Travelore News: Paris Overtourism Heats Up At Notre Dame And The Louvre

The latest symbols of overtourism are two iconic Paris attractions known worldwide. Notre Dame Cathedral has been overwhelmed by visitors since reopening after a destructive fire and the Louvre museum, home of the “Mona Lisa,” is a crumbling gilded palace, forced to close its doors due to crowds.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Since the December 2024 re-opening of Notre Dame Cathedral, the visitor experience has changed. While always a popular attraction for visitors to Paris, visits were more manageable prior to the fire of 2019.

Crowds have grown considerably, creating long lines of people standing in the forecourt outside the entrance. The average number of daily visitors to Notre Dame currently stands at 29,000, a nearly 20% increase since the re-opening. Depending on the day of the week and time of day, wait times range from 15 minutes to more than two hours.

Strategies for shortening wait time include going first thing in the morning or booking a 30-minute free tour with a timed entry ticket reservation online or via the app. Slots for party sizes up to six people are only available a few hours prior to entry and sell out quickly. Opening times at Notre Dame are normally 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and until 10 p.m. on Thursdays. The Saturday and Sunday hours are 8:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Three daily masses are celebrated at 8 a.m., 12 p.m., and 6 p.m.

Louvre Museum

At Musée du Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum, the doors were shuttered on at least one day last week, prompted by exhausted staff refusing to take up their positions.

CNN reports, “The Louvre welcomed 8.7 million visitors last year — more than double what its infrastructure was designed to accommodate. Even with a daily cap of 30,000, staff say the experience has become a test of endurance, with too few rest areas, limited bathrooms, and summer heat magnified by the pyramid’s greenhouse effect.”

“Roughly 20,000 people a day squeeze into the Salle des États, the museum’s largest room, just to snap a selfie with Leonardo da Vinci’s enigmatic woman behind protective glass.”

Tickets are required. Tours ae available in Engish, French, Spanish, and Italian. The Louvre hours are Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Extended hours to 9 p.m. are on Wednesday and Friday. Ticket prices are 22 euros, with free admission offered with proof of I.D. to everyone under age 18 and those under age 26 as a resident of the EEA (EU countries plus Norway, Iceland, and Lichtenstein). Additional free admssions are extended to disabled persons plus one, certain art instructors, and journalists with required credentials. Free admission to all is offered on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m., except during July and August.

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Spaceship Earth Closes After 42 Years At EPCOT

EPCOT’s 42-year-old Spaceship Earth ride shut down last week.

Spaceship Earth opened alongside EPCOT on October 1, 1982. The geodesic sphere immediately became the second Central Florida Disney park’s icon, featured in countless photographs, videos, and merchandise items over the last four decades.

Inside what many guests lovingly call the “EPCOT ball,” a slow-moving dark ride takes guests on a journey from the early days of humanity through centuries of innovation that led us to where we are today. When the omnimover reverses, an interactive digital screen appears, inviting guests to build their own futures through a series of multiple-choice questions.

Like any future-focused attraction, Spaceship Earth has faced criticism for being outdated, with the most recent update in 2007. In 2019, Walt Disney Imagineering announced plans for another update as part of the Future World reimagining at EPCOT.

However, the update was indefinitely postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Walt Disney World Resort did keep its promise to build an adults-only Spaceship Earth-themed lounge, GEO-82. It opened earlier this month.

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Americans Will Need To Apply For Permission To Visit Another Major Tourist Hotspot, South Africa

Ask any American who's been to the U.K., South Korea, or even Thailand recently. Now, it's South Africa's turn to jump on the bandwagon.

Starting this fall, Americans will no longer be able to land in the popular African country passport-in-hand only, unless they have been pre-approved for travel; they shouldn't even bother getting to the airport in the first place, as they will be denied boarding.

ETAs Will Be Mandatory For Americans Visiting South Africa From The Fall

It's a tricky world to navigate as an American.

If you think the era of travel restrictions and complicated border rules is past us, now that COVID is half a decade old, think again: ETAs are on the rise, and they seem to be here to stay.

First introduced by nations like Australia and New Zealand to strengthen their border control and ensure a stricter screening of foreign arrivals.

It has since then expanded to countries like the United Kingdom, South Korea, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, and soon enough, it will be introduced in Japan, and become widespread across much of Europe once the European Union's own version of an ETA, the long-delayed ETIAS, rolls out.

