The unrest follows a large-scale operation by Mexican security forces that left more than 70 people dead, according to authorities. The clashes have drawn international attention and raised questions about security preparedness as Guadalajara prepares to welcome global football fans in June.

For many residents, the immediate concern is economic as much as physical safety.

Maria Dolores Aguirre, who runs a small family-owned store in the mountain town of Tapalpa, said the violence has shaken confidence in a region that relies on tourism. “It’s going to affect us. It’s collateral damage,” she said, expressing fears that travelers may reconsider visiting after images of gunfire and military helicopters circulated widely.

Security tensions in Jalisco after El Mencho operation

The operation targeted Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Mexican authorities said he died after a firefight with the military near Tapalpa, in Jalisco state.

Defense Secretary Gen. Ricardo Trevilla told reporters that security forces had tracked one of Oseguera’s romantic partners to his location. The suspect and two bodyguards reportedly fled into a wooded area and were wounded in a shootout before being detained. They died while being transported to Mexico City, Trevilla said.

The CJNG is considered one of Mexico’s most powerful and rapidly expanding criminal organizations. U.S. authorities have accused it of trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States and of orchestrating high-profile attacks against Mexican officials.

The U.S. government confirmed it provided intelligence support for the operation. The U.S. State Department had previously offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to Oseguera’s arrest.

While Mexican officials framed the operation as a significant blow to organized crime, violence flared across multiple states in its aftermath. Residents reported road blockades, vehicle burnings and exchanges of gunfire, a pattern often seen following high-profile cartel arrests or killings.

Pressure from Washington and domestic security strategy

The operation also unfolded against a backdrop of renewed pressure from Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Mexico to intensify its crackdown on drug trafficking organizations, warning of possible tariffs or unilateral measures if progress is not demonstrated.

Mexico’s government has increased military deployments and high-level operations against major criminal groups in recent months. Officials have not directly linked the timing of the Tapalpa operation to diplomatic pressure, but analysts note that bilateral security cooperation has intensified.

For Mexican authorities, the removal of one of the country’s most wanted figures may signal resolve. Yet past experience suggests that leadership vacuums can trigger internal power struggles or retaliatory violence, at least in the short term.

Tourist destinations on edge

In the Pacific resort city of Puerto Vallarta, explosions and plumes of smoke were reported shortly after the operation. The city, long popular with both domestic and international tourists, experienced flight cancellations and temporary disruptions.

Steve Perkins, a visitor from Oklahoma, said he and his wife were on their hotel terrace when they saw smoke rising in different parts of the city. Their return flight was canceled, delaying their departure by several days.

Perkins said they had traveled annually to Puerto Vallarta for more than a decade and had previously felt secure. This time, he said, the atmosphere was different. “There’s a lot of Americans trapped here,” he said, referring to fellow travelers affected by cancellations.

Local authorities have sought to reassure visitors, emphasizing that security forces are maintaining a presence in key tourist corridors. Still, images of armed confrontations and burned vehicles have circulated widely on social media and international news outlets.

World Cup spotlight

Guadalajara, Jalisco’s capital, is one of the Mexican host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada under FIFA. The tournament is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of international visitors across the three countries.

Major sporting events in Mexico have historically been accompanied by significant security operations. Federal and local authorities are likely to increase visible patrols and coordination in the run-up to the tournament.

For small-business owners like Aguirre in Tapalpa, however, the concern is immediate. Her 15-year-old son’s classes were suspended due to the violence, and uncertainty lingers over who effectively controls areas surrounding the town — the military or remnants of cartel structures.

She worries not only about reprisals but also about longer-term instability. “If they really did kill this leader, it could be that they fight between each other to win control or see who will lead it,” she said.

That uncertainty reflects a broader pattern in Mexico’s long-running conflict with organized crime. High-profile arrests or killings have at times weakened cartels, but they have also been followed by fragmentation and competition among rival factions.

Balancing security and economic stability

Tourism accounts for a significant share of income in coastal Jalisco and surrounding regions. With global attention turning toward the World Cup, maintaining stability is not only a public safety priority but an economic one.

