SpiceJet Cancels 12 New Flights, Impacting Key Domestic and International Routes Across India, Including Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Varanasi,Bengaluru and More: All You Need to Know

Many travelers were disappointed on a busy travel morning, especially those coming from Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. Last-minute flight cancellations by SpiceJet caused major disruptions in weekend travel plans for passengers—some were on their way to board and others were changing their plans just before boarding.

Here is the fully humanised list of affected flights by SpiceJet:

Ident	Type	Origin	Destination	Scheduled Departure Time
SEJ2939	DH8D	Indira Gandhi Int’l (DEL / VIDP)	Gaggal (Kangra) (DHM / VIGG)	Sat 10:55 AM IST
SEJ874	B738	Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Int’l (Ahmedabad) (AMD / VAAH)	Patna (Lok Nayak Jaya Prakash Narayan) (PAT / VEPT)	Sat 11:50 AM IST
SEJ443	B738	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Ayodhya Int’l Airport (AYJ / VEAY)	Sat 12:35 PM IST
SEJ2940	DH8D	Gaggal (Kangra) (DHM / VIGG)	Indira Gandhi Int’l (DEL / VIDP)	Sat 01:00 PM IST
SEJ329	B738	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Varanasi (VNS / VEBN)	Sat 03:05 PM IST
SEJ875	B738	Patna (PAT / VEPT)	Rajiv Gandhi Int’l (HYD / VOHS)	Sat 03:10 PM IST
SEJ876	B738	Rajiv Gandhi Int’l (HYD / VOHS)	Patna (PAT / VEPT)	Sat 06:05 PM IST
SEJ330	B738	Varanasi (VNS / VEBN)	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Sat 06:45 PM IST
SEJ877	B738	Patna (PAT / VEPT)	Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Int’l (Ahmedabad) (AMD / VAAH)	Sat 08:35 PM IST
SEJ555	B738	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Bengaluru Int’l (BLR / VOBL)	Sat 10:40 PM IST
SEJ293	B738	Ahmedabad (AMD / VAAH)	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Sat 11:50 PM IST
SEJ294	B738	Chatrapati Shivaji Int’l (BOM / VABB)	Ahmedabad (AMD / VAAH)	Sun 02:05 AM IST

What’s going on

Travel plans for many were thrown off this weekend when more than a dozen flights operated by SpiceJet were cancelled, affecting routes from key hubs across India. While the airline has not publicly detailed exactly why each flight was cancelled, recent data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) gives broader context: for domestic carriers in June 2025, technical reasons accounted for 36.97 % of cancellations, operational issues for 24.98 % and weather‑related problems for 22.4 %. 

In addition, the DGCA’s report for 2024 noted that SpiceJet had the highest cancellation rate among major Indian airlines at 1.81 %. 

These figures hint that the cancellations this weekend may stem from recurring pressures on aircraft, crew, scheduling or maintenance — all highlighted in past regulatory oversight. For instance, the DGCA had placed SpiceJet under enhanced surveillance following flight cancellations and engineering concerns. 

Passenger rights and what you can do

Passengers whose flights are cancelled have rights under Indian aviation regulation. According to the DGCA’s Passenger Charter and CAR (Civil Aviation Requirements) Section 3 — Series M — in case of cancellation, the airline must provide either an alternate flight or a full refund of the ticket. They must also provide meals/refreshments and hotel accommodation (with transfer) if the delay or disruption demands it. 

Specifically, if your flight is cancelled or delayed significantly:

• You should be given the option of a refund or re‑booking at no extra cost. 
• Compensation and assistance (meals, hotels) must be provided if you have checked‑in and then are affected by the cancellation. 
• For a cancellation or delay outside of “extraordinary circumstances” (which the airline cannot control), the obligations apply fully. 

If you’re among those impacted by this list of cancelled flights, you’re advised to contact SpiceJet’s customer‑service, keep your boarding pass and booking documents, and check your options for refund or alternate flight.

The wider picture

When flights are cancelled across multiple origin‑destination pairs like this—Delhi to Kangra, Ahmedabad to Patna, Mumbai to Ayodhya, Patna to Hyderabad and more—it doesn’t just inconvenience a passenger or two. Families miss reunions, business travellers postpone meetings, hotel bookings get wasted, and ground transport and connecting flights ripple outwards. For airports and local economies dependent on smooth travel flows, even a handful of cancellations adds up.

