Chris Arnade Walks the World

Chris Arnade Walks the World features thoughtful explorations and observations from walks around various cities globally. It delves into local cultures, music, architecture, societal issues, and personal encounters, offering a blend of travel insights, social commentary, and reflections on diverse global experiences.

Travel and Culture Music and Entertainment Architecture and Urban Planning Societal Issues Personal Reflections and Stories Food and Cuisine Political and Economic Perspectives

The hottest Substack posts of Chris Arnade Walks the World

And their main takeaways

Beijing versus Shanghai, Pastoralism as key to civilization, and why I travel (again)

694 implied HN points • 05 Mar 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Travel Adventure Travel
  1. Beijing and Shanghai have many similarities, reflecting China's push for a uniform modernity. While this has helped many citizens improve their lives, it can feel like a lack of cultural diversity.
  2. Traveling is not just about seeking new experiences or finding oneself. It's more about learning from different cultures and understanding how others live and think.
  3. Pastoralism has played a significant role in civilization, shaping life thousands of years ago. Its impact is still felt today in some parts of the world, reminding us of our deep connections to the land.

Walking Beijing

958 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🏝 Travel Urban Exploration Cultural Travel International travel Geopolitics
  1. Beijing and Shanghai are both shaped by the same government plans focused on modernization, making them feel very similar despite their differences.
  2. The city has transformed from old, chaotic neighborhoods to new, orderly structures, as the government aims for a future of wealth and progress.
  3. Walking in Beijing shows a stark contrast; the streets are wide and often empty, with public transport making it easier for people to avoid walking long distances.

On Cultural Relativism and some books I've recently read

1510 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Literature Philosophy Society Arts
  1. Cultural differences really shape how people behave and interact. Some cultures have strong values like respect and responsibility, which can lead to better experiences in daily life.
  2. Traveling can be a mix of good and bad experiences, but visiting different places teaches us a lot. Some regions may offer more enjoyable or meaningful interactions than others.
  3. Books can provide deep insights into culture and history. Reading helps us understand different perspectives and can be an enriching part of traveling.

Oh No! Again

2006 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🏝 Travel Travel Writing Travel tips Family Travel Health & Wellness Personal Reflection
  1. Taking a break can be important, especially when life gets overwhelming. It's okay to step back and focus on personal matters and health.
  2. Traveling continuously for a long time can make it feel like an obligation instead of a joy. It's normal to experience burnout even in jobs you love.
  3. It's good to find a balance between work and personal life. Taking time off can help recharge and bring back enthusiasm.

The Hero and other Cultural Characters

2116 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Masculinity Social Behavior Identity
  1. Men often want to feel like heroes and this need gives them a sense of purpose. When they can rescue or protect others, it boosts their self-worth.
  2. Societies need positive hero roles for men to fill, like firefighters or engineers. Without these, negative behaviors can emerge and create bigger problems.
  3. Cultural roles shape how people live and interact. Having healthy characters to identify with is important, as they help provide meaning and connection to the community.
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America, the beautiful

3020 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Cultural Change Social Issues Optimism
  1. America has many problems, but it remains a place full of opportunities and hope. Many people still believe in the American Dream and work hard to achieve it.
  2. Even in tough situations, people show resilience and optimism. Stories of individuals striving for better lives highlight the strength of the human spirit.
  3. Despite its challenges, the US provides a sense of community and the chance for people to remake their lives. This idea of transformation is a key part of what makes America special.

The Divine Engineer of Ancient Sichuan

826 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History Religion Tradition Philosophy Society
  1. Chengdu is a city that mixes modern life with traditions. Tourists can find panda-themed items everywhere and the city shows a blend of old and new.
  2. Li Bing is a significant figure in Chinese history for his engineering skills. He developed an ancient irrigation system that helped people manage floods and improve farming.
  3. Chinese heroes are often celebrated for serving the people rather than just fighting battles. Figures like Li Bing show how public service and engineering are valued in their culture.

