Liberia: Royal Air Maroc To Launch Africa’s First Direct Flight To U.S. West Coast In 2026

In a major leap for African aviation, Morocco’s national airline, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), announced on Thursday that it will inaugurate a historic nonstop route between Casablanca and Los Angeles beginning June 7, 2026.

The service Africa’s first direct air link to the U.S. Pacific Coast marks a significant expansion in global connectivity and positions Morocco as a central bridge between Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

A Milestone 12-Hour Direct Connection

According to the airline, the new route will operate three times per week and offer a flight time of approximately 12 hours, making it one of RAM’s longest intercontinental services.

The launch comes amid rapidly rising transatlantic travel demand and just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The U.S. hosted over 70 million international visitors in 2023, with West Coast tourism rebounding strongly conditions RAM aims to leverage.

Targeting Diaspora, Tourists, and World Cup Travelers

RAM says the service primarily targets:

The Moroccan and African diaspora in the U.S.

American leisure travelers

Business communities across the Pacific Rim

Football supporters heading to the 2026 World Cup, expected to draw up to 5 million international fans

“This direct route to Los Angeles is much more than a new destination. It is a historic milestone for the airline and for Africa’s air connectivity,” said Hamid Addou, RAM’s Chairman and CEO.

He emphasized that the expansion aligns with Morocco’s strategy to strengthen tourism, investment flows, and cultural linkages with the United States already one of Morocco’s fastest-growing visitor markets.

Strengthening Casablanca as a Continental Aviation Hub

With this addition, Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport reinforces its role as one of Africa’s top air hubs.

Prior to the announcement, the airport handled over 10 million passengers annually, connecting more than 100 destinations worldwide.

RAM currently serves five major cities in North America—New York, Washington, Miami, Montreal, and Toronto.

The Los Angeles route becomes the airline’s sixth North American destination and its first on the U.S. West Coast.

The rollout also complements RAM’s broader long-term development plan, which includes:

Expanding the fleet to more than 200 aircraft by 2037

Opening new long-haul destinations in the Americas, Middle East, and Asia

Increasing frequencies on strategic routes such as São Paulo, Dubai, Miami, and Washington

Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Serve the Route

Flights will be operated using Boeing 787 Dreamliners, a modern aircraft family known for:

Lower fuel consumption

Larger cabin windows

Enhanced humidity and pressurization systems

Improved passenger comfort and reduced jet lag

The 787 fleet has been central to RAM’s global expansion strategy, enabling longer nonstop routes while maintaining competitive operating costs.

Flight Schedule

Casablanca → Los Angeles

Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays

Departure: 04:00

Arrival: 08:20 (same day)

Los Angeles → Casablanca

Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays

Departure: 10:20

Arrival: 05:25 (next day)

Boosting Morocco’s Global Reach Before 2030 World Cup

The announcement further strengthens Morocco’s international profile ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

Improved air accessibility is expected to play a crucial role in positioning Morocco as a premier global tourism and investment destination.

With the new Casablanca–Los Angeles route, Royal Air Maroc confirms its ambition to remain one of Africa’s leading global carriers, helping connect the continent to major economic and cultural hubs around the world.
By: Julius Konton

Tourists From 42 Countries Will Have To Submit 5 Years Of Social Media History To Enter U.S. Under Trump Plan

The Trump administration is proposing to ask visitors from several dozen nations that enjoy visa-free travel to the U.S. to submit additional personal information before entering the country, including five years of their social media history, the Department of Homeland Security said in a notice this week.

Citizens of 42 countries enrolled in the visa waiver program can generally come to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business travel, without needing to apply for a visa at an American embassy or consulate, a process that can take months or even years.

The list of countries in the visa waiver program includes many European nations like the United Kingdom, Germany and France, as well as some U.S. allies around the world, including Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

While citizens of these nations typically don't need visas to travel to the U.S., they still have to submit an application online using a process known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, before entering the country. That system is designed to ensure applicants are eligible for visa-free travel to the U.S., and that they don't pose security concerns.

The Trump administration is proposing to overhaul the ESTA system, mainly to transform it into a mobile-only process. The plan would require applicants to share additional information about themselves and their relatives, according to a notice posted in the federal government's journal of regulations by Customs and Border Protection, a branch of DHS.

The notice said CBP plans to ask visa waiver travelers to share their social media history for the past five years, emails they have used for the past 10 years and the personal information of immediate family members, including phone numbers and residences. The submission of social media history from the last five years will be a mandatory requirement under the proposal, according to the notice.

CBP said the changes, which still have to be reviewed by the White House's budget office, are designed to enforce an executive order President Trump issued earlier this year with the stated objective of denying entry to foreigners who may pose a threat to national security or public safety.

But critics of the proposed changes said they could scare prospective travelers and negatively impact tourism, especially months before the U.S. hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Canada and Mexico, next summer.

Over the past year, the Trump administration has mounted an aggressive effort to increase vetting and screening procedures across the U.S. immigration system.

While the State Department has moved to scrutinize visa applicants overseas more heavily, some of the changes affect people already in the U.S. who are applying to stay in the country legally through applications for asylum, green cards or American citizenship.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has instructed officials to investigate the social media history of several classes of immigrants, including for views and activities deemed to be "anti-American." It has also directed adjudicators to more intensely probe the "good moral character" of legal immigrants requesting U.S. citizenship.

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

What To Know About Changes To Disney Parks’ Disability Policies

Changes that Disney made to a popular program that lets qualifying disabled people skip long lines at its California and Florida theme parks are too restrictive, disabled fans contend in a federal lawsuit and shareholder proposal that seek to expand eligibility.

Guests arrive at Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., June 15, 2016. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)

The battle over who can skip long lines on popular rides because of their disabilities marks the latest struggle by Disney to accommodate disabled visitors while cracking down on past abuses. But some Disney fans say the company has gone too far and has no right to determine who is disabled.

“This isn’t right. This isn’t what Walt and Roy would have wanted,” said Shannon Bonadurer, referring to the Disney brothers who founded the entertainment empire. Despite being unable to wait for long periods of time in the heat because she uses an ileostomy bag, Bonadurer was denied a pass for the disability program.

In a statement, Disney said it was committed to providing a great experience to all visitors, particularly those with disabilities who may require special accommodations.

Here’s a look at changes to Disney parks’ policies for disabled visitors.

The Disability Access Service, or DAS, program allows pass-holders and their immediate family members to make an online reservation for a ride while in the park and then get into an expedited line that typically takes about 10 minutes when it’s their time to go on the ride. DAS guests never have to wait in normal standby lines, which on the most popular attractions can be two hours or more.

The DAS program started in 2013 in response to past abuses by disabled “tour guides” who charged money, sometimes hundreds of dollars, to accompany able-bodied guests, enabling such guests to go to the front of lines. Disney says the DAS program needed changing because it had grown fourfold. Before last year’s changes, the percentage of guests having DAS passes jumped from around 5% to 20% over the past dozen years “and showed no signs of slowing,” the company said in court papers.

Disney parks make other accommodations for disabled visitors, including maps in Braille, a device that helps transfer visitors from wheelchairs to ride seats, quiet break locations and American Sign Language interpreters for some live shows. The parks permit some service animals on rides and allow some disabled guests to leave a line and rejoin their party before boarding a ride.

