Istanbul to Become the Heart of Global Tourism Investment in February 2026, Hosting Key Discussions on the Next Phase of Tourism Growth and Innovation

Istanbul is set to become the focal point of global tourism investment in February 2026, as it hosts the highly anticipated Tourism Investment Forum. This event, which will take place at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, will bring together influential leaders, financial institutions, and policymakers to discuss the future of tourism. With the global tourism investment industry projected to grow significantly, Istanbul’s strategic location and robust tourism infrastructure make it the ideal city to lead these vital conversations. The forum will focus on shaping the next phase of tourism growth and innovation, addressing emerging trends, financing strategies, and luxury tourism developments that will drive the sector forward.

Istanbul is gearing up to host the prestigious Tourism Investment Forum 2026 on 10–11 February at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus. This landmark event will bring together prominent global investors, hotel brands, financial institutions, and policymakers, all focused on shaping the future of tourism investment. As one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings, the forum offers an unparalleled opportunity to discuss and explore the key trends, strategies, and challenges that define the global tourism landscape.

Organised by the Turkish Tourism Investors Association, with support from the Investment Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, and for the first time, main sponsorship from Türkiye İş Bankası, the event is rapidly becoming one of the most influential international platforms for tourism investment. With over 90 expert speakers, more than 20 sessions, and an expected 1,500 senior participants, the forum promises to provide valuable insights and opportunities for all those involved.

The context of the forum is set against the backdrop of an ever-growing global tourism investment market, valued at an impressive $11.7 trillion in 2025, with projections pointing to a staggering $16.5 trillion by 2035, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. This sharp upward trajectory in tourism investment highlights the importance of global collaboration and strategic investment in driving the industry’s future success. During the two-day forum, discussions will focus on critical topics such as financing, new travel trends, the growth of luxury and lifestyle brands, the influence of culture and arts, the expansion of wellness and medical tourism, and investment opportunities within Türkiye.

In particular, the forum seeks to connect global capital with Türkiye’s rapidly expanding tourism sector, offering a platform for investors to gain insight into the opportunities that await in the country’s thriving tourism market. The event is positioned to showcase Türkiye as a destination that is not only rich in culture and history but also one that is fostering innovation and growth within the global tourism ecosystem.

While Türkiye continues to hold its position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, the country faces an increasingly competitive landscape. As rival markets invest heavily in infrastructure and tourism development, Türkiye must keep pace to maintain its strong standing. The surge in visitors to southern Europe, combined with major tourism expansions in the Middle East and North Africa, signals the urgent need for long-term planning and international collaboration. These regions’ ongoing efforts to enhance their tourism offerings highlight the importance of strategic investment and a forward-thinking approach to remain competitive.

At the heart of the forum is the recognition that Türkiye must leverage its unique cultural assets while integrating innovative approaches to tourism development. By focusing on sustainability, luxury travel, and creating experiences that cater to the evolving preferences of global travelers, Türkiye aims to continue to attract tourists from all over the world, while remaining at the forefront of the tourism investment sector.

The organisers of the forum see TIF 2026 as a vital platform to bring Türkiye closer to global capital flows. With the global travel and tourism ecosystem expected to grow by nearly 50% by 2035, Türkiye’s tourism industry must adapt to shifting trends and align with international capital to tap into this growth. By strengthening Istanbul’s role as a hub for decision-makers and investors, the forum aims to position the city as a key meeting point for those shaping the next decade of tourism development worldwide.

Since its inception in 2020, the Tourism Investment Forum has consistently expanded its international profile. Each year, the event attracts hundreds of global investors, hotel operators, fund managers, and financial institutions, all eager to engage in discussions about the future of tourism. The success of the previous editions, with over 750 international participants in 2025, has reinforced the forum’s reputation as one of the premier gatherings for tourism investment professionals. This growth demonstrates the increasing recognition of the event as an essential part of the global tourism investment calendar.