Mexican authorities have not announced additional extraordinary measures beyond existing security deployments. However, federal officials are expected to coordinate closely with state governments as preparations for the tournament accelerate.

For residents in Tapalpa and Puerto Vallarta, the coming weeks will be telling. Whether violence subsides or escalates may shape perceptions far beyond Jalisco — at a moment when Mexico is preparing to host one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.

Source: AP News – Mexican cartel clashes fuel worries in lead up to FIFA World Cup

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The incident, centered on a viral social media image, has expanded beyond a domestic scandal into a test of Helsinki’s international reputation. Officials moved quickly to reassure partners in Asia after the controversy began circulating widely online and prompted public criticism from regional governments.

As first reported by The Associated Press, the situation intensified when politicians from Finland’s ruling coalition publicly echoed the gesture seen in the image, raising concerns among Asian governments and observers that the episode reflected broader cultural insensitivity.

The episode now threatens to affect tourism flows, diplomatic ties, and Finland’s carefully cultivated image as a country committed to equality and inclusion.

Diplomatic Repercussions Reach Across Asia

The backlash began after a photograph circulated online showing Dzafce pulling the corners of her eyes, a gesture widely interpreted as mocking Asian facial features. The caption accompanying the image referenced dining “with a Chinese,” further fueling criticism across social media platforms and political circles.

Asian governments quickly took notice. Officials in Japan and South Korea raised concerns through diplomatic channels, reflecting how a controversy tied to a beauty pageant evolved into a broader international issue.

Japan’s top government spokesperson, Minoru Kihara, confirmed that Tokyo contacted Finland’s embassy to convey its concerns and seek clarification about the response from Helsinki.

The outreach illustrates how cultural controversies—particularly those involving public figures—can quickly spill into the diplomatic arena when they resonate across national borders.

Government Moves to Contain Reputational Damage

Facing intensifying criticism, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo issued a public apology to multiple Asian countries. Statements were released through Finnish embassies and translated into regional languages in an effort to reach affected audiences directly.

“These posts do not reflect Finland’s values of equality and inclusion,” Orpo said in a statement distributed through diplomatic channels.

The prime minister emphasized that racism and discrimination have no place in Finnish society and acknowledged that public officials carry a responsibility to set examples in their conduct.

Such messaging signals the government’s recognition that the controversy has implications beyond domestic politics, particularly given Finland’s economic and tourism links with Asian countries.

Domestic Political Support Fuels International Concern

The diplomatic fallout intensified after several far-right Finnish politicians posted images of themselves repeating the same eye-pulling gesture in solidarity with Dzafce following the loss of her title.

Their posts circulated widely online, amplifying outrage across Asian social media and reinforcing perceptions that the controversy extended beyond a single individual.

The response has exposed tensions within Finland’s political landscape, where debates over immigration, identity politics, and cultural norms have increasingly intersected with international perceptions of the country.

For Helsinki, the episode illustrates how domestic political gestures can carry global consequences in a highly interconnected digital environment.

Tourism and Aviation Sector Feel Early Pressure

The controversy has also begun to affect Finland’s economic interests. Some social media users in Asia have called for boycotts of travel to Finland and of the national airline Finnair, highlighting how reputational controversies can quickly translate into consumer reactions.

According to Yle, Finland’s public broadcaster, a senior communications executive at Finnair acknowledged that the airline’s international operations have felt the impact of the scandal, although detailed figures were not disclosed.

Asian travelers represent a significant segment of Finland’s tourism sector, making the situation particularly sensitive for businesses tied to international travel and hospitality.

Title Revocation Attempts to Stabilize the Situation

Amid the growing backlash, the Miss Finland Organization revoked Dzafce’s title as Miss Finland 2025.

The organization said the events had caused “deep hurt, disappointment and concern both in Finland and internationally,” adding that racism is unacceptable in any form.

Dzafce had previously apologized on social media, stating that she never intended to offend anyone and acknowledging that holding the national title carried responsibilities regarding public behavior.

