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.
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“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/

Christmas Markets In Southwest Germany Showcase Tradition And Regional Diversity

During Advent, the towns and villages of the Black Forest transform into a sparkling winter wonderland. Over 180 Christmas markets offer unique settings, handcrafted goods, and culinary delights. The Christmas market in Freudenstadt (December 4–14, 2025), home to Germany's largest market square, is particularly atmospheric, featuring handcrafted products and a curling rink. In the historic half-timbered town of Haslach, the new "Culinary Winter Market" (December 19, 2025 – January 6, 2026) invites visitors daily to enjoy regional specialties and music, accompanied by a nativity scene exhibition.

Linger in the town of Rottweil where the scent of gingerbread fills the air of the Christmas Market © Ralf Graner Photodesign

Art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Karlsruhe: At the "Christmas Fair for Applied Arts and Crafts" (December 11–14, 2025), 40 exhibitors present high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces from across Europe. In Rottweil, the oldest city in Baden-Württemberg, the Christmas market (December 4–14, 2025) enchants visitors with its medieval setting, children's workshop, and choral singing.

Against impressive architecture, the Christmas market takes place on Cathedral Square in St. Blasien (on three weekends in December 2025) – framed by the largest dome north of the Alps. Lörrach invites visitors to its Old Market Square from December 4–14, 2025, with arts and crafts, music, and delicious aromas. In Bad Säckingen, the market on Münsterplatz (December 4–7, 2025) offers regional products and a musical program amidst a historic backdrop.

A truly special experience awaits at the "Christmas Triad" in Pforzheim (November 21, 2025 – January 6, 2026): Christmas market, winter wonderland, and medieval market merge into a dazzling, glittering experience complete with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and street performers.

Christmas Markets in the Black Forest

The half-timbered houses in the Black Forest town of Nagold are lit up especially this year for visitors. A giant ferris wheel also will be another first in the beautiful town. © Lightworkartpro, Manuel Kamuf

Action, Lights, Lanterns…Christmas in Nagold

When the first snow falls, familiar Christmas carols fill the air, and the holiday season draws near, a visit to the city of Nagold in the Black Forest in Southwest Germany is simply a must. Each evening, live music on the stage by the ice rink creates a festive atmosphere. From November 27 to January 6, 2026, take a leisurely stroll through the Winter Village on Longwy Square. Here you'll find culinary delights, enchanting decorations, and a varied program for all ages. A wonderful highlight to kick off the Advent season is Nagold's Night of Lights on November 28, 2025, from 5 to 10 PM. Right on time for the reflective season, the Nagold Christmas Market will enchant visitors from December 5 to 7, 2025. Among lovingly decorated stalls, festively adorned half-timbered facades, and a touch of winter magic, the city and dedicated local organizations invite you to enjoy a peaceful escape and a genuine holiday atmosphere. Highlights include: the giant ferris wheel on Vorstadtplatz, set up for the first time this year, and the historic town hall. From November 27 to December 26, 2025, the facades will glow with festive lights starting at 5 PM. Animated images, magical effects, and a new story each evening—the living Advent calendar creates a fairytale backdrop in the city of Nagold.

City of Nagold

Schloss Ludwigsburg just outside of Stuttgart that is still completely finished in the style in which it was built. A beautiful Baroque palace in the town of Ludwigsburg. c. SSG and Thomas Buehler

Castle Courtyards Aglow: Christmas with the SSG

The Staatliche Schlösser und Gärten Baden-Württemberg (SSG), or State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg, sets the stage for a truly magical winter and Christmas season across its many historic sites. As the gardens and grounds enter their quieter phase, the frost-kissed landscapes, bare trees and soft winter light lend the sites a serene, festive ambience. For example, Schloss Solitude in Stuttgart welcomes visitors for winter tours on weekends and holidays, offering both the architecture and surrounding views in a calm winter splendour. In the run-up to Christmas, many of the monuments managed by the SSG host atmospheric markets and seasonal events. The historic courtyards, cloisters and castle grounds are transformed into illuminated, festive spaces offering artisanal crafts, music and traditional treats. One highlight is the festive “Winterzauber” (winter magic) program at Residenzschloss Mergentheim, where from early November an open-air rink and themed events enliven the Schloss hof.


The Kurfürstlicher Christmas Market at Schloss Schwetzingen about 20 minutes from Heidelberg runs from November 27 to December 21, 2025, offering a festive atmosphere with handcrafted goods, delicious treats, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore beautifully illuminated tents, enjoy mulled wine, and discover unique gifts. Highlights include a nostalgic carousel, a Christmas market featuring local and international specialties, and cultural events such as Advent concerts and theater performances. The historic castle and gardens also offer special tours and winter experiences. The combination of seasonal architecture, historic gardens and festive programming makes the SSG-managed sites wonderful destinations for winter visits — whether for a quiet stroll, family outing or evening market experience.

State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg

Ships docked in Constance Harbour are often decorated at the Christmas season.© Achim Mende
Lake Constance - Four Countries, One Magical Christmas Lake

During Advent, Lake Constance (Bodensee) transforms into one of Europe’s most enchanting winter destinations, where Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein share their traditions along one shimmering lake. This cross-border charm makes the region unique: visitors can experience four different cultures of festive joy within just a few days. In Konstanz, the largest town on the lake, the Christmas Market stretches from the medieval old town all the way to the harbour. A true highlight is the “Weihnachtsschiff” (Christmas Ship), anchored by the waterfront and glittering with thousands of lights. Nearby, Überlingen enchants visitors with its atmospheric Christmas market, set among historic squares and festively decorated lanes. The lakeside promenade glows with lights, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for a winter stroll. Meersburg, with its half-timbered houses and medieval castle, offers a truly magical Advent market on the castle square.