In the case of this weekend’s disruption, it’s not just one route that’s affected—multiple hubs and destinations are caught in the spread. When you consider data showing that technical and operational issues account for a large share of cancellations, the strain on airline reliability becomes more visible. Meanwhile, the regulator’s scrutiny of airlines like SpiceJet underscores that this is not purely one‑off.

Final thought

If you were all set on your way this morning, boarding pass in hand and weekend plans ahead, only to find that your flight is cancelled—you’re not alone. It’s a messy part of air travel, but one that is avoidable if you stay alert: check your flight status, keep alternate plans in mind, and make sure you know your rights. For those caught in this weekend’s disruption from SpiceJet, you deserve clarity, service and the refund or free re‑routing that rules guarantee. Here’s hoping that despite the turbulence in travel plans, your next trip takes off smoothly and on time.

SOURCE- DIFFERENT AIRPORTS AND FLIGHTAWARE

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China Express Cancels 20 New Flights Across Key Domestic Routes in China, Affecting Travelers from Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, and More

A significant number of flights operated by China Express Airlines (HXA) have been cancelled across several domestic routes in China. These disruptions span Western and Central China and are affecting travellers on important regional connections. The affected routes include services to and from airports such as Korla, Kashgar, Xi’an, Hotan, Aksu, and Ulanqab.

Here is a detailed list of the cancelled flights:

Flight Number	Aircraft Type	Origin	Destination	Scheduled Departure Time
HXA4754	909	Ningbo Lishe Int’l (NGB / ZSNB)	Jingzhou Shashi Airport (SHS / ZHJZ)	Thu 12:55 PM CST
HXA2824	A321	Ulanqab (UCB / ZBUC)	Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)	Thu 01:10 PM CST
HXA2675	CRJ9	Korla (KRL / ZWKL)	Kashgar (KHG / ZWSH)	Thu 04:25 PM CST
HXA4363	CRJ9	Aksu (AKU / ZWAK)	Shache Airport (QSZ / ZWSC)	Thu 05:35 PM CST
HXA4189	CRJ9	Korla (KRL / ZWKL)	Bole Alashankou (BPL / ZWBL)	Thu 05:40 PM CST
HXA2843	A321	Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)	Xishuangbanna Gasa (JHG / ZPJH)	Thu 05:55 PM CST
HXA2675	CRJ9	Kashgar (KHG / ZWSH)	Hotan (HTN / ZWTN)	Thu 07:05 PM CST
HXA4363	CRJ9	Shache Airport (QSZ / ZWSC)	Hotan (HTN / ZWTN)	Thu 07:12 PM CST
HXA4338	CRJ9	Hami (HMI / ZWHM)	Yinchuan Helanshan (INC / ZLIC)	Thu 07:30 PM CST
HXA4189	CRJ9	Bole Alashankou (BPL / ZWBL)	Tacheng (TCG / ZWTC)	Thu 07:44 PM CST
HXA4364	CRJ9	Hotan (HTN / ZWTN)	Shache Airport (QSZ / ZWSC)	Thu 08:58 PM CST
HXA4918	CRJ9	Ulanqab (UCB / ZBUC)	Chongqing Jiangbei Int’l (CKG / ZUCK)	Thu 09:00 PM CST
HXA2676	CRJ9	Hotan (HTN / ZWTN)	Kashgar (KHG / ZWSH)	Thu 09:05 PM CST
HXA4190	CRJ9	Tacheng (TCG / ZWTC)	Bole Alashankou (BPL / ZWBL)	Thu 09:25 PM CST
HXA2844	A321	Xishuangbanna Gasa (JHG / ZPJH)	Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)	Thu 09:25 PM CST
HXA4364	CRJ9	Shache Airport (QSZ / ZWSC)	Aksu (AKU / ZWAK)	Thu 10:30 PM CST
HXA4338	CRJ9	Yinchuan Helanshan (INC / ZLIC)	Chongqing Jiangbei Int’l (CKG / ZUCK)	Thu 10:30 PM CST
HXA4190	CRJ9	Bole Alashankou (BPL / ZWBL)	Korla (KRL / ZWKL)	Thu 11:05 PM CST
HXA2676	CRJ9	Kashgar (KHG / ZWSH)	Korla (KRL / ZWKL)	Thu 11:05 PM CST
HXA2903	A321	Hohhot Baita Int’l (HET / ZBHH)	Changzhi (CIH / ZBCZ)	Fri 06:50 AM CST
HXA2719	A320	Chongqing Jiangbei Int’l (CKG / ZUCK)	Changzhi (CIH / ZBCZ)	Fri 06:50 AM CST
HXA4301	A320	Chongqing Jiangbei Int’l (CKG / ZUCK)	Handan (HDG / ZBHD)	Fri 06:50 AM CST

