The cruise industry has rebounded strongly in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers and shaking off its negative reputation. With growing interest across generations, cruise lines are exploring innovative ways to extend onboard experiences, catering to evolving travel preferences. Virgin Voyages has now joined the trend by launching an Unlimited Cruise Pass, allowing travelers to sail anywhere the brand operates for an entire year.

Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys has announced the inaugural itineraries for its third ship, Explora III, set to debut in the summer of 2026. This highly anticipated vessel will explore western and northern Europe, including scenic voyages to Iceland and Greenland, before heading to North America and the Caribbean for its fall and winter seasons.

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland's iconic geothermal spa, has closed temporarily following the eruption of a nearby volcano on November 20, located near Reykjavik. This marks the volcano's 10th eruption in three years, underscoring the region's heightened volcanic activity.

As a precaution, the Blue Lagoon has evacuated all visitors and suspended operations at its facilities. The closure is expected to remain in effect until at least November 24, at which point the situation will be reassessed.

ROME — For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Roman Colosseum will host gladiator fights — albeit staged — under a $1.5 million sponsorship deal with Airbnb. The initiative, announced Wednesday, aims to promote “a more conscious tourism” while sparking debate about the impact of short-term rental platforms on heritage sites and local communities.

Last month, Icelandair announced new codeshare agreements with Atlantic Airways and Air Greenland at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, aimed at enhancing connectivity across the North Atlantic region. This development will allow passengers to explore destinations in Greenland and the Faroe Islands seamlessly through Icelandair’s hub at Keflavik International Airport.

Denmark has been selected to host the prestigious MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for the Nordic Countries in both 2025 and 2026, further solidifying its place as a global culinary destination. The 2025 ceremony is set for June 16 at the Anneberg Kulturpark in Odsherred, while the 2026 event will be hosted at Copenhagen's iconic Tivoli Gardens.