The hottest Travel Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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There’s Nothing More Corrupting Than Flying Private

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 681 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elite Political Influence Travel Philanthropy
  1. Flying on a private plane can disconnect people from everyday experiences and reality. It's like stepping away from the human connection that comes with regular travel.
  2. Owning or using a private plane can change a person's behavior and priorities, leading to a loss of moral grounding.
  3. The associations and connections made through private travel, especially with controversial figures, can highlight deeper issues of influence and corruption in society.

The Monday Media Diet with Dave Fielding

Why is this interesting? • 784 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Travel Personal Stories History
  1. Challenges help us grow and learn. Seeking out tough experiences can bring personal development.
  2. Being aware of bias in media helps us understand the true message behind the news. It’s important to analyze what we read critically.
  3. Nepal is a beautiful place worth visiting. The connection to nature and culture there leaves a lasting impression.

A Sonoran Re-Do

Tom Ryan, Author • 7999 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🏝 Travel Travel
  1. The author explores Tsé Bitʼaʼí in the Sonoran Desert.
  2. The stay in Kanab, Arizona was disrupted by mud during a snowstorm.
  3. Kanab is a place for the author to center, walk, and write.

Norway Notes

ChinaTalk • 311 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History Art Travel Music Society
  1. Oslo is a city full of parks and interesting activities, like volleyball, even if its neighborhoods are sometimes considered rough. The city has a vibrant vibe, especially during the summer with long daylight hours.
  2. Norway's history with its support for Palestine has created some complexity, especially as the nation grapples with issues of antisemitism. There are mixed feelings and challenges about how historical support affects current views.
  3. The Viking culture is fascinating but had both brutal and humane aspects. Books about the Vikings provide intriguing insights into their lives and are accessible for anyone interested in this part of history.

matchmaking is open + what I've been reading

bookbear express • 137 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Travel Relationships Events
  1. There's a matchmaking event happening soon, and it's a chance to meet new people. You can sign up for just $5, and they promise to refund if it doesn't work out for you.
  2. The author is enjoying traveling with friends and believes that spending time with loved ones is important. They want to focus more on fun and light experiences in life.
  3. The author is reading some interesting books and articles that explore themes of art, motherhood, and personal experiences. They find these topics gripping and reflective.
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VFYW: 'What's With The Funi Business?'

The Weekly Dish • 43 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Travel History Humor
  1. This week features a funicular view, which is a unique twist on the usual window submissions. It shows how creative participants can get with their photos.
  2. Participants noticed various clues in the photo, like signage and architecture, to guess the location. It's fun how they piece together hints from the image.
  3. There was a lively discussion about whether certain types of views follow the contest rules or not. It highlights how engaged and enthusiastic the community is about the contest.

VFYW: A Surprising Place For Surfers

The Weekly Dish • 65 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Travel Photography Community Events
  1. Surfers can be found in surprising places that aren't by the ocean. It's a reminder that passions can exist far from their usual locations.
  2. Many contributions from a community can highlight unique perspectives, especially through photography and insights during contests.
  3. Public art can be found in unexpected places, like airports, enhancing the travel experience and connecting communities.

The Mourning Moon

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 4932 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture History Politics Art Travel Social Issues
  1. The Mourning Moon serves as a warning of impending dark days and the need to grieve losses and prepare for challenges.
  2. Cahokia, once a thriving city in ancient times along the Mississippi River, is now abandoned, with only earth mounds remaining as haunting reminders of its past.
  3. The heartbreaking reality of modern war and the power of grief, especially in the face of atrocities like the mass killing of children in Gaza, are difficult truths that are hard to reconcile but important to acknowledge.

WHAT?!? A non-disposable disposable camera???

The Rectangle • 84 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Photography Gadgets Travel Art Lifestyle
  1. There are new cameras called non-disposable disposable cameras. They let you take film photos without throwing the camera away after use.
  2. Using these cameras makes you appreciate the moments you capture. It feels special to wait for the photos to develop.
  3. The Harman EZ35 is a good beginner's camera that's cheap and easy to use. It allows for casual photography without feeling overwhelming.

The Monday Media Diet with Harper Reed

Why is this interesting? • 784 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Art Travel Technology
  1. Harper Reed enjoys a media diet that mixes TikTok for wild recommendations and pen pals for deeper connections. This way, he finds smart content while avoiding too much noise online.
  2. He values meaningful books that reflect his life experiences, like Olga Ravn's work, which helped him think about balance as a new parent and entrepreneur.
  3. Reed is all about exploring new interests and has recently been curious about vintage cameras, old speakers, and quirky fashion like platform shoes. He enjoys diving deep into these rabbit holes when the urge strikes.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 31

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food Travel Entertainment Lifestyle Media
  1. Blank Street Coffee is gaining attention and has some insights on competing with giants like Starbucks in NYC.
  2. There's a video discussing a major traffic issue in New Jersey where a lot of car lanes have to merge quickly into fewer lanes.
  3. A piece about American diners in London highlights the cultural challenges faced by Americans trying to navigate dining experiences abroad.

