by admin | Sep 1, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, aviation, international travel, world
Istanbul, Turkey, has been named the top preferred international airport globally for this year, surpassing Singapore Changi, according to 657,000 votes from readers of the U.S.-based publication Travel+Leisure.
Istanbul Airport achieved a rating of 98.57 out of 100 in this year’s World’s Best Awards poll, which evaluated airports according to factors including accessibility, check-in and security procedures, dining options, retail spaces, and architectural style.
A passenger praised the airport’s “bright and open layout. Clear directions.”
One individual stated, “It represents a client-focused, dependable, and thriving air travel facility. I would describe it as the top airport globally.”
A variety of cafés and restaurants can be found at Istanbul Airport, serving dishes from both Turkish and international cuisines.
Bakery shops, pastry stores, cafes, well-known coffee outlets, quick-service eateries, and self-serve dining areas offer a variety of flavors for travelers.
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport ranked third, with Zayed International Airport and Dubai International Airport from the United Arab Emirates coming next.
The remaining entries in the top 10 included Hong Kong International Airport (China), Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (Finland), Haneda Tokyo Airport (Japan), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (India), and Incheon International Airport located in South Korea.
In the previous year, visitors to the American publication Condé Nast Traveler also selected Istanbul Airport as the top airport globally during the yearly Readers’ Choice Awards, outperforming Changi.
by admin | Aug 31, 2025 | international travel, tourists, tours, travel destinations, uk economy
Every year, millions of travelers come to the United Kingdom – but which nation sends the largest number of visitors?
From uneven stone paths, old structures, an
Royal Family
In addition to stunning shorelines, the United Kingdom offers much more.
However, there is one specific nation that is drawn to our boundless rural areas and lively urban centers.
The United States leads all others, with an impressive 5.6 million reported trips to the UK in 2024, as per the data from the
Office of National Statistics
(ONS).
France
accompanied by 3.6 million people who traveled to the nation during the previous year.
While
Germany
secured the third position, attracting 3.3 million travelers who flew in to explore the United Kingdom in 2024.
The
Republic of Ireland
placed fourth with 2.9 million visitors coming from the neighboring country.
In the meantime, 2.5 million visitors to the United Kingdom arrived from Spain.
In total, the UK received approximately 42.6 million visits from international visitors in 2024.
They also spent significantly, having distributed an impressive £32.5 billion during their stay.
This amounts to an average expenditure of £763 per journey.
Residents in the UK also traveled extensively, with an estimated 94.6 million overseas journeys taken during the previous year.
People who traveled abroad in 2024 are estimated to have spent a combined amount of £78.6 billion.
Spain, a top vacation destination, remained favored among British travelers, who made approximately 17.8 million trips there.
France had 9.3 million visitors, while Italy recorded 4.8 million.
Tourism from the United Kingdom to Spain has almost reached pre-pandemic numbers, with 18.1 million visitors traveling there in 2019.
France has nearly made a comeback as well, with 10.3 million visits from British tourists recorded in 2019.
Similarly, Italy welcomed 5.1 million visitors in 2019.
In the meantime, the United States recorded 4.1 million visits from British tourists during the previous year, with 4.8 million such visits before the pandemic began.
However, Turkey has seen a significant rise, recording 2.3 million visits in 2019 and reaching an outstanding 4.1 million in 2024.
Read more
-
What contributes to the new UK travel adjustment being a significant financial opportunity for tourism?
-
Is the British population opting for local vacations this year to enjoy the UK’s stunning historic sites more than ever?
-
Luxembourg takes the lead, yet how do British people’s rapidly increasing vacation trends measure up against attractive Spanish holidays?
-
Are European tourist attractions becoming less appealing as British travelers opt for distant locations during their summer breaks?
-
What makes Loveholidays expect an enormous increase of five million UK travelers, compared to just one million in 2019?
by admin | Aug 19, 2025 | europe, international travel, Travel, travel advice, travel in europe
A female traveler who has been to 26 cities across Europe has expressed her opinions about which places were the most challenging to visit, and which ones were the most enjoyable.
From
Birmingham
To Seville, American-born Charlie Seville has visited various cities across Europe.
