TSA Quietly Scales Back PreCheck “Gateside” Program: What Travelers Need to Know
For frequent flyers, the introduction of the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program felt like a throwback to a golden era of travel. Allowing trusted travelers to bring non-flying family members or friends past security to gates, shops, and restaurants without a boarding pass offered an exciting new perk.

However, a sudden operational shift has left many travelers wondering about the program’s future.

The Short-Lived Nationwide Expansion
Initially launched as a pilot across 13 U.S. airports, the Gateside program allows approved PreCheck members to request terminal access 1 to 3 days in advance. By early October, travel tracking and industry reports revealed that the program had quietly surged to nearly 300 airports nationwide-all without a major press release or official promotional rollout from the Transportation Security Administration.

The expansion was short-lived. Just as quickly as it grew, the TSA scaled the program back down to its original 13 airports, leaving regional locations off booking portals and catching travel advisors and passengers off guard.

Why Did the TSA Roll Back Gateside?
The agency has not issued a formal, detailed public explanation for the sudden reduction. However, participating locations (such as Denver International Airport) confirmed to aviation reporters that operations were returned to the initial cohort while officials evaluate checkpoint volume, security postures, and resource allocation.

While the official TSA portal still maintains that the program will eventually roll out to more airports in the coming months, no specific timeline has been provided.

Where Can You Still Use Gateside Right Now?
If you are planning to use the benefit, you must verify that your departure or meeting hub is on the active list. As of right now, the program is strictly bookable at these 13 original airports:

Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) – Arizona

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) – Ohio

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – Michigan

Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) – Kansas

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – Indiana

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Nevada

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – California

Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) – Arkansas

Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) – Oklahoma

Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Nebraska

San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah

For travelers hoping to greet loved ones at the gate or enjoy terminal amenities together, it is best to check the official TSA Gateside Portal before making any travel coordination plans.

Volunteer vacations around the world, explore our programs at www.globeaware.org

Source and reporting details adapted from Travel Agent Central.

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As global tourism shifts toward less crowded, off-the-beaten-path locations, travelers are increasingly seeking out underrated gems for their upcoming getaways. Based on Expedia’s Unpack ’27 Travel Trends report, flight and lodging search data reveal significant surges in year-over-year interest for places offering distinct natural, cultural, and culinary experiences. Leading the trend is South Lake Tahoe, California (up 195%), followed by Hyogo, Japan (95%), Punta del Este, Uruguay (65%), and Sedona, Arizona (55%).

Other notable hotspots experiencing double-digit search growth include Busan, South Korea (50%), the car-free island of Holbox, Mexico (45%), Perugia, Italy (35%), The Tweed in Australia (35%), Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada (35%), and historic Chichester, UK (30%). From hot springs and red-rock wellness retreats to coastal street art and farm-to-table food regions, these emerging destinations reflect a broader consumer preference for tranquil, immersive, and authentic travel experiences.

Globe Aware Mexico is a unique volunteer vacation program, available for 20207!

Source: Originally reported by Zach Wichter for Expedia / Stacker, published on KEYT News Channel 3-12.

The post Where to Travel in 2027: Top 10 Rising Destinations Beyond the Crowds appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

The most meaningful legacy we leave behind isn’t measured by the stamps in our passport—it’s found in the compassion we share and the lasting difference we make in the communities we visit.

Travel has an incredible power to shift our perspective. But when we transition from traditional tourism to intentional, community-led service, our journeys become much more than a vacation. They become catalysts for global connection.

In this inspiring episode of Speaking of Travel, host Marilyn Ball sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore how purposeful travel can change lives—both abroad and at home.

Why Volunteer Travel Matters More Than Ever

Founded in 2000, Globe Aware is a nonprofit organization dedicated to organizing short-term, community-led volunteer vacation programs. Unlike conventional voluntourism that can sometimes do more harm than good, Globe Aware focuses on projects entirely shaped and requested by the host communities themselves.

