Penang Encourages Diverse Tourism Experiences

Penang is encouraging its travel trade community to diversify tourism offerings, highlighting new family-friendly experiences, including ghost-themed activities coinciding with Halloween. Meanwhile, Thailand's tourism operators are calling for a more proactive government strategy in response to rapid changes affecting the industry, emphasizing the need for regular updates to tourism policies and support for second-tier cities. In tackling overtourism, cities like Rome and Venice are implementing measures such as reservation systems and restrictions on group tours to manage visitor flow and preserve local quality of life. The Thai government is also expanding VAT refund options to stimulate foreign spending, aiming to position the country as a prime shopping destination. Additionally, Kerala's Chief Minister announced plans to develop unique tourism spots, while Odisha is exploring an adventure tourism policy to attract more visitors. These initiatives reflect a broader trend of tourism adaptation in response to changing market demands and sustainability challenges.