The festival program started each day at 10:00 AM and continued until the end of the evening concerts. Activities throughout the day created diverse experience areas for both children and parents, positioning the festival as a comprehensive and safe gathering point where families could spend quality time together.

Going beyond being just a concert event, Midterm Camp Fest introduced a multi-dimensional festival model with camping experiences, children’s theater, stand-up shows, stage performances, workshops, Color Run, wellness content, and outdoor sports.

Throughout the festival, workshops such as ceramics, chocolate making, mixology, percussion rhythm, voice-breath training, and canvas painting were held daily across all four days. In addition, wellness and movement-focused activities like yoga, meditation, stretching, zumba, and zumba kids were included in the daily program.

All workshops, sports activities, and events designed for children and families were not offered as one-time sessions, but as recurring programs available throughout all four days. This allowed participants to access the same experiences on different days and explore the festival area at their own pace.

One of the most popular areas of the festival was the outdoor sports zone. Each day, an average of 750 to 1,000 children participated in activities across 7 different courses, enjoying movement, play, and discovery-focused experiences.

In the festival’s concert lineup, Zeynep Bastık performed on stage, while ongoing daytime activities provided diverse experiences for children, parents, and young attendees. Hundreds of families also stayed in the camping area, enjoying a festival experience immersed in nature.

More than 700 people were involved in bringing Midterm Camp Fest to life. A large organizational structure—including operations, stage, security, technical teams, workshop facilitators, site management, brand experience teams, and festival staff—ensured the smooth execution of the event throughout the four days.

With the support of brands such as Chery, Burger King, Popeyes, Haribo, Hasbro, Jumbo, Sunny, Sharge, and Pupple Bubble Tea, the festival also offered rich brand experiences tailored for families and children.

The founder of the festival, H. Enes Toprak, commented on the event:

“We designed Midterm Camp Fest not just as a festival, but as a next-generation nature camping experience where families can safely, joyfully, and meaningfully spend time with their children. In Türkiye, we have created a unique concept at this scale that brings together camping, concerts, workshops, sports, wellness, stage content, and brand experiences with a focus on families and children. Reaching thousands of people and hundreds of families in our first year, and bringing this experience to life across a 240,000 square meter area, is extremely valuable for us. In the coming years, we aim to grow this experience further and build a strong festival culture where families can create unforgettable memories with their children.”

Transforming the excitement of April 23 into a comprehensive four-day experience, Midterm Camp Fest positioned itself as a unique platform where urban families connect with nature, music, play, sports, wellness, and a culture of creating together.

Midterm Camp Fest plans to continue its journey in 2027, aiming to expand these meaningful and joyful moments for families and their children.

Operating in Antalya’s Belek region, Gloria Hotels & Resorts has added another significant achievement to its international track record. Two of the group’s flagship properties, Gloria Serenity Resort and Gloria Golf Resort, have been honored with the “Customer Excellence Award 2025” presented by British Airways Holidays.

Standing out among 105,000 reviews

As part of the annual program, which analyzes independent guest feedback from around the world, approximately 105,000 reviews were evaluated this year. Only 949 hotels were selected for the award, with Gloria Serenity Resort and Gloria Golf Resort standing out thanks to their high guest satisfaction scores.
The awards are based on key criteria such as service quality, overall stay experience, and guest satisfaction.

“This award holds special value for us”

Yunus Özdemir, Vice Chairman of the Board of Özaltın Holding, commented on the achievement, emphasizing the importance of being recognized by a well-established brand through direct guest feedback. He noted that Gloria continues to enhance the guest experience through its strong infrastructure and high service standards.

Strengthening its global position

Operating in Belek since 1997, Gloria Hotels & Resorts stands out with its expansive grounds, diverse accommodation concepts, and personalized service approach.
In addition to its three five-star hotels, the group also offers a multi-dimensional tourism experience with Gloria Sports Arena—one of Europe’s leading sports complexes—further strengthening its position in the global tourism market.

The Ministry officials stated they will be redirecting their tourist market focus from the Middle East and Europe to Asia and Australia. This strategy is due to a decrease in tourists from the conflict zones and flight suspensions from those territories.

Vinsensius Jemadu, Acting Deputy for Event Development, explained that the new markets hold substantial potential. This effort is deemed crucial to maintaining the stability of the national tourism sector.

