Travel General Archives - Page 36 of 139

The $250 Visa Integrity Fee: Who Pays, Who Benefits, and What It Means for Your Next Trip

July 31, 2025 by James Clendenin

A controversial new fee has been added to the cost of visiting America.

In a significant but controversial shift in U.S. travel policy, a new $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” has been implemented for certain international visitors in 2025. This new charge, which is separate from the standard visa application fee, has been met with a mix of praise from security advocates and fierce opposition from the travel industry, which fears it will deter visitors.

For travelers and their families, it represents a significant new hurdle to visiting the United States, and understanding it is key.

Cruise Safety Concerns Rise After Violent Incident Aboard Royal Caribbean Ship

July 30, 2025 by James Clendenin

A viral video has shattered the image of a carefree family vacation.

The carefully curated image of a cruise as a safe and idyllic family vacation has been rocked by a recent, violent incident aboard a Royal Caribbean ship. A massive, multi-family brawl that was captured on video and went viral has sparked a wave of public concern about the reality of safety and security on these floating cities. The incident has left many questioning the industry’s ability to control its passengers.

This is a look at the key concerns that have emerged in the wake of this disturbing event.

6 Reasons Why Airports Are Going Full Throttle as TSA Passes Historic Passenger Numbers

July 30, 2025 by James Clendenin

The travel boom is here to stay, and the numbers are staggering.

The post-pandemic travel boom has not been a temporary blip; it has become a sustained and powerful force that is reshaping the travel industry. In the summer of 2025, the Transportation Security Administration has been reporting historic, record-breaking passenger numbers, with airports across the country consistently busier than they were even before the pandemic. This is not just a return to normal; it’s a new, supercharged era of travel.

This incredible surge is being driven by a powerful combination of economic, social, and cultural factors that have aligned to create a perfect storm of demand.

The 7 Countries Where American Tourists Keep Disappearing (And Why)

July 30, 2025 by James Clendenin

These beautiful destinations have a darker, more dangerous side.

The vast majority of international trips are perfectly safe, but in a handful of popular destinations, a disturbing pattern of American tourists vanishing has emerged. These are not cases of travelers in active war zones; these are disappearances that occur in countries known for their beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultures. The reasons are often a complex mix of opportunistic crime, treacherous natural environments, and a sometimes-ineffective local law enforcement response.

Understanding the specific risks in these countries is crucial for any traveler venturing off the beaten path.

Why Middle-Class Families Can’t Afford Disney World Anymore (The Real Numbers)

July 30, 2025 by James Clendenin

The “happiest place on earth” now comes with a profoundly unhappy price tag.

A family trip to Disney World has long been a cherished part of the American middle-class experience, a rite of passage for parents and children alike. In 2025, however, that dream is slipping out of reach for a huge portion of the country. A series of deliberate price hikes, the elimination of free perks, and the introduction of new upcharges have transformed a once-attainable family vacation into a luxury expense.

For a typical middle-class family, the real numbers involved in a Disney trip are no longer magical; they are heartbreaking.