Turkish Airlines has just announced one of the most ridiculous policies in commercial aviation history. In a move that seems more appropriate for a budget carrier or a dictatorship than a national airline, Turkish Airlines will fine passengers who stand up before the seatbelt sign is turned off. This isn’t satire. This isn’t Ryanair trying […]

Things have gone south between Cambodia and Thailand. Again. This time, it wasn’t just diplomatic back-and-forth or vague threats on state media. On May 27, a Cambodian soldier was shot and killed in a brief firefight near the Dangrek Mountains, an area that’s been contested ever since the French forgot to label their maps properly. […]

Following the recent exciting news that sanctions from the US against Syria will be dropped, Fly Dubai is commencing flights to Syria via the Damascus International Airport. Fly Dubai joins a growing number of airlines in favor of recommencing flights to Syria’s capital. Fly Dubai is commencing flights to Syria, with flights to commence daily. […]

A recent security incident in Wamena, located in the highlands of Indonesian Papua, has prompted closer monitoring by Young Pioneer Tours. While reports indicate a clash between Indonesian military forces and local rebel groups, the situation remains contained for now. Travel into Wamena remains possible, and there are currently no restrictions on entering the town […]

Explore global adventures with Mike O’Kennedy on the Young Pioneer Podcast. Discover insights into North Korea, Iraq, Xinjiang, and more.

South Sudan continues to face significant political instability, with recent reports warning of possible civil unrest. The arrest of the vice president has raised fears of further escalation in a country already struggling with ethnic tensions and internal conflict. While travel is still possible, it’s critical to check South Sudan travel updates to understand the […]

On March 20th 2025 the Republic of Belarus officially launched an eVisa scheme. The new eVisa process allows travellers from 67 countries to apply online for a single entry visa valid for up to 30 days. Belarus has been making significant efforts to boost tourism, particularly among its European neighbours. The new eVisa system doesn’t […]

Exciting news for travellers eyeing an adventure in West Africa: the Liberia Visa on Arrival application portal has been officially launched on March 11th 2025. This new digital visa platform eliminates the need for embassy visits, streamlining the visa application process and making it easier than ever to explore this fascinating country. What is the […]

On February 28th 2025, the Iraq Central Government through the Iraqi Interior Ministry announced an Iraq eVisa update – that there will be an immediate suspension of Visa on Arrival (VOA) applications and instead, a pre travel authorization for visa on arrival needs to be submitted. The changes came into effect immediately. The following countries […]

Please note that as of August 2025, a visa system will recommence and VOA will end, although as of now it is unclear when VOA will be completely removed. Syria has banned the following nationalities from traveling to Syria: Iran, Israel, Iraq and Russian. The new Syria transitional government announced on February 21st 2025 a […]