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Paris may well be Europe’s most sought-after destination, home to a plethora of iconic landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and its adjacent Champs-Élysées, Montmartre with the buskers and cobbled lanes… 

Do we really have to go through the list again?

There are many reasons why we love Paris, from the romantic cafe culture to the elegant architecture, but there are also many reasons why it can get on our nerves at times.

Crowds, hectic traffic, beret-clad Instagrammers whose sole purpose in life seems to be to take selfies by hand be Seine, and oh, the staggeringly high prices for accommodation…

But hey, it’s not like Paris alone is fully representative of French culture.

If you’re flying all this way for the beautiful sights, the Old World allure, and delicious cuisine, you should make sure you try Lyon next:

Could Lyon Be The Next Paris?

One of the oldest cities in France, founded as early as the Roman period, and boasting cultural wealth like no other, Lyon is perhaps the best-equipped French city to rival the capital in terms of beautiful sights.

Its Old Town, locally known as Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering an area of 427 hectares, 4 districts, and comprising over 2,000 years of a fascinating history—it’s also one of France’s most landmark-packed downtown areas.

It is split between three main areas: the medieval quarter, or Old Lyon, proper, the Croix-Rousse, and the hilly Fourvière.

Old Lyon is where you will find all of the city’s most notable edifices from the Middle Ages, including the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, a Gothic ensemble best known for its vaulted ceilings and astronomical clock that gives Prague’s a run for its money.

Getting lost in its uphill, narrow cobbled streets, you will find Renaissance-era villas and hidden courtyards, and the higher you go, the more stunning is the view of the terracotta roofs and church spires at your feet

Croix-Rousse is the heart of Bohemian Lyon and an equally beautiful maze-like grid of stone-paved streets, just about wide enough for cars to drive slowly by.

It lines the Saône, a river cutting through the heart of Lyon, much like the Seine in Paris, and the promenade is particularly pleasant to stroll, as you admire the ornate architecture of the riverfront buildings.

Going up Croix-Rousse, you’ll see that its pathways are lined with bars, selling Lyon’s signature Beaujolais wines, traditional French brasseries, and bakeries where you can get fresh-out-the-oven pastries from only 1 euro—for the best croissant in town, check out Boulangerie du Palais.

For the third and final historic district, you’ll want to take the funicular, which rattles up overground rails, offering scenic vistas of the picture-perfect downtown.

Fourvière is home to the famous Notre Dame Basilica, a neo-Gothic gem often compared to Paris’ Sacre-Coeur: they’re both on a hilltop, overlooking their respective urban sprawls, and they were built around the same time.

In this area, you will also find Lyon’s very own Eiffel Tower, La Tour Métallique, a prominent feature of Des Hauteurs Park, except it even predates Eiffel’s masterpiece by three years.

If you’re wondering whether there’s anything left from Roman-era Lyon, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Fourvière has an ancient theater, built in the year 15 BC, and still hosting open-air concerts in summer.

Lyon Is Way Cheaper Than Paris!

Lyon is not only just as pretty as Paris, with several uncannily-similar attractions, it can be considerably cheaper and less crowded.

Paris has become a tourism playground in recent years, particularly after the popularity of TV shows like Emily in Paris, and the start of the beret-clad, ‘hold my giant €32 stunt croissant’ Instagrammer phenomenon.

Don’t get us wrong, it is very touristy—France remains the most visited country in the world, after all—but it’s definitely not on that Paris level of fame, for its own sake.

As we pointed out before, croissants here will cost you between €1 and €1.30, while a three-course meal in a local restaurant (let’s say you get some roasted camembert for starter, aligot for main, creme brulée for dessert, and a bottle of red wine) will cost you €38-40.

If you’re only going for the main dish and a glass of wine, then that’s a much-cheaper €18-21.

When it comes to accommodation, the average overnight rate in Lyon is a reasonable €106, or roughly $115, as per Budget Your Trip estimates.

If you’re wondering how Paris compares, that’s a wallet-wiping $326 on average.

Before we leave you, in case you’re planning a trip to France soon, don’t forget to check out this other charming medieval city only an hour away from Paris—it has a monumental Notre Dame cathedral that rivals Paris’ in beauty, it has a mind-blowing history, and prices are on the cheaper end, too.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Planning a trip to the vibrant island nation of Singapore? Awesome choice! This guide is designed to make understanding the Singapore entry requirements for Americans super easy. Forget confusing jargon and endless official documents. We’ll focus on the stuff that really matters to you as an American traveler, from what documents you need to how long you can soak up the Singaporean culture. Let’s get started and make sure your journey is smooth sailing from the get-go!

