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