Disney narrowed the scope from people with a wider range of disabilities to mostly guests who “due to a developmental disability such as autism or similar” have difficulties waiting in a long line. Under the changes, guests seeking a DAS pass must be interviewed via video chat by a Disney worker and a contracted medical professional who determine if the person is eligible. Visitors found to have lied can be barred from the parks.

Some people with disabilities who have been denied say the new policy is too restrictive. Not only was Bonadurer denied a pass, but so was her 25-year-old son, who is blind and has cerebral palsy and autism.

“They are making a determination about whether you’re disabled enough,” said Bonadurer, a professional travel adviser from Michigan. “I would love to wait in line with everyone else, and so would my son, since that would mean he has a normal life. But we don’t, and unfortunately for us, we need adaptations to how we wait.”

Disney says the Americans with Disabilities Act doesn’t require equal treatment of people with varying disabilities. The company accommodates those visitors who don’t meet the new DAS criteria with alternatives, Disney said in court filings responding to a federal lawsuit in California.

“For example, in a crowded movie theater, a person using a wheelchair may be entitled to priority seating even if they arrive shortly before the movie starts, while a deaf person may only be entitled to a seat with closed captioning,” the company said.

At Disney’s main theme park rival, Universal, disabled visitors can get shorter lines if they have a card issued by an international board that certifies venues for their accessibility.

A shareholder proposal submitted on behalf of DAS Defenders, an advocacy group of Disney fans opposed to the DAS changes, calls on the company next year to commission an independent review of its disability policies and publicly release the findings. The shareholder proposal claims the change to the DAS program has contributed to lower park attendance.

Disney’s attorneys told the Securities and Exchange Commission in a November letter that it intends to block the proposal ahead of the company’s 2026 shareholder meeting, saying it was false and misleading about the reasons for an attendance decline, which the company attributed to hurricanes. The company also argued the shareholder proposal amounts to micromanaging day-to-day operations.

https://apnews.com/author/mike-schneider

Viva Launches New Nonstop Service Between New York And Monterrey

Viva announced today that beginning December 13, it will operate seven weekly seasonal nonstop flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Monterrey, Mexico (MTY), offering travelers a convenient option for visiting family and friends during the upcoming holiday season.

Photo credit: IG: lovi.blossom_ Vianey Molina

The new service marks Viva’s official debut in New York, complementing its existing nonstop routes to Mexico City (MEX) and Monterrey (MTY). Additionally, the airline’s extensive domestic network allows passengers to connect seamlessly to destinations throughout Mexico. For example, travelers can easily reach Puebla (PBC) with a simple connection in Monterrey, enhancing both flexibility and convenience.

“Viva is committed to providing competitive fares, comfort, and excellent onboard service,” said Carlos Molina, International Sales. “This new service reinforces our dedication to connecting people and strengthening ties between the United States and Mexico, making travel easier and more enjoyable for our passengers.”

Viva Air remains focused on delivering an exceptional travel experience, ensuring that every flight offers both value and comfort.

Flight Schedule

Operates Monday through Sunday

New York (JFK) → Monterrey (MTY)

12:45 a.m. ✈️ 4:30 a.m.

Monterrey (MTY) → New York (JFK)

6:40 p.m. ✈️ 11:45 p.m.

Service available from December 13, 2025, to January 12, 2026.

EasyJet To Resume Flights To And From Tel Aviv On March 29

British low-cost carrier easyJet announces that it will resume flight operations to and from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport starting March 29 next year.

An easyJet flight seen taking off from Ben Gurion International Airport, on March 24, 2018. (Moshe Shai/FLASH90)

“We are pleased to be resuming flights between London Luton, Amsterdam and Milan Malpensa and Tel Aviv,” an easyJet spokesperson says in an e-mailed statement. “We plan to resume flying to Tel Aviv from additional European bases next winter season at the end of October instead of next March.”

“We continually review all of our routes and remain committed to resuming more flying to and from Tel Aviv,” the easyJet spokesperson adds.

In July, the UK carrier, which had been expected to restart its flight operations at the end of October, announced that it would extend the suspension of all routes to and from Tel Aviv through March 28, 2026.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/writers/sharon-wrobel/

Canada's Tallest Skyscraper Becomes First In Country Above 100 Storeys

The SkyTower supertall skyscraper in Toronto, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, has become the first building in Canada to surpass 100 storeys.

The residential skyscraper for developer Pinnacle International reached a milestone today on its path to becoming the tallest building in Canada and one of the tallest residential towers on the continent.

Designed by Canadian studio Hariri Pontarini Architects, the supertall skyscraper will reach an estimated 351.85 metres (1,154 feet) tall.

In May, Dezeen showed images of the tower at 71 storeys with some of the exterior cladding complete. Now, it appears that much more of the cladding on the base of the structure has been completed.

When completed, the building will have a slightly sloping facade with balconies on one side that resemble vents.

"We are pleased to celebrate Pinnacle SkyTower reaching 100 storeys," said Pinnacle International president and CEO Michael De Cotiis

"We have created a landmark, one that is making history not only for Toronto, but for all of Canada."

Hariri Pontarini Architects has described Skytower as a "12-sided jewel" with "glazed and tapered form with chamfered corners".

"The design of the Pinnacle Sky Tower is inspired by its urban context and by our goal of establishing a strong sculptural presence on the skyline," said Hariri Pontarini Architects founding partner David Pontarini.

"Its prominent site location at the start of one of Toronto’s main arterial roads called for an architectural expression that would become a landmark on the skyline."

"From the outside, this geometry reflects light in different ways and results in a distinctive silhouette that shifts depending on the angle you view it from," he continued.

"The building amenities on the upper floors will sit at the same general elevation as the CN Tower’s main observation level, creating a visual alignment and relationship on the skyline."

Beyond the stylistic aspects, the architecture studio claims this formal scheme will help the skyscraper bear the heavy winds that blow across Lake Ontario.

Pinnacle SkyTower is part of the larger Pinnacle One development located in Toronto's rapidly developing Harbourfront neighbourhood. It will contain apartments and a hotel as well as amenities, including a restaurant on its 106th floor, its highest.

An adjacent skyscraper in the development will reach 95 storeys.

After a March 2025 variance request, its height was extended to 106 storeys, with its original design only having 95.

The skyscraper will beat out Foster + Partners One Bloor in the city, which became Canada's first supertall skyscraper at 85 storeys and 308.6 metres (1,012 feet) earlier this year.

According to the developer, the tower will top out and begin welcoming residents in 2026.

The project is indicative of the rapid heightening of Toronto's urban landscape. Earlier this year, Dezeen showcased a photo series underlining this rapid development through a juxtaposition of charming older buildings with sparkling new developments.

Elsewhere in the city, Frank Gehry, who died last week, designed the 84-storey Forma skyscraper, one of his tallest and his first skyscraper in his birth city.

https://www.dezeen.com/author/ben-dreith/

Copenhagen Invites Destinations Worldwide To Join Copenpay

CopenPay began in Copenhagen as an initiative that rewarded tourists with free perks for simple responsible actions, from picking up litter in the canals to arriving at museums by bike.

Building on its success — and interest from more than 100 destinations worldwide — Copenhagen will launch DestinationPay on December 3.