TIF 2026 will again bring together investors, developers, global hotel brands, public sector representatives, and industry leaders for two days of in-depth panels, networking opportunities, and discussions. The forum is designed to facilitate collaboration and dialogue, aiming to create a shared vision for the future of Türkiye’s tourism industry. By bringing together key players from all aspects of the tourism sector, the event provides a unique opportunity to forge partnerships and identify new investment avenues that will shape the future of global tourism.

The organisers hope that through the exchange of ideas and collaboration during the forum, Türkiye’s tourism sector can accelerate its growth and further strengthen its position within the rapidly expanding global travel investment landscape. This will not only benefit the country’s economy but will also ensure that Türkiye remains a key player in the competitive global tourism market.

As the global tourism investment landscape continues to evolve, events like the Tourism Investment Forum 2026 are crucial in shaping the trajectory of the industry. By providing a platform for open dialogue, strategic networking, and investment opportunities, the forum will continue to play a pivotal role in connecting global capital with the thriving tourism sector in Türkiye. Through the event’s sessions and discussions, participants will gain insight into the latest trends, technologies, and market dynamics that are shaping the future of the tourism industry, both in Türkiye and globally.

Istanbul will host the Tourism Investment Forum in February 2026, positioning itself as the heart of global tourism investment due to its strategic location and robust tourism infrastructure, driving discussions on the next phase of industry growth and innovation.

the Tourism Investment Forum 2026 presents an exciting opportunity for Türkiye to further solidify its standing as a leader in the global tourism sector. With an impressive lineup of speakers, thought-provoking discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, the forum will undoubtedly play a key role in driving the next phase of growth for Türkiye’s tourism industry. By focusing on sustainability, innovation, and investment, the event aims to position Türkiye as a beacon of success within the rapidly evolving global travel landscape.

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Bhairahawa Airport to Revitalize Tourism and Flight Traffic with New Plan Targeting Sustainable International Connectivity Between Thailand and Nepal

Bhairahawa Airport, the gateway to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, is set to undergo a major transformation with a new tourism growth plan aimed at boosting international flight traffic. This initiative, developed in collaboration with local businesses, tourism associations, and government officials, seeks to enhance the airport’s connectivity, focusing on regular international flights between Thailand and Nepal. By promoting key regional destinations and leveraging the cultural significance of Lumbini, the plan aims to attract more foreign tourists, ensuring the sustainability of the airport’s operations and a steady increase in passenger numbers. This strategic effort will foster long-term economic growth and bolster Nepal’s position as a top destination for international visitors.

A new tourism growth initiative has been launched to revitalize international flight services at the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, Nepal. Located near the birthplace of Lord Buddha, this airport is considered a vital entry point for international tourists visiting Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, despite its potential, the airport has struggled to maintain consistent international flight operations due to a shortage of passengers. The newly introduced plan aims to address this issue by increasing tourist arrivals, which is seen as the key to ensuring the airport can sustain regular international flights.

Gautam Buddha International Airport, which opened its doors nearly four years ago, initially attracted considerable attention with the promise of connecting Nepal to various international destinations. Since its inception, the airport has seen several international flight services introduced. However, despite these efforts, services from Bhairahawa have remained irregular. The primary challenge has been the consistent underperformance of the airport in terms of passenger traffic, particularly from international tourists.

As part of the new growth plan, the airport management has collaborated with local business leaders, industrialists, and travel associations from the region to develop a comprehensive strategy to boost tourist numbers. The plan focuses on promoting Lumbini and other regional destinations, capitalizing on the cultural and religious significance of the area. By increasing awareness of the attractions and experiences in Lumbini Province, the hope is to generate more international interest in visiting the region and, ultimately, fill the flights arriving at Gautam Buddha International Airport.

The plan’s strategy revolves around the idea that a steady influx of international tourists is essential to sustaining regular international flight services. The airport officials recognize that if there is a continuous flow of tourists to Nepal, airlines will have the financial incentive to operate regular services from the airport. This would create a sustainable ecosystem where the demand for flights and the number of passengers coming to Nepal would work in harmony.

In addition to promoting Lumbini and its nearby attractions, the plan also aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure in the region. This includes improving accommodations, transportation, and overall visitor experiences to ensure that tourists have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. By providing a seamless travel experience, the initiative hopes to increase the length of stay for international tourists and encourage them to explore more of Nepal, beyond just Lumbini.