Between Christmas and New Year, the town also hosts special seasonal events and concerts, keeping the festive mood alive right into the New Year. Another highlight is the Christmas Garden on Mainau Island, where dazzling light installations transform the famous flower island into a sparkling winter wonderland for the whole family. Across the region, guests can enjoy unique christmas markets, festive cruises on the lake, and culinary treats – from German Lebkuchen and Austrian pastries to Swiss chocolate specialities. Families, couples, and Christmas enthusiasts alike will discover the joy of exploring diverse traditions so close together. Lake Constance is more than a holiday – it is a magical journey across four countries united by one festive lake.

See Masterpieces By Monet, Matisse, Degas And Picasso In The First-Ever Exhibition Of This German Family’s Private Art Collection In Berlin

The Scharf Collection features French artworks from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as contemporary pieces from around the world.

“The Scharf Collection: Goya—Monet—Cézanne—Bonnard—Grosse” is on view at the Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin. Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, Alte Nationalgalerie / David von Becker

Over four generations, one German family built a sprawling collection of European masterpieces. Now, those artworks are on public display for the first time.

Titled “The Scharf Collection: Goya—Monet—Cézanne—Bonnard—Grosse,” the exhibition is on view at the Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin through February 15, 2026. It spotlights about 150 artworks by renowned painters across three centuries, including old masters like Francisco Goya, Impressionists like Claude Monet, modernists like Pablo Picasso and contemporary artists like Germany’s Katharina Grosse.

No Title, Katharina Grosse, 2000 The Scharf Collection

“We go from Goya to Grosse,” said René Scharf, the current owner of the collection, at the exhibition’s opening, per the Associated Press’ Geir Moulson.

Scharf said he hopes visitors will draw connections between artworks from different time periods and genres—such as how Monet’s hazy blue Waterloo Bridge (1903) informs Grosse’s works, which were created a century later.

The exhibition begins with etchings by Goya, such as his series Disasters of War (1810-1820), according to Euronews’ Leticia Batista Cabanas. It continues through Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. Finally, the show ends with modern and contemporary artworks, such as Daniel Richter’s We’ll Never Stop Living This Way (2009).

In addition to seeing renowned artworks in person, visitors will “dive deep into the historical developments” and “learn about the different personalities who have been collecting and preserving the collection,” Anette Hüsch, director of the Alte Nationalgalerie, tells Artnet’s Jo Lawson-Tancred.

Waterloo Bridge, Claude Monet, 1903 The Scharf Collection

The collection was started by Scharf’s great-grandfather, Otto Gerstenberg, who led a life insurance company in Berlin. Born in 1848, Gerstenberg began his art collection by acquiring prints by old masters like Albrecht Dürer, Goya and Rembrandt, according to the museum. Around 1900, he started collecting French impressionists like Monet and Edgar Degas. As his interests continued to expand, he acquired a large collection of art by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and some of these works are “a centerpiece of the show,” per the AP.

When Gerstenberg died in 1935, he had collected some 2,200 artworks. During World War II, some pieces were destroyed by air raids or looted by Russian soldiers, but his daughter, Margarethe Scharf, saved most of the collection. In 1961, the surviving artworks went to her sons, Walther and Dieter Scharf, who incorporated them into their own art collections.

Dieter developed an interest in Surrealists like Salvador Dalí, while Walther and his wife, Eve, maintained a focus on 19th-century French art, according to Artnet. The couple added more Impressionist paintings by Monet, Degas and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, along with works by Post-Impressionists like Paul Cézanne and Pierre Bonnard. Their son, René Scharf, is the current owner of the collection. René and his wife, Christiane, have since added contemporary paintings by artists such as Grosse, Richter and Sam Francis.

We'll Never Stop Living This Way, Daniel Richter, 2009 The Scharf Collection / Jens Ziehe / VG Bild-Kunst

The family has loaned individual pieces from the collection to museums, but many of the artworks in the exhibition have never been publicly displayed. As Scharf tells the AP, when the Alte Nationalgalerie first contacted him about showing the collection, “We asked ourselves, ‘What happens if we do nothing?’ Then maybe 30, 40 or 50 people per year will see the collection, and only a very small part of it, because we can’t hang everything at home.”

In the end, the family decided that the artworks should be displayed for anyone who wants to see them. “The collection deserves to be seen publicly,” he says.

“The Scharf Collection: Goya—Monet—Cézanne—Bonnard—Grosse” is on view at the Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin through February 15, 2026.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/author/sonja-anderson/

Travelore News: Mexico Hands Over Some Flight Slots At Capital Airport From Mexican Airlines To US Carriers

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday that Mexican airlines had agreed to hand over some flight slots at the ​nation's busy capital airport to U.S. carriers, amid an ‌ongoing spat between the countries over flight distribution.

"Several weeks ago, there was a redistribution in slots, ‌in which Mexican airlines gave up their spots to U.S. airlines, taking competitiveness into account," Sheinbaum said in her daily morning press conference.

Sheinbaum declined to say how many slots were impacted, adding that next year, a digital flight distribution system ⁠was set to be rolled ‌out and U.S. and other international airlines were already on board.

The concession comes as the U.S. Department of Transportation has ‍cracked down on Mexican airlines' operations in the U.S. in recent months, several years after Mexico cut slots at the capital airport and moved cargo flights to a newer, ​farther-away site.

In October, the DOT revoked approval for more than a dozen ‌routes by Mexican carriers and canceled combined passenger and cargo flights by Mexican airlines to the U.S. out of the new Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA).

Still, Sheinbaum said that U.S. authorities had to "recognize the importance of both airports," the main Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and the ⁠AIFA, which was built by Sheinbaum's predecessor ​and mentor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Lopez Obrador ordered ​the slot cuts and cargo flight move citing oversaturation at the centrally-located AICM, which is undergoing renovations.

The president said that she had met ‍with cargo airlines and ⁠they were content with flying out of the AIFA, though she recognized that some work had to be done to smooth out customs processing at the military-⁠run airport.

In August, United Airlines said that Mexican officials had informed U.S. airlines that "‌confiscated" slots at the AICM would be reinstated.

