NPR's 2025 U.S. travel guide highlights a diverse array of destinations, from iconic landmarks like Mardi Gras World and Paisley Park to natural wonders such as Dolly Sods Wilderness and the Nolichucky River Gorge, as well as quirky sites like the World's Largest Chest of Drawers and Glass Beach, offering a mix of cultural, outdoor, and offbeat experiences across the country.
Due to the ongoing US government shutdown, 40 major airports including New York, LA, and Chicago will see flight reductions starting Friday, potentially canceling up to 1,800 flights, as safety measures amid staffing shortages are implemented. The shutdown has led to significant staffing issues among air traffic controllers, raising concerns about safety and travel disruptions during the busy holiday season.
Canadian tourism to the U.S. has sharply declined by 37% in July 2025, largely due to deteriorating relations under President Trump, including tariffs and threats of annexation, leading to significant economic losses and fewer trips across the border.
The Trump administration's new bill introduces a $250 visa integrity fee for nonimmigrant travelers to the US, which cannot be waived but is reimbursable if visa conditions are met. The fee aims to generate significant revenue and reduce the federal deficit, with implementation details and start dates still unclear. Most travelers are expected to be eligible for reimbursement, and the fee is designed to minimally impact high-income travelers.
The U.S. has introduced a new $250 'visa integrity fee' for nonimmigrant travelers, which is expected to generate nearly $29 billion over ten years and help reduce the federal deficit. The fee is refundable for travelers who comply with visa conditions and is part of the broader 'One Big Beautiful Bill' legislation.
A recent Tripadvisor report highlights the top 10 most popular domestic summer destinations in the U.S., with Las Vegas and New York City ranking as the top two, and Florida cities like Key West and Clearwater also highly favored for their mix of city life and natural attractions.
International travelers are increasingly opting out of trips to the U.S. due to concerns about gun violence, safety, and homelessness. Uneaka Daniels, a Bermuda-born traveler, has been turned off by her experiences and the rise of mass shootings. The U.S. ranked 17th out of the top 18 travel markets, with safety being a major factor. Lax gun laws and the prevalence of firearms at TSA checkpoints are also deterring travelers. The sentiment of safety in the U.S. is hard to shake for many international travelers, who are influenced by what they see on the news or social media.