The Places Where We Go Travel Newsletter - December 29, 2025
Happy New Year Week as we welcome 2026 in a few days. We hope your holidays continue to be filled with joy and memorable moments.
This week, we'll take a few littles to their first NHL hockey game in Anaheim, California, as a fun way to start the week.
The U.S. Travel Price Index (TPI) shows that travel costs in late 2025 are generally decreasing, largely due to significant drops in airfare and lodging prices compared to late 2024, though food and entertainment costs are rising. We’re seeing airfares drop a massive 6.6% since September, and hotel rates are down nearly 6% compared to last year. Overall, travel is more affordable now, with lower hotel/airline costs driven by decreased demand and adjusted bookings, making it a good time to travel, despite inflation in dining out.
Death Valley National Park has officially reopened several scenic routes, including the iconic Artists Drive, North Highway, and Ubehebe Crater Road.
After flash floods deposited debris earlier this year, crews have worked hard to clear the way for your next adventure.
However, keep an eye on the forecast—significant rainfall predicted for late December could impact road conditions again, so be sure to check the latest status at nps.gov/deva before you head out!
In a recent legal win for the state, a U.S. District Judge has upheld Hawaii's new "green fee" tax, which targets short-term visitors, including cruise passengers.
This initiative, the first of its kind in the U.S., aims to raise funds specifically to protect Hawaii's unique environment and combat the impacts of climate change. While industry groups such as the Cruise Lines International Association have challenged the tax, arguing it violates the Constitution, state officials remain committed to sustainable tourism.
Oregon has completed a statewide audit of attractions, hotels, and trails, becoming the first officially “accessibility verified” state. This designation provides travelers with mobility and sensory disabilities with clearer information and sets a model for other US destinations to follow in 2026.
Get ready to pack your bags for the Golden State! 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for California, with a massive lineup of new openings and major celebrations. Whether you're a theme park fanatic or a road trip warrior, there's something new for you to explore.
Here are the top highlights coming to California in 2026:
Route 66 Centennial: The legendary highway turns 100 with retro-inspired motels and cultural installations from San Bernardino to Santa Monica.
Sports Mega-Events: The San Francisco Bay Area hosts Super Bowl LX and, along with Los Angeles, hosts the FIFA World Cup. Plus, catch a unique NASCAR race on an active military base in San Diego.
Theme Park Thrills: Universal Studios Hollywood debuts the "Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift" coaster, LEGOLAND launches the "LEGO Galacticoaster," and Disneyland continues its 70th Celebration.
New Museums & Districts: The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art opens in LA, alongside major entertainment districts such as West Harbor and OCVIBE.
Unique Stays: Check out new spots like the glamping-style Under Canvas Yosemite, the airline-themed Pan Am Hotel, and the luxurious Six Senses Napa Valley.
Starting February 1st, your Roman holiday might look a little different if the iconic Trevi Fountain is on your bucket list.
To help manage the large number of visitors and preserve this Baroque masterpiece, the city is introducing a €2 fee for tourists seeking the up-close, coin-tossing experience at the water's edge between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
While you can still admire the stunning view from the piazza above for free, this new system ensures a more organized and enjoyable visit for everyone down below.
A December luxury‑travel roundup details how Emirates has launched its new Asia Pacific Flight Pass, allowing travelers to book flexible, multi‑segment itineraries under a single ticket across destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, and Laos, which is aimed at simplifying trip planning and potentially lowering costs for regional travel in 2026.
The U.S. Department of State has just renewed its Level 2 Travel Advisory for Jordan, reminding us to exercise increased caution while exploring this historic gem.
While the overall risk level hasn't changed, they've updated the summary to keep you informed about potential terrorism concerns in specific areas such as tourist sites and transportation hubs.
If you’re dreaming of your next big getaway, the Chase Sapphire® credit cards might be your golden ticket! These cards are a top choice for travelers because they are absolutely packed with perks designed to help you explore the world for less. And it's our primary credit card.
From massive welcome bonuses to earning extra points on delicious dining and flights, these cards turn your everyday spending into memorable journeys. Whether you're eyeing a luxury hotel stay or a flight to a hidden gem, the flexibility to transfer points or boost their value makes planning your perfect itinerary a breeze—plus, you get built-in peace of mind with top-tier travel protections so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Here are the top reasons to pack a Sapphire card in your wallet:
Big Welcome Bonuses: Kickstart your adventure with huge point bonuses just for signing up.
Earn While You Explore: Rack up 2x-10x points on travel, dining, and everyday purchases.
Travel Credits Galore: Offset annual fees with statement credits for travel, hotels, and lifestyle perks.
Flexible Redemptions: Transfer points 1:1 to airline partners or get a "Points Boost" when booking through Chase.
Built-in Protection: Travel worry-free with included trip delay, lost luggage, and cancellation insurance.
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Featured Place - Copenhagen, Denmark
Why Visit?
Copenhagen is a vibrant and charming city, renowned for its distinctive blend of historic charm and contemporary design. With its picturesque canals, colorful streets, and friendly atmosphere, it's no wonder that it's often ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world.
Top Things To Do:
Tivoli Gardens: This amusement park is not just for kids - with beautiful gardens, thrilling rides, and live performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Rosenborg Castle: Take a stroll through the picturesque grounds of Rosenborg Castle, a stunning Renaissance palace and garden filled with history and beauty.
Nyhavn: A picturesque canal lined with colorful buildings, perfect for strolling and enjoying a drink or meal at one of the many outdoor cafes.
Travel Tip: A practical tip for visiting Copenhagen would be to take advantage of the city's bike-friendly culture and rent a bicycle to explore. The best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is pleasant and various outdoor events and festivals are taking place.
Plan Your Visit: Check out our blog post on Copenhagen for more ideas and tips on how to plan your trip.
Planning Ahead - Top Events in Six Months
We’re big on planning travel, typically six months in advance. With an eye on June 2026, here are some top things you can consider for your travel itinerary:
January 2026: We'll be exploring museums and sights throughout Los Angeles.
Spring 2026: Camping near Joshua Tree National Park.
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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