Latest news with #internationaltravel
Wall Street Journal
a day ago
- Wall Street Journal
China's Xi Gives Up Air Miles for More Time at Home
Chinese leader Xi Jinping isn't quite the frequent flier he used to be. People are wondering why. The most well-traveled leader in China's history has reduced his international journeys in recent years, easing a once-packed diplomatic schedule that had honed his reputation as a globe-trotting statesman.
Condé Nast Traveler
5 days ago
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
US Will Begin Charging Some Tourists a $250 ‘Visa Integrity Fee'
'Raising fees on lawful international visitors amounts to a self-imposed tariff on one of our nation's largest exports: international travel spending,' Freeman said. 'These fees are not reinvested in improving the travel experience and do nothing but discourage visitation at a time when foreign travelers are already concerned about the welcome experience and high prices. As Congress begins work on FY26 appropriations, it must … ensure visitor fees are lowered, if not eliminated, wherever possible.' The new fees are being implemented just before the US is set to host major global events like the World Cup in 2026 and the Summer Olympics in 2028, which could throw a huge wrench in the plans of both potential visitors and travel companies. Here's everything travelers need to know about the new $250 fee. Who will need to pay the new visa fee? Any non-immigrant travelers from countries that are not on the US visa waiver list will need to pay the fee in order to enter the US. That means most tourists coming from Africa, Latin America, and South America, as well as select countries in Asia and the Middle East, will be subject to the new $250 levy. Travelers from visa waiver countries who are visiting the US for a reason that requires a special visa will also be required to pay the fee. The fees will apply to all student visas, work visas, and other special visas, including: F-1 and F-2 student visas; J-1 and J-2 exchange visas; H1-b and H-4 temporary work visas, and other employment and visitor categories. What's more: the $250 payment will be charged in addition to other visa fees. That means visitors will need to pay it along with any other reciprocity fees, anti-fraud fees, and 'machine-readable visa' (MRV) application fees, the amounts of which can vary by visa type. Will the fee be reimbursable? The visa integrity fee will not be waivable or reducible. According to Envoy Global, the Department of Homeland Security may potentially reimburse visitors if they fully comply with the terms of their visa by departing the US promptly when their visa authorization period ends, extending their nonimmigrant status, or changing their status to lawful permanent resident. Which countries are exempt? The fee does not apply to tourists from countries who do not need a visa to enter the US. This includes citizens of countries that are part of the US visa waiver program, as well as most travelers from Canada and Bermuda.
Zawya
15-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Global Hotel Alliance reports continued growth in H1 2025 as Q2 momentum supports positive trends
H1 total hotel revenues up 17% year-on-year to $1.5 billion, buoyed by 18% hike in Q2 International stays dominate at 70% of room revenue and grow 21% year-on-year US remains the top feeder market for international stays and overall room revenue GHA portfolio continues global expansion with 48 new properties added in H1 Dubai, UAE: UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance, the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has reported continued growth in the first half of 2025, underpinned by a solid Q2 performance across all key indicators. With hotel revenues, room nights and demand for international travel all building on 2024 momentum, the H1 results set a positive trajectory for the remainder of the year. H1 2025: Revenue growth led by international travel surge Total hotel revenues for H1 2025 (the year to June 30, 2025) climbed to $1.5 billion, a 17% year-on-year increase from $1.3 billion in H1 2024. International stays, the cornerstone of GHA hotel brand activity, accounted for 70% of all room revenue – totalling $810 million – a 21% jump compared to the same period last year. Member's favourite destinations Moving onto the destinations generating the most revenue from members' international stays, the H1 rankings were as follows: the UAE took top slot, followed by Thailand, Spain, Singapore, and Italy. US leads in feeder market stakes, with significant Q2 rebound The US remained the leading international source market for GHA's 850-plus properties around the world, with GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members based in the country generating 15% of all international room revenue in H1. After the US, the top feeder markets were the UK, followed by Germany, China and Australia. Q2 2025: Strong performance supports positive H1 results Q2 delivered steady growth across all KPIs, contributing to the solid first half. Metric improvements of note included an 18% increase in hotel revenues versus Q2 2024 and a 19% increase in room nights, while the stay countries with the highest ADR in Q2 were the Maldives, UK, Japan, and Fiji. The power of the growing GHA network to generate cross-brand revenues was clear as they grew 18% to $94.7 million in Q2, contributing to H1 cross-brand revenues of $188.8 million, up 15% year-on-year. Direct bookings across GHA's digital platforms also surged 19% in H1 2025, helping hotels to reduce their dependence on