5 iconic US destinations you can only reach by boat or seaplane in America

About 12 miles off the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Fort Massachusetts offers a glimpse into Civil War history. The D-shaped brick fort, where construction began in 1859, features cannons, arched corridors and grass-covered walls for visitors to explore, according to the National Park Service.

The lone surviving 100 ponder canon facing the shore at Fort Massachusetts on West Ship Island

Fort Massachusetts sits about 12 miles off the Mississippi Gulf Coast and offers a glimpse into Civil War-era history. (iStock)

The unfinished fort was seized by Mississippi militia forces in early 1861, marking one of the earliest actions leading into the Civil War.

Ferries run regularly, but private boaters can discover a more secluded experience that feels far removed from mainland crowds.

5. Isle Royale National Park — Michigan

A man sitting on a large rock overlooking Lake Superior at Isle Royale National Park in Michigan

Isle Royale National Park offers remote wilderness, hiking trails and wildlife in Lake Superior. (iStock)

Isle Royale is ideal for travelers seeking true isolation. Located in Lake Superior near the Canadian border, the park is only accessible by boat or seaplane and has no roads. Instead, visitors find miles of hiking trails, ancient mining pits, remote campsites, the seasonal Rock Harbor Lodge and wildlife including moose and wolves.

The extra effort required to get there limits visitor numbers, offering a rare sense of solitude in the national park system, according to Travel + Leisure.

Deirdre Bardolf is a lifestyle writer with Fox News Digital.

Residential cruise startup Fabled Voyages now accepts dogs and cats on its ships

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April 18, 2026

CRUISE SHIP STRIKES REEF NEAR TOM HANKS’ ICONIC ‘CAST AWAY’ ISLAND, SPARKING RESCUE AT SEA

Residential cruise startup Fabled Voyages now accepts dogs and cats on its ships

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A long-standing debate about traveling with pets has been reignited as a Denver, Colorado-based cruise operator starts accepting dogs and cats onboard its ships.

Fabled Voyages, a residential cruise startup, began accepting deposits on March 30, 2026, positioning its pet-friendly policy as a primary selling point for 15-year residencies.

“With a desire to travel the world and include our dachshunds with us, the safest and easiest method was through a yacht [or] ship,” the company told Fox News Digital.

The founders noted that while private yachts offer freedom, they lack the scale and amenities of a large-scale residential ship.

Most major cruise lines prohibit non-service animals due to practical challenges such as sanitation, limited space, allergies and strict port regulations, according to Travel Noire.

Most major cruise lines prohibit non-service animals due to practical challenges like sanitation, limited space, allergies and strict port regulations. But a few companies are looking to make a change. (iStock)

Last year, however, Margaritaville at Sea offered a much-hyped dog-friendly cruise in November 2025.

The 6-night Caribbean trip on the Islander ship was designed for 250 dogs and their owners, CruiseHive said.

CRUISE LINES CANCEL SAILINGS, REROUTE SHIPS AS MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT DISRUPTS VOYAGES

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 offers a limited kennel program, according to CruiseCritic — while niche operators like Cruise Tails run occasional dog-focused sailings.

“Our Residential Cruise ship is not solely about the cruise experience, but more importantly, [it] minimizes the barriers to living a fulfilling life [and] traveling the world with those that matter,” Fabled Voyages said.

To keep both pet parents and non-pet passengers happy, the Fabled Voyages ship is featuring designated residential areas and pet-specific zones. (iStock)

To keep both pet parents and non-pet passengers happy, the ship will feature designated residential areas and pet-specific zones. The company will even have grooming and veterinary services onboard, it said.

The cruise line will offer global itineraries that include South America, Southeast Asia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

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Under its 2026 program, dogs up to 40 pounds and cats up to 20 pounds will be allowed in cabins, provided the animals pass veterinary clearance and meet international travel requirements.

Fabled Voyages will even have grooming and veterinary services onboard. (iStock)

International regulations remain a major hurdle. Countries such as China, Jamaica and Iceland enforce strict entry requirements, the USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service stipulates.

Animals, of course, are nothing new to ocean travel. The Titanic famously carried at least a dozen dogs, complete with kennels and daily exercise routines, according to Smithsonian magazine.