The Russian Draft Dodgers Who Fled to Paradise

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 366 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌐 International Conflict Immigration Culture Travel Geopolitics
  1. Many Russians are escaping to places like Bali to avoid military drafts and the war. They enjoy a cheaper lifestyle and beautiful surroundings.
  2. Despite their new paradise, some locals in Bali are frustrated with Russian tourists due to bad behavior, which has them on edge.
  3. Not all Russians are focusing on leisure; some, like influencers, share their experiences and concerns about the changing community.

La Rentrée, Part 2

David Lebovitz Newsletter • 4933 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🍲 Food & Drink Cuisine Restaurants Travel Shopping Recipes
  1. Brittany is a beautiful region known for its rocky coasts, dramatic weather, and delicious food like moules-frites and local hard apple cider.
  2. In Languedoc, you can enjoy a relaxing vacation with fresh seafood, warm beaches, and charming markets like the one in Olonzac.
  3. Exploring vide-greniers in the French countryside can lead to great finds, while enjoying delicious food at local restaurants can be a highlight of the trip.

Soothing the injured spirit of the Temple

Wrong Side of History • 299 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History Art Architecture Heritage Travel
  1. The Elgin Marbles are a point of controversy, with many people in Greece wanting them returned. Recent talks suggest they could be loaned to Greece, potentially making this arrangement permanent.
  2. Public opinion in Britain is largely in favor of returning the Marbles, although not everyone feels strongly about it. The British Museum has a history of preserving important artifacts, which some believe justifies keeping the Marbles.
  3. Historically, Britain has been seen as a protector of global heritage through its museums. Many antiquities could have been lost without British efforts to preserve them, as demonstrated by the destruction of cultural sites in conflict zones.

Mr. Autumn Man, activated

Austin Kleon • 4656 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Arts Music Literature Travel Comics
  1. Traveling to places can be a lot of fun, especially when you get to catch up with friends and explore local shops and events. It's great to discover new books and enjoy the surroundings.
  2. Listening to music while driving can really enhance the experience. Whether it's a rainy night drive or a flight, the right tunes make everything feel more exciting.
  3. It's nice to find joy in simple things, like favorite teas, walks, and creative projects. Sharing and learning about good experiences can make everyday life better.

A path with a view

Austin Kleon • 3836 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Travel Art Food Music Lifestyle
  1. Taking a trip to Disneyland can be fun, especially with cool rides and tasty snacks. It's a great place to enjoy beautiful landscaping, which might inspire visits to other gardens.
  2. Riding a bike, especially around interesting paths like the LA River Bike Path, can lead to spontaneous adventures and fun picnics at the beach. Enjoying nature while biking can be a refreshing experience.
  3. There are many new music releases that can be exciting to explore. Discovering unique albums can bring new joy, especially from artists that resonate well with your taste.

October 2023 newsletter

David Lebovitz Newsletter • 4363 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
🍲 Food & Drink Restaurants Cookbooks Travel Recipes Gardening
  1. The author missed writing the September newsletter but enjoyed taking a break in Sicily.
  2. In France, 'Non' doesn't mean being rude; it's about valuing personal time like vacation and work-life balance.
  3. When dining in France, tipping is not mandatory as service is included in the price, but leaving a little extra for good service is appreciated.

April 2023 Newsletter

David Lebovitz Newsletter • 3714 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
🍲 Food & Drink Bakery Travel Recipes Restaurants
  1. Visiting San Francisco bakeries like Arsicault can be a rewarding experience for pastry lovers.
  2. Prioritizing family time during travel can lead to meaningful and enjoyable experiences.
  3. When traveling to places with potential strikes, it's essential to be flexible and plan accordingly to navigate transportation disruptions.

Dispatches from the Road

Tom Ryan, Author • 1533 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Travel
  1. Author shares experiences from a road trip in Moab and upcoming plans to visit Kanab and Tucson
  2. Different terrains in each location provide unique walking experiences
  3. Post is exclusive for Founding Members, prompting others to consider upgrading

Brittany Addresses

David Lebovitz Newsletter • 3007 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🍲 Food & Drink Cuisine Travel Recipes Beverages Restaurants
  1. Brittany is a popular destination for its cool weather, coastline, beaches, and delicious food like seafood, crêpes, and pastries.
  2. Brittany is known for its sparkling apple cider, love of salted butter, and local specialty honeys.
  3. Reserve in advance when dining in Brittany, explore local beverages like cider and wines, and try the delicious salted butter available at markets.

