White Lotus Buzz Can't Reverse Thailand's Tourism Decline

Thailand's tourism outlook in such doldrums that even the so-called The White Lotus effect — a temporary boost in Western visitors inspired by the latest Koh Samui—set season of HBO 's hit show — hasn't been enough to offset a slump in arrivals from neighboring countries.
Foreign arrivals to Thailand dropped for the fourth straight month in May, slipping 14% to 2.6 million, government data show. That's the country's longest streak of declines since 2021, when the Covid pandemic closed international borders.

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Travel + Leisure

30 minutes ago

• Travel + Leisure

The Best Airplane Outfits for Summer Travel—15 Stylish, Lightweight Picks That Start at $15

Let's all take a moment to appreciate that we've made it past the era of bulky winter layers on airplanes—at least for the next few months. Dressing for a summer flight is infinitely easier. Think loose, flowy silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and a light sweater you can fold into the corner of your tote when the cabin gets chilly. No coats. No fleece-lined panic sweats mid-flight. Amazon has some of the season's comfiest airplane outfits, from breezy maxi dresses and matching sets to linen pants, oversized button-downs, and more. We scrolled through pages of options to find the best—and here's what summer pieces we're most excited to wear to the airport and beyond. No need to worry about overheating in these palazzo pants—reviewers say the 70-percent cotton blend keeps them breathable, even on long travel days. The wide-leg silhouette tapers above the ankle with a tulip hem for an extra-stylish touch. 'These pants should be a staple in everyone's comfort wardrobe,' one shopper wrote, calling them 'perfect for travel that still allows you to be stylish.' Available in 14 colors and currently up to 25 percent off. The best travel outfit delivers pajama-level comfort—without looking like actual pajamas. This slouchy short-sleeve tee and matching wide-leg pants set nails it. Amazon shoppers are 'obsessed' with the relaxed fit, 'silky-soft' fabric, and 'impeccable' quality. Side slits let the oversized top drape effortlessly over the bottoms, while roomy thigh pockets keep essentials like your passport and cards within easy reach. A versatile white button-down is a staple in any capsule travel wardrobe—and this one from Hotouch is especially great for summer. It's made of 100 percent cotton but has the breezy, elevated look of linen, according to reviewers. Once you land, you can dress it up with slacks for dinner or throw it over a swimsuit at the beach. One traveler who wore it through humid Bangkok and mountain hikes in Thailand even called it 'the single best shirt [they've] ever purchased.' A little contrast detailing goes a long way in making this buttery soft set feel elevated. Shoppers rave about how luxe it looks and feels—one even said it's 'like you are putting on St. John or Chanel,' dubbing it a perfect example of 'quiet luxury' with a fabric that mimics wool crepe (though it's actually synthetic). The Tanming short-sleeve sweater set looks far more expensive than it is—especially now that it's on sale for just $32. Jumpsuits can be a polarizing travel pick—but if you're willing to overlook the in-flight bathroom logistics, the payoff is real. The Dokotoo wide-leg jumpsuit is a prime example: all-day comfort, zero outfit planning required. It's currently marked down from $50 to $32 and features a smocked bodice that moves with you as you settle into your seat. 'I wore this on a plane so I would look nice when I got to my destination,' one reviewer shared. Mission accomplished—they felt comfortable the entire flight and while navigating the airport. Linen-cotton pants for under $20? Practically unheard of—but Amazon Essentials delivers. These lightweight, relaxed-fit bottoms have earned thousands of glowing reviews for their comfort and versatility, especially thanks to the flight-friendly elastic waistband. 