New Zealand is making a bold move to attract remote workers, digital nomads and influencers by relaxing its visitor visa rules. The policy, introduced in 2025, allows travelers to work remotely for foreign employers while visiting the country for up to 90 days, with possible extensions of up to nine months.

The government sees this as a way to revitalize tourism, stimulate local economies and adapt to the global shift toward flexible work. After years of economic pressure and slow recovery following the pandemic, officials hope that longer stays, higher spending and year-round tourism flows will strengthen the country’s visitor economy and support sustainable growth.

The initiative also positions New Zealand alongside more than 50 countries now competing for remote workers, but with a distinct emphasis on nature, culture and high-quality living.

A New Strategy to Boost Tourism and Attract Global Talent

The updated visa framework aims to draw remote workers who can contribute to the economy without competing for local jobs. Digital nomads, content creators and high-skilled professionals are among the target groups, particularly those from the U.S. and East Asia.

Officials have emphasized that remote workers spend more per trip than traditional short-term visitors, often choosing extended stays that support local businesses, hospitality providers and regional attractions. This policy shift is designed to encourage that type of tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s landscapes and lifestyle while continuing their work routines.

Beyond economic gains, New Zealand sees cultural and reputational advantages. The move reinforces the nation’s identity as a destination where natural beauty and modern flexibility coexist. Visitors can hike alpine trails, explore wineries or work from a lakeside cottage, all while maintaining their careers abroad.

Government leaders frame the policy as a way to bring “super-talented people” through the arrival gates, broadening New Zealand’s global connections and encouraging long-term engagement with the country.

While critics argue that the initiative lacks detailed projections and may present double standards compared to domestic remote work restrictions, the government maintains that the benefits outweigh potential risks.

Supporting Regional Development and Long-Term Tourism Growth

The policy’s impact is expected to reach far beyond major cities like Auckland and Wellington. Remote workers are likely to spend extended time in regions such as Southland, Taranaki and the Bay of Islands, helping spread tourism demand more evenly across the country.

This could reduce pressure on traditional hotspots like Queenstown and Rotorua while supporting the development of local infrastructure, including co-working spaces, long-stay accommodations and improved internet access.

Additionally, New Zealand’s approach aligns closely with its broader sustainability goals. Longer stays reduce the environmental footprint associated with rapid-fire tourism and encourage deeper engagement with local communities.

Flexible, extended travel also supports a more resilient tourism economy – one that is less dependent on peak seasons and better positioned to adapt to global changes in work and lifestyle.

As remote work continues to evolve, New Zealand’s updated visitor visa rules place the country at the forefront of destinations offering a blend of work-life balance, natural beauty and meaningful travel experiences.

A new collaboration between ThirdHome and Anantara Vacation Club (AVC) is reshaping what luxury vacation ownership can look like.

The two brands have formed a three-year global exchange partnership designed to give AVC’s top-tier Points Owners access to thousands of premium homes, villas and private residences around the world.

With travel expectations rising across Asia and demand for exclusive, private stays accelerating, the agreement marks a strategic move that benefits both networks. Eligible AVC members will be able to book stays within ThirdHome’s curated portfolio, valued at nearly USD $46.8 billion, beginning in the first quarter of 2026.

For many travelers in the region, this partnership signals a meaningful expansion of choice, flexibility and international reach.

Exclusive Global Access for AVC Points Owners

Under the agreement, Anantara Vacation Club’s elite members – including Diamond, Emerald, Platinum, Sapphire, Prestige and Royal Club Points Owners – will receive priority entry into ThirdHome’s upscale exchange platform.

This includes access to properties such as coastal villas, mountain retreats, contemporary city residences and architect-designed second homes in highly desirable destinations. The collection spans iconic leisure markets across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, North America and Europe, offering new levels of luxury beyond the traditional vacation ownership model.

The brands describe the partnership as a natural alignment. Both emphasize high-quality travel, exceptional home standards and curated experiences rather than volume-based accommodation.

For AVC members, the opportunity to stay in rare and private properties significantly broadens the range of premium travel options available under their membership.

The partnership elevates the vacation ownership experience by allowing members to move between both networks with greater ease, experiencing a diverse selection of global homes that match their expectations for privacy, comfort and exclusivity.

