Kari Halonen
What is right input-output ratio (ROI) in international tourism marketing?
This is a series of our tourism market analysis and wonders is tourism trade in Baltic and Nordic countries doing the right decisions when planning tourism marketing activities and how much there is an input what destination or company is doing in the market – and what are those decision-making methods and objectives at the…
Global tourism grows 5% in early 2025 despite ongoing challenges
According to UN Tourism, almost 690 million tourists travelled internationally between January and June 2025, about 33 million more than in the same period of 2024, though results were mixed among regions and subregions. When reading sector updates in social media or trade press, success stories often dominate the headlines. Destinations and companies proudly report…
The Baltic and Nordic Presence Shines at Arabian Travel Market
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has officially announced the theme for its 2026 edition, which will take place in Dubai from 4–7 May 2026: “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.” As the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East, ATM continues to be where East meets West, exploring the…
The Role of Travel Media in Destination and Business Development
Travel media is a key driver in how destinations and travel-related businesses are discovered and perceived. It encompasses traditional outlets such as newspapers, magazines, and television, as well as digital formats including online publications, social media platforms, blogs, and podcasts. Together, these channels shape traveler expectations and influence decision-making long before an actual booking takes…
Sales Visits in Germany and the Netherlands: The Power of Face-to-Face Meetings
Sales Visits in Germany and the Netherlands: The Power of Face-to-Face Meetings The journey towards new business opportunities began even before we boarded the plane. I had carefully prepared presentation materials and ensured that the price lists and product descriptions were in order. Our goal was to strengthen the visibility of Nordic tourism services and…
Several flights from Canada to Nordic countries in season 2025 – 2026
ToolBox Consulting will organize in 2026 a Roadshow in North America combining not only USA but also Canada. We make visits in Toronto (Ontario) and Montreal (Quebec). See what to expect from the Canadian market regarding accessibility: Summary Table of Direct Flights to Canada (2025–2026) Country Airline Route(s) Notes Finland Finnair HEL → YYZ Seasonal…
Norway Introduces Tourist Tax to Manage Growing Visitor Numbers
Norway Introduces Tourist Tax to Manage Growing Visitor Numbers Starting this summer, Norway has passed a new law enabling municipalities to introduce a tourist tax in areas significantly impacted by tourism. Approved in June, the decision grants local governments broad authority to apply the tax based on their specific needs and conditions. The tourist tax,…
ToolBox Consulting Ltd. – Celebrating 25 Years of Transforming Tourism
August 2nd, 2025 marks a remarkable milestone in the story of ToolBox Consulting Ltd. – 25 years of dedication, innovation, and international impact in the tourism industry. From modest beginnings to becoming a widely respected player in the Nordic and Baltic regions, our journey has been fueled by a passion for travel, a commitment to…