TravelAwaits

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US Airlines Cancel Routes Between Tulum, Mexico Ahead of Winter

US Airlines Cancel Routes Between Tulum, Mexico Ahead of Winter

Planning to visit Tulum in 2026? You’ll have fewer options for flights than ever before.

Over the last two years, multiple US airlines have launched routes between the US and Tulum, a popular new spot on the Riviera Maya that’s taken off since 2010. Carriers including American, United, and Delta have laid out plans to cut thousands of flights to/from the coastal hub as early as this winter. Others, like Spirit Airlines, have entirely nixed planned routes between Tulum and US cities.

That’s a striking change of pace for an airport that only recently opened; Tulum International Airport first opened its doors in December 2023. Flights surged at the time, then many seats were left empty in 2024.

What’s behind the change? And how can travelers still get to Tulum?

Why are US airlines backing down from Tulum routes?

The decision to roll back flight routes to/from Tulum International Airport comes down to traveler numbers. Tulum has failed to woo enough fliers to stay competitive for airlines, especially budget companies like Spirit.

Most travelers prefer to fly in and out of Cancun International Airport, which is around two hours north of Tulum on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. It’s a bustling hub that’s used by travelers heading to areas like Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Playacar, and even Tulum.

That being said, airlines often adjust their routes based on actual demand compared to forecasts. In the case of Tulum, the airport hasn’t been around for two years—shifting expectations and routes is par for the course for a younger destination like Tulum. In short, the adjustment doesn’t mean that Tulum is ‘dead’—it just means that airlines are tightening their scope of service.

If you’re heading to Tulum this winter or in the coming year, you can still book direct flights from hubs like Newark, Houston, and Los Angeles.

If you want to learn more about flight routes and the status of Tulum International Airport, follow Zach Wichter, reporting for USA Today. I’ve been following his reporting on this topic for a few months now.

Where to Find Mystery Pack Vending Machines in Berlin, Where You Can Buy Someone’s Lost Mail

I’ve heard of stores that sell lost luggage… But did you know that there are now vending machines that let you purchase lost mail packages?

Unclaimed packages that can’t be delivered to their final destination can be purchased in bulk by companies that later sell them to the public at a fixed rate. Consumers purchase the package at a vending machine and cross their fingers, hoping for a high-value prize inside.

Apparently, these mystery package vending machines have become a hit in countries like Germany, and especially in cities like Berlin.

I recently saw an Instagram post where two visitors found one such mystery pack vending machine on the side of the road in Germany. They each put in around $10 and selected which package they wanted to purchase and open. Neither went home with a treasure, but it was an amusing video—and one of the most unique ways to leave a trip with a souvenir, in my opinion.

I’m not going to send anyone on a wild goose chase into the German countryside. Instead, I recommend you root out a mystery pack vending machine in a city like Berlin. The whole concept suits the city’s unique identity—and it won’t cost you much to get involved in one of the oddest new consumer trends in 2025.

Here’s where to find mystery pack vending machines in Berlin, which are managed by a company called LootPackHunters. (You might also see them called mystery boxes, secret packs, and even loot boxes. If you’ll be in Hanover, check out these vending machines from Retouromat.)

5 mystery pack vending machines in Berlin

Vending machine #1: Raw-Gelände Berlin

Address: Revaler Straße 99, 10245 Berlin

(The main image for this article shows the entry to the Raw-Gelände shopping area.) Head to the food stall Sausage Grove, then take the stairs to the right of the food stall. Once you reach the bottom floor, you should see the Mystery Pack vending machine close by. They’re painted black with neon decals.

Vending machine #2: Eastgate Center (im EG)

Address: Marzahner Promenade 1A, 12679 Berlin

Head to the lower floor, then look for a shop called Bonita. The mystery pack vending machine is located just outside the store.

Vending machine #3: A10 Center Wildau

Address: Chausseestraße 1, 15745 Wildau

Look for the store called Cecil – Street One. The mystery pack vending machine is located just outside the store.

Vending machine #4: Ring Center 2

Address: Frankfurter Allee 113-117, 10365 Berlin

Head to the lower floor at Ring Center 2, then find the Bo-Bo Q shop or the Blu Brixx shop. The vending machine is located near the escalators just outside both.

Final mystery pack vending machine #5: Gesundbrunnen Center (im UG)

Address: Badstraße 4, 13357 Berlin

Head to the underground level of Gesunbrunnen Center, then look for the Game Stop or the DM supermarket. The vending machine is located next to the escalators in front of these shops.

9 British Virgin Islands Resorts Open This Fall, From Budget to Lux

The Caribbean relies heavily on tourism, but there is an annual down season.

We’re in it right now. From late summer through late autumn, the tourist hustle on the islands dies down. The down season is driven by the back-to-school rush, along with hurricane season. From Barbados to Aruba to the Bahamas, many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators work at a minimal capacity from September through October.

Some resorts even shut down for a few months rather than keep on a bare-bones crew.

