Travel News Round-Up 5th August

Every Sunday we review the best travel news of the week. Here is the travel news from last week, ending 29th July 2012.

Annual wildebeest migration in full swing in Africa

The wildebeest migration is now in full flow to the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The animals journey from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Kenya. The wildebeest travel en masse in huge herds as up to two million animals travel southwards. However, this year’s migration is not without controversy as the Kenyan media claimed this week that the Tanzanians are blocking the animals from entering into the country. Would you try to block two million high-speed animals travelling at break neck pace? Thought not. Read more at allAfrica.com »

Malaysia Tourism grows by +1.2% in 2012

The Tourism Minister, Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen has confirmed that the number of tourists visiting Malaysia has increased by +1.2% since the start of the year, with visitors from Asean making up 73.4% of the total arrivals. The aim of the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan 2020 is to reach 36 million tourists and 168 billion in receipts. Read more at Breaking Travel News »

Swiss tourism boosted by Asian tourists

New figures out have shown that whilst Switzerland is declining as a popular holiday destination for other Europeans (down 4.6% from last year), the number of Asian tourists visiting this alpine country have actually increased by 8.3%. A survey by Ctrip.com has shown that Switzerland is now the preferred destination for mainland Chinese travellers. Perhaps Asian travellers are lured by the promise of snow, stunning views of the Alps and the pristine air. Read more at Reuters »

and finally... holidaymaker returns with a surprise in her suitcase

A holidaymaker from the UK returned from Spain with more than she originally bargained for: a Deathstalker Scorpion. It was only when her daughter borrowed the suitcase that the deadly critter was discovered. Bites not only can cause anaphylaxis, but are also extremely resistant to venom. So next time check your suitcase before you travel home! Read more at the Travel Mole »

Thanks to Tim Gold for the header shot!