Streamlining the Visitor Experience

Unsurprisingly, this new policy is designed to manage the massive crowds that flock to the monument during peak seasons, ultimately improving the experience for every visitor.

Beginning this fall, groups will no longer be able to purchase tickets directly at the monument’s ticket windows as they have in the past. Instead, they must use the official authorized booking site.

On the other hand, there are no changes planned for individual travelers. If you are visiting solo or with a small family, you can still buy your tickets on-site for same-day admission.

The Eiffel Tower: The World’s Most Replicated Monument

Between the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower, most experts agree that France’s iconic landmark is the most copied monument in the world, narrowly beating out its New York counterpart.

It’s an impressive feat for a structure that only opened in 1889. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the Paris World’s Fair, the tower was initially loathed by many French artists and intellectuals. They viewed the 984-foot metallic structure as an eyesore and even campaigned for its demolition.

However, as is often the case with bold new projects in France, once the controversy settled, the Eiffel Tower skyrocketed in popularity. It quickly became the globally recognized symbol of Paris and France. Today, it remains one of the world’s most visited—and therefore most imitated—tourist attractions.

From China, Mexico, and Bolivia to Indonesia, Pakistan, and various corners of Europe, the Eiffel Tower is everywhere. But it has found its most famous second home in the United States. The Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino on the Strip offers a concentrated (and perhaps a bit kitschy) version of Parisian life as imagined from across the Atlantic.

Opened in 1999, the Paris Las Vegas is a titan of the Strip. With nearly 86,000 square feet of gaming space, a vast “French-themed” shopping mall, 2,916 rooms, and over 4,000 employees, it is one of the city’s largest resorts. It is also one of the most recognizable, thanks to its 541-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower—exactly half the height of the original—which features a stunning observation deck at the top.

As for how a replica of the French icon ended up in the Nevada desert? It dates back to the 1990s when Line Renaud, a legendary French singer and Las Vegas fixture, personally asked the then-Mayor of Paris, Jean Tiberi, for permission to let a second Eiffel Tower take center stage in the middle of Las Vegas.

Expected Later This Year

While the specific details and an official launch date have yet to be finalized, the project is gaining momentum and is expected to take effect sometime this year. The ultimate goal is for every traveler to provide proof of insurance covering medical expenses before they even depart for Thailand.

Alternatively, authorities are considering an automatic entry fee—rumored to be less than $11 (€10)—which would function as a flat tax to provide every visitor with basic healthcare coverage.

This move is largely driven by the financial strain on hospitals in major tourist hubs like Phuket and Chiang Mai, which currently face massive annual deficits. Nationwide, unpaid medical bills are estimated to exceed $2.7 million (€2.5 million) annually, often resulting from scooter or diving accidents. These mounting costs have significantly weakened the Thai healthcare system, prompting the government to seek a sustainable solution.

Current Entry Requirements for Thailand

To encourage tourism, Thailand has recently streamlined its entry process for many nationalities, including American, British, and European travelers.

Currently, if you are traveling for tourism, you only need a passport in good condition that is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. U.S. citizens can stay for up to 60 days visa-free (an increase from the previous 30-day limit). You may also be asked to show proof of a return or onward flight, and occasionally, proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

It is also important to note that since 2025, the old paper arrival forms have been phased out in favor of a digital system. This is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Every traveler, regardless of nationality or mode of transport, must complete this free online registration at least 24 hours before arrival. The only exception is for passengers who are only transiting through a Thai airport.

As a result, many carriers have reached a breaking point. To stay afloat or minimize losses, they are being forced to hike ticket prices, overhaul their flight paths, and slash flight volumes. For travelers, this means more than just “sticker shock” at checkout; it presents a real risk of last-minute cancellations and reduced flight frequencies in the coming days, weeks, and months.

