Author: overtheborders

The new survey ranked countries based on visa refusal rates, passport power, green cards issued per 100,000 citizens, and online immigration-related searches per 10,000 peopleThis list highlights disparities in the US immigration system.(Image: Getty Images)The most challenging countries to move to the US from 2025 have been revealed, mostly on the same continent.The study, conducted by Brooks' law firm, analyzed several factors that influence the difficulties of immigration from various countries. This new study is because the United States is reassessing the immigration law led by President Donald Trump. Countries received scores based on four visa refusal rates, passport power,…

If you are planning a trip to Italy any time in the near future, we recommend listening to the advice of a country's tourism expert who has issued increasingly common scam alerts.Lauren Quacquarelli, who wrote several guidebooks on the country and the surrounding islands, provided insights into the tricks that catch visitors. “This is one of Italy's biggest tourist traps,” she began.The clip, posted to her @italianLife account, saw two vacationers preparing to hand over cash to a street vendor in return for their bracelet. Lauren, half of English and half of Italian, said, “There will be people around the…

We are proud to announce that ATTA® Action Awards is back in their second year. It continues to honor organizations across the travel and tourism sector in Africa that lead with purpose, innovation and measurable impact. Following the huge success of its 2024 launch, which welcomed over 90 entries, the 2025 program continues to celebrate its eight ATTA® parallel initiatives in Action Pillar inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These awards are open to organizations across the travel value chain, from accommodation providers and activity suppliers to nonprofits and international buyers. The winners of the award will be…

. (Image: 5 hotels and resorts)Surrounded by the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Five Palm Jumeirah redefines luxury through cutting-edge design and extraordinary comfort.Recognised as Dubai's best large luxury hotel by the prestigious 2023-2024 International Hotel Awards, it's no surprise that the resort continues to set the pace of Dubai's ever-evolving hospitality scene. Upon arrival I was immediately surprised by the wooden structured frame that rose like a double helix within a glass cube, catching the Dubai sun at every angle.The architecture was very impressive. I paused halfway through. It was captured not only by design but also by Instagramable opportunities in…

City Lodge Hotels is proud to be named again the highly anticipated Top 16 Youth Owned Brands Award (Yobas) 2025 Official Accommodation Partner. The 4th Annual Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Awards are scheduled to take place on June 21, 2025, and celebrate the best and brightest youth-owned brands in the country. As attendees travel from close to far, we make it easy for them to enjoy a seamless and comfortable stay just minutes from the event. Celebrate big and check it out easily! Select City Lodge Hotels Property in Sandon offers exclusive discounted rates to Yoba guests. City Lodge Hotel…

Hungary has introduced new laws banning LGBT+ meetings and marches where children may be present. The move could have an impact on iconic tourist attractions like Budapest Pride. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “Hungary has passed a law that can be used as a legal basis to prohibit future assembly and marching that portray or promote LGBT+ identities among minors.”The implementation of this law may result in participants in these “unauthorized events” identified by the authorities using facial recognition technology. If you realize you are involved in such an event, the fines loom as a possibility, and the penalty…

Observers have paid great attention to the latest ceasefire signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 rebels following many failed attempts to maintain peace in the past. The latest mediated peace attack in Qatar has come after thousands of deaths in the DRC in recent months alone. “By mutual agreement, the parties reaffirm their commitment to an immediate halt of hostilities, a categorical rejection of hate speech and threats,” read the joint statement released by the two parties on Wednesday.However, amid these tentative hopes for a lasting ceasefire, another development of the country appears to have…

Linda van Tilburg (00: 08.136) has global turbulence in the Trump era and continued uncertainty in South Africa, and there are South Africans still exploring offshore options for the future. Participating in the studio is Sara Young of Sable International, an immigration expert, sheds light on what is possible. Hello Sarah, thank you for participating.Sarah Young (00:29.676) Hello Linda, thank you for welcoming me.Linda Van Tilburg (00:32.91) Can you start by discussing how recent global turbulence has affected South Africans who are interested in offshore opportunities?Sarah Young (00:40.354) Yes, absolutely. I think the pace at which global change and change…

Botswana is committed to tackling infrastructure challenges in the tourism sector, positioning it as a strategic economic factor beyond mining. At the 2025 Hospitality and Botswana Tourism Association at MAUN, President Duma Boko highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to fully realize the tourism potential, suggesting that the sector can ultimately contribute to the country's GDP and surpass diamonds. Environment and Tourism Minister Winter Mmolots reaffirmed the growing importance of the sector and noted the recent growth of international arrivals of 18%. He emphasized that better roads, air and digital infrastructure are essential to maintain momentum, and that new flight…

Nigeria-based ValueJet is scheduled to begin a new direct flight route between Lagos and Banjul in Gambia from May 15, 2025. The service runs twice a week, departing from Lagos on Thursdays and Sundays and arrives in Banjul at 11:30pm. Return flights were scheduled for 00:30am on Monday and Friday, and returned to Lagos at 05:00am. The flight will operate from a new terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The new route is expected to strengthen regional travel and tourism links between Nigeria and the Gambia, opening opportunities for trade and leisure travel. Capt, Managing Director of ValueJet.…