Tourism & Connectivity: Maldives expects seven airlines to launch seasonal flights in the final quarter, including a Bulgarian carrier, as the country targets a strong peak season despite earlier Middle East disruption. Aviation Disruption (Bulgaria): TUI fly passengers were left stranded in Varna after a bus collision hit a Boeing 737 MAX 8, with hotels arranged while the aircraft damage delayed the return to Brussels. EU Tourism Recognition: Sofia has been shortlisted as a finalist for European Capitals of Tourism 2027, and Sandanski also reached the final—Bulgaria is the only country with both cities in the competition. Local Travel & Culture: Robbie Williams is set to headline PhillGood 2027 in Plovdiv (July 16–18), with the municipality pitching the event as a boost for tourism and visitor stays. Marine Awareness in Varna: A 28-metre inflatable blue whale “Zvezda” has appeared at Sea Garden, backed by Whale Guardians, to highlight ship-whale collision risks. Safety on the Roads: Two brothers (17 and 18) died in a crash on the Smolyan–Smilyan road; the 18-year-old driver has been detained. Business Real Estate: Bulgaria’s retail parks are on track to overtake shopping malls by end-Q3, with new completions up sharply and vacancy in retail parks falling.