Canada's passport is losing ground; here's why it matter
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Why is Canada's passport losing ground?
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Canada's passport, once among the most powerful in the world, has slipped again in global rankings, according to the Henley Passport Index , which measures travel freedom across 199 countries.The latest data places Canada eighth, tied with Estonia and the United Arab Emirates. Canadian passport holders can now travel visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival to 184 destinations out of 227.That marks a drop from seventh place earlier this year, when the figure stood at 188 destinations, and a four-point decline over the past decade.Experts say the ranking change reflects a wider shift in global mobility. A statement from Henley & Partners, which compiles the index, noted that 'traditional mobility champions are losing ground in an increasingly multipolar world.'As countries in Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa open their doors and secure reciprocal agreements, many Western nations are introducing tighter entry requirements.The United States and the United Kingdom have also slipped in the rankings, to 10th and 6th, respectively, despite once topping the list in 2014 and 2015.Singapore remains at the top of the 2025 list, with access to 193 destinations. Japan and South Korea follow with 190. Several European countries, including France and Germany, dominate the next positions.At the bottom end, Afghanistan's passport grants visa-free access to just 25 destinations, underlining stark global inequality in mobility rights.The Canadian passport remains among the strongest globally, but its gradual decline underscores the need for sustained diplomatic engagement. With international travel demand rising by 5.8 percent in early 2025 and Asia-Pacific leading growth at 9.5 percent, competition for travel freedom is expected to intensify.
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The Wire
an hour ago
- The Wire
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE® UNVEILS NEARLY 500 VOYAGES WORLDWIDE DURING PEAK 2027 TRAVEL SEASON
NCL to deploy eight ships in Europe including Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, with 10 embarkation ports, multiple overnight stays & late night departures. With an Expanded Focus on Seven-Day Voyages and Weekend Departures, NCL Delivers Guests MORE Opportunities and Easy Access to Explore the World. MUMBAI (28 July 2025) - Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 58-year history of breaking boundaries, has revealed its Northern Hemisphere spring/summer 2027 deployment – allowing travellers to get ahead on planning their ideal holiday. The season features nearly 500 individual voyages across 20 ships, departing from nearly 30 of the world's top homeports, including Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Southampton, England; Helsinki, Finland; Istanbul, Turkey; Copenhagen, Denmark and Reykjavik, Iceland. From April through October 2027, NCL's spectacular fleet of ships will call to over 150 unique ports across 59 countries delivering immersive itineraries with MORE time in port, including over 170 overnight stays in the most sought-after destinations such as Istanbul, Turkey; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Copenhagen, Denmark. Whether planning a quick escape or longer adventure, the newly opened deployment delivers MORE opportunities for guests to make the most out of the prime travel season. 'With our most expansive deployment yet, we're giving Indian guests even more ways to explore the world—with itineraries now open from 2025 through 2027,' said Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director of NCL APAC. 'From more ways to enjoy an exhilarating Alaska holiday to more seven-day Mediterranean and Northern Europe sailings we're delivering more of what matters to our guests: longer port stays, more overnight calls, more value and greater flexibility to create the perfect cruise holiday.' 'We're proud to be the cruise line of choice for travelers who want MORE out of their vacation – MORE freedom, MORE destinations and MORE unforgettable experiences,' said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. 'Our spring and summer 2027 deployment clearly brings our promise to life, offering something for everyone. Whether guests are hopping between European cities nearly every day, taking in Alaska's natural beauty from ships custom-built to bring the outdoors in, or kicking back on the beach with family and friends at one of our two resort-style destinations, there's no shortage of ways to relax, explore, and create unforgettable memories.' Itinerary highlights from NCL's Northern Hemisphere spring/summer 2027 deployment include: EXPLORE EUROPE WITH MORE SEVEN-DAY VOYAGES, OVERNIGHTS & LATE DEPARTURES NCL will deploy eight ships, including some of the brand's newest and recently renovated vessels, across Europe. Offering mostly seven-day itineraries that begin and end on weekends, guests have the