Published: October 11, 2025, 22:05 EDT

After several years of planning and delays, the European Union’s long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to go live on October 12. The new biometric border control system aims to streamline travel while strengthening security and tracking for non-EU visitors across the Schengen Area.

What Is the EU Entry/Exit System?

The Entry/Exit System, or EES, is a new digital database designed to record and monitor the movement of non-EU citizens entering and leaving the Schengen Area — a zone comprising 29 European countries.

The system replaces the traditional passport stamp method by collecting travelers’ biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, at the border. This process mirrors existing systems in countries such as the United States, which already use biometric verification to enhance border security.

According to the European Commission, EES serves two primary goals: preventing overstays beyond the allowed 90 days in any 180-day period, and reducing illegal border crossings across the region.

How Will It Work?

When entering the Schengen Zone for the first time under EES, travelers will need to register at a self-service kiosk or manned border control. The system will capture facial images, fingerprints, and passport details to create a digital record.

Once registered, future trips will be faster — travelers’ data will simply be matched with existing records, allowing for automated entry through e-gates where available.

Border control points across Europe have already begun installing these registration kiosks. The European Commission says the process will become quicker after a traveler’s initial visit.

Gradual Rollout Across Member States

To prevent congestion at airports and land borders, the EU is introducing the system in phases. Each country can choose its own pace, provided it meets EU-mandated milestones:

• 30 days after launch: 10% of travelers must be registered.

• 90 days after launch: 35% registered.

• 150 days after launch: 50% registered.

• By April 9, 2026: 100% of travelers entering or exiting must be registered in the system.

At least one border crossing in every Schengen member state must be operational by October 12, with full coverage planned by spring 2026.

What Data Will Be Collected?

The EES will collect:

• Fingerprints and facial images

• Passport details (name, date of birth, document number)

• Entry and exit dates and border points

• Accommodation details and proof of sufficient travel funds

If a traveler is denied entry, that decision will also be recorded in the system and visible during future travel attempts.

Data will be stored for three years, after which it will automatically expire unless renewed by a new visit.

Potential Delays at Borders

EU officials caution that minor delays may occur during the initial rollout as travelers register their biometric information for the first time.

To reduce waiting times, most airports, seaports, and land crossings are equipped with self-service kiosks for faster processing. Once travelers are registered, subsequent crossings should be significantly quicker.

End of Passport Stamps — But Not Yet

Although EES will eventually replace traditional passport stamps, the EU confirmed that stamps will continue to be used temporarily during the six-month transition period.

This dual system ensures that countries still onboarding EES technology can accurately track visitors’ stays until the full rollout is completed in April 2026.

What Happens if You’re Refused Entry?

If a traveler is denied entry, that record will remain in the EES database and be visible to border authorities during any future attempts to enter the Schengen Area.

Officials emphasize that all data handling complies with strict EU data protection and privacy laws under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Will You Need to Register Every Time You Travel?

No. Once your biometric information is stored, it remains valid for three years. Each new visit within that period will automatically renew your registration.

If you don’t travel again within three years, your data will expire and need to be re-entered during your next visit.

Travelers who obtain a new passport do not need to re-register, as their existing biometric data will be linked to the updated passport information.

Who Needs to Register Under EES?

Only non-EU citizens — including tourists, business travelers, and family visitors — are required to register. EU citizens and legal residents already have their biometric information stored through other systems.

Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting but must complete the rest of the registration process.

What About British Travelers?

Since the United Kingdom’s departure from the EU, British citizens are considered “third-country nationals.”

This means that all UK visitors, except those who are EU residents or covered by the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, must register under the EES before entering or leaving the Schengen Area.

ETIAS Is Next

The EES is the first of two major border security initiatives. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) — a pre-travel visa waiver similar to the U.S. ESTA — is scheduled to launch in late 2026, according to EU officials.

An information campaign will begin about six months before ETIAS becomes mandatory.

Conclusion

The launch of the EU’s Entry/Exit System marks a major milestone in the bloc’s border modernization. While it may cause brief delays during its early phase, officials say the system will ultimately make European travel safer, faster, and more efficient for millions of visitors each year.

