A month ago, things were not looking good for US World Cup travel. A rather depressing report from the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) showed hotel bookings were sluggish, with 80 per cent of respondents in host cities reporting they were tracking below initial forecasts, thanks to international travel barriers, rising costs and Fifa cancelling block bookings.
It was not all doom and gloom, however. The AHLA suggested there was still a “meaningful opportunity ahead”. And if there is a surefire way to fill hotel rooms – not to mention sell endless pitchers of beer and barbecue platters – it is through 39 days of world-class football in some of North America’s liveliest cities.
The US, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, is expecting five million international visitors over the next six weeks. Matches will be held not only in tourist hubs such as New York, Los Angeles and Miami, but also in often-overlooked destinations including Atlanta and Kansas City. It is an unrivalled opportunity to showcase the many charms of cities so often missed off the international tourist trail.
Beyond the football stadiums, Atlanta boasts the Beltline, a 22-mile corridor lined with street art, bars, restaurants and parks, as well as the excellent National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the neighbourhood where Martin Luther King Jr spent his boyhood years, and vintage shopping in Little Five Points. In Kansas City, visitors can enjoy some of the country’s finest jazz in the 18th & Vine district, alongside exhibitions at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, both of which are free to enter.
And never has the promotion of US tourism been more sorely needed. Analysis of National Travel and Tourism Office data last month showed that four million fewer foreign visitors entered the US in 2025 than in 2024. Immigration crackdowns, visa restrictions and social media screenings at the border appear to have deterred international travellers.
In its report, the AHLA added that, to fully realise the “meaningful opportunity”, the US and Fifa needed to ensure “a welcoming and seamless experience” for international visitors attending the World Cup.
However, after months of reports about extortionate ticket prices and soaring transport costs, things have not improved much this week.
We have heard how Scotland fans had their travel permits revoked without explanation just days before the first matches, while Iran says its entire ticket allocation has been cancelled and members of the national team are encountering visa issues. Perhaps most shockingly, Somali referee Omar Artan – who was set to make history as the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup – was denied entry at the border in Miami, while Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for several hours upon arrival in Chicago. “Welcoming” and “seamless” are perhaps not the words that spring to mind.
At its best, football breaks down barriers and brings people together across borders. A tournament like this should be an opportunity to showcase the very best of the United States to prospective travellers. What a shame it would be not to deliver.
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Travellers warned of six-hour entry-exit system lines
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UK airport to close for good
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Six-star luxury cruise ship to dock in London
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Overhead bins could be locked during flights
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Our writers have scaled Toronto towers and ridden the backcountry of Banff to find the best parts of Canada.
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Claire Boobbyer discovers a Suffolk town with a beautiful waterfront, music venues and quirky independent shops.
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Stepping away from the tourist hotspots, Amelia Neath visits Passy to capture the French capital from a different angle.
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I first visited Guadalajara when I was 19, winding my way down Mexico’s Pacific coast on a bus journey that took me to Acapulco, Oaxaca and San Cristóbal de las Casas. Back then, my experience of the city passed in a thrilling blur of tequila, tacos and mariachi music – and a wonderful experience it was.
When I returned recently and took things at a slower pace, however, I found myself entranced by Guadalajara Cathedral and its striking neo-Gothic towers as I strolled across Plaza de la Liberación. I spent a pleasant afternoon sipping Bohemia Pilsner in JardÃn Hidalgo in San Pedro Tlaquepaque, and another day exploring the neighbourhoods of Zapopan. An hour-long cab ride took me to the colourful lakeside town of Chapala, where I watched the Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flyers), an ancient ceremony in which men climb a 30m pole before swinging from it on ropes in a breathtaking aerial display.
With Guadalajara preparing to host four World Cup matches, Cristina Alonso shared her passion for the city in Independent Travel this week. It is a destination that is often overlooked in favour of the more fashionable Mexico City, where digital nomads have flocked in their droves.
That is not to say the run-up to the World Cup has been an easy ride for Guadalajara. The city found itself in the spotlight earlier this year after violent clashes broke out following reports of the killing of cartel boss Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho”. It was a blow to Guadalajara’s image as a tourist destination.
There are cities in Mexico that I would avoid, but Guadalajara is not one of them. Provided travellers take sensible precautions, I am in full agreement with Cristina that Mexico’s “second city” makes an excellent weekend break.
Read Cristina’s article on Guadalajara
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Would you rather holiday in Mexico or Canada?
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With all eyes on North America as the Fifa World Cup 2026 kicks off across Mexico, the US and Canada, this week I want to know where you’d rather go for a holiday. Do Canada’s Rockies, prairies and great glacial lakes call? Or are Mexico’s beaches, cuisine and ancient Mayan ruins just too tempting? Vote by selecting the buttons above.
