Italy: The Cash-Back Program
Italy is making headlines in 2025 with its exciting cash-back program for tourists. Visitors who spend money in local businesses, especially in the southern regions, can claim up to €300 back on their expenses. The Italian government wants to revitalize areas that have seen fewer tourists in recent years, hoping for a 20% increase in visitor numbers. To qualify, travelers must register online and submit receipts as proof of spending. This approach encourages people to explore lesser-known destinations beyond Rome, Venice, and Florence. Italy’s rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality become even more appealing with this cash incentive. Local businesses are welcoming the initiative, seeing it as a chance to recover after challenging years. The program is already drawing interest from travelers eager to experience authentic Italian culture while saving money.
Spain: The Tourist Incentive Scheme
Spain is taking bold steps to attract visitors by offering up to €200 for those who explore its hidden gems. The Tourist Incentive Scheme focuses on rural areas that have struggled with declining tourist numbers. Travelers can claim money by visiting selected towns and engaging in cultural activities like cooking classes or guided tours. The Spanish government expects this plan to increase rural tourism by 15% in 2025. Many travelers overlook Spain’s countryside, but this program encourages deeper exploration. The incentive is also designed to support small businesses and promote sustainable travel. By choosing lesser-known destinations, tourists help preserve Spain’s unique heritage. The scheme is making Spain’s charming villages and landscapes more accessible and enticing for everyone.
Greece: The Explore and Earn Program
Greece’s “Explore and Earn” program is creating a buzz by rewarding tourists with up to €250 for visiting historical sites and engaging with local communities. The initiative targets less popular regions, hoping for a 25% increase in visitors there. Tourists receive vouchers redeemable at participating businesses, which stimulates local economies and cultural exchange. The program is simple: travelers register, visit designated locations, and collect vouchers for their activities. Greece’s ancient ruins, sun-soaked islands, and welcoming locals are now paired with this financial incentive. Many visitors are expected to discover hidden treasures off the usual tourist trail. The government sees this as an opportunity to share Greece’s authentic charm while supporting communities in need. The “Explore and Earn” program is inspiring more people to experience Greece beyond the famous hotspots.
Portugal: The Experience Grant
Portugal’s “Experience Grant” offers up to €150 to tourists for participating in local experiences like wine tastings, artisan workshops, or culinary tours. This initiative, set for 2025, aims to support local artisans and enrich the visitor experience. Travelers must apply online and submit receipts from their chosen activities to claim the grant. Portugal expects an 18% boost in tourism, especially in regions outside Lisbon and Porto. The program encourages deeper engagement with Portuguese culture and traditions. It’s designed to make travel more interactive and memorable for visitors. By supporting small businesses and craftspeople, the grant is helping preserve Portugal’s unique heritage. Many travelers are already planning trips to enjoy both the sights and the perks of the Experience Grant.
Japan: The Cultural Exchange Program
Japan is introducing a cultural exchange program that offers up to ¥30,000 (about $270) to visitors who participate in traditional activities. These include tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and hands-on workshops with local artisans. Tourists must register and provide proof of participation to receive the funds. The Japanese government hopes to boost tourism in rural areas by 10% through this initiative. Japan’s deep-rooted traditions and striking scenery attract travelers from all over the world. The program aims to promote cultural understanding and support artisans who keep these traditions alive. Visitors benefit from meaningful, immersive experiences, while local communities gain more economic support. This incentive is making Japan an even more rewarding destination for those seeking authentic cultural journeys.
Iceland: The Green Travel Incentive
Iceland is launching a “Green Travel Incentive” in 2025, encouraging eco-friendly tourism with up to ISK 30,000 (around $230) for participating in sustainable activities. Tourists can earn the incentive by joining guided hikes, whale watching, or other environmentally friendly tours. The initiative requires travelers to apply online and submit evidence of their green activities. Iceland aims to increase tourism by 12% while promoting responsible travel and conservation. The breathtaking landscapes, geysers, and unique wildlife are big draws for nature lovers. The program supports environmental education, encouraging visitors to respect Iceland’s fragile ecosystems. Local tour operators are adapting their offerings to meet demand for eco-conscious experiences. The Green Travel Incentive is turning Iceland into a leader in sustainable tourism.