During their conversation, Marilyn and Kimberly discuss:

• True Community Partnership: How Globe Aware ensures that service projects—ranging from environmental stewardship and educational support to cultural preservation—truly benefit the local population.
• Shifting Perspectives: How stepping out of our comfort zones and working shoulder-to-shoulder with locals broadens our worldview.
• Living with Greater Purpose: How immersive travel experiences inspire travelers to bring a spirit of empathy and active stewardship back into their everyday lives.

“Travel can change the way we see the world. But sometimes the most extraordinary journeys are about the people we meet and the understanding that grows when we make room for someone else’s world.”

Key Takeaways for Savvy Travelers

If you are looking to move beyond standard sightseeing and incorporate genuine impact into your next trip, keep these principles in mind:

1. Listen First: Sustainable travel begins by asking local leaders what they actually need, rather than assuming what problems need to be solved.
2. Embrace Cultural Immersion: Real connection happens when you immerse yourself in daily community life, share meals, and work collaboratively.
3. Be a Force for Good: Remember that every traveler has the opportunity to leave a destination better than they found it.

Connect and Explore Further

Ready to dive deeper into meaningful travel? Explore these resources mentioned in the episode:

• Visit the official Globe Aware Website to learn about upcoming volunteer programs and staff.
• Discover more inspiring stories, interviews, and tips for conscious explorers at Speaking of Travel.

The post Kimberly Haley-Coleman and Globe Aware: Making Travel a Force for Good appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

The Real Africa: A Father-Daughter Journey Through Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls
When looking for a truly meaningful travel experience, the difference between lounging at a resort and actively participating in local conservation and community work is night and day.

In this heartfelt volunteer review, returning volunteer Jeffrey shares his experience on his recent Globe Aware trip to Zimbabwe alongside his daughter. From spending two immersive days working at a local school to participating in the annual Hwange National Park Game Count-complete with unforgettable up-close elephant encounters-Jeffrey details what it truly means to experience “The Real Africa.”

Read on for his firsthand account of the journey, including his stay at Victoria Falls!

“As you know, my daughter skipped the Game Count and the school visit last year.  I can tell you that she was blown away by the full-tour this year.  The differences between visiting Victoria Falls and lounging in a resort for a week, and working at the school, then being at the pan for the Game Count, are night and day.  She expressed how she had seen “The Real Africa” on this version of the trip.  The opportunity to spend two (very full) days at the school, to make friends with the children, and to do something to improve their lives, was extraordinary.  Then – add to that the full-on pre-count meeting with people from Great Britain, Australia, and Zimbabwe locals, and then – THE GAME COUNT. 

Those folks were so kind and generous – offering advice on where to set up safely at the pan, what we might see, what they could offer us in the way of restrooms, a drink, or assistance.  They checked in on us during one of their game drives the first evening, and seeing that we were set up properly and safely didn’t bother us at all.  The next day, they were as excited as we were to hear the results of our count.  They were unaware that they had Waterbuck at that pan, or that the Omega male elephants were banding together in groups of four to five.  

So, yes.  This year was special.  It was special because, again, I got to experience the “real” Africa.  Up close.  Personal, and sometimes in-your-face —

Or behind the Land Rover.  Lol!  We had two very large male elephants sneak up behind us to see who and what we were.  Have you been sniffed by a 6-ton male elephant?  I can’t believe how quiet they can be.  We were merrily counting away, look over there, see that one coming from the west – when “sniff,” “sniff’ WHAT?!?  How did he get behind us?  OMG!  Once we noticed them, they ran away in terror, but what a rush to have them that close.  

