Tourism Policy Clash: Bulgaria’s restaurateurs are pushing back hard on Deputy PM Atanas Pekanov’s stance against a tourism VAT cut, arguing the comparison to Italy/Austria/Spain ignores tax, costs and purchasing power—and calling for a fairer, more predictable tax environment. Shoulder-Season City Breaks: A travel expert says September–October is the sweet spot for cheaper European flights and hotels, with walkable cities and lower car-rental prices helping travellers stretch budgets. Schengen/ETIAS Cost Update: New ETIAS-related entry fees are set to rise to about €20 (with family totals reaching €40 for two children), adding another planning step for UK travellers heading to core Schengen countries and Cyprus. Bulgaria Tourism Outlook: The tourism minister says the summer season isn’t over yet, but results should land close to last year (within 1–2%), helped by the return of German visitors and more agreed air seats for next season. Air Travel Demand: Tallinn Airport hit a record August with nearly 390,000 passengers (+16% y/y), showing continued summer demand for European routes. Unification Day in Plovdiv: Bulgaria marks Unification Day with major events in Plovdiv, including free museum access and a ceremonial programme tied to September 6, 1885. Direct Flight News: Jet2 confirmed new Eurovision 2027 flights to Bourgas from multiple UK airports, timed around the contest’s semi-finals and grand final.