high-cost third-party channels. A membership milestone for GHA DISCOVERY and D$ spend hits new heights GHA DISCOVERY surpassed the 30-million-member mark in Q2, reaching 30.9 million members thanks to a 16% rise in new enrolments compared to Q2 2024. The programme's innovative rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), also saw exceptional growth in redemptions, which rocketed 61% in Q2 year-on-year. A growing global footprint with close to 50 new hotels added in H1 GHA's expanding portfolio continued to offer GHA DISCOVERY members more choices across new destinations and unique properties, with 48 hotels added in the first half of 2025. New additions came from Cheval Collection and Cinnamon Hotels, which recently joined GHA, further bolstering its presence across Asia and popular destinations in the UK and the Middle East. 'With demand for international travel continuing to rise, our hotel brands are reaping the benefit of belonging to a truly global alliance. GHA DISCOVERY members are travelling further, staying longer, and booking directly, driving hotel profitability across our portfolio,' said Chris Hartley, CEO, Global Hotel Alliance. 'These results reflect the trust members place in GHA DISCOVERY and the strength of collaboration across our expanding network of brands and hotels. Even amid ongoing market uncertainty, the momentum we've built – supported by new brands and hotels joining the alliance – positions us well for a strong and resilient second half of the year.' -Ends- For more information visit Global Hotel Alliance and GHA DISCOVERY. GHA DISCOVERY is complimentary to join, and travellers can sign up online or download the GHA DISCOVERY app and register on their mobile phones. Travellers can also connect with GHA DISCOVERY on Instagram and Facebook. Media contact: Andrea Krenn E: About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 45 brands and 850 hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme – GHA DISCOVERY – provides more than 30 million members with recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7 billion in member hotel revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning. For more information, visit or
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Agoda Reports Rise in Indian Travel to Southeast Asia as Visa Restrictions Ease Across Region
SINGAPORE, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The landscape of international travel for Indian passport holders is undergoing a transformation, courtesy the growing trend of relaxed visa policies across Southeast Asia. This shift is not only breaking down logistical barriers but also encouraging an increase in international travel, particularly to destinations that have recently simplified entry requirements. Data from digital platform Agoda reveals that Indian travellers are responding enthusiastically to these changes. Comparing accommodation searches made on Agoda between July to December 2024 for check-ins between January to May 2025, against the same timeframe a year earlier, Malaysia, Palau, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka — countries with eased visa requirements — have seen a clear rise in interest. Malaysia, which introduced visa-free entry for Indian citizens in 2023, recorded a 47% year-on-year (YoY) increase in accommodation searches. Cities like Langkawi (+118%), Kuala Lumpur (+28%) and Highlands (27%) have seen an increase, indicating renewed enthusiasm for Malaysia's diverse travel offerings. Similarly, the Pacific Island nation of Palau, despite being a lesser-known gem, witnessed a 49% increase in interest, alongside its recent announcement of visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. The Philippines, a long-time favourite for sun-soaked escapes, has also joined the club of visa-friendly destinations for Indians as of April 2025. Agoda has observed an upward trend in accommodation searches among Indian travelers for the Philippines, contributing to a YoY increase of 26%. The cities of Manila (+43%), Palawan (+30%), and Cebu (+25%) are among the top gainers. Finally, Sri Lanka has also seen a 9% overall YoY increase following the country's decision to grant visa-free access to Indian passport holders. Destinations like Mirissa (+31%) and Nuwara Eliya (+16%) suggest Indian tourists are eager to explore beyond familiar favorites such as Colombo and Kandy. Commenting on the trend, Mr. Gaurav Malik, Country Director India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at Agoda, said, "The easing of visa restrictions across Southeast Asia is a welcome move that resonates strongly with Indian travellers. As barriers to entry fall, we're seeing a direct impact on travel interest and planning. This new era of accessibility is helping travellers discover not just tourist-favourites like Malaysia, Philippines and Sri Lanka but also hidden gems like Palau. Agoda remains committed to making travel seamless and affordable, and we're excited to see where this heightened accessibility takes Indian tourists next." With over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, Agoda makes it easier than ever for Indian travelers to explore the world like never before. Adventures can begin at with the best deals available on the Agoda mobile app. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Agoda Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Yahoo
The Rudest Things You Can Do When Visiting Another Country
