Young talents accelerate Sustainable Tourism Innovation in new TUI Care Foundation initiative in Spain,Two-year initiative brings together universities, innovation centres and tourism businesses to develop solutions for Spain’s tourism challenges. 200 young entrepreneurs will benefit from direct technical assistance, and nine early-stage startups will be supported in their acceleration journey. The project collaborates with Wayra Telefonica and encompasses 15 collaborative events, including a hackathon for university students and young innovators, and supports 25 jobs.

Spain’s tourism sector stands at a decisive turning point. In 2025 the country welcomed a record 96.8 million international visitors, confirming its position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, yet in some densely populated areas this success comes with mounting pressure on people and places.  Around 80% of travellers worldwide visit just 10% of destinations, and in Spain that concentration leaves some hotspots facing significant population increases during peak season, driving up housing costs, straining infrastructure and fuelling local frustration. Climate change intensifies these pressures through rising temperatures, water scarcity and growing waste management challenges, whilst many tourism businesses still lag behind in digital adoption that could make operations more competitive and sustainable.  At the same time, powerful new technologies – from data analytics and digital platforms to AI-driven tools – create fresh opportunities to spread visitor flows across seasons, unlock lesser-known destinations and diversify tourism products that benefit more communities.

TUI-Futureshapers Spain of the teams of participants of the programme scaled

In response to this complex landscape, the TUI Care Foundation, in partnership with development agency Target 8.9 and in collaboration with Wayra Telefonica, has launched TUI Futureshapers Spain, a two-year acceleration programme that empowers young entrepreneurs and startups to design green and digital solutions for the tourism sector. By connecting universities, innovation centres and tourism companies, the initiative aims to turn Spain’s tourism innovation ecosystem into a driver of long-term prosperity that uses technology to tackle de-seasonalisation, decentralisation, decongestion and diversification, while protecting communities and the environment.

The project works through three complementary pathways that support innovation, from first idea to market-ready solution.  The Ignite Path focuses on young entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of development, helping them move from concept to prototype.  TUI Futureshapers Spain will team up with local universities and innovation hubs to build a network of talent tackling clearly defined tourism challenges linked to overtourism, climate resilience and the digital transition.  Through six practical training modules, 100 young participants will strengthen their digital skills and learn to use vertical technologies to design green and digital solutions for Spain’s tourism sector. This path culminates in a two-day tourism hackathon where around 50 young entrepreneurs will work intensively with mentors to develop minimum viable products, with at least 8 prototypes expected.

TUI-Futureshapers-Spain participants workshoping ideas-caled

The Grow Path focuses on early-stage startups that already show product–market fit and are ready to embed their solutions in the tourism value chain. At least nine startups will receive personalised advisory support during this phase to refine their business models with a strong focus on environmental and social sustainability, as well as digital innovation.  Dedicated networking activities and market-linkage events will connect these ventures with potential partners, clients and investors from across the tourism ecosystem. During a final demo day, participants will pitch their solutions to key stakeholders, and five startups will gain access to a curated network for solution validation, while three finalists will be selected to move into the Scale Path.

The Scale Path concentrates on technology adoption, piloting and investment readiness for the most mature ventures. TUI Futureshapers Spain will facilitate partnerships with tourism stakeholders willing to pilot innovative solutions, enabling real-world testing in destinations and businesses.  Each of the three selected startups will receive tailored technical assistance and support to strengthen their investment readiness, including customised roadmaps that outline how to scale their solutions and deepen impact.  By the end of the programme, at least one startup is expected to be well positioned to access venture capital or other investment mechanisms and to explore pilot opportunities for its solution with committed tourism partners, opening the door to full implementation as conditions allow.

Overall, the project will directly support 200 people through technical assistance, create or maintain 25 jobs and organise 15 events that encourage collaboration across Spain’s tourism innovation ecosystem.  By nurturing ideas at every stage – from early concept to scalable solution – TUI Futureshapers Spain promotes a tourism model that harnesses digital tools and green innovation to relieve pressure on destinations, strengthen local economies and build resilience.

This project is part of the global TUI Futureshapers Programme, which empowers passionate people in tourism destinations who are committed to turning social and environmental challenges into entrepreneurial opportunities. The programme is active in destinations around the world, including Cape Verde, Jamaica, Morocco, Namibia, Greece, Tunisia, Egypt, Albania, Portugal, Sweden, UK, Colombia, Zanzibar, Dominican Republic and Laos.

