seats

Southwest Airlines Ditches Open Seating After 50+ Years, Assigned Seats Coming in January

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Southwest Airlines is turning a major page in its history. Starting January 27, the beloved (or dreaded, depending on who you ask) open-seating policy will be a thing of the past. For the first time, passengers will board with pre-assigned seats, the company confirmed to CNBC. Tickets for the new seating model go on sale July 29.

The change marks the end of a defining feature of Southwest’s brand, one that has set it apart from other U.S. carriers for decades. Since its early days, Southwest has allowed passengers to board in groups and pick any available seat.

That policy, along with its generous perk of two free checked bags, has long been a draw for budget-conscious travelers. Still, both offerings are being reevaluated as the airline strives to remain competitive and boost profitability.

Southwest’s shift is part of a sweeping business overhaul aimed at driving new revenue. In March, the carrier also announced it would begin charging for checked bags for most customers and introduced new fare categories. Premium ticket buyers will be spared from some of the added fees and limitations.

The company insists these changes won’t slow down operations. Stephanie Shafer Modi, Southwest’s managing director of fares and ancillary products, told CNBC that by using live trials and computer simulations, Southwest has tested the efficiency of its new system, focusing on minimizing turnaround time and protecting its reputation for rapid boarding.

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“We wanted to make sure that, as we designed a boarding construct that sort of paired well with assigned seating, that we were optimizing for efficiency, but also the second priority: balancing that with making sure that we’re taking care of our most loyal customers, so tier members, cardholders and customers who buy our most premium products.”

With the rollout, the familiar sights of A-B-C boarding groups, early-bird alarm clocks, and the aisle dash for favorite seats will soon be history. In their place will be a more structured system with eight boarding groups based on fare class, loyalty status, and seat selection.

Groups 1 & 2 will include elite frequent flyers and holders of premium fares. Groups 3 through 8 will be assigned based on ticket class (like “Choice” and “Basic”) and seat location. Members of the Rapid Rewards credit card program will be guaranteed boarding by Group 5 at the latest. Passengers will line up in two queues under the new system.

The airline hasn’t revealed how much it will charge for seat selection, a fee that varies widely on other airlines depending on the flight and demand. Fare class will also determine access to certain seats, with three options: Standard, Preferred, and Extra-Legroom.

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According to Modi, customer feedback made it clear that sitting together is a top priority, especially for families.

“I think that if families want that sense of control, they have the option to pick their seats through our existing products that we’re selling. We will try to do our best to make sure that families are seated together no matter how they buy a ticket.”

To prepare for this shift, Southwest has been busy reworking its fleet. Around 200 of its Boeing aircraft, or roughly a quarter of its total fleet, have already been retrofitted with extra-legroom seating, a spokesperson said. While these upgraded seats aren’t officially on sale yet, the airline has been offering early boarding passes to improve customers’ chances of snagging one.

The airline states that its broader transformation plan is expected to generate an additional $800 million in earnings before interest and taxes this year, increasing to $1.7 billion by 2026. It first teased the end of open seating last year, but didn’t reveal a timeline until now.

With this dramatic shake-up, Southwest is betting that structured seating will generate revenue without compromising speed and that loyal customers will remain with the airline, even as it trades spontaneity for structure.

subway

As Rain Pounds NYC, a Century-Old Subway System Struggles to Stay Afloat

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On Monday night, a slow-moving storm swept through New York City, turning subway stations into makeshift waterfalls and disrupting commutes across the five boroughs. By Tuesday morning, trains were mostly back on schedule. Still, the episode served as a soggy reminder of how vulnerable the city’s century-old transit system is to the growing threats posed by climate change.

At least 20 of the city’s 472 subway stations were temporarily shuttered during the storm, including several major Manhattan stops along the 1, 2, 3, and 6 lines. Cascades of water streamed through entrances and platforms, with footage from riders capturing torrents rushing into the 23rd and 28th Street stations. Widespread service delays followed as Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) crews scrambled to manage the deluge.

“When it rains here in New York, it sucks. I don’t know what is going on, the drainage, I mean, look at this. God forbid if someone slips and falls in this,” one frustrated rider told CBS News.

“It’s super frustrating. People just want to go home. These are not the conditions that New Yorkers deserve to be traveling in.”

New York’s subways are underprepared for the intense rainfall events that are becoming more common in the Northeast. In fact, regional projections show that within 25 years, the frequency of such heavy rainstorms could nearly double.

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“We have all of the subway lines operating, Metro-North, Long Island Rail Road,” MTA CEO Janno Lieber told CBS News New York on the progress of repairs. “People worked overnight, worked their tails off, to make sure that we could accommodate our customers this morning.”