What We Know

These cancellations have been widely reported in the media and reflect a strain in regional connectivity across western China. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) regulations, when flights are cancelled carriers must provide reasonable arrangements for passengers and ensure transparency around causes.

The routes affected cover remote airports in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia, as well as major hubs such as Xi’an and Chongqing. This breadth of disruption suggests operational, crew scheduling or routing challenges within China Express’s network.

Impact on Passengers

Passengers booked on these flights face several challenges:

• They may need to find alternate routes or modes of transport.
• The limited connectivity of many of these airports complicates quick changes.
• Delays or cancellations might impact further travel plans, especially for those connecting via Xi’an or Chongqing.

Under Chinese regulations, passengers have the right to full refunds or rerouting if the cancellation is the airline’s fault. However, compensation beyond rerouting or refunds depends on the carrier’s policy and whether the cause was within airline control.

Why These Cancellations Matter

While cancellations happen in any aviation market, these particular ones matter for several reasons:

• Many routes are in remote regions, where ground alternatives are less convenient.
• The disruption is system-wide rather than isolated, indicating broader operational issues.
• For many travellers, these flights represent direct links in China’s vast domestic network, especially in the west.

What Passengers Can Do

If you were booked on one of the affected HXA flights, here’s what you should do:

1. Contact China Express Airlines directly. Request a reroute or full refund.
2. Explore other airlines or rail travel. China’s high-speed rail network may offer alternatives for some origin-destination pairs.
3. Check your connection plans. If your trip involves further flights, ensure your entire itinerary can still be met.
4. Keep documentation. Take screenshots of your booking and any communication—these may help if you seek further support.

Regulatory Framework

The CAAC’s “Regulation on the Management of Public Air Transport Services for Passengers” sets expectations for carriers in terms of passenger rights and flight regularity. Under these rules:

• Carriers must report cancellations and delays with root-cause transparency.
• Passengers are entitled to a refund or alternate itinerary if cancellations are not due to force majeure or air traffic control.
• For delays of certain lengths, food, accommodation or further compensation may be required depending on carrier policy.

The Regional Connectivity Challenge

The geography of the routes impacted—such as Xinjiang’s Kashgar, Korla, Hotan and Shache airports—adds to the complexity of disruptions. These airports serve remote populations and fewer daily flights. A cancelled flight may mean long delays or limited alternatives for travellers.

For a carrier like China Express, which often handles regional traffic with smaller aircraft such as CRJ-9s and A320/A321s, operational disruptions like crew assignments or aircraft availability can cascade quickly.

Final Thoughts

For many passengers across China’s western and central regions, the cancellations by China Express mean more than an inconvenience. They mean re-thinking travel plans, navigating limited alternative routes and possibly facing longer waits. Passengers should remain vigilant, use their rights under CAAC regulations and explore alternative transport if needed.

Understanding your options—refunds, rerouting and alternate transport—is key in such a situation. While the cancellations may reflect airline or network challenges, what matters most now is how quickly passengers are supported and how reliably the network recovers.

SOURCE- DIFFERENT AIRPORTS AND FLIGHTAWARE

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Heather Viking Embarks on Epic Asia Executive Voyage

Heather Viking, who has become a Viking Ambassador for Viking Travel Leaders Network and a Diamond Super Star, is currently onboard the Viking Yi Dun for Viking’s exclusive Epic Asia Executive Voyage. This 22-day cruise, which passengers have the opportunity to enjoy as a luxury cruise, spans the culturally rich and historically significant destinations of Japan, Korea, and China travel. Adjunct to the cruise’s primary intention and for the purpose of educator enlightenment, the voyage is also intended as advisor education travel. Viking Yi Dun is culturally oriented Viking’s cruise ship which is a travel initiative dedicated to travel education and leadership to connect the continent’s North America and Asia to assist with the travel movement of professionals and educators for their intended purposes. This trip is meant for the professional development of travel advisors, offering a personal approach.