Americans wouldn't actually know unless they're very travel savvy, but even the United States and Canada have Electronic Travel Authorization systems in place—but then again, you're exempt from both as a U.S. passport holder.

The point is that ETAs have been sneakily becoming the norm rather than the exception for many years now, so it was only a matter of time before South Africa brought them in.

Easier Entry Into South Africa?

As confirmed by the South African Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, the South African ETA will go live in September 2025. It will apply to all current visa-exempt travelers, including Americans, who have been able to enter South Africa visa-free or with an e-visa up until now.

In Mr Schreiber's words, the South African ETA is designed to reduce long waiting times at the border, document fraud, alleviate ‘administrative burdens', and ‘digitize' visa and entry/exit processes.

Similar to the visa-waiver agreement signed between the United States and South Africa, the ETA will authorize Americans to stay for up to 90 days and become a mandatory requirement.

Unless you have applied for an ETA and hold a valid travel permit, you will no longer be authorized to embark a South Africa-bound flight or cross the South African border.

How Will The South African ETA Work?

During their application for a South African ETA, Americans will be expected to fill out an online questionnaire, upload their passport information, and answer a series of questions about their personal lives and travel details.

ETA forms typically take 5-10 minutes to complete, and you're usually required to pay a processing fee at the end.

They are then processed online, and in most cases, you will receive approval directly from the email address you provided when applying.

Regrettably, at this stage, we have no information regarding the process itself, as the platform has not been released, nor processing fees, though ETAs typically cost between $5 and $23, depending on the country.

The question of validity has not been addressed, either: will the South African ETA be valid for a single entry? Will it be valid for multiple entries over a period of 2–5 years, like other ETAs currently available in the market?

We will be sure to report back as soon as those details are known.

Will It Replace The Current e-Visa?

South African authorities have yet to clarify whether the new system will completely replace the current e-Visa system, open to citizens of 30 countries (excluding the United States).

It is unclear whether the current e-Visa, introduced back in 2019, and the soon-to-be-launched ETA will be merged, or whether they'll stay separate, with distinct application processes and fees.

As the minister has confirmed, we do know that it will be fully issued digitally and can be stored in an applicant's smartphone wallet, right next to their bank cards and flight tickets.

As he described, it will include a QR code that can be easily flashed for verification by both check-in staff at airport counters, and later by border officers upon landing at one of South Africa's international airports.

Traveling abroad in the near future? Don't let these ever-changing entry requirements catch you by surprise: check out our new TOP Checker, with real-time updates for visa policies traveling to every country in the world.

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Travelore Tips: TSA Bans 7 Food Items Including Popular Snacks

Packing snacks for your flight can be a great way to cut costs and avoid airport food—but not all of them will pass through TSA.

Bringing your own snacks on a flight is a smart way to save money and stay full—but not everything in your bag will make it through TSA. Some foods that seem fine, like dips or spreads, don’t meet the carry-on rules and could get tossed at security delaying your travels.

TSA limits liquids, gels, and anything spreadable to 3.4 ounces or less in carry-on bags. That includes things like hummus, peanut butter, and yogurt. If you're bringing any of those, make sure the container is small enough or plan to pack it in your checked luggage. Here are some snacks to double-check before you fly.

Meanwhile, TSA isn't only banning snacks, they have also banned seven travel essentials.

Creamy Cheeses

Cheeses like Brie or anything spreadable are limited. If it’s more than 3.4 ounces, TSA will make you toss it.

Honey

If it’s over 3.4 ounces and in your carry-on, you’ll have to leave it behind.

Hummus

Hummus and pretzels are great for the road, but hummus is considered a liquid. Most single-serve packs are too big, so check the label before packing.

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter won't get through security unless it’s in a container under 3.4 ounces.

Salsa

Salsa is another one that’s considered a liquid. Anything over 3.4 ounces needs to go in your checked bag.

Pudding

TSA counts pudding as a liquid. Some snack cups sneak in under the limit, but others—like KozyShack—are too big.

Yogurt

Yogurt is also on the list. A lot of pouches or cups are just over the limit, so they’ll likely get flagged at security.

Bottom line- if you're packing snacks for your flight, double check the size and type before tossing them in your carry-on. Anything creamy, spreadable, or gel-like needs to be 3.4 ounces or less or it won’t make it past security.