The meaning of, and in, McDonald's

2678 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Community Sociology Cultural Studies Media Public Opinion
  1. McDonald's serves as a community hub for many Americans. It provides a comfortable place for people from all walks of life to gather and connect.
  2. Political figures like Trump tap into McDonald's popularity to resonate with average voters. His love for the franchise makes him seem relatable and down-to-earth.
  3. Many people facing challenges, like mental illness, find safety and social interaction in McDonald's. The staff and regulars often look out for each other, creating a supportive environment.

Fields of my ancestors

958 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Personal journey Historical context
  1. Visiting rural areas in China, like Baoying, reveals a slice of traditional life that many people don't see. These places hold deep family histories that tell stories of resilience over time.
  2. Ancestral worship is very important in Chinese culture, highlighting the strong connection people have with their roots. Visiting family graves is a meaningful part of reconnecting with the past.
  3. Many villages are facing challenges due to aging populations and changing lifestyles. The sense of community is still strong, but there are concerns about the future of these areas as younger generations move away.

Walking Warsaw

1686 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Historical context Urban life
  1. Warsaw feels very planned and tidy, but lacks the vibrant, chaotic energy found in other Eastern European cities. The author felt the city was missing its unique charm and buzz.
  2. Despite being safer and richer now, Warsaw's modern look makes it feel like any other wealthy European city. This blandness raises questions about cultural identity and what is lost in progress.
  3. The city's history as a site of trauma from WWII and communist rule still impacts its atmosphere today. The author reflects on how deeply the scars of the past can affect a place long after the events have ended.

Why and how to walk 200 miles

1344 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Walking Urban Exploration Logistics Cultural experience
  1. Walking long distances, like 200 miles, helps you learn about places in a deeper way. It’s not just about getting from A to B, but experiencing the journey and meeting people along the way.
  2. Preparing for a long walk is key. Training your body and choosing the right gear can prevent injuries and make the experience more enjoyable.
  3. Choosing a good route is important. Look for safe paths and enjoyable views, and plan where you’ll sleep and eat to keep the adventure smooth.

Various things from a last week of travel

1201 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Cultural experiences Food & Drink Collectibles Personal narratives International travel
  1. Japan has public baths that provide a relaxing and restorative experience, perfect for easing travel stress. Many hotels offer them, and using them can really improve your mood.
  2. Collectibles like Pokémon items hold value based on the stories and emotional connections people have with them, which makes them comparable to financial markets. This highlights how both collectors and investors are motivated by myths and desires.
  3. Travel can be tiring and sometimes disappointing, but meeting new people and having unique experiences, like ferry rides, make the journey memorable despite the ups and downs.

Walking Japan (again): From Fukuoka to Nagasaki

1443 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Cultural Travel Japanese culture Urban Exploration Craftsmanship
  1. Walking in Japan is great because it's easy and interesting. You can find nice communities to rest in and use trains if you need a break.
  2. Japanese cities might not be pretty, but they are clean and safe for walking. People respect rules and it's a friendly environment.
  3. Craftsmanship is important in Japan. Everyone takes their work seriously, showing care and thoughtfulness in everything they do.

Walking Phnom Penh

1311 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🏝 Travel City life Cultural Insights Personal reflections
  1. Phnom Penh is filled with children, which brings a joyful and optimistic vibe to the city. Their laughter and energy can lift people's spirits, making the environment feel more alive.
  2. Walking in Phnom Penh can be challenging due to busy roads and poor sidewalks, but drivers are generally considerate. This unique style of navigating through traffic is a skill learned in bustling cities.
  3. The city has a strong sense of community, as families together create small businesses. Even while facing struggles, like poverty, people still find fulfillment and meaning in having children and being part of a family.

A hundred hours in Shanghai

650 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🏝 Travel Travel tips Cultural Insights Personal experiences
  1. Traveling in China as a tourist can be easy with some preparation. Downloading apps like Alipay and a VPN before your trip is really helpful.
  2. Using a VPN can help you access the internet outside of China's restrictions. It might feel a bit risky, but it's common among many travelers and locals.
  3. Shanghai is a modern city with lots of luxury shopping and global culture. For older travelers, it can be a surprising blend of what they might expect and new trends.