While the MTA has implemented some resilience measures, the broader transit network remains highly susceptible to water. Tunnels are laced through dense bedrock and surrounded by groundwater. Even on dry days, MTA workers remove between 10 and 13 million gallons of water from the system. On Monday night alone, more than 15 million gallons were pumped out, a surge exacerbated by a sewer system that simply couldn’t keep up.

New York’s sewer infrastructure, much like its subway, dates back to the early 20th century. Most of the city is served by a combined sewer system, which handles both waste and storm runoff through the same pipes. These pipes were designed to withstand approximately 1.75 inches of rain. Monday’s storm dumped over 2.5 inches in parts of the city, overwhelming the system and causing water to spill into the subway.

Rohit Aggarwala, commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, which manages the city’s sewer and water systems, boiled the issue down to the key fact.

“What happened last night is really quite simple. The pipes were designed for a certain amount of water. A lot more water fell from the sky.”

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The porous design of the subway only compounds the problem. Station entrances, stairwells, elevator shafts, and ventilation grates are each a passage for floodwater to enter. Every opening is a vulnerability, Klaus Jacob, a geophysicist and professor emeritus at Columbia University, told The New York Times.

“It’s not just an MTA issue — the flash flooding has to do with insufficient drainage, and that’s a city issue.”

Lieber put it simply, stating, “The system is not a hermetically sealed submarine.” Still, the agency has taken steps to bolster its defenses, including the development of automatic closures for the system’s 39,000 street-level air vents. However, such upgrades come with a steep price tag, and the MTA has requested an additional $6 billion for stormwater and coastal flooding improvements.

The Department of Environmental Protection, for its part, is pursuing multiple fronts,  modernizing sewer lines, expanding green infrastructure projects, and maintaining the city’s 150,000 catch basins. However, with only $1 billion allocated annually for sewer work and an estimated $30 billion needed, progress will be slow.

“The reality is we are going to do as much work as we possibly can, but number one, we can’t protect against absolutely everything, and this is a long-term project – there’s no way around it,” said Aggarwala.

north korea

North Korea Unveils Beach Resort, Kim Jong-un Hails It As One Of Nation’s ‘Greatest Feats’

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This week, North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and his family visited the newest tourist attraction for the nation, a new beach resort. The Wonsan Kalma is being described as a coastal resort that will one day host foreign visitors. 

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The resort is being hailed as one of the nation’s greatest feats of the year, according to the state-run KCNA news agency. 

Kim was joined by wife Ri Sol-ju and daughter Kim Ju-ae, and the three were seen relaxing poolside with a pack of cigarettes, cold drinks, and towels. They watched along as fresh visitors made their way through the resort and waterslides. 

The family also were photographed along a long beach with hotels in the distance. North Korea has been making world headlines this year for its material support for Russia’s war against the Ukraine and targeting of Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons program, so the outing seemed to be a part of North Korea’s “soft-focus coverage” of the family, according to reports.

The resort is located on the east coast of the nation and includes sports and recreational facilities with commercial and public catering services. 

KCNA stated that Kim “expressed belief that the wave of the happiness to be raised in the Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist area would enhance its attractive name as a world-level tourist cultural resort.” 

“Authorities hoped the resort would attract 20,000 visitors a year after it opens on 1 July,” KCNA said. 

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Kim cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony for the resort, and stated that it would “play a leading role in establishing a tourist culture” for the nation. 

The Wonsan Kalma is currently only open to locals, but North Korea as a whole has been slowly loosening their restrictions on overseas visitors that were initially implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Regular tourism is effectively banned in North Korea, however, Russian tourists have been able to visit certain parts of the nation on group tours. 

It’s unclear when or how North Korea would open up their resort, and nation, to tourism, but the intention was made clear with this first family visit for the opening of the resort. 

This also marked Ri-sol’s first public appearance since the New Year in 2024, according to South Korean media. The first-daughter has been regularly seen with her father since 2022, causing speculation that she is being prepped to become the fourth member of the Kim dynasty, and the first woman to hold the role since North Korea was founded in 1948.

louvre

Louvre Closes as Staff Protest Overwhelming Crowds and ‘Untenable’ Conditions

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The Louvre, internationally renowned as the most visited museum and a cherished symbol of culture and resilience, was unexpectedly closed on Monday because its staff had reached a breaking point. Exhausted employees claim the famed institution is on the verge of collapse internally, burdened by unprecedented visitor numbers and inadequate resources.

The sudden walkout began unexpectedly during a regular internal meeting. Staff, including gallery guards, ticket handlers, and security personnel, collectively refused to resume their duties, protesting extreme crowding, persistent understaffing, and working conditions described by union representatives as “untenable.”