ThirdHome’s leadership highlights that AVC’s member base is a strong fit with the platform’s philosophy, particularly as travel demand among affluent Asian travelers continues to grow.

Meanwhile, AVC reinforces that its members increasingly value meaningful choices and memorable stays that go beyond conventional resort accommodations, making the expanded portfolio especially appealing.

A Strategic Expansion Across Asia

Beyond member benefits, the partnership plays an important strategic role for ThirdHome. As interest in luxury second-home travel continues to surge across Asia, the agreement strengthens ThirdHome’s presence in key regional markets.

By closely integrating with Anantara Vacation Club, the platform aims to introduce more Asian destinations into its global exchange network – from beach villas in Thailand to private homes in Japan, Bali and other high-demand leisure regions. This broadens the selection for members seeking both long-haul international itineraries and nearby escapes within the Asia-Pacific region.

For AVC Points Owners, the partnership brings new access to properties across Asia and beyond, aligning with the growing desire for unique, high-end stays that reflect local culture and design.

ThirdHome members also benefit, gaining expanded reach into Asia’s most desirable destinations and enjoying more choice than ever before. Together, the two organizations are setting a new benchmark for luxury vacation exchange, combining curated experiences with a global network of premium homes.

KuCoin Pay has launched KuCoin Pay Travel, a new platform designed to bring cryptocurrency directly into global travel planning. Built in partnership with Entravel, an AI-powered and crypto-native travel provider, the service gives KuCoin’s more than 40 million users access to over 2.2 million hotels worldwide.

The launch emphasizes convenience, competitive pricing and a broader vision of using digital assets beyond trading environments. For travelers increasingly looking for flexible and modern payment options, the platform positions crypto as a practical tool rather than a niche technology.

One of the defining features of KuCoin Pay Travel is its hotel savings, with discounts of up to 60 percent across budget, mid-range and luxury properties. These rates come from Entravel’s exclusive members-only inventory, which is typically unavailable through mainstream booking sites.

By offering this level of pricing transparency and value, the platform appeals to travelers seeking both affordability and premium experiences. Support for more than 50 cryptocurrencies further enhances flexibility, allowing seamless, borderless payments without the usual concerns of currency exchange, foreign transaction fees or payment limitations.

The introduction of KuCoin Pay Travel also expands KuCoin Pay’s role within global commerce. What began as a crypto payment solution is now positioned as a gateway into real-world spending, from retail and digital purchases to experiences like hotel stays.

This evolution reflects a wider trend in travel technology where fintech and crypto solutions are becoming more integrated into everyday travel decisions. For travelers frequently moving between countries, being able to book and pay without friction adds a level of convenience that traditional systems sometimes struggle to match.

KuCoin’s leadership highlighted the significance of making crypto more useful in daily life. By connecting digital assets to something as tangible as travel, the company aims to demonstrate the practical value of cryptocurrency beyond speculation.

Travelers can use their preferred tokens for convenience or take advantage of exclusive savings, creating a more personalized booking experience. The emphasis on a secure and compliant ecosystem also reinforces KuCoin’s commitment to user protection, which remains central to broader crypto adoption.

Entravel’s involvement adds additional credibility, as the company has built its reputation around private hotel pricing and crypto travel infrastructure. By integrating its system into KuCoin Pay Travel, millions of users gain access to insider-level rates that traditionally remain behind membership walls. With hotel prices rising globally, these discounts create a compelling incentive for crypto users looking to stretch their travel budgets without compromising on quality.

As digital payments evolve and the travel sector continues modernizing, KuCoin Pay Travel positions itself at the intersection of both trends. By offering broad hotel inventory, exclusive pricing and effortless crypto payments, the platform stands to become a useful tool for travelers seeking smarter, more flexible ways to book their stays.

It also marks a notable step in bringing crypto further into real-world experiences, influencing how travelers may plan and pay for their trips in the years ahead.

Air Canada is preparing for a major boost to its transatlantic network in Summer 2026, unveiling new non-stop routes from Montréal, Toronto and Halifax to several destinations across Europe.