Developed by the official tourism organisation of Copenhagen, WonderfulCopenhagen, DestinationPay is a global, ready-to-use framework that allows cities and regions to create their own version of CopenPay and reward visitors for actions that benefit local communities. It marks a shift toward a new tourism economy where value is measured not only by spending but by contribution. Several international destinations have already signed on.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenpay

The World’s Tallest Hotel Has Just Opened In Dubai

Dubai has a new record-breaker on its skyline — almost by accident. The world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Tower, has officially opened, stacking 377 meters of glass and ambition above Dubai Marina. Its height was never planned — it grew unexpectedly as blueprints were torn up and redrawn.

The building features a large void known as the "eye of the needle," which helps it cope with high winds. Ciel Dubai

“We knew we wanted to build something spectacular,” says Rob Burns, CEO of project developer The First Group. “But we certainly didn’t plan on building the tallest hotel in the world.”

Despite its record proportions, Ciel’s creators were still forced to think small. The whole structure rises from a footprint of about 3,600 square meters, or about 40,000 square feet —a little smaller than a professional soccer pitch. Not exactly tiny, but a tiny sliver in Dubai terms.

That meant the tower’s architect, Yahya Jan, needed to show constraint and rely on some clever tricks.

It’s a tower built for spectacle that keeps having to remember the size of its own footprint. Almost everything inside ends up shaped by the tiny plot that launched this accidental record.

The entrance, for example, is luxurious but not quite what you’d expect from a Dubai record-breaker. You walk in anticipating something grand — large enough to host a convention or festooned with statues and water features. Instead you get soft lighting, curved lines and the sense of a space designed by someone who appreciates how little there is of it.

“It was a very challenging project for us,” Jan says. “It’s an irregularly shaped property. For a tower of this size the property could have been bigger. But I always say, you do your best work when you are challenged the most.”

The lobby, in other words, is compact because it has to be. The grandeur is deferred upward, unveiled floor by floor, until the moment when the building finally has enough altitude to get dramatic.

The rooms stick to this theme. They’re clean-lined, with neutral tones and smooth textures — modest compared to Dubai’s typically sprawling resort suites, but the floor-to-ceiling views of the Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and the Gulf do some heavy lifting. With 1,004 rooms across its 82 floors, however, the hotel enters a market already bursting with beds.

Burns is aware of the numbers. “I think a thousand rooms is definitely a challenge. And we knew that when we started,” he says. Still, he insists they’re “very, very bullish on the hospitality market,” with plenty to set the hotel apart. Like “360-degree views, the wonderful rooms, the amenities, the facilities.”

Higher up, Ciel’s signature flourish appears in the form of a void — something that Jan calls the “eye of the needle” — that’s there for function as much as design.
>br />Super-tall towers like Ciel must make a deal with the elements. The higher the building, the stronger the wind blows. Stand here even on a calm day and you can feel it funneling through the gap. “If you want the height that is great, but how can you shape the building to minimize the wind load? So, by having the cutout we let the wind go through the tower.”

The infinity pool on level 76 vanished into the sky. Ciel Dubai

A dozen atria punctuate the height, spaced six to eight stories apart, filled with trees and plants. They’re both aesthetic and practical, offering daylight, cooling and giving guests a place to gather.

What Jan calls “social community spaces where people can come together,” will be used for yoga and fitness sessions, or as restaurant overspill areas. “We’re vertically creating small parks,” he says — breaking up the tower into “smaller neighborhoods.” They also help with cooling and energy use, using computer-controlled glass louvers to “bring the sea breeze in.”

“Future towers are going to be different than towers of 50 years ago,” Jan says. “They’re going to be porous, you’re going to bring nature into these towers.”

Perhaps the most Dubai thing about Ciel is that they didn’t set out to build a record-breaker, it just sort of happened. They kept adding amenities and the building kept rising because there was nowhere else to put them.

It was Jan that informed them that they were drifting into record territory as the design edged within range of previous title-holder Gevora Hotel, also in Dubai, which stands at just over 356 meters.

“Yahya came to us and notified us, ‘hey guys, you’re close to building the tallest hotel in the world,’” says Burns. “And we said ‘wow, okay. Let’s make that happen.’”

Ciel’s dining and pool spaces follow the same logic as the rest of the tower, making the most of what’s available. The hotel spreads eight restaurants across its upper floors, with the UK-based Tattu brand occupying the most dramatic positions — the House of Dragon on 74, the House of Koi encircling the Skypool on 76, and the House of Phoenix perched in the Skylounge on 81, where the 360-degree views do most of the decorative work.

There are three pools, but the one that matters is the infinity pool on Level 76, placed inside the tower’s wind-channeling void. It isn’t large, but it doesn’t need to be when the visual trick is that the water seems to vanish straight into the sky.

Ciel is not Dubai’s most extravagant hotel. It doesn’t have the epic lobbies or the beachfront sprawl of the Palm resorts. But it shows what can happen when a city, more used to living it large, decides to show some restraint.

The public spaces are elegant without being excessive. The rooms are comfortable. And the views — especially from the upper floors and the sky pool — lend logic to the decision to build a 377-meter hotel such a relatively small patch of earth.

Ciel adds another shape to a skyline that rarely stays the same for long. Whether it holds the world-record title long is unclear. Dubai seems to see even its own superlatives as challenges.

https://www.cnn.com/profiles/bijan-hosseini

American Airlines Adds Flights And Exclusive Access To Tickets For All FIFA World Cup 26 Matches

American Airlines is giving customers the perfect assist ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™. The airline is making it easier than ever to get to every match with additional flight options, more opportunities to redeem AAdvantage® miles for tickets and exclusive Perks that AAdvantage® members can only get through American. In addition, to celebrate the airline’s sponsorship as the Official North American Airline Supplier of FIFA World Cup 26™, American will roll out aircraft decal installations on its domestic fleet and launch a creative marketing campaign leading up to the FIFA World Cup 26™ Final Draw in Washington, D.C. on Dec. 5.

From takeoff to kickoff, getting fans to every match

As soon as soccer fans know where and when their favorite teams will take the pitch, American will have additional flights ready for sale to get them to every match. The airline is adding frequencies and flying larger planes between the 16 host cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico, making it easy for fans to follow their teams from the group stage to the final match.

“American is ready with its game plan for the FIFA World Cup 26™, adding an extra 27,000 seats on 12 routes this summer,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning. “With more flights to all host cities, we’re making sure fans don’t miss the chance to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime moment across North America. “

Along with more flights between Los Angeles and Seattle or Boston and Dallas-Fort Worth, American is introducing nonstop service between Atlanta and Kansas City during the quarterfinal round.

Market Dates Additional flying

Boston (BOS)-Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) June 18-July 11 More flights and upgauged aircraft

Atlanta (ATL)-Miami (MIA) June 16-July 17 More flights and upgauged aircraft

Philadelphia (PHL)-Toronto (YYZ) June 15-June 30 Upgauged aircraft

Kansas City (MCI)-PHL June 15-June 22 Upgauged aircraft

Los Angeles (LAX)-Seattle (SEA) June 13-July 8 Upgauged aircraft

ATL-New York LaGuardia (LGA) July 16-July 17 More flights and upgauged aircraft

LAX-Vancouver (YVR) June 16-June 26 More flights

DFW-San Jose, California (SJC) June 17-June 27 More flights

ATL-PHL June 20-June 21 More flights and upgauged aircraft

LGA-MCI June 21-June 22 New nonstop flights

MIA-YYZ June 28-June 29 Upgauged aircraft

ATL-MCI July 8-July 13 New nonstop flights

Flights are available to purchase now at aa.com/en-us/fwc26 or through American’s mobile app.