Zui Futureshappers winning team of the Hackathon event ( Foto 3: Tui Care)

About the TUI Care Foundation

Building on the potential of tourism as a force for good, the TUI Care Foundation supports and initiates projects which create new opportunities and contribute to thriving communities in tourism destinations all over the world. Connecting holidaymakers to good causes, it supports education and training opportunities for young people; drives the protection of natural habitats and the marine environment; and helps local communities to thrive sustainably and benefit from tourism. The TUI Care Foundation builds on strong partnerships with local and international organisations to create meaningful and long-lasting impact. The independent charitable organisation was founded by TUI, one of the world’s leading tourism businesses, and is based in the Netherlands.

About Target 8.9

Target 8.9 is a global development agency initiated by TUI Care Foundation. It is dedicated to mobilising both non-financial and financial resources to create meaningful and sustainable impacts in local tourism destinations, aligned with target 8.9 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This specific objective within the SDGs aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all, with an emphasis on the tourism sector and highlighting local culture and products. Target 8.9’s primary focus is on fostering inclusive economic opportunities and social development, with a strong emphasis on conservation and landscape restoration.

With this new connection, Condor is expanding its city network to include one of Europe’s most important metropolitan hubs, thereby strategically strengthening its presence in the European market. To mark the inaugural flight from London Gatwick, departing passengers on the fully booked service were welcomed with a small reception and gifts before the flight departed punctually for Frankfurt am Main.

David Carlisle, Director Network and Partnerships at Condor, said: “Today’s inaugural flight to London Gatwick marks another important milestone in the expansion of our European route network. London is one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, both for business travellers and short city breaks. We are delighted to offer our guests up to three daily frequencies, providing maximum flexibility as well as convenient access to our long-haul network to Africa and Asia.”

Jonny Macneal, Head of Aviation Development at London Gatwick, added: “We are delighted to welcome Condor to London Gatwick and to offer our passengers even greater choice with this new, frequently operated service to Frankfurt. Whether travelling for business, leisure or to visit friends and family, the route provides excellent flexibility and connectivity. Condor’s arrival marks another important milestone during a period of significant growth for the airport.”

Condor Inaugural Crew at London Gatwixk

London is one of Europe’s leading economic and financial centres and also one of the most popular destinations for city travel. The new connection offers business travellers excellent access to the Greater London area as well as flexible options for day trips. Leisure travellers benefit from convenient flight times for weekend getaways.

In addition to the launch of London Gatwick, Condor continues to expand its network. From May, Barcelona, Budapest and Venice will be added as new destinations, bringing the total number of city destinations in the Condor network to 13. With these additions, Condor is further strengthening its presence in high growth markets and continuing to expand its European route network. Flights can be booked online at www.condor.com, via telephone or through travel agencies.

“We are delighted to have concluded a new multi‑year agreement with Messe Frankfurt for the period from 2026 to 2030,” says Mark Mulligan, IMEX’s Director of Operations. “The IMEX story began here in Frankfurt more than 20 years ago with our very first show. In close collaboration with the Messe Frankfurt team and other partners in the city, we have built and developed IMEX into a pioneering, innovative, and sustainable catalyst for the global events industry.”

Michael Biwer, Vice President Guest Events at Messe Frankfurt, adds: “Our long-standing cooperation with IMEX shows what is possible through partnership. Here in Frankfurt, we create an environment that offers international event organizers the best conditions for exchange, development, and sustainable growth.”

IMEX has been held annually at the Frankfurt exhibition grounds since 2003. At IMEX 2025, the event welcomed 13,000 international visitors to Frankfurt, including more than 4,000 buyers for meetings and events, and 2,900 exhibitors from around the world. Messe Frankfurt itself plays a distinctive dual role at IMEX — both as the host venue and as an exhibitor.

This year, IMEX will take place from 19 to 21 May in Halls 8 and 9. In line with Frankfurt am Main being named World Design Capital 2026, the central IMEX talking point will be “Design Matters.” Exhibitors and trade visitors from around the world can look forward to inspiring ideas, networking opportunities, and a wide range of educational sessions.

Orient Express Mahanakhon in Bangkok

In 2026, the event proudly marks 34 years of championing international MICE business within Asia-Pacific, consistently delivering opportunities for global exhibitors and buyers to engage, network, and build strategic partnerships that fuel the growth of the sector. Simultaneously, the event celebrates 29 years of advancing Corporate Travel and Entertainment (T&E) management best practices, providing a critical platform for Asia-Pacific’s travel professionals to exchange insights, address industry challenges, and stay at the forefront of travel innovation.