'I love these pants so much I'm bringing them as my only pants to London in August—and wearing them on the long-haul flight,' one shopper wrote. 'I've worn them sitting all day for work, so I know they'll be perfect on the plane.' This short-sleeve knit cardigan is your stylish solution for staying warm on the plane. The ribbed texture, delicate buttons, boxy fit, and baggy half sleeves give it that 'something spendy' feel, as one reviewer put it. Available in four neutral shades, it pairs effortlessly with everything from flowy dresses to wide-leg pants. Just roll it up and tuck it into your personal item—it's the kind of light layer you'll reach for again and again. Cropped wide-leg pants and a boxy tank top make the perfect summer set. The 30-percent linen two-piece is breathable, comfortable, and resists wrinkling—ideal for flights and airport days. Its loose fit allows for easy movement, while the fabric keeps you cool in warmer climates. Available in 25 colors, it's versatile enough to dress up or down on your trip. Right now, it's on sale for $40, making it a great travel wardrobe staple. Here's a cotton dress that resists wrinkles thanks to its poplin fabric—a tight weave that boosts durability and prevents creasing. The Drop's Ilana maxi dress is a timeless staple with a relaxed fit, ruffled hem, and keyhole button closure. Perfect for long travel days, it pairs effortlessly with sneakers, comfy flats, or sandals. Lightweight and breathable, it's great for layering or wearing solo in warmer weather. Usually priced over $50, it's currently on sale for just $30. Head straight from the airport to your first summer destination in this $36 shorts set. Travelers rave that it keeps them cool and comfortable in hot spots like Arizona, Las Vegas, and Mexico. One called it 'perfect for summer months or vacation mode.' The loose shorts pair perfectly with the oversized three-quarter-sleeve button-down (with handy pockets!). Available in neutrals, hot pink, bright orange, and other vibrant summer shades. Here's a versatile maxi dress perfect for travel—wrinkle-resistant, packable, and cozy enough for naps. New on Amazon since December, it's already winning rave reviews from summer travelers. Made of cotton and just a bit of elastane, it offers just enough stretch to keep you comfy whether you're lounging on the plane or exploring your destination. One Amazon shopper called this their 'number one travel set for flights.' They love the buttery-soft pants and crewneck tank, praising how well it washes and how wrinkle-resistant it is. Another five-star reviewer bought two sets, saying they're perfect for overnight flights and even cruises. With over 100 recommendations for travel, this comfy ensemble is now available at 23 percent off for your summer getaway. A striped tee is a timeless classic that belongs in every wardrobe. For those who prefer a simple shirt-and-jeans look, it pairs perfectly with comfy pants for an airport outfit that feels both relaxed and put-together. At just $15, it's a steal. Released on Amazon in December, it has only 17 ratings so far—but the feedback is impressive. One reviewer said they didn't expect to like it as much as they do, praising the cotton and elastane blend as the perfect summer fabric. Not a fan of pants on a plane? Totally understandable. As long as your outfit offers enough coverage when moving through the terminal, bending down for luggage, and sitting in a tight airplane seat, a skirt can be a great airport choice. Embrace that feeling of freedom with a long, flowy floral maxi skirt—a perfect, effortless match for a casual t-shirt. This new tracksuit is already 15% off and includes wide-leg sweats plus a sleeveless mock-neck top. Available in several colors, some with bold sporty side stripes, it's perfect for travel. One reviewer called it a 'great travel outfit, especially if you don't have time to change after the plane—you can head straight to your plans.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Yahoo