As millions of fans prepare for the world’s biggest sporting event, American is giving AAdvantage® members another unique way to join in on the action by redeeming AAdvantage® miles for FIFA World Cup 26™ match tickets. AAdvantage® members will have early access to redeem miles for all match tickets through American based on their status level.

Here’s the game plan

Dec. 17 — AAdvantage Executive Platinum® status and ConciergeKey® members

Dec. 18 — AAdvantage Gold® status, AAdvantage Platinum® status and AAdvantage Platinum Pro® status members

Dec. 19 — All AAdvantage® members

Members can earn miles and Loyalty Points by flying or engaging with the airline’s partners, getting them closer to status for exclusive access to FIFA World Cup 26™ match tickets. AAdvantage® members can also save up to 40% when buying AAdvantage® miles.

American goes the extra mile in rewarding sports enthusiasts with exciting opportunities to experience their favorite teams. To reward their love of travel and sports, American is giving AAdvantage® members daily opportunities to enter sweepstakes throughout the year for a chance to win exciting prizes that get fans closer to the action.

Beginning Dec. 6, fans may visit fwc26perks.com for a chance to win any one of the following AAdvantage® Perks — available only to members of American’s AAdvantage® loyalty program, which offers countless ways for customers to earn and redeem miles:

Opening match tickets to FIFA World Cup 26™ (currently available on Perks)

Group stage match of choice

Watch a U.S. Men’s National Team group stage match

Watch a FIFA World Cup 26™ match with a FIFA Legend

As the Official North American Airline Supplier of FIFA World Cup 26™, American is taking its sponsorship to new heights. Starting this month, every aircraft in the American Airlines fleet — totaling more than 1,550 aircraft — will proudly display a custom FIFA World Cup 26™ decal, in partnership with Qatar Airways, honoring the airlines' commitment to connecting fans, teams and the world’s most celebrated sporting event. The decals will be applied across the domestic fleet by the end of December, allowing travelers to share in the excitement as American counts down to kickoff.

This month, fans will begin seeing American’s new creative content celebrating the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26™ across national television, digital and social platforms. Along with a “Now Boarding: Super Fans” digital-only campaign, American will launch a 30-second broadcast spot, “Fandom Takes Flight.”

Art Festival Launching In Philadelphia In 2026

ArtPhilly will showcase Philly culture, past and present.

A five-week, citywide festival of the arts is planned in Philadelphia next summer to coincide with the nation’s 250th birthday. ArtPhilly, starting May 27, will feature over 30 performances and installations by artists from around the region.

ArtPhilly is intended to be a recurring event. The inaugural event is titled “What Now: 2026.”

One of its headlining works will be a new piece of documentary theater by Anna Deveare Smith, who was once a student at Arcadia College. “The Basil Biggs Project” will be about her own ancestor who was once hired to disinter and rebury dead Civil War soldiers at the Gettysburg battlefield.

Other projects include a music exploration of Black electronic music by DJ King Britt, a giant pop-up book about the history of Chinatown by artist Collete Fu and a music and poetry project about the cultural history of pepperpot soup conceived by the late Philadelphia artist Homer Jackson.

More events will be announced for designated Festival Districts across the city. According to an ArtPhilly statement, the festival involves 17 curators.

“For so much of its history Philadelphia has been at the forefront of art and culture in the United States,” said ArtPhilly co-founder Katherine Sachs. “By spotlighting the incredible artists and vital communities of our city, we hope that ArtPhilly reminds people how exciting and dynamic Philadelphia has been and continues to be.”

Editor’s note: ArtPhilly will be a “recurring” event, rather than a triennial event as organizers had initially indicated.

https://whyy.org/person/peter-crimmins/

Travelore News: Memphis Art Museum To Open In December 2026

Memphis Art Museum announced that its new cultural campus in the heart of Downtown Memphis, along the Mississippi River bluff, will open to the public in December 2026. Currently known as the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, it is both the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee, with a collection of more than 10,000 works spanning from ancient to contemporary art.

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron and architect of record archimania, with landscape design by OLIN, the new 122,000-square-foot museum will expand the institution's existing gallery space by 50 percent and provide 600 percent more art-filled free public space, including a 10,000-square-foot community courtyard at street level and a 50,000-square-foot rooftop sculpture garden.

The building's design will capture the warmth and texture of the region, with natural tones inspired by the clay banks of the river. Designed as an open invitation to the city, its transparent glass façade will let passersby see the art inside, while street-level galleries will let that creativity spill out onto the sidewalks, blurring the line between the museum and Memphis itself.

New, wider sidewalks will connect downtown to the riverfront, bringing people directly to the museum as a new hub of civic life. A public plaza shared with the historic Cossitt Library will create a lively cultural commons along the bluff. At its center, a broad, shaded courtyard will serve as a gathering space open to everyone.

Encircling the courtyard in a continuous, single-story loop, the galleries provide generous, flexible spaces for displaying Memphis' diverse art collection. Five galleries will include large windows overlooking either the Mississippi River or the community courtyard, keeping visitors connected to the landscape and the life of the city. Nearby, light-filled classrooms with ideal northern exposure will offer inspiring spaces for making and learning art at every level—from school groups to adult artists—further connecting the act of seeing art with creating it.

Atop the building is a full-roof garden—an “art park in the sky”—featuring several sculptures, native plants, an event pavilion, and sweeping views of Downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River. The building's River Window offers a framed view of the historic waterway, while the Riverview Terrace provides an elevated overlook of the horizon. Occupying an entire city block, the new museum redefines Downtown Memphis.

The building is among the first major U.S. museums constructed using laminated timber. Wood elements incorporated throughout the campus honor Memphis' legacy as the Hardwood Capital of the World and serve as a defining architectural element, from the entry porch and lobby to galleries, the café, education areas, classrooms, and event areas.

Joining the Memphis Art Museum in a year of landmark cultural milestones across Memphis are the National Civil Rights Museum, which will open its expanded Legacy Building in spring 2026, the National Ornamental Metal Museum which will also unveil a new, centrally located facility offering expanded space for exhibitions, permanent collections, and educational programming. In addition, 2026 marks historic anniversaries for many of Memphis's beloved cultural institutions, including 90 years of live music at Overton Park Shell, 70 years of Opera Memphis, 50 years of Dixon Gallery & Gardens, 40 years of Ballet Memphis, 20 years of the Hattiloo Theatre, and 20 years of Collage Dance Center. Together, these milestones reflect a powerful moment of cultural investment and celebration in the city where blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll were born.

“Memphis has a long history as a vibrant hub for art and culture. This expansive and innovative new campus will further reinforce the city's status as a global cultural destination,” said Dr. Zoe Kahr, Executive Director of the Memphis Art Museum. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the very best of what Memphis has to offer, in 2026, and for years to come.”