Contributed by Kylie Madry

Experimental ‘Quiet’ 925mph Nasa Jet Dubbed ‘Flying Swordfish’ Paves Way For Supersonic Holidays After Historic Take-Off

Late last month, Nasa’s so-called “Flying Swordfish” blasted off from California – promising 925mph flights without a sonic boom – and aviation experts say that it could change the face of holiday travel.

Nasa and Lockheed Martin’s X-59 quiet supersonic plane has taken offCredit: Lockheed Martin

Concorde famously offered high-speed flights across the Atlantic.

But the sound of the sonic boom has always been a major block to allowing commercial supersonic flights over land.

To combat this problem, Nasa and Lockheed Martin have been developing an experimental X-59 aircraft that doesn’t create a sonic boom.

Instead it creates a sonic “thump”, which is 75PLdB (perceived decibel level) – or “about as loud as a car door closing”.

“From takeoff at our Skunk Works’ Palmdale facility to landing at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, everything performed exactly as planned,” Lockheed Martin said.

“The X-59 moved with the kind of confidence that comes from years of innovation, teamwork and cutting-edge solutions.

“This flight isn’t just a milestone – it’s momentum.

“We’re proving that the future of flight can be faster and quieter than ever before. And we’re proud to be leading the charge.”

The jet is just shy of 100 feet long, and is capable of reaching Mac 1.4 speeds of 925mph.

And it cruises at around 55,000 feet, which is far higher than a typical jet that would fly at altitudes of between 30,000 and 45,000 feet.

It has a wingspan of roughly 30 feet, stands about 14 feet tall, and has been branded the “Flying Swordfish” in science media due to its shape.

And that design is no accident: it’s specifically designed to allow for “quiet supersonic” flight.

“In collaboration with NASA’s Quesst Mission, the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works team is solving one of the most persistent challenges of supersonic flight – the sonic boom,” Lockheed Martin explained.

“The X-59 will be used to collect community response data on the acceptability of a quiet sonic boom generated by the unique design of the aircraft.

“The data will help NASA provide regulators with the information needed to establish an acceptable commercial supersonic noise standard to lift the ban on commercial supersonic travel over land.

“This breakthrough would open the door to an entirely new global market for aircraft manufacturers, enabling passengers to travel anywhere in the world in half the time it takes today.”

Lockheed Martin wants to fly the plane over populated areas to prove to “US and international regulators” that supersonic flight over land doesn’t need to be a major disturbence.

And the aerospace giant says that it “could bring us one step closer to quiet supersonic travel for passengers around the globe”.

The shape of the aircraft is designed to reduce the loudness of a sonic boom to a “gentle thump” – at least as you hear it on the ground.

The X-plane does this by separating the shock waves that produce the sonic booms to make them quieter.

“The resulting supersonic ‘heartbeat’ is dramatically quieter than the disruptive N-wave boom generated by today’s supersonic aircraft”, Lockheed Martin said.

Sadly, it’s still unclear how long it will take for over-land supersonic commercial flights to become a reality.

Nasa and Lockheed Martin will need to conduct more tests to give flight watchdogs enough info to make a decision on their regulations.

And once those types of flights are approved, it will still take time for commercial aircraft to be built using a quiet supersonic design and then adopted by airlines.

https://www.the-sun.com/author/sean-keach/

Maine Emerging As A Rising Sports Destination In The U.S.

Known primarily for its rugged coastline and outdoor recreation, Maine is quickly gaining recognition as one of America's most exciting new sports destinations. This past spring, Maine's first professional soccer team, the Portland Hearts of Pine, created a buzz even before they took to the field. From the start, the club has framed itself as not only a sports franchise, but as a community-forward movement: “culture-led, community-built, and city-backed.” The team and their fan base signaled a new era for sports in Maine.

The buzz was amplified to a roar this summer when the Hearts of Pine played their inaugural international friendly against the Halifax Wanderers under the lights at Portland's Fitzpatrick Stadium. The game, which was added to their regular schedule, came about when Maine Governor Janet Mills, on behalf of the Hearts of Pine, asked Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston if the Halifax team would consider a cross-border match. The international friendly made sense geographically and symbolically – a chance to show that Maine is welcoming on the field and for a visit.

A video from the Maine Office of Tourism and the Hearts of Pine captures the excitement and community spirit surrounding Maine's first professional soccer match. The piece celebrates how sports unite fans and foster pride across borders—reflecting the energy and authenticity that define Maine's emerging sports culture.

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_9IGnKpawY

The Portland Hearts of Pine join a roster of established teams that bring year-round excitement to Maine, including the Portland Seadogs (Double-A baseball) the Maine Celtics (NBA G League) and the Maine Mariners (ECHK hockey). Together, these teams give fans the opportunity to see tomorrow's stars up close in an intimate, community-driven setting.

Maine's growing sports profile extends beyond the stadium. Fort Kent's Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races and the Camden Classics Cup sailing regatta are long-time events that highlight Maine's heritage; races and marathons like the Enduro Race Series, several gravel grind races, Beach to Beacon in Cape Elizabeth, the Dempsey Challenge in Lewiston/Auburn and the Mount Desert Island Marathon; and major endurance events like Ironman 70.3 Maine in Augusta and the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship at Sugarloaf have cemented the state's reputation as a premier destination for world-class competition surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

As sports take center stage globally with next year's FIFA World Cup and the Olympics, Maine is proving that a rural state can make a big impact on the sports stage with new teams, major events, and a passionate fan base. From the stadium lights of Portland to the mountain trails of Carrabassett Valley, Maine's love of sports runs deep. Whether you come to cheer, compete, or simply take it all in, Maine offers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable athletic experiences in every season.

Sebastian Errazuriz: Double Take November 22, 2025 – August 16, 2026 - At The Philadelphia Art Museum

The Philadelphia Art Museum is pleased to announce Sebastian Errazuriz: Double Take, a mid-career survey by artist and designer Sebastian Errazuriz (b. 1977, Chile). Running from November 22, 2025 – August 16, 2026, the exhibition will explore Errazuriz’s multi-hyphenate practice spanning art, craft, design, and technology, from antiquity-inspired furniture to multimedia work informed by artificial intelligence.