Here is a snapshot of how the industry is reacting across the globe:

Across Europe

• Air France: Surprisingly, the French flag carrier is currently less impacted than its peers. This is because they successfully “hedged” their fuel costs—locking in lower rates for the current half-year before the crisis hit. While ticket prices are still rising and domestic frequencies are being trimmed, major cancellations are currently unlikely (with the exception of routes to Cuba and parts of the Gulf).
• KLM: The Dutch carrier is the latest to scale back operations. Roughly 160 European flights scheduled for May have been scrapped, as they are no longer “financially viable” given current fuel prices.
• Lufthansa: The German giant recently announced the grounding of its CityLine subsidiary. Its fleet of around 30 aircraft was deemed too old and fuel-thirsty to remain profitable in this environment.
• Norse Atlantic: This long-haul low-cost carrier will not be operating its summer service between Los Angeles (LAX) and several European capitals, including Paris.
• Ryanair: The budget king has warned passengers to expect a 5% to 10% reduction in its flight schedule between May and July.
• SAS: The Scandinavian carrier was among the first to react, canceling a thousand flights in April—primarily across its Nordic network—with similar cuts expected to follow.
• Volotea: The low-cost carrier has already reduced several regional routes, notably those serving Corsica, citing the Middle East crisis and soaring fuel overheads.

Around the World

• American Airlines: Despite trying to hold the line, the US powerhouse is now consolidating traffic into its primary hubs and abandoning secondary routes for both domestic and international service.
• Delta Air Lines: Starting this month, Delta has cut numerous domestic rotations, a move mirrored by several other major US carriers and budget airlines.
• United Airlines: United was the first major US carrier to react aggressively, slashing its flight volume by 5% as early as March.
• Air New Zealand: The carrier has trimmed its domestic and regional networks while simultaneously raising fares. Expect about a 5% reduction in overall activity until market conditions stabilize.
• Cathay Pacific: The Hong Kong-based airline and its subsidiaries have cut their flight schedules by 5% to 6% for the May and June period.
• Gulf Carriers: Being in close proximity to the conflict, carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways are facing massive disruptions. Despite their location, they still purchase fuel at market rates. Currently, Emirates has seen a third of its flights affected, while Qatar Airways has had to cancel or reschedule up to three-quarters of its operations, leading to significant price hikes for passengers.
• African Airlines: Due to infrastructure challenges, aviation fuel is often more expensive in Africa than elsewhere. Local carriers are struggling, with many reducing flight volumes. In Nigeria, some airlines are even considering a total suspension of domestic service in the near future.
• Chinese Airlines: Most are pivoting away from “secondary” direct flights, choosing instead to funnel passengers through major hubs toward only their most profitable destinations.
• Indian Airlines: For the moment, Indian carriers have chosen to pass the cost directly to the consumer with heavy price increases rather than cutting routes. However, industry analysts suggest this strategy may not be sustainable for long.
• Vietnam Airlines: The carrier has significantly reduced or suspended most domestic routes and several non-priority international flights, a measure expected to last for several months.

Additional Travel Risks

Beyond fuel costs, several routes are being suspended or heavily restricted due to the inherent risks of flying near conflict zones. This includes travel to Israel and various Gulf airports.

Furthermore, travel to Cuba is becoming increasingly difficult. Several Canadian carriers, Spain’s Iberia, and even Air France have recently announced they are abandoning service to Havana for the time being, citing both economic and operational challenges.

Whether you’re wondering about the best way to get local currency or how much a bowl of street-side Pho will set you back, we’ve got the answers for your upcoming Vietnamese adventure.

Understanding Currency in Vietnam

First things first: the local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Today, it exists almost exclusively in paper (or more accurately, polymer) banknotes. While coins technically exist in denominations of 200 to 5,000 dongs, they have been rendered obsolete by inflation and are rarely seen in daily transactions.

Expect to carry a lot of bills and—momentarily at least—become a millionaire! Banknotes range from 1,000 to 500,000 dongs. To give you some perspective, a 500,000 VND bill is worth approximately $20 USD (around £16).

Where to Exchange Money

Currency exchange booths, banks, and authorized money changers are everywhere in major cities and tourist hubs. Interestingly, you can often get some of the best rates at local jewelry shops or through hotels and travel agencies.

Pro-tips for exchanging:

• Compare rates: Don’t settle for the first booth you see at the airport.
• Check the condition: Ensure the USD or EUR bills you bring are crisp and clean; many places will refuse torn or heavily creased notes.
• Ask for small bills: Large denominations are hard to break for small purchases like street food or water.
• Watch the zeros: It’s easy to confuse a 50,000 bill with a 500,000 bill at a glance. Always double-check your change!

