The hottest Travel Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Travel Topics

A Traveler's Survival Guide to Bureaucracy Across Borders

Terra Nullius, by Ned Donovan β€’ 122 implied HN points β€’ 22 Oct 24
🏝 Travel Travel tips Bureaucracy Cultural Insights Travel experiences International travel
  1. Always be prepared with plenty of documents. Having extra papers and stamps can help you impress the officials you meet.
  2. Be assertive yet polite. It's important to show that you know what you need while also being respectful to those who can help you.
  3. Patience is key when dealing with bureaucracies. Things often take longer than expected, so bring a book or find ways to keep yourself occupied.

Farewell Canada

Splattern β€’ 239 implied HN points β€’ 18 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Sports Culture Nature Community
  1. The journey involved running and skiing over 1,200 miles, showing a real commitment to adventure. It was not just about the distance but also the experiences along the way.
  2. The support from strangers and friends was incredible, with many people offering help and kindness. Each act of generosity made the journey feel less lonely.
  3. The author felt grateful for the adventure and the people who contributed to it. It was a reminder of how important community and human connections are.
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Mapping the London of Sherlock Holmes

Londonist: Time Machine β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Mapping
  1. Sherlock Holmes is deeply associated with London, with many places in the city linked to the fictional character.
  2. Holmes' claim to have exact knowledge of London raises questions about the role of the city in the stories.
  3. The Victorian city of London plays a significant role in the stories of Arthur Conan Doyle and Sherlock Holmes.

soaking in hot water in Iceland

well, actually β€’ 471 implied HN points β€’ 25 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Cultural experience
  1. The culture of year-round outdoor public bathing in Iceland is influenced by cheap geothermal power, resulting in a variety of pool complexes to visit.
  2. Visiting different pool complexes in Iceland can be a fun and unique way to experience the country's culture and scenery.
  3. Taking a trip to Iceland for hot water soaks can offer a relaxing and enjoyable experience in natural geothermal pools and man-made complexes.

Olly and Rocky’s Insider Guide to Your African Safari

Splattern β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 06 Aug 24
🏝 Travel Cultural experiences Adventure Travel
  1. Going on a safari can be an amazing experience, but it's important to recognize the challenges faced by local communities, like the Maasai, who have been historically displaced from their lands.
  2. While seeing wildlife is thrilling, it's also crucial to understand that many places create an image of untouched nature that doesn’t reflect the real impact on the people living there.
  3. It's good to keep learning about the history and social issues tied to tourism. Talking to locals can help us see the bigger picture and change our perspectives.

Backpacking Around Belize

The Analog Family β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 26 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Destinations Family Travel Travel tips Cultural experiences
  1. Belize is an amazing destination with beautiful wildlife and friendly local vibes. It's great for families looking for adventure and relaxation.
  2. Flexibility in travel plans can lead to better experiences. It’s helpful to book some basics but leave space for spontaneous adventures and local recommendations.
  3. Talking to locals and exploring off the beaten path often brings the best travel stories and memories. Avoiding tourist traps helps you discover the real culture.

VFYW: Falling For It

The Weekly Dish β€’ 43 implied HN points β€’ 14 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Travel tips Cultural Insights Food experiences Personal Stories
  1. The Tim Hortons sign strongly suggests the location is likely in Canada, as it has many stores there. It’s interesting that even if you find a random Tim Hortons, there’s a good chance you’re in Canada.
  2. The clues about the view include things like the type of cars and buildings, which help narrow it down to smaller cities or neighborhoods rather than major urban areas.
  3. People have different strategies to guess the location based on quick observations, such as the orientation of the sun or the presence of specific cultural references like a bus color or the local cafΓ© scene.

KG: Fending off Selena Gomez in Bishkek

Castalia β€’ 459 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Travel Writing Cultural Exploration Personal essays Adventure
  1. Kyrgyzstan is a place that can feel both lonely and welcoming at the same time. The author experienced both isolation and a sense of community during their visits.
  2. Bishkek has changed over the years, becoming safer and more modern. The author's past experiences of danger have shifted to more everyday issues like taxi rides and music choices.
  3. Life in Kyrgyzstan is quite affordable and functional. People seem to get by, and while it may not have rich resources, there’s a sense of contentment in the everyday life.