With community at the heart of its mission, the new museum prioritizes accessibility through a design that features abundant free and publicly accessible spaces. Once inside the museum, visitors will have access to the mezzanine-level theater as well as galleries, educational areas, the café, and store all on the street level, with a direct connection to the Mississippi River waterfront. The museum will be able to accommodate more than 400 cultural, creative, and community-based initiatives and also will be available for rentals.

About Memphis Brooks Museum of Art / Memphis Art Museum

Located at 1934 Poplar Avenue in historic Overton Park, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is one of the leading art museums in the American South. Over 10,000 works make up Memphis' art collection at the museum including ancient works from Greece, Rome, and the Ancient Americas; Renaissance masterpieces from Italy; English portraiture; American painting and decorative arts; contemporary art; and African Diasporic art.

In December 2026, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art will open its new home as Memphis Art Museum: a state-of-the-art, 122,000-square-foot facility at the heart of downtown Memphis. For more information on the current programming and future plans for Memphis' art museum, call (901) 544-6200 or visit brooksmuseum.org / memphisartmuseum.org.

7 Countries Where You Can Get Citizenship If You Buy Property

If you're considering moving abroad, there can be a lot to daydream about and also a lot of practical steps to take to get there. As you think through all these possibilities, it's worth noting that purchasing property in certain countries can lead to residency and/or citizenship.

Citizenship by investment certainly isn't free, but some countries offer cheaper and easier access points than others. Whether you are looking to retired abroad or simply to immerse yourself in a different culture, there are several European countries and Caribbean islands that offer enticing investment programs. On a related note, did you know what some countries will even pay you to move there?

Before buying property abroad, go over these steps to make sure you're set up for success:

Do your research: Begin by reading about countries that fit your financial and personal goals. Be sure you look into residency programs, tax laws, property ownership laws, and what an overall lifestyle looks like there to see if it might be a good match for you.

Visit first: You'll learn the most about an area and if you might to live there by spending time there in person. Consider visiting multiple times at different times of year to get a better ideas of the culture, local vibe, and what living there practically looks like.

Consult the experts: Foreign property purchase isn't a simple transaction, so be sure to talk with real estate agents, immigration lawyers, and tax professionals who can assist you with how to navigate local rules and reduce any surprises further along in the process.

Think long-term: Even after doing all these other things, make sure you think long and hard about a commitment as big as this is and how it might impact your life in the future.

Ready to start that research? To inspire where you might potentially invest, we gathered information on seven countries that will give you citizenship for buying property.

Portugal

Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, oh my! Portugal has been on a tourism hot streak for over a decade, climbing the ranks for popular countries to visit. Even better news? Their Citizenship by Investment Program is super well-known. According to Henley & Partners, a global residence by investment firm, for as little as €250,000 in real estate expenditure, you may be able to access their coveted Golden Visa program. (This amount is generally for low-density areas; in tourist hot spots, you can expect to pay more.)

The visa allows for residency where Americans can live, work, and travel freely within the EU. After a five-year waiting period, you can begin the citizenship process. Portugal is attractive for its rich culture, deep history, convenient Western European locale, and great healthcare system, making it a prime target for residence by investment.

Antigua and Barbuda

For a dose of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda can be an ideal pick. This multi island nation offers a Citizenship by Investment program that includes a real estate option. With a minimum investment of $300,000 in property, investors can eventually earn their citizenship.

This beachy locale also boasts a strong passport, with the opportunity for visa-free travel to over 150 countries. Beyond a welcoming, warm climate, advantageous taxes, and a favorable business environment all help Antigua and Barbuda stand out from the residence by real estate crowd.

Malta

Another archipelago, Malta is a prime pick for expat property investment. Their Individual Investor Programme (IIP) might be the ideal choice and requires a real estate investment of at least $350,000. Beyond the initial investment, this program generally involves a contribution to the country’s National Development and Social Fund and a commitment to maintaining the property for several years.

Though the citizenship process can take a few years, Malta offers a high standard of living and education along with a prime location in the heart of the Mediterranean. From its golden capital city to its azure waters, it’s easy to see why this EU nation made our list.

Turkey

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program allows individuals to apply for citizenship after purchasing real estate worth $400,000 or more. This relatively low threshold for investment has made Turkey one of the most popular destinations for those seeking a second passport.

Turkey’s unique location bridging Europe and Asia, rich culture, burgeoning food scene, and growing economy make it an extra appealing choice for expats. Also notable: This large Eurasian country has a fairly low cost of living, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to diversify their investments and citizenship.

Dominica

The Caribbean’s best kept secret is the so-called “Nature Isle” of Dominica. Nope, not the Dominican Republic; Dominica is its own independent nation with a Citizenship by Investment Program that's one of the most affordable in the region.

Although you can opt to contribute to a government fund, investing in real estate is also an option, with a minimum investment requirement of $200,000 in property. In exchange, you gain citizenship and access to visa-free travel to over 140 destinations.

Greece

Greece’s Golden Visa program is one of the most affordable residency-by-investment programs in Europe. For a minimum investment of about €250,000 in real estate, individuals and their families can obtain Greek residency, which offers the freedom to live and work in Greece and travel throughout Europe.

Although this program does not offer immediate citizenship, after seven years of residency (not full time), individuals may apply for citizenship. As long as other benchmarks are met, like a basic understanding of the language, real estate can be a viable road to Greek citizenship.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis has long been considered a reliable option for individuals seeking citizenship by investment. With a real estate investment of at least $325,000 for a condominium unit or $600,000 for a single family dwelling, investors can apply for citizenship.

The dual-island nation is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and a business-friendly environment that attracts international investors. The program also offers some of the most competitive tax benefits, such as no capital gains tax, no personal income tax, and no inheritance taxes.

By Katy Spratte Joyce

Travelore News: TSA Announces $45 Fee For Travelers With No REAL ID Or Passport Starting In February

Travelers going through airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or passport will face a $45 fee starting Feb. 1, the Transportation Security Administration announced Monday.

This fee is part of the agency’s next phase of the REAL ID implementation process and will require individuals to verify their identity through a biometric or biographic system if they don’t have a compliant form of identification before they’re permitted to cross through the checkpoint.

The announcement follows a proposed rule published in the Federal Register last month, but the agency increased the fee from its previously proposed amount of $18.

“The fee was necessary because we needed to modernize the system. We needed to make sure that the system is safe,” Steve Lorincz, TSA’s deputy executive assistant administrator for security operations, told us.

TSA says the fee will cover the administrative and IT costs associated with the ID verification program and ensure the expense is covered by the travelers and not the taxpayers.

Individuals traveling without a REAL ID can go online at TSA.gov and follow the instructions listed to verify their identity and pay the fees once it goes into effect next year.

After completing the steps, they will receive an email confirmation to show the TSA officer before they can pass through the checkpoint. The whole process should typically take between 10 to 15 minutes, but could also take as much as 30 minutes or even longer.

The agency warns that even then, there is no guarantee that individuals will be cleared to cross through the security checkpoint.

“We still need to go through the process to make sure that we verify who you are. And for whatever reason, if we can't do that, then you can't go through the process,” Lorincz said.