option to sail from 10 popular embarkation ports, including Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; and Reykjavik, Iceland. These port-intensive voyages spend over 90% of their time in port with an average stay of nearly 11 hours and feature multiple overnight stays in cities like Istanbul, Turkey; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Hamburg, Germany, as well as late-night departures from favourites like Santorini, Greece; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Ibiza, Spain, giving guests MORE time to explore Europe's most captivating destinations. In spring/summer 2027, Norwegian Prima® and Norwegian Viva® will return to European waters offering a variety of nine-to-11-day voyages across the continent. Norwegian Viva will sail the Western Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries from June through October from four different homeports: Istanbul, Turkey; Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia) and Ravenna (Venice), Italy. Meanwhile, Norwegian Prima will offer Mediterranean voyages, featuring maiden calls to Dubrovnik and Split, Croatia and Kotor, Montenegro. For the majority of the summer, she will make her return to Northern Europe to operate guest-favorite open-jaw voyages to Iceland and Norway, departing from Southampton, England, and Reykjavik, Iceland. In September and October 2027, Norwegian Prima will close out her Europe season with three Baltic open-jaw sailings, which will also mark her inaugural turnaround in Helsinki, Finland and her maiden call in Riga, Latvia. In addition to its newer and larger ships, NCL strategically deploys its mid-size ships to the region to deliver more intimate, destination-focused voyages allowing guests to explore must-see and lesser-known ports with ease. Aboard Norwegian Sun®, travellers can sail seven-day, port-intensive Mediterranean itineraries with no sea days between May and August 2027 departing for the first time from Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice (Ravenna), Italy. These open-jaw sailings include maiden calls to historic bucket list ports including Corfu, Greece. Moreover, Norwegian Jewel® will return to Europe for a full season for the first time in over a decade, offering seven- and nine-day Baltic voyages between Copenhagen, Denmark and Helsinki featuring first-time visits to Klaipeda, Lithuania; Riga, Latvia; and Gdynia, Poland - ideal for guests seeking to dive into cities that boast Medieval architecture and history as well as modern art, design and culture in Northern Europe. Rounding out the season, Norwegian Epic® will offer NCL's ever-popular seven-day Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, Spain and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy from May through October 2027, providing travellers the opportunity to explore each destination pre- or post-cruise for an extended vacation. Norwegian Dawn® will also offer scenic open-jaw sailings from May through October 2027 between Barcelona, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal, providing even more ways to experience the best of Southern Europe by sea. MORE WAYS TO ENJOY ALASKA ABOARD SHIPS CUSTOM-BUILT FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS With the global rise of 'coolcations,' holidays to cooler climates, Alaska is the prime destination to experience an exhilarating holiday. Commencing in late April, NCL's Alaska season sets sail from Seattle; Whittier, Alaska and Vancouver, British Columbia aboard Norwegian Encore®, Norwegian Bliss® and Norwegian Joy®, each of which were custom-built for the destination with expansive outdoor and indoor spaces to marvel at the natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and the area's rich wildlife as well as Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy will sail seven-day voyages departing each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Seattle's Pier 66. Furthermore, Norwegian Joy will offer longer and more immersive nine- and 10-day voyages from mid-May to mid-June as well as end of August to end of September. Beginning 10 May 2027 through 20 Sept. 2027, Norwegian Jade® will cruise a series of seven-day open-jaw sailings between Vancouver, British Columbia and Whittier, Alaska and feature iconic scenic cruising along Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay on each voyage. Guests aiming to immerse themselves even more in the 'Last Frontier' can add an NCL Cruisetour to their reservation and explore the majestic Denali National Park, take a scenic ride on the historic tracks of the Alaska Railroad or fish halibut and salmon in the cold waters of Kachemak Bay. GUEST FAVOURITE NORWEGIAN SPIRIT TO OFFER EXTENDED SOUTH PACIFIC SEASON Following her 2026/2027 summer season in Australia and New Zealand, Norwegian Spirit® will remain in the Pacific through December 2027, offering a diverse range of open-jaw voyages across Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific, Hawaii and Alaska. The ship will homeport in Sydney, Australia; Lautoka, Fiji; Papeete, French Polynesia and Honolulu, and sailing