The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed new digital screening rules for travelers who enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. The plan would affect citizens of about 42 participating countries, mainly in Europe and parts of Asia, who may stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business…
Southwest Airlines is preparing to introduce significant modifications to its seating policy for plus-size passengers, changes that will take effect on January 27, 2026. The revisions coincide with the airline’s broader shift to assigned seating, replacing its long-standing open-seating model. Under the new rules, passengers who cannot sit comfortably between the armrests of a single seat must purchase an additional…
The Conservative Party in the UK has unveiled new proposals to strengthen enforcement of bylaws banning loud music on trains and buses. Existing railway bylaws already prohibit passengers from producing noise through instruments or electronic devices if it causes disturbance, but enforcement has been inconsistent. The Conservatives want to empower transport operators to issue on-the-spot fines not only on trains…
Incident and Employment Outcome A Yosemite National Park ranger, Shannon “SJ” Joslin, who identifies as nonbinary and serves as a wildlife biologist, hung a transgender pride flag, measuring approximately 66 feet wide, from El Capitan for about two hours before voluntarily removing it. In August 2025, park leadership terminated Joslin’s employment, citing “failure to demonstrate acceptable conduct” in their capacity as…
The Disappearing Heart of a Community The historic district of Montmartre in Paris, once celebrated for its bohemian spirit and artistic heritage, has become the focal point of a significant community protest against overtourism. For long-time residents, the neighborhood’s unique identity is being systematically eroded, replaced by an environment that caters almost exclusively to a ceaseless flow of visitors. This…
After a five-year restoration costing approximately £27.5 million, Norwich Castle Keep, a Grade I-listed Norman fortress, has reopened its doors to the public, now celebrated as “The People’s Palace.” Originally commissioned by William the Conqueror and completed by King Henry I in 1121, the castle has long stood as one of the most significant Norman royal palaces in Europe. For…
Time Out’s 2025 edition of its “World’s Best Cities” ranking offers a fresh perspective—this time, focusing exclusively on what Generation Z (under-30s) values most in urban life. Drawing on a survey of more than 18,500 local residents per city, combined with evaluations by a panel of experts, the study captures the priorities of younger urban dwellers—affordability, inclusivity, nightlife, cultural offerings,…
