Rising Costs of Travel Rising Costs of Travel (image credits: unsplash) The dream of a Hawaiian getaway has always come with a bit of a price tag, but recently, costs have become noticeably steeper. While the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s 2024 reports don’t cite exact airfare increases, various travel sources indicate that round-trip flights to Hawaii …
Jan Nowatschin
Japan: Stricter Entry Requirements Japan: Stricter Entry Requirements (image credits: wikimedia) In 2025, Japan has tightened its borders more than ever before. The government’s new policies mean that only those with a serious reason—like urgent business or family emergencies—are being granted entry permission. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visa process is more …
If you’ve ever watched the sunrise over a misty valley or wandered an ancient city before the crowds, you know magic happens when a place feels untouched. But what if those postcard-perfect scenes were suddenly off-limits? Around the world, beloved destinations—some you’ve dreamed of, others you might never have guessed—are signaling that the doors could …
Imagine you’re standing in line at the airport, heart pounding, palms sweaty, and you suddenly wonder, “Did I bring the right ID? What if my passport isn’t valid long enough?” You’re not alone. Even the most seasoned globetrotters get tripped up by persistent myths about U.S. passports. These misconceptions can turn excitement into anxiety and …
States Under ‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory States Under ‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory (image credits: unsplash) The following Mexican states are designated as Level 4: Do Not Travel due to high levels of crime and kidnapping: * Colima * Guerrero * Michoacán * Sinaloa * Tamaulipas These regions have experienced significant criminal activity, including targeted assassinations …
The Resurgence of Travel Shaming The Resurgence of Travel Shaming (image credits: unsplash) Travel shaming is having a moment again, and it’s much more than just a social media trend. With the world still adjusting to post-pandemic realities, people are more vocal about what they see as irresponsible travel choices. In 2024, travel restrictions eased …
Afghanistan: A Nation Off-Limits Afghanistan: A Nation Off-Limits (image credits: unsplash) Afghanistan has become one of the least accessible countries for tourists since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. International tourism has plummeted due to heightened security concerns, limited consular services, and widespread travel advisories, with the United Nations reporting a significant decline in …
Japan: The Unrivaled Leader Japan: The Unrivaled Leader (image credits: wikimedia) Japan sits at the very top of the passport power rankings for 2025, boasting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to an astounding 193 destinations. This level of travel freedom is practically unmatched and speaks volumes about Japan’s extensive network of diplomatic partnerships. Travelers from Japan …
New Frontiers Closing Off New Frontiers Closing Off (image credits: unsplash) Picture yourself standing at the threshold of a hidden paradise—ancient temples shrouded in mist, turquoise seas untouched by footprints, or alleyways echoing with the stories of centuries past. Now imagine being told you might never set foot there again. Around the globe, beloved destinations …
Dreaming of Cobblestones and Cappuccinos Dreaming of Cobblestones and Cappuccinos (image credits: wikimedia) Picture this: you’re standing on a sun-warmed street in Florence, the scent of fresh espresso swirling with the hint of old stone. Tourists chatter in dozens of languages. The Duomo looms above, proud and impossibly intricate. For years, I chased this daydream—Europe …