The airline continues to grow its international footprint, responding to rising demand for convenient long-haul travel and strengthening connections between Canada and important European regions.

With new flights to Berlin, Nantes, Ponta Delgada and Brussels, as well as the return of seasonal service to Tel Aviv, Air Canada is positioning itself as one of North America’s leading carriers for travel across the Atlantic.

These additions follow earlier expansion announcements that introduced flights to Palma de Mallorca, Catania, Shanghai and Budapest, reinforcing the airline’s long-term strategy of broadening its global access and offering passengers more choice.

New Routes Strengthen Transatlantic Access for Canadian Travelers

The expansion introduces a diverse mix of destinations, each offering travelers distinctive cultural and leisure experiences. From Montréal, Air Canada will launch non-stop flights to Berlin and Nantes, both operating three times weekly.

Berlin adds another major European capital to the airline’s network, connecting Montréal travelers to a city known for its creative energy, historic landmarks and modern design. Nantes, located in France’s Loire Valley, offers a gateway to a region celebrated for its châteaux, river landscapes and relaxed French lifestyle.

Together, the two routes broaden access to Western Europe with seasonal flights tailored for both leisure and business travelers.

Toronto will see a new connection to Ponta Delgada in the Azores, offering three weekly flights to São Miguel Island. Known for its dramatic volcanic scenery, hot springs and outdoor adventures, the Azores have become increasingly attractive for travelers seeking nature-driven escapes.

This marks Air Canada’s third destination in Portugal, reflecting strong demand and cultural ties between the two countries. The route will operate seasonally and gives travelers another convenient option for reaching the mid-Atlantic archipelago without connecting through mainland Europe.

Halifax will gain added international reach through a new non-stop route to Brussels, also scheduled three times weekly. As a major political center and home to key European institutions, Brussels provides valuable access for both tourism and business travel. It also serves as a connecting point to a broader European and African network, thanks to partnerships within the region.

For Halifax, the new route marks only its second international destination served by Air Canada outside of the United States, complementing the existing service to London Heathrow.

In addition to new routes, Air Canada will resume its seasonal Montréal–Tel Aviv service in Summer 2026. Operating aboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, this route offers a long-haul option for travelers heading to one of the Middle East’s most dynamic cities. Combined with other recently announced routes, these additions contribute to a transatlantic network that will connect Canada to more than 126 global destinations next summer.

Together, the Summer 2026 schedule represents a significant expansion of Air Canada’s international offering. The new routes not only enhance convenience but also support tourism, economic ties and cultural exchange between Canada and key global regions.

As travel demand continues to grow, Air Canada’s increased presence across Europe and beyond positions the airline for a strong season ahead.

Winter 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest cold-season travel periods in years.

According to Tripadvisor’s Winter Travel Index, 60 percent of travelers are planning at least one trip, and nearly half say they’ll travel more this winter than last year. Bookings are already up by 45 percent year-over-year, reflecting a surge in demand for both classic winter sunshine trips and cultural urban getaways.

Cost still plays a major role in planning, but travelers appear increasingly willing to invest in experiences, with more than half expecting to spend more on travel than last winter.

The season’s trends reveal clear generational differences, strong interest in longer stays, and a mix of familiar favorites and fast-rising destinations.

Winter Travel Trends

Trip Frequency and Budget Priorities

Most travelers plan one or two trips this winter, with 54 percent choosing stays of five nights or more. Cost remains the top consideration across all age groups, yet confidence in travel spending remains high, with 52 percent expecting to spend more than last year.

Experience-Driven Travel

Travelers are placing a strong emphasis on activities. Ninety-three percent consider experiences an essential part of their travel budget, and 84 percent say planned activities shape their itinerary.

Cultural sightseeing leads at 38 percent, followed closely by nature-focused trips at 37 percent, with shopping and road trips also popular.

Generational Differences

Generational preferences continue to diverge. Relaxation is a top priority for Boomers and Gen X at 51 percent, while only 37 percent of Gen Z places rest at the top of their list.

Gen Z travelers are far more interested in meeting new people, at 24 percent compared to just 11 percent of Boomers. Younger travelers also tend to plan more active itineraries, often visiting multiple cities in a single trip.