“It’s the Mona Lisa moan out here,” said Kevin Ward, a 62-year-old visitor from Milwaukee, stranded among crowds beneath architect I.M. Pei’s iconic glass pyramid. “Thousands of people waiting, no communication, no explanation. I guess even she needs a day off.”

The museum, famous for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces and numerous historical artifacts, stood idle; yet, the situation resonated far beyond a typical workplace dispute, highlighting a broader issue—overtourism. As iconic destinations like Venice and Greece’s Acropolis increasingly restrict crowds, the Louvre faces its own critical moment of reckoning.

This closure follows closely on the heels of President Emmanuel Macron’s ambitious initiative, announced earlier this year—a ten-year renovation project aimed at resolving longstanding issues, including leaking ceilings, destructive temperature fluctuations, outdated infrastructure, and overwhelming visitor numbers. However, frontline employees, such as Sarah Sefian from the CGT-Culture union, argue that these long-term plans fail to address their immediate, critical concerns.

“We cannot endure six more years waiting for solutions. Our teams are already stretched beyond their limits. It isn’t only about preserving art—it’s about protecting the people who safeguard it.”

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While rare, the Louvre has previously shut its doors during wartime, pandemics, and several past labor strikes, including those sparked by overcrowding in 2019 and security concerns in 2013. Yet Monday’s closure struck differently, as confused tourists stood in lines, tickets ready, but without any official explanation for the abrupt halt.

At the heart of the museum’s overcrowding woes remains Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, a 16th-century painting that attracts massive daily crowds. Approximately 20,000 visitors daily cram into the Salle des États to catch a fleeting glimpse of the famed portrait. The room frequently becomes disordered, with visitors maneuvering aggressively for selfies, scarcely noticing surrounding masterpieces by artists like Titian and Veronese.

Ji-Hyun Park, 28, who traveled from Seoul, told The Associated Press that the scene inside the museum was chaotic.

“You don’t see a painting. You see phones. You see elbows. You feel heat. And then, you’re pushed out.”

President Macron’s renovation project, titled the “Louvre New Renaissance,” aims to improve this situation. Plans include providing the Mona Lisa with a separate exhibition space accessible through timed-entry reservations and adding a new visitor entrance by the Seine River by 2031, easing pressure from the congested pyramid entrance.

“Conditions of display, explanation and presentation will be up to what the Mona Lisa deserves,” Macron stated in January.

Last year, the Louvre recorded an overwhelming 8.7 million visitors, more than double its originally designed capacity. Despite capping daily admissions at 30,000, staff report a severe strain, inadequate restroom facilities, and limited rest spaces, with the intensified summer heat exacerbated by the glass pyramid’s greenhouse-like conditions.

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In a recently leaked internal memo, Louvre President Laurence des Cars revealed stark realities, describing parts of the museum as no longer watertight and susceptible to damaging temperature swings. She further highlighted serious inadequacies in basic visitor amenities—like dining areas, restrooms, and signage—declaring the visitor experience “a physical ordeal.”

“What began as a scheduled monthly information session turned into a mass expression of exasperation.”

Negotiations between museum management and employees continued into Monday afternoon, with the museum remaining closed into the evening.

The extensive renovation project is to be funded through ticket sales, private contributions, government support, and revenues from the Louvre’s Abu Dhabi branch. Non-EU visitor ticket prices are expected to increase later this year.

However, museum employees stress that their immediate needs outweigh any promise of a decade-long renovation. Unlike other sites in Paris, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Centre Pompidou, both of which are undergoing significant state-supported restoration, the Louvre remains in a state of financial and operational limbo, neither adequately funded nor sufficiently supported.

President Macron, who celebrated his 2017 election victory at the Louvre and prominently featured it during the 2024 Paris Olympics, assures a modernized, safer museum within this decade. Until then, France’s premier cultural landmark and the crowds clamoring to visit remain trapped between ambitious plans and current realities.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas Named The Number One Summer Travel Destination In The US 

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Tripadvisor has officially released their 2025 Annual Summer Travel Index listing the top travel destinations for this summer in the US. America is filled with famous cities that thrive in the summer months and always see an uptick in travel and tourism from June to September. 

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Las Vegas is one of those destinations, and according to the index, it’s the top destination for domestic travelers this summer season. Known as the entertainment capital, Vegas is a popular vacation spot because it’s easy to get to, there’s a wide range of experiences for anyone to enjoy, and their hotels and resorts are top rated.

Within the past couple of years, Vegas gained a lot of popularity from the creation of the Sphere, a new $3 billion luxury mega-resort, and became a base for Formula 1. 

Vegas is known for its pool season as well. The hot summer temperatures often reach triple digits, making outdoor swimming spots very popular. There’s a wide array of club like environments, and more laid back resort atmospheres. 

