Travel
Valencia joins Barcelona with licensing plans to halt over-tourism

In an effort to combat over-tourism, Valencia has announced new licensing plans, aligning with measures previously implemented by Barcelona. This strategic move aims to regulate the influx of tourists and preserve the quality of life for local residents, addressing concerns that have been growing over the past few years.
Valencia, a popular destination renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant festivals, has seen a sharp increase in tourist numbers. While tourism has significantly boosted the local economy, it has also led to overcrowding, strained infrastructure, and rising living costs. The city’s new licensing plans are designed to mitigate these issues by controlling the number of accommodations available to tourists.
Starting next year, all short-term rental properties in Valencia will be required to obtain a special license. The city will also impose stricter regulations on new hotel developments and limit the number of tourist accommodations in the city center. These measures mirror those adopted by Barcelona, which faced similar challenges and has been a forerunner in implementing policies to manage tourism sustainably.
“We want to ensure that tourism benefits everyone without compromising the quality of life for our residents,” said Joan Ribó, the Mayor of Valencia. “These new regulations will help us achieve a balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining the livability of our city.”
The licensing plan includes measures such as capping the number of licenses issued, prioritizing local residents’ housing needs, and ensuring that short-term rentals comply with safety and zoning regulations. Existing rental properties will need to reapply for licenses, ensuring they meet the new criteria.
Local businesses and residents have expressed mixed reactions to the new measures. Some support the initiative, believing it will help reduce the negative impacts of over-tourism and create a more sustainable environment. Others, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality industries, are concerned about the potential economic impact.
“Tourism is a major part of Valencia’s economy,” said Carmen López, owner of a local bed and breakfast. “While I understand the need for regulation, it’s important that these measures don’t stifle business. A balanced approach is crucial.”
Valencia’s decision to follow in Barcelona’s footsteps comes as part of a broader trend across Europe, where cities are grappling with the challenges of over-tourism. Venice, Amsterdam, and Dubrovnik are among other cities that have introduced similar measures to manage tourist numbers and protect their cultural and historical integrity.
The new licensing plans are also part of Valencia’s broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism. The city is investing in infrastructure improvements, enhancing public transportation, and promoting off-season travel to distribute tourist numbers more evenly throughout the year.
“We are committed to creating a sustainable tourism model that respects our city and its residents,” said Sandra Gómez, Deputy Mayor of Valencia. “These measures are an essential step towards achieving that goal.”
As Valencia implements these new regulations, it will be closely watched by other cities facing similar challenges. The success of these measures could serve as a model for balancing tourism growth with the needs and well-being of local communities.
Travel
Rome Braces for Travel Disruptions Following the Death of Pope Francis

Travellers to Rome over the coming weeks should expect significant disruptions and closures at some of the city’s most iconic religious sites following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, died on Monday after suffering a stroke that led to a coma and subsequent heart failure. His passing has set in motion a series of deeply traditional rituals, including a funeral, public mourning, and the election of a new pope.
Among the immediate impacts is the closure of the Sistine Chapel, which will be used exclusively by the College of Cardinals for the conclave—the secretive process to elect the next pope. The Vatican announced the chapel will close to the public from April 28 and remain inaccessible until several days after the conclave concludes, likely reopening in mid-May.
Other nearby attractions will also see changes. The Vatican Museums will remain open except for April 26, when they will close to honor the Pope’s funeral. However, access to the Sistine Chapel will be suspended, and security will be tight throughout Vatican City. Tours of the Vatican Gardens and the Necropolis of the Via Triumphalis are also suspended due to increased security measures as cardinals travel between the chapel and their accommodations.
St. Peter’s Basilica is currently hosting thousands of mourners, with the late pontiff’s body lying in state until April 25. Public access is possible from 7 a.m. to midnight on April 24, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 25. However, long queues and strict dress codes are in place. Parts of the basilica, including the dome, are closed to visitors, and all guided tours are suspended.
The Pope’s funeral is scheduled for April 26 at St. Peter’s Square and is expected to draw millions. Hotel and flight prices have already begun to climb in anticipation of the influx of visitors, many of whom are traveling to witness what is considered a historic and spiritual milestone.
Following the funeral, attention will turn to the election of the new pope. Tourists and faithful can witness the traditional smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel chimney—black indicating no decision, and white signaling that a new pope has been chosen. Crowds are expected to gather in large numbers in St. Peter’s Square for this moment.
While some visitors may be disappointed by limited access to key religious sites, others are embracing the rare opportunity to witness the Vatican during a pivotal moment in modern Church history.
Travel
Travel Industry Faces Scrutiny Over Website Accessibility Failures
Travel
World’s Largest Cruise Ships Set to Make Waves in 2025
The cruise industry is gearing up for a landmark year in 2025, with several colossal ships preparing to set sail, promising unprecedented scale, luxury, and innovation at sea. With 17 new vessels expected to debut, five stand out as the biggest and most ambitious, redefining what it means to cruise in style.
1. Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Leading the fleet is Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, a sister ship to the current record-holder, Icon of the Seas. Weighing in at a staggering 250,800 tonnes—slightly heavier than Icon—this floating city will embark on seven-night cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida, visiting popular Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations, including the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The ship features eight themed neighborhoods, 40 dining and bar venues, multiple pools, waterslides, and even a three-level Family Townhouse. Royal Caribbean has announced that Star of the Seas will begin full operations on August 31, with early “showcase sailings” offering shorter trips starting earlier in the summer.
2. Disney Cruise Line’s Adventure
Disney Cruise Line is launching its largest ship yet, Disney Adventure, in December. At 208,000 tonnes and 342 meters in length, it will carry around 6,000 guests. Based in Singapore, Adventure will offer three- to five-night cruises with no port calls—just immersive Disney entertainment at sea.
This ship will be the first Disney vessel based in Asia and will feature unique attractions such as a rollercoaster at sea, Marvel-themed experiences, and seven different “lands.” It is currently under construction, with a float-out planned for May and a maiden voyage scheduled for December 15.
3. MSC Cruises’ World America
Weighing 205,700 tonnes, World America is the second in MSC’s World-class series, following World Europa. From its Miami base, the ship will alternate seven-night Caribbean routes, including stops in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
The 22-deck ship boasts 19 restaurants, 20 bars, a Family Aventura park with over-water swings, and an onboard waterpark. World America is already completed and will be officially named in Miami on April 9, with Hollywood actress Drew Barrymore as its godmother.
4. Princess Cruises’ Star Princess
Star Princess, a 175,000-tonne vessel, is Princess Cruises’ second Sphere-class ship and the largest ever built in Italy. Slated for delivery in September, it will initially sail Mediterranean routes before heading to the Caribbean and Alaska in 2026. Amenities include pickleball and basketball courts, expanded bars, and new dining experiences.
5. TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff Relax
Already in operation, the 160,000-tonne Mein Schiff Relax entered service in March, focusing on wellness. With a spa, yoga deck, and over 30 dining venues, the ship currently runs Mediterranean cruises and will later shift to the Canary Islands.
Despite their grandeur, such mega-ships face challenges. Port capacity, local tourism limits—like those now enforced in Santorini—and environmental concerns around LNG fuel use are reshaping the future of cruising. With passenger preferences shifting post-pandemic, it remains to be seen whether “bigger is better” will remain the industry’s guiding mantra.
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