Domestic Winter Destinations

Top Domestic Cities

Across global markets, the leading winter destinations for domestic travel include New York City, Las Vegas, London and Key West.

These cities continue to attract travelers seeking a mix of experiences, from holiday events to nightlife and warm-weather escapes.

Year-Over-Year Domestic Growth Leaders

Several destinations are seeing notable rises in domestic interest this winter. New York City and Key West lead the list, followed by Hamburg and Anaheim, both experiencing a strong increase in bookings.

U.S. Traveler Favorites

For U.S. travelers specifically, the most popular domestic destinations are New York City, Las Vegas, Orlando and Key West. The combination of entertainment, attractions and winter sunshine continues to make these cities top picks.

International Winter Destinations

Global Favorites

Internationally, London, Bangkok, Cancun and Paris rise to the top. This mix illustrates the season’s two dominant travel styles: classic winter sun and culture-rich cities.

Rising International Destinations

Travelers are also showing strong interest in emerging hotspots. Prague, Shanghai, Mecca and Nha Trang are among the fastest-growing destinations this year.

U.S. Travelers Abroad

American travelers overwhelmingly choose warm, tropical destinations during the winter months. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas and Bavaro lead the list, driven by easy access, resort options and reliable sunshine.

Lufthansa is approaching a major milestone as it prepares to celebrate 100 years since the founding of the original airline in 1926. To mark the occasion, the company is rolling out a dedicated anniversary fleet, giving several aircraft a distinctive centenary livery.

The design features a deep blue fuselage paired with an enlarged white crane, a symbol closely tied to the airline’s history. A subtle “100” appears on one side of the aircraft, while the “1926 / 2026” marking on the other side creates a visual bridge across the past century. The project blends heritage and modern styling, setting the stage for the anniversary year.

The lineup includes six aircraft from key sub-fleets, offering a balanced snapshot of Lufthansa’s long-haul and short-haul operations. The first to arrive will be a new Boeing 787-9 named Berlin, expected to land in Frankfurt this winter.

Joining it over time will be an Airbus A380, an Airbus A350-1000, an Airbus A350-900, an Airbus A320, and a Boeing 747-8. Each will be repainted progressively, with the full anniversary fleet set to be completed by fall 2026. For aviation enthusiasts, the variety of aircraft types ensures broad visibility across major routes and destinations.

The Anniversary Fleet and Broader Passenger Expectations

While the centenary livery is visually engaging, it debuts at a moment when passengers continue to watch for clarity on Lufthansa’s long-term cabin plans. The much-discussed Allegris product, designed to introduce a new generation of seating and onboard comfort, has faced several delays.

As a result, business class remains inconsistent across the fleet, and first class is limited to a small number of aircraft without a clearly defined future path. These gaps have created a contrast between the strong visual message of the anniversary project and the uneven experience some travelers encounter onboard.

The commemorative fleet highlights the airline’s confidence in its brand identity, but it also brings renewed attention to the need for more stability and transparency in product development. Passengers increasingly expect modern cabins, predictable seating layouts, and a high level of comfort that matches premium positioning.

While the livery celebrates a century of aviation history, many travelers hope the next chapter will focus just as much on delivering a cohesive and contemporary onboard experience.

Still, special liveries hold a strong place in aviation culture, connecting the past and present in a way that resonates with travelers. As these six aircraft enter service through 2026, they will become recognizable symbols of the airline’s milestone year.

If paired with steady progress on cabin upgrades, the centenary celebration could mark not only a historic moment, but also a meaningful period of renewal for Lufthansa.

The construction of a 182 meter glass elevator at Bali’s Kelingking Beach has been officially halted and ordered for demolition following a series of regulatory and environmental violations.

The project, which aimed to offer easier access down the steep cliff to the famous beach, quickly became one of the most contentious developments in Nusa Penida. Authorities confirmed that the structure, already roughly 70 percent complete, will be dismantled within six months, and the surrounding area must be restored within three months after demolition is finished.

Kelingking Beach is renowned for its dramatic landscape and sweeping views of a cliff often compared to a T-rex silhouette. For years, visitors have navigated a steep and physically demanding trail to reach the shoreline.

