Spring is in the air, and around the planet there are patient tourism rebuilds, newly proposed regulations, schedule revisions, and respect for planet earth.

Let’s visit a few of these “R’s”   

REBUILD

France has a massive rebuild underway.  
After more than two years of work on the masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Notre Dame, is stable and secured enough for artisans to start rebuilding it. France has chosen to restore the vanished shapes of the cathedral and use the materials and construction methods of medieval times. The roofs oak framework that stood for 850 years, will again be made from oak. The exciting news that the 200-foot-high spire added in the 19 century is expected to grace Paris’ sky later this year. Every day in Paris and across the country, about 1000 people work to rebuild Notre Dame.     
The reconstruction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is on track to reopen to visitors at the end of 2024. This labour of l'amour, is part of springtime, and every season in Paris.

REGULATION

Taking care of Hawaii’s unique natural environment takes time, people, and money. There is a proposed bill that would require anyone 15 years and older to purchase an annual license to visit “forests, parks, trails or other natural area on state land,” currently before Congress.  
I hope Hawaii's leaders follow the example of other tourism hotspots, that have imposed similar fees or taxes.
Statistics make a strong case for the proposed regulation:

  • Over the past decade, hiking in Hawaii has increased by 50%
  • 1.4 million people live in Hawaii
  • 9 to 10 million visit Hawaii annually

Asking visitors that use Hawaii’s great outdoors, to help to preserve these beautiful Pacific Islands sounds like a great decision to me.

REVISED
Rather than seasonal, Icelandair has announced a year-round schedule for their 2023-2024 winter season. Four flights a week will be available from Vancouver International Airport to Reykjavik: Icelandair’s hub. 2024 Valentines Day or Spring Break in Iceland breaks all the rules of ‘going south.’ Maybe it’s time to revise WHEN to visit Iceland?   

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NOW, some TRASHY NEWS

SAF, Sustainable Aviation Fuel – is an alternative to conventional jet fuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with air travel compared to conventional jet fuel alone. This fuel can be made from garbage, agricultural waste and, in the future, could be made from other feedstocks, including household trash or forest waste.

Airlines are investing millions into SAF research. YAY! 

I love United Airlines promotion of their sustainable campaign. They’ve hired a ‘Chief Trash Officer’ to lead the campaign, and who better to hire than Sesame Street’s Oscar the Grouch.

Check out YouTube’s “United Airlines Chief Trash Officer”, because what’s more fun than a green ‘muppet’ to explain the technology of turning trash into fuel!


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Spring bulbs are appearing and (thankfully) we’re wearing less layers. Maybe even no socks! 

Enjoy the longer days, enjoy the warmth of spring days, have fun along the way, and always take good care of yourself. 

Yours In Travel
xo Diane