Listen to today’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/silk-logic-travel-daily/id1842162269
Travel Daily Podcast — December 28, 2025
Today’s podcast episode was created from the following stories:
Planning a 2026 holiday? Don’t forget to check whether your passport is expiring
Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has launched the “Don’t Be That Person” campaign urging travelers to check passport validity early when planning 2026 trips. The Passport Online service supports renewals and first-time applications for Irish citizens at home and abroad, helping families avoid last-minute stress. Bottom line: check those expiration dates now and apply early.
State of emergency declared in New York as US storm disrupts thousands of flights
A powerful winter storm hit the Northeast during one of the year’s busiest travel weekends, prompting states of emergency in New York and New Jersey and causing more than 1,500 flight cancellations or delays. New York City saw about 4 inches of snow, with airports warning of ongoing disruptions and ripple effects reaching other hubs. If you’re flying, keep a close eye on airline alerts and be ready for schedule changes.
10 Days China Tour from SYD/MEL $888 Per Person Twin Share ($555 Solo Surcharge) @ TripADeal
TripADeal has a 10-day China package for 2026 starting at AUD $888 per person twin share (AUD $555 solo surcharge), including full-service return flights, one internal flight, eight nights in 4-star hotels, daily breakfast, and English-speaking guides. Australian and New Zealand passport holders currently enjoy 30-day visa-free entry through the end of 2026, and the tour is adults-only (18+) with a fixed itinerary. Dates appear limited, so check availability and terms before booking.
Reisen im Jahr 2026: worauf Urlauber sich jetzt einstellen müssen
Travel in 2026 brings key changes: Bulgaria adopts the euro, the UK will strictly enforce ETA checks from February 25, Italy plans toll refunds for long construction-related delays, and Venice expands day-tripper fees. Expect a new entry charge at the Netherlands’ Zaanse Schans, easier cross-border rail ticketing via Deutsche Bahn by 2026, a U.S. proposal to review travelers’ recent social-media posts under ESTA, and Spain’s shift to V16 warning lights for Spanish-registered cars. Travelers should budget for fees, confirm documentation, and review local rules before departure.
National Consumer Helpline ends 2025 with Rs 45 crore recovered for citizens
India’s National Consumer Helpline recovered Rs 45 crore while resolving 67,265 grievances in 2025, with e-commerce complaints leading and travel/tourism close behind. The pre-litigation platform delivers faster, lower-cost resolutions via phone, WhatsApp, app, and web, reducing the burden on courts. For travelers and shoppers, it’s a practical first stop when refunds or service issues hit a snag.
S7 Airlines set to bridge Novosibirsk and Ashgabat with weekly flights
S7 Airlines will launch weekly Novosibirsk–Ashgabat flights starting March 2026 on Airbus A320 aircraft, with both outbound and return legs operating Tuesdays. Travelers can choose Standard or Plus fares and add services like seat selection, extra baggage, or upgrades. The route expands connectivity between Russia and Turkmenistan beyond S7’s existing Moscow–Ashgabat service.