For those who enjoy the nightlife scene and vibe, Alex Schechter for Travel and Leisure recommends checking out the Go Pool at Flamingo which will be opening soon. 

The venue is “expected guests 21-and-up entertained with daylong DJ sets, waterfalls, and frozen cocktails served at a swim-up bar built in the middle of the pool. Best of all, it’s free and open to non-guests.”

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The city also offers a multitude of outdoor-indoor hybrid spaces to escape from the summer heat. The Bellaggio is obviously one of the go-to destinations in Vegas, and the fountains are one of the biggest reasons why. 

“Voted the top Las Vegas attraction on Tripadvisor, the fountains soar nearly 500 feet in the air, with accompanying orchestral music and lights. (Pro-tip: for smaller crowds, go on a weeknight.),” Schechter wrote. 

The Fremont Street Experience is an outdoor mall covered with a pavilion that also doubles as an LED screen, allowing patrons to stay cool and enjoy unique graphics while they walk around. 

Speaking of shopping, the Grand Canal Shoppes are a staple for travelers to visit, as the indoor mall is designed to look like Venice, Italy. You can even go on a gondola ride while being serenaded. 

Vegas is known for having some of the best restaurants and eateries in the US as well. No matter where you go, you’re likely to have an entertaining and tantilizing experience. 

As summer quickly approaches, Las Vegas is gearing up for an incredible tourism season, as are many other cities throughout the US that are looking forward to showing off the beauty that their city has to offer.

plane

Trump’s Potential $400 Million Gift from Qatar Raises Questions of Ethics and National Security

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The Trump administration may accept a Boeing 747-8 jet from the Qatari royal family, potentially making it one of the most expensive gifts the U.S. government has ever received from a foreign nation. The luxury aircraft, currently just over a decade old, would be outfitted for temporary use as Air Force One and later handed off to President Trump’s presidential library, according to several American officials familiar with the discussions.

Although still under legal review, the proposal has already ignited controversy. Critics say the arrangement blurs the line between national interest and personal benefit, especially given Trump’s potential access to the plane post-presidency. “Even in a presidency defined by grift, this move is shocking,” Robert Weissman, co-president of the advocacy group Public Citizen, told The New York Times. “It makes clear that U.S. foreign policy under Donald Trump is up for sale.”

Trump attempted to reframe the gift as a patriotic cost-saving measure in a post on social media Sunday.

“So the fact that the Defense Department is getting a GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE, of a 747 aircraft to replace the 40-year-old Air Force One, temporarily, in a very public and transparent transaction, so bothers the Crooked Democrats that they insist we pay, TOP DOLLAR, for the plane. Anybody can do that! The Dems are World Class Losers!!!”

According to two senior officials, the jet, which is valued at roughly $400 million, would be retrofitted with military-grade communications and security systems by contractor L3Harris in Texas, pending final approval. If completed, the upgraded aircraft could be used by the end of the year.

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Yet multiple legal and logistical hurdles remain. The White House insists any gift accepted from a foreign government will be done “in full compliance with all applicable laws,” said press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Officials involved say the Reagan Library’s receipt of a retired Air Force One serves as precedent, though critics argue this case is notably different. Reagan never flew on the plane after leaving office—it was displayed in a museum.

Behind closed doors, even some Republicans are said to be uneasy about the optics and potential fallout of the plan, especially as Trump embarks on a trip to the Middle East that includes Qatar. His company recently announced plans for a new golf resort there, reportedly with a government-linked business partner.

“It’s hard to see it as a coincidence,” said Jordan Libowitz, spokesperson for government watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.

“Trump’s company just announced a new golf resort in Qatar, reportedly partnered with a company owned by the country’s government, and will soon be meeting with senior Qatari officials in a Middle East trip that also features meetings with heads of state of two other countries he has property developments in. At this point, it’s impossible to tell the difference between decisions being made by the White House for the good of the country and for the good of the Trump Organization.”

Ali Al-Ansari, a spokesman for Qatar’s government, said reports of the plane being offered during Trump’s upcoming Middle East visit were inaccurate.

“The possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense, but the matter remains under review by the respective legal departments, and no decision has been made.”

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During Trump’s first tenure, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics had sued him for alleged emoluments clause violations. The emoluments clause of the Constitution prohibits federal officials from accepting financial benefits from foreign governments without congressional approval.

Libowitz claims that because the president might keep using the plane after he leaves office, accepting it would bring up a number of moral questions that go well beyond whether it is against the Constitution.

Two people familiar with legal evaluations by the White House counsel’s office and Attorney General Pam Bondi (a former lobbyist for Qatar) said the arrangement could be legally structured to avoid emoluments clause violations—provided the aircraft is first accepted by the government and only later transferred to the Trump library.

