The hottest International travel Substack posts right now

Beijing and Shanghai are both shaped by the same government plans focused on modernization, making them feel very similar despite their differences.
The city has transformed from old, chaotic neighborhoods to new, orderly structures, as the government aims for a future of wealth and progress.
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.

India is much dustier than the US, which makes photos look better in cleaner air. It's something people often mention, but it's really felt after living in a less dusty environment.
Payment options in India, like UPI, are super flexible for various transactions, though Apple Pay can be more convenient because it doesn't require entering amounts or PINs.
There's a lot of SMS spam in India, ranging from transaction confirmations to promotions. It's overwhelming and sometimes feels like you'll get a text for any little thing you do.

Don't sleep on the plane. Staying awake helps you adjust to the new time zone more easily.
Stay active when you arrive. Keeping busy until the evening helps you feel more awake and ready for bed.
Eating dinner just before sleeping helps you crash and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

Nine Mile, Jamaica is known for its connection to Bob Marley, and visiting his home and mausoleum can be an amazing experience.
When visiting places associated with drugs, it's important to know the laws and stay safe, especially if using any substances.
Jamaica offers more than just drug-related tourism; it's also a place to enjoy beautiful beaches and local culture.

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.
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.
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.

Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Language can change how we express feelings. For example, in Spanish, you say 'I have hunger' instead of 'I'm hungry', which shows a different way of thinking about sensations.
The pace of life in Spain feels relaxed compared to the hustle in places like New York. They have slow mornings and enjoy long nights, making life feel more balanced.
Life in Spain seems healthier without a focus on gyms or strict diets. People walk a lot, enjoy good food, and have strong social connections, which might contribute to their overall well-being.

Always be prepared with plenty of documents. Having extra papers and stamps can help you impress the officials you meet.
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.
Patience is key when dealing with bureaucracies. Things often take longer than expected, so bring a book or find ways to keep yourself occupied.

Success shouldn't just be about how much you achieve or how many miles you run. It's more about feeling good and enjoying life.
Listening and learning from others is important. Curiosity can lead to great insights and experiences.
Collaboration and laughter make adventures more enjoyable. Healing and love should be at the center of your journey.

The story reflects on a family's journey to France in 1963 with unique experiences and cultural connections.
Living on an Air Force base in France in the 60s provided a diverse and vibrant community for American airmen and their families.
The significance of travel, family experiences, and historical context shape a personal narrative with insights on culture and values.

The author's travel experience on September 11, 2001 was dramatically affected by the terrorist attacks, leading to unexpected disruptions and unprecedented experiences.
Despite the chaos and uncertainty, the author witnessed the sense of solidarity and peace among people in the United States during that challenging time.
The lasting impact of the author's journey is encapsulated in the entry stamp on their passport dated September 11, 2001, a poignant reminder of a significant moment in history.