She has currently categorized various locations according to her individual perspective regarding ‘food quality, atmosphere, cost-effectiveness, and general enjoyment’.
“These are simply my views derived from my personal travels throughout Europe,” Charlie commented with a
post
on her
TikTok
account,
@charliewallace64
.
Some of these perspectives could spark debate, yet that’s precisely what gives traveling an individual touch.
I have been to over 26 European cities, including both well-known ones and hidden treasures, and I’ve rated them from least to most favorable according to cuisine, atmosphere, cost-effectiveness, and general enjoyment. Feel free to share your opinion on which city should be placed higher (or lower)!’
The lowest-ranked location on Charlie’s list was Catania, Italy, which earned a score of just three out of ten.
She believed the city was “unrefined” and characterized it as “dilapidated, unclean, and unexpectedly difficult to locate good cuisine.”
Even though Charlie didn’t have many activities to engage in besides wandering through the downtown area, he observed that there were ‘stunning vistas of Mount Etna’.
The second-worst entry on Charlie’s list was actually nearer than expected — Birmingham.
With a rating of only 3.2 from ten, the tourist departed the city in the West Midlands, feeling let down.
“She didn’t leave much of an impression on me,” she wrote.
Charlie shared her opinion that it “lacks charm and unity,” and referred to the center as “unremarkable.”
Nevertheless, she recognized suggestions from individuals who return in December when the city becomes lively with vibrant and colorful Christmas fairs.
A different British city, Manchester, followed, achieving just 3.8 points out of ten.
Charlie felt disheartened by the “gray clouds, light rain, and freezing weather.”
She also believed the region’s highlights were “spread out across Greater Manchester, which is not convenient for tourists.”
A popular travel destination in Europe, Prague in the Czech Republic followed closely with an underwhelming score of four out of ten.
Charlie described it as “seemed highly overhyped” and mentioned it was “swamped with visitors.”
Numerous people come to the region to view Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, which the traveler found “did not live up to the excitement.”
Nevertheless, she mentioned “it was reasonably priced and contained intriguing pieces of history.”
In the meantime, Kraków, Poland came in at position 16, achieving an average rating of 6.3 out of 10.
Charlie recognized the Polish city as “cost-effective, easy to navigate on foot, and very appealing,” yet found it modest and capable of being explored within a few days.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, Charlie rated Bath as 9.3 out of ten, praising its beauty extensively and placing it in third position.
“The sand-colored stone structures and expansive Georgian design contribute to the city’s enduring sophistication,” Charlie noted.
She mentioned that she adored “its rich personality” and praised the “independent shops, comfortable cafés, and several outstanding restaurants.”
Charlie’s list placed London in second position, achieving an outstanding rating of 9.6 out of 10.
Although he had lived in London for four years, Charlie maintained, “I’m still not bored.”
“It’s the greatest mixture of cultures, foods, fashions, and thoughts,” she wrote.
Although the city may sometimes feel “quick-moving and demanding,” Charlie highlighted “it still holds my heart.”
“There’s truly no place quite like this,” the traveler noted.
Number one on Charlie’s list was Seville, located in Spain, which received an impressive rating of 9.9 out of ten from the content producer.
She explained how the Spanish city “fully enchanted” her and praised the endless sunlight and vibrant environment.
“It’s genuine, cozy, and filled with heart. I’m already eager to come back,” she exclaimed.
It follows the release of a list by British people highlighting 30 aspects they love about Europe — with three out of four UK residents acknowledging they still consider themselves essentially European.
Brexit
.
A research carried out by
TUI
Seasoned travelers were invited to describe their favorite parts of Europe — including local cuisine, famous attractions, and secret spots.
Read more
by admin | Aug 11, 2025 | international travel, passports and international travel, tourists, Travel, travel advice
Some travelers view having their passport marked with stamps from famous or picturesque places as a symbol of achievement.
Numerous people utilize them as a method for documenting every distinct location they have explored around the world, somewhat similar to a keepsake.
Nevertheless, visitors have received advisories against gathering ‘unique’ stamps within their official passport documents.
In well-known places like Machu Picchu located in Peru, visitors might receive informal stamps as a keepsake from their trip.
