Travel News March 2025

Spring break is just around the corner, and millions of Americans are preparing for one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. This year, popular domestic destinations include Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa, while international travelers are expected to travel to Rome, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. However, with demand surging, travelers should brace for higher prices. AAA reports that domestic flights have risen by 7%, international flights by 2%, and hotel rates by up to 8%, depending on the location.

For those heading to Mexico, the U.S. Embassy has issued a travel advisory urging caution in popular tourist areas like Cancun and Tulum. Travelers are reminded that drug and weapon possession is strictly illegal, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of crime, assault, and accidents. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department just published a list of Dos and Don’ts advising all international travelers to check passport expiration dates, research entry requirements, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety updates. Explore more.

To stay safe and avoid travel mishaps, the State Department has outlined key precautions for Americans abroad. They advise against visiting destinations with Level 4 travel advisories, which indicate extreme safety risks, and remind travelers to remain vigilant about personal security. Simple precautions such as avoiding drinks from strangers, staying aware of local laws, and keeping an eye on personal belongings, can go a long way in preventing theft or dangerous situations.

With airlines expecting to carry 173 million passengers between March and April, timing and planning are crucial. Experts suggest flying on Tuesdays for lower fares and avoiding peak travel days like April 2, one of the busiest of the season. Southwest Airlines alone anticipates flying over 8.2 million passengers, with March 20 predicted to be its heaviest travel day. Whether heading to the beach, the slopes, or a bustling city, staying informed and booking early can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable spring break.

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March travel is off to a rough start as two major storm systems create chaos across the U.S. and southeastern Canada. Heavy rain and rapid snowmelt are triggering widespread flooding in cities like New York, Boston, Toronto, and Montreal, causing flight cancellations, road closures, and public transit delays. Meanwhile, in the central and eastern U.S., powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricane-force winds up to 100 mph are threatening major travel hubs, particularly in Louisiana, Mississippi, the Carolinas, and key Mardi Gras destinations like New Orleans.

Airports including LaGuardia (LGA), Logan (BOS), Pearson (YYZ), and Charlotte Douglas (CLT) are bracing for delays and cancellations due to strong winds and hazardous conditions. Flooded highways and downed trees are making road travel dangerous, while public transit systems in New York, Boston, and Montreal face possible shutdowns. Authorities are urging travelers to check weather updates, have backup plans, and avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk areas.

With severe weather expected to continue, travelers should stay flexible and prepared for disruptions. Airlines and transit agencies are working to manage delays, but impacts could extend beyond the storms as cities recover. Whether flying, driving, or attending Mardi Gras celebrations, staying informed and prioritizing safety is essential.

The highly anticipated third season of The White Lotus is already making waves, and Thailand is reaping the benefits. Following the show's past success in Hawaii and Sicily, where tourism spiked by 300%, Thailand is experiencing a similar surge in interest. Even before the season premiered, the country welcomed 5.5 million foreign visitors in early 2024. Now, with the show airing, luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Koh Samui, where much of the season was filmed, have seen bookings jump by 40%. Searches for other filming locations, including Phuket and Chiang Mai, have also risen significantly, demonstrating the power of the "White Lotus Effect."

The Thai government and tourism industry are embracing the show’s impact. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is confident that the series will highlight the country’s beauty and cultural richness while attracting a new wave of visitors. As part of this effort, the TAT will launch a White Lotus-themed website to guide travelers to featured destinations. Major airlines are also capitalizing on the moment, with Bangkok Airways increasing its daily flights and Finnair boosting routes to Thailand to accommodate the rising demand from European travelers.

Beyond its influence on travel, The White Lotus Season 3 is showcasing Thailand’s breathtaking landscapes, from Koh Samui’s luxury resorts to the historic Wat Pu Khao Thong monastery. The government has also increased tax rebates for foreign film projects, a move that helped secure The White Lotus over other potential filming destinations like Japan. With the Thai tourism sector aiming to surpass pre-pandemic visitor numbers, targeting 40 million foreign tourists in 2025, the show’s global exposure is proving to be a strategic win.

In 2024, Thailand implemented visa exemptions for citizens of 93 countries including the United States, allowing stays of up to 60 days. The country has also launched the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), a 5-year visa designed with digital nomads and remote workers in mind.

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Amsterdam is set to mark an extraordinary milestone on October 27, 2025, its 750th anniversary! To celebrate, the city has planned a full year of events highlighting its rich history, vibrant culture, and forward-thinking spirit. Kicking off in March, the anniversary agenda will feature immersive neighborhood festivals, grand maritime spectacles, and cultural showcases, giving visitors countless ways to experience this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

One of the first major events is 24 Hours Amsterdam, which will spotlight different districts of the city throughout the year. Beginning on March 22 in Centrum, this rotating celebration will see theaters, museums, and local businesses opening their doors for workshops, performances, and behind-the-scenes tours. Meanwhile, Future Fest, running from June 12 to 21, will offer a glimpse into Amsterdam’s evolution, concluding with an unprecedented transformation of the busy Ring A10 highway into a massive performance space.

For those drawn to Amsterdam’s maritime heritage, SAIL Amsterdam 2025 will be a must-see. Held only once every five years, this spectacular event will bring an impressive fleet of tall ships to the city’s waters from August 20 to 24. Coinciding with both Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary and the festival’s own 50th year, SAIL promises to be an unforgettable tribute to the city’s seafaring legacy. Visitors arriving earlier in the year can also take part in King’s Day on April 27, one of Europe’s largest street celebrations, featuring music, flea markets, and legendary canal parties.

Beyond historical and cultural events, Amsterdam will continue to cement its status as a global capital of diversity and entertainment. Queer & Pride Amsterdam (July 26–August 3) will bring the city to life with parades, parties, and thought-provoking discussions, while the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in October will once again welcome electronic music lovers for five days of world-class performances. Whether you’re exploring Amsterdam’s past, present, or future, the city’s 750th-anniversary celebrations promise something for everyone.

With a year full of unforgettable experiences, planning ahead is essential. Ensure your trip is worry-free by getting travel insurance with Trawick International before embarking on your Amsterdam adventure.

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