The ATM Dilemma

While ATMs have sprouted up across the country, they aren’t always the most efficient way to get cash. Most Vietnamese ATMs have a relatively low withdrawal limit—often less than $100 (£80) per transaction.

Between the local machine fees and the foreign transaction fees from your home bank, those small withdrawals can add up quickly. Treat ATMs as a “last resort” or a backup rather than your primary source of cash.

Which Currency Should You Bring?

The US Dollar (USD) is the most widely accepted foreign currency. In the tourism sector—hotels, tours, and high-end restaurants—prices are often quoted in USD. Euros (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) are also easily exchangeable in cities, but the Dollar remains the “gold standard” for travelers here.

Ways to Pay: Cash, Card, and Apps

• Cash is King: While hotels and modern boutiques accept major credit cards (including contactless), you’ll need cash for markets, street food, and smaller guesthouses.
• Digital Payments: Locals use QR code payments (like MoMo) everywhere. However, these usually require a local bank account.
• The Grab Exception: For transportation, download the Grab app (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber). You can link your international credit card to the app, allowing you to pay for rides and food deliveries seamlessly without needing physical cash.
• The Exit Strategy: The Dong has no value outside of Vietnam. Try to spend your remaining cash or exchange it back to USD/EUR at the airport before you fly out.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Vietnam remains one of the most affordable destinations for Western travelers. If you are traveling as a couple on a backpacker budget, you can comfortably get by on $45 to $55 per day. For those seeking a bit more comfort and mid-range amenities, a budget of $65 to $90 per day is usually plenty.

Note on Visas: For US and UK citizens, you will likely need an e-visa before arrival. Ensure you factor in the $25 application fee when planning your initial costs.

Price Breakdown

To give you a better idea of what things cost on the ground, here is a quick breakdown (estimated in USD and GBP):

• Budget Guesthouse (Double Room): $11 – $17 (£9 – £13)
• Mid-range Hotel (Double Room): $33 – $45 (£26 – £35)
• Street Food or Local Market Meal: $2.50 – $3.50 (£2 – £2.75)
• Tourist Restaurant (Full Meal): $17 – $22 (£13 – £17)
• Car with Private Driver (Full Day): $65 – $110 (£50 – £85)
• Bicycle Rental (Day): Under $6 (£4.50)
• Motorbike/Scooter Rental (Day): $9 – $13 (£7 – £10)
• Local Bus or Train: $2.50 – $3.50 per 60 miles (£2 – £2.75)
• Domestic Flight (One-way): $55 – $110 (£43 – £85)
• Halong Bay Day Trip: $45 – $65 per person (£35 – £50)

What Might Break the Bank?

• The Tet Festival: During the Vietnamese New Year (late January to February), prices for transport and accommodation skyrocket, and many shops close.
• Halong Bay Cruises: While a must-do, high-end overnight cruises can take a significant bite out of a modest budget.
• Western Luxuries: Imported goods, wine, and Western-standard luxury services are priced similarly to what you’d find at home.

Bargaining and Tipping

Bargaining: This is a standard part of the culture in souvenir shops and markets. A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 50% of the initial asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. Be aware that “tourist prices” exist; if a price seems high, it probably is.

Tipping: Tipping isn’t strictly expected in local bars or restaurants, but it is highly appreciated. For tour guides, it is customary to tip around $6 – $7 per day, and about half that for private drivers. It’s also polite to leave a small donation in the collection boxes at temples and pagodas.

A five-month hiatus

In total, the site was closed for five months of renovation work. Reopening this April, the Catacombs have been modernised to enhance the visitor experience for the 600,000 people who flock there every year.

The ossuary now boasts upgraded technical facilities and more efficient ventilation, alongside structural reinforcements designed to better preserve the site and the millions of remains it holds. These updates ensure the Catacombs can continue to welcome visitors for many years to come.

The remains of six million people

This eerie Parisian site is the largest underground ossuary in existence. Originally former limestone quarries, the tunnels were converted into an ossuary in the late 18th century to house the remains of approximately six million people. These remains were transferred from various Paris cemeteries that had become dangerously overcrowded—a move dictated at the time by “public health” concerns.