3 hours ago

• Yahoo

Canada issues new warnings ahead of summer travel season

The 2025 summer travel season arrives under closer scrutiny than in previous years. Global Affairs Canada has updated a long list of advisories shaped by war, crime and environmental disruption. Countries in the Middle East are under strict warnings to limit or avoid travel, and South American destinations popular with Canadian visitors have been flagged for instability. Even the United States has entered more uncertain territory, though it is still carrying a green 'take normal safety precautions' rating. A national poll in May found a majority of Canadians no longer felt welcome south of the border, and more than half believed travel to the country was no longer safe. On June 7, Canada updated its advisory for the U.S. to reflect large-scale demonstrations in Los Angeles. Domestic travel is seeing a rebound, driven by rising caution abroad and a new dose of civic pride at home. Ottawa expects record hotel bookings ahead of Canada Day, with tourism officials crediting a drop in U.S. trips and growing appetite for homegrown destinations. Skyscanner data shows flight searches from Ottawa to Edmonton have risen 95 per cent since the start of the year, followed by Calgary and Winnipeg. Round-trip flights beginning and ending in Ottawa increased by 49 per cent, reflecting interest in regional tours or multi-leg vacations within Canada. The federal government is actively trying to keep travelers inside Canada's borders. Between June 20 and September 2, a Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to national parks, museums, galleries and VIA Rail trips. 'Canadians can enjoy free or discounted admission as they make Canada their travel destination this summer,' the program states, describing it as a way to 'celebrate what unites us … our shared experiences, natural wonders and cultural richness.' The view inside Canada may be bright, but international travel can be fraught with warnings. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Canada updated its travel advisory for Mexico on June 19 in response to two serious safety risks. Hurricane Erick made landfall on the western coast of Oaxaca, bringing violent winds and heavy rainfall across southern Mexico. Authorities have warned of flash flooding, landslides and severe disruptions to essential services, including transportation, power, food and water supply, telecommunications, emergency response and medical care. In Sinaloa, escalating violence has led to clashes between rival armed groups near Culiacán and Mazatlán. Armed individuals have blocked major highways and attacked vehicles, prompting warnings about road safety and security conditions in the region. This satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Erick making landfall in Mexico early Thursday. What to do: Avoid non-essential travel to the stretch of coast between Bahías de Huatulco and Acapulco, where Hurricane Erick has caused widespread disruption. Those already in southern Mexico should monitor local news and weather reports, prepare for possible outages and follow all instructions from emergency officials. In Sinaloa, travellers near Culiacán or Mazatlán should limit movement, stay off major highways and take extra precautions due to armed violence and security threats in the area. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Widespread shortages of food, bottled water, medication, fuel and even tap water have affected daily life in Cuba, leading to travel disruptions and stranding some tourists. Long waits at gas stations have triggered occasional conflict, and service interruptions have been reported at some resorts due to limited water or fuel access. As of July 1, 2025, all travelers will be required to present electronic visas upon arrival. Anyone entering Cuba via a third country must obtain this visa in advance. What to do: Travelers should arrive prepared, especially when visiting areas outside the main resort zones. Bringing supplies like toiletries, prescription medication and a basic emergency kit is advised. While resort areas like Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Playa Santa Lucia are considered lower-risk, fuel and water shortages may still affect transit and services. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Sporadic demonstrations continue in Bangkok and other cities, while legal provisions give authorities broad powers to restrict movement, impose curfews, censor media and control public gatherings. Emergency measures may be enacted without warning. In the country's deep south, violent attacks by separatist insurgents have led to a blanket advisory to avoid all travel to the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala. Martial law is in place across much of that region. Additional security risks exist along the borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, where occasional clashes, criminal activity and border closures have been reported. What to do: Avoid all travel to the southernmost provinces of Thailand due to the risk of violence. In other parts of the country, including Bangkok, remain alert to the potential for demonstrations or sudden security crackdowns. If visiting areas near the borders with Myanmar or Cambodia, stay informed about local developments, carry required documentation and only cross at designated points. Be prepared for delays or closures, and exercise increased caution in any region where military presence has been stepped up. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Hostilities between Israel and Iran have created serious security risks across the Middle East. Although Qatar remains relatively stable, regional tensions have led to reports of falling military debris in various locations and the potential for sudden flight disruptions, airspace restrictions, or border closures. The risk of escalation across neighbouring states is high, and Canada has warned it cannot guarantee the safety of Canadians abroad. What to do: Travelers in Qatar should monitor local and international media and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including shelter-in-place directives. Ensure all travel documents are current in case departure becomes necessary. Note: Canadians in nearby high-risk regions such as Iran, Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank are advised to stay close to bomb shelters or hardened structures and to follow civil defence warnings. Those wishing to leave are advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates on evacuation options. Take normal safety precautions with regional advisories; Why: As of June 12, a state of emergency was in place in Bocas del Toro Province following weeks of protests, while nationwide demonstrations since late April had caused recurring travel disruptions, including roadblocks and halted public transport. High levels of crime are reported in parts of Colón Province, San Miguelito and several Panama City districts. Travelers were also warned to avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the area south of Metetí in Darién Province due to violent crime, drug trafficking and human smuggling. What to do: Travelers should check routes in advance and be prepared for delays or closures due to protests. In affected areas, it is essential to carry a valid ID and to follow instructions from local authorities. In urban areas with high crime rates, maintain a high level of awareness, especially after dark. Demonstrations may occur without warning in additional regions. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: High levels of crime, social unrest and the risk of strikes and demonstrations can disrupt travel. A state of emergency in Callao Province and parts of Lima includes districts like San Juan de Lurigancho, Villa el Salvador and Comas. Enhanced security measures are in place, including ID checks and restrictions on motorcycle passengers. In several regions, including parts of Ayacucho, Huánuco, and Junín, criminal activity linked to drug trafficking and domestic terrorism has prompted a separate advisory against non-essential travel. What to do: In Lima and Callao, individuals should carry valid identification at all times and follow local laws, including restrictions tied to the current state of emergency. Travel plans should account for potential delays or closures due to protests or blockades. Travelers should avoid all non-essential travel to the regions flagged for organized crime and guerrilla activity, including the VRAEM corridor and border areas near Colombia and Ecuador. It is recommended to monitor local news closely and to remain alert in both urban and rural areas. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: As of May 2025, tensions between India and Pakistan were high following cross-border airstrikes, though a ceasefire had since been announced. Areas within 10 kilometres of the Pakistan border remain under a strict 'avoid all travel' advisory due to the risk of landmines and unexploded ordnance. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is also flagged for all travel avoidance due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Anti-Canada sentiment in some regions has sparked protests, and consular services are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. What to do: Non-essential travel should be avoided in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur due to insurgent activity. Canadians currently in India should exercise caution in public, avoid crowded places and protests and limit interactions with strangers, particularly in Delhi and surrounding areas. Those needing consular assistance should contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Authorities are maintaining heightened security measures in Germany due to concerns about terrorism, organized crime and irregular migration. Temporary border controls have been reinstated at all land-entry points and were expected to remain in place until at least Sept. 15, 2025. What to do: Those entering Germany from within the Schengen area should be prepared to show valid travel documents at border crossings. It is recommended to carry identification at all times. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Crime remains the main safety concern in Costa Rica, particularly in areas popular with tourists. Theft of passports and valuables is frequent, especially during high season. Pickpockets often work in teams, focusing on travelers in restaurants, bus terminals, hotel lobbies and national parks. Distraction techniques are common. Certain areas of San José, the Pacific coast, including Jacó and Manuel Antonio, and parts of the Caribbean coast, like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita see higher rates of reported incidents. What to do: Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be cautious when withdrawing money or using public transit. Keep your passport on you, along with the Costa Rican entry stamp, but secure it when possible. Minimize signs of wealth, and don't carry more cash or valuables than necessary. Stay alert in crowds and in known hotspots and report any thefts immediately to local authorities. Take normal safety precautions; Why: Demonstrations in Los Angeles and other major cities have prompted an increased security presence and the possibility of sudden curfew orders. Local authorities may restrict movement with little notice, and gun violence can be a concern. The high rate of firearm possession and the legal right to carry weapons in many states contribute to the risk of being caught in a mass shooting, even if tourists are not typically targeted. What to do: At the border, be prepared for detailed screening by U.S. authorities. Entry is never guaranteed — even for travelers with valid documents — and border agents have wide discretion, including the authority to search devices and to detain individuals who are denied entry. Remain co-operative and ensure your documents are in order before travel. smisenheimer@ Our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark our homepage and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed. Canada Day tourism season looks strong as bookings climb in Ottawa Committee OK's airport-area housing project despite noise concerns