Now, the tide may be turning again. Residential cruises are one of the fastest-growing corners of the cruise market. Yet travelers are strongly divided about having pets onboard.

In a Reddit discussion about cruises with pets — not specifically about Fabled Voyages — passengers were split.

In a Reddit discussion about cruises that allow pets, passengers were strongly divided. (iStock)

Companies “should have specific dog cruises. My dogs would love that,” one traveler said.

“We have dogs onboard, pet state rooms … and no one cares. It is just normal,” another person agreed.

But the concept was a hard “no” for many cruise lovers.

“Absolutely not! Not on planes, buses, trains and not on ships. Not everybody is comfortable surrounded by animals,” a Reddit user said, referring to pets on cruises in general, not Fabled Voyages.

A woman walking a dog near a cruise ship

The Titanic famously carried at least a dozen dogs, complete with kennels and daily exercise routines. (iStock)

“I don’t want to have to avoid dog poop on my vacation … or hear your dog bark in your stateroom,” said another person. “True service animals are fine … your labradoodle isn’t fine.”

Another complained, “If people on ships are similar to those on land, there will be dog poop on the decks, and people will let their dogs bark in their staterooms while they go to the casino or something.”

Yet another said, “Yeah, so you can bring it to the … buffet, and [we’ll] have dog hair in our food? … Can I bring my cat, horse, cow, sheep, goat, turtle, goldfish, parrot and iguana, too?”

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Air Force Academy culminating training puts cadets through war scenario

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April 18, 2026

‘FLY’ YOUR OWN AIRCRAFT IN US AIR FORCE ACADEMY HOTEL’S FIRST-EVER FLIGHT SIMULATORS

Air Force Academy culminating training puts cadets through war scenario

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado – The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) held its large-scale annual “CULEX,” or culminating training exercise, on Thursday, giving cadets a realistic look at a combat scenario.

The 24-hour-a-day exercise places nearly 4,000 cadets in a mock war setting, where upperclassmen lead complex missions and younger students follow orders. This year, it runs April 15–16.

The Air Force Academy is 18,500 acres, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, but on Thursday, the culminating exercise scenario transformed USAFA into Hokkaido, a Japanese island under attack by enemy forces.

“We’ve pretty much taken over the entirety of USAFA, to allow all 4,000 of our cadets to have space to operate throughout the exercise,” said CULEX director Col. Jennifer Hall.

U.S. Air Force Academy cadets hike through the woods during field exercise. (Amy Galo)

In the war scenario, Japan has asked the U.S. to come in as a defensive force.

“In this scenario, we have four established airfields,” Hall said. “And so that’s what’s established, the four joint operating areas that we have them in.”

Each joint operation area, or JOA, has around 800 cadets, defending an airfield, two high-value assets and a downed airman. Cadets also face real-world issues such as injured officers and invasions by enemy targets deemed the “Red Force.”

Map displaying the four joint operating areas during the CULEX. (Amy Galo)

“We pulled out one squadron to play Red Force,” said Hall. “So our cadets are actually playing Red Force, and they’re out there in the field right now harassing our cadets. They’re doing an amazing job. They’re super excited.”

Hall explained, “What we’re trying to do is have the cadets prioritize through decision-making. And you’ll see all across that Red Force is trying to complicate that to the best of their ability.”

While the situation may not be real, it definitely looks and feels like it.

AI TEST FLIGHT MOVES AIR FORCE ONE STEP CLOSER TO UNMANNED ‘WINGMAN’ AIRCRAFT

“You’ll see about 15 tents laid down as an austere, expeditionary environment, two of which are tactical operations centers and a medical tent and warming tent,” Hall explained. “And then we have sleeping tents for the cadets, because we will be remaining overnight for the first time.”

Cadets hold air soft guns on the lookout

U.S. Air Force cadets on the lookout for enemy targets during the culminating exercise. (Amy Galo)

Some cadets fly airplanes while others deploy parachutes in the sky. On the ground, hundreds of cadets equipped with air soft guns defend their camps, taking radio traffic from troops under attack. Meanwhile, students in mission control use drones and mapping technology to solve real-world problems.

