Travel Advisories, Overtourism and Declining US Travel: Top Destination News From April

by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Tue April 29, 2025

April saw some big news from destinations around the world: new travel advisories and tourist taxes are being issued, cities and countries are considering new ways to combat overtourism and we’re beginning to see more about Trump’s travel impact as the months progress and his trade war worsens.

Check out the biggest news about destinations that you might have missed this month right here, and click the links below to read the full stories.

Travel Advisories & New Entry Requirements

In early April, the U.S. State Department updated its information for The Bahamas, including more info on why the popular Caribbean island destination still has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution designation, including violent crime and differing safety standards in boating and urges caution for travelers heading to beaches.

Additionally, more countries also updated their own travel advisories for transgender travelers entering the United States after rising reports of transgender travelers being turned away by border officials after Trump’s pronouncement that the U.S. recognizes only two genders. The countries include Ireland, Portugal, Denmark and Finland.

Travelers heading to the Mexican Caribbean this year will have to pay a tourist tax, called VISITAX, which began in 2021 but has not been widely enforced until this year. Those visiting Quintana Roo will be required to pay just over $17 to visit the state and its popular destinations.

The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda also recently launched a new electronic entry system for visitors entering and leaving the destination. Called ArriveAntigua, it uses a QR-code system to speed up the customs process.

Trump’s Travel Impact

The Trump Administration’s economic and border plans have been impacting travel to the United States, and it’s made some big headlines this month.

The Administration’s worsening trade war is sparking fears of recession and leading many to question the future of the global tourism industry, and in particular, the future of the domestic tourism industry.

A new report analyzing hotel performance during the first three months of the year found that 53 percent of U.S. hotel markets are reporting declines in hotel performance, which the report attributed to federal policy creating economic uncertainty and spurring some travelers, like Canadians, to stay away.

Eight Canadian and American tourism organizations have formed the Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition in response to the Administration’s impact on cross-border tourism. USTOA, the Adventure Travel Trade Association and the Canadian Association of Tour Operators are all members.

When asked about Trump’s impact on the travel industry within the United States, Trump said, "It's not a big deal," citing nationalism as a potential reason for the fall in international visitation.

Later in April, we reported that a senior DOGE official now has control over the Department of the Interior due to an order by Secretary Burgum, effectively ceding his control over to Tyler Hassen of DOGE. It’s an issue which has legal challenges, as he wasn’t appointed by Congress as the Constitution stipulates. Nonetheless, he now oversees the NPS, which may have an impact on how the parks are staffed and operate during the foreseeable future.

Overtourism Measures Around the World

The Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, Spain.

Each month, we cover news about how destinations are getting creative in combating overtourism, from new legislation to tourist taxes and more.

Barcelona officials are creating a new “selfie zone” at the popular La Sagrada Familia to appease locals, who say tourists clog pedestrian walkways and crowd the iconic basilica, making it challenging to navigate. The basilica receives 4.7 million visitors annually.

Norway is the latest country to propose a tourist tax. The government is proposing a three percent tax on overnight stays of all kinds, including short-term rentals, to help heavily visited destinations cope with high numbers of visitors. The bill could be enacted as soon as this summer. Funds generated would support tourism measures, including public restrooms, waste management and improved signage.

Additionally, Venice has once again implemented its day-tripper tax for travelers heading into the beleaguered city without a night’s stay. Day trippers will have to pay the tax for 54 days, more than last year. Those who enter the city last-minute will also be required to pay double.

Tourism Board and DMO News

The Jamaica Tourist Board was founded on April 1, 1955, and it celebrated its milestone 70th anniversary this month with an awards gala, commemorative church service and other events across the island. Jamaica has long been considered one of the most popular and recognizable Caribbean destinations, and it’s largely thanks to the JTB.

The Hawai’i Tourism Authority announced some leadership changes in early April. Its Interim President & CEO, Daniel Nāhoʻopiʻi, announced his departure for a career change, while Board Chair Mufi Hannemann stepped down from his role due to new allegations about misusing his authority.

A new President and CEO will be elected in the next few months, while board member Todd Apo succeeded Hannemann as Board Chair.

Lastly, Greater Palm Springs has become the fifth destination worldwide to achieve the special Certified Autism Destination designation from the IBCCES, including Visit Palm Springs. The designation ensures there are multiple accommodations, attractions and experiences that are prepared to welcome travelers with autism.

Curious to learn more about how the travel industry is becoming more accessible for travelers with autism? Check out our new feature on the topic.

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