Reveling in the sun-soaked landscapes south of the border may come with a heftier price tag for cruise ship visitors to Mexico starting next year. The Mexican government is set to introduce a $42 immigration surcharge for each passenger arriving via cruise liners. According to the Associated Press, this fee will be levied on all passengers, irrespective of whether they choose to disembark or remain aboard the vessel. The new legislation mandates that Mexico's Immigration Institute will issue a "group visa to every individual on the ship's manifest." This development has raised concerns among several tourism organizations.

The Australian outback, a vast expanse of deserts and semi-arid wilderness, is a testament to the untamed beauty of our planet. It is a land that covers approximately 80% of Australia's interior, an area so immense it could swallow Texas seven times over. Here, the elements are unyielding, with temperatures swinging wildly between day and night, and the landscape is so inhospitable that it is largely forsaken by mankind. Yet, within this wilderness lies a treasure trove of natural wonders, from the expansive blue skies that seem to stretch on forever to sunsets that paint the horizon for what feels like an eternity, offering some of the most breathtaking scenes on Earth.

On a Saturday shrouded in the tempestuous embrace of the elements, the northern Greek metropolis of Thessaloniki unveiled its long-awaited metro system, a beacon of modernity amidst the gusty winds and rain. The city, steeped in history and tradition, welcomed this new chapter with open arms, as its citizens, undeterred by the inclement weather, formed eager queues outside the stations, their anticipation palpable as they awaited their first journey on the autonomous trains.

When considering global holiday hotspots, Thailand stands out as a top destination. Reports indicate that it has already welcomed around 26 million international visitors this year, with 2025 poised to be even more bustling. This Southeast Asian gem is renowned for its picturesque beaches, delectable cuisine, pulsating nightlife, and sacred temples. However, it's also notorious for its crowds. Over time, Thai authorities have attempted to mitigate the impact on its natural wonders by periodically shutting down popular national parks to allow for recovery.

In the wake of the US presidential election, a palpable restlessness has swept across the nation, igniting a fervent desire among Americans to seek solace and sanctuary beyond their borders. The winds of change have carried with them a surge in the quest for new horizons, as the allure of foreign lands beckons with promises of respite and rejuvenation. "It's been such a gut reaction of, 'I want to move, but I don't know where, and I don't know how,'" echoes Arielle Tucker, a Switzerland-based certified financial planner, whose expertise in guiding US citizens through the labyrinth of international relocation has been in high demand.

Europe's mainland, particularly its northern reaches, exudes a festive allure that is unmatched. The wintry weather and Gothic architecture create an ambiance that is perfect for those yearning for a quintessential winter escape. Here are some of the European destinations that celebrate Christmas with unparalleled enthusiasm. Vienna, the picturesque capital of Austria, radiates holiday spirit as the year draws to a close. The towering Christmas tree and the well-known Christmas market outside the majestic Rathaus, Vienna's City Hall, are must-see attractions. However, the Spittelberg market adds an extra layer of festive delight. This market, nestled in the streets of the Biedermeier Quarter, offers exquisite handcrafted items and hand-knitted sweaters. Visitors can savor a warm gluhwein while strolling leisurely, admiring the architecture that seems perfectly suited for the holiday season.

Democracy has ancient roots, and the Lycians, who once governed the southwest region of present-day Turkey, were no strangers to this form of governance. Two millennia ago, they established a democratic federation that would later influence the political framework of the United States. Amidst the current global challenges faced by democracies, a different legacy of the Lycians endures in the Mediterranean—a legacy centered on the concept of death. A drive along the coast reveals the proximity of the deceased to the living, with the Lycians' elaborate tombs etched into cliffs, overlooking towns, valleys, and the sea. These are not the only remnants; grand sarcophagi, likely housing the remains of Lycia's elite, are scattered across the landscape, often seamlessly integrated into the urban environment. For history enthusiasts, seeking out these monuments is an adventure that requires a mix of exploration and historical curiosity. While some tombs are preserved within ticketed archaeological sites, others are open to the public, demanding a level of determination and skill akin to that of an Indiana Jones to uncover.

Nearly five decades after the tragic events that unfolded in Guyana, the nation is considering revisiting its somber past. The United States' Reverend Jim Jones and over 900 of his followers perished in the remote interior of this South American nation, marking one of the most significant acts of mass suicide in modern history. A government-supported tour company is now proposing to open the former commune, now hidden by lush vegetation, to tourists, a move that has reignited old wounds. Critics argue that such a venture would show disrespect to the victims and unearth a distressing chapter of history.

After a five-year restoration process following a catastrophic fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was officially reopened with a grand ceremony on Saturday. The event was attended by a host of global figures, including US President-elect Donald Trump, current US first lady Jill Biden, the world's wealthiest individual Elon Musk, and Britain's Prince William, who joined French President Emmanuel Macron in a celebration that blended Catholic rituals with historical and political significance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who made a last-minute appearance, was given a standing ovation upon his arrival at the cathedral. Approximately 170 bishops from across the globe and priests from all 106 parishes in Paris participated in the event, though Pope Francis was notably absent, opting to send a message instead, which described the reopening as an occasion of "joy, celebration, and praise."