AIR FORCE TURNS TO VIDEO GAMES TO HELP PREPARE MEMBERS FOR REAL-LIFE COMBAT

Air Force cadets participate in CULEX training. (Amy Galo)

“The only way to prepare for the fight that we’re in, or the future fight, is to develop the training necessary where they can experience it real time, in the woods, in the field,” said Hall.

Now in its second year, the CULEX focuses on building confidence, teamwork and leadership skills rather than testing cadets with a pass-or-fail system. It’s a multi-domain tactical exercise designed to replicate the environments future Space Force and Air Force officers may encounter.

USAFA students study a map during their culminating exercise. (Amy Galo)

“For our seniors, in 44 days, they’re going to graduate, and they’re going to go off, and they’re going to be officers in our Space Force and Air Force— how much more equipped they’re going to be to lead, to face complicated problems, to know that they can do what’s difficult,” said Hall.

Amy Galo joined FOX News in 2026 as a Multimedia Reporter based in Orlando, Florida.

Carnival Legend cruise ship rescues stranded sailor and his cat adrift near Cozumel

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April 18, 2026

TITANIC SURVIVOR LIFE JACKET SET TO FETCH STAGGERING PRICE AS ANNIVERSARY NEARS

Carnival Legend cruise ship rescues stranded sailor and his cat adrift near Cozumel

Cruise ship rescues stranded sailor and his cat in Gulf drama

A Carnival cruise ship crew spotted distress flares while sailing to Cozumel, Mexico, and rescued a stranded sailor and his cat at sea. Both were brought safely aboard and received care. FOX 26 spoke with two passengers who were on board the ship.

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A Carnival Cruise Line ship came to the rescue of a stranded sailor and his cat on Tuesday, April 14, after crew members spotted distress signals coming from a disabled sailboat in open waters on the ship’s path from Galveston, Texas, to Cozumel, Mexico.

The Carnival Legend was sailing a Caribbean itinerary when crew members noticed emergency flares.

They acted swiftly — deploying a small boat to bring the man and his cat, Dahlia, safely onboard, as video captured at the scene shows.

“The sailor and his cat are safe and doing well,” Carnival Cruise Line told Fox News Digital in a statement.

The sailor had been drifting for several days after having engine issues.

The Carnival Legend was sailing a Caribbean itinerary and headed to Mexico from Texas when crew members noticed emergency flares Tuesday night. They quickly moved to assist — launching a rescue boat to reach a vessel in distress (not pictured). (Carnival Cruise Line)

He lit the flares desperately hoping to be rescued, the company said.

“The sailor is currently being cared for by Legend’s medical team,” Carnival also said in its statement.

It did not release the man’s name.

Passengers aboard the ship witnessed the dramatic rescue as it unfolded, with many describing it as a memorable and emotional moment during their trip.

Seascape and islands panoramic view from cruising ship deck. Instagram retro effect added.

Passengers aboard the cruise ship on Tuesday, April 14, witnessed the dramatic rescue as it unfolded, with many describing it as a memorable and emotional moment. (iStock)

“We’ve been on probably 30 cruises before and never experienced anything like this,” a cruise passenger and his wife told Fox 26 in an interview.

“To be out in the middle of the ocean, and then you look out, and you see a spotlight shining on a sailboat that was just kind of going up and down in the waves … You could tell [the sailboat] was distressed.”

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Dahlia the cat quickly became an unexpected guest aboard the ship, drawing attention from travelers and crew alike.

The Carnival Legend is a Spirit-class cruise ship that launched in 2002 after being built in Finland, according to the company.

A cat named Dahlia, pictured above, became an unexpected guest on Carnival Cruise Line this week. (Carnival Cruise Line)

The ship is about 963 feet long and can accommodate roughly 2,100 passengers, along with a crew of around 900.

Over the years, the Legend has sailed a range of itineraries, including the Caribbean and Alaska, while undergoing updates to add modern amenities.

It remains an active part of Carnival’s fleet, offering a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly features.

Khloe Quill of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Major America 250 events include tall ships parade, huge state fair and IndyCar race

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April 17, 2026

STEAK ‘N SHAKE’S $2.50 STATUE OF LIBERTY MILKSHAKE GOES VIRAL: ‘ROLLING THE DICE ON DAIRY’

Major America 250 events include tall ships parade, huge state fair and IndyCar race

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As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Americans all over the country are preparing for the major kickoff this summer of a nationwide celebration that’s been years in the making.