Travelers in line who get to the checkpoint without an acceptable form of ID will be sent out of the line to complete the online verification process before they can proceed. TSA says those with a lost or stolen REAL ID or passport will also have to pay fees.

Once verified, the fees will cover access through the TSA checkpoint for up to ten days. After that, if the individual travels without a REAL ID again, they will have to pay the fees.

The agency says around 94% of travelers are already using a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID.

https://abcnews.go.com/author/ayesha_ali

Travelore Tips: 5 TSA Rules That Don't Apply When Flying Internationally

Keeping track of the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) rules can be tricky even for frequent travelers. Whether it's adding items to the list of things banned from flights or no longer enforcing the shoes-off policy during security screenings, the agency is constantly updating what rules people need to follow at the airport. 

Making things even more complicated is that the rules aren't the same everywhere you travel. TSA rules can vary from one airport to the next, even within the United States, and once you leave the country, you may find yourself facing an entirely new set of regulations.

If you're planning an international trip, knowing which TSA rules do and don't apply at your destination can spare you confusion and hassle, helping to make your journey as smooth as possible. Here are five rules that may be different when flying to another country than when you're traveling domestically, along with the regions where those different rules often apply.

Packing and using power banks

The TSA's guidelines state that portable chargers or power banks that use a lithium-ion battery are permitted in carry-on bags only, meaning passengers are prohibited from packing them in checked bags. This change was in response to incidents like the January 2025 plane fire at South Korea's Gimhae International Airport, which, per the BBC, investigators believe was caused by a power bank with faulty insulation.

Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association regulations imposes size limits on power banks. For power banks up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), passengers can carry up to 20 in carry-on luggage. Those with a capacity of 101-160 Wh may be permitted, with airline approval, while those larger than 160 Wh are banned. Portable batteries with visible damage are also banned.

Individual countries may have additional rules regarding lithium-ion powered chargers. For instance, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) tightened its rules in June 2025 to increase inspections of power banks. Portable chargers must have a China Compulsory Certificate (CCC) marking, or they will be confiscated at security. According to Wired, some airlines do allow power banks onboard but forbid their use during flights (with Emirates, Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and South Korean Airlines all on this list). Some airlines, like Singapore Airlines, do still allow power banks in checked baggage, though only if the device is completely powered off, and carrying it with you in the cabin is still recommended.

TSA pre-check and eGates

When flying internationally, getting through security and clearing customs can often involve long wait times that lead to frustration (and potentially even missed connecting flights). Many airports have implemented policies to speed things up for select passengers, but you won't find the same ones everywhere in the world. In the United States, TSA PreCheck offers an expedited process (usually 10 minutes or less) on all domestic flights or departures to foreign countries. Also, while the Global Entry program extends this to international arrivals, for departures from international airports, you'll still need to rely on those countries' regulations.

The good news is that some countries have an even more streamlined process in place than what the TSA offers. The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) went into effect in October 2025 and automates entry into 29 countries for non-EU nationals planning stays of up to 90 days. This adds to the eGates system already in place in many European airports, which allows for faster self-service passport control using facial recognition. This may become a more familiar practice for American travelers, as well as the TSA tested eGates in three airports in 2025. However, as of November 2025, they are only available to CLEAR+ members.

Limits on liquids

The TSA has teased the idea of throwing out its 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on luggage (in which all liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters), and in 2025, it even began exempting 11 items from the regulation, including medications and supplies for infants. However, this new regulation applies only to airports that have installed new CT scanners for liquids, which, according to the TSA, includes just 255 U.S. airports as of May 2025, and does not apply to international connecting flights.

With that said, for international travelers, rules surrounding liquids can be particularly tricky. Some countries, including Japan, China, and Australia, still hold to the 100-milliliter rule, while other countries relaxed their regulations before the United States. Some allow containers of up to 2 liters, or 67 ounces, for liquids of all types, including U.K. airports like Edinburgh and Birmingham. 

Since this shift is still in progress, it's a good idea to look up the current rules for all airports you'll be traveling through before embarking on an international trip. Otherwise, you may find that a container you were allowed to keep at departure gets confiscated further along in your journey because that airport has different scanning technology and regulations.

Alcohol

Along with the general liquid quantity regulations mentioned above, products containing alcohol are governed by an additional set of rules. The TSA's alcohol regulations vary depending on the beverage's ABV (alcohol by volume). There is no limit on beverages with an ABV of 24% or lower in checked baggage, while passengers can carry up to 5 liters of alcohol with an ABV of 25%-70% in their checked bags. However, anything over 70% ABV is banned.

Outside of the United States, these rules are often different. According to the EU, non-EU travelers entering the EU can carry up to 4 liters of still wine (2 liters if it's sparkling or fortified), up to 16 liters of beer, or up to 1 liter of spirits. In the Middle East, most airlines mirror the TSA restrictions, but some destinations have differing rules for how much alcohol can be brought into the country. 

In Qatar, for example, you can carry alcohol through for a connecting flight, but that's it. In the past, travelers were able to temporarily surrender their alcohol to customs before leaving the airport if they had a stopover in the country, which would then be held until they left. However, per current Hamad International Airport guidelines, all alcohol is now confiscated. Much of Asia also shares the came general capacity rules for alcohol set by the TSA, but there may be slight differences. For instance, while you can carry up to 5 liters of alcohol into China, you only get the first 1.5 liters free for anything over 12% ABV. Anything more than that and you'll need to pay a custom's duty — usually 60% of the item's value, according to Top China Travel.

Fresh foods

Within the continental United States, you'll have no problem carrying fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, eggs, or even frozen lobster through TSA. But those rules can vary even for domestic locations like Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. That said, to minimize the risk of spreading invasive plant pests, most fresh produce cannot be carried into the mainland U.S. from these locations.

Once you cross an international border, the rules on fresh foods are often more complicated. All fruits and vegetables being brought into the U.S. from abroad are subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and nearly all are prohibited, even if the fruit or vegetable was purchased in the airport or onboard the plane. The U.S. also prohibits meat, poultry, and related products like milk and eggs from countries affected by livestock diseases, but doesn't restrict the transportation of most seafood.

These kinds of restrictions are similar elsewhere in the world. For instance, per the EU, you cannot bring meat or dairy products into Europe, but you can bring a limited quantity of fish or plant products. If you're traveling to Mexico, you can bring shelled nuts, spices, and dried fruits or vegetables, and some fresh fruit, vegetables, and dairy products are allowed, though bear in mind you won't be able to bring leftovers back to the U.S. at the end of your trip. When going to Australia, the Australian Border Force permits some meats and seafood items, but absolutely no fresh fruits can be brought into the country. This is another area where it's smart to check the rules for both the U.S. and your destination before your trip to avoid having items confiscated along the way.

https://www.islands.com/author/jesssimms/

Viva La Navidad: Discover Mexico’s Joyful Holiday Traditions

Mexico invites travelers to experience the holiday season through the warmth, color, and tradition that make a Mexican Christmas so decidedly special. From the candlelit processions of Las Posadas to the aroma of ponche navideño simmering on the stove, Christmas in Mexico is a celebration that unites faith, family, and festivity. For visitors, it offers a cultural window during one of the most joyful times of the year. It’s a season defined not by commercial rush but by connection: neighbors gathering in the streets, music spilling from plazas, and communities opening their doors to share in the joy of giving.

