4 Caribbean Islands That Don’t Require a Passport & Where to Go

Americans are spoiled by the Caribbean’s proximity.

Having some of the world’s most unspoiled, vibrant tropical islands within reach is a travel blessing—especially for those who live in the Southeast or nearby. Within a few hours, you can find yourself stepping off a plane in paradise.

There’s just one catch: the Caribbean is home to over 7,000 islands, home to 13 different sovereign nations, along with a slew of dependent territories that are ruled by overseas nations.

In short, it’s a clear win for travelers, but planning a trip might be a little more complex than many think. Along with finding the right island for your vacation needs, you also need to consider things like culture, language, and even nationality.

Some Caribbean islands are easier to visit than others, after all.

And if you want to keep absolutely simple, I suggest visiting one of the Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport. You’ve got two territories to explore across six gorgeous islands. Here’s where to go, where to stay, and what you can’t miss as you visit the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

A large tropical island that offers you a bit of everything, from Latino culture to lush jungles to endless urban adventures in the capital of San Juan. A little Spanish will help you make connections and uncover hidden gems, but no need to bring your passport along.

How can you get there?

The majority of travelers arrive in San Juan, then stay a few nights in the capital before heading to an all-inclusive resort. Another popular international hub is Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla, which takes you a bit further away from the city hustle and closer to more remote resorts and experiences.

Where should you stay?

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a popular stop in San Juan because the hotel is affordable, comfortable, and is home to one of the city’s most popular casinos.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort is popular because it’s located in a lush jungle setting in the Rio Grande area. It’s the perfect spot to take on exotic jungle tours—or stick to the golf course, if that’s your thing.
La Jamaca is a smaller and more casual hotel that takes you off the beaten path and into a calm, island setting. Consider it a local-style hideaway where you can avoid the standard resort fare, if that’s your preference.

Culebra & Vieques (PR)

A Wild Horse poses on the beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico (Getty)

There are two islands off the coast of Puerto Rico that more intrepid travelers should know about: Culebra and Vieques. These are sometimes known as the Spanish Virgin Islands. They offer similar vibes of barely-populated, heaven-on-earth-style island living. Culebra is also home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches: Tamarindo.

How can you get there?

You can take a ferry from the coastal town of Ceiba, which is the cheapest option to reach Vieques or Culebra. Others fly from San Juan, which is expensive but quick; both islands have their own airports.

If you prefer, you can also take a guided tour to/from the islands from San Juan, which includes plane tickets. I’d advise against doing a quick day trip; short day trips to islands usually put a huge strain on the environment and local community without giving much back. The best way to visit is to stay for a day or two.

Where should you stay?

If you’re planning to stay a few days, I recommend staying at Ulala Culebra. You won’t be near the beach, but you’ll have near-panoramic views of the island and plenty of space to roam in your private suite.
If you want a more exciting stay, book a room at Mamacitas Guest House. It’s right on the water and smack in the middle of the action, letting you walk to restaurants and nightlife. Just know that it’s got a hostel-style feel.
If you want a stylish and unexpectedly cool stay in Vieques, book a room at Puertas. I’ve heard amazing things about this beachfront property, especially in terms of ambiance.
Again, if you’re after style and something (pleasantly) surprising, stay at El Blok. It’s got character in just about every sense, from its dramatic, modern architecture to its jungle views.

Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport: US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas (USVI)

An image of Magens Bay on the island of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands (Getty)

The United States Virgin Islands are home to three main islands—and each offers a distinct experience. The largest is St. Thomas, which is also the most developed. You can find large shopping malls, resorts from major chains, and just about any type of water adventure, especially in the main town of Charlotte Amalie.

How can you get there?

Fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. From there, you can head into Charlotte Amalie. Most visitors rent a car to get around the island, especially considering beach hopping is a popular activity.

Where should you stay?