She also told Finnish media that the photograph had been shared privately and that the caption circulating online had not been written by her.

Finland’s International Image Faces a New Test

The controversy highlights the reputational vulnerabilities facing countries whose global brands are closely tied to values such as equality, social inclusion, and progressive governance.

For Finland, which regularly ranks among the world’s most stable and socially progressive societies, the incident has prompted renewed scrutiny over how domestic debates resonate internationally.

While government apologies and institutional responses may ease immediate diplomatic tensions, the episode underscores the growing challenge governments face in managing reputational risks in an era where social media controversies can quickly escalate into international disputes.

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Republic of Palau (Journos News) – The island nation of Palau, home to fewer than 20,000 people, has become a focal point of international attention, caught in the crosshairs of a geopolitical struggle between China, the United States, and Taiwan. Shifts in tourism, land development, and military infrastructure illustrate how global politics ripple down to the daily lives of Palauans.

Once thriving with Chinese tourists, Palau’s tourism sector saw a sudden collapse in 2017 when Beijing reportedly ordered tour operators to halt travel packages to the islands. Local dive operators, hotel owners, and fishermen, who had expanded rapidly to accommodate the influx, were left with idling boats and empty accommodations. Palauan officials allege the move was an effort to pressure the nation into withdrawing diplomatic recognition from Taiwan, though China has denied using tourism as a political tool.

Tourism as Diplomatic Leverage

Palau is one of only a handful of countries that officially recognize Taiwan. Beijing views such recognition as a challenge to its “one China” policy and has sought to influence small Pacific nations to switch allegiance. Scholars note that tourism, investment, and diplomatic invitations have all been leveraged in this broader strategy.

Taiwan, in contrast, has cultivated deep local ties through scholarships, medical teams, and agricultural aid. For many Palauan officials, Taiwan is seen as a reliable partner. Jessica Lee, Taiwan’s ambassador to Palau, described the relationship as “solid as a rock until death do us part.” Nevertheless, recent years have seen China persuade other Pacific nations, including the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, and Nauru, to switch diplomatic recognition.

President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau has publicly resisted Beijing’s overtures. In 2021, he reported being offered a million Chinese tourists in exchange for changing Palau’s recognition of Taiwan, which he refused. China’s subsequent travel advisories warning citizens to “exercise caution” in Palau were framed as a safety measure, though Palauan officials interpreted them as political pressure.

Strategic Location and US Military Interests

Palau’s location on the so-called “Second Island Chain” gives it strategic importance for monitoring military movements in the western Pacific. Under the Compact of Free Association, Palau grants the US exclusive military access in exchange for extensive aid, including rights for Palauan citizens to live and work in the United States.

The US has been expanding its footprint with upgraded airstrips, a Tactical Multi-Mission Over-the-horizon Radar (Tacmor) system, and plans to enlarge Malakal Harbour for larger vessels. US officials have expressed concern over nearby Chinese investments, particularly land leases near strategic military sites, including proposed resorts and residential developments. Washington fears these could be converted for military purposes if tensions with China escalate.

Chinese Investment and Local Concerns

Chinese businesses have leased thousands of square metres of land in Palau, prompting scrutiny from both US and Palauan authorities. While some projects were reportedly legitimate tourism investments, Palauan officials remain wary of potential strategic motives. National security advisor Jennifer Anson noted, “Maybe on the outside, but when the time comes that China invades Taiwan, these could be transformed into military sites.”

Local perspectives are mixed. Some residents view the US military buildup and Chinese investments as distant geopolitical concerns, while others worry about their implications for security and the environment. Environmental organizations have also highlighted the ecological impact of past tourist booms, including coral damage and overuse of fragile coastal resources.

Chinese-Linked Crime and the Diplomatic Gap

Since 2018, Palauan authorities have also reported the rise of Chinese-linked organized crime, including illegal gambling, cybercrime, and money laundering. High-profile cases, such as the entry of Macau triad leader Wan Kuok Koi (“Broken Tooth”) and sanctions against the Prince Group, underscore concerns that the lack of diplomatic ties to China enables criminal actors to operate with relative impunity.