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New Direct Flight From Los Angeles International To Tepic Unlocks Gateway To Treasures of Nayarit

The state of Nayarit is thrilled to announce a new direct flight with Volaris Airlines connecting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ), ushering in an exciting new era of travel for visitors eager to discover the cultural, culinary, and natural treasures of inland and coastal Nayarit. This brand-new route is more than just a convenient travel option. It’s a gateway to an entirely different side of Mexico.

Volaris Airlines will operate direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ) three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Flights depart LAX at 11:37 a.m., arriving in Tepic at 2:27 p.m. Return flights leave TPQ at 6:50 p.m., landing back in Los Angeles at 9:48 p.m.

Often overshadowed by the more visited Riviera Nayarit beach destinations, like Nuevo Nayarit, Punta Mita, and Sayulita, the interior of the state offers a completely different experience. Tepic, Nayarit’s capital city, is a launchpad for adventures that blend the historic, the mystical, and the delicious. Now, with this direct connection from Los Angeles, travelers can skip the crowds and dive straight into a region teeming with Magical Towns, volcanic lakes, ancient traditions, and pristine coastline.

A New Kind of Mexican Getaway

From Tepic, travelers are within striking distance of some of Nayarit’s most fascinating destinations. In just 30 minutes, you can find yourself watching the waves roll in at Matanchen Bay or sipping coffee in the sleepy seaside village of Aticama. A scenic 40-minute drive takes you to the crater lake of Santa María del Oro, a sparkling turquoise gem perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding by the water.

History buffs and culture lovers can explore the cobblestone streets of Compostela and Jala, both designated Pueblos Mágicos for their cultural richness and well-preserved heritage. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit Mexcaltitán, the mystical island town thought to be the legendary Aztlán, birthplace of the Aztecs. Just 90 minutes from Tepic, this “Venice of Mexico” offers a surreal, waterbound village experience that’s unlike anything else in the country.

Nature enthusiasts can head to Presa Aguamilpa, just 50 minutes from the capital, to fish, birdwatch, or enjoy boat rides among the verdant Sierra Madre landscapes. And for those craving sun and surf, Platanitos, Chacala, and Guayabitos, beachfront paradises often overlooked by international tourists, are all reachable in under two hours by car.

My Beautiful Nayarit: Curated Adventures Await

To help visitors make the most of this newly accessible region, Nayarit Adventures has launched an immersive four-day, three-night package called My Beautiful Nayarit. Designed to showcase

the state’s cultural depth and ecological wonders, the package includes hotel accommodations and guided tours for travelers flying into Tepic. For guests originating in other cities or states, the package also includes private transfers to Tepic.

The thoughtfully curated itinerary explores:

San Blas: A historic port town with colonial architecture, mangrove estuaries, and spectacular sunsets.

Coral Islands at Rincón de Guayabitos: A protected marine sanctuary offering excellent snorkeling and birdwatching.

El Nayar: A journey into the traditions of the Cora and Huichol Indigenous communities, rich with ritual and handicrafts.

Santa María del Oro: A day of leisure and adventure at the region’s iconic volcanic crater lake. Culinary and Cultural Riches

Nayarit’s gastronomy is another draw for travelers in the know. In Tepic, indulge in local

specialties like zarandeado fish, slathered in local spices and grilled over an open flame, and pacholas, a spiced meat dish served with handmade tortillas. Coastal towns offer fresh seafood pulled straight from the Pacific, while mountain villages produce cheeses, coffees, and sweets that reflect generations of artisanal expertise.

Meanwhile, festivals and religious celebrations bring towns to life with color, music, and centuries-old traditions. Whether it’s the Danza de los Mexicas or sacred Huichol ceremonies, there’s always something beautiful to witness.

With competitive pricing, convenient travel times, and increasing international interest in lesser-known destinations, the LAX-TPQ connection is set to become a major draw for travelers seeking richer cultural and nature-focused experiences off the traditional tourist track.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, Nayarit is a state of remarkable diversity. From surfing in Sayulita to birdwatching in San Blas, from the folkloric traditions of the Sierra to the boutique resorts of the coast, Nayarit delivers a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveler. With new infrastructure, growing international connectivity, and renewed focus on sustainable tourism, the state is ready to welcome the world, starting with this new flight.

For more information about the State of Nayarit, visit visitnayarit.travel. To learn more about the My Beautiful Nayarit package, visit nayaritadventures.com.

