Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. government will end its popular 'drop-box' visa renewal option for travelers from 57 countries. Everyone now needs an in-person interview, leading to longer waits and higher costs. Here’s what this could mean for travelers, hotel bookings, and the broader tourism scene.
September 8, 2025Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. State Department plans to end the convenient ‘drop-box’ or Interview Waiver Program for visa renewals in 57 countries. Travelers from these countries—including Afghanistan, Cuba, Egypt, Iran, and Venezuela—will soon need to attend in-person interviews for U.S. visas, a change expected to bring longer processing times, higher costs, and hassles for tourists and businesses alike. While officials say the goal is better security and consistency, the travel industry could feel the pinch.
September 6, 2025Visitor numbers in Las Vegas have been slipping for months, leading to big changes for travelers and the businesses that rely on them. While some bemoan empty casinos and rising prices, others are finding hidden advantages in Sin City’s unexpected slowdown. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next trip.
September 5, 2025The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting to screen over 17 million passengers during Labor Day week 2025—a new record! If you’re planning to travel between August 28 and September 3, get ready for both excitement and a few challenges. Here’s what this busy travel surge could mean for your trip, your wallet, and your next hotel booking.
August 25, 2025Anti-immigration protests are expected to affect hotels across the UK during the August 2025 Bank Holiday period. Here’s what this might mean for travelers and the hospitality scene, and tips on staying safe and flexible if your summer plans include the UK.
August 23, 2025Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Tianjin, China, for the SCO Summit in late August 2025, and the city is getting ready for this major international event. While this means lots of excitement and upgrades for Tianjin, travelers might want to plan ahead to avoid some temporary bumps in the road. Here’s a friendly breakdown of what this event could mean for anyone thinking of exploring Tianjin around the summit dates.
August 22, 2025Patna’s upcoming metro line between Danapur Cantonment and Khemnichak is set to open on August 15, 2025. Many believe this new transit option could make getting around the city easier and more enjoyable for travelers and shake up the local hospitality scene—though a few bumps in the road may remain as everyone gets used to the changes.
August 15, 2025On August 12, 2024, travelers at Cairns’ DoubleTree by Hilton faced a shocking ordeal when a helicopter crashed onto the hotel’s roof. While tragic, the event shines a spotlight on what tourists should know about safety and how the travel industry might change in response.
August 12, 2025Planning a trip to the United States in 2025 or later? A brand new $250 visa fee is coming—and it’s already sparking big conversations in travel circles. Will it change where you jet off next, or dampen the festivities around the World Cup and Olympics? Here’s what travelers need to know.
August 11, 2025As the U.S. gets ready to introduce a new $250 “visa integrity fee” in 2025, travelers from around the world may face not only higher costs but a tough choice: attend iconic events like the World Cup and Olympics, or look elsewhere? Here’s how experts think this fee could shake up your travel plans and the hospitality industry—plus some silver linings for the government’s bottom line.
August 6, 2025