AGP Executive Report

Air Routes: Ryanair has opened bookings on 29 summer 2027 routes, including Athens–Turin and Norwich–Malaga. Jet2, meanwhile, will end its Manchester–La Palma flights on October 30, only six months after launch, and says affected customers can rebook or seek a refund. Visitor Demand: China’s extended autumn holiday boosted long-haul travel to Europe. Trip.com data shows average stays rising to 16.1 days, from 14.8 a year earlier. Spain Stays: From December, some holiday rentals providing hotel-style services will face VAT, which could add to guests’ bills. Schengen Visas: EU plans to tighten tourist visa rules for Russian citizens, with restrictions expected in 2027. Venice Tourism: Local hoteliers say the city needs stronger civic services and more overnight visitors to ease the pressure of day-tripping crowds.

Schengen Visas: The EU is preparing tighter rules for Russian tourists, with a proposal expected in January 2027. Around 478,000 Schengen visas were issued to Russian citizens last year, prompting security concerns among member states. New Flight Route: Exeter Airport will add twice-weekly Ryanair flights to Porto next summer, opening up northern Portugal for city breaks and trips to the Douro Valley. Winter Flights: easyJet is cutting another 700,000 winter seats, leaving travellers with fewer options. Tourism Pressures: Spain plans to apply new VAT to tourist rentals from December, while Barcelona is advancing a proposal to raise property tax on holiday lets by 150%. Industry Outlook: WTTC forecasts European travel and tourism will grow 3.1% in 2026, while urging stronger cooperation and smoother travel.

Air Travel Disruption: A deadly attack on Riyadh airport killed 12 people and injured 309, disrupting flights across Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Travellers connecting through the region should check with their airlines before departure. New European Route: Vietjet has launched twice-weekly Prague–Hanoi flights, with a stop in Almaty. Prague is the airline’s first European destination. Schengen Visas: EU plans to propose tighter visa rules for Russian visitors in January, citing security concerns. Separately, Gulf states expect progress towards starting a process to waive Schengen visas for citizens of five GCC countries at an EU-GCC summit on October 24. Tourism Outlook: Europe’s travel and tourism sector is forecast to grow 3.1% in 2026, outpacing the wider economy, according to the WTTC, which has called for stronger investment, digital visas and a skilled workforce. Autumn Getaways: The Canary Islands expect milder weather on Sunday, with temperatures reaching 26–27°C and occasional showers. Fuerteventura is also drawing attention for October sunshine and direct flights from East Midlands Airport.

Lesvos Rescue: A German tourist was treated for burns after his boat caught fire and sank off Lesvos; a nearby vessel rescued him, and he was reported out of immediate danger. Barcelona Rentals: The city has approved a proposal for property-tax surcharges of up to 150% on licensed holiday flats, depending on how many an owner holds. The measure still needs municipal authorisation as officials seek to curb tourist accommodation and ease housing pressures. Athens on the Rise: The Greek capital is drawing renewed attention, with its airport recording more than four million passengers in August. Visitors are also looking beyond the main sights to neighbourhoods such as Exarcheia. Quieter Greek Islands: Alonissos is being promoted as a less-visited alternative to the famous islands, offering beaches, villages and access to a major marine park. Travel Outlook: Europe’s tourism sector is forecast to grow 3.1% in 2026, ahead of the wider economy, according to WTTC figures. Getting There: Air France plans direct Paris flights to Nashville and San Diego from May 2027, while threatened Ouigo strikes could disrupt Spain’s November and December long weekends.

Air Travel: British Airways has revealed redesigned cabins for its A380s, including new seats across all classes. The first refurbished aircraft is expected to enter service in the coming months. Icelandair will add seasonal nonstop flights between St. Louis and Reykjavík, with connections across Europe, and bring Madrid back to its network in 2027. Family Travel: The UK is considering rules requiring airlines to seat children under 14 beside an accompanying adult at no extra cost, and to waive fees for correcting booking-name errors. Tourism Trends: Croatia says it has welcomed more than 20 million visitors in 2026. Greece is expanding mountain tourism beyond experienced climbers, while a Condé Nast Traveller readers’ poll named it the world’s best country. Disruption Watch: Strikes threaten Spain’s Ouigo services on November and December long weekends, and a nationwide strike is planned for November 11. Travellers should check services before setting off. Cruise Caution: Low Danube water levels disrupted TUI sailings, leaving some passengers to travel by coach instead of ship; the company says its terms do not guarantee refunds when buses complete the itinerary. Industry Outlook: WTTC says European travel and tourism is set to grow 3.1% in 2026, outpacing the global economy.

Greece in the Spotlight: Greece was named the world’s best country for 2026 in Condé Nast Traveller’s readers’ awards, while growing interest in Mount Olympus points to a wider appeal beyond beaches — from easy nature outings to serious hikes. Travel Disruption: Ouigo train strikes in Spain threaten six days of high-speed travel around autumn and winter long weekends, affecting routes including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Málaga. Tourism Outlook: Málaga hoteliers expect a tougher autumn, with occupancy forecast to fall in October and November after years of record tourism. Greener Destinations: Benidorm won a 2028 European Green Leaf award for balancing mass tourism with environmental protection; Zaragoza will be European Green Capital.

