In this episode of the Globe Aware podcast, summer intern Santiago López sits down with former volunteer Nancy to learn about the many adventures she’s experienced while participating in nearly every program Globe Aware offers! From unforgettable moments abroad to valuable travel tips, Nancy shares her stories, insights, and advice for future volunteers. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and what keeps her coming back for more.
Globe Aware volunteers and all other travelers will no longer need to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints. This confirmed change began July 8th, officially ending the long-standing TSA policy.
Zach Wichter
USA TODAY
July 14, 2025
Passengers are no longer required to remove their shoes at TSA checkpoints.
Kristi Noem, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Transportation Security Administration, announced in a news conference July 8 that the long-standing policy requiring most passengers to remove their shoes at TSA checkpoints is no longer in effect.
Summer travel can present added challenges for parents of children with autism, from disrupted routines to sensory sensitivities and unfamiliar settings. Globe Aware volunteers and families can benefit from these tips to help make travel more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Journal Record
July 8, 2025
Summer has arrived, and families are taking to the roads and the air for vacations. Most parents know well the typical trials of family travel — children seem to become needier and more easily bored when they are removed from their natural habitats.
For many retirees, leaving the workforce can lead to unexpected questions about purpose and connection. Globe Aware volunteers discover how volunteering can bring fulfillment, community, and renewed meaning.
By Beverly Bird
June 30, 2025
Investopedia
Vikki Velasquez is a researcher and writer who has managed, coordinated, and directed various community and nonprofit organizations. She has conducted in-depth research on social and economic issues and has also revised and edited educational materials for the Greater Richmond area.
The monsoon season is beautiful but can be unpredictable. Packing the right items can keep your Globe Aware volunteer vacation safe, dry, and stress-free.
The monsoon season is beautiful but can be unpredictable. Packing the right items can keep your trip safe, dry, and stress-free.
A monsoon trip is special: fresh green views, cool breezes, and light showers can make your holiday memorable. But rain also brings muddy roads, wet clothes, and sudden weather changes.
Another reminder for our Globe Aware volunteers, as this takes effect this week! Cuba now requires all international travelers to apply for a visa online before boarding their flight.
June 30, 2025
Travel and Tour World
Cuba, a country with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, has announced a significant change to its entry process for international travelers. As the nation faces numerous challenges within its tourism sector, Cuba will introduce an e-Visa system starting July 1, 2025. This new entry protocol, aimed at modernizing the immigration process, will require travelers from nearly every country to apply for an electronic visa before arriving. Here’s everything you need to know about Cuba’s new e-Visa system and how it affects international visitors.
This Fourth of July is shaping up to be one of the busiest travel periods, with over 72 million Americans expected to hit the road or skies. Globe Aware volunteers, here’s how you can make the most of the long weekend when it comes to travel.
Kathleen Wong
USA TODAY
June 23, 2025
A record 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel domestically for the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Driving remains the most popular mode of transportation, but air travel is also expected to hit record numbers.
Travelers can find tips on the best and worst times to drive to avoid holiday traffic congestion.
Summer travelers, gear up. This Fourth of July is going to be a busy one.
With the 2025 hurricane season underway, experts warn it could bring some of the strongest storms yet, which could be a concern for Globe Aware volunteers planning to travel. Here’s what to know.
This season’s hurricanes could reach the “strongest” categories of storms.
By Michael Cappetta
June 9, 2025
Travel + Leisure
With the 2025 hurricane season officially kicking off, experts are sounding the alarm that this year could bring the “strongest” of potential storms.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently published its annual forecast for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, and the data shows a 60 percent chance of an above-normal season. As part of the forecast, the agency predicts as many as 19 named storms, including five major storms that are category three or higher, according to the report.
Numerous factors can disrupt your digestion while traveling. Globe Aware volunteers aren’t alone if their stomachs act up on the road; here’s what a recent survey reveals.
A new survey reveals 51 percent of travelers experience “digestive changes” while traveling.
By Stacey Leasca
June 6, 2025
Travel + Leisure
There are a lot of things that can throw off your digestion while traveling. From the airplane ride itself to eating new foods in your destination that are far from your typical meals, it’s no surprise when our tummies get a little upset. The key thing to know here is that it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, a new QS Supplies survey shows that 51 percent of travelers experience “digestive changes” while traveling. But that’s not the wildest stat it found.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to volunteer with Globe Aware, don’t miss this special extended 3.5-hour podcast episode from one of our favorite returning volunteers, Drew Drew Lombardi. In this thoughtful, unscripted conversation, Drew offers a raw, insightful, and personal look at his time on our Philippines program—capturing the culture, the challenges, the connections, and the sheer joy of service.