Optimizing the Domestic Market

The government also plans to boost domestic tourism through a series of events. Out of 1,000 proposed events, 125 have been selected to stimulate local tourism. Most of these are cultural events, which are a pillar of Indonesia’s tourism strength. By leveraging domestic potential, it is hoped that losses from international conflicts can be minimized. Vinsensius emphasized that domestic tourists are the backbone of the national tourism industry. This strategy is expected to address the challenges posed by the ongoing global crisis.

The initiative is a strategic partnership between Chris Henry of Majestic Hospitality and Christian Scali of LV Toscana SRL, combining development, operational and market expertise. The platform provides advisory services across acquisition, development and operations for hospitality assets including hotels, resorts, branded residences, agriturismo properties and luxury B&Bs.

The new entity is positioned as a full-service advisory group, offering support from real estate acquisition and owner representation through to development oversight and operational management. Target project types include historic villa restorations, boutique hotels, wellness resorts and luxury rental properties.

According to Scali, recent data indicates continued growth in the Italian hotel sector. “The Italian hotel continues to enjoy recent near-record investment numbers and signs of continued growth,” he said. “According to Colliers’ Hotel Market Report H1 2025 | Italy, the first two quarters of 2025 marked the highest hotel investment volumes in the country of the past five years, reaching 1.4 billion euros. The Italian hotel market remains one of the most attractive in Europe, with interest rates and inflation stabilization over recent quarters creating favorable winds for owners/investors.”

The creation of Italy Access Advisory builds on prior collaboration between the partners, including the Villa Ardore project in Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region. The 16th-century farmhouse was redeveloped from a six-bedroom B&B into a five-star, eight-suite private hotel with integrated wellness facilities.

Chris Henry noted: “While Majestic has been focused on advising international projects since its inception in 2008, this is the first international office we have launched. I have known and respected Christian for years. This joint venture brings together proven, international hospitality organizations to provide heretofore unavailable services to a growing body of interested, active investors.”

Christian Scali, Founder of LV Toscana SRL and managing shareholder of Scali Rasmussen, brings experience in cross-border transactions, regulatory compliance and market entry advisory. His background includes supporting international investors operating between the United States and Europe, as well as direct involvement in hospitality development projects in Italy.

The invitation-only event focused on collaboration, leadership development and knowledge exchange, while also recognising outstanding chapter performance through the Frank W. Berkman Best of the Best Chapter Awards.

The programme included keynote presentations, working sessions, roundtables and interactive discussions, addressing topics such as leadership development, membership engagement, storytelling and the evolving role of local chapters in the hospitality industry.

Speakers included Adam Burke, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board; Alain Hunkins, leadership strategist and author; Alexandra Kiladjian, Founder of Aesthetically Neutral; and Melissa S. Maher, Founder & CEO of Pinnacle Enterprises Group.

A central theme throughout the conference highlighted leadership focused on clarity, intention and human connection as key drivers of organisational impact. The Frank W. Berkman Best of the Best Chapter Awards, named in honour of a former HSMAI executive director, recognised chapters demonstrating strong performance in creativity, leadership and measurable outcomes.

In the Education category, winners included British Columbia (small chapter), Ontario (medium chapter) and Las Vegas (large chapter). For Special Events, awards were presented to Hawaii (small), Central Florida (medium) and Greater New York (large). In the Partnership category, British Columbia, Ontario and Arizona received recognition across small, medium and large chapters respectively.

Membership Care awards were presented to Mid-South (small), Ontario (medium) and Washington D.C. (large), while Marketing & Communication awards went to Minnesota (small), North Carolina (medium) and Arizona (large). In the Membership Growth category, Ontario secured first place, followed by Austin and Quebec.

The conference was supported by the Michael and Andrea Leven Foundation and powered by the HSMAI Foundation, with additional support from the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel and 2026 Influence Partner Ideas Collide. The event reinforced HSMAI’s focus on strengthening leadership at the local level and supporting the future development of the hospitality industry.

The video quickly went viral, raising serious concerns about food safety on one of India’s premium trains. Acting swiftly, Indian Railways terminated the contract of the caterer responsible for supplying the food. The caterer was also fined Rs 50 lakh, while IRCTC was imposed a penalty of Rs 10 lakh.

In the video shared on X, the passenger was seen holding up a cup of Amul dahi with live insects moving inside it. He also showed another cup belonging to a fellow traveller that appeared to have the same issue. He claimed that he had already eaten half of his serving before noticing anything unusual. The passenger alleged that he tried reporting the matter to the train staff and requested the manager to take action; however, no one came forward to address his complaint.