Associated Press

5 hours ago

• Associated Press

Surging travel in Europe spikes concerns over tourism's drawbacks

MADRID (AP) — Suitcases rattle against cobblestones. Selfie-snappers jostle for the same shot. Ice cream shops are everywhere. Europe has been called the world's museum, but its record numbers of visitors have also made it ground zero for concerns about overtourism. Last year, 747 million international travelers visited the continent, far outnumbering any other region in the world, according to the U.N.'s World Tourism Barometer. Southern and Western Europe welcomed more than 70% of them. As the growing tide of travelers strains housing, water and the most Instagrammable hotspots in the region, protests and measures to lessen the effects of overtourism have proliferated. Here's a look at the issue in some of Europe's most visited destinations. What's causing overtourism Among factors driving the record numbers are cheap flights, social media, the ease of travel planning using artificial intelligence and what U.N. tourism officials call a strong economic outlook for many rich countries that send tourists despite some geopolitical and economic tensions. Citizens of countries like the U.S., Japan, China and the U.K. generate the most international trips, especially to popular destinations, such as Barcelona in Spain and Venice in Italy. They swarm these places seasonally, creating uneven demand for housing and resources such as water. Despite popular backlash against the crowds, some tourism officials believe they can be managed with the right infrastructure in place. Italy's Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè said she thinks tourism flows at crowded sites such Florence's Uffizi Galleries that house some of the world's most famous artworks could be better managed with AI, with tourists able to buy their tickets when they book their travel, even months in advance, to prevent surges. She pushed back against the idea that Italy — which like all of its Southern European neighbors, welcomed more international visitors in 2024 than its entire population — has a problem with too many tourists, adding that most visits are within just 4% of the country's territory. 'It's a phenomenon that can absolutely be managed,' Santanchè told The Associated Press in an interview in her office on Friday. 'Tourism must be an opportunity, not a threat — even for local communities. That's why we are focusing on organizing flows.' Where overtourism is most intenseCountries on the Mediterranean are at the forefront. Olympics-host France, the biggest international destination, last year received 100 million international visitors, while second-place Spain received almost 94 million — nearly double its own population. Protests have erupted across Spain over the past two years. In Barcelona, the water gun has become a symbol of the city's anti-tourism movement after marching protests have spritzed unsuspecting tourists while carrying signs saying: 'One more tourist, one less resident!' The pressure on infrastructure has been particularly acute on Spain's Canary and Balearic Islands, which have a combined population of less than 5 million people. Each archipelago saw upwards of 15 million visitors last year. Elsewhere in Europe, tourism overcrowding has vexed Italy's most popular sites including Venice, Rome, Capri and Verona, where Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet' was set. On the popular Amalfi Coast, ride-hailing app Uber offers private helicopter and boat rides in the summer to beat the crowds. Greece, which saw nearly four times as many tourists as its own population last year, has struggled with the strain on water, housing and energy in the summer months, especially on popular islands such as Santorini, Mykonos and others. The impact of overtourism In Spain, anti-tourism activists, academics, and the government say that overtourism is driving up housing costs in city centers and other popular locations due to the proliferation of short-term rentals that cater to visitors. Others bemoan changes to the very character of city neighborhoods that drew tourists in the first place. In Barcelona and elsewhere, activists and academics have said that neighborhoods popular with tourists have seen local shops replaced with souvenir vendors, international chains and trendy eateries. On some of Greece's most-visited islands, tourism has overlapped with water scarcity as drought grips the Mediterranean country of 10.4 million. In France, the Louvre, the world's most-visited museum, shut down this week when its staff went on strike warning that the facility was crumbling beneath the weight of overtourism, stranding thousands of ticketed visitors lined up under the baking sun. Angelos Varvarousis, a Barcelona- and Athens-based academic and urban planner who studies the industry, said overtourism risks imposing a 'monoculture' on many of Europe's hotspots. 'It is combined with the gradual loss and displacement of other social and economic activities,' Varvarousis said. What authorities are doing to cope Spain's government wants to tackle what officials call the country's biggest governance challenge: its housing crunch. Last month, Spain's government ordered Airbnb to take down almost 66,000 properties it said had violated local rules — while Barcelona announced a plan last year to phase out all of the 10,000 apartments licensed in the city as short-term rentals by 2028. Officials said the measure was to safeguard the housing supply for full-time residents. Elsewhere, authorities have tried to regulate tourist flows by cracking down on overnight stays or imposing fees for those visiting via cruises. In Greece, starting July 1, a cruise tax will be levied on island visitors at 20 euros ($23) for popular destinations like Mykonos and 5 euros ($5.70) for less-visited islands like Samos. The government has also encouraged visitors to seek quieter locations. To alleviate water problems, water tankers from mainland Greece have helped parched islands, and the islands have also used desalination technology, which separates salts from ocean water to make it drinkable, to boost their drinking water. Other measures have included staggered visiting hours at the Acropolis. Meanwhile, Venice brought back an entry fee this year that was piloted last year on day-trippers who will have to pay between 5 and 10 euros (roughly $6 to $12) to enter the city during the peak season. ___ AP journalists Laurie Kellman in London, Derek Gatopoulos in Athens and David Biller in Rome contributed.