Still, the move drew swift backlash. “The Constitution is perfectly clear: no present ‘of any kind whatever’ from a foreign state without Congressional permission,” wrote Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland on social media. Senator Adam Schiff of California was more blunt: “The corruption is brazen.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Defense clarified Sunday that no contract has yet been signed to retrofit the aircraft, and no legal transfer has occurred. “We’re talking years, not months,” said one DOD official, citing the complexity of transforming a commercial aircraft into a secure Air Force One.

Trump’s frustration with delays in Boeing’s official Air Force One replacements has likely fueled the urgency. Officials say Trump even enlisted Elon Musk to help speed up production, though suggested shortcuts, such as loosening security clearance requirements, were met with skepticism.

Trump previously toured the Qatari-owned jet while it was parked in Palm Beach, and internal discussions have swirled ever since. One source said early ideas involved Qatar donating the plane directly to Trump’s library for immediate use. But legal advisers nixed that approach, citing the Constitution’s prohibition against federal officials accepting foreign gifts without congressional approval.

everest

Nepal Proposes Everest Climbing Law Requiring Prior 7,000-Meter Ascent

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Nepal is preparing to implement new regulations aimed at reducing overcrowding and enhancing climber safety on Mount Everest by restricting climbing permits exclusively to climbers who have previously ascended at least one mountain of 7,000 meters or higher within Nepal.

The legislation, known as the Integrated Tourism Bill, was presented in Nepal’s upper house of Parliament on April 18. It specifically targets pressing ecological issues, safety concerns, and overcrowding on Mount Everest, which at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) remains the highest peak above sea level, confirmed by a 2020 joint survey between Nepal and China.

Nepal’s economy heavily relies on tourism income, especially mountaineering, trekking, and related activities. Revenue generated from climbing permits represents a substantial source of foreign exchange for the nation, which boasts eight of the world’s 14 tallest mountains.

However, this reliance has led to widespread criticism of the government’s permit issuance practices, particularly in allowing inexperienced climbers to attempt Everest, resulting in dangerous situations.

Recently, Nepal raised the price of Everest climbing permits by 36 percent, increasing from approximately £8,249 to £11,248. This was the first significant price adjustment in nearly a decade.

Despite the financial benefits, the environmental repercussions of increasing tourist traffic are severe. Everest faces mounting issues of pollution, including accumulated garbage, human waste, and broader ecological damage to the fragile alpine environment. Additionally, rescue operations at extreme altitudes are both exceptionally dangerous and costly.

Overcrowding in critical sections of Everest, particularly the notorious “death zone” where oxygen is insufficient for human survival, has created hazardous bottlenecks, significantly increasing risks for climbers.

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The new regulations aim to mitigate these problems by requiring prospective Everest climbers to submit documented proof of previously ascending a Nepal-based peak of at least 7,000 meters before applying for an Everest permit. This measure intends to ensure climbers have sufficient high-altitude experience, thus minimizing risks associated with inexperienced mountaineering.

Additionally, climbers must undergo a thorough medical examination by a government-approved medical institution within one month of the planned expedition. Applicants must also declare in advance any intentions to set or attempt records during their climbs.

The consequences for violating rules are set to increase in severity. Nepali climbers discovered to be in violation of regulations could face a decade-long ban from climbing, alongside fines equivalent to the cost of their climbing permits or a combination of both penalties. Foreigners could encounter identical penalties, along with a five-year prohibition on re-entering Nepal.

The proposed legislation also mandates that the primary guide, known locally as the Sardar, and accompanying mountain guides must be Nepali citizens. Furthermore, permit fees, once paid, cannot be transferred to another individual. In cases where expeditions are disrupted due to uncontrollable circumstances such as natural disasters or conflicts, permits will remain valid for a two-year period without refund.

International climbing companies have expressed significant concerns over the proposed restrictions, particularly regarding the exclusive requirement of prior ascents on Nepali peaks. Lukas Furtenbach, founder of the Austrian expedition organizer Furtenbach Adventures, argues that well-known international peaks should be recognized as qualifying climbs.

“That wouldn’t make any sense. And I would also add mountains that are close to 7,000 meters to that list and that are widely used as preparation, like Ama Dablam, Aconcagua, Denali and others.”

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Furtenbach also emphasized to Reuters the importance of allowing qualified international guides to operate on Everest due to a shortage of adequately qualified Nepali guides.

“It is important that mountain guides have a qualification like IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations), no matter what nationality they are. We do also welcome Nepali IFMGA guides to work in the Alps in Europe.”

The Kathmandu Post reports that the new bill also includes provisions for improved dead body management insurance. The process of recovering bodies from Everest presents significant financial and logistical challenges, with costs ranging from $20,000 to $200,000, reflecting the inherent risks involved.

