Visitors to the EU face a significantly increased entry fee, as the Union nearly triples its initial charge
In the world of travel, there are always new developments and interesting stories to be found. Here are some of the latest news from Europe and beyond:
Italian Farmers Charge for Instagram Hot Spots
In a bid to protect their picturesque landscapes from the crowds, some Italian farmers have set up mountain turnstiles to charge access to popular Instagram hot spots. This move aims to discourage overtourism and preserve the beauty of these rural areas.
ETIAS Fee Hike for Non-EU Travelers
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) fee for non-EU nationals from visa-free countries is set to increase from 7 to 20 euros (approximately $23) next year. This fee applies to travelers from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Japan. The European Commission attributes the increase to rising inflation, additional operational costs, and aligning ETIAS with other travel authorization programs like the UK ETA and the US ESTA.
Swiss Residents Swim to Work
In a unique commute, some Swiss residents are swimming to work. With the country's stunning lake landscapes, it's not surprising that some opt for a refreshing swim instead of a morning commute by car or train.
Notable Moves Across the Globe
- Retired US veteran Christopher Boris and his wife Maria Jesus moved from Maryland to Brazil in 2024.
- Janet Blaser, originally from New York, relocated from California to Mexico nearly two decades ago. She started a magazine business and got herself a permanent resident visa in Mexico.
- Linda Leaming, a woman from Nashville, moved to the Kingdom of Bhutan in 1997 and has since found love and happiness there.
Historic Firsts in Aviation
The de Havilland DH106 1A Comet was the world's first passenger jet. This groundbreaking aircraft made its first commercial flight in 1952.
Unfortunately, the world's first airplane hijacking also took place in 1948 on the Miss Macao seaplane. The goal of the hijacking was to rob the passengers and hold them for ransom.
Budapest's Forgotten Bauhaus Airport
Budaörs in Budapest operates a beautiful, forgotten Bauhaus airport that's an aviation time capsule. This unique airport is a must-visit for any architecture or aviation enthusiast.
Living Mindfully in Bhutan
Moving to Bhutan, according to Linda Leaming, taught her to live mindfully. The small Himalayan kingdom is known for its emphasis on Gross National Happiness, a philosophy that prioritizes mental, physical, social, and environmental well-being over economic growth.
Packing Essentials for City Exploration
When hitting the city streets, comfortable walking shoes are always a necessity. Don't forget to pack a good pair to ensure a pleasant exploration of the sights and sounds of the city.
A 21st-Century Guide to Taking Off Your Clothes
In a nod to modern times, there is now a 21st-century guide to taking off your clothes. This guide, titled "Naked and Afraid," offers tips and advice for those looking to embrace their natural state and enjoy the benefits of being in touch with nature.
Isolated Country Ready for Tourists
This former Soviet state is one of the world's most isolated countries and is showing signs it's ready for more tourists. With its stunning landscapes and rich history, it's no wonder that this country is attracting the attention of travelers worldwide.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by late 2026. Travelers will be required to apply online in advance before entering the Schengen zone countries. ETIAS is designed to identify security or migration risks before travelers arrive, improving safety for both EU citizens and visitors amid growing travel volumes and more complex security threats. The higher fee reflects the EU's effort to balance the need for safer and more efficient border management with the administrative costs of running ETIAS.
- The Italian farmers' tactic of charging for Instagram hot spots illustrates a fusion of lifestyle and finance, as they aim to use income to preserve the beauty of rural areas and discourage overtourism.
- As travel becomes more accessible and technology advances, there are increasingly prominent examples of individuals making significant lifestyle changes, such as relocating to places like Bhutan and embracing mindfulness (referencing Linda Leaming's move to Bhutan and the growing tourist interest in the country).
