Travel News Alert on July 23: US Growth, International Declines, and New Entry Rules

Published on July 23, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Atlanta, USA, 23 July, 2025- The global travel industry is experiencing some significant shifts. On the one hand, the U.S. travel market is showing signs of growth, with airlines increasing domestic routes and more options becoming available for travelers across the country. However, this positive trend is met with contrasting declines in key international tourist destinations. Several iconic places are seeing sharp drops in visitors, particularly in popular European and Asian hotspots. These declines are raising concerns for local tourism sectors, with some regions already implementing measures to cope with the reduction in travelers.

Meanwhile, several countries are adjusting their entry requirements, adding another layer of complexity for travelers. Starting in 2026, new European regulations will require travelers from the UK and other non-EU countries to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver. This, along with tighter tourism controls in high-demand destinations, reflects a broader global effort to manage over-tourism and improve travel sustainability.

As travel continues to rebound post-pandemic, these mixed trends—growing domestic travel in the U.S. versus declining international tourism—along with new regulations, signal that the travel industry is navigating a complex, evolving landscape. Travelers and tourism professionals alike must stay informed on these developments to make the most of the opportunities and navigate the challenges ahead.

U.S. Airlines Expand Domestic Routes in Time for Peak Summer Demand

As the summer travel season peaks, U.S. airlines are ramping up operations to accommodate the surge in demand. Frontier, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines are among the major carriers adding more than 30 new domestic routes to enhance connectivity and meet the growing need for travel.

Frontier Airlines is expanding its operations through Denver, which has become a key hub for the carrier. American Airlines is introducing new flights from Washington D.C., while Delta is increasing service to destinations in Arizona and Missouri. Travelers can expect more options for mountain and leisure destinations, with airlines looking to provide more flexibility and potentially lower fares.

This expansion is a reflection of the competitive and growing domestic travel market in the U.S., where airlines are working hard to provide convenient and affordable options for passengers. With new routes, more destinations are now easily accessible, making it easier than ever for Americans to explore the country during the peak travel months.

International Hotspots Face Tourism Declines

While U.S. domestic travel is booming, several popular international destinations are experiencing sharp declines in visitor numbers. Iconic destinations like Cuba, Iceland, and Thailand have reported steep downturns in tourism, signaling the shifts in global travel patterns.

In Cuba, international arrivals have plummeted by 34%, largely due to the ongoing economic and political issues facing the island. Meanwhile, luxury hotels in Thailand have seen a significant rise in cancellations, particularly during the high season. Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes, has adopted a “quality over quantity” approach to manage crowds and environmental impacts, limiting the number of visitors in certain areas to preserve its natural beauty.

These declines contrast with the surges seen in other regions, such as the Middle East, where countries like Abu Dhabi are targeting high-value travelers through strategic partnerships. In particular, Abu Dhabi is focusing on MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) with plans to expand its convention facilities and VAT-free luxury shopping zones.

European Entry Rules Tighten, New Fees for Tourists

In response to rising tourism and the need to manage visitor numbers, several European countries are tightening their entry rules. Starting in 2026, travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter the Schengen Area. This requirement applies to more than 30 countries, including popular destinations like Spain, France, and Greece. The application process will include a fee of approximately €7, and approval must be requested online at least 72 hours before travel.

This new policy aims to streamline border controls and enhance security, while also managing the flow of tourists. It marks a significant shift in European travel regulations, aligning with efforts to ensure that tourism remains sustainable and manageable across the region.

Destinations Combat Over Tourism with New Policies

As overtourism continues to be a concern in major global destinations, cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Lisbon are implementing new measures to manage tourist behavior and preserve local culture. Venice is launching a weekday entry fee of €5, approximately $5.40, as a way to regulate the number of visitors to the city’s historic sites. Similarly, Barcelona and Lisbon have introduced fines for public drinking, nudity, and rowdy behavior, with penalties reaching up to €3,000.

These efforts aim to combat the negative impact of mass tourism and ensure that cities remain livable for residents while still welcoming travelers. In addition to these regulations, Bhutan has raised its sustainable tourism tax to limit the number of daily arrivals, ensuring that tourism doesn’t overwhelm the country’s small infrastructure.

Visa Relaxations for Indian Nationals

In a positive move for travelers from India, several countries are easing their visa requirements. Starting in August 2025, India nationals will benefit from a range of travel perks, including visa-on-arrival options for destinations like Indonesia, the St. Kitts and Nevis, and the UAE. Indian travelers will also enjoy 30-day visa-free entry to Jordan and Sri Lanka. Additionally, Qatar is offering fast-track e-gate access at Hamad International Airport, making it easier for Indian nationals to travel through one of the region’s busiest airports.

These changes reflect the growing importance of India’s expanding middle class and its increasing role in global travel. As India continues to rise as a major source of outbound tourism, many countries are seeking to make travel more accessible for Indian nationals, paving the way for stronger cultural and economic exchanges.

Cities Crack Down on Tourist Misconduct

As tourism grows, so does the need for responsible and respectful behavior from visitors. In response to problematic tourist behavior, cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, Sevilla, and Porto are taking a firm stance against public drinking, nudity, and disruptive behavior. New fines of up to €3,000 are being imposed, with the goal of preserving the dignity of public spaces and ensuring that tourism benefits both visitors and local communities.

Short-term rentals, often a source of frustration for locals, are also facing stricter enforcement. Many of these cities are cracking down on illegal short-term rentals, especially in high-traffic tourist neighborhoods, where they are seen as contributing to rising housing costs and overcrowding.

Rising Global Passport Rankings and Travel Safety

Meanwhile, global passport rankings are being updated, with Singapore, Japan, and Germany topping the list. The Henley Passport Index reveals that Singapore leads the world with visa-free access to 194 destinations, followed closely by Japan and Germany with access to 193. The UAE has seen a dramatic improvement, rising more than 50 places in the past decade and securing a spot among the top 15 passports globally.

As travel continues to rise, travelers are urged to stay informed about travel advisories and entry requirements for their destinations. For example, Canada has issued updated warnings for Costa Rica, Mexico, and Germany due to safety concerns related to theft, protests, and transit hubs. These warnings underscore the need for travelers to be vigilant and prepared before venturing abroad.

Conclusion: Navigating the Changing Global Travel Landscape

The travel industry is undergoing a major transformation, as countries introduce new regulations and policies to manage visitor numbers, ensure safety, and protect the environment. While U.S. airlines are expanding domestic routes, European and Middle Eastern destinations are tightening entry rules and implementing measures to combat overtourism. At the same time, countries are easing visa requirements for travelers from growing markets like India, opening the door to more accessible international travel.

As the world adapts to new travel dynamics, both travelers and destinations must be prepared to navigate these changes. Whether it’s adjusting to tighter entry rules in Europe or embracing new tourism opportunities in emerging markets, travelers need to stay informed and adaptable. With the right knowledge and preparation, the opportunities for exploration and cultural exchange remain abundant in 2025 and beyond.