This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Weekly Global Roundup

The latest news and trends from around the world

By

Living abroad or planning a move to a new country is an exciting journey, and staying informed about the latest trends and developments is key to making smart and confident decisions. At Escape Artist, we’ve thoughtfully curated this week’s most noteworthy updates to guide and support you on your adventure.

For those seeking a blend of tradition and modernity, Japan is a top pick.
For those seeking a blend of tradition and modernity, Japan is a top pick.

All Eyes on Japan

Japan has emerged as the premier international destination for American travelers in January 2025, with Google reporting a surge in searches for flights to explore its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Close behind, Italy and Costa Rica remain top choices, captivating visitors with their timeless historic charm, picturesque scenery, and eco-tourism experiences.

Costa Rica’s nature is a symphony of life and color.
Costa Rica’s nature is a symphony of life and color.

This Year’s Wanderlust

According to recent travel industry insights, destinations like Greenland, Nicaragua, Alaska, and Kyrgyzstan are poised to become top picks for adventurous travelers in 2025. These regions are drawing attention due to improved travel infrastructure, increased accessibility, and unique cultural or natural experiences that appeal to those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Greenland attracts those in search of unique, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Greenland attracts those in search of unique, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Beyond the Ballot

In the wake of recent political developments, there has been a marked increase in inquiries from American citizens considering relocation to the UK, particularly to London’s upscale districts such as Notting Hill and Chelsea. This trend reflects a desire among some to seek new opportunities and environments abroad in response to domestic political climates.

Data from real estate agents indicates that Americans now make up 14% of foreign buyers registering with London agencies, a significant rise from 5% in 2019, driven in part by favorable exchange rates and the appeal of London’s prime real estate market. However, the absence of an investor visa means many are turning to alternative immigration pathways, such as global talent or spousal visas.

Notting Hill stands as a symbol of London’s sought-after charm.
Notting Hill stands as a symbol of London’s sought-after charm.

The Allure of London

London has been named the top travel destination globally in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. The city offers a blend of historical landmarks, world-class museums, and a dynamic culinary scene, solidifying its appeal to travelers worldwide.

A Turning Tide in Taxation

Recent changes to the UK’s non-domicile rules, as outlined in the latest budget report, present potential benefits for British expatriates. Individuals who have resided abroad for over a decade may now be exempt from the 40% inheritance tax on their foreign assets. This adjustment replaces the traditional “domicile” system with one based on residency, potentially influencing retirement decisions for those considering relocating to more tax-friendly destinations.

Stories Across Borders

For those seeking inspiration, A Quiet Evening: The Travels of Norman Lewis is a treasure trove of vivid storytelling. Spanning five decades, the book captures the essence of vanishing cultures and remote places. This remarkable collection, curated by John Hatt—who rediscovered and republished much of Lewis’s work in the 1980s—offers a profound journey through the world and the writer’s unparalleled perspective.

A selection of Norman Lewis’s most compelling works, handpicked by John Hatt.
A selection of Norman Lewis’s most compelling works, handpicked by John Hatt.

Read more like this: Travel News and Trends

Featured

A typical beachside scene in Bali.
International Living
Porto
The Coming Age of Offshore Banking
Why Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Is a Wise Move
Top 10 Things to Know if You’re Moving to Panama
A Magical Life in Panama
Expatsi scouting trip in Porto, Portugal. All photos courtesy of Jen Barnett and Brett Andrews.
The beautiful beaches on Ambergris Caye. All photos courtesy of the author.
Belize’s San Pedro Island
Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
Wealth Management Family Office
More Escapes From the Norm, Euro Version
The Sweet Medicine of Good Food
Colorful Australian autumn in Mount Lofty, Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Five essential steps for protecting personal assets and ensuring financial security
Digital nomad working at a cafe with a laptop
Escapes From the Norm
Editors’ Welcome

EA Subscribe

TRENDING

Plan B is Essentials in 2025
Weekly Global Roundup
Plan B is Essentials in 2025
Book-reading device
Food, Family, and Love on the Iberian Coast
7 Great Reasons to Move to Nicaragua
Prambanan temple, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
A young woman wearing traditional folkloric dress dances in Oaxaca on cinco de mayo