Vilnius, Lithuania.  Solo travel is continuing to gain momentum worldwide, with women now accounting for 75% of solo travellers according to the Solo Female Travel Trends Survey. Safety remains one of the most important factors when choosing a destination for 70% of women, but travelers are also increasingly seeking authentic experiences, meaningful local connections and places that are easy to explore independently.

Against this backdrop, Lithuania and the wider Baltic region are emerging as attractive options for women traveling alone. All three Baltic states consistently rank among the top 20 countries in the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index, which measures inclusion, justice and security across 181 countries.  Lithuania (16th) stands out as a safe, accessible, and traveller-friendly country for solo female travellers. Germany is ranked 21st in the same index.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has also been on top of the charts as a city with a very low crime.

“Vilnius has been ranked as one of the safest cities in Europe for a while,” says Eglė Girdzijauskaitė, Head of Communications at Go Vilnius, the official tourism and business development agency of the City of Vilnius. “It offers solo female travelers the chance to explore more freely, whether that’s wandering through our UNESCO-listed Old Town, discovering neighbourhood cafés or spending time in the city’s extensive green spaces and cultural venues.”

Beyond safety, the Solo Female Travel Trends Survey also shows that connection is a key part of the experience, while friendliness of locals also plays a role in destination choice. It found that 66% of travelers actively seek to meet locals during their trips, with Boomers and Gen Z leading this trend.

To support this, Vilnius’s Meet a Local program pairs willing visitors with residents who offer an insider experience of the city, helping them discover hidden gems and see Vilnius through local eyes. With more than 300 travelers already taking part, it has proven to be a memorable way to build authentic connections and enrich the travel experience.

Friendly people all over the town support the tourist ( Foto.Go Vilnius)

“Thank you Kristina for this informative walk. I had already spent some weeks in this culturally vibrant city when I met Kristina,” said Eva, a tourist from Germany, Meet a Local program participant, according to Go Vilnius. “She captured very well and quickly what could be of my interest and showed me some hidden gems. I appreciated her huge knowledge and profound experience when talking about history. This added to my knowledge in a pleasant and enjoyable way. Thank you very much for this informative walk in a pleasant atmosphere.”

Other findings from the Solo Female Travel Trends Survey reveal that women often pick destinations based on their overall appeal. Cultural attractions, stunning scenery, access to nature, and delicious local cuisine tend to be the biggest draws.

Solo travelers will find that Vilnius has much to offer like other more popular European capitals, such as Paris or Rome, but without the crowds. The city is recognized as one of the world’s greenest cities, only second to Oslo, and offers a growing selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, blending local traditions and contemporary cuisine, as well as a booming coffee culture. Visitors who enjoy a slower morning can sample coffee and one of many local coffee shops, such as Huracán Coffee’s Filter and Flat White coffee which won the overall category at the Global Coffee Awards.

Vilnius offers easy rail and ferry connections with other countries in the Baltic region and Scandinavia.

Thai Airways on the way from Bangkok to Frankfurt

“We continually listen to our customers through a range of satisfaction surveys and real-time feedback, helping us to prioritize investments and uphold our award-winning premium experience. PaxInsight will now allow us to gain even richer insight into customers’ experiences on this hugely important trans-Atlantic market, offering accurate benchmarking and timely, comparable data, supporting our journey to become the most loved travel company,” said Juha Jaervinen,​​​​​​Chief Customer Officer at Virgin Atlantic.

Expanding data and insights portfolio

PaxInsight is the latest addition to IATA’s data and insights portfolio that helps airlines make more informed decisions, improve operational efficiency, increase safety and identify opportunities for growth.