Bust Shelf Green Marble, 2018, designed by Sebastian Errazuriz

Alongside the exhibition, Errazuriz will be honored with the 39th Collab Design Excellence Award. Collab is the museum's affinity group for modern and contemporary design and has celebrated diverse international designers who have made important contributions that advance all disciplines of design. Collab was established in 1986 and presents the award annually. Previous awardees have included Florence Knoll Bassett, Naoto Fukasawa, Zaha Hadid, Ingo Maurer, George Nakashima, Gaetano Pesce, Patricia Urquiola, and Marcel Wanders, among others.

Errazuriz’s creative imagination challenges upheld ideas of what design should be and, moreover, asks what it could be. Embracing humor and appropriation, his limited-edition and unique pieces often have a subtext that goes beyond form or function to include personal narratives, political messages, and cultural commentary. While many of Errazuriz’s pieces are functional, his work upends a number of conventions established within the design industry, including the notions that form should follow function, or that materials should be used where most appropriate.

Sebastian Errazuriz: Double Take will present over 20 years of making, including early conceptual works that take nature and existing found objects as sources of inspiration. The exhibition will feature furniture, mirrors, and other products that the designer creates from appropriated and digitally manipulated Greco-Roman antiquities from museum collections. Also on display will be a range of the designer’s “kinetic” cabinets, defined by their moveable elements. Errazuriz is interested in disrupting the idea that cabinets must consist of a box with two front doors, regardless of their design. Instead, objects in Double Take propose a dynamic way of living with furniture that rotates, spins, and fans out in different directions.

A final, monumental installation will feature a full-wall graphic made up of drawings that Errazuriz has created through the use of artificial intelligence. Imagine is a new work, which spells out the word “IMAGINE” in neon lights, the letters flashing in alternating patterns to alight only “AGI” at certain points. Unlike current AI models which are trained for specific tasks, the concept of AGI, or artificial general intelligence, involves systems possessing human-like cognitive abilities, allowing them to learn new skills, adapt to novel situations, and demonstrate common sense and creativity without explicit pre-programming. This focal point of the exhibition explores Errazuriz’s fascination with, and apprehension about, the potential impact of AI on artists, designers, and culture more broadly.

“The diverse body of work by Sebastian Errazuriz conveys imagination and cleverness, while also bewildering those who encounter it. The pieces are meant to be lived with, but, at the same time, are provocations. They have an air of mystery around their function and meaning,” said Tiffany Lambert, The Lisa Roberts and David Seltzer Curator of Modern and Contemporary Design. “This survey exemplifies one way to understand and challenge how design can impact our daily lives.”

The Philadelphia Art Museum is a national and international destination for art, but first, they are Philadelphia’s art museum—for all of the many diverse communities of the city. Through their collections, exhibitions, events, educational activities, celebrations, and more, the museum is a storyteller, and they welcome everyone to be part of the story—their doors are wide open. To learn more, visit www.visitpham.org

Travelore News: Canadian Interest In U.S. Travel Improves Modestly

According to the latest Longwoods International tracking study of Canadian travelers, 56% of them do not intend to travel to the U.S. in the next 12 months, down from 61% in April. Of those Canadian travelers whose travel decisions are being influenced by U.S. policies and politics, 76% cited U.S. tariffs and economic policies as a negative influence, while 69% pointed to political statements by U.S. leaders as a negative factor. Canadian travelers also had negative reactions to political discontent in the U.S., U.S. rhetoric about Canadian sovereignty and U.S. positions on various social issues.

“The slight improvement in potential Canadian travel to the U.S. is encouraging,” said Amir Eylon, President and CEO of Longwoods International. “But the U.S. Travel Association predicts that international visitation to the U.S. will decline from 72.4 million in 2024 to 67.9 million this year largely because of fewer Canadian arrivals.”

The percentage of Canadian travelers postponing their U.S. trip declined to 22%, down from 29% in April. At the same time, more travelers are shortening their U.S. trips, 15% vs 10% in April.

The survey was fielded October 9 to 15, 2025 using a national sample randomly drawn from a consumer panel of 1,000 Canadian adults, ages 18 and over. The sample is representative of Canadian demographics for age, gender and province.

Longwoods International is a leading travel and tourism research consultancy with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio and Toronto Canada, and offices in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. It conducts Longwoods Travel USA®, the largest ongoing survey of American travelers, as well as image, advertising effectiveness, advertising return on investment, sentiment, and other custom research in 12 countries around the globe.

More Information – Longwoods International: https://longwoods-intl.com/

All The Stars And Bib Gourmands In The First MICHELIN Guide To Philadelphia 2025

The best restaurants in the City of Brotherly Love, according to their Inspectors.

There was a time when Philadelphia was overlooked by cities like New York and Washington, D.C. but anyone who knows this city can attest, nobody puts Philly in a corner. From its rebellion history to its enthusiastic sports fans, this is a city brimming with vitality, and its food scene is as exciting as Broad Street after an Eagles game.

The MICHELIN Inspectors discovered plenty to LOVE about Philly, with three restaurants earning a Star for the first time. Plus, in a city synonymous with cheesesteaks and casual eats, the Inspectors awarded Bib Gourmands to ten spots doling out everything from sandwiches to Mexican, pizza and hummus.

See all of their favorite spots around the City of Brotherly Love below.

One Star

Friday Saturday Sunday

Cuisine: American Contemporary

And Wednesday and Thursday. Chef Chad Williams and his wife Hanna, both Philadelphia natives, took over this veritable institution in 2016 and then pivoted to offering a set multicourse menu. It works well, as it allows the chef to provide a balanced, varied and consistent experience to all. Thanks to skilled technique, just the right amount of innovation and an innate understanding of the luxury ingredients he uses, his dishes fill the mouth with flavor and succulence. His delicious crispy sweetbreads will convert any skeptic; quail with pâte plays with texture, and the New York strip is a lesson in expert seasoning. Expect an atmosphere as spirited and enjoyable as the food; there’s also a great cocktail bar on the first floor.

