IMG's 2026 Travel Outlook: Italy Takes Top Spot and AI's Emerging Role

24 March 2026

IMG’s 2026 Travel Outlook Survey highlights Italy as the most popular destination, with growing interest in AI tools to help plan trips. Travelers are increasingly relying on both human advisors and AI for recommendations, itinerary planning, and discovery, though confidence in AI drops closer to booking. Urban and rural tourism remain popular, alongside beach vacations and multigenerational travel. Cruise travel is rising, with 30% of respondents planning a cruise in 2026, up 11% from last year. Health concerns and potential trip disruptions remain top priorities, influencing how travelers plan and purchase travel protection.

Internet, Insurance, and Payments: What Swiss Travelers Should Pay Attention To

24 March 2026

Swiss travelers are advised to plan ahead for the 2026 travel season, focusing on mobile internet, travel insurance, and payment methods. Roaming data bundles or travel eSIMs can provide affordable internet abroad, though travelers should check data validity and device compatibility. Long-term travel insurance is often more cost-effective for frequent travelers, and some policies may already cover rental car insurance, making additional coverage unnecessary. Choosing the right credit or debit card can save significant money on foreign transactions and cash withdrawals. Careful planning and comparison of services help travelers avoid unnecessary costs and ensure smoother trips.

Flight Cancelled Due To War? Why Your Travel Insurance May Not Pay

23 March 2026

Travel disruptions caused by the Iran-US conflict are leaving many passengers stranded, revealing the limits of standard travel insurance. Most policies exclude coverage for war or war-like events, meaning cancellations, delays, and related expenses are generally not reimbursed. Airlines treat conflicts as “force majeure,” offering refunds or rebooking but no additional compensation. Travelers may still claim for personal emergencies, medical issues, or baggage loss unrelated to conflict, but geopolitical disruptions fall outside typical coverage. Experts advise reading policy details carefully, documenting issues, and considering specialized or add-on insurance for high-risk situations.