Source: CNN – Traveling to the European Union is about to get more complicated. Here’s what you need to know

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After over a century of grandeur, decline, and closure, one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks is being brought back to life. Hotel Gellért, once a beacon of high society on the banks of the Danube, is undergoing a full restoration — and it’s set to reopen in 2027 as part of the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.

From Faded Gem to Modern Marvel

Originally opened in 1918, Hotel Gellért was a showpiece of Hungarian Art Nouveau design. With its ornate architecture, pioneering features, and glamorous guests, it quickly became one of Europe’s premier luxury destinations. Over the decades, it welcomed royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood stars — from Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Richard Nixon and Jane Fonda.

But time wasn’t kind. After surviving wars, revolutions, and communism, the hotel’s charm eventually gave way to age. By the time it closed in 2019, the once-grand interiors had grown tired, and the building stood as a dusty shadow of its former self. Only the adjacent thermal baths, still a popular attraction, remained in operation.

A Vision for the Future — Rooted in the Past

Now, thanks to a major investment by Hungary’s BDPST Group, the Hotel Gellért is being reimagined for a new era. The full-scale renovation, which began in late 2024, is being carried out under strict heritage preservation guidelines. Every detail — from the coffered ceilings to the historic Gobelin Room — is being restored using original blueprints and archival photos.

The new Gellért will feature 134 rooms, including 34 suites, combining classic elegance with modern comforts. British design studio Alexander Waterworth Interiors is handling the decor, while Hungarian firm Archikon Architects is leading the architectural work.

Hidden details are already reemerging. During recent renovations, original decorative motifs and design elements long buried under Communist-era renovations have been uncovered — proof of the building’s storied craftsmanship.

A Legacy of Innovation

What made the Gellért extraordinary in its day wasn’t just the decor — it was innovation. At a time when few hotels had telephones, every room here did. Some suites had piped-in thermal water or even carbonated taps. It offered Hungary’s first airport shuttle, and guests could pay in foreign currencies. Even a wave pool graced its famous spa.

“From the beginning, the Gellért was ahead of its time,” says Zoltán Kecskeméthy, managing director of BDPST Real Estate Development. “We want to honor that spirit of progress while respecting the soul of the place.”

A Local Treasure, Reimagined for the World

The team behind the transformation doesn’t just want to create another luxury hotel — they want to restore a national treasure.

“This isn’t just a building,” says Kecskeméthy. “It’s a symbol of Hungarian identity. Our goal is to make international guests feel part of a larger story — and to help locals reconnect with a place that once belonged to them.”

That mission includes reviving the Gellért’s role as a hub of local life. New restaurants will be designed to appeal not just to tourists, but to Budapest residents as well — much like in the hotel’s heyday. A rooftop sky bar will add a fresh, contemporary twist to the hotel’s offerings.

A Cultural Landmark Reawakens

Hungarian National Museum Director-General Gábor Zsigmond emphasizes the hotel’s unique role in the city’s history.

“The Gellért has always been more than just a place to stay,” he explains. “It’s been a setting for major social events, a retreat for the famous, and a striking example of Hungarian architecture. Its future lies in blending that rich heritage with modern luxury.”

While the famed Gellért Baths will continue to operate under city management, a new in-house spa — run by Mandarin Oriental — will offer curated wellness experiences. Every decision, from the spa design to its treatment offerings, is being crafted with timeless appeal in mind.

A Grand Return in 2027

As the Mandarin Oriental Gellért prepares to reopen its doors, the restoration team is confident that the hotel’s next chapter will honor its past while looking boldly toward the future.

“It’s about more than bricks and mortar,” says Kecskeméthy. “We’re restoring pride, reviving memories, and creating something new that the world — and Budapest — can be proud of.”

Source: CNN – It had become a shabby relic. Now one of Europe’s grandest hotels is being restored to its former glory

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Spain, one of the most visited countries in the world, attracted a record-breaking 94 million tourists last year. Renowned for its Mediterranean coastline, historic cities, and breathtaking landscapes, the Southern European nation has become a favorite destination for travelers.