Walking Bangkok

617 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🏝 Travel Urban Exploration Cultural Insights
  1. Bangkok is not an easy city to walk in because it is really hot and humid. The streets often flood, making walking uncomfortable and challenging.
  2. The city lacks charming walking areas; instead, many alleys feel long and dreary with lots of traffic. Most of the vibrant activity happens on the main roads.
  3. Despite the heat and chaos, Bangkok is full of interesting sights and experiences. There's a lot of life in every corner, with vendors selling everything imaginable.

Walking Vientiane (Laos)

595 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🏝 Travel Travel Writing City exploration Cultural Commentary Adventure Travel Urban life
  1. Vientiane has a super hot sun that makes everything feel sticky and slow. People tend to stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
  2. The city is small and spread out, making it less crowded during the day, but it comes alive again in the evening when the temperatures drop.
  3. While Vientiane can feel busy and bustling at times, it often shows signs of poverty and squalor, especially when the sun is shining.

Seoul stopover

407 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🏝 Travel Destinations Culture Adventure Experiences Travel tips
  1. Seoul is a great city to acclimate to Asia. It has a unique culture that can make the transition smoother.
  2. The author seems to really enjoy spending time in Seoul. They have written about the city several times and have a personal connection with it.
  3. The author chose to visit Seoul during the US election period to escape the political atmosphere at home. This shows they value new experiences in different settings.

Walking the Netherlands: From Amsterdam to The Hague

771 implied HN points • 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.

Walking Sofia (Bulgaria)

804 implied HN points • 29 Dec 23
🏝 Travel Destination Culture Food History Experience
  1. Sofia, Bulgaria is an underappreciated city with an insecure identity.
  2. Despite self-criticism, Sofia is a wonderful city with delicious Bulgarian cuisine that deserves recognition.
  3. There is a lack of advice and pride in Bulgarian culture and food in Sofia, despite its worth.

Oh No!

606 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Travel Injury Recovery Wellness
  1. The author is experiencing physical limitations due to an injury, preventing them from continuing their walking journey.
  2. Despite the setback, the author plans to focus on recovery and potentially work on finishing their novel during this time.
  3. The author hopes to resume walking and traveling in about ten weeks.

I could live in Seoul

859 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Cuisine Nightlife Cultural Exchange
  1. The author fell in love with LP bars in Seoul, enjoying rock music from the '60s through '90s and experiencing the unique bar culture.
  2. Seoul LP bars offer a fun project of exploring different places, talking to owners, and understanding their passion for collecting music.
  3. Despite spending time in Seoul's LP bars, the author found insights that people admire US pop culture, something he already knew.

Some additional thoughts about Sofia

551 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Experiences Eastern Europe Freedom
  1. The author reflects on a childhood memory from Sofia, Bulgaria, during the Communist era.
  2. The experience of living behind the Iron Curtain shaped the author's skepticism towards official narratives and authority.
  3. The restrictions on travel and fear experienced by the people in countries like East Germany, Bulgaria, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and Romania left a lasting impact on the author.

Walking Fuji

628 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🏝 Travel Reflection Experience Memories Culture Adventure
  1. The author recalls childhood experiences of traveling with family to unique places around the world.
  2. The author's parents believed that experiential learning through travel was the best form of education.
  3. The family's travels were often to less touristy locations and driven by a desire to experience the world on a budget.

Walking England's Coast Part 2: From New Romney to Brighton

793 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🏝 Travel Adventure Nature Culture
  1. The trek along England's coast from New Romney to Brighton was mostly surrounded by nature, with challenges like stinging nettles and harsh conditions.
  2. England's walking culture allows for public access through private lands and a network of public footpaths, though some paths can be difficult to navigate.
  3. Despite England's great walking system, challenges like thick fields and narrow roads without sidewalks were encountered during the trek.