One of the largest celebrations to take place on the East and Gulf Coasts will be Sail250, running May 28 through July 16. International fleets of tall ships and Navy vessels will dock in New Orleans; Norfolk, Virginia; Baltimore, Maryland; New York City and New Jersey; and Boston — bringing parades, tours, fireworks and much more.

“A fleet of majestic tall ships from more than 20 nations, each a symbol of tradition, adventure and international goodwill, will fill the harbor in maritime celebration,” notes one of the Sail250 websites. “The Port of New York and New Jersey will once again welcome the world.”

In Washington, D.C., the National Mall will transform into the biggest “state fair,” featuring vendors from all 50 states across 16 days.

The Great American State Fair will take place from June 25 to July 10.

As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, Americans all over the country are preparing this summer for a nationwide celebration years in the making. (iStock; AP)

“From Maine lobster rolls to Hawaii’s shimmering hula stage, Texas-sized steaks to Alaska’s towering ice carvings, all 50 states, territories, and federal agencies showcase their food, culture and pride to one unforgettable, coast-to-coast celebration,” the Freedom250 website says.

“As our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of freedom and opportunity, the National Mall will once again serve as the stage for telling our nation’s story,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in a release. “Thanks to President Donald J. Trump’s leadership, the Great American State Fair will bring all 50 states and six territories together in one place, showcasing the people, landscapes and traditions that define this country.”

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On the eve of July 4th, Mount Rushmore will host a “spectacular Independence Day celebration in partnership with the State of South Dakota,” according to the National Parks Service (NPS) website.

The evening will feature educational programs, patriotic tributes and musical entertainment to mark the occasion.

Washington Monument illuminated with Freedom 250 projection lights at night

Tests of The Freedom 250 projections are shown lighting up the Washington Monument in Washington Dec. 30, 2025. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images)

An Interior Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital, “Under President Donald J. Trump, America’s 250th birthday will be marked by a once-in-a-lifetime celebration that encapsulates the American spirit — including a spectacular fireworks display at Mount Rushmore that honors our history at the monument that symbolizes those who built it.”

“Unlike the prior administration,” the spokesperson added, “the Department of the Interior is excited to be part of such an incredible event that, through careful planning and coordination, celebrates and honors the founding of the United States.”

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and officials unveiling Freedom 250 Grand Prix race course outside U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.

Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Mayor Muriel Bowser of D.C. and Bud Denker, chair of the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C., unveil the Freedom 250 Grand Prix racecourse outside the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 9, 2026. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters)

One of the major sporting events that will take place in D.C. this summer is the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.

IndyCar drivers will go around the National Mall with the U.S. Capitol as the backdrop for the event. The races will go down 3rd Street and turn down Pennsylvania Avenue to start.

The drivers will zoom past the National Archives, the National Gallery of Art, the Hirshhorn Museum and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum before going back onto 3rd Street.

“It’s important for people to see themselves in this commemoration.”

The event is set to take place from August 21 to August 23.

Rosie Rios, chair of the America250 commission, previously told Fox News Digital, “It’s important for people to see themselves in this commemoration and important for them to feel inspired for our country’s future.”

Congress created The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to plan and orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Rios is a former treasurer of the U.S.

Ashley J. DiMella reports on politics for Fox News Digital.

US warns Americans about travel to Trinidad, Tobago due to crime and terrorism

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April 17, 2026

5 DANGEROUS CRUISE PORTS THAT TRAVELERS SHOULD RESEARCH BEFORE BOOKING EXCURSIONS

US warns Americans about travel to Trinidad, Tobago due to crime and terrorism

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Americans are being warned to rethink travel to a sunny Caribbean destination as crime and concerns about terrorism rise.

The U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago announced Thursday that the U.S. Department of State had updated its travel advisory regarding American tourists.

The advisory cautions that Americans should “reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime,” citing a “heightened risk of terrorism.”

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is authorized to search and enter private and public properties while the State of Emergency (SOE), which was declared March 2, remains in effect.

