Travel trends are shifting across the globe this week, marked by unexpected surges in tourism to remote locations and evolving cultural habits. In the Italian Dolomites, a quiet rifugio in the Val di Fassa valley has become an unlikely epicenter for food tourism. Influenced by social media and food bloggers, visitors are flocking to the remote alpine hut specifically to sample the krapfen, or bombolone—a traditional, hole-less filled pastry. This sudden influx of pastry-seeking travelers has caused significant disruption for the local residents who typically frequent the peaceful mountain refuge.
In South Korea, a unique cultural milestone has been reached on Jeju Island. Kylie Genter has become the first foreigner to earn a license as a haenyeo, the island’s traditional community of female free-divers who harvest seafood without breathing apparatus. Living in the coastal village of Youngrak-ri, Genter has integrated into the tight-knit group that shares meals, bathing, and safety responsibilities. Reflecting on her achievement, Genter told reporters, “As a foreigner doing this, especially as a person who is not a Korean citizen, it’s a big responsibility.”
Stateside, the travel landscape is navigating political and economic shifts. Following a trade dispute with Canada, an executive order from President Trump has renamed Lake Ontario to Lake America, sparking concerns that Canadian tourists may avoid the U.S. This follows a trend seen last year in a Florida region dubbed “Little Quebec,” which experienced a sharp decline in tourism due to ongoing tariffs and diplomatic friction between the two nations.
Meanwhile, the countdown for America’s Best Towns to Visit in 2026 continues, with New Haven, Connecticut, securing the No. 2 spot. Known for its colonial grid and the global influence of Yale University, the city is celebrated as a cultural hub for art lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Beyond its historic architecture and free access to world-class art, the city has gained fame for its distinct pizza scene. As the list progresses, New Haven joins other notable destinations including Roanoke, Virginia (No. 10); Lawrence, Kansas (No. 9); Iowa City, Iowa (No. 8); Juneau, Alaska (No. 7); Burlington, Vermont (No. 6); Fort Collins, Colorado (No. 5); Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (No. 4); and Greenville, South Carolina (No. 3).
Broader lifestyle shifts are also reshaping travel and leisure. In the United Kingdom, younger generations are increasingly moving away from the traditional pub culture, opting instead for fitness-oriented activities like running after work. Elsewhere, a celebrity chef in Bangkok is challenging modern dining habits by implementing a strict “food first, not phones” policy, encouraging patrons to disconnect from screens during their meals.
In other notable reports, a dedicated searcher known as the “Beast Runner” continues to track missing hikers in Taiwan’s rugged mountains, often pursuing leads long after official efforts have concluded. As the week draws to a close, travelers and observers are reflecting on a diverse array of global events, from public health concerns like a measles surge to the impacts of tragic flooding and the loss of cultural legends. The report also notes that a college town serves up serious pizza, plus younger Brits are shunning the traditional night at the pub, this week in travel news: A frenzy erupts over Italian pastries. The report also notes that known for its sumptuous cuisine and delicious desserts, Italy has tourists lining up for gelato all over the peninsula. The report also notes that but what about an Italian treat that’s sometimes overlooked – the pastry. The report also notes that well, some travelers have put one particular doughy delight at the center of their itineraries, much to the chagrin of unassuming locals. The report also notes that can you imagine diving into the sea without breathing gear to catch fresh seafood. The report also notes that most villages have their own groups of haenyeo. The report also notes that dive, bathe and relax together — while also keeping each other safe, and their bond is strong: They eat.