Department of State released a worldwide caution notice urging travelers to remain vigilant.

Officials warned that regional conflicts can cause sudden disruptions to transportation systems.

Travelers were advised to monitor official information sources before departure.

Iran continues to remain under a strict “Do Not Travel” advisory due to security risks and political instability.

British authorities also warned travelers about the risks of protests and possible communication disruptions.

Officials stressed that travelers should avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.

Foreign nationals could face detention risks in sensitive areas.

Travelers were urged to keep identification documents accessible at all times.

Security Tightened in Major Cities

Authorities in several countries increased security around sensitive locations.

Diplomatic buildings and cultural centers are receiving additional protection.

Transport infrastructure including airports and train stations is under closer monitoring.

These measures are designed to reduce risks connected to possible retaliatory actions.

However, enhanced security checks may result in longer waiting times for travelers.

Tourists should plan extra time for airport procedures.

Large public gatherings may face additional screening requirements.

Travel Planning in a Time of Uncertainty

Travelers planning trips to the Middle East should remain flexible.

Conditions in the region may change with little warning.

Airline schedules may be revised quickly depending on security developments.

Travel insurance that covers disruptions is strongly recommended.

Tourists should register travel plans with their embassy when possible.

Mobile alerts from government travel services can provide useful updates.

Monitoring airline notifications can help avoid unexpected disruptions.

Travel experts recommend choosing flexible tickets when visiting the region.

Tourism Outlook Remains Unclear

The long-term impact on tourism remains uncertain.

Some destinations in the Middle East continue operating normally despite the tensions.

Popular Gulf tourism hubs remain open and welcoming visitors.

However, travelers may choose alternative routes or destinations in the short term.

Industry analysts expect travel demand to fluctuate as the situation develops.

The region remains a critical crossroads for global aviation and tourism.

Even small disruptions can have global consequences.

For international travelers, careful planning and awareness are essential.

Reliable government travel advisories remain the most important source of information.

Staying informed will allow travelers to continue exploring the world safely despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

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Eurovision Stars The Roop Prepare for a Travel-Inspiring European Tour

Lithuanian pop band The Roop is preparing for an extensive European tour beginning in March. The group gained international recognition after representing Lithuania at the Eurovision Song Contest.

Their performances helped introduce modern Lithuanian music to global audiences. Now, the band is bringing that energy to live audiences across Europe.

Ahead of the tour, the group shared that their upcoming shows will feature lively stage performances and familiar Eurovision hits. The concerts will also include newer songs and interactive moments designed for fans.

The band expressed appreciation for their international supporters and welcomed travelers planning trips around the concerts.

Music fans will also have opportunities to win tickets for selected tour dates.

A European Concert Journey for Travelers

The tour begins on March 8 in Dublin and continues through several major European destinations. The schedule includes performances across Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany.

A newly announced concert in Istanbul expands the tour route and adds a unique cultural destination.

The tour provides an opportunity for travelers to combine sightseeing with live music experiences. Visitors can explore historic neighborhoods and local attractions during the day and attend concerts at night.

Concert tourism has become increasingly popular among younger travelers and cultural explorers. Many travelers now plan city breaks around live performances and festivals.

The Roop’s tour offers a multi-country travel experience linked through music and culture.

Eurovision Success Elevated Lithuania’s Global Profile

The Roop first gained global attention when they were selected to represent Lithuania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 with the song On Fire. The entry was widely considered a strong contender before the event was cancelled due to the pandemic.

The group returned to Eurovision in 2021 with Discoteque. Their performance finished eighth in the Grand Final, marking Lithuania’s second-best Eurovision result and one of its strongest modern achievements.

Lithuania first participated in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994. The country returned to the competition in 1999 and gradually improved its results.

Lithuania achieved its highest Eurovision placement in 2006 when LT United finished sixth with the song We Are The Winners. Other notable results include Donny Montell’s top ten finish in 2016 and The Roop’s strong result in 2021.

These Eurovision milestones helped raise Lithuania’s cultural profile internationally and attracted new audiences interested in Lithuanian music and creativity.

Lithuania Uses Culture and Music to Attract Visitors

Lithuania continues to promote itself as a cultural destination through national tourism initiatives. According to the Lithuanian Ministry of the Economy and Innovation, tourism development remains a national priority.

The national tourism promotion agency works to introduce Lithuania to global audiences through cultural campaigns and international partnerships.

Government tourism programs encourage visitors to explore Lithuanian heritage alongside modern creative industries. Music, arts, and festivals are increasingly important parts of Lithuania’s tourism identity.

Travelers inspired by Eurovision often include Lithuania on their travel plans. Many visitors explore Vilnius, the capital city known for its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Lithuania offers a mix of medieval old towns, coastal landscapes, and contemporary art spaces. These experiences complement the country’s growing reputation in international music events.

Discover Lithuania Beyond the Eurovision Stage

Fans attending The Roop concerts often develop a deeper interest in Lithuania itself. The band’s distinctive style reflects the country’s modern creative energy.