Viking’s Epic Asia Executive Voyage presents a unique mission that parallels the one the U.S. delegation, led by President Trump, is engaged in with important rounds of trade talks and diplomacy in Asia. While political figures focus on the global economy and the geopolitics of Asia, cultural diplomats, like Heather Viking, emphasize the cultural side of diplomacy. This journey provides Heather with an opportunity to expand her knowledge of Asia, with the aim of promoting travel as a means of fostering inter-nation reconciliation. Heather explained that this tourism and cultural training coincides with President Trump’s Asia tour and expressed a desire for the goodwill and open dialogue to extend beyond the confines of conference rooms and embassies. She shared that she travels to this region with the hope of advocating for travel diplomacy and believes in the positive impact travel can have. Heather further expressed her wish that more Americans would explore this part of the world, as she feels that such travel could foster goodwill, open dialogue, and inspire more Americans to visit Asia.

This is the second time Heather participates in Viking’s Executive Learning Journey and this extraordinary voyage was made possible with the efforts of Mario Herrera, Viking’s Business Development Manager for California.

Earlier in the year, she had taken the executive voyage from Turkey to Athens, which had gone well, and subsequently, she was invited to the Asia voyage. This initiative primarily aims to further the professional skills of travel advisors by providing them an opportunity to travel and learn Viking’s offerings in various parts of the world. This will enable them to better design travel experiences for their clientele. Viking’s focus on advisor education and professional growth collaborates seamlessly with Heather’s love for travel, and her commitment to helping her clientele travel.

This was made possible because of efforts put in by Viking’s Business Development Manager for California, Mario Herrera, to extend this unique invitation for Heather’s second participation in Viking’s Executive Learning Journey.

Earlier this year, she experienced the Turkey to Athens executive voyage, which was a success and prompted her invitation for the Asia trip. This invitation was to Asia, and from here, she would join the Asia journey. The Asia journey was exclusive and aimed at increasing the professional knowledge of travel advisors. It does this by allowing them to visit different parts of the globe, while simultaneously learning more about Viking and the best ways to tailor Viking products for their clients. This merger of Viking’s urgent devotion to advisor education and professional growth, meets Heather’s love for travel and her commitment to teaching her clients.

One of the most respected individuals on the voyage was Michele Saegesser, Viking’s Vice President of Trade Development & Training. Saegesser, recognized for her significant influence in the travel industry over three decades, is well-known for her commitment to supporting travel advisors. Recently, she had been named the Godmother of the Viking Honir, further highlighting her lasting impact on Viking’s success and educational initiatives. Heather, who holds Michele in high regard, shared her gratitude for the chance to learn from such a visionary mentor. She expressed that it was inspiring to see Viking honor true leaders who shape the guest experience, rather than celebrity figures with no connection to the brand. Heather emphasized that this, to her, is the essence of loyalty, explaining that it’s the reason why advisors like herself have such strong faith in Viking.

The Viking Yi Dun, the ship that is currently hosting this Executive Voyage, is no ordinary vessel. Formerly known as the Viking Sun, it was built in 2017 by the renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. With a length of 745 feet and a gross tonnage of 47,800, the ship offers an intimate experience with only 930 guests on board. This smaller capacity allows Viking to access ports that larger cruise ships cannot, ensuring a more personalized and immersive travel experience. The ship’s Scandinavian-inspired design provides a serene atmosphere, and all staterooms feature private verandas, offering guests spectacular views of the destinations they are visiting. Guests onboard the Viking Yi Dun can enjoy destination-focused dining, a Nordic-inspired spa, and an array of enrichment activities designed to complement their cultural journey.

Viking Yi Dun Ship Specifications

Feature	Details
Length	745 feet (227.2 meters)
Beam	94 feet (28.8 meters)
Gross Tonnage	47,800 GT
Staterooms	465
Passenger Capacity	930
Year Built	2017
Builder	Fincantieri (Italy)
Flag	China
Onboard Experience	Scandinavian design, all-veranda staterooms, destination-focused dining, Nordic-inspired spa

The Epic Asia Executive Voyage is not just about exploring iconic landmarks; it’s also about deep cultural immersion. Heather and other advisors onboard will visit some of Asia’s most celebrated sites, such as Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, Kyoto’s tranquil temples, and the beaches of Busan. The voyage will culminate in post-journey tours to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an and the Great Wall of China, ensuring that the experience provides a comprehensive look at Asia’s diverse history and culture. For Heather, this cultural exploration is vital to her work as a travel advisor, as it allows her to offer more informed and personalized recommendations to her clients.

