Tourism Spending Surge in South Korea: Foreign visitors’ credit-card spending hit 2.12 trillion won in May—over 2 trillion won for the first time—up 67.1% year-on-year, led by Chinese tourists; shopping jumped 77.8% and spending is increasingly split between “lifestyle” trends for younger travelers and ultra-luxury purchases. Northern Mariana Islands Air Link: Hong Kong Airlines will restart Hong Kong–Saipan service on July 12 with two weekly flights, offering China’s only direct route to Saipan. Cyprus Travel Update (UK): The UK Foreign Office removed some Middle East-related warnings from Cyprus travel advice ahead of peak summer, citing improved conditions. Philippines Diving Push: Linamon in Lanao del Norte is being positioned as Northern Mindanao’s next diving destination, with DOT-10 and local officials mapping coastal dive sites and focusing on sustainability and jobs. Cuba Seeks Investment: Cuba is pitching idle hotels and empty cruise terminals to foreign investors to revive tourism as US sanctions continue to bite. Hospitality Recognition (England): The Grand Brighton won bronze at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, while Bovey Castle took gold and Butlin’s won an outstanding tourism contribution award. Accessibility Travel Issue: A Paralympic athlete says British Airways denied her boarding at JFK because she was traveling alone, raising fresh questions about support for wheelchair users.