The Places Where We Go Travel Newsletter - May 18, 2026
Happy National No Dirty Dishes Day from the USA, where celebrating this occasion means you get to eat out or order in to avoid doing any dishes today. As we've been eating on paper plates during the last 8 weeks of construction at the house, we will skip the day and opt to use the new dishwasher and sink as we enjoy what we've been missing since the end of March - delicious home-cooked meals.
The construction crew cleaned up their tools a few days ago. While they did a fantastic job, it still looks like a bomb went off in the house, as everything is everywhere. Now starts the process of putting everything back in its place. Julie thinks it will go quicker than my estimate of the end of August to be back where we need to be.
It feels like we're maybe one to two weeks away from resuming production on our YouTube videos and Podcast. Fingers crossed there.
In the USA, we have a three-day weekend coming up. Hopefully, most of you will find something enjoyable to do. We most likely have a date with painting supplies in a second bedroom (we finished one this weekend), and then we'll get ready for camping with friends during the first week of June.
Travel in the U.S. became significantly more expensive in April, according to the latest Travel Price Index (TPI), which rose 7.8% year over year—more than double the rate of overall inflation.
The increase was driven largely by soaring fuel costs tied to ongoing instability in the Middle East, with gasoline prices climbing above $4.50 per gallon nationally. Airfares jumped 20.7%, marking the steepest annual increase since the post-pandemic rebound, while hotel prices also turned upward after earlier declines this year.
For travelers, the report signals higher transportation and lodging costs heading into the busy summer travel season, even as restaurant and recreation prices remain relatively stable.
Memorial Day weekend is shaping up to be one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with AAA forecasting about 45 million Americans taking trips of 50 miles or more. Most travelers will drive, while millions more will fly or take cruises, trains, or buses. Popular U.S. destinations include Orlando, Seattle, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco, Anchorage, Chicago, Denver, and Boston, while top international picks include Rome, Vancouver, Paris, London, and Athens. For travelers hitting the road, INRIX expects the worst congestion on Thursday and Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., as well as on Monday afternoon, making early departures—or later evening travel—a smart strategy.
Yosemite National Park is gearing up for a busy summer season with all front-country campgrounds open, most High Sierra Camps returning, and several trails and climbing areas reopening to visitors.
Tioga Road opened May 15, its earliest opening in 16 years, giving travelers earlier access to Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite’s high country, while Glacier Point Road is already open for sweeping valley views and high-elevation hikes. Half Dome hiking also began on May 15, with daily lottery permits available two days in advance. Visitors should plan ahead, reserve permits and campground spots on Recreation.gov, expect weekend traffic, and consider arriving early, visiting midweek, or exploring beyond Yosemite Valley.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument has officially been certified as a Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International, recognizing the monument’s exceptionally clear night skies and commitment to responsible lighting practices. Located in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, the park now joins more than 400 protected dark sky destinations worldwide.
The designation is expected to expand astronomy-focused visitor experiences and nighttime interpretive programs, giving travelers even more reasons to explore the monument after sunset. Park officials also announced plans for a dark sky celebration in winter 2027, highlighting the growing appeal of astrotourism in America’s national parks.
United Airlines is opening a new gateway to northern Japan with seasonal nonstop flights from San Francisco to Sapporo beginning December 11. The three-times-weekly service will be the first direct route between the continental U.S. and Sapporo, making it easier for travelers to reach Hokkaido’s famous ski slopes, winter scenery, ramen, and fresh seafood. United is also adding daily Chicago–Tokyo Narita flights starting October 24, expanding options for travelers planning Japan and broader Asia itineraries.
United Airlines is returning to Venezuela with daily nonstop flights between Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Caracas beginning August 11, 2026, with U.S.-bound service starting August 12. The route, operated on Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, restores a connection United last flew in 2017 and follows American Airlines’ recent return between Miami and Caracas. For travelers, the new service means more options for visiting friends and family, stronger business links between two major oil regions, and renewed air access between the U.S. and Venezuela.
The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans not to travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, crime, kidnapping, terrorism, landmines, and severe limits on medical care.
The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended operations in April 2023, meaning routine and emergency consular services are not available inside Sudan.
For travelers, the message is clear: avoid Sudan entirely, and U.S. citizens already there are urged to leave only if they can do so safely and with a plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
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Why Visit? Southampton, UK is a charming coastal city known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, enjoy scenic walks along the waterfront, and indulge in delicious seafood cuisine.
Top Things To Do:
The SeaCity Museum: A must-see for history buffs, this museum offers interactive exhibits that showcase Southampton's role in the Titanic story.
The New Forest National Park: A beautiful natural escape from the city, featuring picturesque hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
Southampton Old Town: Stroll through this quaint district to admire medieval architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.
Travel Tip: For the best experience in Southampton, plan your visit during summer or early fall when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
We’re big on planning travel, typically six months in advance. With an eye on November 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
Christmas Markets in Germany — Many of Germany’s famous Christmas markets begin opening in late November, offering festive foods, handmade crafts, and holiday atmosphere.
Dickens Fair, San Francisco — This immersive Victorian-themed holiday festival recreates 19th-century London with costumes, performances, and festive shopping. It is typically held at the Cow Palace just south of San Francisco in Daly City, California. (November 21 through December 20, 2026)
Guy Fawkes Night, UK — Held every November 5, this British tradition features bonfires and spectacular fireworks commemorating the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
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