Revolutionizing Travel: Unveiling the World's First Digital Passport System

Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travels weekly newsletter, and stay updated on the latest aviation news, culinary delights, recommended accommodations, and other travel developments. This week's travel news highlights include why the present moment is ideal for exploring Europe, which Caribbean islands to include on your bucket list, and the Nordic country setting an example with digital passports.

The future of travel tech

Digital passports are here! But only if youre a Finn flying from Helsinki to Britain.

The Finnish Border Guard has introduced a pioneering pilot scheme, allowing passengers on select Finnair flights to expedite their border control process by pre-registering a digital copy of their passport. This innovation is expected to inspire other nations to implement similar measures.

Just last week, Singapore's Changi Airport made an exciting announcement - by 2024, it will eliminate the need for passports. This new development adds to the array of travel privileges that Singaporeans already enjoy, including visa-free access and visa-on-demand services to a greater number of destinations compared to citizens from any other country or city-state. It is no wonder that Singapore's passport holds the top position on the 2023 list of the world's "most powerful" passports.

Welcome to fall

Prepare yourself with a turtleneck, pack your suitcase with gourds, and take hold of your pumpkin latte – Fall is the preferred time for stylish travelers.

During this season, Europe's finest destinations exude a relaxed atmosphere following the busy summer period, allowing visitors to select between warm beach temperatures or delightful harvest festivals.

Experience the delightful harmony where roadways and natural beauty intersect, particularly during the vibrant display of autumn foliage. Explore six captivating scenic drives throughout the United States. Whether you plan to immerse yourself in the enchanting russets and ochers of the woods, CNN Underscored, a CNN-owned product reviews and recommendations guide, offers a comprehensive list of essential items, ranging from picnic backpacks to waterproof binoculars.

Raise a toast to the memory of one of England's most-beloved trees, a sycamore that graced the UNESCO-listed Hadrian's Wall for over two centuries and even shared the silver screen with Kevin Costner in "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." Tragically, this iconic tree was cut down, a heart-wrenching act of vandalism that will forever be mourned.

Caribbean islands

October is considered the low season in the Caribbean, making it a great opportunity to find great deals on islands that are not affected by hurricanes, such as Bonaire. This beautiful Dutch Caribbean destination is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving and boasts over 20 stunning beaches spread across its 111 square miles.

If you're planning a trip to the Caribbean between December and April, which is the high season and offers the driest weather, it can be overwhelming to choose just one island to visit among the hundreds available. To make your decision easier, we have carefully selected nine of the best islands for you to consider, keeping in mind that it's difficult to make a wrong choice in the enchanting turquoise paradise of the Caribbean.

Restaurants and hotels

Spain boasts the highest number of the world's 50 best restaurants, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. Here's our comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the culinary delights that await you in Spain.

But if you are more passionate about thread count than bread count, consider visiting London. The city has recently introduced two magnificent hotels that are worth exploring. The iconic war office in Whitehall, once utilized by Winston Churchill, has undergone a remarkable transformation and now stands as the luxurious Raffles London. Additionally, the esteemed Peninsula chain from Asia has finally made its debut in the capital of the United Kingdom, conveniently located near Hyde Park. Be prepared to be astounded as prices for these exceptional accommodations start at a staggering $1,600 per night.

Feathered friends

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See why tourists flock from around the world to watch these famous ducks

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The Tower of London may have its ravenmaster, but The Peabody hotel in Memphis boasts a duckmaster as well. This unique role involves guiding five waterfowls from their rooftop Duck Palace on a daily parade to the hotel lobby. For the past 90 years, this captivating ceremony has attracted countless tourists.

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