Viking’s focus on empowering travel advisors is central to what sets the company apart in the luxury cruise market. Heather Viking acknowledged the company’s dedication to education and cultural exploration, emphasizing that the voyage was not just a trip but a clear reflection of the direction in which travel leadership is heading. She pointed out that Viking continues to enhance cultural exploration while providing its advisors with the necessary tools and knowledge to deliver exceptional experiences to travelers. For Heather, Viking’s commitment to “The Viking Way” — a philosophy that champions cultural exploration, expertise, and a global perspective — deeply aligns with her own values as a travel advisor.

The media interest surrounding Heather’s journey is also growing. Following her acclaimed 30-day Epic Europe Tour earlier in the year, Heather has become a recognized name in travel media. Her “Where in the World is Heather Viking?” updates, which combined personal travel insight with educational storytelling, captured the attention of audiences across the U.S. and Canada. Now, as the world turns its focus to Asia, Heather’s journey has sparked interest from producers of lifestyle and travel programs such as NBC’s TODAY Show, Travel + Leisure TV, Fox, and PBS. These programs have previously highlighted Heather’s work, and her latest journey is expected to inspire new features centered on U.S.–Asia tourism recovery and cultural exchange.

The Club Cruise agency, with which Heather is affiliated, is a full-service luxury cruise agency based in Northern California. Founded in 1991, the agency specializes in personalized, concierge-level planning for Viking River, Ocean, and Expedition voyages. As an authorized Viking partner and a member of Travel Leaders Network’s President’s Circle, Club Cruise continues to set the standard for high-touch cruise planning and travel expertise. Heather’s partnership with Club Cruise has allowed her to leverage her extensive knowledge of Viking’s offerings to curate unforgettable travel experiences for her clients.

Viking itself remains a global leader in experiential travel, with a fleet of over 100 ships that explore rivers, oceans, and continents across the globe. Known for its commitment to science, history, culture, and cuisine, Viking has earned more than 450 awards, including being ranked #1 for Rivers and Oceans by Condé Nast Traveler for five consecutive years. The company’s dedication to offering travelers immersive and meaningful experiences has solidified its position as one of the premier names in luxury cruising.

The Epic Asia Executive Voyage is a testament to Viking’s unwavering commitment to education, exploration, and cultural exchange. For Heather Viking, this journey represents the perfect opportunity to expand her own knowledge of Asia while simultaneously inspiring her clients and fellow travel advisors to embrace the power of travel as a tool for building bridges between cultures. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, experiences like this one will play an integral role in shaping the future of global travel. For Heather, it’s not just about visiting new destinations; it’s about gaining deeper insights that will enrich her work as a travel advisor and help others experience the world in a more meaningful way.

As Heather Viking continues her journey aboard the Viking Yi Dun, she is not only gaining invaluable experiences but also helping to shape the future of travel leadership and advisor education. Through her partnership with Viking and Club Cruise, Heather is leading the charge in a new era of travel—one that emphasizes cultural understanding, education, and the power of exploration to foster connections between people across the globe. With Viking’s continued commitment to its advisors and travelers, the future of luxury travel looks bright.

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Planning for Adventure? 10 Vacation Activities Travel Insurance Might Miss

When getting ready for a vacation, a lot of clients see travel insurance as just an extra cost. Clients need to understand, though, that travel insurance is just one layer of protecting yourself from a possible financial loss. If a vacation consists of any of the following activities: hiking, biking, riding birds, diving, or any of the other million activities people do for fun, not getting insurance could put you at financial risk.

Travel insurance is an extra layer of protecting yourself financially when you are getting on a plane, train, or any other form of travel. Losing your luggage, having your flight delayed, or your trip getting canceled are just extra expenses. Chrissy Valdez mentioned that a good travel insurance plan will cover your trip for medical expenses; especially, for emergency medical evacuation which will be one of the most costly and unexpected expenses during your trip. For most people, a trip plan that includes evacuation coverage will be deemed sufficient.