However, the influx of visitors has brought concerns of “overtourism” among locals, with complaints about overcrowding, water usage, and, most significantly, the availability and affordability of housing. These concerns have prompted Spain’s government to regulate certain aspects of tourism, particularly short-term rentals, but rest assured—Spain is not banning tourists.

Here’s what you need to know before booking your trip:

Is Spain Restricting Tourists?

No. While Spain is not limiting tourist arrivals, some cities have started regulating short-term rental properties.

• Malaga: The Andalusian port city has implemented a new policy prohibiting additional rental properties in 43 neighborhoods where short-term rentals exceed 8% of the housing stock. This regulation, effective this month, will run as a three-year trial.
• Barcelona: This Mediterranean hotspot is taking even stricter measures. Barcelona has announced plans to shut down all of its 10,000 licensed short-term rental apartments by 2028 to prioritize housing for full-time residents. No new licenses will be issued after the current ones expire.

Can Tourists Still Book Accommodations?

Yes. Travelers can still book hotels and apartment-style rentals in Spain without issue. These measures are targeted at limiting the expansion of short-term rental properties, not removing existing options for tourists.

Why Is Spain Taking These Measures?

Spain is grappling with a housing affordability crisis, especially in popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where rental prices are soaring. Young people, in particular, are struggling to afford housing as wages fail to keep pace with rising costs.

Short-term rentals catering to tourists are believed to contribute to this issue, driving up demand and, consequently, rental prices for locals. The new regulations aim to strike a balance between preserving Spain’s thriving tourism industry and addressing the housing crisis.

What Else Should Visitors Know?

• New Documentation Requirements:
  Travelers renting cars or booking hotels in Spain will now have to provide additional documentation under a new law aimed at enhancing national security.Hotel owners and car rental companies are required to collect personal information from travelers over the age of 14, including:
  • Passport details
  • Home addresses
  • Payment information

These changes are designed to improve security while minimally impacting tourists’ experiences.

Bottom Line

Spain isn’t banning tourism, but it is taking steps to manage the industry’s impact on housing and local communities. While regulations on short-term rentals may affect certain cities, travelers will still find plenty of accommodation options. As you plan your trip, be aware of the new documentation requirements and take advantage of Spain’s incredible offerings—from its beaches to its art, history, and cuisine.

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Overtourism became one of the defining concerns of 2024, with major destinations continuing to face the pressures of overwhelming tourist crowds. The summer season was especially chaotic, marked by protests, heightened visitor fees, and new restrictions aimed at managing the influx. In Barcelona, locals even took to spraying tourists with water pistols as a public demonstration of frustration.

Efforts to address overtourism, including government regulations and local initiatives, gained momentum throughout the year, but the demand for travel showed no signs of slowing down. Experts predict that overtourism will remain a critical challenge well into 2025, with significant implications for visitors, residents, and the destinations themselves.

The Need for Proactive Solutions

Paula Vlamings, Chief Impact Officer of Tourism Cares, a global nonprofit focused on sustainable tourism, highlights the urgent need for a strategic, proactive approach to tourism. “How do we conduct business? How do we market destinations? How do we serve local communities impacted by tourism?” she says, emphasizing that sustainable strategies are essential for the future as more tourists continue to flock to popular sites.

While there has been some progress — such as a growing interest in lesser-known destinations — experts caution that much remains to be done. Popular European cities like Paris, Barcelona, and London are likely to remain crowded, particularly during peak summer months.

Audrey Scott, co-founder of Uncornered Market, a sustainable tourism consulting firm, points out that while some positive changes have occurred in response to overtourism, the demand for travel will likely keep popular destinations struggling with overcrowding. “The crisis from last year might have led to some positive changes,” she says, “but 2025 will still bring the same challenges.”

Increased Regulations and Tourist Fees

In an effort to manage tourist numbers, many European cities have implemented higher taxes, banned cruise ships from historic centers, and restricted short-term rentals. Venice and Amsterdam, for example, have introduced higher tourism taxes and blocked cruise ships from entering central areas. In Japan, a popular tourist town near Mount Fuji erected barriers in 2024 to curb the growing number of selfie-takers. Cities like New York and Barcelona have also cracked down on Airbnb rentals.