Bail is suspended during this time, meaning that anyone arrested for crimes in the country will be unable to leave local custody.

The State Department updated its advisory as Trinidad and Tobago faces ongoing public safety challenges and security concerns. (iStock)

Authorities say the order is due to “a spike in violent criminal activity that could threaten public safety.”

The embassy said that “although violent crime in Trinidad and Tobago has dropped greatly since 2024 due to security efforts started during the previous state of emergencies, crime remains a challenge throughout the country” — adding that crime rates are lower in Tobago than in Trinidad.

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The advisory also states that U.S. government employees are prohibited from entering certain areas of the capital city, Port of Spain, including Laventille, Piccadilly Street and Besson Street.

Travelers are advised against entering Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite and the interior of Queen’s Park Savannah, as well as certain parts of Charlotte Street.

View of beach in Trinidad with tourists, swimmers

The Caribbean nation, known for its beaches and carnival, is facing renewed scrutiny over crime levels. (iStock)

At night, Americans are also discouraged from going to any of the beaches in Port of Spain as well as its downtown district, Fort George and Queen’s Park Savannah.

Trinidad and Tobago are distinct islands that were merged into a single colony in 1889, during British rule. They stayed unified when they declared independence in 1962.

The islands are known for their diving and snorkeling opportunities, as well as their beaches. Trinidad is especially known for its high-energy carnival celebrations.

Aerial view of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

The advisory includes warnings about visiting beaches and downtown areas in Port of Spain, seen above, at night. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Officials are also advising tourists to exercise increased caution in rural areas due to health risks and limited healthcare access.

The advisory was discussed in a recent Reddit forum about Trinidad and Tobago, with some locals voicing alarm about the crime situation.

Overview of Parlatuvier Bay in Tobago West Indies

The advisory warns that Americans should “reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime.” (Getty Images)

“My heart actually feels broken, and I feel a bit hopeless about crime in T&T,” one Reddit user wrote.

“I am seriously worried about my close family, as it [crime] can hit anyone now.”

US drivers seek out tribal gas stations to save money amid high fuel prices

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April 17, 2026

‘GAS STATION HEROIN’ BANNED IN ANOTHER STATE AMID NATIONWIDE CRACKDOWNS

US drivers seek out tribal gas stations to save money amid high fuel prices

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Many drivers across the U.S. are flocking to tribal gas stations as a way to save money, amid high fuel prices during the ongoing Iran conflict.

In Washington state, one driver said she went out of her way to fill up her car’s gas tank on tribal land after noticing a significant price difference.

“I purposely drove here just for the gas,” traveler Junelle Lewis told The Associated Press while filling up her SUV at a station on the Tulalip Reservation.

The Tulalip Tribes is a federally recognized Indian tribe in the mid-Puget Sound region of Washington state, according to its website.

Lewis paid about 75 cents less per gallon than nearby stations, she told AP.

Amid today’s high fuel prices, some drivers across the U.S. are turning to tribal gas stations to save money. (Lindsey Wasson/AP)

Gas prices nationwide have risen by more than $1 since late February, reaching an average of about $4.15 per gallon, according to AAA, although prices have been stabilizing somewhat since then.

For some drivers, the savings at tribal stations can add up quickly.

In parts of California and New Mexico, fuel has been reported to cost 50 to 60 cents less per gallon compared to nearby locations.

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The difference often comes down to taxes.

Tribal gas stations typically do not pay state fuel taxes when selling on tribal land, allowing them to offer lower prices in many cases. Federal fuel taxes still apply, but the exemption from state taxes can create a noticeable price gap.

The U.S. has hundreds of tribally owned gas stations — many located along major travel routes, making them accessible options for drivers looking to cut costs.

Gasoline pump nozzle refueling a white car at a gas station.

In parts of California and New Mexico, fuel at tribal gas stations has been reported to cost 50 to 60 cents less per gallon than at nearby locations. (iStock)

Savings, however, are not guaranteed everywhere.

Some drivers say the price difference depends heavily on location and state tax rates.

On Reddit, travelers shared a variety of experiences, with some reporting significant savings and others saying the difference was minimal.

“Filled up on [a reservation] last weekend for $3.50 while the average is around $4,” one user wrote.

