UpdateAug 15, 2026 · Airlines
Mount Etna has been erupting since 7 August 2026, sending ash plumes over eastern Sicily and repeatedly shutting Catania–Fontanarossa airport — most recently until 2am on 15 August. Over 250 flights have been diverted and cancellations are estimated in the hundreds. There's no blanket advisory against visiting Sicily, but check your flight status directly with your airline before heading to the airport, and expect diversions to Palermo, Trapani, Comiso or Rome.
Aug 11, 2026 · Visa rules
Georgia now requires health & accident insurance for every tourist
Since 1 January 2026, all visitors to Georgia — visa-free or not — must carry health and accident insurance covering their full stay, with minimum coverage of 30,000 GEL (~$11,000).
Aug 11, 2026 · Visa rules
Japan tightens visa-document requirements for Russian applicants
The Embassy of Japan in Russia has updated its tourist-visa checklist, tightening proof of income and employment. A visa remains mandatory for Russian citizens; applications go through the JVAC centre (VFS Global) in Moscow.