Your Passport: Your Golden Ticket

First things first, your passport is your most important travel buddy. To enter Singapore, your U.S. passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. So, if you’re planning to be in Singapore for two weeks, make sure your passport doesn’t expire for at least six months and two weeks after you arrive. It’s always a good idea to double-check the expiration date well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute panics. Also, ensure you have a few blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. You can confirm this info in the US State Department travel page for Singapore.

The Singapore Arrival Card: Must Have For American Travelers

To enter Singapore for a short tourist visit, U.S. citizens are required to complete the SG Arrival Card. This is a mandatory electronic form that you should typically submit online within three days before you arrive in Singapore. The SG Arrival Card collects essential information such as your personal details, flight information, and where you will be staying. The official platform for completing this form can be found on the website of Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). It’s important to use the official ICA website to ensure you are providing your information securely and avoiding any potential scams or unnecessary charges.

How Long Can You Stay? The 90-Day Rule

Good news for those dreaming of an extended Singaporean adventure! As a U.S. citizen traveling for tourism or social visits, you can typically stay in Singapore for up to 90 days without needing a visa. That’s plenty of time to explore the stunning Gardens by the Bay, indulge in delicious hawker center fare, and experience the city’s incredible blend of cultures. Remember, this 90-day limit is for each entry. If you’re planning to stay longer or for purposes other than tourism (like work or study), you’ll need to look into the specific visa requirements through the Singaporean Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Multiple Visits? No Problem!

The great thing is, there’s no strict limit on how many times a year you can visit Singapore as a US tourist, as long as you adhere to the 90-day limit per entry and genuinely intend to visit for tourism. Immigration officers will assess your entry each time to ensure you’re not trying to live in Singapore on tourist visas. So, feel free to plan those multiple trips to catch different festivals or explore more of Southeast Asia with Singapore as your comfortable base.

Arriving by Air: The Most Common Route

Most travelers from the U.S. will arrive in Singapore via Changi Airport, a world-renowned hub known for its efficiency and amazing amenities (hello, indoor waterfall!). Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through immigration. Be ready to present your passport and potentially answer a few questions about the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. It’s always a good idea to have your onward flight information and proof of funds to support your trip handy, although it’s not always required for short tourist visits.

Entering by Land Border: From Malaysia

While less common for direct travel from the U.S., some travelers might enter Singapore via the land border with Malaysia. This usually happens by way of the Johor-Singapore Causeway: This is the most commonly used route, a bridge connecting Johor Bahru in Malaysia to Woodlands in Singapore. The same passport and entry requirements apply as if you were arriving by air. Be prepared for potential queues at the border checkpoints, especially during peak travel times. The One Motoring government website also covers information for those entering via land by car.

Understanding the Exchange Rate: Your Dollars in Singapore

Let’s talk about money! The value of Singapore dollars (SGD) compared to US dollars (USD) changes a bit day to day. On average for every 1 US dollar, you’ll get about 1.34 Singapore dollars.

So, when you’re thinking about grabbing that tasty plate of chicken rice that costs, let’s say, 10 Singapore dollars, it will cost you roughly $7.46 in US dollars.

Just keep in mind that this is an approximate rate and can change slightly. It’s always a good idea to quickly check a reliable currency converter closer to your travel dates to get the most up-to-date exchange rate.

Other Useful Tips for American Travelers

• Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card or an international roaming plan to stay connected. Wi-Fi is widely available, but having your own data can be very convenient for navigation and staying in touch.
• Transportation: Singapore has an excellent public transportation system, including the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses. Consider getting an EZ-Link card for easy and affordable travel.
• Weather: Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and be prepared for occasional rain showers.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Singapore and is generally not expected.
• Language: English is one of the official languages and is widely spoken, so communication will be easy.

U.S. State Department Travel Advisory and Safety Tips

It’s always wise to check the latest travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State for Singapore before your trip. These advisories provide information on safety and security conditions in the destination country. As of the latest information, Singapore generally has a very low crime rate and is considered a safe country for travelers. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. For the most up-to-date advisories, please refer to the U.S. Department of State website.  