Analysts argue that the absence of Chinese consular presence in Palau has inadvertently created a permissive environment for illicit activity. “When you trawl Chinese diaspora sites in Cambodia, the criminals themselves are drawn by the lack of PRC diplomatic presence there,” said Graeme Smith, senior fellow at the Australian National University.

Local Perceptions and Growing Anxiety

For many Palauans, the high-level strategic contest between China and the US feels remote, but its consequences are tangible. Concerns about potential conflict, military installations, and foreign influence have fueled public unease. Community petitions have called for US assurances regarding civilian safety in the event of hostilities, highlighting the deep anxiety within the population.

“This administration is very hawkish towards China, and I think it’s ridiculous,” said a former governor of Angaur. “We should concentrate on the environment and less on China-US relations.”

President Whipps Jr. has echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Palau’s location makes it an inevitable center of strategic attention. “No matter what we do, Palau is going to be the center of any military activity because of our location,” he told the BBC.

Conclusion

Palau’s experience underscores how a small nation can become entwined in global power rivalries. Tourism fluctuations, land acquisitions, and military infrastructure are not merely economic or technical issues—they are part of a larger geopolitical chessboard involving China, the US, and Taiwan. For Palauans, these distant contests are felt in their daily lives, shaping both security perceptions and economic stability.

Source: BBC – Chinese land, US radar and ties to Taiwan: The geopolitics rattling a tiny Pacific nation

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As hurricanes, floods, and wildfires intensify around the world, travelers are increasingly facing an ethical question: when is it appropriate to return to a destination recovering from a natural disaster? The answer, experts say, depends on a careful balance between safety, sensitivity, and community support.

Less than a week after Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica, leaving 72% of residents without electricity and causing an estimated $6–7 billion in damages, the country’s tourism minister announced plans to reopen by mid-December — in time for peak tourist season.

But with thousands still displaced, many potential visitors are wondering: is it too soon?

Traveling After Disaster: A Growing Dilemma

The question of when to visit after catastrophe is not new — but it’s becoming increasingly urgent. As climate change drives more intense storms, floods, and wildfires, tourism-dependent economies must weigh the need for revenue against the emotional and physical recovery of residents.

Experts say travelers should evaluate whether their trip will help or hinder recovery efforts and how their presence might affect locals still coping with loss.

Is Your Visit Helping the Community?

Following Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico reopened to tourists just three months after the storm. While the return of visitors brought economic relief, many locals — still without power or running water — felt anger and frustration.

“I think it left a bad taste in locals’ mouths,” said Mikey Cordero, co-founder of the Defend Puerto Rico Media Collective. “You’re enjoying what local people built, but it doesn’t trickle back down to us.”

Cordero emphasized that travelers should ensure their spending directly supports local communities, especially in regions dominated by all-inclusive resorts or cruise tourism, where profits often flow to corporations abroad.

Simple choices — like staying at locally owned accommodations, eating in neighborhood restaurants, and buying from small vendors — can help disaster-stricken communities recover faster and more equitably.

Are You Helping or Just Watching?

After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, a controversial wave of “disaster tours” emerged, bussing visitors past destroyed neighborhoods.

“There were still boats in trees and houses sitting on top of barges,” recalled Jason Bradberry, a longtime resident. Public backlash eventually led city officials to ban tours in the worst-hit areas, such as the Lower Ninth Ward.

“No one wants to be cleaning out the remnants of their family home while a tour bus drives by,” said Kelly Schultz, senior vice president at New Orleans & Company, whose own family lost their house during the storm.

However, Schultz noted that another kind of visitor made a genuine difference: voluntourists. “We had college students who came here for spring break to help rebuild churches and schools,” she said. “You could be on a beach, but you chose to come gut somebody’s home.”

Schultz added that welcoming back visitors who respected the recovery process helped preserve the city’s cultural identity. Campaigns like “Soul is Waterproof” highlighted New Orleans’ resilience through its music, cuisine, and traditions.