Music provides travelers with a unique way to understand Lithuanian culture. Live performances offer a personal connection that goes beyond traditional sightseeing.

Travelers visiting Lithuania can experience historic town squares, local markets, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Seasonal events and concerts create opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange.

Lithuania’s compact size also makes it easy to explore multiple destinations in a single trip. Efficient transport links connect major cities and cultural sites.

A Musical Invitation to Explore Europe

The Roop’s European tour offers more than a series of concerts. It creates a travel route linking diverse cultures and destinations.

Fans can experience different European cities while following the band’s performances. Each destination offers its own cultural traditions and travel experiences.

The band’s Eurovision journey continues to inspire international audiences. Their upcoming tour strengthens the connection between music and travel.

For global travelers seeking cultural experiences, The Roop’s tour presents an exciting way to explore Europe while discovering the creative spirit of Lithuania.

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Indigenous Tourism Trailblazer Dame Pania Tyson-Nathan DNZM to Keynote CTO Sustainable Tourism Conference in Belize

Belize City, Belize – February 27, 2026 — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced that Dame Pania Tyson-Nathan DNZM, Chief Executive of New Zealand Māori Tourism (NZMT), will deliver the keynote address at the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development (STC 2026).

Themed “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies,” the conference will run from April 27-30, 2026, in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, offering a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore integrated, sustainable tourism solutions.

A Global Voice for Indigenous-Led Tourism

Dame Pania Tyson-Nathan is globally recognized for advancing indigenous-led tourism. Since 2009, she has championed a values-based model that positions cultural identity, community well-being, and environmental stewardship at the heart of economic success. Her leadership has transformed Aotearoa New Zealand’s tourism sector, embedding Māori values of guardianship and intergenerational sustainability into national tourism frameworks.

Her keynote at STC 2026 symbolizes the growing connections between the Caribbean and Māori approaches to tourism, highlighting the emerging “purple economy”, where cultural integrity, social cohesion, and inclusive growth converge.

“We are honored to welcome Dame Pania to the Caribbean stage at such a pivotal time for our industry,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO Secretary-General and CEO. “Her pioneering work in ‘culturalizing commerce’ aligns seamlessly with our ‘Tourism in Full Color’ vision. Dame Pania’s insights will inspire us to embrace integrated models that honor heritage while safeguarding our environmental and economic future.”

Tourism in Full Color

The 17th edition of STC, hosted in collaboration with the Belize Tourism Board, moves beyond conventional sustainability silos to explore the interplay among critical economic pillars:

• Blue and Green Economies – advancing marine conservation, climate resilience, and low-carbon growth.
• Orange Economy – harnessing the creative and cultural potential of the region’s heritage industries.
• Beyond Economies (including Purple) – prioritizing indigenous knowledge, social cohesion, and regenerative prosperity.

“As a nation where indigenous heritage and natural landscapes define who we are, Belize is proud to host STC 2026,” said Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations. “From the enduring legacy of the ancient Maya to the UNESCO-recognized Garifuna traditions, and from our forests to the Barrier Reef, our story reflects the resilience of these communities and the lands they have long cared for. Welcoming global leaders like Dame Pania underscores that indigenous wisdom is not only part of our past but a blueprint for a sustainable future.”

Tourism in Full Color

The 17th edition of STC, hosted in collaboration with the Belize Tourism Board, moves beyond conventional sustainability silos to explore the interplay among critical economic pillars:

• Blue and Green Economies – advancing marine conservation, climate resilience, and low-carbon growth.
• Orange Economy – harnessing the creative and cultural potential of the region’s heritage industries.
• Beyond Economies (including Purple) – prioritizing indigenous knowledge, social cohesion, and regenerative prosperity.

“As a nation where indigenous heritage and natural landscapes define who we are, Belize is proud to host STC 2026,” said Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations. “From the enduring legacy of the ancient Maya to the UNESCO-recognized Garifuna traditions, and from our forests to the Barrier Reef, our story reflects the resilience of these communities and the lands they have long cared for. Welcoming global leaders like Dame Pania underscores that indigenous wisdom is not only part of our past but a blueprint for a sustainable future.”

A Legacy of Leadership

With over 30 years of experience, Dame Pania has earned numerous accolades:

• Named among the Top 50 Global Tourism Innovators (2021)
• Inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame (2022)
• Appointed Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (2024) for services to Māori and business

Her presence at STC 2026 offers a unique opportunity for delegates to engage with cutting-edge practices in sustainable, indigenous-led tourism, providing inspiration for integrating culture, community, and environment into tourism development.