A visit to Rome in 2024 might leave some tourists feeling underwhelmed. The city, renowned for its ancient splendors, has seen many of its treasures obscured by scaffolding due to ongoing extensive renovations. Rome's historic heart has taken on the appearance of a construction zone, with teams laboring day and night on a multitude of infrastructure and preservation initiatives. Traffic, already a challenge, has become even more unbearable. The silver lining is that once these projects are completed, the Eternal City is poised to reveal itself more resplendently, with an upgraded metro system that will swiftly transport visitors to key attractions. However, with the year-long Roman Catholic jubilee, anticipated to draw up to 35 million visitors, just around the corner, a significant portion of the restoration efforts remain incomplete.

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, countless Americans will embark on air travel, seeking innovative strategies to simplify their journeys. One such tip that frequently surfaces on social media platforms like TikTok is the art of carrying a full bottle of water through US airport security. The solution is straightforward: freeze the water beforehand. Surprisingly, this method is not only allowed but also endorsed by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA). A TSA spokesperson clarified via email, "Frozen liquid items are permitted through the checkpoint as long as they are completely frozen at the time of screening." They further explained, "If the frozen items are partially melted, slushy, or contain any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquid rule." This rule stipulates that passengers can carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers not exceeding 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters, all of which must fit into a single quart-sized bag.

Embarking on a journey in the premium cabin of an Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger aircraft, is typically an experience marked by its quiet ambiance and expansive comfort. British Airways is poised to elevate this luxury experience even further with the unveiling of a new first-class airplane seat design, scheduled to debut on its A380 fleet in 2026. This innovative design signifies a positive shift for the world's largest passenger aircraft, which had faced the prospect of being permanently retired by several carriers just a few years ago due to evolving aviation market dynamics.

In the verdant hills of Negros Occidental, amidst the Philippines' emerald highlands, there stands an edifice that is as whimsical as it is colossal. This is no ordinary structure; it is the world's largest chicken-shaped building, a testament to the imagination and the indomitable spirit of its creator, Ricardo Cano Gwapo Tan. A septuagenarian with a heart as vast as the sky and a playful twinkle in his eye, Tan has crafted a legacy that is as grand as it is peculiar, a six-story, 35-meter high homage to the humble chicken.

For aficionados of coffee who are also intrigued by the enigmatic lifestyle within the world's most isolated nation, a unique opportunity awaits: a Starbucks location that offers a panoramic view of North Korea. The American coffeehouse chain has opened a new branch in South Korea, situated atop an observation deck near the demarcation line with North Korea, providing visitors with the chance to enjoy their beverages while gazing across the Imjingang River at the elusive neighboring country. This exclusive 30-seat café is nestled within the Aegibong Peace Ecopark in Gimpo city, a mere 20 miles to the north of Seoul, the bustling capital. It is in close proximity to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), recognized as one of the most heavily fortified borders globally.

Once upon a time, the only glimpse of the royal family's Christmas festivities was through the television screen during the monarch's annual address. However, the landscape has evolved, and many royal residences are embracing the holiday spirit by inviting the public to partake in a variety of seasonal events. This initiative is part of King Charles' effort to increase accessibility and revenue generation for these historical estates. This year, unprecedented public tours were granted to new sections of Buckingham Palace and Balmoral Castle. This winter, exclusive guided tours are being offered at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Nestled amidst the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs, attracting luxury-seekers from around the globe. However, the cost of bidding this paradise farewell has just surged. As of December 1st, the exit fees for passengers departing the Maldives by air are set to quadruple. The departure tax is tiered according to the class of service on their outbound flight. For economy class travelers, the fee will rise to $50, up from the previous $30; business class passengers will now pay $120, a leap from $60; first class will incur a $240 charge, up from $90; and private jet fliers will face a hefty $480 per person, more than trebling the previous $120. Importantly, this tax applies uniformly to all non-Maldivian visitors, irrespective of age or nationality, and is not dependent on the flight's duration, meaning the cost remains the same whether one is embarking on a short flight to Delhi or a lengthy journey to London.

For many, the mere mention of Greenland conjures images of biting cold, endless snow, and a sense of isolation. While the frigid temperatures and pristine snowscapes are likely to remain constants, the perception of remoteness is about to be transformed. As of November 28, the inauguration of a new international airport in the capital city of Nuuk marks a significant shift, making Greenland more accessible than ever before.

Amidst the deafening roar of enthusiastic spectators, the pulsating rhythm of chants, and the thunderous beats of taiko drums, throngs of participants heave colossal wooden structures through the bustling streets of Osaka. This frenetic scene is part of the region's "danjiri matsuri," or float festivals, a series of events that unfold over several weeks in October. These festivals are renowned for their exhilarating yet perilous nature, earning a reputation as some of the most hazardous celebrations on Japan's festival calendar.

Ah, the festive market—a beacon of joy and warmth in the heart of winter, a place where the Christmas spirit dances in the crisp air and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the senses. As the holiday season unfurls its twinkling lights and evergreen boughs, we turn our gaze to the globe's most enchanting Christmas markets, each a treasure trove of tradition and delight.

In the vibrant tapestry of global travel, this week's news unfolds with a flourish of excitement and discovery. Disney has unveiled its latest cruise liner, a floating palace of enchantment that promises to transport its guests to the heart of their dreams. As the holiday season draws near, the air is filled with festive cheer and a plethora of holiday ideas that cater to every traveler's whims and fancies. But beyond the glitz and glamour of new attractions, we delve into the essence of what makes a city truly great, as captured in the 2025 World’s Best Cities report.