Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is set to transform its beloved canal rides into a more sustainable experience. As of April 1st, a new law mandates that certain types of boats navigating the city’s picturesque canals must be emission-free. This significant change not only reflects the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also enhances the experience for both travelers and locals.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has launched its highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua, the first vessel in the Prima Plus Class, with a spectacular maiden voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England. Designed to push the boundaries of luxury cruising, Norwegian Aqua offers a range of new features and attractions aimed at delivering more entertainment, dining, and relaxation options than ever before.

Spain, one of the world’s most visited countries, is facing a growing wave of frustration from locals as mass tourism continues to impact daily life. From Ibiza to Barcelona and Tenerife, residents are pushing back against overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising housing costs, prompting calls for stricter regulations on visitor numbers and short-term rentals.

A New Chapter for Nobu in Amsterdam

Nobu Hospitality, the internationally recognized luxury hotel and dining brand, is debuting in the Netherlands with Nobu Residences Park Meadows Amsterdam and Nobu Restaurant Amsterdam. This new development, created in partnership with Dutch real estate firm Breevast, will bring Nobu’s signature style to the elegant Oud-Zuid district, one of Amsterdam’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

ATHENS, Greece – A swarm of over 12,000 earthquakes has struck near the volcanic island of Santorini in just over two weeks, raising concerns among scientists and authorities. While most of the quakes have been of small magnitude, experts warn that a larger tremor cannot be ruled out.

A guest at a beachside hotel in Vlissingen, Netherlands, returned to her room to find an unexpected visitor—a grey seal resting on the floor.

The incident occurred at Pier 7, a beachfront hotel with rooms directly on the sand. According to local reports, the guest had stepped out to walk her dog but mistakenly left the door open, allowing the seal to slip inside. Upon discovering the marine intruder, she quickly contacted the hotel staff, who then reached out to the Sea Animal Rescue Team, a local animal welfare organization.

HX Expeditions, formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, is set to debut the industry’s first flight-inclusive cruises from New York to Greenland, marking a significant milestone in travel accessibility to the Arctic region. The cruises will be paired with United Airlines’ new nonstop flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Greenland’s newly opened international airport in Nuuk.

Domestic airfares are projected to climb significantly during the first half of 2025, while long-haul travelers may find better deals, particularly on flights to Asia and Europe. New data highlights a complex pricing landscape shaped by consumer demand, limited airline capacity growth, and industry-specific challenges.

The cruise industry has rebounded strongly in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers and shaking off its negative reputation. With growing interest across generations, cruise lines are exploring innovative ways to extend onboard experiences, catering to evolving travel preferences. Virgin Voyages has now joined the trend by launching an Unlimited Cruise Pass, allowing travelers to sail anywhere the brand operates for an entire year.