All published updates

Japan Earthquake and Middle East Tensions Affect Travel

The UK FCDO updated travel advice for Japan, noting a large earthquake in Kumamoto prefecture on July 28, with aftershocks potentially causing travel disruption. Additionally, escalation in the Middle East has caused global travel disruption, including airspace closures and flight delays, advising travelers to monitor updates.

Impact and considerations

Earthquake and geopolitical risks may impact business travelers' itineraries, requiring companies to monitor employee safety and adjust travel plans.

Omio to acquire Rail Europe, secures $10M investment

Omio Group has agreed to acquire Rail Europe, a global distributor of European rail tickets, with the deal expected to close in September. Separately, Omio received a $10 million strategic investment from Granite-Integral to expand in Japan and Southeast Asia. The acquisition will strengthen Omio's global rail capabilities and distribution network.

Expedia research: APAC travel growth but complexity risks

Expedia Group research shows 65% of travel professionals expect APAC travel demand to increase in the next 2-3 years, but complexity in payments, content, and technology may hinder growth. The survey covered 1,250 professionals.

Japan's inbound tourism boom becomes policy priority

According to Phocuswright research, Japan's total travel gross bookings rose 8% to $94.2 billion in 2025. Inbound arrivals reached a record 42.7 million, while outbound travelers totaled 14.7 million. The government now treats tourism as a pillar, targeting 60 million inbound visitors and ¥15 trillion spending by 2030, but shifting focus to higher-value travel, regional dispersion, and overtourism management.