The experience of COVID lockdowns and border closures over the past couple of years has given many Americans a newfound appreciation for the privilege of international travel. In recent summers, the tourism industry saw a huge rebound in the form of 'revenge travel' to far-off places. Unfortunately, Americans don't have the best reputation as tourists abroad. But that doesn't mean you have to add to the 'ugly American' stereotype as you reenter the international travel game. 'It is imperative to avoid an egocentric view of the world while traveling,' travel blogger Rocky Trifari told HuffPost. 'You should always mind your manners abroad because etiquette can differ from one country to the next.' Though the intricacies and nuances of every culture may feel intimidating, there are some fundamental etiquette principles that can guide each trip. An easy way to approach etiquette abroad is to think about what not to do. With that in mind, we asked etiquette experts and travel professionals to share some common rude behaviors they've observed from tourists in foreign countries and lend their advice for avoiding these faux pas. 'While specific etiquette rules may differ around the world, good manners is universal,' said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and co-host of the 'Were You Raised by Wolves?' podcast. 'Treating people with kindness and respect translates into every language.' 'Do not presume that everyone you encounter will speak English,' said Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. 'Know a few phrases in the local language. Do not speak louder hoping that the other person will suddenly understand you.' Before your trip, try to learn a bit of the local language and customs to ensure a more pleasant experience. 'Whether you're in a restaurant or shop, saying 'thank you' and 'please' in the local language can go a long way,' said Jessica van Dop DeJesus, founder and editor at The Dining Traveler. 'I also love using Google Translate to communicate while traveling. It's a great tool to bridge communication in a foreign country. I recently traveled to Japan, and being able to write what I needed in Japanese at restaurants helped me get around much better.' 'You'll have a better time if you know what to expect, so best to brush up on the local etiquette rules before you set sail,' Leighton said. 'These etiquette rules are definitely not a secret, and there's virtually no corner of the globe that hasn't been covered online somewhere. Just look it up!' You can avoid awkward or frustrating situations by just doing a little research before your trip. 'Learning about a culture's etiquette is part of the fun of travel, and you'll have a richer travel experience if you fully participate,' Leighton added. 'A few fun international tips: Don't cheers with beer in Hungary, be sure to say 'bonjour' when entering a shop in France and always hand out your business card with two hands in Japan.' 'One of the things I see a lot, especially living in Europe, is U.S. citizens speaking loudly on the phone, and the whole restaurant or bar can hear the conversation,' van Dop DeJesus noted. Avoid adding to negative stereotypes about Americans by taking phone calls outside or being mindful of your volume, especially while you're speaking English. Try to avoid making noise in other ways, like slamming car doors or stomping around. 'Practice vocal level control,' Abbott echoed. 'It doesn't matter your age, be it youth to well-seasoned, 'thou shalt not yell' or be obnoxious in any way no matter how tired you are, no matter what 'everybody else is doing,' no matter how much alcohol you've had.' She also urged against drinking too much alcohol in a foreign country. 'This isn't just about turning into that proverbial 'ugly American' but also about the increased risk of turning into just another visiting foreigner victim,' Abbott said, noting that drunk tourists are often targets for petty crime. 'You would do well both in proper etiquette and keeping yourself out of bad situations to dial it back a bit on the alcohol if you're so inclined.' 'Know that tipping varies greatly around the world,' Smith said. 'Some countries thrive on tips while others will find a tip insulting.' If you don't know the tipping protocol in another country, do your research or ask a trusted source to find out the cultural norms before ordering a meal at a restaurant there. Although tipping is standard practice in the U.S., that isn't the case everywhere. 'Under most circumstances, it would be considered rude to pay for a meal without leaving a supplemental tip in the U.S.,' Trifari said. 'In some countries, a tip is only left for exceptional service. It can be a token amount, perhaps one or two dollars in the local currency, if the service is outstanding. In other places, leaving a tip may even be perceived as offensive.' 'Perhaps the best way to make sure you are a respectful traveler is by having the mindset that you're just a visitor in a foreign land,' Lau said. 'You're not there to change things or to do things the way you would do them at home. You're there to experience the local culture and learn about new customs.' Rather than insisting things be done your preferred way or complaining about unfamiliar experiences, be polite and humble. 'Don't expect that a whole country is going to adapt to you,' said Claire Summers, the travel blogger behind Claire's Itchy Feet. 'I've seen so many tourists with an extreme sense of entitlement, and it's so uncomfortable to witness. So rather than getting frustrated and demanding, try taking a breath and adapting to a slower pace for a while. Who knows, you may like it!' Think of yourself as a guest in a stranger's home. And remember that your behavior reflects on yourself and the U.S. as a whole. 