Travel Insurance: Peace of Mind for Your Journey

While Singapore is a safe and well-organized country, unexpected events can happen. That’s why considering travel insurance is a smart move. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Having this safety net can give you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your Singapore adventure. Ready to explore your travel insurance options? Get a free quote today and travel with confidence!

So there you have it! Navigating the Singapore entry requirements as an American traveler doesn’t have to be a headache. With a valid passport, an understanding of the 90-day stay limit, and the simple SG Arrival Card process, you’re well on your way to experiencing the wonders of Singapore. By staying informed through official sources and considering travel insurance for added peace of mind, you can focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories in this incredible city-state. Safe travels, and get ready for an amazing Singaporean adventure!

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2025 is the year of the Dupe. No, not dupe like you’ll fall for the ol’ three-card Monte trick; dupe as in travel alternatives.

Hard to believe it’s been years since the pandemic was declared over, but one thing has become increasingly clear to this day — travel is back.

Whether it be renowned resorts sold out night after night, having to unnecessarily check bags, or being forced to share selfies in what-should-be wide open plains of national or state parks, travelers are embracing their sense of wanderlust all the over the world, leaving the door open to discover more hidden gems.

When it comes to the U.S., one could argue Alaska is America’s least-explored state, but on the mainland, it’s gotta be West Virginia, right?

Known more for its deeply rooted history of coal mining and longstanding tales of Appalachian folklore, those who have visited West Virginia typically come out the other side shocked by how beautiful the “Mountain State” truly is ,especially being home to America’s most underrated state park.

West Virginia, Take Me…To Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Anything beats counting bottles of beer on the wall, but let’s not even pretend there’s a better road trip song than Take Me Home, Country Roads.

We’ve all belted out West Virginia’s unofficial theme song at one point or another, but rarely do we ever scope out the state itself for a nice, relaxing getaway.

Full disclosure – West Virginia has often found itself on the wrong side of headlines as numerous former coal mining hubs are nothing but ghost towns these days, leaving locals living in poverty in some cases, and holding the highest death rate for overdoses in the nation, according to the CDC.

Those very headlines, along with dark mysteries of Appalachia, have cast a shadow over the bright spots of West Virginia people have long been missing out on — one of them being Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Those who have visited absolutely love it! The park’s Google rating stands at an impressive 4.7 out of 5, with one recent guest claiming, “My family and I truly enjoyed this trip. Beautiful scenery, knowledgeable staff. Nice places to stay nearby and good places to eat. There is so much to do. Lunch was provided with our train ride. 10/10 would recommend!”.

All Aboard The Cass Scenic RailRoad!

Located in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Cass, this vast state park is home to breathtaking mountain vistas, ancient forests, and mazes of hiking trails to explore, but many opt for the a scenic train ride courtesy of Mountain Rail West Virginia, offering seasonal packages on the Cass Scenic Railroad throughout the year.

Best of all, come May, the historic locomotive is bringing back 3 routes with gorgeous views of waterfalls, lush wilderness, and rustic towns like Durbin nestled in the mountains.

These are Cass Scenic Railroad’s current excursions:

New Tygart Flyer (operating April – November) –

TLC was wrong on this one; you’ll definitely want to chase waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, a cold-cut lunch, and stunning views of High Falls of Cheat, the region’s dazzling natural wonder, along with flowing rivers, and sky-high bridges.

Waterfall excursions begin May 4, 2025.

Greenbriar Express (operating May – October) –

Aforementioned Durbin is the highlight of this route. Departing from Cass, the Greenbrier Express offers a scenic journey to one of West Virginia’s most picturesque towns exuding timeless charm with general stores, Mom & Pop eateries, all backdropped by astounding wilderness of Monongahela National Forest.

Cass Bald Knob Trip (operating May – October) –

Hope you’re not afraid of heights! This 4.5 hour trek to Bald Knob takes passengers upwards of 2,300 feet for breathtaking views of Appalachian landscapes ranging from spruce forests and staggering mountains as this is the second highest point in West Virginia.

Cass Whitaker Station (operating May – October) –

Taking 2 hours round-trip, guests can hop aboard century-old trains and chug along scenic meadows and rolling hills, ultimately reaching Whitaker Station to deep dive into the area’s historic logging operations.

This route includes a 30 minute break to take in sweeping views of the countryside and peruse the recreated logging camp and intriguing exhibits.