©Clay Williams/Friday Saturday Sunday

Her Place Supper Club 


Cuisine: European Contemporary


The name says it all, as Chef Amanda Shulman’s cozy little spot was born out of her love for cooking for friends and has that warm and welcoming supper club vibe. Diners may get their own table but there’s a real communal feel at play here; everyone is served at the same time after each dish is explained to the room. Her multicourse set menu changes every two weeks, and the accomplished and balanced cooking comes with French and Italian accents. It also boasts a welcome lightness of touch, so you leave feeling sated rather than overwhelmed, although you can choose some extra dishes as add-ons if you wish. Saucing is a real strength, whether a barigoule served with brioche-crumbed trout, or the beurre blanc that accompanies the homemade chitarra pasta with clams.

©Bre Furlong/Her Place Supper Club

Provenance 


Cuisine: Contemporary


Chef Nicholas Bazik and his team know exactly what they’re doing in this historic row house. In full view of the counter, they deliver a high-wire, high-stakes performance defined by precision, harmony and, of course, taste. Korean and French influences come and go with this elaborate tasting menu where special soys, vibrant oils and glossy sauces give wonderful dimension to pristine seafood and dry-aged proteins. Think Japanese tuna with whipped tofu, puffed sorghum and chili oil or brown butter hollandaise with country ham, caviar and cauliflower. The ideas are original, the flavors bold. Such creativity hews closely to the seasons, and even a salad can arrive as a revelation. All the while, service is seamless and warmly choreographed.

©Nate Cluss/Provenance

Bib Gourmands

4th Street Deli

Cuisine: Deli

Angelo's

Cuisine: American

©Al Gamble/4th Street Deli

Dalessandro's


Cuisine: American

Del Rossi's


Cuisine: American

©Mike Prince/Del Rossi's

Dizengoff


Cuisine: Israeli

El Chingon


Cuisine: Mexican

©Nayla Polohovich/El Chingon

Fiorella


Cuisine: Italian

Pizzeria Beddia


Cuisine: Pizza

©John Troxell/Fiorella

Royal Sushi & Izakaya


Cuisine: Japanese

Sally


Cuisine: Pizza

©Jesse Ito/Royal Sushi & Izakaya

Green Star

Pietramala

Cuisine: Vegan

“Plants on a pedestal” is the tagline of this cozy vegan restaurant in Northern Liberties. Largely self-taught, Chef Ian Graye seeks out foragers and small local suppliers for those plants, herbs and fruits and also does his own fermenting and preserving. His menu offers a selection of around 10 dishes designed for sharing – around three per person should more than suffice when ordering – and his cooking comes with a slight Italian accent. "Golden beets" is a clever riff on a New York deli, while the pappardelle with morels impresses with its creaminess. The open kitchen takes up half the space of the main room, where greenery is juxtaposed with exposed bricks and ducts; there are also some tables in a smaller room at the back. The restaurant is always busy and the atmosphere contagiously convivial, so do book ahead – and remember it’s BYOB, with a corkage fee.

©Steve Boyle/Pietramala

Editor's note: There were a few interesting snubs including no recognition of Jean-Georges Philadelphia, when the New York location has two Michelin stars, and just recognizing Vetri Cucina.

A Brand-New $1.7 Billion Airport Terminal Is Opening In Pittsburgh Just In Time For Holiday Travel

As the holiday travel season ramps up, one U.S. airport is preparing to open a completely rebuilt terminal. The new terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)—which has been years in the making—is designed to ease crowding, streamline security screening, and help travelers move efficiently from curb to gate.

After several trials where locals tested the space from check-in to baggage claim, the new PIT has finally been given an official opening date ahead of Thanksgiving. Here's a look at what travelers can expect from the newly modernized airport and why early testers believe it could rival major U.S. hubs.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, one of the most searched Thanksgiving destinations for 2025, is getting a major travel upgrade this month as the city prepares to unveil its brand-new, $1.7 billion airport. The redesigned terminal officially opens on Tuesday, November 18, just in time for the travel rush.

The new facility is different from traditional airports, according to airport officials. Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport, says the terminal was built with Pittsburghers in mind.
"This is an airport built for Pittsburgh, by Pittsburgh. It improves the passenger experience and ensures this region remains on a global stage," said Cassotis.

Designed collaboratively by Gensler, Luis Vidal + Architects, and HDR, the new terminal focuses on efficiency. Among the improvements are a faster baggage claim, outdoor terraces, and a dedicated welcome area where travelers can meet their family and friends upon arrival. The redesigned terminal is also equipped with a larger and more advanced security checkpoint, reducing the time it takes to travel from curbside to the gates by half.

Visitors passing through the new Pittsburgh International Airport will also notice its beauty. Design elements throughout the terminal emphasize Pittsburgh's geological features.

"Undulating wood ceilings, tree-like columns, and a roofline inspired by rolling hills create a passenger experience that feels efficient and deeply local," wrote Gensler in a news release.

Another notable feature is the new Skybridge, which connects landside and airside areas with colorful lighting that changes throughout the day. In a news release, the airport describes it as "akin to journeying through a Pittsburgh street."

Locals who had the chance to preview the new terminal agreed that it’s both beautiful and a long-awaited upgrade for Pittsburgh.

Locals Say The New PIT Is "The Airport We Deserve"

Ahead of its official opening, Pittsburgh International Airport invited residents to put the new terminal to the test. On September 20, PIT hosted its first full public trial, welcoming more than 300 community volunteers, along with over 100 staff members and airline partners, to experience the terminal exactly as passengers would on its opening day.

This public test allowed participants to move freely throughout the terminal without guidance from operations staff, giving PIT a clearer picture of how the space functions in real-world conditions.

Feedback from the locals has been positive. One trial participant shared their thoughts on Reddit, praising the terminal's design and efficiency.

