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⛽ Gas Prices Fall, Cruises Go Adults-Only & Weekly Travel News Roundup
Published about 2 months ago • 7 min read
The Places Where We Go Travel Newsletter - January 12, 2026
Happy Monday on this National Hot Tea Day and pre-Martin Luther King three-day weekend in the USA. This week, we're putting away the last of the Christmas decorations at our house and getting the calendar filled with spring travel destinations.
The national average for a gallon of gas has dropped to just $2.81—the lowest price we've seen since March 2021! Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway, it’s the perfect time to explore. While folks in Hawaii and California are still seeing prices over $4, those of you driving through the heartland—specifically Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Iowa—can fill up for well under $2.40.
A new study from ZHAW Zurich University reveals a game-changer for your travel budget: stick to the tracks! While budget airlines might tempt solo backpackers with rock-bottom base fares, the research shows that once you add luggage and kids to the mix, trains are often the clear financial winner. In fact, for family trips, flying can cost more than twice as much as a rail journey on many cross-border routes. So, before you book that flight to Paris or Vienna, double-check the train fares—you might save big while enjoying the scenic route!
If you’re gearing up for a National Park road trip, make sure your "America the Beautiful" pass stays pristine.
The Department of the Interior has issued updated internal guidance to staff for 2026, clarifying that placing stickers or other coverings on your annual pass could technically invalidate it.
While many travelers have been using creative stickers to cover specific images on the card, officials warn that this counts as "altering" the pass and can obscure necessary security features.
To ensure seamless entry to your next outdoor escape, keep those passes sticker-free so you don't risk having to buy a replacement at the gate!
Starting June 7, 2026, Zion National Park is implementing new size restrictions for vehicles on the historic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway. To protect the historic tunnels and bridges—and keep everyone safe—vehicles over 35 feet 9 inches long or 50,000 pounds will no longer be allowed on this scenic 10.7-mile stretch. If you're driving a large RV or towing a trailer, check your dimensions and plan for alternative routes, such as the South Entrance, to avoid being turned away.
Oceania Cruises has announced a major shift to become an adults-only cruise line.
Starting January 7, 2026, all new reservations will be exclusively for guests aged 18 and over, creating the sophisticated, unhurried atmosphere that so many travelers have been asking for.
Don't worry if you've already booked a family trip—all existing reservations with travelers under 18 made before this date will still be fully honored.
If you’re planning a European getaway soon, you’ll want to arrive at the airport a little earlier than usual. The EU has officially launched the next phase of its Entry/Exit System (EES), meaning tighter biometric checks—such as fingerprints and facial scans—are now required for at least 35% of travelers entering from outside the EU.
While this new technology aims to modernize travel, it’s currently causing longer processing times at major hubs, including airports in France, Germany, and Spain. So, pack your patience along with your passport, double-check your connection times, and get ready to explore, knowing you’re prepared for the new digital border experience!
Starting February 25, 2026, visitors from the United States, Canada, France, and over 80 other countries will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK. This new digital requirement costs just £16 and is valid for two years—or until your passport expires—giving you plenty of freedom for multiple adventures. It’s designed to make your arrival smoother and faster, so be sure to fill it out online or via the UK ETA app before you fly to ensure a seamless start to your British getaway!
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Belarus, citing significant risks including arbitrary enforcement of laws, potential detention, and the risk of being drafted into military service for dual citizens.
Due to the closure of the U.S. Embassy in Minsk, the government’s ability to assist U.S. citizens is severely limited. Travelers should be aware that electronic devices may be monitored.
With commercial flights restricted and border crossings subject to sudden closure, officials strongly urge all U.S. citizens currently in Belarus to depart immediately and advise against any planned travel to the region.
Your Adventure Agenda - Travel Tips
2026 Travel Resolutions
Organize Travel Photos & Videos: Use a simple monthly routine to back up your best shots into clearly labeled cloud albums so you can quickly find and share trip memories all year long.
Pack Lighter: Commit to a “carry-on only” mindset by choosing versatile, mix-and-match outfits and tracking what you never use so you bring less on each future trip.
Eat Healthy During Travel: Plan ahead by packing portioned nuts, protein bars, and collapsible containers so it is easier to skip impulse junk food at airports and rest stops.
Organize Loyalty Program Numbers, Balances and Passwords: Create a single secure digital dashboard where you store airline, hotel, and credit card rewards so you never miss out on points, perks, or free nights.
Plan Activities Out Of The Comfort Zone: Add at least one stretch activity to every itinerary—like a local cooking class, guided hike, or small-group tour—to make each trip more memorable and growth-focused.
Prioritize Travel: Block travel time on your calendar at the start of the year and set up an automatic savings transfer so trips move from “someday” to scheduled.
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Featured Place - USA Pilgrimage Walks
Why Visit? Our featured travel activity for this week is to consider a USA Pilgrimage Walk in 2026. This spiritual journey allows travelers to experience historic areas while immersing themselves in the country's spiritual culture.
Walking Pilgrimage USA - a 64-mile route that connects the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, with the National Blue Army Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Great Meadows, New Jersey
Pilgrimage Tip: With the right resources, preparation can enhance safety and ease of travel, deepening the pilgrimage experience and allowing walkers to focus more on the spiritual and personal aspects of their journey.
Plan A USA Pilgrimage: Check out our blog post on USA Pilgrimages Walks for ideas to plan a spiritual travel experience in 2026. And we hope to see you on the trail for the 6th annual Serra Walking Pilgrimage in August 2026.
Planning Ahead - Top Events in Six Months
We’re big on planning travel, typically six months in advance. With an eye on July 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
Calgary Stampede — Calgary hosts a ten-day celebration of rodeo, concerts, parades, and Western culture known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.”
Independence Day (July 4) — Celebrated nationwide with fireworks, parades, and concerts, with especially famous displays in New York City, Washington, and Boston. In 2026, the USA celebrates its 250th anniversary.
Gion Matsuri – Kyoto, Japan - One of Japan’s most famous traditional festivals, Gion Matsuri runs throughout July with spectacular float processions, street food, and access to historic merchant houses in Kyoto.
Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival — Live jazz, blues, and funk fill historic venues and streets in Edinburgh, providing a relaxed prelude to the city’s August festival season.
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January 2026: We'll be exploring museums and sights throughout Los Angeles.
Spring 2026: Camping near Joshua Tree National Park.
January 2027: The NHL Winter Classic in Utah
Now is the time to start marking your calendar for your future bucket list adventures. If you have travel questions, feel free to reach out to us. You can reach us at comments@theplaceswherewego.com
Happy travels, and we hope to see you at The Places Where We Go.
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