Additional locations are Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, located in Wales, and Checkpoint Charlie,
Berlin
.
However, what may seem like an innocent entry added to your passport could potentially get you into difficulty with immigration officials, since certain nations view such stamps as evidence of interference or possibly a risk to security.
Some travelers have needed to obtain a new passport after a foreign immigration officer deemed theirs as damaged or modified.
Jamie Fraser, who serves as the director of an American summer camp called Wildpacks, described how these widely used stamps have started causing issues for certain travelers.
He remarked, “Souvenir stamps have turned into something of an emblem of pride for travelers—they appear stylish and make one feel connected to the journey.”
But as soon as someone else stamps your passport besides a customs officer, you aren’t creating an experience—you’re jeopardizing the entire document being considered void.
He said: “If your passport has anything that wasn’t put there by an authorized authority, you’re subject to how each border officer interprets it.”
Despite occupying only a single square inch, it has the potential to create significant problems.
Unofficial stamps, marks, or notes are regarded as harm to a passport by the United Kingdom government, as stated by Wildpacks.
Pages that are torn or absent are also included, along with those containing faded or illegible details.
Stains from ink or harm caused by moisture on passports are considered as damage, along with detached or broken covers.
It is advised that visitors request the commemorative stamps on a sheet of paper or a postcard, rather than their passport.
Travelers are also advised not to mark their own passports, as minor drawings or notes might lead to problems.
It is also advised to conduct a thorough review of each page prior to departure, ensuring all details are correct and there are no unexpected markings or seals.
Travelers have also been advised to renew their identification documents ahead of time if they are worried.
It follows after we disclosed that there is a d
A dreamy Caribbean island offering citizenship through property purchase
.
Read more
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | europe, international travel, laws and regulations, passports and international travel, Travel
Travelers from Britain heading to Europe are being cautioned by an industry group against falling victim to scams due to uncertainties surrounding entry and exit regulations.
With the UK’s
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Starting this week, scammers are actively exploiting the confusion. ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents, has issued warnings about fraudulent sites providing imitation passes to UK travelers planning trips to continental Europe.
Starting from April 2nd, individuals without a British passport must apply for an ETIAS authorization when visiting the United Kingdom. This requirement mirrors the implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which will impact travelers from the UK planning trips to Europe.
However,
The launch of ETIAS is scheduled for approximately 18 months from now.
, and currently, there is no need for British citizens to acquire any extra documents for traveling.
What permissions are presently needed for traveling from the UK to the EU?
The UK’s
ETA
Came into effect for European citizens on April 2nd, this rule requires all holders of EU passports to apply for and obtain an ETA prior to traveling to the UK.
The program has been operational for travelers from countries without the need for European visas since January. Nevertheless, its implementation has encountered numerous issues and challenges.
confusion
.
If visitors from overseas come to meet you—whether they are friends, family, or business partners—they will need to verify whether they require an ETA,” states ABTA. “Among the three upcoming modifications for crossing borders between the EU and UK, this is the sole change currently active, which could lead to potential misunderstandings.
A similar regulation will apply to British travelers heading to Europe – known as the ETIAS. Nonetheless, this system isn’t scheduled to launch until the new
EU Entry/Exit system
(EES) goes live.
The EES has faced multiple delays previously; however, it is currently expected to
launch in October 2025
.
The rollout will occur gradually, hence not all modifications will become effective right away.
The introduction of ETIAS is anticipated in 2026, according to ABTA, which suggests it might come into effect towards the latter part of that year. Initially, ETIAS will probably remain voluntary for a minimum of half a year after launch. Currently, British travelers do not require extra paperwork to enjoy holidays within Europe.
With several upcoming adjustments expected within the next few years, our priority is ensuring everyone grasps their implications,” states Graeme Buck, communication director at ABTA. “To summarize, the sole action required currently is for Europeans visiting the UK to obtain an ETA. There won’t be any alterations for British travelers heading to Europe during the approaching summer.
How to submit an application for ETIAS once it becomes operational
ETIAS will resemble the US system.
ESTA
a system where submitting a basic online application provides authorization to move around the designated zone for a certain duration.