Let’s dive into the top 10 vacation activities that are commonly not covered by travel insurance, and why.

1. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving opens up a world of adventure beneath the waves, but it’s also a high-risk activity. Whether it’s decompression sickness, equipment failure, or even drowning, scuba diving can lead to serious medical emergencies that standard travel insurance typically won’t cover. To ensure you’re protected, you’ll need to purchase specialized dive insurance, which is often an affordable add-on. Without it, an incident could leave you with hefty medical bills or evacuation costs.

2. Snow Sports

Skiing and snowboarding are thrilling winter activities but carry significant risks. Injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or even needing a mountain evacuation due to an accident can happen. Most travel insurance policies don’t cover snow sports injuries unless you opt for specific coverage. If you plan to hit the slopes in places like the Swiss Alps or Colorado, it’s essential to make sure your insurance covers snow sports, which usually requires purchasing an upgrade.

3. Hiking

Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that people enjoy during vacations in the mountains or through national parks. However, it’s often excluded from standard policies, particularly when done in remote or high-altitude areas. A simple sprained ankle or fall can lead to substantial medical costs, especially if you need evacuation from difficult-to-reach areas. Many policies won’t cover these types of injuries unless you add specific adventure or hiking coverage.

4. Quad Biking and ATVs

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and quad biking offer an adrenaline-filled way to explore remote landscapes, but they are associated with significant risks, such as accidents, rollovers, and injuries. Because ATVs are often used in off-road environments where emergency services might not be readily available, most travel insurance policies exclude these activities. If you’re planning an ATV adventure, make sure your insurance includes coverage for off-road activities.

5. Kayaking

While kayaking may seem like a leisurely activity, it comes with risks, especially in wild waters or challenging conditions. Capsizing, hitting rocks, or encountering strong currents can cause serious injuries and require costly emergency services. Most standard travel insurance policies exclude kayaking accidents unless they’re on a designated, calm water route. If you’re heading out on a more adventurous kayaking trip, make sure to check your coverage and consider upgrading if necessary.

6. Ziplining

Ziplining offers an exhilarating way to enjoy nature, but the activity involves risks like whiplash, friction burns, and falls. Because ziplining often takes place in remote locations, where medical help can be hard to reach, it’s commonly excluded from regular travel insurance plans. If you’re planning to zip through the jungle in Costa Rica or over mountains in the Philippines, make sure your policy covers this adventure or purchase additional coverage.

7. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding can be a fun and scenic way to explore a destination, but it also comes with risks. Falls, fractures, and concussions are common injuries, and many insurance providers consider horseback riding a high-risk activity, particularly in rural or off-the-beaten-path locations. Standard travel insurance often doesn’t cover horseback riding, so it’s important to either check your policy or purchase additional coverage if you plan to take part in this activity during your trip.

8. Bungee Jumping

For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping offers a high-flying adventure, but it also carries significant risks, such as whiplash, fractures, or other injuries. Given the extreme nature of the activity, most travel insurance policies don’t include coverage for accidents from bungee jumping. If this is on your bucket list, you’ll likely need to purchase a specialized policy or upgrade your current plan to ensure that you’re covered for any unexpected mishaps.

9. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Though relatively rare, hot air balloon rides provide a unique and picturesque way to see the world. However, they also come with their own set of risks, including accidents caused by sudden weather changes or mechanical failure. As a result, most travel insurance plans exclude hot air ballooning accidents. If you’re planning to soar through the skies in a hot air balloon, it’s essential to check your coverage and consider purchasing a policy that includes aerial activities.

10. Safaris

A safari is an exciting way to experience wildlife up close, but it also presents significant risks. Encounters with wild animals, disease transmission, and medical emergencies in remote areas are just some of the potential dangers. Due to the nature of these risks and the locations where safaris take place, travel insurance often excludes coverage for safari-related incidents. For those embarking on a safari in Africa or another wildlife-rich destination, specialized insurance may be required to cover medical evacuations or accidents.

Conclusion

Travel insurance can be the difference between a disaster and a disaster overall. However, you need to know what these policies actually entail. Most of the so-called adventurous activities you have fun with like; hiking, scuba diving and skiing, for instance, don’t cover most policies. So before your next planned holiday ensure to check the policies, read the fine print and possibly see if you can pay for more high-risk activities.