Travel & Experience Belize

Delegates attending STC 2026 can experience Belize’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich indigenous heritage beyond the conference halls. Highlights include:

• Ambergris Caye & Hol Chan Marine Reserve – Snorkel or dive among Belize’s renowned coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
• Ancient Maya Sites – Explore iconic archaeological sites such as Altun Ha and Lamanai, where history comes alive.
• Garifuna Cultural Experiences – Enjoy drumming, dance, and cuisine from Belize’s vibrant Garifuna communities.
• Rainforest Adventures – Zipline through lush forests, hike pristine trails, or visit wildlife sanctuaries that showcase Belize’s rich biodiversity.
• Local Cuisine & Markets – Taste fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes while exploring local artisan markets.

This combination of professional development and immersive travel experiences makes STC 2026 a unique opportunity to witness sustainable tourism in action while enjoying one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque destinations.

A Legacy of Leadership

With over 30 years of experience, Dame Pania has earned numerous accolades:

• Named among the Top 50 Global Tourism Innovators (2021)
• Inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame (2022)
• Appointed Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (2024) for services to Māori and business

Her presence at STC 2026 offers a unique opportunity for delegates to engage with cutting-edge practices in sustainable, indigenous-led tourism, providing inspiration for integrating culture, community, and environment into tourism development.

Conference Highlights

Over four days, STC 2026 will feature:

• Ministerial roundtables addressing policy innovation
• Masterclasses led by global tourism experts
• Field-based learning experiences offering hands-on insights into Belize’s sustainable tourism initiatives

Delegates will gain firsthand exposure to practices that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation, a cornerstone of the conference’s vision for a regenerative tourism economy.

Registration for STC 2026 is now open, inviting tourism professionals, policymakers, investors, and indigenous leaders from across the Caribbean and beyond to participate in this transformative dialogue.

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RIU Hotels Deepens Travel Safety Commitments in the Americas

Global travellers seeking safe and responsible holiday experiences now have another reason to feel secure in popular destinations. RIU Hotels & Resorts has announced a major expansion of its efforts to prevent the sexual exploitation of children within tourism operations. The hotel chain’s new agreements in the United States and the Dominican Republic build on its long‑standing child protection work throughout the Americas.

These partnerships come at a time when responsible tourism and child safety are becoming central to sustainable travel goals. Experts say the travel and tourism industry is uniquely positioned to protect children because of its reach across hotels, attractions and transport services worldwide.

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New Alliances with PACT USA and MAIS‑ECPAT

In the United States, RIU Hotels formalised cooperation with PACT USA by becoming a “Changemaker for Protection.” This elevated membership level requires hotels to expand internal policies, increase staff training and take structured action aligned with international standards for child protection.

The agreement in the Dominican Republic with MAIS‑ECPAT also places child protection at the heart of daily hotel operations. Under this partnership, RIU will better inform guests, train staff, and strengthen reporting procedures to ensure any suspicious behaviour is quickly recognised and addressed.

For travellers, these steps mean more vigilant and prepared staff at RIU properties in key destinations. The measures help families feel safer and more confident when choosing holiday stays.

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Enhanced Action in Quintana Roo, Mexico

In Quintana Roo — home to Cancún and the Riviera Maya, two of the world’s most visited beach destinations — RIU joined forces with ECPAT Mexico and the state tourism authority to implement a formal protection protocol for children and adolescents across the tourism sector.

Local officials praised RIU’s role in bringing public and private partners together for child safety, recognising that responsible hospitality enhances the visitor experience and supports community wellbeing. By boosting protective measures, the region demonstrates its commitment to safe, family‑friendly tourism.

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What Is The Code and Why It Matters for Travel

A central part of RIU’s strategy is its connection to The Code — the Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism. This global initiative, backed by ECPAT International, sets voluntary criteria that tourism businesses commit to in order to keep children safe.

Under The Code, companies agree to implement measures such as:

• adopting formal child protection policies,
• training staff around the world,
• adding clauses to supplier contracts rejecting exploitation, and
• providing travellers with clear information on how to report concerns.

The Code’s mission is to equip the tourism industry with tools and awareness to recognise and prevent sexual exploitation, a crime that can occur in hotels, attractions, transport hubs and other travel settings.

For travellers, choosing companies that uphold The Code means supporting tourism providers committed to ethical and safe travel for all.

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Part of RIU’s Broader Sustainability Strategy

These new agreements are woven into RIU’s “Proudly Committed” sustainability plan. The strategy focuses on promoting the health, education and protection of children around the world. Since first working with ECPAT and The Code in 2012, RIU has developed internal protocols, tools and a zero‑tolerance clause in supplier contracts to ensure child safety across its operations.

The company has been recognised as a Top Member of ECPAT, reflecting its leadership in the travel sector on this issue.

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What This Means for Global Travellers

For families, solo explorers and eco‑conscious tourists, these enhanced measures offer peace of mind. With trained staff and clear reporting processes in place, guests at RIU properties can enjoy world‑class hospitality with an added layer of confidence in destination safety.

Responsible travel is not just about beautiful beaches and cultural experiences; it also means choosing hotels that take social responsibility seriously. RIU’s expanded efforts position it as a travel partner dedicated to safe, ethical and memorable holidays.

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