Walking Japan: From Akashina to Fuji

672 implied HN points • 29 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Culture Adventure
  1. The author experienced a mix of unexpected situations during their time in Japan.
  2. Cultural differences and universal behaviors were observed, such as dealing with 'hot messes'.
  3. Despite facing some challenges, the author's excitement for exploring Japan remained high.

Interview with a young Mongolian

540 implied HN points • 21 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Interview Travel Family TV Series
  1. The interview provides insights into the life of a young Mongolian growing up in Ulaanbaatar, including experiences in the Ger district and education.
  2. Family plays a significant role in the interviewee's life, showcasing both challenges and strong bonds.
  3. There is a desire among Mongolian youth for quality education abroad and improvement in political and economic conditions within Mongolia.

Walking Darkhan (Mongolia)

562 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Photography Culture Adventure History
  1. Exploring beyond big cities provides a richer understanding of a country's culture and lifestyle.
  2. Transportation challenges like construction work and sheep herds can make intercity travel in Mongolia time-consuming.
  3. Engaging encounters with locals, even if unexpected, can add unique experiences to travel adventures.

Walking England's Coast Part 1: From Dover to New Romney

672 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🏝 Travel Hiking Exploration Culture People Lifestyle
  1. The author's walk from Dover to Portsmouth revealed the reality of Dover, which was different from the romanticized image portrayed.
  2. Encountering Sandra, a woman with a complicated background involving human trafficking, provided a glimpse into a harsher side of life in Dover.
  3. The honesty and openness of Sandra in sharing her story with the author was a surprising and impactful moment during the visit to Dover.

Walking (South) Salt Lake City

551 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
🏝 Travel Exploration Destinations
  1. The author went on a trip to Salt Lake City after being asked by their daughter.
  2. The daughter rarely travels due to a fear of flying and prefers online gaming with friends.
  3. The author was initially looking forward to a travel-free August but ended up going to Salt Lake City.

Some thoughts from a long summer of travel

507 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🏝 Travel Reflections Experiences Destinations
  1. The author shares experiences from a summer of travel to Senegal, Jakarta, and Japan
  2. In Senegal, the author's spontaneous decision to visit a mid-sized town led to a memorable and somewhat terrifying cab ride with a unique driver
  3. Rather than forcing connections between experiences, the author opts for a list approach to share their observations

To my subscribers. A quick note.

297 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🏝 Travel Travel
  1. The author is currently in Sofia and unable to upload content due to laptop issues.
  2. Next piece of content expected to come out sometime this weekend or around Christmas.
  3. The post is for paid subscribers only.

Some things I like about El Paso and San Antonio

308 implied HN points • 28 Nov 22
  1. The author highlights the local music scene and cultural experiences in El Paso and San Antonio
  2. The description of a sports bar in West San Antonio showcases a vibrant community atmosphere
  3. The author addresses the diversity and inclusivity of the crowd at the bar, reflecting on being an outsider in such environments

Things I really like about Istanbul

341 implied HN points • 29 Sep 22
  1. Istanbul is a beautiful and well-functioning city with low crime and a comprehensive public transportation system.
  2. Istanbul is a religious city with a mix of different influences, making it a global place where diverse ideas and cultures converge.
  3. Residents in Istanbul enjoy a blend of religious and secular activities, creating a pleasant and enriching environment for living and walking.

Walking Phoenix

2 HN points • 03 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Homelessness Mental health Urban Issues Public Health
  1. Phoenix has contrasting sides - while some parts showcase a version of the American Dream, others are plagued by chaos and despair, highlighting societal issues like drug addiction and homelessness.
  2. The experience highlighted the challenges of navigating through a city with broken infrastructure, lack of facilities, and intense disorder, impacting both residents and visitors.
  3. There was a clear call for more empathy, support, and community to address the issues of substance abuse, homelessness, and societal emptiness observed in parts of Phoenix.