The Ministry of Railways responded, stating that strict action had been taken against the caterer and IRCTC. “The complaint regarding food quality raised by a passenger on train number 21896 (Patna-Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express) on March 15, 2026, has been taken seriously. Action taken: IRCTC has been penalised Rs 10 lakh, and the service provider has been penalised Rs 50 lakh and ordered to terminate the contract. Passenger safety and service quality remain our top priority,” the post read.

According to ANI, an Indian Railways spokesperson said that passenger safety and service quality remain top priorities. The official also emphasised that strict rules are in place to maintain high standards, particularly on premium trains such as the Vande Bharat Express.

Exit Deadline Set For April 18

According to the Ministry, the extension is valid until April 18, during which eligible visitors can complete departure formalities. Overstay fines will not be imposed if the process is finished within the permitted timeframe. Authorities described the measure as a time‑bound facilitation introduced due to circumstances that made timely travel difficult for many visitors.

Who Is Covered Under The Extension

The relief applies specifically to holders of visit visas that expired while they were inside Saudi Arabia. The provision is not linked to the original purpose of travel but is limited to visitors currently present in the Kingdom on this visa category. Those who qualify must ensure their status is corrected within the approved window to avoid immigration issues later.

Northern Europe Momentum in IGA’s Global Flight Network

The partnership with SAS marks an important milestone in IGA Istanbul Airport’s strategy to expand its airline collaborations and destination network. The initiative aims to meet the growing passenger demand between Scandinavia and Türkiye, while further reinforcing Istanbul’s position as one of the world’s leading global aviation hubs.

Server Aydın, Deputy CEO responsible for Commercial Affairs at IGA Istanbul Airport, commented:

“As IGA Istanbul Airport, we are delighted to welcome SAS, the flag carrier of Scandinavia, to Istanbul. We believe that this collaboration an important part of our sustainable growth strategy will strengthen economic and cultural ties between the Scandinavian countries and Türkiye, while boosting both commercial and tourism traffic. This strong integration with Northern Europe is a strategic step that supports Istanbul’s vision as a ‘Global Meeting Point’ and reinforces IGA Istanbul Airport’s position as a leading global hub with unmatched connectivity.”

A Bridge for Economy and Culture Between Copenhagen and Istanbul

The daily flights between Copenhagen and Istanbul will not only provide passengers with flexibility and seamless connections but also significantly contribute to increasing tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Türkiye and the Scandinavian countries.

Highlighting the importance of the agreement with IGA Istanbul Airport, Henrik Winell, Vice President Network at Scandinavian Airlines, stated:

“Aviation plays a vital role in connecting people, businesses, and societies across regions. With the launch of our new Copenhagen–Istanbul route, we are pleased to strengthen connectivity between Scandinavia and Türkiye while continuing to develop our global hub in Copenhagen. With our commitment to punctual and reliable service, we connect Scandinavia to the world and the world to Scandinavia.”

IGA Istanbul Airport remains committed to developing new routes and strategic partnerships in line with its vision of becoming a leading global hub that connects continents, markets, and people.

As the world recovers from the challenges posed by the pandemic, cities worldwide are looking for ways to bring business back and attract international events. Da Nang’s 2026 tourism stimulus programme is a well-calculated move to boost its tourism sector and solidify its position as a MICE powerhouse in Asia.

The programme, announced by Da Nang’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, outlines a series of initiatives aimed at boosting tourism and attracting global business events. It is designed to cater to the growing demand for international conferences, trade shows, and corporate incentives while showcasing Da Nang’s cultural and natural beauty. The goal is to attract not only tourists but also event planners, business travelers, and industry leaders from around the world.

Key Features of the 2026 Tourism Stimulus Programme

Da Nang’s tourism stimulus programme focuses on rebuilding and promoting the city’s key strengths: its infrastructure, cultural attractions, and reputation as a thriving economic hub. Several key initiatives have been outlined to support this transformation:

1. Infrastructure Upgrades:
   One of the main components of the stimulus is the development of modern venues, event spaces, and luxury hotels that meet international standards. These upgrades will ensure that Da Nang is ready to host major MICE events. The city’s transportation network, including the expansion of its international airport, will also play a crucial role in making Da Nang more accessible for global visitors.
2. Attractive Incentives for MICE Organizers:
   The city is offering financial incentives and subsidies to businesses and event organizers who choose this city for their events. These incentives include discounts on venue rentals, accommodation, and travel, making it an attractive destination for companies planning conferences, exhibitions, and corporate incentives.
3. Promotion of Local Culture:
   Da Nang’s charm lies not only in its modern facilities but also in its rich cultural heritage. The stimulus plan highlights the importance of local attractions, such as the Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, and Hoi An Ancient Town, which provide business travelers with the opportunity to explore the beauty and history of the region while attending events.
4. International Partnerships and Collaborations:
   As part of its strategy, Da Nang is strengthening partnerships with international tourism organizations and MICE agencies. By participating in global tourism fairs and trade shows, the city is building relationships with event planners and tour operators, ensuring that Da Nang becomes a prominent name on the international MICE map.