Since then, the site has never ceased to fascinate the curious, evolving into a key Parisian landmark managed by the Musée Carnavalet (the museum dedicated to the history of Paris). Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors explore these tunnels—steeped in macabre legends—on strictly supervised tours.

Practical Information

A typical visit lasts about an hour, following a one-way circuit of roughly 1.5 kilometres. You’ll find yourself some 20 metres below the streets of Paris in a constant temperature of 14°C.

The entrance is located at Place Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th arrondissement. The site is open daily (except Mondays) from 9:45 am to 8:30 pm. Tickets are priced at €31 for full admission, which includes an audio guide. Given its popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended during the peak season.

Three Seats, One Bed

The concept is straightforward: a row of three seats is fitted with special leg rests that lift up 90 degrees. Once raised, they align with the seat cushion to create a wide, flat surface, effectively turning the row into a small sofa or a makeshift bed. The space is even large enough to accommodate two adults and a child—a welcome change for Economy cabins, which can often feel like the “poor relation” of airline travel.

This innovation is designed for passengers who want a bit of extra comfort or privacy on long-haul journeys but aren’t ready to fork out for Business Class. United is aiming the “Relax Row” at families with young children, couples, and solo travellers who want to book out an entire row to sleep flat-out.

What’s Included?

To make things even cosier, these rows will come with a dedicated “comfort kit” featuring a mattress topper, blanket, and pillows.

However, availability will be somewhat limited initially. There will be a maximum of a dozen such rows on each of the airline’s 200 wide-body aircraft, and they will be available for an extra fee. The surcharge will vary depending on whether the space is being used by one, two, or three passengers.

While the idea isn’t entirely brand new—Air New Zealand has offered its similar “Skycouch” for some time—United is confident it will find a following. If it takes off, this could very well become the new standard for the world’s longest flight routes.

The End of the Grace Period

Beyond the price hike, the other major update regarding the ETA is that the “tolerance period” has officially ended. Since late February, there is no longer any leniency for those who may have “forgotten” to apply, and no exceptions will be made.

This means that airlines, rail operators, and ferry companies have been given firm instructions to deny boarding to any passenger who does not have this document. Furthermore, the requirement also applies to those transiting through UK airports—even if you don’t plan on leaving the international zone. It’s certainly not something you want to overlook before you head to the departure gate.

A Quick Refresher on the ETA

This digital authorisation is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport and remains valid for two years, or until the passport expires—whichever comes first. It allows for multiple entries into the UK, with a limit of six months per stay.

The application process is handled through the official UK government website or their dedicated app. In practice, you’ll need to upload your passport details and a digital photo, then pay the fee online. While approval is usually granted within minutes, it is still highly recommended to apply at least three working days in advance just in case of any unexpected delays. As for the cost, it is now £20, or approximately €25.

Fewer crowds, higher costs, and better environmental protection

These three pillars summarise Nepal’s strategy to refine and accelerate measures introduced in recent years.

Permit numbers have already been reduced, and prices have skyrocketed. For foreign mountaineers, a permit now costs $15,000 per person during the peak spring season (March to May). This price halves for the autumn window (September to November) and drops to $3,750 for the rest of the year. These hikes have officially made Everest the most expensive peak in the world to climb.

Despite sitting at 8,849 metres, the world’s highest peak sees a steady stream of expeditions. While climbers visit throughout the year, the “prime” windows remain March–May and September–December. This popularity has led to dangerous bottlenecks near the summit, posing significant risks at such extreme altitudes. Furthermore, parts of the mountain are increasingly being described as an open-air rubbish dump, leading to severe environmental degradation. This is precisely why a new set of measures is being planned for 2027.

New requirements for 2027

By this date, every expedition will be required to be accompanied by accredited local guides. More importantly—to deter inexperienced amateurs from attempting the feat—climbers will have to prove they have already summited a peak of over 7,000 metres within Nepal. They will also need to provide a recent medical certificate and a detailed ascent plan.

Reports also suggest that new legislation will require every climber to bring back at least 8kg of waste—roughly the amount an individual produces during an ascent. To ensure compliance, a security deposit of approximately $4,000 per person may be required, which the authorities will retain if the rules aren’t met. It’s a firm stance, but one that is arguably long overdue.

