Compiled By Debanjali Rakshit
Tragic flood disrupts North Bengal; Tourism faces major setback
The catastrophic flood that affected North Bengal in October 2025 severely impacted tourism, trapping travelers and leaving a trail of property and infrastructure damage in its wake. Heavy rains launched flash floods and mudslides across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, the Dooars, and surrounding areas that shut down traffic on several roads, like NH10, for significant periods of time.
Sudden evacuations needed to happen in several tourist areas as flood waters submerged homestays, eco-resorts, and some attractions, and disrupted safaris and train services. The tracks for the renowned Toy Train in Darjeeling were buried under debris, leading to train cancellations and further adding to the gloom that has settled over the hill station. The flooding also meant that many resorts and wildlife parks across the Dooars had to close due to flooded forests and river crossings, and rescue workers used elephants and boats to reach stranded tourists.
The extent of the impact was not caused by inconveniences alone, with local authorities estimating losses to be Rs300 to 400 crores. The West Bengal tourism department has devoted itself to a program called “Rebuild & Reimagine North Bengal,” which will emphasize eco-development and flood control for a more resilient tourism future. An important lesson for travellers and the industry were reminded that sustainable tourism and respect of fragile ecosystems is more than a philosophical ideal, but is an essential basis for the future of travel in this beautiful region.
Philippines Shines at Future Hospitality Summit, Dubai
As Asia’s hospitality scene heats up, the Philippines is front and center at the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World, 2025), taking place October 27-29 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. The Country Pavilion spotlights the Philippines’ strong tourism recovery and burgeoning investment potential in the wake of their 7641 islands.
The Philippines saw a growth from 164,000 visitors in 2021 at pandemic low, to nearly 6 million visitors in 2024, and 12 million by 2028. Around 3.9 million tourists visited the Philippines beaches and cultural riches as of August 2025. The sector is estimated to contribute US$106 bn. to its economy in 2023, representing 21percent of GDP, reflecting a 13percent increase from pre-COVID performance. Manila’s luxury hotels are thriving with 78.3percent of total occupancy in Q2 and a strong average daily rate, signifying a strong demand.
The pavilion will showcase the 2026 picture view, earmarking the projects of multi-billion-dollar airport expansion programs, eco-resorts, and MICE venue developments. A combination of initiatives like “Love the Philippines,” newly constructed Tourist Rest Areas, and dive-site safety improvements will enhance the country’s appeal. Visa-free access to the Philippines for Indian passport holders from June 2025, with the anticipated launch of flights from Delhi to Manila, continues to open up a strong trail as a source market.
WITF 2025 showcases diversity and innovation
WITF 2025, The World Indonesian Tourism Fair, represented Indonesia’s ambitions on a global tourism stage as the event took place from October 10 to 12 at Jakarta’s new Nusantara International Convention Exhibition.
The anticipated event, with tourism officials and dignitaries to open the fair, welcomed a record 300 exhibitors and more than 200 invited international buyers from 40 different countries, doubling its reach beyond Indonesia and acknowledging the event’s growing stature as one of Asia’s top B2B travel events.
More than 70percent of Indonesia’s provinces were represented as WITF showcased the breadth of the archipelago, covering travel destinations from Lombok to Papua in the east, while promoting popular and less-known travel destinations. Exhibitors (hotels, airlines, tourism destination management, and tourism villages) met individually with buyers in over 3,200 pre-arranged business meetings with large buyers from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and many more travel markets. The Ministry of Tourism also sponsored a “familiarization trip” for 45 global agents to provide tropical tour agents a first-hand experience promoting the divergent styles of tourism in Indonesia.
In addition to the principal activity, the Southeast Asia Business Events Forum showcased Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable tourism infrastructure and plans to become a leading MICE destination in the region. After attending WITF 2025, participants, including travelers, event partners and industry participants, got the clear feeling that Indonesia is more committed than it has ever been to welcoming the world through innovative new ideas, increased inclusivity and an expanding international network.
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates Hispanic, Latino traditions
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities from September 15 through October 15. It is a great time to visit places that showcase rich cultural fabric.
In the United States, culture thrives in places like Miami, San Antonio, Los Angeles, and New York City, cities that are abuzz with music, dancing, and flavor. In Miami’s Little Havana, you can sip on Cubain coffee and immerse yourself in salsa beats on the streets. San Antonio’s missions and markets tell stories hundreds of years old. Los Angeles offers mariachi performances, art walks, and thriving food scenes to herald in the celebration; and in the museums and festivals of New York, you will experience a wealth of Latin influences in art and culture.
Outside of the United States, the experience becomes even richer. San Miguel de Allende is magical with its colonial charm and artisan crafts, while Cartagena offers a combination of Caribbean color and fortified history. San Juan can be found walking the cobblestoned streets and melding Spanish tradition with modern Puerto Rican flair. And Buenos Aires will pull you in with tango, colorful street art, and food that will blow your mind.