June 2025 Travel News

June 2025 Travel News

In the Skies

Big shakeups in the airline world this month:

• Silver Airways has shut down abruptly after filing for bankruptcy earlier this year. Known for its quirky pink prop planes in the Caribbean, it’s a nostalgic loss for travelers chasing off-the-beaten-path routes. https://www.travelandleisure.com/silver-airways-abrupt-shutdown-11753079

• Skytrax’s Top 10 Airlines of 2025 has dropped, offering fresh inspiration for your next international trip. Think long-haul luxury and exceptional service — with Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific claiming the top three spots. https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/17/travel/worlds-best-airline-2025-skytrax

• Play Airlines, the Icelandic budget option many used for transatlantic deals, will stop flying to the U.S. by October. If you’ve been eyeing a budget-friendly Iceland or Europe trip, now’s the time. https://thepointsguy.com/news/play-airlines-ends-all-us-flights/

• The EU has stepped in to require free carry-on bags for all flights. This move could upend the ultra low-cost model in Europe and finally bring transparency to those “too good to be true” fares. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250627-the-big-change-affecting-european-travel

Cruise Updates

• Cannes, France is drawing a line: starting in 2026, no cruise ships with more than 1,000 passengers. The port will also cap daily visitors to 6,000 — a potential game-changer for anyone craving more authentic, less crowded shore days. https://cruiseradio.net/french-riviera-port-cracks-down-on-large-cruise-ships/

• Carnival is overhauling its loyalty program in 2026. Instead of rewarding how many days you sail, they’ll focus on how much you spend. Also new: loyalty status will expire after 2 years. Expect ripple effects across the industry. https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-cruise-lines-loyalty-program-changes/

U.S. Travel News

• Hurricane season is expected to be active this year, with NOAA forecasting 19 named storms. If you're planning a coastal trip between June and November, it’s worth keeping an eye on forecasts and having travel insurance. https://www.travelandleisure.com/noaa-warning-above-normal-hurricane-season-in-2025-11748873

• Disney is tightening restrictions on third-party Disney Vacation Club rentals. Going forward, only friends and family can use DVC points — a major shift if you’ve relied on rentals for affordable Disney stays. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/06/29/disney-vacation-club-changes-commercial-renters/84372282007/ 

• Epcot’s Test Track returns July 22 with a high-tech facelift. Same track layout, new experience — ideal for anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney World later this year. https://www.positivelyosceola.com/test-track-returns-to-epcot-july-22-with-high-tech-makeover-and-all-new-musical-score/ 

• New York Port Authority is offering half-off AirTrain fares during major construction at JFK Airport— a rare win for NYC travelers. https://www.frommers.com/tips/car-bus-rail/jfk-airtrain-half-off-in-nyc-summer-2025/ 

• In Las Vegas, some hotels are dropping those notorious resort fees amid a tourism dip. It’s the perfect time to find real value without hidden charges. https://www.frommers.com/tips/hotel-news/-las-vegas-strip-hotel-without-resort-fees/ 

• Amtrak expands! A new Mardi Gras line will connect Mobile, AL to New Orleans — a scenic and relaxed way to get to the party. https://www.wctv.tv/2025/07/02/amtrak-line-opens-between-mobile-new-orleans/?outputType=amp 

Global Travel Intel

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