Up to 180 Days Visa-Free

As mentioned, for standard tourism, Mexico’s entry requirements are relatively flexible. British citizens, along with many other nationalities, do not require a visa for stays of less than 180 days. You simply need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, as well as proof of a return or onward journey.

The Multiple Migratory Form (FMM)

In addition to your passport, you will need a “Multiple Migratory Form” (FMM). If you are flying into major hubs like Mexico City or Cancun, this is now largely automated via electronic gates (E-gates), which issue a digital receipt upon arrival.

However, if you are arriving by land, you must still complete this formality in advance online or, as a last resort, at the customs office at the border. In this case, you will receive a paper form and a physical stamp in your passport—be sure to check you have this, otherwise, you may face a fine when leaving the country.

Regardless of how you arrive, the immigration authorities will determine your permitted length of stay during this process. While the visa-free limit is 180 days, this is not granted automatically to everyone; the final decision rests with the official or the system at the point of entry.

It is vital to keep your FMM receipt (digital or paper) with you at all times. It may be requested during spot checks and is required to exit the country. Losing it is a headache you’ll want to avoid, as it usually results in a penalty fine of around £35 (€40).

The Quintana Roo “Visitax”

If your itinerary includes the state of Quintana Roo—home to popular spots like Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel—you must pay a mandatory tourist tax known as Visitax. This costs approximately £13 (€15) and can be paid online via the official state government website before you arrive, during your stay, or just before departure. Always keep your proof of payment handy to avoid further fines during exit checks.

Planning a Long-Term Stay

For those looking to spend an extended period in Mexico, the first step is to try and secure the full 180-day allowance upon entry. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a “Temporary Resident” visa, which allows stays of between one and four years (subject to proving financial self-sufficiency). Crucially, this application must be initiated at a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico.

Some travellers rely on the “Visa Run”—leaving the country just before their time expires and re-entering immediately to “reset the clock.” While this is a common practice, it is not an official right. Immigration officers can refuse entry at their discretion, and there is no formal appeal process if you are turned away.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Overstaying or failing to produce the correct paperwork usually starts with a standard fine of about £35 (€40) if caught at the airport upon departure. However, for longer overstays or if you are caught during a random inland check, the consequences can be much more severe, including higher fines, administrative detention, or even deportation and a future ban on entering the country. Furthermore, being “undocumented” can unfortunately make you a target for opportunistic local police intervention.

From Vietnam to New Zealand: A Global Shortage

Of all the nations grappling with fuel scarcity and skyrocketing prices, Vietnam is perhaps the most striking case.

On one hand, the national carrier, Vietnam Airlines, is in robust financial health, boasting ambitious expansion plans and a clear drive to increase its global footprint. On the other, the country’s fuel supply chain is precariously linked to Iranian oil. While this dependency isn’t direct—Vietnam primarily sources its fuel through Thailand and China—those two key suppliers are heavily reliant on the Iranian market.

With Thailand and China moving to halt exports to Vietnam, the national carrier and its domestic competitors are facing a looming kerosene deficit as early as next month. Consequently, Vietnam Airlines is considering a drastic reduction, or even a total suspension, of most domestic routes and several non-essential international services. These cuts are expected to last several months or until market stability returns. For travellers, this inevitably means fewer options and almost certain fare hikes on the remaining flights.

A Worldwide Ripple Effect

Vietnam is far from alone in this predicament. In the South Pacific, Air New Zealand has just announced significant cuts to its domestic and regional networks, alongside price increases. Estimates suggest around 5% of the airline’s total operations will be affected, impacting tens of thousands of passengers.

Across the Atlantic, US giants United, American Airlines, and Delta are bracing for “explosive” fuel bills. Much like their international counterparts, they are anticipating a necessary scale-back in activity to offset these surging overheads.

The outlook in Europe is equally sobering. While French carriers and major low-cost airlines have yet to announce official cuts, industry insiders suggest a reduction in traffic is increasingly likely in the coming weeks. Some, however, have already blinked: SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) is set to cancel approximately 1,000 flights in April, primarily across its Nordic network.

It is a frustrating paradox for the modern traveller: just as global demand for air travel reaches new heights, the industry is being forced to contract under the weight of geopolitical reality.