Rent A Spacious Cabin

Camping isn’t for everyone. That’s why “glamping” has become more popular, but who would ever turn down a cabin in the woods?

Truthfully, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s cabins might be the best of all because they house up to 14 people comfortably with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts.

These “cabins”, described as ‘restored company houses’, were formerly quarters for loggers back in the day but now serve as truly unique stays to make your base for exploring the park or indulging in the delights of Cass’s small town charm.

Houses are available year-round and can be booked directly here with rates starting at $105 per night this spring and upwards of $180 this summer.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Well, well, well… in a time when it seems we’re seeing more airline bankruptcies than start-ups, one new U.K.-based airline is going for gold and hoping to strike it rich with a bold endeavor.

Usually, an airline starts out slow and gains a loyal fan base, but Global Airlines is already venturing ‘across the pond’ to lure in American passengers, whizzing them through the skies to one of the U.K.’s most fascinating cities.

This is news to me as I follow airlines like a hawk, hoping to scoop up a great deal no matter whose name is painted on the side.

Lucky for East Coasters, they can do so too and even have a chance (ever so slightly as it may be) to score tickets before they go live.

If adventure is pulling at your heartstrings this spring (and why wouldn’t it be?), let’s dive into everything you need to know to be one of Global Airlines’ first passengers jetting off from New York to the timeless city of Glasgow, Scotland.

A Refreshing Take On Travel: Global Airlines Sounds Promising

While it may be tempting to rack up points with your favorite airline, sometimes cheating on them works out better, and you don’t have to be discreet about it.

Global Airlines is just starting out, but don’t let that deter you. You won’t be a guinea pig here.

Obtaining FAA clearance for American skies is quite an accomplishment, so just know you’re in good hands flying Global, especially on their new fleet of Airbus A380 jumbo jets.

Plus, there’s no Netflix doc on Airbus, ya know?

Starting an airline is a gargantuan task; that’s why you tend to see more going out of business, especially with the state of the world right now, where even notoriously cheap Spirit has had trouble staying afloat when travelers are scoping out ways to save money.

I gotta say, after taking a deep dive into Global Airlines origins, I’m equally jealous as I am impressed.

Founded in 2021 by ‘renowned travel personality and serial entrepreneur’, James Asquith, has accomplished my dream by visiting196 nations, so who better to know the ins and outs of air travel?

If you believe the hype, expect Global Airlines to try to disrupt the airline industry, but hopefully not the same way Ryanair has teased with standing-room only bookings.

Geared toward customer satisfaction, Global Airlines appears to have some undisclosed tricks up their sleeve to tackle ‘long security queues, late flights, lost luggage, inedible food and constant poor customer service’, according to their official website.

Time will tell. If they want capture American travelers’ hearts, maybe offer free checked bags, amirite?

For now, we do know Global will offer standard seating of the usual Economy, Business or First Class with surely more news to come about their flight experience.

Great Scot! Fly Direct to Scotland’s Largest City

According to The Scottish Sun, Global Airlines first transatlantic flight to Glasgow will launch May 19, 2025, departing from New York (JFK) to Glasgow (GLA) at 8 am.

Global has partnered with another lesser-known airline, Hi Fly, with a “wet-lease” agreement to make this happen.

Tickets are bit tricky right now, so don’t mark your calendars just yet. If you’re wanting to be one of the first to sign up, you need to register for their presale.

You can do so by clicking here. Personally, I recommend following their Facebook page for frequent updates.

There are no other direct routes from Glasgow to the U.S.

Why Visit Glasgow?

Glasgow is a perfect balance of old-world charm and eye-popping modernization.

One street beholds some of the most astounding architecture in the U.K, and turn a corner and you’ll see modern structures rising beside centuries-old landmarks and vibrant murals illuminating what otherwise might seem like drab streets.

Despite being Scotland’s largest city, you’ll feel right at home here, which can’t be said for some of Europe’s most popular cities as overtourism has become a talking point across the continent.

It’s said that ‘People Make Glasgow’; it’s truly one of the most fun-spirited cities you’ll ever visit.

Perhaps best of all, if you’re itching to visit the U.K. but worried about blowing your budget through London, Glasgow is a lot more wallet-friendly.

For example, book a Queen Roo at trendy YOTEL Glasgow for $73. Yeah, try that in London…

If you prefer to cash/earn points, check out the Courtyard Glasgow SEC for a little more at $86, or live like royalty at a ‘castle’ at Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow for $183.

