Listen to today’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-travellers-daily/id1842920062
True Travellers Society Podcast — October 28, 2025
Welcome back, travelers. Today’s podcast episode was created from the following stories: a mix of culture, policy, sustainability, and the innovations shaping how we move around the world.
Indigenous tribes risk extinction as clout-chasing influencers invade remote communities: report
By Ben Cost — October 27, 2025
A new report from Survival International warns that uncontacted Indigenous peoples face existential risk as influencers, tourists, missionaries, and illegal fishers encroach on their territories. The group cites 196 uncontacted groups—95% in the Amazon—and says half could be wiped out within 10 years due to disease exposure and land theft. High-profile attempts to reach North Sentinel Island underscore how social media clout can fuel dangerous copycat behavior.
Tourist falls into canal in viral mishap, blames it on Google Maps’ directions: See the video
By Ashley J. DiMella — October 27, 2025
A tourist in Venice went viral after slipping into a canal while following Google Maps, sparking debates over common sense versus digital navigation. The incident reignited discussion around overtourism and the city’s 2024 day-tripper fees (€5–€10 on select dates), which some agents say have not meaningfully deterred crowds. The takeaway: know your surroundings—and your steps—especially in fragile historic cities.
U.S. TRAVEL’S NEW POLICY ARM PUSHES AIRPORT, VISA FIXES BEFORE WORLD CUP
By Bailey Schulz — October 27, 2025
With a projected $100 billion in economic activity on the line, a new coalition (ASTMEC) backed by the U.S. Travel Association is pressing for visa modernization, biometric security, and airport infrastructure upgrades ahead of the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. The push comes amid lingering inbound recovery, visa backlogs, and congestion that could strain the visitor experience. Coordinated federal, state, and local action is the coalition’s mantra to meet the moment.
The Middle East’s First Five-Star Train to Make Maiden Voyage in 2026
By Sofia Celeste — October 27, 2025
Saudi Arabia unveiled a mock-up of the Dream of the Desert luxury train in Riyadh, with its inaugural run slated for late 2026 along 808 miles of track. Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman with 33 suites, a Majlis lounge, and fine dining, the train underscores the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 tourism ambitions. Curated one- and two-night itineraries aim to spotlight landscapes and cultural heritage previously out of reach for most travelers.
Tourists Kicked Out Of Japanese Restaurant Over “Revealing” Sports Attire, Sparking Heated Debate
By Marina Urman — October 27, 2025
A pair of Chinese tourists say they were expelled from a Kobe restaurant over “too revealing” sportswear, igniting allegations of discrimination and a flood of negative reviews citing similar experiences. The incident touches on deeper China–Japan tensions and the realities of cross-cultural dining norms during a tourism surge. It’s a reminder that hospitality, perception, and etiquette intersect powerfully in global travel.
‘CLEAR’ FALL IN GLOBAL GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS EXPECTED FOR THE FIRST TIME
By Victoria Seabrook — October 28, 2025
The UN’s climate chief says a “clear” global fall in greenhouse gas emissions is finally in sight, with new pledges from major economies pointing to a roughly 10% drop by 2035 versus 2019. Rapid growth in wind and solar—now outpacing coal in electricity generation—underpins the shift, though the pace remains far short of the 60% cut needed to align with 1.5°C. COP30 will need to convert momentum into concrete, accelerated action.
Pope Leo to pray at tomb of St. Charbel during first apostolic journey to Turkey, Lebanon
By Victoria Cardiel — October 27, 2025
Pope Leo XIV’s first apostolic trip (Nov. 27–Dec. 2) will mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and include visits to Istanbul landmarks and an ecumenical gathering in İznik. In Lebanon, the pope will pray at St. Charbel’s tomb, meet faith leaders, and conclude with Mass on the Beirut Waterfront. The itinerary emphasizes Christian unity, interfaith dialogue, and solidarity with a nation still healing from crisis.
Klarna to Launch Global Subscription Membership Program
By PYMNTS — October 27, 2025
Klarna is rolling out two global membership tiers with cash back, travel insurance, lounge access (Max), and other lifestyle perks—positioning itself closer to a full digital bank. Premium is priced at €17.99/month with 0.5% cash back; Max at €44.99/month with 1% cash back and LoungeKey access. The move builds on the U.S. success of Klarna Plus and aims to rival premium credit-card benefits without traditional credit-based rewards.
AIRBNB WANTS TO PREVENT HALLOWEEN PARTIES IN THE U.S. AND CANADA
By Samantha Subin — October 27, 2025
Airbnb is reactivating its anti-party technology for Halloween, blocking higher-risk bookings based on factors like stay length, distance, property type, and timing. The company says party reports are down 50% since its 2020 ban (made permanent in 2022), with tens of thousands of Halloween bookings prevented last year in North America. Violators face suspensions or bans, as Airbnb continues prioritizing community safety.