A few words about the Victoria Falls lodging. It had 6,500 acres of private game preserve.  Eight buildings split into two rooms each, a large office and meal center, and the SPA! The rooms are spectacular.  Very large, amazingly comfortable.  With your own personal covered patio, ours overlooked a lovely water feature and their private pan.  We had elephant, giraffe, eland, impala, baboons, bushbuck, hornbills, banded mongoose, guinea fowl, etc., all separated from us by a discreet electrical fence.  The couple in the room next to ours had a young leopard looking in their patio window one morning.  Each morning at breakfast, we could gaze on the pan and see who we were having breakfast with this morning.  The service was outstanding.  We made friends with the staff quickly, and they helped us to learn more of the local languages.  They learned our tastes after the first day, and knew how I liked my meals or my gin-and-tonic.  I can’t imagine staying anywhere else next year.  And who would do a Game Drive with them after the Game Count at Hwange?  Well, we went the extra mile to make sure we sampled all their available services and did the Game Drive with the Boma supper at their private camp afterward.  Four guests, and amazing food and wines.  I would give them six stars if that were possible. 

We did our best to test things for you, so we can attest that the pool is excellent, but don’t leave your stuff on a chair because the baboons that are right over there can and will take your shirt, sunglasses, or that new iPhone.  And the Spa is heavenly.  We each did a massage there with a foot scrub and other fun treatments.  I can highly recommend!  Again, don’t leave your shirt or your shoes at the spa.  Or the bar, for that matter.  We didn’t lose anything, but the baboons were there.  We did request the personal mongoose escort to supper after seeing thirty-five of them outside our room daily.  No need to worry about spiders, snakes, or anything else with thirty-five mongooses checking the perimeter daily.  

The trip was special.  Yes, the travel to get to Zimbabwe was long and hard.  Thirty-five hours for me, thirty-eight for my daughter, each way.  But – AFRICA!.  My plan is to print some of my photos from the last three trips, and I thought it would be fun to put a sound-bite at the bottom of them.  You know, Paris – Where Love is Towering…  So, my daughter and I were trying to find the right sound-bite to sum up such an adventure.  I don’t know that we have settled on one yet, but one idea was:  “You Leave a Piece of Yourself in Africa.”  Lol!  I think my daughter is making up T-shirts with a large female matriarch elephant that say: It’s Time For a Matriarchy.  

Hear, hear!

Thanks for the great adventure.  I hope you all can join us next year!”

Jeffrey Burtner, Game Count Zimbabwe, September 2026

Ready to Experience the Real Africa?

Ready to Experience the Real Africa?
Jeffrey’s story is a reminder of how immersive volunteering can transform a travel experience into something special. Whether it’s connecting with students at local schools, contributing to vital wildlife counts in Hwange National Park, or discovering the natural wonders around Victoria Falls, every journey leaves a lasting impact.

Learn more about the 2027 Game Count!

The post Volunteer Review: Experiencing the Real Africa on the Hwange Game Count & Victoria Falls appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Travel is back in full swing, but so are the clever tactics used by scammers targeting unsuspecting tourists in airports around the world. In a recent episode of the Globe Aware Adventures in Service podcast, host and intern Pei dives into the hidden risks travelers face before even leaving the terminal. From rogue Wi-Fi connections to deceptive exchange counters, the episode highlights why fatigue and unfamiliar surroundings leave even seasoned jetsetters vulnerable-and how smart awareness keeps your trip on track.

Why Travelers Fall for Airport Scams

Most trips go smoothly, but airports create a unique environment where scams thrive:

• Fatigue and Jet Lag: Long flights and time zone shifts slow down response times and lower alertness.
• Distraction and Rushing: Managing luggage, tracking gate changes, and keeping travel documents handy make it easy to miss red flags.
• Unfamiliar Environments: Being in a new city or country means travelers often don’t know what official badges, standard prices, or authentic networks look like.

Common Scams Highlighted in the Episode

The episode breaks down how several widespread schemes operate across global airports:

• Fake Airport Wi-Fi Networks: Rogue hotspots designed to look like free public Wi-Fi to intercept personal data.
• Boarding Pass Fraud: Exploiting discarded or exposed travel passes to access personal details.
• Unofficial “Helpers”: Individuals posing as assistants at baggage claim or kiosks before demanding steep fees.
• Overpriced Taxis: Unregulated drivers taking advantage of arriving passengers.
• Misleading Currency Exchange Counters: Kiosks using hidden fees or unfavorable rates.