a total of 11 immersive itineraries across the region. Norwegian Spirit will offer an expansive South Pacific season with a choice of 11- to 13-day voyages, calling to exotic destinations such as New Caledonia, Fiji, the Samoan Islands, French Polynesia, and the Cook Islands. MORE SHORT ESCAPES AND ISLAND-FILLED ADVENTURES WITH THREE- TO 11-DAY CRUISES TO THE CARIBBEAN, BAHAMAS & BERMUDA A standout feature of NCL's Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries is a visit to the company's private island destinations Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line's top-rated port in the Bahamas, and Harvest Caye in Belize. Both islands are featured on nearly every voyage during the spring/summer 2027 season. These destinations deliver a picture-perfect beach experience, complete with pristine shores and turquoise waters, while offering guests even MORE ways to create lasting memories through unique shore excursions and curated island offerings. Beginning in late 2025, Great Stirrup Cay will debut a series of enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience, including a new multi-ship pier that ensures guaranteed access to the island; a convenient tram service for ease; an oversized heated pool perfect for relaxing under the sun; as well as the extension of popular onboard experiences ashore, such as an adult-only retreat with private cabanas, and Horizon Park, a family-friendly recreation area with lawn games and gathering spaces. These updates to NCL's private island come as it's expanding its Caribbean and Bahamas deployment for the spring/summer 2027 season. Guests will have eight ships to choose from including some of the Company's newest, Norwegian AquaTM and Norwegian Viva®, as well as easy access with embarkation ports across Florida. Another popular island destination best enjoyed during the spring and summer is Bermuda, with voyages departing from Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. In 2027, three NCL ships will sail to Bermuda as part of the cruise line's seven-month season, including Norwegian Breakaway®, Norwegian Pearl® and to-soon-be the Company's newest ship – Norwegian Luna®. Running from April through October, guests will have MORE opportunities than ever to experience the island's pink sand beaches, historical sites and lush green golf courses through overnights at the Royal Naval Dockyard on each sailing. Moreover, both Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Pearl will sail Canada & New England itineraries from 29 Aug 2027 to 17 Oct. 2027 calling to the most picturesque ports, including Charlottetown, Canada and Quebec City. Onboard these voyages, guests can savor the picturesque scenery of the Northeast tinted with the changing fall foliage, feast on fresh, local seafood delicacies and enjoy wine tastings at regional wineries and estates. In addition to the newly opened 2027 deployment, NCL cruises to nearly 350 destinations worldwide giving guests the chance to plan and book their upcoming cruise vacation well in advance. For guests looking to elevate their cruise experience, NCL's More At Sea™ is a must. Available across the whole fleet, this all-in-one offering delivers incredible value and includes unlimited premium beverages with brands such as Casamigos Tequila, Woodford Reserve, and Grey Goose Vodka; specialty dining package; high-speed Wi-Fi minutes; and US$50 shore excursion credits at every port. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
US YouTuber Says He Fell Ill Despite Eating At 5-Star Indian Hotels, Internet Says "Weak Immunity, Bro"
Tyler Oliveira, a 25-year-old American YouTuber, has sparked controversy after claiming that he fell ill during a visit to India, despite eating at five-star hotels. Mr Oliveira's admission was in response to an Indian influencer who criticised foreign travellers, particularly white visitors, for allegedly perpetuating negative stereotypes about India. In a video, Twinkle Stanly claimed that these travellers often live in poor conditions, visit unhygienic locations, and then return home to complain about India's supposed shortcomings. She also accused white travellers of "romanticising poverty" in India, living in conditions worse than the country's underprivileged, and later disparaging India as "pathetic." Reacting to her video, Mr Oliveira shared his own experience of falling ill in India, despite staying at five-star hotels. He wrote on X, "During my trip to India, I ONLY ate in 5-star hotels and still contracted 4 types of Salmonella. The hotel sourced their eggs from a filthy chicken farm right next to a literal mountain of trash. There are serious hygiene issues that must be addressed in India. It is NOT racist to address the poor quality of life most Indians are subjected to while the upper caste insulates itself from reality." Responding to a user, he noted that the five-star hotels he stayed at cost around $100 per night, which, while luxurious by Indian standards, was relatively budget-friendly compared to American prices. He also pointed out the stark contrast in wealth within India. See the