Friday Around the Planet is a list of travel-related news and inspiration you might have missed over the past week.
It is hard to wrap my head around the fact that we are almost halfway through the year, but it feels like anyone who is lucky enough to travel this summer has already made plans. More countries are reopening with plans for a busy summer travel season.
For the first time in more than two years, New Zealand opened its borders to tourists from all over the world on Monday. Travelers at the arrivals gate in New Zealand's largest city received a warm welcome, with local chocolate bars and Māori cultural performers.
Are you thinking about visiting New Zealand? Need more inspiration? There are 12 incredible road trips that will take you off the beaten track and show you some of the country's best natural wonders.
In the southern hemisphere, Fiji streamlined its entry process and ruled that travelers can visit without pre-arrival COVID-19 testing. One less task on the to-do list will give you more time to find an affordable resort or figure out what needs to be included on your itinerary.
Greece took a giant leap forward this week by getting rid of all of its entry requirements. No more certificates are needed to enter the country or enter a hotel. In fact, it's pretty much business as usual, but you shouldn't abandon all precautions as face masks remain necessary in public places until June.
Croatia dropped restrictions this week. Italy abandoned its Green Pass because people no longer have to show their vaccinations to enter. You will need to show a recovery or test certificate to enter Italy, so don't leave it at home.
The news that Oktoberfest will return to Munich this year is a sign that things are moving in a positive direction. Cheers to that!
If you can't make it to Europe this summer, you should check out this free event in Washington, DC.
There are 12 essential Asian American destinations in the US that you can visit.
The National Gallery of Arts in DC is showing an exhibition about the history of the slave trade and its effects on the African diaspora.
Maybe you are looking for an outdoor adventure that will take you away from the crowds. The National Park Service announced this week that the North Rim of the Grand Canyon will reopen for the season on May 15.
If the current political news cycle is leaving you feeling drained and exhausted, you might want to look for places around the world that offer visitors a peaceful and serene experience. They are more or less free from man-made noise pollution so you can catch your breath, clear your head, and leave the noise behind.
Qantas, Australia's national carrier, announced this week that it is moving forward with plans to connect New York and London with cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane on non-stop flights. It will take an average of 19 hours for a flight from Australia to New York. It will be a while before anyone can get their hands on them, as they are not slated to launch until 2025.
The long-awaited Crossrail high-speed rail line in London is getting off the ground soon. One of the most significant phases of the project for travelers will launch in the fall. You can arrive in the center of the city in 38 minutes if you land at the airport. It currently takes on the Underground for one hour. Climate friendly journeys are one that we love.
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