The Monday Media Diet with Ashtyn Butoso

Why is this interesting? • 301 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Communication Sports Travel
  1. Ashtyn Butoso is a creative who loves sports and media, and she enjoys a mix of writing, video production, and freelance work. She's also passionate about animal rights and often indulges in various forms of media.
  2. She has a diverse media diet, including newsletters, podcasts, and local NYC content. She particularly enjoys work by Josh Gondelman and Hanif Abduraqib, showcasing her love for both humor and deep storytelling.
  3. Ashtyn recommends everyone visit Porto, Portugal, as it's an underrated gem. She also emphasizes the importance of attending WNBA games to appreciate the uniqueness of the experience.

Backcountry Coffee n' Donuts

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 319 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Nature History Travel Arts Lifestyle
  1. Finding old objects in nature, like the donut insulator, can remind us of the people who built things in the wilderness. It's interesting to think about their challenges and dreams.
  2. Many trails in the mountains were created by miners and builders long ago, showing how humans have changed the landscape. These paths help modern hikers enjoy nature today.
  3. Nature has a way of recovering even after human impact. This is a hopeful reminder that the forest can bounce back despite our past actions.

Eloise's Legacy

Burnt Toast by Virginia Sole-Smith • 2614 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Fashion Travel Food & Drink History
  1. The reason for the trip was afternoon tea at The Plaza - inspired by the iconic picture book "Eloise."
  2. Eloise represents a girl who has adventurous experiences that are often reserved for boys in children's books.
  3. The Plaza's Eloise branding has evolved into an American Girl dolls-Barbie fusion, catering to a different idea of American girlhood.

The stone walls of Ireland and human insight

The Leap • 299 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art History Travel Philosophy
  1. The stone walls of Ireland reflect human creativity and resilience. They show how people adapt and use local materials to build something lasting.
  2. The idea of spontaneous human insight is important. Sometimes, communities naturally find solutions to problems without needing a formal process.
  3. Traveling can offer new perspectives. Exploring different places, like the hills of Ireland, can inspire deep thoughts and insights about life.

The Desk Digest, January 2024

From the Desk of Alicia Kennedy • 1316 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Newsletter Food Writing Book Reviews Travel Photography
  1. The newsletter relaunch focuses on giving more time and space for essays and discussions about food nonfiction.
  2. The author aims to provide flexibility for subscribers to choose email frequency and plans to provide monthly updates on the newsletter's status.
  3. Recent content includes essays, book recommendations, and upcoming projects like a long-form book.

Clueless No More: A Guide for Americans Eating in London

Vittles • 264 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🍲 Food & Drink Culinary Dining Travel Culture Guide
  1. American tourists often miss out on London's great food by sticking to popular spots like afternoon tea and fish and chips. It's better to explore local favorites instead.
  2. Many traditional meals in London, like roast dinners in pubs, can be disappointing and overcooked. You might want to skip this and try homemade meals instead.
  3. While some British foods can be bland, there are also lots of exciting culinary options in London. Don't let stereotypes stop you from finding great places to eat.

Hatchlings into fledglings

Austin Kleon • 3996 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Music Travel Design Media
  1. A writer creates the story, and the reader brings it to life in their imagination. They both play important roles in enjoying a book.
  2. Celebrating the life of cartoonist Al Jaffee, who entertained many with his creativity, shows the impact of humor and art across generations.
  3. Listening to audiobooks and travel stories can inspire new experiences and adventures, like dreaming of visiting far-off places with family.

Goodbye Cairo Dispatch, Hello Caravanserai

Caravanserai with Samantha Childress • 1139 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Travel Personal Stories Experiences Creativity
  1. The newsletter has a new name and focus: Caravanserai, centered on personal stories and world cultures
  2. Caravanserai is inspired by the historical roadside inns along the Silk Road where travelers exchanged stories and experiences
  3. Readers can continue to enjoy personal tales and insights in this transformed publication

Spin the Bottle, Roll the Dice

Seven Senses • 799 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Adventure Food Travel Personal Experience Tradition
  1. Using randomness in your adventures can make them more exciting. By spinning a bottle and rolling dice, you can discover new places that you might not have chosen otherwise.
  2. You don’t need to travel far to have a memorable day out. A local adventure can be just as fulfilling when approached with open-mindedness and curiosity.
  3. Every encounter can add meaning to your day. Whether it's a chat with a local or visiting unique spots, these moments can contribute to an overall magical experience.

Post to the Host

Garrison Keillor and Friends • 1179 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Performance Literature Travel Music History
  1. Fans share personal stories and experiences with Garrison Keillor, showing deep appreciation and connection with his work.
  2. Garrison Keillor responds to fan messages and comments with wit, humor, and humility, engaging with his audience in a friendly manner.
  3. Audience members express excitement, plans, and hopes for attending Garrison Keillor's upcoming shows, showcasing their anticipation and admiration.

Organizing Principles

The Contender • 1867 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Fashion & Beauty Travel
  1. Having a good system, whether simple or scientific, can be very beneficial in daily life.
  2. Systems can be personalized and tailored to different aspects of life, such as what you always keep in your car, fishing bag, or pockets.
  3. Wearing a sport coat can serve multiple purposes, including the practical benefit of utilizing its interior pockets.