Ferry Disaster in the Philippines: A passenger ferry fire off Coron, Palawan killed at least five people and left 87 missing, with 42 rescued so far as coast guard crews continue searches. UK Tourism Costs: England mayors are set to gain power to charge an uncapped “overnight visitor levy,” a move hospitality groups warn could hit jobs and holiday budgets. Tourism Investment in Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka’s cabinet approved a Rs. 173.86m consultancy contract to support a $30m ADB-funded sustainable tourism program upgrading facilities in Dambulla-Sigiriya and Trincomalee. Airport Growth in Ireland: Shannon Airport recorded nearly 9% passenger growth in July year-on-year, driven by new summer routes to Warsaw, Madrid, Poznan, Rome and Frankfurt. Heritage Upgrade in Ireland: Galway City Museum redevelopment has started, with a €19m project adding new exhibition and education space plus an extension and improved accessibility. Regional Tourism Push in New Zealand: Tourism Minister Louise Upston announced a $5m Regional Tourism Boost Fund backing six international campaigns to draw visitors in quieter months. Tourism Safety and Conduct: A German tourist was reportedly brutally beaten at a beach bar in Greece after an alleged altercation, with police investigating. Zimbabwe Expo Momentum: President Mnangagwa opened Zimbabwe’s Sanganai/Hlanganani tourism expo, citing H1 2026 arrivals of 6.4m and tourism investment rising to $132.3m.