This is Not Another Terrible Travel Toilet Story

Brent and Michael are Going Places β€’ 825 implied HN points β€’ 27 Mar 23
🏝 Travel Experiences Destinations Tips Culture Humor
  1. The author shared a not-so-glamorous travel experience of dealing with a bathroom emergency while waiting at a consulate.
  2. The story highlights the challenges of finding a bathroom and dealing with cultural differences while travelling in Asia.
  3. Always carry tissue when traveling to avoid potentially uncomfortable situations like the one described in the story.

Day 2 is in the books

Splattern β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jul 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Culture Sports Health Lifestyle
  1. Running in Tanzania can be a tough but rewarding experience. It's a chance to bond with local people and learn about their lives.
  2. The local community is very supportive, often providing food and water along the way. It shows how hospitality plays a big role in their culture.
  3. The journey makes you appreciate what others go through, especially when facing challenges like poverty. Connecting with the locals can really change your perspective.

Walking the Netherlands: From Amsterdam to The Hague

Chris Arnade Walks the World β€’ 771 implied HN points β€’ 14 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Transportation Sustainability Culture Infrastructure
  1. The Dutch culture emphasizes good citizenship, seen in how they are thoughtful, friendly, and helpful to strangers.
  2. The Netherlands is clean and functional due to being a high-trust society, which allows for nice things without fear of them being misused.
  3. Placing a focus on pedestrians and cyclists over cars has made Dutch cities more livable and charming, contrasting with the struggles in the US.

I Review My Stay At Holiday Inn Express Jamaica - JFK - AirTrain - NYC, An IHG Hotel

The Real Sarah Miller β€’ 452 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jan 24
🏝 Travel
  1. The front desk clerk at the hotel did not readily address concerns about a free shuttle service, causing frustration for the guest.
  2. The guest had to request to change their room due to noise issues, leading to a night of discomfort and worry about the structural integrity of the building.
  3. The guest felt conflicted about the entitlement of requesting a room change in an empty hotel, questioning if they deserved better.

A brush with Nomadland

PASSAGES β€’ 1159 implied HN points β€’ 01 Aug 23
🏝 Travel USA
  1. The RV migration in the USA is a significant trend.
  2. E-bikes are a popular choice for campground hosts to get around.
  3. There can be confusion about e-bike regulations that vary by state.

#16: Four alternatives to an Alaska cruise

Bureau of Adventure β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Destinations Travel tips Adventures Road trips Nature
  1. You can visit Alaska without going on a cruise. Alternatives include flying to Anchorage and taking a road trip to explore scenic spots like Denali National Park and Seward.
  2. Southeast Alaska offers a different experience accessed by flying or taking shorter ferries. You can spend more time in smaller towns and visit places that huge cruise ships don't reach.
  3. The Alaska Marine Highway is a ferry system that connects coastal communities. It's more local and lets you enjoy beautiful scenery while traveling, plus you can camp on the deck for a budget-friendly option.

#15: June Travel Links

Bureau of Adventure β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Travel Travel experiences
  1. There are unique travel ideas like cruises that have a resident dog on board to entertain guests. This creative marketing makes the cruise more appealing.
  2. A student created a neat map showing all the railway lines in the world. It's a cool way to see how extensive global train travel is.
  3. Airship cruises are being planned for special trips, like going to the North Pole. They promise a unique travel experience without needing traditional airports.

The Arbitrariness of Borders

Caravanserai with Samantha Childress β€’ 766 implied HN points β€’ 05 May 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Experiences Borders Cultural Exchange
  1. The author reflects on the concept of borders and how arbitrary they can be, especially after visiting Cyprus.
  2. The author discusses the idea of storytelling in personal experiences and how old narratives may no longer serve us.
  3. The journey in Cyprus helps the author come to terms with grief and the realization that quests and borders can be symbolic rather than definitive.

The Travel Lunatic: A Floating Village, a Bad Embassy, and My Literally Being Eaten Alive!

Brent and Michael are Going Places β€’ 766 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jun 23
🏝 Travel Destinations Culture Local Life History Impact
  1. The author shares adventures and insights from traveling in Cambodia, including visiting a floating village and dealing with embassy challenges.
  2. A story about a floating village showcases the impact of tourism on local communities and the importance of education in changing lives.
  3. The author recounts a powerful book recommendation highlighting the brutal Khmer Rouge period in Cambodia.

Why commercial travel writing isn't for everyone | Pitch calls & travel writing jobs

Talking Travel Writing β€’ 373 implied HN points β€’ 06 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Writing Jobs Webinars Industry
  1. Commercial travel writing may not be suitable for everyone due to its demands and nature.
  2. Engaging in commercial writing can provide opportunities for financial gain and skill development.
  3. Commercial travel writing involves a variety of tasks beyond traditional editorial work, contributing to a writer's growth.