Protests against overtourism were widespread in 2024, with locals in places like Spain, the Netherlands, and Greece taking to the streets to voice their frustration. Issues like rising housing costs, overcrowded public transportation, and a loss of community identity were central to these protests.

However, despite these challenges, tourism numbers continued to rise. In 2024, European countries saw a significant increase in foreign arrivals, surpassing 2019 levels. Portugal, for example, saw a 26% increase in visitors. Spain projected a 5% increase in tourism, and major events like the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam and the Catholic Jubilee celebration in Rome were expected to draw millions of extra visitors.

From Destination Marketing to Management

The shift from marketing tourism to managing it has become a key trend in 2024. Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) have started adopting the term Destination Marketing and Management Organizations (DMMOs), reflecting their broader role in managing both tourism and its impact on local communities.

Barcelona, a city often highlighted as a “poster child” for overtourism, changed its tourism slogan in 2024 from “Visit Barcelona” to “This is Barcelona.” This shift signals a commitment to balancing tourism growth with sustainable practices that support local culture and communities. Scott explains that effective destination management involves creating experiences that benefit both tourists and residents, while maintaining environmental and cultural sustainability.

In addition to better management, some cities are also focusing on educating and inspiring tourists. Amsterdam’s controversial “stay away” campaign aimed at discouraging rowdy tourists and Copenhagen’s CopenPay program, which rewards sustainable travel choices, are prime examples of how destinations are taking a more targeted approach.

Sharing the Tourism Load: Exploring Alternatives

While overtourism is a serious challenge, it has also led to new opportunities for less-visited destinations to shine. Many travelers are now exploring “destination dupes” — alternative cities that offer unique experiences but with fewer crowds. For example, Antwerp, Belgium, has become increasingly popular for its food, culture, and fashion, while remaining less crowded than neighboring hotspots like Bruges or Amsterdam.

Programs like Canada’s Tourism Corridor Strategy, which promotes regions beyond its popular coastal provinces, also aim to disperse tourists more evenly. By highlighting lesser-known destinations, these initiatives aim to alleviate pressure on high-demand spots.

Progress on the Horizon

Although overtourism remains a significant issue, experts see promising signs of progress. Local governments and tourism organizations are dedicating more resources to sustainable tourism initiatives. In Lake Tahoe, for instance, a comprehensive stewardship plan has introduced solutions like vanpools and improved parking programs to reduce congestion. Such efforts reflect a growing recognition that sustainable tourism can benefit both visitors and residents.

Similarly, tourism organizations are focusing on ensuring that local communities thrive alongside growing visitor numbers. Scott cites Destination Karakol in Kyrgyzstan, where tourism is being developed with a focus on improving local residents’ quality of life. Such long-term strategies are gaining traction, offering hope for more balanced tourism models.

How Travelers Can Make a Difference

Travelers, too, have a role in mitigating overtourism. Simple adjustments — like visiting popular destinations during the off-season or choosing alternative neighborhoods — can ease the pressure on crowded locations. Vlamings encourages tourists to consider where and how they spend their money, supporting locally owned businesses and services that contribute to the community.

Tourism Cares’ Meaningful Travel Map is one tool that helps travelers discover locally-led accommodations, tours, and services in destinations worldwide. Vlamings emphasizes that sustainable tourism is about more than just avoiding crowded sites — it’s about being conscious and intentional in how we interact with places and people.

Ultimately, sustainable tourism is about making the destination a better place for both visitors and locals. Scott’s definition encapsulates this idea: “Tourism that makes the place better for local people to live.”

Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead

While overtourism remains a major challenge, the ongoing shift towards sustainable, community-focused tourism is an encouraging trend. Governments, tourism organizations, and travelers must continue to collaborate to create solutions that benefit all stakeholders. With concerted efforts and responsible travel choices, the future of tourism can be more balanced and sustainable for both visitors and the places they love to explore.

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