Event Dates
2026: 22 – 24 September
2027: 21 – 23 September
2028: 19 – 21 September
2029: 25 – 27 September
2030: 24 – 26 September

Colombia’s tourism sector is at a transformative juncture, with post-conflict regions and rural communities offering significant potential for inclusive tourism development. However, whilst tourism contributes substantially to the national economy, many communities still face challenges in accessing economic opportunities, Local entrepreneurs lack the resources, skills, and networks needed to participate effectively in tourism growth. Tourism regions like Atlantico, with rich culinary traditions, face issues in terms of sustainable food production, food accessibility and affordability.

TUI Field to Fork Columbia project activity scaled

To address these interconnected challenges, the TUI Care Foundation is launching two new initiatives in Colombia.

TUI Futureshapers Colombia, implemented in partnership with V Social Foundation, will strengthen the tourism entrepreneurial ecosystem in four post-conflict areas. Community organisations in these areas have emerged to create productive strategies that help them not have to migrate in search for better conditions.

The two-year initiative aims to equip community-based tourism organisations in post-conflict areas with the experience, tools, and resources necessary to consolidate their initiatives, aligning them with the tourism and peace strategy for sustainable post-conflict development. The project focuses on five community organisations in the departments of Meta, Caquetá, Cundinamarca, and Bolívar, where tourism is already an established economic alternative, generating resources for these post-conflict areas.

Through creation labs, tailored business model development, specialised mentoring, and strategic partnerships with tourism agencies, the programme will strengthen the capacities of 50 tourism entrepreneurs in operations, governance, leadership, and management. The project includes an awareness and safety component for conflict-affected areas, whilst building organisational capacity for local, national, and international partnerships, including participation in tourism fairs to showcase ventures to broader markets. A series of ‘Business Interaction Summits‘ will create collaborative business and communication strategies, not only for the five participating organisations but across the wider Tourism & Peace Network of 15 organisations, with leaders receiving specialised training to build collective strategies for their ventures’ future. To ensure replicable results and to generate knowledge on the relationship between tourism and peace in Colombia, the project also includes research to create a model methodology for tourism and peace interventions.

TUI Futureshapers Columbia beneficiaries

TUI Field to Fork Colombia, implemented in partnership with Fondazione Slow Food, will promote sustainable agriculture and eco-gastronomic tourism in the Atlántico department. The two-year initiative addresses the intersection of food autonomy, cultural heritage, and tourism development in the area. The project focuses on the rural areas around the city of Barranquilla, where communities possess rich culinary traditions, based on the agrobiodiversity of the territory, that remain largely untapped for tourism. The initiative will train 80 farmers in agroecological practices and sustainable production methods, food sovereignty, community tourism, and marketing. It will also establish one Earth Market to provide direct market access for local producers. Additionally, 75 high school graduates will be trained as agrifood agents with a focus on tourism, equipping them with skills to create compelling eco-gastronomic tourism experiences. The project will also co-design a tourist route showcasing the region’s unique food heritage, connecting visitors with authentic agricultural experiences, traditional food preparation, and cultural celebrations.

By mapping agrobiodiversity, strengthening sustainable farming practices, and developing tourism experiences grounded in local food culture, the project creates a synergistic model where tourism supports agricultural sustainability and food sovereignty, whilst providing meaningful visitor experiences incorporating local cultural identity.

These initiatives are part of TUI Care Foundation’s global TUI Futureshapers and TUI Field to Fork programmes, which operate across multiple countries to create sustainable livelihoods and protect natural resources in tourism destinations worldwide.

TUI Futureshapers Columbia bebeficiiaries

About the TUI Care Foundation
Building on the potential of tourism as a force for good, the TUI Care Foundation supports and initiates projects which create new opportunities and contribute to thriving communities in tourism destinations all over the world. Connecting holidaymakers to good causes, it supports education and training opportunities for young people; drives the protection of natural habitats and the marine environment; and helps local communities to thrive sustainably and benefit from tourism. The TUI Care Foundation builds on strong partnerships with local and international organisations to create meaningful and long-lasting impact. The independent charitable organisation was founded by TUI, one of the world’s leading tourism businesses, and is based in the Netherlands.

