This Week in Travel: Exploring Europe, Caribbean Escapes, and Cutting-Edge Passports

 


In this week's travel news, we bring you insights on why now is the opportune time to explore Europe, a curated list of Caribbean islands for your bucket list, and an innovative Nordic initiative revolutionizing travel documentation.


The Future of Travel Tech


Digital passports are taking flight, starting with a groundbreaking pilot program led by the Finnish Border Guard. Passengers on select Finnair flights can now expedite their passage through border control by pre-registering a digital version of their passport.


This forward-thinking initiative is set to inspire similar advancements in destinations worldwide. Just last week, Singapore's Changi Airport unveiled plans to go passport-free by 2024. This announcement further solidifies Singapore's standing as the holder of the world's most potent passport in 2023, granting its citizens unparalleled travel access.


Welcoming Fall Travel


Embrace the autumn chill with your favorite turtleneck and embark on a journey adorned with pumpkins and cozy pumpkin lattes. Fall is the preferred season for savvy travelers, offering Europe's premier destinations in a state of serene tranquility after the bustling summer months.


With balmy beachside temperatures and snug harvest festivals, the season presents an array of choices. For a scenic drive amidst nature's vivid palette, explore six enchanting routes across the United States.


If you're planning a woodland escape, our partners at CNN Underscored have compiled a list of essential items, from a well-equipped picnic backpack to waterproof binoculars.


Caribbean Island Escapes


October ushers in the Caribbean's low season, presenting an ideal window for exploring islands beyond the hurricane belt, such as the idyllic Bonaire. This Dutch Caribbean gem is renowned for its scuba diving opportunities, boasting over 20 beaches across its 111 square miles of paradise.


For those planning a Caribbean getaway during the high season (December to April), choosing from hundreds of islands can be overwhelming. Our curated selection of the top nine islands should simplify your decision-making process, assuring you of an unforgettable experience in a turquoise haven.


Culinary and Hospitality Delights


Spain emerges as a haven for gastronomes, boasting more of the world's top 50 restaurants than any other country. Dive into our guide for a culinary journey through Spain, discovering the finest dining establishments and their delectable offerings.


Meanwhile, for those who relish luxurious accommodations, London beckons with the debut of two extraordinary hotels. The historic war office in Whitehall, once frequented by Winston Churchill, has been transformed into the opulent Raffles London. Additionally, the esteemed Peninsula chain from Asia has made its grand entrance in the UK capital, nestled near Hyde Park. Prices commence at a lavish $1,600 per night.


Feathered Friends and Time-Honored Traditions


While the Tower of London boasts its ravenmaster, The Peabody Hotel in Memphis takes pride in its duckmaster. Leading five waterfowl from their rooftop sanctuary, known as the Duck Palace, to the hotel lobby, this time-honored ceremony has been captivating tourists for an impressive 90 years.