Some drivers said they go out of their way to take advantage of the lower prices.

A customer pressing premium grade fuel pump at a tribally owned gas station

On social media, some drivers say price differences vary widely depending on location and state tax rates. (Susan Montoya Bryan/AP)

“If I can save a buck every two gallons, you bet I am driving out … to refill,” one user wrote.

Others noted that in areas with lower fuel taxes, the savings may be smaller or nonexistent.

“Price isn’t much, if any, better than Costco,” one user commented.

Experts say consumers can benefit from comparing prices before filling up, using apps or local knowledge to find cheaper options.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Visual Storytelling: The Magic of Images in Social Media Marketing

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April 17, 2026

RPR Comando is back with “Visual Storytelling: The Magic of Images in Social Media Marketing”. In today’s fast-scrolling digital world, capturing attention is harder than ever. Users decide in less than three seconds whether to engage with your post or keep scrolling. This is where visual storytelling shines. A compelling image doesn’t just decorate your content – it tells a story, evokes emotion, and drives action far more effectively than text alone. This article first appeared on https://rprcomando.com/visual-storytelling-the-magic-of-images-in-social-media-marketing/ #BookMarketing #PRDistribution #PressReleaseMarketing

socialmedia7 — Visual Storytelling: The Magic of Images in Social Media Marketing 46

Visual Storytelling: The Magic of Images in Social Media Marketing 47

RPR Tweet2 Copy — Visual Storytelling: The Magic of Images in Social Media Marketing 48

Airport lounges grow chaotic as incidences of overcrowding, food hoarding rise

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April 17, 2026

AIRLINE UNVEILS STACKED BUNK BED ‘PODS’ AS BACKLASH BUILDS OVER PRICEY, CRAMPED WAY TO FLY

Airport lounges grow chaotic as incidences of overcrowding, food hoarding rise

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Airport lounges were once the destination of a select few. But recently, the premium spaces are becoming increasingly crowded — and chaos is following in some cases.

Stories are going viral about passengers raiding complimentary buffets in lounges, and children wreaking havoc while distracted parents are unfazed.

At one airport lounge in a major New York City airport not long ago, witnesses watched in shock as a couple ordered six signature burgers and multiple orders of buns, the “View from the Wing” blog reported.

Instead of eating the premium patties, the couple stuffed the burgers into a large duffel, adding desserts snatched from the buffet, the blog added.

Then, to conceal the heist, apparently, the couple stashed the greasy plates behind decorative planters, the blog noted.

At a sky club lounge recently, a traveler snapped a photo (not shown) of kids’ small suitcases opened — and with clothes, sneakers and water bottles strewn all over the floor. (iStock)

“Lounges have become more crowded, and the demographic makeup of U.S. airport lounges has changed,” Gary Leff, the author of the blog, told Fox News Digital.

“Once the province of memberships and cheese cubes for solo business travelers, the lounges are increasingly accessed via credit card by premium leisure travelers,” said Leff, who is based in Texas.

AIRLINE SPARKS ANGER AS IT DEMANDS EXTRA FEES FROM ALREADY BOOKED PASSENGERS AS OIL PRICES SPIKE

Leff noted that during the recent shutdown, U.S. travelers arrived at airports very early.

As a result, many booked passengers were looking for places to relax — and to eat free food.

A selection of hamburgers displayed on plates in a café setting

Witnesses watched as a couple hoarded burgers for their family at an airport lounge recently. (iStock)

He also said families with children frequent lounges far more often now.

Some lounges have created kids’ sections, while others have not.

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“The mores and norms associated with [airport lounges] have changed, and that stands out especially to those whose expectations are built on an earlier era,” Leff said.

Observers have seen travelers piling desserts on plates, such as the ones shown above, at buffets in airport lounges. (iStock)

Another viral incident was captured by a photo of an airport lounge after young children seemed to wreak havoc there.

“Lounges have become more crowded, and the demographic makeup of U.S. airport lounges has changed.”

A traveler snapped a photo at a sky club lounge in a western U.S. airport showing kids’ small suitcases opened, with clothes, sneakers and water bottles strewn all over the floor, the “Aviation A2Z” blog reported.

Surprisingly, most Reddit users came to the family’s defense.