That’s not the case across the board, however. In places like the British Virgin Islands, some establishments, from large-scale resorts to mom-and-pop inns, keep their doors open. Best of all, many offer slashed room rates in order to appeal to more visitors.

If you’re looking for highly rated British Virgin Islands resorts that are open this shoulder season, start with the options listed below. They’ve been hand-selected by the British Virgin Islands tourism authority.

Best British Virgin Islands resorts open this shoulder season

Best British Virgin Islands resorts and hotels that are open this autumn

Anegada Beach Club

Located on one of Anegada’s most scenic stretches, this small beach club and hotel has just about everything you could want from a Caribbean vacation. The hotel has sixteen rooms, along with unique palapa retreats. Plus, there’s also a large pool, a kitesurfing school, and a beach bar.

Anegada Reef Hotel

Also located on Anegada, the Anegada Reef Hotel offers a simple beachside setup that includes dining options right on the beach. Plus, you’re right on the popular horseshoe reef, in case you want to snorkel or dive. Though not a luxury pick, you’ll feel spoiled by the natural wonders.

Virgin Gorda Village Hotel

If you’re traveling in a large group, you’ll have space to relax at Virgin Gorda Village. You can choose from two, three, and four-bedroom villas. The hotel also has a large outdoor pool and a full-service day spa with hairdressing offers. As an added perk, you get a free Jeep rental if you stay more than three nights.

Mango Bay Resort

This small-scale resort is designed to spoil you. The private villas are luxurious, while management is available 24/7 to serve your needs. Expect a quiet, tranquil beachside escape.

Cane Garden Bay Beach Resort

This modern and flashy new beach resort lets you unwind in style. Most rooms come with beachfront views, while the hotel’s communal spaces are decked out in a fresh but authentic Caribbean décor. Recent guests have also lauded the staff for being accessible and helpful. (When I covered this property last year, it was known as Quito’s Luxury Inn.)

Sebastian’s On the Beach

Whether you’re traveling solo or in a large group, Sebastian’s on the Beach offers a fantastic property where you can unwind for days, weeks, or even months. The grounds are tropical and well-maintained, also giving you beach access. The on-site restaurant is also popular amongst guests.

Myett’s Garden Inn

If you’re looking for a guest favorite, head to Myett’s Garden Inn. This cozy hotel is located right on the beach, offering tropical, lush views in every direction. There’s also a fantastic on-site restaurant, along with a day spa with a full suite of treatments. Come see why many families visit more than once.

The Heritage Inn

Not far from Myett’s Garden Inn is The Heritage Inn. The Heritage Inn is located on a hilltop, meaning you’ll swap out beach access for stunning island views. All suites showcase a different side of the island, letting you get a lay of the land—either from your private balcony or the large outdoor pool.

Scrub Island Resort, Spa, and Marina

Welcome to the lap of luxury. This five-star escape lets you drop off the map at the edge of a tropical paradise and is one of the most opulent British Virgin Islands resorts.

The on-site spa is acclaimed, along with the spread of private beaches at your fingertips. Whether you want to snorkel above colorful reefs or loaf around at the beachside grill or take on a catamaran adventure, there’s always something to do.

5 Lessons I Learned Renting a Car Abroad on My Recent Trip to Sicily

Planning on renting a car abroad during your next vacation? I’ve got tips based on my recent triumphs and failures.

After all, international car rentals can be a nightmare to navigate. First, you need to make sure you have the right credentials—do you need an international driver’s permit, for example? Second, you need to avoid getting hit with secret add-on fees. Third, you need to figure out which insurance coverage to go for—and avoid being overcharged, especially in Europe.

In short, renting a car abroad can quickly become expensive, and contracts often come with murky fine print.

I’ve got a few insights that will set you up for success. They’re based on my recent experience in Palermo, which was a rollercoaster of car rental trials.

After arriving at the airport, my partner and I faced a three-hour wait at the car rental desk. It didn’t look like a bad day, either; three different rental companies were splitting a single kiosk, creating an hours-long line and confusion.

Rather than lose hours of our vacation, we skipped out and went to one of the empty car rental kiosks. There, we booked a new vehicle with a company we knew and trusted.

It turned out to be a fantastic decision. One that came with a great car and a better insurance policy for a lower price. One that had us protected when a tire went flat and stranded us at our gorgeous villa rental.

Here’s what you can learn from my experience renting a car abroad. In this case, in Sicily.

5 lessons from renting a car abroad in Sicily

Catania, Sicily, Italy – September 29, 2024: The stands of car rental companies inside the Catania-Fontanarossa international airport (Getty)

Lesson #1: Know your rights when it comes to insurance, add-on fees, and more

Every country (or region, in the case of the EU) has different consumer rights when it comes to car rentals and insurance policies. The vast majority of countries require the car rental company to provide a basic insurance policy, meaning you don’t need to pay extra for a more expanded policy. (Unless you want to, of course.)

I suggest taking a fine-tooth comb to insurance policies to figure out what they cover and whether you want to pay for the coverage. Usually, that decision is based on how comfortable you feel behind the wheel and what the local driving culture is like. In Sicily, it’s not for the faint of heart.