Stay Prepared, Not Paranoid

The core takeaway from Pei’s breakdown isn’t to make travelers fearful, but rather to encourage simple, proactive awareness. Knowing how these scams work and why they are effective empowers you to spot risks instantly, protecting your peace of mind while heading abroad this summer.

Connect to Humanity with Globe Aware

Looking to take your travel experience deeper? Turn your next journey into an unforgettable impact trip! Connect with humanity on a one-week volunteer adventure in service with Globe Aware.

Explore Volunteer Programs: www.globeaware.org

The post Don’t Let These Airport Scams Happen To You! Globe Aware Podcast appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Imagine combining the thrill of international adventure with the fulfillment of making a tangible difference in the world. That is the driving mission behind Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing short-term volunteer vacations across more than 25 countries.

In a recent podcast episode-S45 E01: Travel with Purpose-host Global Giving sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to discuss how travel can become a powerful force for good.

What Are Volunteer Vacations?

Volunteer vacations turn standard travel into an opportunity for service, cultural immersion, and mutual learning. Instead of passive sightseeing, travelers work side-by-side as equals with local communities on projects chosen and led by the host destinations.

Key features of Globe Aware’s “adventure in service” trips include:

Short-Term Commitments: One-week, fully coordinated experiences designed to fit into busy work and family schedules.

Hands-On Impact: Projects ranging from building homes and installing concrete floors for single mothers to assembling wheelchairs for landmine victims.

Cultural Immersion: Opportunities like taking wildlife counts under the full moon in Zimbabwe or connecting deeply with local cultures in Costa Rica and Kenya.

Sustainability & Equity: Focus on projects that promote long-term sustainability and cultural respect while treating locals as equal partners.

Why Showing Up Matters: Moving Beyond the Checkbook.

A central focus of Kimberly’s conversation is the debate over direct financial aid versus hands-on volunteer work. While donating money plays an important role, physically showing up creates human connection and trust that money alone cannot buy. Service work transforms both the giver and the community receiving support. By working together on sustainable, local-led initiatives, volunteers gain practical perspective on international development and leave a lasting positive impact.

Ethical Travel: What Good Service Looks Like

Ethical volunteer travel requires careful planning, community partnership, and cultural humility. Under Kimberly’s leadership, Globe Aware ensures that every program meets high ethical standards:

Community-Driven Choice: Local communities choose the project type and methodology.

Safety and Organization: Trips are fully coordinated from start to finish to ensure safety, efficacy, and meaningful cultural engagement.

True Equality: Volunteers serve alongside community members as peers rather than outside supervisors.

Meet the Founder:

Kimberly Haley-Coleman brings a wealth of international leadership experience to the nonprofit sector. Founded in 2000, Globe Aware stems from her background in international business development and finance, having previously held key roles at CNBC.com, Space Services International, and Investtools.

Her accomplishments include:Education: MBA in International Business, MA in Art History, and a BA from Emory University.

Leadership Roles: Chairman of the Executive Board for the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA).

Recognitions: Recipient of the Texas Business Hall of Fame Award and long-time Hall of Fame member, SMU Guest Lecturer, and multiple-patent holder.

Advisory Roles: Active engagement with the Building Bridges Coalition and the United Nations ECOSOC Consultative Status Committee. Ready to Make Your Next Trip Count?

If you are looking to rethink how you travel and want your next journey to be both thrilling and impactful, a short-term volunteer vacation might be your ideal next step.

Listen to the Full Episode: Check out S45 E01: Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware on your favorite podcast platform (17 min 49 sec).

Learn More & Book: Visit Globe Aware to explore upcoming volunteer programs across 26 countries.