Condor a german airline is growing and growing (Foto: Condor)

“Data and insights are important for any airline to better understand their business and respond to changes in the market. This is particularly true when it comes to the person at the center of any airline operation: the passenger. While airlines can easily survey their own passengers, PaxInsight brings valuable insights by being able to benchmark against competitors. And with each carrier that joins the program, that value increases to the benefit of airlines and the passengers they serve,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Products & Services

“Seeing continued sustained growth in 2025 underscores the powerful role tourism plays as an economic engine for Tampa Bay,” said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “From record visitor spending to strong job creation, these results reflect not only the strength of our destination, but the collective impact of our partners, hospitality workforce, and community leaders in driving continued economic growth and opportunity across the region.” Total visitation remained relatively unchanged as Hillsborough County hosted over 28 million visitors in 2025, a modest 0.6% decline compared to 28.2 million in 2024. That dip was driven largely by a 10% drop in international visitors amid challenges presented by dynamic global economic and political conditions, particularly from Canada. However, much of that international decline was offset by growing visitation from key Latin American markets and a stable level of domestic travelers. Despite a flat number of total visitors, Hillsborough County demonstrated resilience in visitor value.

Notably, total visitor spending rose 1.2% from 2024, with per-visitor spend for day visitors increasing 1.8% to $98 per person and per-visitor spending for overnight guests rising 2.9% to $392 per person. International guests outspent domestic guests on an individual basis, with international travelers spending $934 per person, an increase of 2.9% from 2024, compared to domestic visitors spending growing 1.8% to $204. 2 Corrada noted that achieving consistent and sustained visitor numbers while seeing increased visitor spending and total economic impact required a massive team effort, something he says is the hallmark of Team Tampa Bay. “We’ve been able to mitigate the potential impact of these dynamic political and economic conditions through a coordinated three-step approach,” explained Corrada. “First, Visit Tampa Bay continues comprehensive marketing campaigns that have proven effective, campaigns that would be unsustainable without our current level of funding from bed taxes collected by our hotel industry. Second, working with the Tampa Convention Center, hoteliers, and other venues in the area, our sales team has focused on bringing meetings and conventions to the region, particularly during need periods, that have resulted in over 600,000 attendees per year. Third, the hospitality industry supports nearly 62,000 jobs in Hillsborough County, and these dedicated professionals constantly create memorable experiences for visitors whose feedback further enhances our reputation and informs our marketing efforts.” Visit Tampa Bay’s approach for 2026 has remained flexibly consistent, adhering to these core principles while

Tampa Bay ; History, good food and many to do.

The event, which was organised through a strategic partnership between E&C Productions, TTG Events, and supported by the Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, aims to unite buyers and exhibitors from Indonesia and other international markets, creating a vibrant platform for industry growth and business exchange.

The inaugural edition is expected to host 250 buyers and 200 sellers, offering a vibrant marketplace where destinations, venue hotels, and event solution providers can connect with key decision-makers. The event is designed to deliver meaningful business opportunities while reinforcing Indonesia’s growing appeal as a competitive MICE destination.

With strong international air connectivity and its position as the capital city, Jakarta provides an accessible and strategic location for global and regional delegates. The event will be held at the Jakarta International Convention Center, located approximately 45 minutes from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, ensuring ease of travel for participants.

Held alongside IBEM, SEABEF will serve as a regional platform for knowledge sharing and industry dialogue, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and sssociations to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of business events in Southeast Asia. The co-location of both platforms creates a comprehensive experience—combining thought leadership with commercial engagement under one umbrella.

A curated post-show island-hopping tour will be organised for hosted buyer and media to explore some of Indonesia’s unique coastal attractions including Onrust Island and Macan Island. Hosted by Dinas Pariwisata dan Kreatif Ekonomi DKI (Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Office), the tour offers an immersive experience of the destination’s rich heritage and natural beauty, providing delegates with first-hand insights into Jakarta’s diverse tourism offerings beyond the city.

By integrating high-level discussions with business matching opportunities, IBEM and SEABEF together offer a compelling value proposition for delegates, driving stronger return on investment through both insights and tangible business outcomes.

#IBEM2026 #IndonesiaMICE

About IBEM
Indonesia Business Event Mart (IBEM) is a dynamic new MICE marketplace designed to connect global and regional industry players with Indonesia’s fast-growing business event sector. Organised in collaboration with E&C Productions, TTG Events, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism of Republic of Indonesia.
IBEM brings together international buyers, and local and regional sellers on a focused platform for business matching, networking, and destination showcase. Held in Jakarta, IBEM aims to position Indonesia as a competitive and emerging hub for business events in Southeast Asia.