"The new check-in, security, and baggage claim areas are large and modern, with high ceilings and lots of natural light. Arrivals, departures, and transit are on three levels. There’s clear, helpful signage everywhere that includes TSA wait times. It’s the airport we deserve and will rival that of bigger cities," they wrote.

Other commenters echoed that excitement, saying they hope PIT becomes a hub that rivals those of bigger cities.

https://www.thetravel.com/author/karla-demery/

Travelore News: Israel And Morocco Set To Resume Direct Flights

Some 200,000 Israelis flocked to the North African country in 2022, many on “roots trips.”

The Jemaa el-Fnaa square and market place in the Medina quarter (Old City) of Marrakech, Morocco, Oct. 19, 2013. Photo by Boris Macek via Wikimedia Commons.

Jerusalem and Rabat are working to renew direct flights between their respective countries in the wake of last month’s ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza, the Israeli Transport Ministry said on Sunday.

The move highlights the resurgence of the Israeli aviation sector and the re-emergence of Tel Aviv as an international travel hub.

Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev has spoken with her Moroccan counterpart, Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh, and the two agreed to work toward the resumption of the flights, an Israeli Transport Ministry spokeswoman told JNS.

The flights on Israel’s national carrier El Al are expected to be restarted in the coming months.

Israel and Morocco, which for decades had maintained covert cooperation in the defense and intelligence sphere, formalized relations as part of the 2020 Abraham Accords that saw four Arab countries make peace with Israel under the first Trump administration.

Flights between the two countries were suspended two years ago after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that triggered the war in Gaza.

After Oct. 7, the Israeli National Security Council advised against nonessential travel to Morocco, a travel warning that is now expected to be lowered, enabling the resumption of flights.

“Before the outbreak of the war, Morocco was a very popular destination for Israelis, and the flights were full,” Yoni Waxman, deputy chairman of Israel’s Ophir Tours, told JNS on Sunday. “Israeli passengers are thirsty to return and explore Morocco, and it is just a question of time until it happens.”

An estimated million Jews of Moroccan descent live in Israel (including Israel’s transport minister); 200,000 Israelis flocked to Morocco in 2022, many on “roots trips.”

“Israelis really love Morocco,” said Shirley Cohen Orkaby, vice president for marketing at Israel’s Eshet Tours, who recently visited the North African country and was warmly received. “I expect very high demand the moment flights open up.”

https://www.jns.org/

Foreigners With Health Conditions May Be Denied Visas Under New Trump Administration Guidance

Medical conditions that may lead to denial include diabetes and obesity.

Foreigners seeking visas to live in the U.S. might be rejected if they have certain medical conditions, including diabetes or obesity, under a Thursday directive from the Trump administration.

The guidance, issued in a cable the State Department sent to embassy and consular officials and examined by KFF Health News, directs visa officers to deem applicants ineligible to enter the U.S. for several new reasons, including age or the likelihood they might rely on public benefits. The guidance says that such people could become a "public charge" -- a potential drain on U.S. resources -- because of their health issues or age.

While assessing the health of potential immigrants has been part of the visa application process for years, including screening for communicable diseases like tuberculosis and obtaining vaccine history, experts said the new guidelines greatly expand the list of medical conditions to be considered and give visa officers more power to make decisions about immigration based on an applicant's health status.

The directive is part of the Trump administration's divisive and aggressive campaign to deport immigrants living without authorization in the U.S. and dissuade others from immigrating into the country. The White House's crusade to push out immigrants has included daily mass arrests, bans on refugees from certain countries and plans to severely restrict the total number permitted into the U.S.

The new guidelines mandate that immigrants' health be a focus in the application process. The guidance applies to nearly all visa applicants but is likely to be used only in cases in which people seek to permanently reside in the U.S., said Charles Wheeler, a senior attorney for the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, a nonprofit legal aid group.

"You must consider an applicant's health," the cable reads. "Certain medical conditions -- including, but not limited to, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, cancers, diabetes, metabolic diseases, neurological diseases, and mental health conditions -- can require hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of care."

About 10% of the world's population has diabetes. Cardiovascular diseases are also common; they are the globe's leading killer.

The cable also encourages visa officers to consider other conditions, like obesity, which it notes can cause asthma, sleep apnea and high blood pressure, in their assessment of whether an immigrant could become a public charge and therefore should be denied entry into the U.S.

"All of these can require expensive, long-term care," the cable reads. Spokespeople for the State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the cable.

Visa officers were also directed to determine if applicants have the means to pay for medical treatment without help from the U.S. government.

"Does the applicant have adequate financial resources to cover the costs of such care over his entire expected lifespan without seeking public cash assistance or long-term institutionalization at government expense?" the cable reads.

The cable's language appears at odds with the Foreign Affairs Manual, the State Department's own handbook, which says that visa officers cannot reject an application based on "what if" scenarios, Wheeler said.

The guidance directs visa officers to develop "their own thoughts about what could lead to some sort of medical emergency or sort of medical costs in the future," he said. "That's troubling because they're not medically trained, they have no experience in this area and they shouldn't be making projections based on their own personal knowledge or bias."

The guidance also directs visa officers to consider the health of family members, including children or older parents.

"Do any of the dependents have disabilities, chronic medical conditions, or other special needs and require care such that the applicant cannot maintain employment?" the cable asks.

Immigrants already undergo a medical exam by a physician who's been approved by a U.S. embassy.

They are screened for communicable diseases, like tuberculosis, and asked to fill out a form that asks them to disclose any history of drug or alcohol use, mental health conditions or violence. They're also required to have a number of vaccinations to guard against infectious diseases like measles, polio, and hepatitis B.

But the new guidance goes further, emphasizing that chronic diseases should be considered, said Sophia Genovese, an immigration lawyer at Georgetown University. She also noted that the language of the directive encourages visa officers and the doctors who examine people seeking to immigrate to speculate on the cost of applicants' medical care and their ability to get employment in the U.S., considering their medical history.