Organizations such as the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and local community groups continue to offer volunteer opportunities for those who want to contribute rather than simply observe.

Are You Listening to the Locals?

In 2023, wildfires tore through Maui, destroying large portions of Lāhainā and displacing thousands. Hawaiian officials quickly called for a temporary halt to tourism to ensure that resources could focus on residents.

“The moratorium lasted about a week,” explained Ilihia Gionson of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, “but the key was that locals played a central role in deciding when and how to reopen.”

Officials conducted a rapid needs assessment, revealing that over a third of affected residents cited financial or housing instability as their top concern. With nearly 60,000 jobs tied to visitor spending, the recovery plan emphasized restoring tourism — but only in a way that respected those still rebuilding.

Visitors were discouraged from entering devastated neighborhoods and instead encouraged to support local businesses and donate to relief efforts.

“The outpouring of aloha was heartwarming,” Gionson said. “People from around the world offered help, donations, and expertise.”

So How Soon Is Too Soon?

There’s no single timeline for when a destination should reopen after a disaster. Experts agree that decisions should hinge on transparent communication, community input, and visitor sensitivity.

Before booking a trip to a recovering area, travelers should ask:

• Is the local infrastructure ready for visitors?

• Will my visit provide economic support or strain limited resources?

• Am I respecting local requests and boundaries?

• Can I volunteer or contribute to recovery efforts?

As Gionson notes, the goal is to ensure that reopening tourism benefits everyone — not just visitors. Respectful travel, he says, should align with the community’s recovery needs, not compete with them.

Ultimately, “how soon is too soon” depends less on the calendar and more on how visitors choose to show up — with empathy, awareness, and a willingness to help rebuild.

Source: BBC – How soon is too soon to visit after a disaster?

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New York City — New York’s vibrant streets are a bit quieter these days, and it’s not just because of the usual ebb and flow of tourists. The city is noticing a significant drop in foreign visitors, and local businesses and guides are starting to feel the impact.

“There’s a worldwide fear about what’s happening in the U.S.,” says Bill Martin, an Australian traveler currently touring New York on an open-air bus. On his six-week journey from Tokyo to Vancouver, with a stop in NYC, Martin has heard the same concerns from fellow tourists around the globe.

“People worry about getting into the U.S.,” he explains. “There’s a real doubt about whether they’ll be allowed in, and that makes them consider other destinations.”

Political Climate Fuels Travel Anxiety

It’s not just casual tourists who feel the heat. Eman Moretti, an Italian student studying in the U.S., shares that President Trump’s tough immigration policies have made his family hesitant to visit him in New York.

“It was a bit harder for them to come,” Moretti says, walking through Times Square with his family. “You never know if they’ll get through customs. It feels like a hostile environment.”

Javier Muenala from Ecuador agrees. “Your visa could be canceled,” he says bluntly. “That risk scares many people away.”

The Numbers Tell the Story

This anxiety is reflected in the data. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, international travelers are expected to spend $12.5 billion less in the U.S. this year.

For cities that rely heavily on tourism dollars, this drop is painful. New York City, the top U.S. destination for international visitors, is expected to host 2 million fewer international tourists in 2025 than it did in 2024 — a 17% decline, according to New York City Tourism + Conventions CEO Julie Coker.

“International visitors make up only 20% of our total tourists but account for 50% of visitor spending,” Coker says. “We were hoping to hit pre-Covid levels this year, so this slowdown is really disappointing.”

Canadians Are Staying Home — And It’s Hurting NYC

Historically, more Canadians visit the U.S. than any other nationality. But recent political tensions are causing many Canadians to reconsider.

Matt Levy, owner of Spread Love Tours, which offers customized New York tours, has seen business slow, especially among Canadian student groups.

“Canadians are choosing places like Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Vancouver instead,” Levy says. “They’re spending money in their own country.”

He adds that Canadian travel agents have warned clients away from the U.S., citing tariffs and political rhetoric — including Trump’s controversial comments about making Canada the 51st state.