Spain Travel Disruption: A nationwide strike planned for November 11 could disrupt flights, trains, buses and tourist attractions; travellers should check for updates before setting off. Cross-Channel Rail: Virgin has revealed plans for 20 daily return services between London and Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam from 2030, potentially adding 7.5 million seats a year and challenging Eurostar. Tourism Rankings: Spain ranks third globally in the 2026 Travel & Tourism Development Index, with gains in tourist services, air transport and sustainability. Greece and Croatia: Greece is heading for another record tourism year, while Croatia welcomed 20.1 million visitors in the first nine months of 2026, up 2% year on year. Holiday Planning: easyJet holidays is adding thousands of European city-break hotels to flight bookings, with package bookings covered by ABTA and ATOL. Insurance Reminder: A British holidaymaker in Skiathos faced a £28,000 bill after a quad-bike accident because her policy did not cover the vehicle.

Greek Food Tourism: Michelin is expanding its Greece guide beyond Athens, adding Thessaloniki and Santorini to spotlight regional cuisine and support year-round visits. Destination Strategy: A tourism forum in Santorini and Mykonos is seeking ways to promote experiences beyond the islands’ famous images; Greece was also named the world’s best tourism country in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 readers’ awards. Air Links: Air France plans new Nashville and San Diego routes in May 2027, while Icelandair will connect St. Louis with Reykjavik and onward to more than 35 European destinations. Travel Disruption: A planned general strike in Spain next month could disrupt flights and public transport. Industry Outlook: WTTC forecasts Europe’s travel and tourism sector will grow 3.1% in 2026, outpacing the wider economy.

Air Travel: EU airlines will have to include a cabin bag in standard fares from October 2027, with travellers able to opt out for a lower price. Rail Connections: A new booking partnership lets Eurostar passengers continue overnight from Brussels to Berlin, Prague, Milan, Lake Como, Dresden or Hamburg on one ticket. Tourism Outlook: Europe’s travel sector is forecast to grow 3.1% in 2026, outpacing the wider economy, according to WTTC figures unveiled in Malta. Food Tourism: Michelin is expanding its Greece guide beyond Athens to include Thessaloniki and Santorini, with selections due October 20. Visitor Health: A UK report says sewage was discharged into waterways for more than three million hours in 2025, raising concerns about risks to swimmers and coastal visitors. Spain’s Housing Crunch: The crisis has helped trigger a snap election, as residents in popular destinations warn that short-term rentals are worsening pressure on housing.

Greek Tourism: Santorini is looking beyond its famous caldera views, promoting gastronomy, wine, culture, nature and wellness to attract travellers seeking richer experiences. Air Links: Aegean Airlines plans Athens–Damascus flights from Dec. 2, with services to Tripoli and Benghazi targeted for May 2027, subject to approvals. Travel Checks: Spain has extended temporary controls on air and sea arrivals from Italy through Oct. 22; affected travellers should check their documents before departure. Rail Travel: Eurail has adopted the Interrail name worldwide, bringing international visitors under one brand; existing passes remain valid. Tourism Pressures: The death of an 87-year-old Madrid woman after her eviction, reportedly linked to plans for tourist apartments, has fuelled protests and renewed debate over holiday rentals and housing. Industry Outlook: WTTC forecasts Europe’s travel and tourism sector will grow 3.1% in 2026, outpacing the wider economy.

EU Sanctions: Brussels is preparing its biggest Russia sanctions list expansion since 2022, with around 1,650 new designations aimed at Russia’s military-industrial network. Travel Tech: Amazon’s Alexa+ is being pitched as a new “shop window” for travel, letting users search and book flights, hotels and cars via eDreams Odigeo. EV Charging: Powerdot has enabled Plug&Charge across 7,000+ European charge points through Hubject, so compatible EVs can start charging without apps or cards. Air & Rail: Germany backs a €9bn Hanover–Hamburg rail upgrade by 2050, while Eurostar adds a tool to bundle Eurostar tickets with European Sleeper night trains from Brussels. Tourism Policy: Cyprus’ tourism budget is set to drop nearly €15m in 2027, as presidency-linked spending ends. Spain Rentals: Spain’s new rules allow stressed housing areas to add IBI surcharges of up to 150% on holiday rentals. Health Alert: West Nile virus is being reported across 16 European countries, with warnings to take mosquito-bite precautions. Greece Travel: Athens is being promoted for winter culture breaks, with quieter sites and indoor programming—just shorter opening hours to plan around.