About V Social Foundation
The V Social Foundation is a non-profit organisation that supports the development of local community organisations in tourism destinations. Its purpose is to contribute to cultural tolerance and international understanding, improving living conditions in various regions worldwide, and providing solidarity support to local people while respecting their cultural values. The goal the foundation pursues, together with local partner organisations, is to use tourism as a tool for income diversification and to strengthen the territorial and financial autonomy of their communities. The projects supported promote cultural preservation, nature conservation, gender equality, and youth training.

Group of TUI Futureshapers Columbia ( Foto:TUI 4)

About Fondazione Slow Food
Slow Food is a global network of local communities, aiming to prevent the disappearance of local food cultures and traditions and counteract the rise of fast-food culture by advocating for good, clean, and fair food for all. The network is made up of chefs, educators, youth, activists, farmers, fishers, members, consumers and academics, all woven together in different ways. Slow Food’s approach assumes that to avoid environmental collapse and climate change collapse, we need a paradigm shift away from the prevailing industrial food system to diversified sustainable food systems based on the right to food for everyone.

Against this background, the TAT is further developing its strategic orientation. The goal is not only to increase the number of visitors but also to strengthen the economic and social benefits of tourism. To this end, Thailand is increasingly focusing on high-quality offers, longer stays, and travel forms that more strongly involve local communities. For 2026, the country aims for total tourism-related revenues of around 81 billion euros.

Bangkok has also a lot of Toplocations

The central motto is the campaign “Healing is the New Luxury.” It reflects a change in travel behavior: luxury is increasingly defined less by exclusivity and more by time, tranquility, and personal well-being. Thailand positions itself as a destination for experiences that combine relaxation, nature, and culture. Such offers can be found in many regions of the country. In northern Thailand, nature stays, yoga, and meditation offerings are the focus, while coastal regions such as Trat or Phang-nga combine quiet beaches with wellness and regional cuisine. At the same time, Thailand is further expanding its event profile. Festivals, cultural events, and congresses are intended to help distribute travel throughout the year and attract new target groups. Sustainability also remains a central component of tourism development, for example through programs for regenerative destinations and climate-conscious travel. Thailand remains particularly relevant for European markets: more than 55 percent of European guests visit the country for the first time, indicating the destination’s ongoing attractiveness.

Many Tourists like to support the Elephant Hospital in La,pang

About the Tourism Authority of Thailand Thailand is one of the most popular long-haul destinations for Germans. Magnificent temple complexes, spectacular dream beaches, and exotic nature make the Southeast Asian country a fascinating travel destination. Its unique welcoming culture is considered, alongside the scenic beauty and culinary diversity, to be probably Thailand’s strongest hallmark and causes many guests to return multiple times a year. In 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand celebrated its 65th anniversary and looked back on over six decades of Thai hospitality. The contact for German-speaking markets is the office of the Thai Tourism Authority based in Frankfurt.

There are many culture festivals with and for the people

This long-standing partnership underscores the importance of ITB Berlin as a global platform and highlights the Maldives’ prominent role in the international travel industry. In 2027, we look forward to showcasing the Maldives’ extraordinary beauty and diversity, while also demonstrating how tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand,” explained Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin. Four people standing behind a high table, the two people in the middle smiling and holding hands for the camera. Abdulla Ghiyas (Chairperson, Visit Maldives Corporation), Ibrahim Shiuree (CEO and Managing Director, Visit Maldives), Deborah Rothe (Director of ITB Berlin), Dr Mario Tobias (CEO of Messe Berlin), David Ruetz (Senior Vice President of Messe Berlin) (from left to right) A Global Stage for an Exceptional Destination With more than 1,000 islands, turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, the Maldives rank among the most iconic long-haul destinations worldwide. The country stands for exclusive resort experiences, authentic local island tourism and warm hospitality.

Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, dinning with romance

As Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, the Maldives will present the full diversity of its tourism offering: from luxury resorts and boutique properties to diving experiences, water sports, wellness retreats and cultural encounters. Sustainability remains an integral part of the country’s tourism strategy, with numerous initiatives dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems and supporting local communities. “ITB Berlin provides us with the ideal platform to showcase the unique experiences our islands offer to travelers from around the world. We look forward to welcoming the global tourism industry in Berlin and highlighting the diversity, quality and hospitality that define the Maldives as a destination,” said Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives. Just a few weeks earlier, the Maldivian President visited Berlin and was received by the German Federal President in Berlin. The historic visit emphasized the strategic importance of the island nation for Germany and the international community. Visit Maldives Year 2027: Showcasing the Islands to the World

Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort : The Islands bringing the special feeling next year to Berlin

The year 2027 has been officially designated “Visit Maldives Year”, a landmark national tourism initiative aimed at highlighting the Maldives’ unique appeal on the global stage. Announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the campaign emphasizes the country’s commitment to sustainable growth, international collaboration, and the continued development of its tourism sector as a key driver of the economy. Through a series of global marketing efforts, including participation in major travel events, roadshows, and targeted digital campaigns, “Visit Maldives Year” will showcase the islands’ natural beauty, cultural richness, and world-class hospitality to travellers and partners worldwide, reinforcing the Maldives’ position as a leading long-haul destination. Strong Presence at ITB Berlin 2027 As Host Country, the Maldives will host the official opening gala on 15 March 2027 at the ITB Berlin venue and present a vibrant program throughout the show from 16 to 18 March 2027. Trade visitors can expect an impressive national stand, cultural performances, networking events and press activities designed to position the Maldives prominently within the international tourism industry.

By taking on the Host Country role, the Maldives underline their long-standing engagement with ITB Berlin and reaffirm the importance of the German and European markets. ITB Berlin 2027 will offer the perfect setting to further strengthen partnerships, inspire new travel demand and place the Maldives firmly in the spotlight of the global travel community. Online accreditation for press representatives and bloggers/creators You can register online here now. Please note the accreditation guidelines. After your application has been processed and approved you will receive an email with a PDF containing your accreditation, press badge and a personal QR code. Please display this QR code at the entrance. Your ticket is non-transferable. You can register and obtain accreditation online around the clock for the entire duration of the event. About ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention and ITB 360° ITB Berlin 2026 will take place from Tuesday, 3 to Thursday, 5 March as a B2B event. Since 1966, ITB Berlin has been the leading trade show for the global travel industry. In 2026, it will celebrate its 60th anniversary under the motto “Discover the stories behind 60 years of legacy.”

Westin Maledives is supporting Maldives Tourism on the way to ITB

At the same time, the ITB Berlin Convention will take place under the theme “Leading Tourism into Balance,” bringing together 400 top speakers from business, science and politics on four stages and across 17 thematic tracks to explore the key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the industry. At ITB Berlin 2025, 5,800 exhibitors from more than 170 countries and territories displayed their products and services to almost 100,000 visitors. With ITB 360°, the 365-day global innovation hub that is ITB Berlin now offers the worldwide tourism community year-round insights in the shape of specialist articles, podcasts and other innovative formats. Additional information is available at www.itb.com and from the ITB News & Insights & Social M

Airliners from all over the world meet in Puerto Rico

Routes Americas 2027 is expected to draw several thousand industry professionals, generating significant economic impact for the hospitality, gastronomy, and MICE sectors. Puerto Rico aims to use the platform to secure additional air services and to showcase the destination as an innovative, resilient, and fast‑growing market.

Global Travel Resources Gather, Cooperation Opportunities Within Reach
Zo date, numerous tourism boards from destination countries/regions as well as tourism resource suppliers/service providers have confirmed their participation, including Belarus, Tunisia, Uganda, South Africa, Madagascar, Uzbekistan, Belgrade and Ionian Islands (Greece)etc. More notably, as a leading outbound tour operator in China, HCG Travel Group will also make a grand appearance at COITM 2026 to explore new paths for cultural and tourism cooperation with global partners.

Hainan, the chinese Hawaii called is the sunny Vacation part of China

Furthermore, these destinations including Nepal, Morocco, Egypt, Russia, Tanzania, Ghana, Bangladesh, Astana and Cuba are planning to exhibit.

COITM is always committed to building a precise connection platform between overseas tourism resource suppliers and Chinese outbound travel operators, as well as between Chinese tourism destination resource providers/service providers and overseas travel agencies. COITM 2026 sincerely invites tourism and culture practitioners from around the world to gather at this grand event and embark on a new journey of China outbound and inbound travel and tourism together!

CONTACT
MS QINGHUI QING (CHINA)
Project Director
Email：Qqing@converge-expo.com
WeChat ID：qingqinghui2013

MS SARAH HU (CHINA)
Sales & Operation Director
Email：Shu@converge-expo.com
WeChat ID：Sarah_jinjin