The elevator was promoted as a safer alternative for tourists, offering a quick ride down the cliff and dedicated photo stops along the way. Construction began in 2023 and included a glass shaft, a restaurant built into the rock, a ticketing area, and a flyover linking the entrance to the lift.

But as the structure grew, so did public concern, especially once images of the elevator cutting through the cliff began circulating widely on social media.

The Bali Provincial Government later confirmed that the developer, PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group, had moved forward without completing the required permits.

After a multi-agency investigation, authorities identified five major violations, spanning spatial planning rules, environmental regulations, licensing requirements, marine spatial planning laws, and standards for culture-based tourism. These findings gave the government full authority to halt the project and order its removal.

Local officials expressed strong concern about the project’s impact on the surrounding environment, noting that sections of the cliff had already undergone irreversible alteration. The site sits within a sensitive coastal area that requires strict oversight for any development.

The investigation also revealed overlapping jurisdictional issues, with different parts of the project falling under different branches of local and provincial government. This complexity contributed to delays in recognizing the extent of the violations, raising broader questions about oversight and coordination.

Community reaction has been intense. Residents, environmental groups, and long-time visitors to Bali voiced frustration that the project advanced so far before being stopped. Many argue that Kelingking Beach is one of the island’s most iconic natural landmarks and should not be compromised by large scale construction.

While the developer had billed the elevator as a solution for improving safety and managing crowds, critics countered that its presence fundamentally altered the landscape and risked increasing long term erosion.

The demolition order now turns attention toward how effectively the cliffside can be restored. Early reports suggest that some damage may be permanent, but authorities insist on a full restoration effort.

The outcome will influence ongoing discussions about tourism development in Bali, where natural beauty remains central to the island’s global identity yet continues to face pressure from rapid growth.

Disneyland Paris is entering a bold new chapter with the debut of Disney Adventure World, officially opening on March 29, 2026.

The reimagined second park represents one of the most ambitious transformations in the resort’s history, nearly doubling its size and introducing a wave of new attractions, themed landscapes, dining experiences, and entertainment offerings.

The expansion is anchored by World of Frozen, an immersive land that brings the kingdom of Arendelle to life, alongside a grand new promenade, Adventure Way, and a massive new lake that will host an all-new nighttime spectacular.

The destination will deliver an elevated level of storytelling, breathing new life into more than 90% of the park since its original 2002 opening.

World of Frozen: A Landmark Addition

The centerpiece of the expansion is World of Frozen, a richly themed environment inspired by the beloved Frozen films. Guests will explore Arendelle’s Nordic-style village square, framed by the towering North Mountain and Elsa’s Ice Palace shimmering above the skyline.

The land’s major attraction, Frozen Ever After, invites families on a scenic boat ride through iconic moments from the films, complete with advanced Audio-Animatronics and immersive projection effects. Visitors will also have the chance to enjoy “A Celebration in Arendelle,” a daytime show performed on Viking longships in Arendelle Bay.

Inside Arendelle Castle, guests can meet Anna and Elsa during a Royal Encounter, while younger visitors will delight in spontaneous character interactions throughout the village, including the debut of Rúna, a baby troll companion.

Dining arrives in the form of Nordic Crowns Tavern, a quick-service venue, and exclusive merchandise awaits at Arendelle Boutique. Completing the atmosphere is a new musical score composed by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, created specifically for this groundbreaking land.

After nightfall, the adjacent Adventure Bay will host “Disney Cascade of Lights,” a monumental 360-degree nighttime spectacular featuring drones, choreographed fountains, water screens, pyrotechnics, and an original 40-minute soundtrack recorded at Abbey Road Studios.

Adventure Way and Beyond

Beyond Arendelle, guests can explore Adventure Way, a vibrant new promenade lined with lush themed gardens, character encounters, and an impressive array of new dining options.

Fourteen food and beverage locations will debut, including La Terrasse Panoramique, serving hearty bread bowls and cozy beverages, and Café Luminosity, offering creative hot dog recipes and sweet treats. Mobile carts and chalets will provide whimsical snacks such as filled brioche rolls and desserts inspired by Disney Princesses.