One key aspect of the strategy is the engagement of local stakeholders. Businesspeople and tour operators from Rupandehi and Lumbini Province have been heavily involved in the development of the growth plan. Their input is seen as crucial because they understand the local tourism market and are aware of the challenges and opportunities in the area. By working together, they hope to create a united front in promoting the region as a desirable tourist destination.

The success of this plan hinges on attracting not just international tourists, but also international airlines. Airport authorities believe that once the region’s attractions are effectively promoted and tourist traffic increases, airlines will be more willing to operate regular services to and from Bhairahawa. The key challenge remains in proving the long-term viability of these routes, with airlines needing assurances that there will be enough demand to sustain their operations.

To further support this initiative, the airport has reached out to international organizations, government bodies, and tourism promotion agencies to help boost its profile. The Nepal Tourism Board, for instance, is expected to play an essential role in helping promote the airport and Lumbini Province on the global stage. Collaborative efforts with international tourism agencies will be key in driving awareness and interest in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, especially among tourists who might not have considered visiting the region in the past.

An example of the potential for increased international traffic at the airport came recently when a member of the Thai royal family visited Lumbini. She traveled through India and stayed at the Royal Thai Monastery in Lumbini, before returning home on a chartered flight from Gautam Buddha International Airport. This visit demonstrates that, with the right promotion, the airport can attract high-profile international visitors, which can further boost its credibility and appeal to other travelers.

Despite the challenges faced by Gautam Buddha International Airport, the vision for its future remains optimistic. With the support of local businesses, international tourism boards, and the Nepal government, the airport aims to solidify its role as a major gateway for tourists visiting Lumbini and the wider region. The success of this plan would not only benefit the airport but also help boost the broader tourism industry in Nepal, which has long been an important pillar of the country’s economy.

Bhairahawa Airport is set to boost international flight traffic and tourism with a new plan focused on establishing sustainable connectivity between Thailand and Nepal. This initiative aims to increase foreign tourist arrivals, ensuring regular international flights and long-term growth for the airport.

As the plan unfolds, attention will be paid to how effectively regional destinations are promoted and whether the increased interest from tourists translates into sustained flight operations. While Gautam Buddha International Airport has faced significant challenges since its inception, the new growth strategy represents a positive step forward in ensuring the long-term success of the airport and the development of tourism in Lumbini Province. If successful, it could pave the way for further growth in the region, turning Bhairahawa into a thriving hub for international travelers visiting Nepal.

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Greece Joins United States, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Thailand, and More as Top Global Destinations Recognized in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards for Exceptional Hospitality

Greece has earned its place alongside the United States, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Thailand, and other top global destinations in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards, recognized for its outstanding hospitality. This recognition highlights Greece’s commitment to providing exceptional service and unforgettable experiences for travelers, further cementing its reputation as a leading destination for hospitality worldwide. From its diverse regions to its iconic islands, Greece continues to impress visitors with its warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-tier accommodations, making it a standout in the global tourism scene.

Epirus has earned a prestigious spot as the ninth most hospitable destination worldwide in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards, underscoring its authentic charm, top-tier accommodations, and the warm hospitality of its residents. The region’s performance highlights the appeal of Greece’s lesser-known but equally beautiful destinations, beyond the more famous islands and cities. Alongside Epirus, other Greek destinations such as Chania, Skopelos, Karpathos, and Lasithi have also earned recognition, further reinforcing Greece’s diverse and broad appeal to travelers from across the globe.

In the 2026 edition of the Traveller Review Awards, Greece’s accommodation sector delivered outstanding results. An impressive 71,230 Greek properties received the coveted Traveller Review Award. These awards are based on more than 6.35 million verified guest reviews, and the average rating for Greek properties was an exceptional 9.3, which tied with Croatia for the highest rating worldwide. This achievement demonstrates Greece’s continued excellence in hospitality, with its accommodations consistently exceeding guest expectations. The country’s strong performance in the awards illustrates the commitment of Greek hoteliers and service providers to maintaining high standards, ensuring exceptional experiences for visitors from around the world.