Copyright: IBEM Indonesia // TTG Asia

What Is a Cryptocurrency Exchange?
A cryptocurrency exchange is a platform that allows users to trade digital assets. It connects buyers and sellers and supports both crypto‑to‑crypto swaps and conversions into fiat currencies such as USD or EUR.

There are two main types of exchanges:
Centralized Exchanges (CEX)

• Operated by companies
• Often support fiat deposits
• Examples: Binance, Coinbase

The National Bank of the Ukraine in Kiev

Decentralized Exchanges (DEX)

• Operate on peer‑to‑peer blockchain networks
• Use smart contracts to execute trades
• Examples: Uniswap, PancakeSwap

Both models enable fast and secure transactions.
Why Are BTC and ETH the Most Traded Cryptocurrencies?
Bitcoin (BTC) — Digital Store of Value

• Launched in 2009
• Fixed supply of 21 million coins
• Often compared to “digital gold”
• Highly liquid and easy to trade
• Popular among long‑term investors

Reliable platforms such as BTC Exchange offer fast and secure transfers, making BTC trading even more convenient.
Ethereum (ETH) — The Smart Contract Powerhouse

• Introduced in 2015 with advanced blockchain capabilities
• Supports decentralized applications (DApps) and smart contracts
• Powers major DeFi and NFT ecosystems
• Strong daily trading volume ensures liquidity

Services like ETH Exchange allow both beginners and experienced users to swap ETH effortlessly.
How to Swap BTC and ETH Step by Step
Swapping cryptocurrencies through an exchange platform is straightforward:

1. Select the currencies you want to swap (e.g., BTC → ETH)
2. Enter the amount
3. Provide your wallet address
4. The platform finds the best available market rate
5. The exchanged coins are sent directly to your wallet

No complicated registration, no waiting for order matching.
Advantages of Using a Cryptocurrency Exchange
A reliable exchange offers several benefits:

• High liquidity — ensures smooth trading
• Wide selection — access to hundreds of coins
• Strong security — encryption and protection mechanisms
• Fast processing — most transactions complete within minutes
• 24/7 availability — global, uninterrupted operation

Key Factors to Check Before Exchanging BTC or ETH
Before making a trade, consider:

• Platform reputation and user reviews
• Transparent fee structure
• Support for BTC, ETH, and major altcoins
• Execution speed during peak market activity

The Role of Exchanges in Crypto Market Development
Exchanges play a crucial role in the growth of the crypto ecosystem:

• Provide easy access for new users
• Maintain market liquidity and activity
• Help new projects gain visibility through listings
• Bridge traditional finance and blockchain technology

Without exchanges, BTC and ETH would not have reached their current scale.
Risks to Be Aware Of
Crypto trading also involves risks:

• Volatility — prices can change rapidly
• Security threats — centralized platforms may face attacks
• Regulatory differences — rules vary by country

Choosing a reputable platform and securing your assets can significantly reduce these risks.

Happy Happy Owner of the Golden Bitcoin

Conclusion
links:

https://swapspace.co/zh/exchange/btc – with anchor 兑换 BTC

https://swapspace.co/zh/exchange/eth – with anchor 兑换 ETH

Cryptocurrency exchanges play a vital role in today’s digital economy. They make trading assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum simple, efficient, and accessible. Bitcoin remains the leading store‑of‑value asset, while Ethereum powers applications and smart contracts. Thanks to their high liquidity, both assets are among the most actively traded worldwide.

With platforms such as BTC Exchange and ETH Exchange, users can complete swaps and transfers quickly, safely, and conveniently.

]]> https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/05/english-good-to-know-3/feed/ 0 https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-thailand%e2%80%99s-tourism-crisis-a-downturn-the-government-can-no-longer-gloss-over/ https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-thailand%e2%80%99s-tourism-crisis-a-downturn-the-government-can-no-longer-gloss-over/#comments Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:45:47 +0000 Joachim Fischer https://tourism-insider.com/?p=65662 Thailand’s tourism industry is sliding deeper into crisis — and the government’s optimistic messaging can no longer hide the reality. The war in the Middle East has triggered a sharp drop in arrivals, but the conflict merely exposes structural weaknesses that Bangkok has ignored for years. In March, Thailand recorded 2.77 million visitors — a brutal 15% decline from the previous month. Even Songkran, traditionally one of the strongest tourism periods of the year, failed to revive demand. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators report weak bookings, falling spending, and a growing sense of uncertainty.

