New Air Route: GullivAir will launch direct Malé–Sofia flights from 6 November 2026, running weekly through the 2026/27 winter season, giving Bulgarians a non-stop link to the Maldives. Border Boost: Bulgaria is accelerating the new Kapitan Andreevo–North crossing for heavy goods vehicles, aiming to cut waiting times at the EU’s busiest land border. Tourism Numbers: Bulgaria’s July overnight stays fell 5.4% year-on-year, but accommodation revenue rose 11.4%, with foreign visitors driving much of the income. Polish Market Push: Tourism Minister Ilin Dimitrov says Bulgaria will strengthen ties with Polish tour operators at a forum in Sunny Beach on 15 September, targeting more year-round travel. Danube Finds: Critically low Danube water levels near Ruse have exposed ancient remains, including a woolly mammoth jaw and other long-buried artefacts. Aviation Demand: Eurocontrol reports record summer air traffic across Europe despite Middle East war disruptions, with Bulgaria among countries seeing lower traffic. Travel Disruption Warning: Bulgaria’s Foreign Ministry warns of a planned 14 September strike by carriers from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with possible border blocks affecting routes. Safety Incident: A passenger train collided with a truck at a level crossing near Beli Izvor; no serious injuries reported and passengers will be bused onward.