"Taking into consideration one's diabetic history or heart health history -- that's quite expansive," Genovese said. "There is a degree of this assessment already, just not quite expansive as opining over, 'What if someone goes into diabetic shock?' If this change is going to happen immediately, that's obviously going to cause a myriad of issues when people are going into their consular interviews."

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

Disney World Is Opening 3 New Locations In 2026. Here’s The Full List

We’re seeing quite a few ride changes in 2026 at Disney World! Over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is getting a Muppets retheme, Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is finally reopening after a year-plus closure with new effects and an updated track, and big things are happening at EPCOT, including new faces coming to the animatronics of Frozen Ever After and Soarin’ getting an “Across America” update during the country’s 250th anniversary celebration. However, we’ll also be seeing multiple new locations pop up over the theme park resort.

©Disney

Disney has confirmed a new theme park area coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a new bar opening at a popular hotel, and has hinted at a new entertainment experience beginning work soon in Disney Springs. Without further ado, let’s check out these additions.

Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios permanently closed on September 25, 2025, and is being transformed into the Magic of Disney Animation! Part of the larger “Walt Disney Studios Lot” reimagining, this new offering will open in 2026 as a “special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot” in Burbank, California (including Mickey’s famous Sorcerer Hat). Here, Disney Animation characters will “leap off the screen and into our world.”

©Disney

The new land will keep Animation Courtyard’s The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents, while introducing brand-new experiences inspired by beloved Disney characters and the “Once Upon a Studio” short film. We’re getting updated meet-and-greets, new drawing classes, and interactive experiences for guests of all ages, such as play zones like a “Drawn to Wonderland” garden/playground setting. During the transformation, Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance permanently closed, although “a fresh Disney Jr. show” has been teased.

Over at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a new lobby bar is currently being installed.

Construction as of October 9th, 2025

Although it’s opening in 2025 (November 10th, to be exact), The Perch will still be fresh in 2026. This birdcage bar (inspired by a birdcage that was once found in the lobby) features beautiful woodwork, herringbone tile, and custom stained glass, all while serving up champagne, wine, beer, and two signature cocktails (the Sunshine State Rum Sazerac and the Floridian 75). A non-alcoholic option is also available (the Blueberry and Basil Iced Tea is a blend of lemon, blueberry, and basil tea).

While not confirmed to open in 2026, Disney has already begun hiring for Level99 in Disney Springs, and construction is underway, so we’ve begun speculating.

Construction walls

This space will be an interactive, social entertainment experience that presents “real-world, challenge-based, social entertainment” for adults. Expect to see physical and mental challenges set in artistic environments, such as 60 challenge rooms and duels in a futuristic arcade setting. The largest location of this chain, the Disney Springs Level99 will be 45,000 square feet in a two-story space and will feature dining with a chef-crafted menu — including LEVEL99’s award-winning Detroit-style pizza

Full spread at LEVEL99 at Natick, Massachusetts

https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/author/david-goodkind/

US Drops Biden Plan To Require Passenger Compensation For Delayed Flights

President Donald Trump's administration said on Friday it was formally withdrawing a plan by his predecessor to require airlines to pay passengers cash compensation when U.S. flight disruptions are caused by carriers.

In December 2024, the U.S. Transportation Department under then-President Joe Biden sought public comment on writing rules to require airlines to pay $200 to $300 for domestic delays of at least three hours and up to $775 for longer delays.

In September, USDOT first disclosed it planned to withdraw the proposal. On Friday, USDOT said the rules would result in "unnecessary regulatory burdens" in explaining why it would not go forward. Last month, a group of 18 Democratic senators urged the Trump administration not to drop the compensation plan.

"This is a common-sense proposal: when an airline’s mistake imposes unanticipated costs on families, the airline should try to remedy the situation by providing accommodations to consumers and helping cover their costs," said the letter signed by Democratic Senators Richard Blumenthal, Maria Cantwell, Ed Markey and others.

Airlines in the U.S. must refund passengers for canceled flights, but are not required to compensate customers for delays. The European Union, Canada, Brazil and Britain all have airline delay compensation rules. No large U.S. airline currently guarantees cash compensation for significant flight disruption.

USDOT said Friday in abandoning the compensation plan that it would "allow airlines to compete on the services and compensation that they provide to passengers rather than imposing new minimum requirements for these services and compensation through regulation, which would impose significant costs on airlines."

USDOT also announced in September it was considering rescinding Biden regulations requiring airlines and ticket agents to disclose service fees alongside airfares. It also plans to reduce regulatory burdens on airlines and ticket agents by writing new rules detailing the definition of a flight cancellation that entitles consumers to ticket refunds, as well as revisiting rules on ticket pricing and advertising.

Airlines have pushed the Trump administration to go further and praised the action to rescind the Biden plan.

https://www.reuters.com/authors/david-shepardson/

India Israel Direct Route Returns: Air India Relaunch From Delhi To Tel Aviv In 2026

In a major boost for travel between India and Israel, Air India is set to resume direct nonstop flights between New Delhi (DEL) and Tel Aviv (TLV) from 1 January 2026. This relaunch marks a significant step in reconnecting two dynamic travel markets and opening up fresh opportunities for both leisure and business travellers.

The service will operate five weekly flights, from Sunday through Thursday, using Air India’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. With the route taking a secure, shorter path through Saudi Arabian airspace, flight time is anticipated to be around five and a half hours, making this one of the fastest direct links between India and Israel in recent years.

For travellers based in India, the return of this route means easier access to Israel’s historic sites, vibrant cities, desert landscapes and Mediterranean coastline. From the Indian side, the ease of connecting without a layover will appeal to holiday‑makers, pilgrim groups, business travellers and anyone seeking a short international ‘escape’.

On the Israeli side, the relaunch is being hailed as a game‑changer. Officials at Israel’s Ministry of Tourism note that India has been a high‑priority market, and thanks to the new route the barrier of travel time and connectivity falls away. They expect strong growth in Indian visitor numbers, and hope this move will deepen cultural and business links between the countries.