Now in its 14th year, the Traveller Review Awards is one of the most influential and comprehensive recognitions in the global hospitality industry. The awards are based on over 370 million verified guest reviews collected worldwide, ensuring that only the most exceptional properties and destinations are recognized. In 2026, Booking.com honored a record 1.81 million travel partners across 221 countries and territories, including 1,817,848 accommodation providers, 1,977 car rental companies, and 137 airport transfer services. The global scope of these awards highlights the importance of guest feedback and the growing trend of travelers seeking authentic, high-quality experiences during their trips.

The Traveller Review Awards celebrate destinations and travel providers that prioritize creating welcoming, warm, and authentic experiences for their guests. In this year’s rankings, the world’s most hospitable destinations included Hidalgo, Mexico, which claimed the top position, followed by Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. Other notable destinations on the list include Navarra (Spain), Idaho (USA), Himachal Pradesh (India), Sachsen (Germany), Phang Nga (Thailand), Overijssel (Netherlands), and Chiriquí (Panama). Greece’s Epirus region was ranked among these globally celebrated destinations, cementing its status as one of the most hospitable places in the world.

Italy, known for its exceptional hospitality and world-renowned tourism offerings, continued to lead the global rankings for the ninth consecutive year. The country secured a commanding 214,666 award-winning partners, followed by France with 170,596, Spain with 152,292, Germany with 111,685, and the United Kingdom with 93,989. Greece ranked ninth in the global standings, ahead of Croatia, reflecting the country’s growing influence in global tourism. This achievement demonstrates the strong tourism infrastructure in Greece, built on the country’s longstanding commitment to providing exceptional service and experiences for its visitors.

The awards also highlight the evolving trends in the global accommodation sector, with apartments taking the lead as the most awarded accommodation type for the ninth year in a row. A total of 901,481 awards were given to apartments in 2026, followed by vacation rentals with 287,464 awards and hotels with 197,658 awards. The rise of vacation rentals and apartments reflects the increasing demand for alternative forms of accommodation that provide more personalized and authentic experiences for travelers.

While apartments continue to dominate the awards, campsites and villas experienced the strongest growth in 2026, each seeing a 15% increase in award-winning properties compared to the previous year. This increase can be attributed to the growing trend of travelers seeking unique, nature-focused experiences that allow them to connect more closely with their surroundings. Moreover, traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) experienced a 13% rise in award-winning establishments, highlighting the increasing demand for cultural and immersive travel experiences in places such as Japan.

The Traveller Review Awards not only highlight the best-performing destinations and properties but also reflect the evolving preferences of today’s travelers. In recent years, there has been a growing shift towards sustainable tourism and responsible travel, with more and more visitors seeking out destinations and accommodations that prioritize sustainability, local culture, and authentic experiences. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental and social impact, destinations like Greece are increasingly positioned to cater to these demands, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional service.

The ongoing success of Greece in the Traveller Review Awards underscores the country’s ability to attract travelers seeking exceptional experiences, from its well-known islands to its lesser-explored regions like Epirus, Skopelos, and Karpathos. Greece’s diverse range of destinations ensures that there is something for everyone, whether they seek the hustle and bustle of popular tourist hubs or the tranquility of hidden gems nestled in the countryside.

Looking ahead, Greece’s tourism industry is well-positioned to continue thriving in the coming years, with a growing emphasis on sustainable practices, authentic local experiences, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of hospitality. The country’s strong performance in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards demonstrates the effectiveness of its tourism strategies and the dedication of its service providers to creating lasting memories for visitors.

Greece has joined the United States, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Thailand, and other top destinations in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards, recognized for its exceptional hospitality and outstanding visitor experiences across its diverse regions and iconic islands.

As global travel continues to rebound in the wake of the pandemic, Greece remains a top choice for travelers seeking not only beautiful landscapes and cultural landmarks but also the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with Greek hospitality. The recognition of Epirus and other Greek destinations in the 2026 awards serves as a reminder of the country’s enduring appeal and the exceptional experiences it offers to travelers from around the world.

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