Vacation love stories that started and ended in Paris or London, aviation misadventures in Thailand and China, and a look at why costs rise as tourist numbers rise.
As tourist destinations grapple with overcrowding, many are adopting visitor caps and entry fees, not only to manage crowds but also to bolster revenue.
Mount Fuji’s Climbing Fee:
Japan’s renowned Mount Fuji now imposes a $13 charge for climbers, aiming to alleviate congestion. This follows Japan’s recent 70% price hike for tourist rail passes.
Despite this, the favorable exchange rate makes it an opportune time for international travelers to embark on this iconic journey.
Entry Fee for Plaza de España:
Seville, Spain, plans to introduce an entry fee for its Plaza de España square, renowned for its intricate design and popularity among tourists. Similarly, the Louvre in Paris has raised ticket prices by nearly a third, ahead of the Paris Olympics.
Price Hike at Walt Disney World:
Even in the United States, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida has announced increased park ticket prices for the upcoming year. Single-day, single-park ticket prices have risen by $10 for 2025, reflecting a broader trend of higher fees in tourist destinations worldwide.
Love Stories from London and Paris
Romantic Encounter in Trafalgar Square:
In 1984, an Italian teenager’s chance encounter with an American boy reading “Romeo and Juliet” in Trafalgar Square led to a serendipitous love story, defying the odds of a missed connection.
Heartbreak and Redemption in Paris:
In 2011, a Londoner’s first trip to Paris ended in heartbreak under the Eiffel Tower. A decade later, she returned, symbolizing a journey of healing and empowerment, ready to script her own narrative.