In a move that has sent ripples through New Zealand’s vital tourism sector, the government has announced a nearly threefold increase in entry fees for foreign visitors. Effective October 1, 2024, international tourists will be required to pay NZ$100 ($62) to enter the country—a significant jump from the current fee of NZ$35 ($22). This development has sparked a...
If you’re planning a vacation in Europe next year or beyond, there’s a new travel requirement you need to be aware of: the European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS. Starting in May 2025, Americans, Brits, and travellers from 60 other non-EU countries will need to apply for this preauthorization before entering Europe’s Schengen Area. Here’s...
As I stepped onto the cobbled streets of Lisbon, Portugal, I felt a rush of excitement pulsing through me. Today, my destination was the illustrious Castelo de S. Jorge, a fortress perched high atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, offering not only a glimpse into Portugal’s storied past but also unparalleled views of the sprawling city below. With...
Alaska Airlines and Expedia have joined forces to elevate your travel experience, making it easier than ever to earn and redeem rewards. With the introduction of the Alaska Vacations portal, you can now book your entire trip—including flights, car rentals, and lodging—all while racking up those valuable Mileage Plan miles. Whether you’re planning a quick...
Last week I was in Sitges, Spain, where I had the amazing opportunity to attend the 2024 Fiesta Major. If you’ve been following my channel, you know I’m all about immersing myself in different cultures and sharing those experiences. This week’s video is a deep dive into one of the most vibrant and colourful festivals in Catalonia, and trust me, you...
Prints from New York City were dominating in the last few days, here are this week’s most photographs sorted by how many visitors purchased or expressed interest in prints from the Travel Essayist Gallery. At Fine Art America, which creates the final products, they obsess over every detail to ensure your satisfaction. With expert staff at their 16 global fulfillment...
Let’s talk about dining solo today! Travelling solo comes with a host of benefits—you get to follow your schedule, indulge in mid-day naps without guilt, and be as spontaneous as you like. But for many solo adventurers, there’s one aspect of the journey that can be particularly daunting: dining alone. Despite the growing popularity of solo travel, eating out by...
Most of us are still recovering from the chaos COVID brought to travel just a few years ago. With travel anxiety on the rise and a new virus spreading, it’s crucial to understand how mpox could impact your plans. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness spread through physical contact—whether that’s with someone who is infected, certain animals, or...
Tokyo, often unfairly labeled as pricey, offers budget travelers a treasure trove of experiences that won’t break the bank. Compared to its Western European counterparts, Tokyo is surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. Here’s how you can uncover Tokyo’s charms without denting your wallet: Navigating from Tokyo’s Airports to Downtown Touching down at...
As I stepped onto the weathered planks of the Coney Island boardwalk in New York City, I felt a surge of anticipation mingled with nostalgia. The sun hung lazily in the afternoon sky, casting long shadows across the wooden slats and infusing the air with a golden hue. It was the perfect time for a stroll along this iconic stretch of coastline, where the echoes of...