Additionally, the proposed legislation aims to substitute the existing $4,000 refundable garbage deposit with a non-refundable garbage fee. The funds will go toward climber welfare and environmental conservation.

“What’s already outlined in the bill paints a clear picture: the government is trying to bring order, accountability, and safety to the mountains.”

Nepal’s 2025 Everest climbing season began in April, and the country has already issued approximately 402 permits. The total number of permits issued is expected to exceed 500 during the peak climbing window in May.

Still in draft form, the law has to go through deliberations in both houses of Parliament. Nepal’s Ministry of Tourism officials claim changes are likely before the final bill is approved.

Congestion Pricing

White House Pressures New York to End Congestion Pricing Plan or Face Funding Cuts

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The Trump administration escalated its conflict with New York City on Monday by threatening to withhold federal highway funding unless the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) halts its Manhattan congestion pricing program by May 21.

In a sharply worded letter addressed to Governor Kathy Hochul, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the Federal Highway Administration would suspend financial assistance and regulatory approvals for several federally backed road projects if the MTA did not comply with the deadline.

The dispute between federal transportation authorities and the MTA began in February when the administration withdrew its support for the congestion pricing plan, prompting the MTA to file a lawsuit.

In court filings, the MTA argued that the congestion tolls, which are anticipated to fund approximately $15 billion in transit improvements, were federally approved under the Value Pricing Program. This program explicitly allows local and state entities to levy tolls on federally subsidized roads to fund other initiatives. The fees are currently set at $9 for daytime entry into Manhattan below 60th Street.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Donald Trump pledged via social media to “TERMINATE” Manhattan’s congestion pricing tolls immediately upon assuming office, underscoring the administration’s ongoing opposition to the program. Trump’s skyscraper, Trump Tower, and other properties are within the congestion zone.

Secretary Duffy had initially set a March 20 deadline for the MTA to stop charging congestion fees before extending the deadline to April 21 when Gov. Hochul did not lift the tolls.

At the time, Janno Lieber, chairman and CEO of the MTA, said that the deadline would “come and go” with no changes to tolling and claimed that the Trump government lacked the legal power to reverse approvals given under previous President Joe Biden’s administration.

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“Nothing is going to change, and we are very confident that there won’t be a rollback of congestion pricing because the program stepped through every hoop on the way to getting that federal approval. It can’t be unilaterally rescinded.”

While the letter specifically mentioned withholding funds from Manhattan-based projects, Duffy indicated that sanctions could extend statewide if the MTA persists in ignoring federal directives.

Duffy contends that the absence of toll-free options for accessing the cordoned area of Manhattan is incompatible with previous Value Pricing Pilot Program implementations and leaves drivers with no other choice than to pay an expensive toll or utilize a poorly run transit system.

Duffy clarified that critical infrastructure projects deemed “essential for safety” would not be affected, and federal support for mass transit projects was not mentioned in the letter.

“President Trump and I will not sit back while Gov. Hochul engages in class warfare and prices working-class Americans out of accessing New York City. The federal government sends billions to New York—but we won’t foot the bill if Gov. Hochul continues to implement an illegal toll to backfill the budget of New York’s failing transit system. We are giving New York one last chance to turn back or prove their actions are not illegal.”

While Duffy acknowledged that the Value Pricing Program granted those funds to other projects, including transit projects, he argued, “It is unconscionable as a matter of policy that highway users are being forced to bail out the MTA transit system.”

“Your refusal to end cordon pricing and your open disrespect towards the federal government is unacceptable. Know that the billions of dollars the federal government sends to New York are not a blank check. Continued non-compliance will not be taken lightly.”

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Gov. Hochul immediately responded, declaring that the congestion pricing system is lawful and confirming that toll collection would continue unless legally mandated otherwise. A spokesperson for her office said, “The program is working. Traffic is down, business is up, and the cameras are staying on.”

“We’ve seen Secretary Duffy’s tweet, which doesn’t change what Governor Hochul has been saying all along.”

The cameras mentioned refer to the system of traffic cameras used to assess the tolls to drivers in the congestion zone.

Lisa Daglian, Executive Director of the Committee to the MTA, strongly criticized Duffy’s threat, accusing the administration of using financial leverage as an intimidation tactic.

“Wouldn’t it be not just counterintuitive but counterproductive to halt money that’s coming in, or that’s being dedicated to roadways within the congestion relief zone to support those very roads that people are driving on, just to be a bully?”

Daglian noted that federal funds typically support vital upgrades to key thoroughfares such as the FDR Drive and various bridge repairs.

Lieber responded to Duffy’s latest communication in a statement, saying, “The legal issues raised in the letter are already appropriately before a federal judge.”