post here: During my trip to India, I ONLY ate in 5 star hotels and still contracted 4 types of Salmonella. The hotel apparently sourced their eggs from a filthy chicken farm right next to a literal mountain of trash. There are serious hygiene issues that must be addressed in India. It is… — Tyler Oliveira (@tyleraloevera) July 27, 2025 To back up his claim, Mr Oliveira shared his medical reports as proof of his illness. However, his post sparked backlash from Indians who accused him of "defaming" the country. Many criticised him for reducing India's complexities to a single personal health issue, arguing that his experience doesn't define the entire nation. Some users pointed out that similar incidents could occur in 5-star restaurants in other countries, while a few attributed his illness to a sensitive stomach, suggesting that he might be more prone to getting sick regardless of the location. One user wrote, "Look, your salmonella sob story doesn't prove India's got some unique hygiene crisis. Bad eggs can come from anywhere—it happens in the U.S., Europe, you name it. You're acting like five-star hotels in India are uniquely incompetent, but global supply chains are messy everywhere. That "filthy farm" you're whining about? It could just as easily be a shady supplier for a Western hotel. You've got no data, just a grudge." Another said, "You are a liar. I spent a solid two months in India, didn't eat in five-star hotels all the time, nor did I stay in the, and I never contracted anything. I didn't get a single illness, not even a tummy upset." A third wrote, "You're blaming India's hygiene issues for your salmonella while ignoring the fact that five-star hotels anywhere can screw up food safety. You think fancy hotels guarantee clean eggs? Please. Those places cut corners just like anywhere else—sourcing from sketchy farms isn't unique to India. You're cherry-picking a single bad experience to dunk on an entire country's hygiene standards." A fourth added, "Yes, India has hygiene issues, and no one is denying that. But addressing them does not require sweeping generalisations or a tone of superiority. There are respectful ways to talk about a country, especially one as layered and complex as India. Centuries of colonisation not only exploited our resources but also left generations in poverty, stripped basic infrastructure, and forced people into survival over sanitation. We are rebuilding, and there is much more to India than what you saw on your plate."
India.com
6 hours ago
- India.com
This country has no airport, no currency of its own, its prince richer than Britain's kings, locals wealthy enough to not work whole life; not Switzerland, Greece, it is…
Hidden between Switzerland and Austria, there is a tiny European country that most people have never heard of. This country reportedly does not have an airport. Neither does it have its own currency, nor does it have an official national language. However, it is one of the richest countries in the world and one of the safest as well. With its jaw-dropping landscapes, medieval castles, and a crime rate so low that there are currently seven people in the whole country in prison. Sounds fictional! But it's not, it's real. The place is called Liechtenstein. Recently, a video of this surprisingly rich and unexplored place has gained popularity on Instagram, and it has caught the attention of the world. Sharing a post on Instagram, the Instagram page TheSoulConnect with 448K followers wrote, 'Ever heard of Liechtenstein? Most people have not. But this tiny nation tucked between Switzerland and Austria is wildly unique. No airport — you have to fly into another country. No currency — they use the Swiss Franc. No official language of their own — German is borrowed. And yet, it is one of the richest and safest countries on Earth. Liechtenstein proves this: You do not need size, flash, or your own rules to thrive.' The caption provided some insight into Liechtenstein, such as its medieval castles, snowy Alps, and very small population base of only about 30,000. Did you know that Liechtenstein is deemed the richest country in the world, even richer than the British monarch? Here, there is so much prosperity that many people can afford leisure without working for a living, giving them ample discretionary time to devote to whatever they want to do in life. The people of Liechtenstein benefit from low taxes, and the country itself carries no external debt. Respect for one another is the foundation of society, and flaunting wealth is generally considered disrespectful. Crime rates are nearly nonexistent. For that reason, there are only about 100 police officers in Liechtenstein. It's common for people to leave their doors unlocked at night without worry. The post generated immense excitement among travel enthusiasts who were in awe of Liechtenstein's breathtaking landscapes and unique way of life. One person stated, 'I love to live there please guide me.' 'Please guide me would love to live in Lichtenstein,' added another user. A third user wrote, 'Please guide me. Would be very happy to live there.'