“If this political climate doesn’t improve, 2026 could be even tougher,” Levy warns. “Forty percent of my business depends on Canadian visitors, and they’re staying home.”

Tour Guides and Small Businesses Feel the Impact

Renée Rewiski, a New York City tour guide for over 10 years, says the slowdown is the worst she’s seen since the Covid pandemic.

“This time last year, I’d have 20 people on a tour; now I have five,” she says while leading a small group through lower Manhattan. “Fewer people, fewer countries represented.”

Rewiski worries that if the trend continues, jobs in the tourism industry could be at risk.

“It’s not the policymakers or politicians who lose out—it’s people like me and my colleagues,” she says. “The folks who rely on tourism every day are the ones feeling the pain.”

Hope on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, optimism remains. NYC Tourism + Conventions is running an international campaign called “With Love + Liberty, New York City” to remind travelers that the city is open and welcoming.

Coker points to upcoming events — like the 2026 World Cup nearby in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and the U.S.’s 250th anniversary celebration next summer — as opportunities to bring international visitors back.

“We’ve hit a bump in the road,” she says, “but New York City is here, ready and waiting for you whenever you decide to visit.”

Bottom Line: NYC Still Has Its Magic — And It Wants You Back

So, if you’re thinking about a trip, remember: New York City’s doors are wide open. The concerns around travel may feel daunting, but the city’s iconic energy, culture, and warmth remain as strong as ever. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or first-time visitor, NYC is ready to welcome you back with open arms.

Source: CNN – Fewer foreign tourists are visiting NYC. The city is feeling the pinch

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Edinburgh has made history by becoming the first city in the United Kingdom to introduce a tourist tax for overnight visitors. Local politicians approved the measure, which aims to generate substantial revenue for the Scottish capital and address the strain tourism places on city resources.

Key Details of the Tourist Tax

• Implementation Timeline: The tax will take effect in mid-2026.
• Tax Structure: Visitors staying in accommodations such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, self-catering apartments, or guest houses will pay a 5% fee on their nightly accommodation cost.
• Fee Cap: The charge is capped at five consecutive nights per stay.
• Collection Responsibility: Accommodation providers will collect the fee on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council.

Why the Tax?

City officials emphasized that the increasing number of tourists puts significant pressure on Edinburgh’s resources. Jane Meagher, head of the City of Edinburgh Council, explained the necessity for sustainable tourism:

“Tourism puts strain on the city’s resources, which need funds to develop in a planned and sustainable way.”

In 2023 alone, the city hosted nearly 5 million overnight visitors, contributing £2.2 billion ($2.7 billion) to the economy, according to Visit Scotland.

Projected Revenue and Its Purpose

• The council anticipates the tax will generate £45-50 million ($56-62 million) annually by 2028 or 2029.
• Under the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, the revenue must be used to improve local facilities and services heavily utilized by tourists, such as infrastructure, public spaces, and cultural programs.

Public Feedback and Adjustments

Edinburgh’s journey to adopting a tourist tax began in 2018 and gained momentum with the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, which became effective in July 2023.

• Resident and Business Feedback: Over 50% of residents and businesses supported the proposed 5% charge, though 62% of visitors opposed the levy or wanted it to be lower.
• Changes to the Plan: Initially, the fee was capped at seven nights. However, after input from Visit Scotland and Edinburgh Festivals, the cap was reduced to five nights to accommodate festival performers and workers who often stay for extended periods.

Diverse Opinions on the Tax

While many see the tax as an opportunity to invest in the city, some councillors pushed for a higher fee, hoping to direct revenue toward addressing Edinburgh’s affordable housing crisis. Housing is particularly expensive for hospitality workers, creating a disparity in the city’s workforce housing availability.

A Broader European Trend

Edinburgh joins other European cities in adopting a tourist tax, a trend gaining popularity in recent years.

• Venice: Introduced a temporary entrance fee for day-trippers, raising millions of euros and hailed as a success.
• Amsterdam: Charges a 12.5% tax on hotel rooms, along with a flat €14.50 ($15.20) fee per passenger for sea and river cruise operators.
• Wales: The Welsh government is planning similar legislation this year.