'The beginning and end of proper behavior, be it in the U.S. or most other countries popularly visited by U.S. citizens, be respectful, be gracious and keep in mind that you are ambassadors of this fine country,' Abbott said. Smith emphasized that cultural differences often manifest in faces and spaces, so do your best to understand the norms around things like eye contact and personal bubbles. 'Some countries have smiles at the ready while others only smile with their nearest and dearest,' she explained. 'Eye contact is also culturally specific. The more egalitarian cultures tend to have more eye contact. The more rigid cultures tend to have less eye contact.' Trifari recommended thinking about common gestures or movements like nodding as well. 'In Athens, I learned that Greeks typically do not nod or shake their heads to communicate the same way Americans are accustomed to,' he said. 'In Greece, this gesture can be considered impolite. To indicate 'no,' Greeks tilt the head backward once; nodding the head forward to signal 'yes.' If you find yourself uncertain, using the local language to communicate 'yes' or 'no' can help avoid any confusion or fears of sending the wrong message.' The typical amount of touch and distance between people in public places can also vary. 'Many cooler climates tend to have larger body-space bubbles, whereas many warmer climates tend to have smaller body-space bubbles,' Smith explained. 'Even standing in line is culturally specific. Pay careful attention to how others queue before taking your place.' 'Travelers need to make sure they wear something appropriate for the religious sites,' Lauderdale noted. 'We all want to look our best on vacation, but something revealing might not be welcomed in a religious place of worship.' In addition to preparing for different temperatures, take respect for local culture into account when you pack for your trip. Your favorite sneakers, fanny packs and sleeveless shirts might not be the right attire every step of the way. And even if you're going somewhere very hot, try to pack at least one outfit that provides more cover (in a lightweight, breathable fabric). 'Know what to wear. There are places, from religious sites to entire countries, where modesty is required,' Smith said. 'Some locations also 'dress for dinner.' This may require formal or semi-formal attire as well as the requisite footwear.' And on the subject of clothing, make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules around shoes when you enter someone's home or certain establishments. In many cultures, there's an expectation that guests will remove their shoes at the door. In addition to dressing respectfully while visiting religious sites and other places of deep significance to locals, you'll want to show reverence in your behavior. You may not be familiar with the traditions and culture surrounding the religion in question, but always err on the side of being quiet and courteous of others. 'Temples, churches and other places of worship are usually very beautiful and grandiose, which leads to many travelers wanting to capture the perfect photo,' Lauderdale said. 'However, when doing so, you could be interfering with people praying or other religious ceremonies.' 'Because you are in a foreign country, you might exhibit rude behaviors or faux pas without knowing. One of the most common ones is actually bargaining,' Lau said. Of course, many countries and cities have marketplaces where negotiating over prices is the norm, but that isn't true everywhere. And even if it is, the rules can vary. As always, do your research. 'Bargaining can be disrespectful, especially if you are in a place where bargaining is not acceptable,' Lau explained. 'But even in places where bargaining is acceptable, you can still anger the locals by bargaining incorrectly. If the vendor tells you a price and you respond by low-balling him, he might be insulted and kick you out of his shop.' Different cultures carry different expectations for timing and scheduling. Smith explained that some places follow more 'linear' notions of time, while others are more 'circular' or 'cyclical,' for instance. 'Linear cultures tend to keep careful time,' Smith said. 'It is important that you are right on time ― or early ― for reservations or gatherings. Circular cultures tend to be time fluid. When making plans, the timing is more of a suggestion than the rule.' 'Greeting a friend can look very different depending on which part of the world you are in,' Trifari said. 'Cultural differences can result in a warm welcome being perceived as cold, rigid or otherwise inappropriate.' Indeed, certain gestures or movements that indicate one thing in the U.S. might have a very different meaning in other countries. 'In the Netherlands, it is considered rude to shout a greeting from afar,' Trifari explained. 'The Dutch are modest people, and ostentatious behavior is frowned upon. When greeting someone from a distance, it is better to wave.' In some places, friends and acquaintances might greet one another with a smile or friendly nod, while in others, people might greet with a kiss or two on the cheek. As Trifari noted, 'knowing what to do — whether you shake their hand, bow, offer them a hug or walk together holding hands — can help to avoid an awkward situation for both parties by knowing what the other person may expect.' The Rudest Things You Can Do As An Overnight Guest In Someone's Home 50 Americanisms That Don't Make Sense To Foreigners 19 Baby Names That Might Raise Eyebrows In Other Languages