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Last week I asked whether you'll be heading to the airport extra early to avoid potential disruption from the EU's new Entry/Exit System, after Wizz Air warned passengers to arrive three hours before departure. Most of you weren't willing to risk cutting it fine, with only 16 per cent saying they wouldn't get to the airport that early.
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Why you shouldn’t touch tomatoes in Italy
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A couple of weeks ago we reported on the US tourist who went as far as taking an Italian hotel to court after it refused to serve her tap water in the restaurant. The Supreme Court ruled in favour of the hotel, but this case got us talking on the desk about the faux pas that are easily made by tourists abroad. For example, it’s not rare for a waiter to baulk at the request for tap water in Italy – although it is generally safe to drink, tap water in Italy is often full of minerals and can have quite a strong taste, so Italians tend to consume bottled water or use water softeners or other filtration systems.
Travel writer Elizabeth Heath is from the United States, but has spent the past 17 years living in Italy and she shared the gaffes that can easily befall an unsuspecting tourist. Next time you’re on holiday in Italy, make sure you don’t order a cappuccino after 11am, sprinkle cheese on your seafood pasta, or touch the produce at a local market. And – while it should probably go without saying – no matter how warm it is, please don’t be tempted to strip off and take a dip in the Trevi Fountain.
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Is it safe to travel to South Africa?
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“Be aware, but not afraid.” This is the advice given by JD van Zyl, founder of tour operator The Travel Cafe, when Independent Travel spoke with him about visiting South Africa. Amelia Neath took an in-depth look at how safe it is to travel to a country that is immensely popular with tourists despite having one of the highest crime rates in the world. She dug into the data and spoke to local guides and security experts about the risks travellers face – and the practical steps visitors can take to stay safe while making the most of their trip.
I am in full agreement with Mr van Zyl when he describes South Africa as “one of the most beautiful, diverse and enriching destinations on Earth”, while acknowledging that there are complexities travellers need to be aware of. He told Amelia: “Be aware of surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar urban areas. Use reputable transport providers. Ask locals or accommodation staff for area-specific advice.”
That final point is particularly important, and one echoed by tour guide Dominic Chadbon. As he put it: “This is a destination where travellers need to hand over to locals.” In a country as vast and varied as South Africa, local knowledge can be invaluable – not only for staying safe, but also for getting beneath the surface and experiencing the destination at its best.
I found such advice to be invaluable when I travelled to Johannesburg last spring and spent a day in Soweto. Despite its reputation for violence and poverty, by visiting the township with a tour company staffed by those who had grown up in the area, I felt confident that the correct precautions were being taken, informed by local knowledge. At the same time I was able to see a side to Johannesburg that not many tourists get to experience – and gain a greater understanding of what makes this city, and country overall, so special.
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As someone who spends time on the coast throughout the year, a changing robe is one of the hardest-working pieces of outdoor kit I own – and the Saltrock changing robe is the one I reach for most often. Its cosy fleece lining and warm pockets make all the difference after an outdoor adventure, whether you’re stepping out of the sea after a swim, drying off after paddleboarding, or warming up following a blustery coastal walk.
If you’re planning seaside strolls this summer, comfortable footwear is equally important. Our tester described these walking sandals as “ridiculously comfortable”, and they’re currently reduced to under £50. And if your beachwear needs an update, John Lewis has discounts across a range of men’s and women’s swimwear, making it a great time to refresh your holiday wardrobe. While you’re at it, consider swapping out thick winter essentials for lighter seasonal staples – including breathable summer socks that will keep your feet comfortable on warmer days.
Summer beauty and skincare deserve just as much attention. If you’re looking to add a sun-kissed glow without relying on the weather, our beauty experts have tested the best face tanners for a holiday-rivalling glow. Daily sun protection is equally essential, and one standout favourite of mine is CeraVe’s dry touch face sunscreen, which is currently discounted at Amazon. For full-body coverage, I recommend Boots soltan suncare spray. It’s lightweight, reliable, and currently available for less than £6 – proof that effective sun protection doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.
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Dreaming of the ocean? Enjoy a Europe adventure with Celebrity Cruises, with at least 60% off your 2nd guest and up to £1,000 savings per room. Choose from a range of itineraries and relax onboard Celebrity’s award-winning ships. Find out more.
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Relax at the highly rated Pine Lake Resort in Lancashire, set on the edge of the Lake District.
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We’ve spotted some great discounts on holidays to Barbados with Virgin Atlantic – plenty of reason to treat yourself!
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Save on your summer getaway with Village Hotels. Book within 7 days of arrival and enjoy great value across a range of locations.
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Take out an Independent Premium subscription and unlock expert travel analysis, insider tips and the best deals to help you make the most of every trip.
Join now with our introductory offer: just £1 for 7 months
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