The promenade’s gardens draw inspiration from Disney and Pixar classics: Tangled Garden brings a romantic atmosphere, while Toy Story Garden features playful topiaries shaped like iconic toys.

The Gazebo Garden offers an English-style retreat anchored by bronze statues of beloved characters such as Winnie the Pooh and Peter Pan. The area will also host seasonal entertainment throughout the year, from Rapunzel and Flynn’s musical spring encounter to Miguel’s Latin Festival in the fall.

Visitors will discover the first bar ever located inside a Disneyland Paris park – an elegant lounge adorned in royal blue with gold accents and artwork highlighting Disney Princess animal companions. The space connects to an adjoining table-service restaurant, both overlooking Adventure Bay and offering prime views of the nighttime show.

Looking ahead, Disney Adventure World will continue expanding. A new land inspired by The Lion King is already under construction, featuring a major water-based attraction enhanced with next-generation Audio-Animatronics and classic songs from the 1994 film. Adventure Way will also welcome a family-friendly flying carousel inspired by Pixar’s Up.

Disney Adventure World marks a monumental evolution for Disneyland Paris, promising deeper storytelling, richer immersion, and new adventures for guests of every generation as the resort steps into an exciting new era.

Renewed tensions over bus access have once again disrupted travel to Machu Picchu, Peru’s most visited archaeological site, leaving hundreds of tourists stranded and prompting emergency evacuations.

Recent protests and blockades in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to the ruins, forced authorities to clear the railway line and organize special train departures for roughly 1,400 visitors.

The conflict centers on a long-running dispute between the established bus operator Consettur and rival firm San Antonio de Torontoy, which was selected to take over the route after Consettur’s three-decade license expired. Legal challenges have prevented the new operator from beginning service, fueling uncertainty at one of South America’s most iconic destinations.

The 20-minute bus journey from Aguas Calientes to the mountaintop ruins transports about 4,500 passengers daily and remains essential for nearly all visitors. With no direct road access, travelers must first take an expensive two-to-three-hour train into the town, then pay separately for the shuttle bus or attempt a steep two-hour climb on foot.

When protestors blocked the railway in September, authorities intervened to remove rocks from the tracks and evacuate tourists by special trains.

Community tensions have intensified around the licensing decision. Some locals argue that Consettur has held a monopoly over a highly profitable route for years, with round-trip bus tickets priced at $24 for foreigners and $15 for Peruvians.

Others say the bidding process that awarded the new contract lacked transparency. Consettur rejects accusations of monopolistic control, emphasizing that it is formed by 12 partner companies and includes the local district council, which owns a 38 percent stake.

The rival operator, however, is based in the wider Urubamba Province, adding fuel to debates about who should benefit from tourism revenue.

Rising Costs and Uneven Benefits for Local Communities

The bus dispute highlights broader frustrations among travelers facing high prices to visit Machu Picchu. Train tickets to Aguas Calientes are among the most expensive in Latin America, starting at $140 for a round trip and climbing to $2,000 for luxury service.

Some visitors express surprise at the multilayered transport system and the added cost of entry tickets, which stand at $57 for adults. Many say the overall cost far exceeds expectations, especially for those not booking through premium guided tours.

Local leaders and residents share concerns about how little revenue stays in the region. According to the mayor of Aguas Calientes, only 10 percent of ticket income remains in the area, while most revenue is managed nationally by the Ministry of Culture.

Vendors and community members argue that despite the volume of tourism, basic needs such as reliable water service, adequate schools, and proper medical facilities remain unmet. For many, the situation underscores how the benefits of Machu Picchu’s global appeal do not evenly reach nearby communities.

Regional tourism officials are calling for systemic reforms, including a unified national approach to managing travel resources and improving the visitor experience.

Proposed ideas include expanding entry points, redesigning visitor flow, and creating dedicated areas for different types of travelers – from spiritual groups to visitors focused on social media. However, Peru’s political instability, including frequent changes in leadership, continues to hinder long-term planning.

As legal challenges continue and tensions simmer, both bus operators say they are open to coexisting once approvals are finalized. Until then, access to Machu Picchu remains fragile, leaving travelers and locals uncertain about future disruptions.