Problems with Europe’s new EES system. The new EES system in Europe has reportedly caused terrible delays, as visitors wait in line for so long that many have missed their connecting flights. As a result, some European airlines have asked the European Union to pause the program until the kinks are worked out.
Yellowstone bison attack. A man stopped to take photos of bison in Yellowstone National Park when a bison charged him and then butted him eight feet into the air. He suffered severe injuries. The victim was at a distance of 100 feet or more from the bison at the time of the incident, which is the distance recommended by the Park. But apparently, this bison had been on a rampage already before the man arrived at the scene, unaware of what had been happening. Perhaps this will cause Yellowstone to request tourists keep an even greater distance from animals within the Park.
Venezuela earthquakes. The devastating death toll from the earthquakes in Venezuela in late June has risen to almost 4,500.
Turkey rejects LGBTQ+ cruise. A Virgin Voyages vessel called the Scarlet Lady was set to dock in Turkey during an itinerary from Athens to Venice, but Turkey suddenly banned it, saying it violated “moral standards” and “family values.”
Rome’s locals warn tourists. Apparently, there is a specific tourist trap in Rome that locals are warning tourists to avoid. They are restaurants that feature “nonnas” in windows facing the street while they make homemade pasta. Rome residents say these restaurants act like they’re authentic, but they’re anything but. Most of them are even open throughout the day and evening at times when locals would never dine. So be careful!
Deadly fire in Bangkok. On July 13th, a fire broke out in a Bangkok, Thailand beer hall that killed at least 27 people. Dozens more were injured. An inquiry is now looking at possible violations at the venue, including the blocking of fire exits.
New find in Egypt. A residential city from the Byzantine era in the 4th century has been found in the western desert of Egypt. They found streets, squares, watchtowers, and a basilica church.
Uber change. Uber is implementing more extensive background checks of its drivers and will permanently ban those with misdemeanor or felony stalking, strangulation, or sexually related offenses. The checks will be for drivers’ entire life. Up until now, Uber only checked for the seven previous years. In retrospect, that’s disturbing, so I’m glad they’re making this change.
United Airlines loses bid to dismiss lawsuit. A lawsuit was filed against United Airlines that complains some seats have no windows even though they were advertised as window seats. United tried to get the lawsuit thrown out, but the judge rejected that and will allow the suit to go forward.
Delta’s new Basic Business fare. This new fare is only available on some routes, but you could potentially get a business class seat for less if you give up Delta One Lounge access, accept fewer SkyMiles and no lie-flat suite, and agree to pay a fee if you change your flight. This sounds like a good deal to me depending on the cost.
Delta flight hit by fireworks. Speaking of Delta, on July 4th, a flight approaching Chicago’s Midway Airport was hit by a firework. Several houses were setting them off in the neighborhood at the time, and since the plane was close to the runway, it was low enough to be hit. Luckily, the plane was able to land safely, and it was taken out of service in order to be checked out. No word on whether or not it sustained damages.
Banyan Tree news. The famed Banyan Tree resorts has opened its first European property on Montenegro’s Boka Bay, Mamula Island.
New find in Egypt. A residential city from the Byzantine era in the 4th century has been found in the western desert of Egypt. They found streets, squares, watchtowers, and a basilica church.
Dracula theme park. Bucharest, Romania is planning to open a Dracula theme park either later this year or next year. It will have more than 40 attractions, including rollercoasters and Gothic castles. Sounds like great fun!
Canada’s Gordie Howe Bridge. It’s official! The new Gordie Howe International Bridge opens July 27th, joining Detroit and Windsor, Ontario.
Melanie Votaw is the Publisher and Executive Travel Writer of LuxuryWeb Magazine. She has visited more than 50 countries on 6 continents and written for such magazines as Executive Travel, Just Luxe, Business Insider, South China Morning Post, Travel Mindset, and more. She is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association, New York Travel Writers Association, and International Travel Writers Alliance. Melanie's photography has won awards, and she has also written 43 nonfiction books as either the author or ghostwriter.
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