According to the MTA, the data indicates the congestion pricing tolls effectively reduce Manhattan traffic gridlocks, increase bus speeds, and raise overall public transit ridership.

Court records suggest the lawsuit will take until fall to be fully settled, and a federal judge has so far agreed with New York, ruling that the toll is legitimate.

While similar toll programs have been implemented in cities such as London, Stockholm, Milan, and Singapore, the United States has yet to see such initiatives put into practice.

plane

America No Longer on the Itinerary: Global Travelers Rethink U.S. Trips Amid Rising Tensions

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International travelers are increasingly reconsidering trips to the United States amid growing concerns over feeling unsafe or unwelcome due to controversial policies and diplomatic tensions linked to the Trump administration. Issues such as border detentions, heightened trade conflicts, and strained relations with longstanding allies are causing many tourists to rethink their support for the U.S. economy.

A proposed new travel ban could restrict citizens from up to 43 countries, including Belarus, Cambodia, and St. Lucia, further complicating international relations and fueling traveler anxieties.

Mallory Henderson, a London-based marketing consultant who regularly visited the U.S. to see family, told The New York Times she canceled her upcoming trip to Boston, citing discomfort with the “unpredictable” environment.

“So many Americans are looking to escape the tense and toxic atmosphere at home. Why would anyone want to visit, especially right now, with all the arbitrary detentions at immigration? It’s a really hostile and scary time, and quite frankly, there’s plenty of other inviting and pleasant places I can go to meet up with my family.”

Even before recent political shifts, the American tourism sector was already struggling to rebound from the pandemic. The strong U.S. dollar and prolonged visa processing had delayed recovery, with international visitor numbers projected not to reach pre-pandemic levels until late 2025 and tourist spending not fully rebounding until 2026, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Tourism Economics, a research firm, initially predicted a 9 percent growth in travel to the U.S. this year but recently revised forecasts to reflect a 5.1 percent decline in inbound visitors.
This downturn is expected to result in an $18 billion reduction in visitor spending, significantly driven by Canadian travelers responding to newly imposed tariffs. In February, cross-border Canadian visits dropped by 24 percent year-over-year.

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Major airlines like Delta, American, and United have adjusted financial forecasts and reduced flights, especially to and from Canada, reflecting the diminished demand. United CEO Scott Kirby explicitly noted a substantial drop in Canadian passengers.

President of Tourism Economics, Adam Sacks, attributes this decline to perceptions caused by aggressive policy decisions.

“The negative sentiment shift is anticipated to be sustained by an evolving mix of Trump administration factors, including geopolitical friction on trade and national security policies, charged rhetoric and adversarial posturing. High-visibility border security and immigration policies and enforcement actions are also expected to discourage visits.”

Several nations, including the U.K., Canada, and Germany, have updated travel advisories cautioning citizens that visa waivers do not guarantee smooth entry into the U.S. following several highly publicized border detentions involving foreign nationals. For example, France recently protested after a French scientist was denied entry, allegedly due to his personal opinions about American politics discovered during a phone inspection—an assertion the U.S. denied.

While Europe has not seen cancellations at Canada’s scale, many travelers are reconsidering future trips to the United States. European Travel Agents’ Secretary General Eric Dresin warned that continued policy turbulence might lead to greater disruption in the European tourism market. In February, arrivals from Western Europe dipped by 1 percent compared to a 14 percent increase the previous year.

Tourists like Christoph Bartel, a German citizen who lives in Norway, are choosing alternate destinations after U.S. policy shifts. Bartel had initially planned to visit Arizona in the summer to tour national parks but canceled his plans when Trump fired park employees and reversed environmental regulations.

“It does not feel right to support the American economy when the president is causing so much sabotage. It is disappointing to abandon a special trip we planned for months, but we will go to Canada or Mexico instead.”

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British travelers, traditionally the largest European visitor group after Canada and Mexico, are also becoming cautious. Alan Wilson of Bon Voyage Travel & Tours noted a 5 percent drop in bookings for U.S. trips this year, driven partly by increased hotel costs and frustration with tipping culture.

“The British market absolutely hates the 20 percent tipping culture and how America always has its hand held out for the next gratuity. They would rather pay the money upfront.”

Small businesses reliant on tourism in popular destinations like New York and California feel the pinch. Luke Miller of Real New York Tours reported devastating cancellations, especially from Canadian visitors, with a bleak outlook for future bookings. If business doesn’t rebound, Miller fears layoffs will be inevitable. “I just had 20 busloads of seniors cancel their upcoming tours. That’s thousands of dollars of losses for my small business,” Mr. Miller said.

In response, state tourism agencies are stepping up marketing to reassure travelers. Visit California, the state’s tourism agency, slightly lowered its 2025 spending forecast, citing reduced international arrivals and recent wildfires.