Under the EU plan, the estimated cost of an ETIAS is approximately €7 and it will remain valid for up to three years (or until your passport expires within three months). This permit will enable British travelers to visit any EU nation (or multiple nations) for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day timeframe.
As stated by the EU, third-country nationals such as the UK will receive a single ‘grace period’ lasting for six months if they fail to present their ETIAS once.
“Individuals arriving in Europe for the first time after the conclusion of the transition phase will be permitted to enter without an ETIAS as long as they meet all other requirements for admission,” according to the EU.
ABTA cautions that individuals attempting to apply for an ETIAS currently might be vulnerable to scams, potentially resulting in financial losses as well as possible theft of personal information.
Once the time arrives, the sole location to apply for an ETIAS will be online.
official website
Any applications, websites, or social media postings indicating there is an alternate route should be considered fake news.
Visitors will have to provide personal details along with their passport information, and also declare any significant criminal records from the last two decades. It’s mandatory to specify the purpose of their trip and indicate where they plan to reside during their stay.
Schengen Area
the country they plan to visit first.
The charge applies to all applicants who are 18 years old or older but not yet 70. Individuals younger than 18 or older than 70 must still submit an application, though they will not incur any fees.
Given that two more alterations are scheduled, the circumstances might appear complex,” notes Buck. “Once modifications impacting UK travelers begin rolling out toward year-end, both ABTA and our associates will stand ready to assist those affected.
by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | europe, european union, international borders, international travel, passports and international travel
The United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has now been extended to include travelers from Europe.
As of 2 April 2025, all EU citizens (excluding those from Ireland), EEA members, and Swiss nationals will require ETA authorization to enter the United Kingdom.
Starting from January 8, 2025, the system will become obligatory for travelers hailing from the United States, Canada, and Australia. This follows the earlier implementation in November for citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
To get the visa waiver, which will cost £10 (€12) starting today or £16 (€19) from April 9th onwards, travelers must go through an online procedure—however, some Britons holding dual citizenship are already encountering problems.
How can one apply for the United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) visa exemption?
Travelers have the option to utilize the official mobile application, which can be
downloaded
From the UK government website, or
apply online here
.
To finish the application process, you require the
passport
The travel segment you’ll be using requires providing an email address along with either a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay information. Additionally, you must respond to a series of eligibility queries. Entering specific travel particulars isn’t necessary.
The authorities recommend submitting your application no later than three business days prior to your travel date.
You have the option to remove the app once you’re done with it.
applying
Your estimated time of arrival will be digitally connected to your passport, and you won’t need to present any additional documents upon entering the UK.
Although it appears quite straightforward, the application procedure has caused some confusion among Britons who hold dual citizenship, leaving them unsure about whether they need to apply for the visa waiver or not.
Issues with ETA applications for British dual citizens
Theoretically, individuals holding both British citizenship and another nationality do not require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and ought to have the option to enter the United Kingdom using whichever passport they prefer.
However, confusion has emerged among individuals without a British passport since their documents may be expired, missing, or they might not have been issued one at all.
If they opt to travel using their EU passport, the application process will be as follows:
ETA
– and whether this is required – remains uncertain.
The ETA application form requires travelers to disclose any additional nationalities they might have, yet the dropdown menu doesn’t offer an option for ‘British Citizen.’
If British dual citizens proceed with their application without disclosing their ‘secondary’ citizenship, they could potentially be required to provide incorrect information regarding their dual nationality.
Euronews Travel asked an adviser from the Home Office about their views during their online chat session.
The adviser declined to provide advice on avoiding declaration of British citizenship.
ETA
They mentioned that if you hold both British and Irish citizenship, you are not required to obtain an ETA.
However, “you prove your
permission to travel
Using your valid British or Irish passport, or another passport that includes a certificate of entitlement for the right of abode in the UK.”
When asked what to do if the traveller is not in possession of any of these documents, the advisor responded, “You either need to apply for a British passport or a certificate of entitlement”.
Applying for a renewed UK passport from abroad incurs a cost of £101 (€123), whereas obtaining a certificate of entitlement requires a payment of £550 (€658). Each process typically takes multiple weeks to complete.
Euronews Travel has contacted the Home Office seeking official guidance.