Ebola Alert for Travellers: Kenya confirmed its first imported Ebola case after a patient died in Nairobi, triggering 21-day monitoring for 28 contacts and tracing of passengers from a flight via Uganda. Tourism & Weather Safety: Barcelona issued a red rain alert after over 90mm fell in an hour, warning visitors to avoid flood-prone areas and follow civil protection guidance. Greece Tourism Push: The GNTO is running a Santorini-Mykonos forum to boost overseas demand, while Rhodes is courting Indian travel agents to build long-term island-hopping links. EU Travel Policy: The EU adopted new air passenger rights rules, with further discussion on biometric checks and how travellers may opt out. Spain Housing Fallout: Spain’s courts cleared the way for Puigdemont’s return as the country heads toward a snap election, while anti-tourism protests and housing measures keep disrupting the travel mood. Luxury Travel: Hurtigruten compares its Coastal Express versus Signature voyages for different styles of Norway travel.

EU Enlargement Watch: The European Commission is set to unveil its long-awaited pre-enlargement strategy on Oct 6, with EU leaders debating it Oct 15-16 and proposals that could dilute newcomers’ membership rights. Spain Politics & Travel Mood: Pedro Sánchez has called a snap election for Nov 29 after parliament rejected a housing package, as protests over rents and mass migration—highlighted by chaos in Ceuta—keep escalating. Barcelona Disruption: Violent clashes during a housing protest left 13 detained and about 30 police injured, with unrest spilling into major tourist areas like Plaça Catalunya and La Rambla. Greece Climate Pressure: Koroneia Lake in northern Greece has lost about 90% of its water, turning a bird refuge into cracked mud—another reminder of water stress for travel regions. Air & Border Friction: A passenger says EES queues in Brussels caused them to miss a Ryanair flight and compensation was denied; separate reporting also notes France issued a warning to Americans amid violent student protests. Tourism Business Moves: British Airways unveils refreshed A380 cabins, while Generator expands in London and Paris and Five Guys hits its 300th European restaurant milestone.

Black Sea Shipping: Ukraine’s Zelensky says Russian drones sank a Turkish cargo ship carrying corn, killing the captain and one crew member, with others rescued. Japan Travel Guides: Lonely Planet adds a standalone guide to the Shikoku pilgrimage route of 88 temples, betting on demand for quieter, local Japan. Spain Housing & Politics: Spain’s housing crisis is driving major disruption: Pedro Sánchez calls a snap general election for 29 November after housing decrees fail, while unions UGT and CCOO plan a 24-hour general strike this autumn. UK Defence & Travel Security: Conservatives unveil an “Iron Dome”-style “Britannia Shield” plan to protect London and other key UK sites from missile and drone threats. Tourism Operations: Viva Cruises launches a travel agent selling guide for its river ships and all-inclusive onboard offering. Travel Deals & Planning: Apple One subscription prices rise in multiple European countries, and new guidance highlights eligibility rules for Singapore’s 96-hour visa-free transit.

Italy Travel Safety: A fire at the Bella Italia campsite on Lake Garda injured 24 people, with one suffering severe burns and many treated for carbon monoxide poisoning; authorities say about 20 structures were destroyed and the cause is under investigation. Greece Demographics & Travel Impact: On remote Kalamos, dwindling student numbers threaten the island’s last school, highlighting how population decline is reshaping life on Greek islands and potentially visitor demand. Spain Housing Crisis & Tourism Backlash: Spain’s housing protests escalated after lawmakers rejected tenant protections, with clashes in Valencia and Madrid; Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called a snap election for Nov. 29, a move likely to keep pressure on the rental market that affects holidaymakers too. UK Travel Culture: Clovelly in North Devon is being touted as a car-free “stepping into another era” village for visitors seeking quieter autumn breaks. Germany Rail Deals: Deutsche Bahn is making its €99.99 family ticket permanent from Nov 1, with return long-distance travel for up to five people including seat reservations. Cruise & Mediterranean Planning: Emerald Yacht Cruises released its 2027–2029 collection, adding longer Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries plus new ships. Cyprus Tourism Push: Nicosia is targeting Greek visitors with year-round offers focused on culture, food, events and short breaks. Weather Warning for Holidaymakers: Barcelona and nearby areas faced a red alert for extreme storms and flooding risk, urging people to avoid flood-prone zones and follow Civil Protection guidance.

Ukraine Security & Diplomacy: Spain says its embassy in Kyiv will stay open despite Russian threats, with Germany and Poland backing the same stance as drones hit the city during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit. Military Aid: Merz announced a further €1.3bn support package for Ukraine, including €1bn military and €350m energy repairs, as strikes target bridges and infrastructure. Travel Disruption (Spain): Severe storms and flash flooding in Catalonia killed two people and left another missing, with authorities warning tourists to avoid unnecessary travel. Holiday Travel Costs (Europe): Hopper flags a potentially pricier holiday flight season, with Europe fares up year-on-year for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. ETIAS Update: ETIAS is set to cost €20 and is expected to be live in late 2026, but it won’t replace visas for Cubans who still need one. Airports & Border Tech (UK): UK e-gates are rolling out facial recognition to speed up border checks, starting with Birmingham and East Midlands. Cruise & Leisure: Fred. Olsen’s Balmoral begins a 71-night Mediterranean voyage, while Kinsale (Ireland) confirms at least six cruise calls next year. Tourism Safety (Italy): A fire at a Lake Garda campsite injured 24 guests, with investigations under way.