“The good news is, thanks to California’s strong brand on the global stage, international visitors continue to show a strong affinity for the Golden State,” Caroline Beteta, the agency’s president, said in a statement.

New York City Tourism+ Conventions is emphasizing affordability and attractions beyond Manhattan, confident that the city will ultimately achieve its recovery goals despite present challenges.

“This is an excellent opportunity to highlight the other boroughs and parts of New York City outside of Manhattan that are just as vibrant and have amazing, award-winning culinary, arts and cultural experiences.”

Still, business owners like Miller remain concerned. “The reality is that we are being hit the hardest and might not survive,” he said.

spring break

FBI Issues Travel Warning as Spring Break Approaches: What You Need to Know

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As spring break approaches, the FBI has issued an alert urging travelers, including students and families, to exercise increased caution while vacationing overseas.

Spring break significantly benefits local economies worldwide, bolstering revenues for hotels, restaurants, bars, and other businesses while also increasing seasonal employment. However, amid the festivities, travelers must remain alert to potential safety threats, such as crime, political instability, and ongoing conflicts.

In a recent statement, Akil Davis, FBI Assistant Director in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Office, warned that travelers should be aware of the risks while traveling abroad.

“Whether it’s families looking to escape the final throes of winter or a college student seeking a brief respite from the rigors of academic life, know that the risks are there. Maintain vigilance throughout your travels and be prepared to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate should the need arise.”

The FBI’s warning follows the disappearance of University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki during her visit to Punta Cana, a popular resort destination in the Dominican Republic.

With the spring break period extending through March and April, airports and airlines anticipate higher traffic this year. According to CBS News, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicts approximately a 5% increase in passengers compared to last year’s travel season.

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The FBI recommends that travelers maintain a heightened awareness of their surroundings for personal safety. Specific tips include setting up emergency points of contact for families to reference, utilizing only officially authorized taxis or shuttles, and closely observing behaviors that appear suspicious or intrusive.

“Beware of new acquaintances who probe for information about you or who attempt to get you involved in what could become a compromising situation.”

Additionally, the agency advises travelers to steer clear of activities that are “illegal, improper, or discreet” and to avoid situations involving sexual solicitations, which could result in room raids, illicit photographs, or extortion attempts. Traveling in groups, particularly at night, rather than alone, is strongly recommended to mitigate potential dangers.

The FBI also highlights the importance of consulting travel advisories issued by the U.S. State Department before departure. These advisories, classified into four levels, provide updated safety assessments of countries and regions based on crime rates, terrorism threats, civil disturbances, health risks, and natural disaster likelihood.

Level 1 indicates normal precautions, with the understanding that all international travel carries some inherent degree of risk. Level 2 suggests extra caution due to “heightened risks to safety and security.” Level 3 recommends reconsidering travel plans, and Level 4 strongly discourages travel to the location altogether.

Recent advisories have placed countries like Afghanistan, Belarus, North Korea, Russia, and Ukraine under “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” underscoring the severity of conditions in those nations.

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Common international spring break destinations include Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Spain, and the Dominican Republic, each with varying safety ratings:

  • Mexico: Cancun (Quintana Roo) and Cabo San Lucas (Baja California Sur) are listed at Level 2 due to crime concerns. However, the advisory escalates to Level 3 for Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco) due to increased risks of kidnapping and crime.
  • Jamaica: Rated as Level 3, Jamaica faces widespread violent crime, including sexual assaults and armed robberies. Tourist areas generally experience lower crime rates but are not entirely exempt from serious incidents.
  • The Bahamas: Holds a Level 2 advisory, primarily due to crime concentrated in Nassau (New Providence) and Freeport (Grand Bahama). Violent crimes such as armed robberies and sexual assaults have been reported even in tourist zones.
  • Spain: Also at Level 2, Spain faces threats from civil unrest and terrorism. Demonstrations occur frequently, and officials caution travelers about potential terrorist activities targeting public places, including tourist attractions, transportation hubs, hotels, and cultural venues.
  • Dominican Republic: Classified at Level 2 due to ongoing issues with violent crime, including robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults. Tourist regions are now more secure due to enhanced policing and modernized emergency response systems.

An additional but frequently overlooked travel safety concern is carbon monoxide poisoning. Although not mentioned directly by the FBI, carbon monoxide poses a significant risk, causing over 400 fatalities annually in the United States alone, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recent incidents involving American tourists in Mexico and the Bahamas highlight the dangers of this invisible and odorless gas.

Experts recommend ensuring accommodations have functioning carbon monoxide detectors or bringing along portable detection devices. Immediate evacuation and seeking fresh air are crucial if alarms sound. Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, chest discomfort, and confusion, though not everyone experiences clear symptoms immediately.