The post Travel with Purpose Podcast – Global Giving: How Globe Aware Is Redefining Volunteer Vacations appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Are you looking for a unique family volunteering experience… say, in the Philippines? Read about a volunteer, Jenny Trusa’s week-long volunteer experience in Nueva Ecija with her family. From renovating classrooms and baking Filipino bread to cooking traditional meals at a local children’s home, here is her day-by-day reflection on how voluntourism with kids transformed her perspective on gratitude, community, and connection.

Good day!
My name is Jenny Trusa, and I am thrilled to share our incredible volunteer experience in Nueva Ecija last week. My family and I had the privilege of dedicating our time and efforts to a meaningful cause, and it was nothing short of unforgettable.

First and foremost, Don, our daughters, and I had an absolutely wonderful volunteer trip; it was enriching, inspiring, and filled with joy. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by our dedicated coordinator, Ge-ge, and her lovely family, who hosted us in their home. Their kindness and generosity made a lasting impression on us.

We cannot thank Ge-ge enough for her incredible hospitality and excellent coordination. She went above and beyond to ensure that our experience was seamless and enjoyable. Not only was she incredibly organized, but she also treated us with genuine warmth and kindness, making us feel at home every single day. Her family embraced us wholeheartedly, caring for our daughters as if they were their own, something Don and I deeply appreciated.

Throughout our stay, we were touched by the warmth and sincerity of the entire community. The people we met were kind, welcoming, and full of life. Their generosity and hospitality made us feel like family, and the bonds we formed will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Our time in Nueva Ecija was documented through a series of reflections and experiences, each of which deepened our appreciation for the power of kindness, gratitude, and connection. 

Here’s a glimpse into our journey: 

**DAY 1 – Gratitude Snapshot**
*Name one thing for which you are grateful.*

As a family, we are incredibly grateful for the better lifestyle we have and the opportunity to give back. Our children, ages 7 and 9, were especially thankful to meet our host family and be welcomed with open arms into the local community. They were overjoyed to make new friends, play traditional games, and experience the kindness and generosity of the local children. Seeing them laugh and play so freely reminded us how human connection transcends borders and backgrounds.

**Day 2 – Moments That Mattered**
*Describe a moment from today that made you smile or feel something deeply.*

Today, while working at a school project site, painting classrooms and constructing blackboards. We were struck by the reality of the school’s condition. The chairs were broken, the classroom was scorching hot despite having three electric fans, and yet the children were so happy, so full of joy. They didn’t complain. They embraced their circumstances with contentment, and that moved us deeply.

Our kids spent the day playing with local children, running around as if they had known each other forever. The pure and simple happiness on their faces made our hearts so full. It reminded us that joy isn’t about material things; it’s found in the connections we make and the love we share.


**Day 3 – Acts of Kindness**
*What’s one kind thing you saw someone do today or that you did for someone else?*

Today, we baked traditional Filipino bread and distributed it to the community. It was a small gesture, but seeing people’s faces light up as they received a warm piece of bread was deeply fulfilling. It reminded us that kindness doesn’t have to be grand it can be as simple as sharing food, offering a smile, or making someone feel valued.

What touched us even more was how the locals, even those with little to spare, shared their own small acts of kindness. Whether it was helping a neighbor carry groceries or offering a kind word, generosity flowed so naturally among them.


**Day 4 – Personal Growth Check-In**
*What challenged you today? How did you grow because of it?*

Visiting the orphanage was an eye-opening experience. We met 23 beautiful children, each full of hope and joy despite the hardships they face. We wanted to do something special for them, so we prepared lunch meals. The biggest challenge was cooking using the traditional *Kalan de Uling*, an earthenware stove where firewood or charcoal is used instead of gas. Getting the fire going and strong enough to cook was difficult, but with the guidance of our wonderful host family, we made it happen!

It turned into a fun bonding moment; we cooked as a team, laughed through the struggles, and finally served *adobong baboy* (pork adobo), the children’s favorite Filipino dish. Their excitement and gratitude made every effort worthwhile. Today, we learned that challenges can turn into beautiful memories when faced with patience, teamwork, and a shared purpose.


