Welcome to Friday Around the Planet, a roundup of some of the travel-related news and inspiration you might have missed over the past week.
We’re just days away from the start of June and the unofficial start to the summer holiday travel season.
We know for many people it’s been a bit since they last traveled, and with so much uncertainty in the world, we realize that many may have questions heading into this summer season.
So, we put out a call for questions on our social media. You asked, and our iBestTravel experts have now answered. Check out some of the questions you had, as well as our expert tips for summer travel 2022.
By the way, if you need an idea of where to go, I just spent my weekend in Moab, Utah. Home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, it’s an ideal place for adventure enthusiasts.
Travel to the United States
If you’re planning a visit to the United States this year, please note that the cost to apply with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) has increased to $21 from $14.
The US still mandates proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than one day prior to travel from all arriving travelers. Here’s how you can meet that requirement.
Transportation News
London’s long-awaited Elizabeth Line or Crossrail opened this week to much fanfare. The new, high-speed line is being launched in phases and is expected to significantly reduce travel time. It’s estimated that it could take as little as 38 minutes to travel from London Heathrow into the city when that part of the line opens this fall, an entire hour less than the current travel time.
Meanwhile, some good news for your transit budget if you’re headed to Germany. The country has introduced a new 9 euro monthly transit ticket which allows you to take advantage of unlimited U-Bahn, S-Bahn, regional trains, buses, and trams. Although the ticket does not include long-distance trains such as the IC or the country’s high-speed ICE train, here’s how you can get one and use it to your advantage.
Inspiration for Outdoor Adventures
With summertime upon us, you might be starting to plan a beach vacation.
If you’re looking for inspiration for where to set up your beach chair, check out our travel guides. From the 28 best beaches in the US to discovering the best beaches in destinations like Croatia, or Tenerife, or the best surf spots in the Caribbean, we have numerous suggestions to help you find your perfect piece of paradise.
If you’d rather be in the mountains, Switzerland has unveiled a new 300km hiking trail called the ViaBerna, trekking through the country’s stunning landscapes.
If you seek inspiration to lace up your hiking boots, consider the story of the first all-Black team to summit Mount Everest.
Pride Month Starts June 1
June 1 marks the beginning of Pride Month, and we have some exciting ideas to celebrate. Explore the best pride celebrations in Europe and the United States, as well as some of the most LGBTQ friendly cities in South America to plan your next trip.