Inside Capital One's New 'flagship' Lounge At JFK With Impressive Amenities

Welcome inside the brand-new Capital One Lounge at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), the first credit card-branded lounge to be open 24/7.

This new Capital One Lounge is also home to a few other firsts, including the first "flagship"-branded outpost in the issuer's network, the first with a cheesemonger, the first with a reimagined bodega-style grab-and-go counter, the first to measure nearly 13,500 square feet and much more.

As you can probably already tell, Capital One pulled out all the stops for its first New York outpost. While the issuer might tell you it's because New York is such an important market for its cardmembers, the truth is that JFK, and Terminal 4 in particular, is perhaps the most competitive airport for credit card-branded lounges.

Here's everything you need to know about this brand-new lounge opening Thursday, June 19.

Capital One Lounge JFK access

The $395-
per-year Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the primary way most travelers can access a Capital One Lounge.

Given the changes coming for authorized user and guest access, being a primary Venture X cardholder will become the most practical way to access airport lounges.

Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the Venture X will no longer provide complimentary lounge access to authorized users, nor will it offer automatic complimentary guest access to Capital One Lounges and Capital One Landings for primary cardholders.

Primary cardholders will have the option to pay $125 annually for each authorized user to maintain access to all lounges included with the card (Capital One Lounges, Capital One Landings and Priority Pass lounges). Primary cardholders who want to bring guests into the lounge will need to spend $75,000 a year on their card to unlock this benefit.

The new Capital One Lounge is the first in the network to be open 24/7. While that might be a bit surprising — especially since Terminal 4 only sees a handful of departures between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m., according to Cirium timetables — Capital One didn't actually have a choice in the matter.

One of the nonnegotiable aspects of its lease was that the lounge space must be open around the clock.

The Capital One Lounge at JFK is in the airport's iconic Terminal 4, home primarily to Delta Air Lines' big hub operation, as well as a slew of other international carriers.

If you're flying from Terminal 4, you'll find the lounge just past security on the departures level, which is one level below the entrances to the American Express Centurion Lounge, the Chase Sapphire Lounge and the Delta One Lounge.

The Capital One Lounge is in the central corridor connecting the A and B gates in Terminal 4, but it is a bit closer to the B pier. Either way, expect a long walk to the end of either the A or B pier and plan your visit accordingly.

If you're not flying from Terminal 4, you could theoretically use the lounge before departure by taking the AirTrain from another terminal, but you'll need to clear security twice and allot enough time to make it back to your departure terminal before your flight.

By Zach Griff

Central Park’s Only Formal Garden Reopens After A $25M Upgrade

The Central Park Conservatory Garden might go unnoticed compared to other locations, but it is very much worthy of a visit.

While there are plenty of locations to explore within NYC’s communal backyard, the Central Park Conservatory Garden is not one you’d want to skip. The six-acre destination is nestled between 104th to 106th Street and just reopened after a three-year, $25 million restoration. Famous for its tulips, summer perennials, and chrysanthemums — among other flora — this scenic spot is one of the most romantic in the city and oftentimes serves as a wedding venue. Consider it a taste of Europe uptown thanks to its three main features: the English Garden, the Italianate Center Garden, and the French Garden.

Just in time for the nice weather this summer, the grounds are back up and running, waiting for New Yorkers to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a brief respite into nature.

All about the Central Park Conservatory Garden

According to reps from Central Park, this is considered the most significant investment in the area since its original construction in 1937 — a.k.a. upgrades were long overdue. Among some of the upgrades include: restoration of the historic bluestone pavers, upgraded stormwater drainage and grading, modernized fountains and electrical systems, and installed ramps and realigned paths for universal access. Now that the garden is in full bloom, much like NYC’s graduating seniors, the Conservancy will have pro photographers on site on June 16th and 18th from 1-4pm to take portraits of local graduates. Betsy Smith, President and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy, said, “This special portrait project celebrates two meaningful transitions: the reopening of one of the Park’s most cherished spaces, and the next chapter for these young New Yorkers. It’s a wonderful example of our continued commitment to investing in the northern end of the Park, ensuring that future generations can gather here to celebrate life’s important milestones in a vibrant and welcoming setting.”

Although spots have filled up, definitely keep it in mind for your future graduation snaps, or if you just want a sweet nature selfie right in the middle of NYC. This is the perfect place to find it.

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