Mother with children and luggage looking at planes inside an airport terminal

“Traveling with children has always been challenging and stressful for parents, and sometimes that can be disruptive to other travelers,” said one author of a travel blog. (iStock)

“Honestly, if their kids aren’t being terrors to everyone else, and it’s contained to a seating area for four people, and they [clean] everything up, this is fine in my book,” one Reddit user said.

“The parents found a space to hang out away from everyone else, and took a small area for themselves that has no impact on anyone else,” another commenter said.

“Depends entirely on how loud the kids are. If they are quiet? Keep it that way,” a third person said.

Mother and two children looking out airplane window while seated on a commercial flight.

A viral incident included a photo of an airport lounge after some young children (not pictured) wreaked havoc. (iStock)

California-based Brett Snyder, author of the “Cranky Flier” blog, sees the chaos differently.

“Etiquette probably hasn’t changed much recently. The issue is that everyone has a camera, and they are recording all the bad behavior and posting it publicly,” Snyder told Fox News Digital.

“Traveling with children has always been challenging and stressful for parents, and sometimes that can be disruptive to other travelers.”

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Trump administration expands visa restrictions in Western Hemisphere

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April 17, 2026

RUBIO IDENTIFIES ‘SINGLE MOST SERIOUS THREAT’ TO THE US FROM WESTERN HEMISPHERE

Trump administration expands visa restrictions in Western Hemisphere

Rep. Chip Roy introduces PAUSE Act to halt immigration

Republican Congressman Chip Roy discusses the alarming visa fraud scheme involving 10 Indian nationals who staged armed robberies to exploit immigration laws. Roy introduces the PAUSE Act to temporarily halt all immigration, citing the highest number of foreign-born residents in US history. He slams the Senate for stalling the Save America Act, advocating for immediate legislative action to reform the immigration system amidst rising concerns about foreign nationals.

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The Trump administration on Thursday announced a “significant expansion” of its visa restriction policy in ⁠the Western Hemisphere, targeting people working on behalf of U.S. adversaries.

In its announcement, the State Department said the expanded policy allows it to restrict U.S. visas for people intentionally acting on behalf of adversarial countries to “undermine America’s interests.”

“President Trump’s National Security Strategy makes clear: this Administration will deny adversarial powers the ability to own or control vital assets or threaten the security and prosperity of the United States in our region,” the department said in a press release. “The Department of State is working to advance American leadership in our hemisphere, protect our homeland, and ensure access to vital routes and areas throughout our region.”

Marco Rubio with passports in view; the State Department has introduced updated vetting procedures for visa applicants. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images / istock) (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

“In support of this critical objective, the Department of State is announcing a significant expansion of an existing visa restriction policy that targets those working on behalf of U.S. adversaries to undermine our national interests in our hemisphere, including regional security and democratic sovereignty,” the department continued.

The administration also said that family members of individuals subject to visa restrictions under this policy will not be allowed to enter the U.S.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sitting next to President Donald Trump during a cabinet meeting at the White House.

Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, left, and US President Donald Trump during a cabinet meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026. (Aaron Schwartz/CNP/Bloomberg)

“This expanded policy enables us to restrict U.S. visas for nationals of countries in our region who, while within Western Hemisphere countries and while intentionally acting on behalf of adversarial countries, their agents, or enterprises, knowingly direct, authorize, fund, or provide significant support to, or carry out activities that are adversarial to and undermine America’s interests in our hemisphere. These individuals – and their immediate family members – will be generally ineligible for entry into the United States,” the department said.

Activities the administration has deemed adversarial and that could trigger visa restrictions include enabling adversarial powers to acquire or control key assets and strategic resources in the Western Hemisphere, destabilizing regional security efforts, undermining American economic interests and conducting influence operations designed to weaken the sovereignty and stability of nations in the region.

STATE DEPARTMENT TO ASK FOR BONDS OF UP TO $15,000 FOR VISA APPLICATION FROM A DOZEN MORE COUNTRIES

U.S. passports arranged on a surface in New York

U.S. passports are arranged for a photograph in New York, U.S., on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. A court challenge by federal immigration agents seeking to block President Barack Obama’s deferred-deportation initiative will probably succeed, a judge said. (Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg)