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Visas + Passports

You’ll Need a Visa to Enter Japan Now

In addition to numerous strict conditions for entering Japan, visa-free travel from the U.S. is currently suspended.

June 16, 2022 09:46 AM

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Michelle Baran

New Zealand's newly opened borders reveal a variety of stunning landscapes.

Where to Travel Next

6 Reasons to Book a Trip to New Zealand Now

There’s a lot going on, including new sea kayaking adventures, a home for Māori art, and a manuka honey meadery.

August 19, 2022 12:36 PM

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Tim Chester

COVID + Travel

Israel Drops Testing Requirement for Travelers

The Middle Eastern country is the latest to lift certain pandemic travel restrictions, including predeparture and postarrival COVID testing.

May 20, 2022 05:04 PM

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Bailey Berg

View of Rome's Pantheon from the inside looking out, with people roaming within and colorful buildings outside

Europe’s new ETIAS authorization entry procedure is slated to go live sometime in 2024. Here’s what European authorities told us when asked about a specific launch date.

August 4, 2023 07:58 PM

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Michelle Baran

Travelers should set aside four to six weeks to get a new passport or expect to pay more for expedited services.

Travel Tips + Etiquette

How Long Does It Take to Get a New U.S. Passport Now?

No need to scramble days before your trip when you know how long the passport process takes.

January 22, 2025 08:42 AM

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Ramsey Qubein

FossilPiece_RedFleetStatePark_Shutterstock_DFrost

National Parks

How to Go Fossil Hunting in America’s Dinosaur Country

Meet at the corner of Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming to view ancient fossils and natural wonders and to sleep under star-studded skies.

March 25, 2024 12:44 PM

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Nick Hilden

Art + Culture

The Office Actor Rainn Wilson Explores How Other Cultures Find Happiness in New Travel Show

‘Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss’ premieres on May 18 on Peacock. AFAR interviewed the actor and host about the surprising secrets to joy he found on his global quest.

May 17, 2023 07:34 PM

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Kathleen Rellihan

Volcano covered by a cloud in the daytime

Beaches

The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

With so many things to do in Costa Rica, here’s what you need to know about when to visit.

December 14, 2023 11:08 AM

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Erin Van Rheenen

COVID + Travel

Omicron Travel Bans Take Huge Toll on South African Safaris

New travel restrictions are casting a gloomy shadow over the already hard-hit safari industry.

December 7, 2021 03:45 PM

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Sebabatso Mosamo

Seaside shot of a Greek Island with white-washed houses on a hill overlooking the sea.

Destination Spotlight

What’s the Next Hot Retirement Destination? Hint: It’s Rich in Sea Air, Healthy Living, and Ouzo

More and more Americans are choosing to enjoy their golden years in Greece.

October 23, 2025 11:25 AM

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Meagan Drillinger

A view of the White House as seen from the back of the building with its columns, curved balconies, and a fountain and lawn in the foreground

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