As for ordering a traditional plate of haggis – you’ve been warned!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here

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Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

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After many years of delays, it’s finally happening, my friends.

No, not the Electronic Travel Authorization, the other (equally) bureaucratic hurdle facing travelers when landing in the European Union (EU) in the near future—and this includes Americans.

The 27-country-strong block is gearing up to launch its much-postponed Entry-Exit System, commonly shortened to EES, as early as this upcoming fall, and for those of you who are still in the dark about Europe’s new plans, you better get ready for some stricter screening.

EU member states will start fingerprinting and entering your private information into their database for immigration checks from October 2025, and this is how it’s going to play out:

What Is Even An EES?

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past three years, the EU has been considering introducing an Entry-Exit System that will considerably tighten border controls, including fingerprinting all new arrivals.

This is not only to ensure the information on their passport matches their biometric data, but also to crack down on irregular migration, or even just overstayers.

As you might be aware, as a U.S. citizen, you can only be present in the border-free Schengen Zone, which comprises all 27 EU member states, plus Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, for 90 days out of any 180-day period.

In other words, if you fly to Paris, France, on May 1, 2025, and you spend 7 days exploring the City of Love and other medieval gems nearby easily-accessible with the TGV train, you will then have 83 days left to travel around the Schengen territories until October 28.

This includes countries like Spain, Italy, Croatia, Greece, and many more.

As of right now, the only way border officials have to know whether you’re within the 90/180-day rule is verifying entry and exit stamps manually.

You know where we’re going with this…

Once the EES launches, fingerprinting will make these checks way easier, as it will act as both a ‘check-in’, and ‘check-out’ device every time you cross an external European border, and any overstayers will be immediately flagged by the system.

And trust us when we say, if you don’t want to get a hefty fine, or worse, even banned from returning to the Old Continent, you should make sure you’re in compliance with the rules.

How Do We Know The EES Is Launching In October?

It seems that, following months of endless debates and back-and-forth, an agreement was reached by the EU’s Interior Ministers in Brussels last March.

In the words of the Polish Minister of the Interior, Tomasz Siemoniak, ‘October is our horizon‘ for the start date of the EES.

No official date has been set yet, but at least we have a month to work with now.

The one major roadblock is the various stages of preparedness seen across the EU: while some countries already have the technology in place and are ready to start the fingerprinting, others are nowhere near launching.

We have to remember that this will apply not only to passport, but all land and sea borders, and a number of European countries have multiple border checkpoints with non-EU, or non-Schengen states in the vicinity, that are not as well-equipped as an international airport.

For that reason, the European Commission is planning to be ‘flexible’, and allow for a phased introduction of the Entry-Exit System.

What Is The Path Ahead?

In short, European nations will have 2 options: either launch the system all at once, across all its checkpoints, or in a ‘phased manner’.

Those opting for the latter would kick off a 6-month transition period from October, and would be required to properly register 10% of incoming travelers after the first month.

For the first 60 days, they may also operate the EES without the biometric controls, i.e. the much-dreaded fingerprinting.

After 3 months, they must be ready to operate the system with all biometric functionalities, and they should finally be able to register ‘all people’ towards the end of the 6 months.

This will avoid any further delays, as it will enable European states to move at their own pace.

The wait is over, guys: get ready for some (more) border scrutiny by fall 2025.

How Will The EES Work?

If you’re wondering how exactly the EES will work, it’s simple:

You’re still required to bring a valid passport to the EU, and on top of that, it should remain valid for an additional 3 months beyond your intended date of departure.

Come October, however, once you scan your U.S. passport in an e-Gate, you will be instructed to provide your fingerprints and get photographed—this should take an additional 2-3 minutes for every traveler, and that’s considering they’re tech-savvy and don’t faff around, so beware there might be significant delays.

Once that’s done, you’re good to go, and you won’t have to do it a second time, or at least until your biometric data is stored in the EU database.

Based on what we’ve been informed previously, this might be a 2-year period if you’re not a frequent traveler, though that’s yet to be confirmed, and we’ll be sure to rectify this should it be necessary when the time comes.

As for the ETIAS, the new ‘digital visa’ applying to Americans and visa-exempt travelers, in general (or dare we say it, the other European boogeyman), you don’t have to worry about that until late 2026… at the earliest.

Worry not; we’ve got you covered, and we’ll be sure to fill you in on any updates on that front, too.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.