COMPASS-2-Spring 2021 | Page 17

Space tourism isn ’ t out of this world anymore
Taxed to tour ?

Space tourism isn ’ t out of this world anymore

Travelers are getting ready to tackle the next frontier : space . As billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk conduct test flights and draw up construction blueprints , astronaut hopefuls may be able to make their space exploration dreams a reality as soon as 2023 .
ALAN USTER / SHUTTERSTOCK . COM
RESUL MUSLU / SHUTTERSTOCK . COM
GARY HARTLEY
NEW NATIONAL PARKS TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST
One of the oldest rivers in the U . S ., New River Gorge National River , encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of its shorelines . It ’ s a rugged , whitewater river that flows northward through deep and astounding canyons in southern West Virginia . In fact , it continues carving the deepest and longest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains . Want more national park inspiration ? Head to page 84 for secret national parks in the U . S . to explore .

Taxed to tour ?

New tourism taxes were implemented across the world to reduce the impact of overtourism and to put money toward local economies and infrastructures . Amsterdam added an additional $ 3.37 to its 7 % on hotels , Airbnbs and campsites cut of $ 1.12 per night ; Venice , Italy , added $ 11.22 during “ peak hours ”; and if you had any clients visit Japan last year , they paid a little over $ 9 upon departure .
SPRING 2021 / THE COMPASS / 17