A Transformative Move for Edinburgh

Ahead of the final vote, Jane Meagher called the tourist tax:

“A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest tens of millions of pounds towards enhancing and sustaining the things that make our city such a great place to visit – and live in – all year round.”

With this new measure, Edinburgh aims to balance the benefits of its booming tourism industry with the sustainability of its local resources and infrastructure.

Source

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While global travel is easier than ever, with more destinations being connected through countless new flight routes, some iconic attractions are disappearing. Whether due to natural disasters, financial struggles, or changing tastes, these once-popular sites are no longer accessible. Here’s a look at several major tourist spots you won’t be able to visit in 2025 — and perhaps never again.

1. Two Las Vegas Landmarks Gone

Las Vegas said goodbye to two major casino-hotels in 2024. The Mirage, a classic property from 1989, will be replaced by a Hard Rock hotel shaped like a giant guitar. The Tropicana, meanwhile, was demolished to make way for a new stadium for the Oakland Athletics baseball team, relocating to Vegas.
Plan B: Check out the futuristic Sphere, an event venue with a massive LED-lit orb, which transformed the Vegas Strip in 2024.

2. Chez Michou, Paris

The famous drag club Chez Michou in Paris’ Montmartre neighborhood closed in 2024 after the death of its beloved owner, Michel “Michou” Catty. Known for inspiring the musical “La Cage aux Folles,” the club was a Parisian institution for decades.
Plan B: For a taste of Parisian cabaret, head to Crazy Horse near the Champs-Elysees for burlesque and performances by top stars like Lisa from Blackpink.

3. The Rubin Museum of Art, New York

New York’s Rubin Museum, renowned for its Himalayan art collection, closed its physical location in 2024 and transitioned to a “museum without walls.”
Plan B: Explore the Nicholas Roerich Museum, a hidden gem on the Upper West Side, featuring stunning Himalayan-inspired artwork.

4. Fotografiska, New York

Fotografiska, the photography museum with a Stockholm-based origin, closed its Park Avenue location in 2024. While they hope to reopen elsewhere in NYC, for now, the museum is no more.
Plan B: Visit the International Center of Photography in the Lower East Side for dynamic photography exhibitions, talks, and book signings.

5. Wayfarers Chapel, California

California’s Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Lloyd Wright, is closing due to climate change and the risk of landslides in the area. The chapel will be dismantled and stored until a new location is found.
Plan B: Explore Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, known for its striking glass architecture, just 40 miles west.

6. Private Streets in Gion, Kyoto

Kyoto’s historic Gion neighborhood—famous for its geishas—is limiting public access to many side streets and alleys, to preserve privacy for residents and trainees.
Plan B: Learn more about geisha culture at the Gion Kagai Art Museum, which opened in 2024 and offers performances and exhibits on geishas.

7. Rothko Chapel, Houston

The iconic Rothko Chapel in Houston suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Beryl in 2024, and it’s currently closed indefinitely.
Plan B: Check out Rothko Rooms at museums like the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, or Tate Modern in London for a dose of Rothko’s mesmerizing art.

8. Living Computers: Museum + Labs, Seattle

Seattle’s Living Computers: Museum + Labs, showcasing vintage tech and interactive exhibits, closed its doors in 2024. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the museum’s collection will be auctioned off.
Plan B: Visit the Museum of Pop Culture, also supported by Allen, for a colorful and eclectic collection of pop culture and sci-fi history.

9. “Double Arch” at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

In 2024, the Double Arch in Utah’s Glen Canyon collapsed due to natural erosion and changes in water levels, taking one of the region’s most iconic rock formations with it.
Plan B: Visit Arches National Park nearby, or explore other natural landmarks like Goblin Valley and Coral Pink Sand Dunes for beautiful, uncrowded views.

While these closures are sad, they open the door for new experiences. Whether visiting other cultural institutions or exploring different natural wonders, there’s always something new to discover. Keep exploring!

Source

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