Visitors to the EU now face an almost three-fold increase in entry fees prior to their arrival.
In the realm of travel and migration, there's been a flurry of interesting developments around the globe. Let's delve into some of the latest happenings.
Firstly, for those who love city exploration, podiatrists and shoe experts concur that comfortable walking shoes are a necessity. A good pair of shoes can make all the difference when navigating city streets, especially over long distances.
On the international front, the United States has introduced a new $250 "visa integrity fee" for international visitors, while the European Union has been working on travel fee initiatives. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) fee for non-EU nationals from visa-free countries will increase from 7 to 20 euros (approximately $23), with the goal of funding enhanced border security and operational costs. The ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and is expected to become operational in late 2026.
Meanwhile, the European Union has also announced that the ETIAS fee will apply to travelers from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and others. This fee is intended to bring fees in line with other travel authorization programs.
In a more unexpected turn of events, China is encouraging its population to abandon the "stand right, walk left" practice on escalators and adopt a safer alternative. This change aims to prevent collisions and improve safety for all users.
Switching gears, some are finding happiness and new opportunities in unexpected places. Linda Leaming moved from the United States to the Kingdom of Bhutan and found love and happiness, stating that moving to Bhutan taught her to live mindfully. Similarly, Janet Blaser, originally from New York, relocated from California to Mexico and started a magazine business, eventually becoming a permanent resident and feeling she had succeeded. A retired US veteran, Christopher Boris, moved from Maryland to Brazil to establish friendships and escape the rising cost of living.
In the world of aviation, the de Havilland DH106 1A Comet was the world's first passenger jet, and Budaörs, a Bauhaus airport in Budapest, continues to operate continuously since 1937, serving as an aviation time capsule.
However, not all aviation news is positive. The world's first airplane hijacking took place on the Miss Macao seaplane in 1948, with the goal of robbing the passengers and holding them for ransom.
Lastly, for those who enjoy keeping up with the latest travel news, CNN Travel offers a weekly newsletter with updates about destinations, aviation, food and drink, and accommodations. And for those seeking a guide to navigating the complexities of modern-day travel, a guide to taking off your clothes in the 21st century is available to read.
[1] Source: ETIAS Fee for Non-EU Nationals to Increase [2] Source: ETIAS Implementation Delayed Until Late 2026 [3] Source: ETIAS Fee for US Citizens Explained [4] Source: ETIAS Fee for Non-EU Nationals Explained
- In the realm of finance, the increase of the ETIAS fee from 7 to 20 euros for non-EU nationals is a significant development, aimed at funding enhanced border security and operational costs. [Source: ETIAS Fee for Non-EU Nationals to Increase]
- For those interested in lifestyle and self-development, stories about people finding happiness and new opportunities in unexpected places can serve as inspiration. [Source: n/a]
- In the realm of technology and innovation, China is encouraging its population to adopt a safer practice on escalators, aiming to prevent collisions and improve safety for all users. [Source: n/a]
- For those keen on staying updated on general news, especially travel news, CNN Travel offers a weekly newsletter with updates about destinations, aviation, food and drink, and accommodations. [Source: n/a]