Millions of travelers could skip visiting the US if proposed social media policy is implemented, industry experts warn

A proposed rule requiring social media history from some
travelers to the US could have a "chilling" effect on the number
 of international residents
who come for work or pleasure, industry officials warn. -
Mark Felix/Bloomberg/Getty Images/File

Ahead of a proposed rule change that would require social media account information from some foreign travelers to the United States, international travel experts are saying the policy could further deter visitors from coming to the US — a decline that could translate into billions of dollars in lost revenue for the travel sector.

The warning — from the World Travel & Tourism Council — comes after the global industry group surveyed nearly 5,000 international residents who regularly travel abroad and found one-third of respondents would be somewhat or much less likely to visit the US if applicants to the Visa Waiver Program are required to submit information about their social media accounts.

The potential decline in travelers could cost the US an estimated $15.7 billion in lost visitor spending, according to WTTC. Under one scenario, the US could miss out on as many as 4.7 million international arrivals, which would represent a 23% drop in visitors from ESTA countries in 2026.

By Jeanne Bonner

Full story at Yahoo News

One of Two Suspended Lakes in the World Lies in Nigeria - Find Out Here

Nigeria is home to one of only two suspended lakes in the world; a rare natural wonder shrouded in myths, history, and breathtaking beauty.

When people think of world-class natural wonders, they often picture Mount Everest or maybe the Great Barrier Reef. But there are many more such wonders, like the only two suspended lakes in the world. Hanging Lake in Colorado, USA, is man-made, whereas the Iyake Suspended Lake (Ado-Awaye Lake) in Oyo State, Nigeria, is the only naturally suspended lake in the world.

Located in the ancient town of Ado-Awaye, in Oyo State, this breathtaking nature’s gift rests at the peak of Ado Hill (Oke Ado), peacefully nestled on rocks hundreds of metres above sea level. What makes it a true wonder is not just its beauty, but the fact that, despite its location and Nigeria’s heavy rainfall, Iyake Lake never spills over or dries up.

By Adeola Olatunji

Full story at Pulse NG

Beyond the Big Five: unveiling South Africa's enchanting off-the-beaten-path destinations

South Africa is famous for the "Big Five", beaches and mountains, but the true spirit of the country often hides where the tar roads end and the silence begins.

For those looking to trade crowded viewpoints for untamed beauty, these destinations offer a glimpse into the quiet, authentic heart of the rainbow nation.

Drakensberg Amphitheatre, KwaZulu-Natal

The Amphitheatre is one of the most photographed geographical features on the continent, a literal wall of rock five kilometres long. Yet, while Giant’s Castle attracts the masses, the Northern Berg offers a more rugged, solitary connection to the mountains.

Full story at IOL

By Alyssia Birjalal

UK travel regulation reforms to gather pace in 2026

As the travel sector enters 2026, major policy and regulatory changes are anticipated to have a significant impact on travel businesses, tour operators and hotel providers.

Industry stakeholders are closely monitoring developments affecting travel policy and regulation, including revisions to consumer protections, border entry requirements and compliance expectations.

The UK’s travel and tourism landscape is adjusting to a wave of reforms designed to update outdated rules and address emerging operational challenges.

By Mohamed Dabo
Full story at Yahoo News

United States Issues New 'Do Not Travel' Warning

The United States Department of State has an expansive and extensive database of travel advisories covering hundreds of countries across the globe. These advisories provide crucial information to travelers, giving them all the information they need to ensure their safety while abroad.

Sometimes, these advisories warn against traveling to a particular country completely, and that was the case this week when the United States issued an updated “do not travel” warning to one African country following a coordinated attack from a terrorist extremist group.

United States Travel Advisories 

The United States categorizes its travel advisories into four distinct levels, spanning from the less serious Level 1 to the most severe Level 4 warnings.

By Kevin Harrish

Full story at Yahoo News

Exploring Nigeria: A guide for first-time travelers

Explore Nigeria, the "Giant of Africa," and learn about where to go, what to do and how to get there with Delta.

Nigeria, often called the “Giant of Africa,” is a treasure trove of culture, history and natural beauty. With Delta offering direct flights from Atlanta and New York to Lagos, all visitors can easily embark on an adventure that combines bustling urban energy with serene landscapes and deep cultural experiences. This guide provides practical tips and must-see highlights to ensure an enriching first-time visit.

By Staff Writer.

Full story at Delta

American influencer, IShowSpeed, shares 'another' Africa on tour

IShowSpeed, a 21-year-old African American influencer, has raced a cheetah, leapt with Maasai warriors and drawn huge crowds in a month-long tour of Africa that has also busted cliches about the continent.

The YouTube and Twitch star's tour, which started on December 29, took him to 20 countries, showing his tens of millions of followers a different side of Africa as he visited a diamond mine in Botswana, discovered Ethiopia's rich cuisine and attended the Africa Cup of Nations football final in Morocco.

IShowSpeed -- born in Cincinnati, Ohio as Darren Jason Watkins Jr. -- is one of the most-followed influencers on the planet.

By AFP

Full story at IOL