What makes this announcement especially notable is the combination of timing, aircraft and frequency. A five‑times‑weekly schedule offers flexibility, and the Dreamliner fleet brings modern comfort and capability. For Indian travellers used to multi‑leg journeys, this direct link is a big step forward.

From a travel‑industry perspective, the relaunch has ripple effects. Tour‑operators, travel agents and hospitality providers in both countries are already gearing up. Indian travel firms are preparing Israel‑specific packages, which emphasise ease of travel, shorter flight times and the diverse appeal of Israel—from beaches to history, high tech hubs to spiritual sites. Israeli hotels and guest‑houses are readying to welcome more Indian tourists, offering tailored amenities and cultural‑friendly services.

Moreover, beyond tourism, the renewed connectivity signals stronger business and civic ties. India’s growing tech, startup and innovation ecosystem finds Israel’s ecosystem a compelling match, and easier air access smooths collaboration. For Jewish‑Indian links—heritage, diaspora, culture—the direct link is also significant.

For Indian travellers thinking about making the trip, here are some practical angles to keep in mind:

Booking early may bring better fares and availability, especially in the first few months of the relaunch.

Exploring extended itineraries that combine Israel with neighbouring regions (if visa and border rules allow) now becomes more feasible with the direct link.

Tailor‑made trips—from honeymooners and families to spiritual groups and business delegations—now have a new easy route.

Think about seasons: travelling in off‑peak windows may offer better value, fewer crowds and more immersive experiences in Israel.

Check entry‑/visa‑requirements well in advance. While direct flights make access smoother, travellers always benefit from preparation.

What is it like as a human experience? Imagine boarding a morning Delhi‑Tel Aviv flight, arriving mid‑morning local time, stepping out into the light as the Mediterranean breeze greets you, and you’re in a new country the same day. Or returning to Delhi in the evening after a few days in Tel Aviv, fresh from innovation‑hub tours, beach walks and historic explorations—all without cumbersome layovers. For many travellers such a schedule transforms a week‑long trip into something impactful.

There’s also something reassuring about a national carrier relaunching this route: it reflects airline confidence, regulatory approvals in place, operational readiness and strategic focus. It sends a message that travel between the two countries is moving into a new normal.

In short: the direct route between Delhi and Tel Aviv is back, better positioned for modern travellers and primed to unlock new stories, new journeys and new connections. Whether you’re heading for a short break, a business link‑up or a cultural dive, the skies between India and Israel are opening up once again.

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/

Inside The Jewish Museum’s $14.5m Renovation In New York City

The institution's revamped third and fourth floors present reconfigured galleries, expanded education spaces and a luminous display of more than 100 menorahs from around the world.

In 2018, when an old house in Prague was torn down, a stash of almost 700 works of art by Gertrud Kauders tumbled out of its walls and ceiling, more than 70 years after she had died in an extermination camp. Several of those paintings are now on display at the Jewish Museum in New York City, where renewed galleries offer fresh narratives of the Jewish diaspora.

Located in the historic Felix M. Warburg House on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the museum reopened its third and fourth floors on 24 October after a yearlong renovation. With a combined area of 20,000 sq. ft—half the building’s public space—the redesign was led by United Network Studio in Amsterdam and New Affiliates Architecture in New York. The $14m project is a significant milestone for James Snyder, the director of the Jewish Museum since 2023. In previous roles, he oversaw renewals on a larger scale: a $60m expansion of New York’s Museum of Modern Art in 1984, and a $100m revamp of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem in 2010.

Galleries on the third floor, last updated by Tsao & McKown in 2018, adopt a breezier, more interconnected layout to display items from the museum’s collection. Curated by theme, the rooms present centuries-old artefacts alongside Abstract Expressionist paintings by Mark Rothko and Robert Motherwell, as well as pieces from living artists that include queer and multicultural voices. In the feminist work What We Bring (2023) by Andi Arnovitz, thousands of laser-cut names of Jewish women—from Natalie Portman to Ruth Bader Ginsburg—pour forth from the artist’s wedding dress.

The fourth floor, previously closed to the public, is anchored by the Robert and Tracey Pruzan Center for Learning, which comprises two art studios, an interactive tactile wall and a simulated archaeological dig for children. The centre, which celebrates its opening on 16 November, is named after its lead donors—an investment banker who co-founded Centerview Partners and a writer who was a longtime interior designer at Cullman & Kravis and a lifestyle consultant on the HBO series Succession.

Also on the fourth floor are the Wilf Family Salon—an event space featuring a faux-woven mural by the Brooklyn-based artist Talia Levitt—additional galleries and a striking show of 139 Hanukkah lamps, housed in a 50ft vitrine that overlooks a double-height gallery below. Drawn from the museum’s collection of more than 1,000 pieces, the nine-branched menorahs are arranged geographically and reflect diverse cultures and stories of hope through the ages. There are lamps made of silver or stone, inspired by Roman tombs or Islamic art, influenced by Rococo or Art Deco, assembled with candlesticks, deconstructed violins or plastic Statues of Liberty.

Some are testaments to creativity born of constraint. One is a piece of trench art crafted from bullet casings and an artillery shell by American soldiers during the Korean War. Another is a hefty wooden creation hewn by a Turkish 15-year-old at a post-war orphanage in France. There is also lighter fare—like the Menurkey, a turkey-shaped menorah that marked the convergence of Hanukkah and Thanksgiving in 2013.

Founded in 1904 by the Jewish Theological Seminary, the Jewish Museum moved in 1947 to the Warburg House, a Gilded Age mansion built in the French Gothic style on Fifth Avenue facing Central Park. A $36m renovation in 1993 added a seven-storey annex, designed by Kevin Roche, that matched the style of the original architecture. In 2024, the chef David Teyf introduced the second location of his cafe Lox, taking over the basement space vacated by Russ & Daughters, which is wrapped by a Maira Kalman illustrated mural.

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/authors/fred-voon