The holiday season begins on December 16 with Las Posadas, a nine-night reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. Each evening, families, friends, and neighbors gather as participants carry candles and sing traditional carols, moving from house to house until one opens its doors in welcome. The moment symbolizes hospitality and hope: two pillars of Mexican culture. Once inside, the mood turns festive as guests take turns breaking brightly colored piñatas, traditionally shaped like a seven-pointed star. The candies, fruit, and nuts that spill out represent the rewards of perseverance and virtue. For travelers, joining a posada is one of the most memorable ways to connect with the local community and witness a living tradition that has endured for generations.

The festivities culminate on Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, when families gather for midnight mass and an abundant feast. Across Mexico, each region brings its own flavor to the table. In central Mexico, tamales, bacalao a la vizcaína, and romeritos in mole sauce are staples of the evening meal. In Oaxaca, mole rojo takes center stage, while in coastal towns, seafood tamales and pescado a la talla are what's on the menu. Desserts vary from buñuelos dusted in sugar to trays of polvorones and cinnamon cookies passed around after dinner, each sweet bite carrying the taste of tradition. A cup of ponche navideño (a warm punch made with tejocote, guava, apple, sugarcane, and cinnamon) is often shared late into the night as fireworks light up the sky.

The poinsettia, or flor de Nochebuena, is another unmistakable symbol of the season. Native to Mexico, the bright red plant was once used in Aztec rituals before becoming associated with Christmas in the 16th century. In the 1800s, the poinsettia found its way to the United States through diplomat Joel Poinsett, giving rise to its English name. Today, the flower remains one of Mexico’s most famous exports, adorning homes, churches, and plazas throughout December. Visitors can see poinsettias blanketing city squares and markets across the country, a vibrant reminder that one of the world’s favorite holiday symbols began right here in Mexico.

Throughout the country, cities and towns celebrate in their own unique ways. In Mexico City, public posadas and open-air concerts bring neighborhoods like Coyoacán and San Ángel to life, while the Zócalo glows under a canopy of lights and festive decorations. In Oaxaca, the annual Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23 showcases intricate sculptures carved from radishes, a whimsical custom that dates back more than a century. San Miguel de Allende’s cobblestone streets are illuminated by lanterns and processions, while along the coasts — from Puerto Escondido to Los Cabos, Mahahual to Holbox, the towns along the Gulf Mexico and the Sea of Cortez, visitors can enjoy seaside celebrations, fireworks, and Christmas dinners featuring local seafood and regional ingredients.

The spirit of the season extends beyond Christmas Day. The festivities continue through January 6, known as Día de Reyes (Three Kings’ Day), when children receive gifts and families share a ring-shaped sweet bread called Rosca de Reyes. The celebration marks the arrival of the Magi and officially closes the holiday season in Mexico, though many towns continue to hold community gatherings well into the new year.

For visitors, the holiday period offers one of the most rewarding times to experience Mexican culture. Mild winter weather, festive markets, and warm hospitality create the perfect setting for travelers seeking a meaningful seasonal escape. Local artisans fill plazas with handmade ornaments and nativity scenes, churches open their doors for traditional Misa de Gallo services, and the scent of roasted corn and hot chocolate fills the air.

December and January are also among the best times to visit Mexico in terms of climate and accessibility. Direct flights from major U.S. and Canadian cities make it easy to reach destinations such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, Mérida, and the beach resorts of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Many hotels and resorts host special posadas, holiday dinners, and New Year’s Eve events, allowing visitors to enjoy local traditions. From bustling urban celebrations to peaceful nights on the coast, the country offers countless ways to experience the joy and generosity that define a Mexican Christmas.

For travelers looking to trade snow for sunshine without losing the magic of the holidays, Mexico offers the perfect destination, one with tradition, warmth, where Christmas is still celebrated as a season of togetherness, gratitude, and joy.

For more information, visit https://visitmexico.com/ ~ https://www.gob.mx/sectur

The World Has A New Largest City, Jakarta

Tokyo has lost its status as the world’s largest city, with another sprawling Asian metropolis, Indonesia's vast capital Jakarta, knocking it off the top spot.

View of Jakarta, the major port and capital city of Indonesia

This milestone marks the first time in decades that the Japanese capital has not been the most populous center on Earth, highlighting rapid urban growth in Asia and a changing landscape of megacities worldwide.

For the U.S., these findings offer important insights into future urbanization trends, infrastructure challenges, and global economic shifts.

The United Nations’ World Urbanization Prospects 2025 report signals a significant change in global urban dynamics: Jakarta, Indonesia with 42 million residents, has overtaken Tokyo as the world’s most populous city.

Dhaka, Bangladesh, follows close behind with almost 40 million, while Tokyo’s population stands at 33 million, putting it in third place now.

Cairo remains the only non-Asian city among the top 10.

According to the report, released by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, urbanization has reshaped the global population landscape.

Cities now house 45 percent of the world’s 8.2 billion people, up from just 20 percent in 1950.

The study found a quadrupling in the number of megacities—urban areas with 10 million or more inhabitants—from eight in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with 19 of those in Asia.

The report points to significant growth for cities like Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Hajipur (India), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), all projected to surpass the 10 million threshold by 2050, when the number of megacities worldwide is expected to reach 37.

While megacities draw most of the attention, small and medium-sized cities—defined as those with under 1 million residents—continue to outnumber and outpace megacities in population and growth, especially in Africa and Asia.

Of the 12,000 cities analyzed, 96 percent have fewer than 1 million inhabitants.

Top 10 Most Populous Cities

According to the U.N. report, nine of the 10 most populous cities in the world are in Asia, although two of them, Seoul and Tokyo, are expected to witness population declines by 2050. The top 10 largest cities in the world by population are:

1. Jakarta

2. Dhaka

3. Tokyo

4. New Delhi

5. Shanghai

6. Guangzhou

7. Cairo

8. Manila

9. Kolkata

10.Seoul

São Paulo, Mexico City, Mumbai, Beijing and Osaka were all knocked out of the top 10.

United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua said: “Urbanization is a defining force of our time. When managed inclusively and strategically, it can unlock transformative pathways for climate action, economic growth, and social equity.” He added, “To achieve balanced territorial development, countries must adopt integrated national policies that align housing, land use, mobility, and public services across urban and rural areas.”

Globally, the number of cities is projected to exceed 15,000 by 2050, with most having populations below 250,000.

While rural communities continue to shrink except in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, small and medium-sized cities are expected to drive the next wave of global urbanization, spurring both opportunities and challenges in infrastructure, housing, and climate adaptation.

By Sam Stevenson

Disney World Prepares For Complete Overhaul To Cinderella Castle

Something is shifting across Walt Disney World, and you can feel it even before you know what’s changing. Construction walls pop up overnight, long-standing attractions quietly close, and new experiences seem to be forming in every corner of the resort. Guests can tell Disney is in the middle of a massive refresh, even if not every update has been officially announced.

Credit: Kaleb Tapp, Unsplash

With so much movement happening all at once, attention is starting to settle on one place in particular—Cinderella Castle. A new development has pushed eyes toward Magic Kingdom’s most iconic structure, though Disney isn’t giving away the details just yet.