Officials now warn that up to three million tourists may be lost in 2026 if the conflict continues. Industry insiders counter that the real problem is not the war — it is Thailand’s lack of strategy.
A Fragile Industry Exposed by Global Shocks
The Middle East conflict has disrupted long‑haul travel, but Thailand’s vulnerability is self‑inflicted. The country has become dangerously dependent on a handful of markets, especially China, while failing to diversify or modernize its tourism offering.

Key weaknesses include:

• Unstable and confusing visa policies
• High travel costs due to limited flight capacity
• Persistent safety concerns damaging Thailand’s reputation
• Rising prices that erode the “value‑for‑money” appeal
• A lack of innovation, leaving Thailand behind regional competitors

Vietnam, Malaysia, and Japan have expanded routes, simplified visas, and aggressively marketed new tourism products. Thailand has not kept pace.

Bangkok around the clock activity

Songkran’s Weak Numbers Are a Warning Signal

Songkran should have been a turning point. Instead, it confirmed the downward trend. Hotels in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai reported lower occupancy, shorter stays, and weaker spending. Tour operators say travelers increasingly choose cheaper, better‑connected destinations.

The message is clear: Thailand is losing its competitive edge.

What Thailand Must Do — Now

Industry experts agree that Thailand needs structural reforms, not cosmetic campaigns.

1. End the visa chaos

Travelers and tour operators need stability, not monthly policy changes.

2. Expand flight capacity

Without more routes and competitive fares, Thailand will continue to lose visitors to better‑connected destinations.

3. Restore safety and infrastructure

Tourists expect clean beaches, reliable transport, and visible safety measures — not excuses.

4. Diversify tourism products

Thailand must move beyond beaches and nightlife. Wellness, medical tourism, culture, gastronomy, and eco‑tourism remain underdeveloped.

5. Protect the environment — for real

Overcrowding and degradation damage Thailand’s global image. Sustainability must become policy, not PR.

6. Modernize marketing

Competitors run data‑driven campaigns. Thailand still relies on outdated clichés.

]]> https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-thailand%e2%80%99s-tourism-crisis-a-downturn-the-government-can-no-longer-gloss-over/feed/ 0 https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-new-fair-old-problems/ https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-new-fair-old-problems/#comments Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:12:43 +0000 Joachim Fischer https://tourism-insider.com/?p=65655 Why IBTM Bangkok 2027 Raises More Questions Than Answers. Bangkok is getting a new trade show. In June 2027, the IBTM Bangkok is scheduled to launch – an ambitious attempt to further position the Thai capital as a leading MICE hub in Asia. While the organizers speak of a “new chapter,” many industry observers wonder whether this event truly brings innovation or simply adds another date to an already overcrowded exhibition calendar.

A Late Entry into an Oversaturated Market
The IBTM brand is undeniably strong. Barcelona and Cape Town have demonstrated the global potential of the format. But Bangkok is not a blank slate. For years, the ITCMA (Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings Asia) in September has dominated the regional MICE landscape. It is deeply rooted in the Asian community, backed by long‑standing exhibitor relationships and a consistently strong hosted‑buyer program.

IBTM, by contrast, enters the market without an established regional community, without historical ties – and with a date that falls squarely within Asia’s already dense trade‑show season. Industry insiders quietly describe the move as “a risky balancing act between global ambition and regional reality.”

The best streetfood you can eat in the streets of Bangkok

The Timing: Strategic Advantage or Miscalculation
June in Bangkok means rainy season – and low season. Hotels may be cheaper, but international decision‑makers traditionally avoid Southeast Asia during this period. ITCMA in September benefits from the start of the high season, better flight connectivity, and a significantly stronger international presence in the city.