In addition to insurance, look closely at policies for drivers under the age of 26 and fuel coverage. You might be charged an arm and a leg if you don’t refuel before returning the car. The same if you’re covering a driver who’s 25 or under.

Lesson #2: Plan your insurance around your journey

I highly suggest making that final insurance decision based on your trip’s overall vibe. Will you be covering large distances? The farther you drive, the more likely something is to go wrong. What about off-roading? If you think you might encounter backroads that aren’t paved, consider going for that boosted coverage. If local drivers are a little too crazy for your comfort, plan for that, too.

When my partner and I realized we didn’t want to wait three hours at the car rental counter, we headed to a rental kiosk without a line: Sicily by Car. We paid around $400 for a six-day rental with full insurance coverage—which would have cost us around $800 at our original rental company.

In the end, we went for full coverage because it was so cheap. It must’ve been some kind of good karma because, for the first time in my travels, I actually needed the insurance. Our rental was at a gorgeous villa in Lascaria, accessible only by winding, pot-hole-ridden roads.

We woke up one morning to realize our car had a flat tire. Thanks to our fantastic coverage, someone came to the villa and popped on our spare tire. We could have done it ourselves, but we figured we’d rely on a professional who could have it sorted in minutes. (Which they did.)

Lesson #3: Consider your options—don’t just book a familiar company

You’ll notice many American companies, from Budget to Hertz to Avis, operate internationally. You might be wooed by the familiar name, which makes sense. However, I’ve usually had better rental experiences with local companies. In this case, Sicily by Car.

Don’t book with the first familiar name you see. Do some research and look for reviews from other Americans—they’ll point out any unfair fees or issues.

Lesson #4: Research your rental center

Just like I encourage you to research the company that you’ll rent from (in the context of that specific place), I also encourage you to figure out where to rent. Some companies charge more for picking up and dropping off at airports, while a rental office in town might be much cheaper.

In the case of my trip to the Palermo Airport, a little research would have clued me and my partner into the fact that the rental kiosk where we were supposed to pick up our keys is regularly packed on weekends. For hours on end.

Lesson #5: Go with Sicily By Car if you’re in Italy—and know that Booking.com has your back

If you’re going to rent a car in Italy, I highly suggest looking into rentals from Sicily by Car. It’s the second time that I’ve rented a car from the company; both experiences have been great.

But I also want to shout out Booking.com, where we booked the original rental. We called to let them know that we needed to cancel our original rental right around the time we were supposed to pick up the keys. We explained the insanely long wait, then agreed to receive a refund that we could use for another car rental on Booking.com.

In total, we were on the phone for around 20 minutes before the entire situation was resolved, meaning we left the airport without any more fuss. That’s very impressive for a third-party booking platform, in my opinion.

Buses, Trains & Metros to Be Affected by Strikes in France Starting 9/18

Heading to France? Hopefully, you have a functional rideshare app downloaded onto your phone.

Across Europe, ongoing strikes have thrown a wrench into travel plans. London recently ended a week-long strike that affected all above-ground Tube stations. Meanwhile, Italy just ended a widespread train strike.

Then there’s France.

The French are renowned for taking their right to protest seriously. While strikes are common throughout Europe and are usually scheduled during the work week with clear goals, the French aren’t afraid to expand and broaden the reach of their strikes.

Workers’ rights, in particular, are a big deal—and the nation has been reeling since a ruling in 2023 changed the retirement age from 62 years old to 64 years old.

In fact, that’s one key reason the current strikes are amplifying: many in the country want President Emanuel Macron (the man behind the retirement age change) out of office, citing controversial pension reform. In addition to raising the retirement age, a new 2026 budget proposal also slashes social welfare spending and nixes multiple public services.

Inside the strikes in France—what do travelers need to know?

The nationwide strikes in France begin tomorrow, Thursday, September 18, and will affect rail lines, metro lines, buses, and some air networks. France’s air traffic control unions have agreed to different strike terms, meaning air travel won’t be affected.

However, Air France employees are planning to join the strike, meaning your flights with the company will likely be affected. Additionally, it’s unclear whether ground staff at the airports will join the strike—and ground crew are responsible for things like transporting luggage.

The strike isn’t only specific to transit unions, either. It’s part of a mass strike campaign that’s been launched by grassroots groups and political parties alike, and could amass around 400,000 protesters throughout major hubs. Along with transit workers, unions from other sectors (from medicine to education) will also join.

That means one thing: protesters could block roads that take you to and from your destination, including the airport, assuming your flight leaves on time.

If you’re traveling in France during the nationwide protests, the French Civil Aviation Authority recommends checking your flight status before going to the airport. Additionally, try to plan your day’s itinerary with as much walking in mind. Rideshares and taxis might also be unavailable due to rises in demand and roadblocks.

If you’re staying at a hotel, I highly suggest speaking with the concierge daily to learn about the latest updates and recommendations.