Before diving into what’s happening with the castle, it’s essential to look at how much the rest of Disney World is shifting. Entire lands are being built or reimagined, like the long-awaited Villains Land at Magic Kingdom and Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Both expansions show Disney stepping into bolder themes and fresh storytelling directions, giving fans entirely new corners of the resort to explore.

These large-scale additions indicate Disney’s commitment to reshaping the parks from the ground up, not just polishing what already exists. With these kinds of projects already in progress, it makes perfect sense that the resort’s centerpiece may be preparing for its own evolution as well.

At the same time, Disney is reimagining attractions and entertainment experiences across the resort. Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster’s upcoming Muppets retheme stands out as one of the boldest moves, taking a classic thrill ride and infusing it with the Muppets’ chaotic humor and personality. Disney doesn’t make changes this dramatic unless it’s planning for a new creative direction, and that decision alone says a lot.

Entertainment changes are also reshaping the guest experience, with Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After adding flair to nighttime offerings and the Disney Starlight Parade injecting vibrant new energy into Magic Kingdom. With updates hitting the parks from multiple angles, the idea of a castle transformation feels not just possible, but almost expected.

Cinderella Castle is more than an icon—it’s the emotional anchor of Walt Disney World. Guests treat it as a symbol of their entire vacation, the place where the magic officially begins the moment they catch a glimpse of it from Main Street.

Because of that emotional weight, any sign of change involving the castle always sparks conversation. Recent movement around the park, combined with Disney’s broader wave of updates, has fans wondering whether the castle could be next. Now, thanks to a new filing, that question feels more relevant than ever.

As of November 10, 2025, a newly filed permit lists work for Cinderella Castle with the description: “labor, material, and/or electrical for construction.” Disney frequently uses vague language in permits to avoid revealing exact plans too early, but this particular classification stands out.

It signals an actual construction project—something that goes beyond simple maintenance or touch-ups. When Disney lists materials, electrical work, and labor together, it typically indicates that crews will physically modify or upgrade part of an attraction or structure. With the castle involved, even a subtle hint carries major implications.

While Disney hasn’t shared details, a permit like this typically points to one or more of the following:

Structural reinforcement or interior work

Lighting or projection upgrades

Electrical improvements tied to nighttime shows

New technology installations

Cosmetic changes or exterior restoration

Preparatory work for a larger future project

Several months back, Disney announced plans to eventually repaint Cinderella Castle, bringing back more of its original character and classic tones. Fans immediately expressed excitement, hoping to see the softer, more traditional look return after the castle’s recent anniversary color scheme.

What Disney didn’t reveal, however, was when the repainting would begin or how extensive the restoration would be. Since then, guests have been waiting for the first sign that the project has officially started. Now, this new permit has reopened those conversations and sparked fresh optimism among longtime visitors.

The castle’s original cool-toned palette is deeply nostalgic for generations of Disney World guests. It’s the version featured in countless family photos, commercials, and memories, giving it a timeless quality that fans have always connected with.

The anniversary pink-and-blue makeover was a fun celebratory moment, but many feel it’s time for the castle to return to its classic elegance. If this permit marks the beginning of that restoration, it could be the most exciting update the park has seen in years. With the resort undergoing huge transformations, the timing feels almost too perfect.

With Disney World undergoing rapid transformation, Cinderella Castle appears to be the next significant piece of the puzzle. Whether the new permit signals a repaint, latest technology, structural improvements, or a combination of changes, something meaningful is clearly underway.

Disney may keep quiet for now, but the clues suggest a fundamental shift is happening behind the scenes. Whatever emerges, the castle’s next transformation will undoubtedly shape the future of Magic Kingdom. And as this new chapter unfolds, fans will be watching closely—eager to see what the heart of Disney World will look like next.

https://insidethemagic.net/author/sarahboardwine8732gmail-com/

Flying Taxi Travel To Be As Easy As Ordering A Cab, Dubai Airshow Exhibitors Say

Air taxi vertiports will make travelling in the skies as easy as ordering a ride-hailing cab like an Uber, for a similar cost – that was a promise from exhibitors on the opening day of Dubai Airshow.

At an event historically dominated by airlines and private jets, the emergence of drones as a viable option for mass transport signalled a new era for commercial flight. Aerial taxi operators showed how passenger drone services will take shape in Dubai, ahead of a full commercial launch in 2026.

Passengers will soon be able to hail a drone to fly between Dubai International Airport, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Business Bay. Oliver Walker-Jones, head of marketing for Joby Aviation, said that was just the start of plans to build a nationwide network.

“We've got these four different take-off and landing points confirmed but that’s only the beginning,” he told The National. “We would like it to be much more widespread and we think there's great scope to build these in lots of different places.

“That means a more dense network in Dubai but it also is the opportunity to go further afield. We already have an arrangement with Ras Al Khaimah to work there, with Marjan Island an obvious choice.
s,
“Eventually, we would love to cover all the Emirates so we can move people back and forth everywhere. The real goal is flying between Dubai to Abu Dhabi at 320kph, in a straight line, with no traffic.”

In the exhibition centre at Dubai World Central, service operators gave visitors an insight into how a dial-and-fly service for drone travel would look in the near future.

After pick-up, passengers are given a unique bar code to access a vertiport departure lounge, before boarding a four-seater drone to beat the traffic and arrive at their destination in minutes.

Joby has a six-year exclusive arrangement with the Roads and Transport Authority to provide air taxi services in Dubai. The company will be the sole provider of aerial taxi services in the emirate, with US firm Archer Aviation looking to launch its four-seater Midnight passenger drone in Abu Dhabi.

It has yet to be established whether rival operators will be allowed to share vertiports but Mr Walker-Jones welcomed the competition to keep up with anticipated high demand, with passengers paying by the seat.

“This sector will grow and there will be plenty of operators and players all around the world,” he said. “This technology should work wherever there's traffic, so we see huge potential for lots of different companies to be successful in the field.

“For the initial pricing, we'll be looking at something similar to Uber Black pricing, with an ambition to get that down to something closer to the lower Uber categories over time. We're going to start small, with two or three vehicles but they'll be everywhere before you know it.”

Elsewhere at the air show, among the multibillion-dollar deals announced by commercial airlines, aviation technological advancements took centre stage.

While autonomous drones were displayed by Abu Dhabi defence company Edge, piloted service drones resembling an 'Iron Man' suit were displayed by Chinese construction firms to work on high-rise buildings.

Out on the airport’s runway, nestled among the dozens of airliners, private jets and helicopters, were military aircraft, including a JF17 Thunder owned by the Pakistan Air Force.

Meanwhile, Emirates announced a bumper deal for 65 new Boeing 777-9 passenger planes but it was the airline’s document-free, smart check-in corridor that turned heads.

A step-up from the smart gates used around the world, the smart corridor allows passengers to board flights without the need for showing a passport or boarding pass.

Once biometrics are registered via the Emirates app, using similar smartphone facial recognition software, the technology aims to improve passenger flow through the airport. The technology is already being used at first and business-class lounges in Dubai.

“What we are trying to do is to have all the passenger’s details in advance without them needing to show their documents at the gate,” an Emirates crew member said. “The aim is to make the passenger airport experience seamless, from arrival to take-off.”

https://www.thenationalnews.com/