MICE Tourism in Da Nang: A Growing Force

The city in Vietnam announced an ambitious MICE promotion programme that might turn it into one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia for business tourism. With the government’s focus on attracting more corporate events and international conferences, Da Nang is poised to become a key player in the global MICE industry.

Vietnam, as a whole, has seen a surge in business tourism, and the city is no exception. Over the past few years, the city has hosted an increasing number of international conferences and trade shows, and the new tourism stimulus is designed to expand this momentum. By offering state-of-the-art facilities, luxurious hotels, and seamless connectivity, Da Nang is becoming a prime destination for both large-scale corporate events and incentive programs.

The city’s government has also recognized the need for green and sustainable tourism, which is now a major consideration for international business travelers. The emphasis on sustainability will make Da Nang even more appealing to companies that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Boosting the Local Economy and Job Creation

The 2026 tourism stimulus programme is expected to have a profound impact on Da Nang’s local economy. By attracting more MICE tourists, the city will not only generate significant revenue from event-related spending but also create new jobs in hospitality, transportation, event management, and other sectors. The tourism and MICE promotion will become key drivers of economic growth, especially as the city recovers from the pandemic’s economic setbacks.

The promotion of international conferences and exhibitions will also raise Da Nang’s global profile, attracting investment and encouraging more international businesses to consider the city for their regional headquarters or offices. This economic boost is expected to create a positive ripple effect, benefiting local communities and small businesses that depend on tourism.

Looking Ahead: Da Nang’s Future as a Global MICE Destination

With the 2026 tourism stimulus and MICE promotion programmes in place, the Vietnamese city is well on its way to becoming one of the leading MICE destinations in Asia. The combination of modern infrastructure, affordable luxury, and rich cultural makes the city a unique and compelling option for business travelers and event organizers.

As the city in Vietnam prepares to welcome more international events, it will continue to invest in infrastructure and sustainability, ensuring that the city remains a top choice for global business tourism. The future of Da Nang looks bright, and its position on the global stage will only continue to strengthen in the coming years.

Conclusion: A New Era for Da Nang

Da Nang’s 2026 tourism stimulus and MICE promotion programmes mark the beginning of an exciting new era for the city. With a clear focus on improving infrastructure, attracting international events, and supporting sustainable tourism, Da Nang is set to become a major player in the global MICE industry. For business travelers and event organizers, Da Nang offers everything needed for a successful and unforgettable experience.

Overseas arrivals totaled 34.3 million, a modest decline of 2.5% year-over-year, indicating relatively stronger resilience compared to nearby markets. Notably, three regions posted gains in visitor volumes. Central America led growth with a 4.7% increase to 1.69 million visitors, followed by Eastern Europe (+2.5%) and the Middle East (+2.0%), each contributing just over 1.1 million travelers.

In the meantime, hostile political statements and positions of the current Trump administration against some countries influenced negatively travel to the USA. As an example, Danish arrivals to the USA were down by 23.5% while Swiss arrivals declined by 10.7%.

Mexico retained its position as the top inbound market, delivering nearly 18 million visitors, up 6.4% from 2024. In contrast, Canada, the second-largest source market, saw a sharp 20.9% decline to 16 million visitors, weighing heavily on overall performance. By gateway, New York remained the leading port of entry with 5.8 million arrivals, followed by Miami and Los Angeles.

Outbound travel by U.S. citizens painted a more robust picture. December departures rose 3.6% year-over-year to 10.2 million, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 15%. For the full year, North America accounted for 48.6% of outbound travel, while overseas destinations captured a slightly higher 51.4% share.

Mexico dominated outbound flows with over 39.6 million trips YTD, while the Caribbean attracted 11.3 million travelers, together representing nearly half of all departures. Europe ranked as the second-largest overseas destination in December, with 1.59 million U.S. visitors, up 2.9% from the previous year, underscoring sustained transatlantic demand.