Varna to host new tourism university association and ‘Tourism Alley’

Bulgarian Tourism Minister Ilin Dimitrov announced the upcoming establishment of an association for Bulgarian higher education institutions specializing in tourism, scheduled for September 27 in Varna. In collaboration with the Varna Municipality, a ‘Tourism Alley’ will be created in the Sea Garden, where trees will be planted by partner universities and organizations.

To address challenges caused by the withdrawal of a German airline, a fund for aviation connectivity and advertising will support air carriers through three-year programs. Regarding environmental standards, Bulgaria currently ranks third in Europe for bathing water quality, with 26 beaches and six marinas holding the ‘Blue Flag’ status; the government aims to increase this to 40.

Legislative changes are expected next year to enhance consumer protection. The tour operator guarantee fund will be updated to fully cover damages from canceled trips due to bankruptcy or force majeure. Additionally, short-term rental apartments will be integrated into the Unified Tourism System.