This week in travel news: US aviation faces another crisis, China reopens its borders, and Mussolini’s influence on Italy’s history is revisited.

In this week's travel update: China reopens to international travelers, US aviation experiences another major disruption, and Italy’s historical appeal for enthusiasts is explored.

Aviation chaos strikes again

Once again, the US aviation system is in turmoil. A nationwide ground stop was enacted after a critical system failure halted domestic flight departures, leaving travelers stranded. Meanwhile, federal authorities continue to address a growing list of complaints stemming from Southwest Airlines' holiday travel fiasco.

In Bengaluru, India, a group of passengers found themselves left behind on a shuttle bus while their flight took off without them. Meanwhile, earlier this month, a teen pilot had to make an emergency landing on a California highway after a flight with family members went awry.

It’s not all doom and gloom, however. Delta Air Lines will begin offering complimentary Wi-Fi on February 1, and new aircraft, long awaited by many, could soon be soaring through the skies.

Exploring Italy through its historic landmarks

A recently restored Pompeii home, believed to have been owned by two freed slaves before being buried in the catastrophic eruption of 79 CE, has reopened to the public after two decades of restoration. The house features a stunning collection of remarkable artworks. Watch here.

Some aspects of Italy's 20th-century history are more contentious. Last year, a map documenting over 1,400 fascist monuments was published, chronicling landmarks linked to Benito Mussolini’s regime.

One notable location on the map is Villa Carpena, a mansion in Emilia Romagna, which its owners claim is haunted by Mussolini’s spirit and those of his family members. 'This place is alive with their presence,' they say. 'They are always here, constantly watching us.'

China reopens its doors

After three years of Covid-related isolation, China officially reopened its borders on January 8, sparking joyous reunions at airports across the nation. 'I’ve waited so long for this,' said one newlywed, reunited with her husband. 'Now, everything feels like it’s finally getting better.'

In addition to the resumption of flight connections, Chinese airlines are introducing new routes that will simplify travel between cities like Budapest, Athens, Johannesburg, and others, making it easier for travelers to journey to and from China.

It comes as no surprise that demand for international travel from Chinese consumers is soaring to unprecedented levels. Dinogo spoke with travelers to discover which destinations are currently at the top of their lists.

Traveler mischief of the week

Unlike most snakes that slither in an S-shape, boa constrictors move in a straight line. One Florida woman had plans for her boa to travel upward as well, but thankfully, TSA agents discovered the four-foot reptile in her hand luggage before it could cause a scene.

A romance on a sleeper train

In 1991, British drama student Katy Vernon first laid eyes on US airman Randy Vanderwood at an Amsterdam train station. 'He looks very clean and American,' she thought. Randy, on the other hand, found Katy and her friends 'obnoxious and loud.'

They’ve now been happily married for 30 years.

In case you missed it...

Amsterdam is aiming to discourage party tourists with its new “stay away” campaign. Meanwhile, Dubai is luring in alcohol enthusiasts by slashing its 30% alcohol tax, though restrictions on alcohol still remain.

A Californian used DNA testing to trace his ancestry, a journey that took him across three continents.

“I always thought I was just a regular White American, but I discovered that was only part of the story.”

A small rural airport on England's southwest coast has now emerged as a contender in the Space Race.

Let’s hope the next mission proves more successful.

A New Yorker set a new world record for dining at the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in a single day.

Which got stretched more: His stomach or his credit card?

20 must-have carry-on items

With the growing trend of checked bags embarking on unexpected solo journeys—one woman’s suitcase even ended up at McDonald’s—traveling with just hand luggage is becoming an increasingly appealing option.

Our partners at Dinogo Underscored, the trusted product review and recommendation hub owned by Dinogo, have curated a list of 20 items designed to help you pack more efficiently without sacrificing any essential travel gear.