IBTM argues that the June date offers “greater visibility” and “less competition.” Critics see the opposite: A new player entering a time slot the industry avoids for good reasons. Positioning: Still No Clear USP

While ITCMA has long focused on Asia‑Pacific expertise, regional destination showcases, and targeted buyer‑seller matching, IBTM Bangkok’s positioning remains vague. Announcements speak of “global standards” and “fresh impulses,” but concrete program details, innovation themes, or strategic partnerships have yet to be communicated.

Some Thai industry representatives welcome the additional international attention, but others warn of cannibalization: Two major MICE shows in the same city, just three months apart, could split budgets, buyer capacity, and media attention.

Are the two exhibition so powerful as the National Elefants ? Here a picture from the Elephant sanctuary in Samui

Bangkok as the Winner – or the Stage for Oversupply

For the city itself, the development is double‑edged. More events mean more visitors, more hotel nights, more global visibility. But if two formats compete for the same exhibitors and the same hosted buyers, neither may reach its full potential.

ITCMA holds the advantage of tradition, networks, and regional credibility. IBTM brings a powerful global brand – but must prove it is more than an ambitious spin‑off.

Conclusion: A Bold Move – Perhaps Too Bold
IBTM Bangkok 2027 is an exciting project, but one with significant risks. Without clear differentiation, without a convincing strategic concept, and with a challenging date, the fair could quickly become an expensive experiment.

For now, ITCMA remains the dominant force. IBTM must demonstrate that it is not just another name on the calendar – but a format that genuinely enriches Bangkok’s MICE landscape.

]]> https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-new-fair-old-problems/feed/ 0 https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-sri-lanka-tourism-alliance-showcases-year-round-travel-and-the-pekoe-trail-in-love-sri-lanka-always-campaign/ https://tourism-insider.com/en/2026/04/english-sri-lanka-tourism-alliance-showcases-year-round-travel-and-the-pekoe-trail-in-love-sri-lanka-always-campaign/#comments Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:34:19 +0000 Editor's Office https://tourism-insider.com/?p=65638 The Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance is placing renewed emphasis on positioning Sri Lanka as a truly year-round destination, highlighting the island’s remarkable diversity of experiences beyond traditional peak travel periods—particularly from May through November. This season reveals a rich and immersive side of the island, from lush green hill country to sun-drenched east coast beaches, vibrant cultural festivals, and unique wildlife encounters.

Sri Lanka’s seasonal contrast is one of its greatest strengths. While the southwest embraces its verdant green season, the east coast reaches its peak, offering calm seas, golden beaches, and some of the region’s best surf conditions.

This period is also marked by some of the island’s most significant cultural and natural events. In May, Vesak illuminates towns and cities across the country, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. June follows with Poson, commemorating the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, centred around the sacred city of Anuradhapura.

The Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka

July and August bring the grandeur of the Kandy Esala Perahera—an extraordinary procession of dancers, drummers, and ceremonial pageantry in the historic hill capital of Kandy. These months also coincide with the renowned wildlife spectacle at Minneriya National Park, where hundreds of elephants gather around the reservoir in one of Asia’s largest elephant congregations.

From July through September, the dry zone forests enter the distinctive Palu season, when fruiting Palu trees attract abundant wildlife, creating exceptional safari opportunities. At the same time, the east coast—from Arugam Bay to Trincomalee—offers world-class surf breaks, whale watching, and pristine coastal experiences.

Adding to the island’s evolving tourism landscape is the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s newest long-distance walking route. Winding through tea estates, local villages, and mist-covered highlands, the trail offers an immersive way to experience the country’s heritage and natural beauty. With trained local guides, including a growing number of female guides, the Pekoe Trail enhances accessibility and provides a safe, enriching experience for a wide range of travellers, including solo explorers.

“Sri Lanka is not defined by a single season; it is a destination that reveals something new throughout the year,” said Malik Fernando of the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance. “This period offers travellers the opportunity to experience cultural festivals, wildlife spectacles, and diverse landscapes beyond the traditional peak season—creating journeys that are uniquely Sri Lankan.”

By championing year-round travel and new experiences such as the Pekoe Trail, the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance continues to promote a more sustainable and inclusive tourism model, benefiting communities across the island while inviting travellers to discover Sri Lanka in all its richness, at any time of year.

Always in Season. Love Sri Lanka, Always. Dinushka Chandrasena

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