New Zealand: The Adventure Fund
New Zealand’s “Adventure Fund” will pay tourists up to NZD 400 (about $260) for taking part in adrenaline-filled activities. This includes bungee jumping, skydiving, zip-lining, and more, with a focus on adventure tourism hotspots. To qualify, visitors must register and provide proof of their chosen adventures. The government hopes this fund will boost tourism by 15% and support local businesses recovering from recent downturns. New Zealand’s dramatic mountains, lakes, and forests are famous among thrill-seekers. The Adventure Fund is not just about fun; it’s also about helping tourism-dependent communities. More people are expected to travel to lesser-known adventure sites, spreading the economic benefits further. The program is making New Zealand even more irresistible for those who crave excitement.
Canada: The Explore Canada Program
Canada is rolling out the “Explore Canada Program,” offering up to CAD 300 (about $230) for tourists who visit national parks and join outdoor activities. The program is designed to promote domestic tourism and support communities near natural attractions. Tourists apply online and submit proof of their adventures to receive the incentive. Canada expects a 20% increase in visits to its national parks, which range from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic coastline. The country’s vast wilderness and diverse wildlife are key attractions for travelers seeking nature and adventure. The program encourages people to explore beyond big cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Local businesses near parks are preparing for more visitors eager to experience the great outdoors. The Explore Canada Program is making the country’s natural beauty even more accessible.
Thailand: The Cultural Immersion Grant
Thailand’s “Cultural Immersion Grant” is offering up to THB 10,000 (roughly $300) for tourists who engage in cultural experiences such as cooking classes, temple visits, or traditional dance performances. Travelers need to register and show proof of participation to claim the grant. The government aims to increase tourism by 15% in less-visited regions, spreading the benefits to more communities. Thailand’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes draw millions of visitors each year. The grant is designed to create meaningful connections between tourists and locals by encouraging deeper cultural exchanges. Local businesses and artisans are expected to see increased demand for authentic experiences. The program is making Thailand’s lesser-known destinations more appealing to travelers. The Cultural Immersion Grant is sparking new interest in exploring the heart of Thai traditions.
Australia: The Outback Adventure Program
Australia’s “Outback Adventure Program” is set to offer up to AUD 400 (about $280) for tourists who visit remote areas and participate in local experiences in 2025. Visitors apply online and must provide proof of their journeys to claim the incentive. The government hopes to increase tourism by 10% in the Outback and support Indigenous communities and rural businesses. Australia’s rugged landscapes, unique wildlife, and ancient culture provide unforgettable experiences for adventurous travelers. The program is designed to draw visitors away from the crowded cities and into the heart of the country. Indigenous guides and local operators are preparing to welcome more travelers eager to learn about their heritage. The Outback Adventure Program is set to make Australia’s wild heart more accessible and rewarding for everyone.
Switzerland: The Mountain Adventure Bonus
Switzerland is launching the “Mountain Adventure Bonus” in 2025, rewarding tourists up to CHF 250 (about $270) for exploring Alpine villages and participating in mountain sports. The initiative aims to attract more visitors to lesser-known ski resorts and summer hiking destinations. Tourists must register online and provide receipts from activities like skiing, mountain biking, or guided alpine tours to receive the bonus. The Swiss government expects a 13% rise in tourism to these areas, helping to support small mountain communities. Switzerland’s breathtaking peaks, pristine lakes, and charming towns are major attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The program is designed to extend the tourist season beyond winter and spread visitors throughout the year. Local businesses and guides are excited about the increased interest in their regions. The Mountain Adventure Bonus is making Switzerland’s majestic landscapes even more tempting for travelers in 2025.
United Arab Emirates: The Desert Discovery Reward
The United Arab Emirates is rolling out the “Desert Discovery Reward,” giving tourists up to AED 1,000 (about $270) for experiencing desert safaris, camel rides, and cultural tours. The goal is to draw more visitors to the country’s lesser-known deserts and traditional heritage sites. Tourists register through a government portal and must provide proof of participation in eligible activities to receive the reward. The UAE expects a 17% increase in tourism to rural and desert regions as a result. The initiative highlights the country’s unique blend of modern luxury and ancient culture. Local tour operators and hospitality businesses are preparing to offer new experiences and packages for adventurous travelers. The Desert Discovery Reward is making the UAE’s stunning landscapes and traditions more accessible to international visitors. The program is set to boost tourism and support local communities in 2025.
