No more crying wolf… After 20 years of trying to get traction, Real I.D. kicks in on May 7, 2025 –

Starting May 7, 2025, the long-delayed REAL ID Act will officially go into effect, impacting all U.S. travelers flying domestically. To board a commercial flight or enter certain federal facilities, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card—or an alternative federally accepted form of ID, such as a passport. This change stems from a post-9/11 federal law aimed at enhancing national security by establishing consistent ID standards across states. If your current driver’s license is not REAL ID-compliant (look for a star in the top right corner), now is the time to update it. Avoid travel disruptions by checking with your state’s DMV and ensuring you have the proper identification well ahead of any travel plans.

I about fell out of my chair when I saw the top 10 U.S. destinations searched on Google for summer 2025 – can’t believe Omaha, NE made the list.

1. San Juan, Puerto Rico: This island destination is the most searched, indicating a strong interest in Caribbean beach vacations. Also it is the epicenter for many Caribbean cruises.
2. Billings, Montana: This destination suggests a growing interest among travelers for outdoor adventures in the summer. Outdoor adventures are hot, hot, hot in 2025.
3. Nantucket, Massachusetts: As another island on the list, Nantucket highlights the continued popularity of coastal getaways in the U.S.
4. St. Louis, Missouri: This city’s inclusion might point to an increasing interest in exploring urban destinations within the Midwest. This is really a cool town.
5. Providence, Rhode Island: Similar to St. Louis, Providence could be attracting travelers interested in city exploration or its proximity to the coast.
6. Maui, Hawaii: This well-known Hawaiian island remains a top-searched destination for its beautiful beaches and tropical appeal. You can’t go wrong with a week in Hawaii.
7. Omaha, Nebraska:The search interest in Omaha might indicate a trend towards visiting the Midwest or using it as a connecting point for travel. This one was the biggest surprise of all.
8. Juneau, Alaska: Juneau’s popularity suggests a significant interest in nature-based travel and experiencing Alaska’s stunning scenery. Everyone loves Alaska in the summer. Plus it is on almost all cruise itineraries.
9. Bangor, Maine: Similar to Juneau, Bangor indicates a trend towards exploring the natural beauty of the Northeast during the summer. Great hiking, biking, camping and everything outdoors.
10. Madison, Wisconsin: This destination might be gaining popularity for its lakes, natural landscapes, and vibrant college-town atmosphere.
    Here is my observation of the key domestic travel trends observed for summer 2025 -As I look ahead to summer 2025, several key domestic travel trends are emerging. Affordability and easy accessibility are driving much of the decision-making, as travelers increasingly seek the best value for their vacation dollar. This focus on budget-friendly options is matched by a growing appetite for outdoor adventure, with many travelers prioritizing experiences that offer both excitement and open-air serenity. Notably, coastal and island destinations continue to dominate the top 10 most searched spots, reflecting a strong desire for sun, sand, and sea. A subtler, but equally important, shift toward my 2025 theme of “slow down and cozy up”—a longing for destinations that offer a blend of relaxation, cultural enrichment, and a slower pace of life. This balance of adventure, rest, and authenticity is shaping what travelers are craving most this summer.