Travel Week in Review – December 15th, 2023

Brazil has launched an electronic visa platform for visitors from the U.S., Canada and Australia when the waiver currently in place for those countries expires next month. For arrivals beginning Jan. 10, 2024, visitors from those countries can apply for visas via a system developed by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and obtain them at the cost of US$80.90 per person. The electronic visas allow multiple entries and will be valid 5 years for Canadians and Australians and 10 years for U.S. residents. Read More…

Are you considering heading to Europe to visit its Christmas markets sometime soon? Great idea! I’ve been visiting the markets for over a decade now, and the magic of the experience still hasn’t waned. There are some things you should know before visiting a European Christmas market, though, so read on to get prepped for your festive trip. Layering Up Is Essential – You’re going to want to be sure to pack layers of warm clothes for the chilly European nights you’re bound to experience. Or, just wait… Read More…

A long weekend away can do wonders for wanderlusters bogged down by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And many workers may not even need to take time off. Seven federal holidays fall on Mondays in 2024, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, making them built-in long weekends. While not all employers observe every federal holiday, a great deal grant at least some of them off. Many schools close, too. Read More…

There’s no crystal ball when it comes to predicting future travel trends, but a new survey from Flywire, a B2B travel payment service, is offering a set of predictions as we head into 2024, thanks to insight from more than 400 international travel providers. The Travel Providers Insight Report— which includes survey results from destination management companies, accommodation providers and tour operators in… Read More…

It’s going to be a busy holiday travel season, especially for those who are planning to hit the road to reach their final destination. AAA projects 115.2 million travelers between Dec. 23 and New Year’s Day – and 90% of those people will be going by car. It’ll be the second-highest on record of drivers following 2019. “This year-end holiday forecast, with an additional 2.5 million travelers compared to last year, mirrors what AAA Travel has been observing throughout 2023,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president… Read More…