Vacations and cover policies that include adventure sports, remote excursions, or activities that can be deemed “higher-risk”, are usually accompanied with very cheap additional cover. Protecting yourself in this way ensures that you can enjoy your holiday without a care in the world.

You don’t want to be a holiday with things that are unexpected. But, as the saying goes, these problems aren’t all that unexpected if you have not planned for them. So review your policies to make these adjustments and be on your way.

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Netherlands Ranked Safest Travel Destination for 2026, Overtaking Iceland

The Netherlands has officially claimed the top spot on the list of the world’s safest places to travel for 2026, according to a new report by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. This marks an impressive rise for the European country, which jumped from 14th place last year to bump Iceland from its long-held position at the top.

How the Rankings Are Decided

The Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection report blends the personal experiences of thousands of American travelers with hard data from global safety indexes like the Global Peace Index, Numbeo’s crime statistics, and GeoSure Global safety scores. It looks at various factors such as violent crime rates, terrorism risks, health hazards, and even how safe travelers feel based on their experiences—taking into account everything from street crime to how well cities are equipped to handle emergencies.

Why the Netherlands is #1

The Netherlands’ rapid climb to the top of the rankings is no surprise, given the country’s long-standing reputation for safety, stability, and high-quality healthcare. Several key factors played into its rise:

• Peaceful Society: The Netherlands has long been known for its political stability and peaceful environment. It ranks highly on the Global Peace Index, reflecting the nation’s commitment to maintaining safety both for locals and tourists.
• Top-tier Healthcare: The Netherlands’ healthcare system is one of the best in Europe. Travelers feel confident knowing they have access to high-quality medical care if needed.
• Inclusive Safety: The Netherlands stands out for its focus on inclusivity, scoring exceptionally well for LGBTQIA+ travelers, women, and people of color. This inclusive environment has made it a top choice for those seeking a safe and welcoming destination.
• Safety in Major Cities: Cities like Amsterdam are known not only for their rich history and vibrant culture but also for their low crime rates, making them a top destination for tourists seeking peace of mind.

Other Top Countries on the List

Following the Netherlands, the top five safest destinations in 2026 include:

1. Australia: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare, Australia remains a favorite for safe travel.
2. Austria: A new addition to the top three, Austria’s strong infrastructure, political stability, and low crime rates helped it secure this high position.
3. Iceland: While it dropped from the top spot, Iceland remains a very safe destination, offering scenic beauty and minimal criminal activity.
4. Canada: With its friendly atmosphere and well-established healthcare system, Canada continues to be a top choice for travelers seeking safety.

Other countries rounding out the top 10 include New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates (a new addition to the top ranks), Switzerland, Japan, and Ireland.

The Safest Cities in the World

Along with ranking countries, the report also looked at cities around the world to determine which ones offer the safest environments for travelers. The top five cities of 2026 are:

1. Reykjavik, Iceland: Still a safe bet, with little to no crime and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark: Known for its low crime rates and welcoming public services, Copenhagen remains a top choice for safety-conscious travelers.
3. Zurich, Switzerland: With its high quality of life and excellent safety standards, Zurich is a top contender for travelers seeking security.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam ranks highly for its clean streets, low crime rates, and efficient public services, making it a great option for tourists.
5. Honolulu, Hawaii, USA: As the safest U.S. city, Honolulu continues to be known for its friendly people and low crime rates.

What This Means for Travelers

This year’s report highlights the growing importance of comprehensive safety, not just in terms of crime rates, but also access to quality healthcare, political stability, and inclusivity. The Netherlands’ rise to the top signals a shift in how travelers view safety—no longer just concerned with street crime, but with a broader, more holistic sense of well-being.

That said, experts caution that even in the safest countries, conditions can change. Natural disasters, political protests, or unexpected health crises can affect the safety of any destination. As a precaution, travelers are encouraged to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and notifications, and to consider purchasing travel insurance before embarking on their journeys.

Conclusion

The Netherlands’ newfound spot at the top of the safest places to visit in 2026 is a reflection of its commitment to providing a secure and welcoming environment for both its residents and tourists. The country’s combination of political stability, inclusive policies, and high-quality healthcare make it a standout destination for travelers seeking peace of mind.

As always, even the safest destinations require a little preparation and awareness. However, with the right precautions, travelers can experience the Netherlands with confidence, knowing that they’re in one of the safest places in the world.

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