**Day 5 – Local Lens**
*What’s one thing you admired or learned from the local community today?*

One of the most beautiful things we witnessed in the local community was their unwavering kindness. Despite life’s challenges, they continuously show up for one another, offering support and warmth without hesitation.

From the very first day, we felt like family, even though we had just met. The people here genuinely care about each other’s well-being, creating a strong sense of togetherness. It’s a place where neighbors look after each other, where smiles and laughter are abundant, and where generosity flows effortlessly.

We also admired how safe and peaceful it felt, walking through the streets, we could feel the trust and love woven into the fabric of the community. It’s a powerful reminder that a strong and connected community is one of the greatest gifts in life.


**Day 6 – Beyond the Self**
*How did today’s experience shift your perspective about the world or your place in it?*

Our experiences over the past days have shifted our perspective in a way we never expected. We realize now how truly fortunate we are. Not just in what we have, but in the opportunities we’ve been given. Meeting people who live with so much joy despite having less has humbled us beyond words.

We’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from material wealth but from a heart full of love, gratitude, and connection. The world feels bigger and yet more intimate now; we see it not as separate places but as one shared home, where kindness and generosity bridge all differences.

We leave this experience with hearts full and a renewed commitment to living with more compassion, gratitude, and openness.


**Day 7 – Forward Thinking**
*What’s one small change you’d like to bring into your life back home as a result of this experience?*

One change we want to bring into our lives is a deeper, daily appreciation for what we have. Seeing families who live with less, yet radiate happiness, reminded us that we should never take anything for granted.

We want to simplify our lives, spend more time together, give more freely, and build stronger connections in our own community. We also want to teach our children that kindness, gratitude, and human connection are far more important than possessions.

This experience has changed us, and we hope to carry this newfound perspective into our everyday lives, making small but meaningful changes that will last a lifetime. – Volunteer Jenny Trusa

Ready to head to the Philippines with family? Learn more here!

The post The Ultimate Family Volunteer Vacation Experience: 7 Days in Nueva Ecija, Philippines with Globe Aware appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

Navigating airports efficiently can make or break your travel experience. Long security lines and chaotic terminals often cause unnecessary stress before your journey even begins. In this exciting episode of the Globe Aware Adventures in Service podcast, host Pei Zhong shares unexpected airport hacks designed to save you time and hassle, whether you are flying solo or embarking on a volunteer vacation.

Discover surprising strategies that most travelers completely overlook. Learn about essential items that dramatically speed up your journey, unexpected things you should photograph before taking off, and insider secrets to bypass common delays. These quick six minute travel tips will completely transform how you prepare for your next flight.

Ready to explore the world and connect with new cultures? Tune in to the full episode for game changing advice, then visit www.globeaware.org to plan your next meaningful travel adventure.

Listen Here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JhET9CdRfM9YXbTpAwf9C?si=acfaa871f24c4edd

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https://abcnews.com/GMA/Travel/tsa-launches-program-allowing-travelers-past-security/story?id=136258039

The TSA has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a new initiative that allows non-ticketed TSA PreCheck members past airport security checkpoints to meet arriving loved ones, say goodbye at the gate, or enjoy terminal dining and shopping. What do you think of this new initiative?

The post TSA launches program allowing non-travelers past security appeared first on Volunteer Vacations Blog.

https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2026/09/09/christmas-comes-early-in-the-philippines-as-ber-months-kick-off-four-month-countdown/234414

The Philippines has officially kicked off its famous four-month Christmas celebration with the arrival of the “ber months.” Filipinos embrace this long-standing tradition to bring joy, relief, and a sense of hope amidst economic and seasonal challenges. Globe Aware volunteers can experience this unique cultural holiday spirit firsthand by joining a volunteer vacation in the region: www.globeaware.org.

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