Five... Pieces of London's Hitchcockian History

Londonist: Time Machine β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 19 May 24
🏝 Travel History Landmarks Culture
  1. London has various locations related to Hitchcock's life and work, such as Leytonstone where he was born and Hackney where he started his career in the film industry.
  2. Visiting Leytonstone allows for a Hitchcock-themed experience, with places like the Hitchcock Hotel and mosaics at Leytonstone tube station paying homage to the director.
  3. Islington Studios in Hackney is where Hitchcock began as an assistant director and later directed his first thriller, showcasing his early career in the film industry.

Travel selfie

Austin Kleon β€’ 2178 implied HN points β€’ 04 Nov 22
🏝 Travel Travel tips Destinations Travel experiences
  1. Travel can inspire creativity and new experiences. It’s refreshing to get away and see different places, like exploring Pennsylvania.
  2. Music and art play an important role in enjoying trips. Listening to a good album or visiting a museum can make the experience even better.
  3. Social media impacts our lives in significant ways. It's important to be aware of how it affects our daily experiences and creativity.

Are you 'from here'? And how long does it take to become a Mancunian?

The Mill β€’ 707 implied HN points β€’ 18 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Cultural Destinations
  1. The post discusses what it means to be from Manchester and how long it takes to become a true Mancunian.
  2. The writer, Jack Walton, recounts amusing incidents with a Victorian door and shares experiences from Manchester and Liverpool.
  3. The post also mentions Jack's work with sister publication The Post and his articles on various topics.

On Being Blown Away by Travel Destinations I'd Never Even Heard of Before Visiting Them

Brent and Michael are Going Places β€’ 727 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jun 23
🏝 Travel Destinations Experiences Discoveries
  1. Traveling to lesser-known destinations can lead to unexpectedly amazing experiences.
  2. Having low or no expectations for a destination can make it easier to be surprised and delighted.
  3. There are many incredible travel destinations around the world that are not well-known but are absolutely worth visiting.

Notes from Montenegro

Cosmographia β€’ 718 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jul 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Culture
  1. The post is about Notes from Montenegro by M. E. Rothwell, available on cosmographia.substack.com.
  2. There is a new project announced called The Books That Made Us, exploring foundational books that shaped favorite writers.
  3. The post is for paid subscribers, but there is an option to subscribe and read the content.

The Place We're At Now: Whale Beach, Australia

Brent and Michael are Going Places β€’ 393 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Destinations Accommodation Activities Cost
  1. The authors are currently at Whale Beach, Australia after exploring various regions in Australia and New Zealand.
  2. Their Airbnb at Whale Beach offers stunning views of the beach, trees, and wildlife like kookaburras and parrots.
  3. Whale Beach is described as a serene location with wild waves, rock pools, and beautiful scenery, offering a tranquil and picturesque experience.

The Ski Trail Ratings Edition

Why is this interesting? β€’ 723 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Skiing Europe
  1. Ski trail ratings were standardized in 1964 due to pressure from insurance and Walt Disney was involved in creating the colors and shapes used today
  2. Trail ratings are subjective and vary between resorts, with ratings based on factors like vertical grade, obstacles, grooming, and more
  3. Ski trail ratings differ between regions like the West/Rockies and East Coast in the US, and between Europe and the US, impacting how difficult trails may feel

Muungano

Splattern β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jul 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Cultural Fundraising Education Personal Growth
  1. Masoud has a close-knit family where everyone is considered a sibling or parent, showing the strong bonds they share. This cultural difference highlights how relationships can be more about emotional ties than strict definitions.
  2. Masoud is facing tough financial challenges but has a plan to start a business before attending university to help support his family. It shows his dedication and responsibility towards his family’s well-being.
  3. The journey includes ups and downs, but those experiences, like climbing mountains or encountering mosquitoes, make the adventure meaningful. It teaches that detours can add value to the main goal, like raising money for a good cause.

Matemwe

Splattern β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Adventure Culture Food Lifestyle Charity
  1. Traveling to local spots can lead to unique experiences, like enjoying a true local meal. It helps build connections with local culture and people.
  2. Language isn't always necessary to communicate; a smile and gesture can create understanding and connection. Simple acts can bridge gaps between cultures.
  3. Exploring the balance between charity work and personal finance can be challenging. It's important to find fulfillment without sacrificing financial stability.