
01
Applying for a passport is about to change: Here's what we know
The gist: First-time applicants will eventually be able to apply for a passport fully online, while a new passport design is expected to arrive in 2028.
Big pictureThe changes aim to make passport applications simpler and more digital, especially for people applying for the first time. The passport itself will also get a more decorative design featuring U.S. history and national symbols.
Explain like I'm 5Getting your first passport may become more like filling out an online form than visiting an office. You could send in your photo, pay online and watch the application move along on a tracker.
Why it matters nowThe administration has announced the changes alongside the launch of the America.gov platform. The online passport process is slated to be available by the end of 2027, with the redesigned passport expected in 2028.
Three things to know01First applications go online
The new system is intended for first-time applicants, who have traditionally needed to apply in person at an authorized facility.
02The system handles key steps
Applicants will be able to use pre-filled government information, upload a photo from their device, make online payments and receive real-time status updates.
03Old passports remain valid
People will not need to replace an existing passport early because the current design remains usable until the expiration date printed in it.
Trusted source
The Points Guy ↗

02
One of Europe's Oldest Cities Is Also an Amazing, Underrated Place to Eat
The gist: Cádiz, founded around 1200 B.C., is an underrated food destination known for fresh seafood, sherry, tapas and regional specialties.
Big pictureThe city sits at the center of Cádiz province, a region shaped by Atlantic seafood, bluefin tuna, sherry and long-standing food traditions. Its compact historic streets and everyday markets offer a less famous but highly varied alternative to better-known Andalusian destinations.
Explain like I'm 5Cádiz is like a very old seaside kitchen where the ocean supplies the main ingredients. You can eat fancy Michelin-starred dishes or simple fried fish and tapas.
Why it matters nowCádiz’s profile has risen since Código de Barra became the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant in 2023, while nearby Jerez was recently named Spain’s capital of Gastronomy.
Three things to know01Markets connect diners to fishermen
At Mercado de Abastos, shoppers can buy fish from vendors and take it to nearby Bar Carrusel to be fried for only the cover charge.
02Tuna follows ancient methods
Near Cádiz, Barbate’s prized bluefin is caught with almadraba nets, a complex technique dating back to the Phoenicians, and about 70 percent is exported to Japan.
03Sherry shapes the food culture
The surrounding sherry triangle links Cádiz’s restaurants and taverns with Jerez, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto, whose wines are paired with seafood, cheese, tapas and cured meats.
Trusted source
Condé Nast Traveler ↗

03
How to choose a credit card for airport lounge access
The gist: The best airport-lounge credit card depends on where you fly most, which airline you use, and whether you value airline-specific or issuer lounges.
Big pictureAirport lounge access is no longer a one-size-fits-all perk because airlines and card issuers offer different networks, rules, and guest benefits. A card can be valuable only if its lounges match your usual airports and flights.
Explain like I'm 5A lounge card is like a key, but different keys open different airport rooms. Pick the key that works where you travel most, not just the one with the fanciest room.
Why it matters nowMore card issuers are building lounge networks, while some cards have tightened guest access or capped visits. Travelers now need to compare specific airports and access rules before choosing a card.
Three things to know01Your home airport matters most
A lounge at the airport you use regularly can be more useful than a larger network you rarely encounter.
02Airline loyalty narrows choices
American, Delta, and United flyers can choose cards tied to their airline lounges, while Southwest travelers may prefer broader issuer access.
03Visit limits can change value
Delta Reserve cards provide 15 Sky Club visits yearly, with unlimited access requiring $75,000 in eligible annual spending.
Trusted source
The Points Guy ↗