Stay at Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard’s Castle if you want to stay close to the action in Charlotte Amalie. From there, you can explore the island while staying close to popular restaurants and entertainment venues.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, head to Margaritaville Vacation Club. Even if you’re not a Margaritaville type, you’ll enjoy this lovely beachfront resort—I promise.

St. Croix (USVI)

St. Croix is the most unique of the US Virgin Islands. It’s flatter than other islands and is also home to some of the best coral reefs in the region. Divers often head to the island, but snorkelers will have just as much to do.

How can you get there?

You can take a flight to Henry E. Rolhsen International Airport, which includes service from US cities like Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Others connect through San Juan in Puerto Rico. You can also take a ferry from Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. Just know that ferries can take up to two hours to reach St. Croix from St. Thomas.

Where should you stay?

The Buccaneer is one of the most famous resorts in the Caribbean thanks to its long history. It’s kind of a cult favorite for families and couples that revisit St. Croix thanks to its unique country club atmosphere, massive property, and all-inclusive offers.
Want total beach access? Book at Carambola Beach Resort. All you need to do is wake up, head to the beach or pool, veg out for a few hours, feed yourself, and then repeat the next day.

St. John (USVI)

Trunk Bay, St John, United States Virgin Islands (Getty)

As the smallest and least developed of the Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport, St. John is best for travelers who are independent and not afraid to get off the tourist track. In exchange for a little extra work (or spending more to stay at an ultra-lux resort), you’ll be treated to a more private, tropical escape.

How can you get there?

There’s no airport on St. John, meaning the only way you’ll arrive is via boat. You can fly into Cyril E. King Airport in Charlotte Amalie, then catch a ferry to St. John from Red Hook. The ferry only takes around 20 minutes.

Where should you stay?

I mentioned ultra-lux in the introduction, which was a reference to The Westin St. John Resort Villas. Though very expensive, it’s one of the most highly rated resorts in the USVI, making it worth your money and the time it takes to reach.
If you’re looking for a more boutique take on luxury, book a stay at Lovango Resort. It’s deliciously stylish, letting you drop off the map like a celebrity.

8 Las Vegas Alternatives to Keep in Mind in 2026-26

It might be a bit too soon to declare whether or not Las Vegas is really dead.

But there’s one certainty: Its prices have gone from affordable to pricey to shocking in a short amount of time. Thanks to additions like the Sphere, the Grand Prix, and an NFL franchise, prices city-wide are skyrocketing. Gone is the classic Strip of yore.

Again, though they’re not the only cause, those hiked prices are certainly one reason traffic in Vegas has been slow this summer.

Have you been looking for an alternative spot to spend your cash without going broke—while also guaranteeing a great time? I’ve got picks for you. Just because Vegas is possibly on its deathbed, that doesn’t mean it’s time to mourn.

Here are the best Las Vegas alternatives based on what kind of vibe you want. No overspending needed.

8 Las Vegas alternatives for gambling, entertainment, and more

A very Vegas vibe: Reno, NV
An upscale version with plenty of spas: Palm Springs, CA
A historic beach town with large casinos: Atlantic City, NJ
A casino town that’s made for gamblers: Shreveport, LA
A funky Southern Vegas-style hub: Biloxi, MS
A casino hub with natural wonders: Niagara Falls, NY
Like Tahoe, but cheaper: Eugene, OR
The ‘international’ pick: San Juan, Puerto Rico

8 Las Vegas alternatives

A very Vegas vibe: Reno, NV

Historic and vibrant Reno, Nevada skyline (Getty)

Reno is cooler than you think. It’s a great Vegas alternative because it touches on those same desert vibes and total casino access. You’ll feel like you’re in a teeny-tiny version of Las Vegas as you pop into places like Grand Sierra, Peppermill, Atlantis, and Silver Legacy—all beloved local casinos.

But there are other adventures awaiting you in Reno. From learning how to work with raptors to skiing large slopes to a massive, hands-on science museum, it’s got surprises around every corner.

An upscale version with plenty of spas: Palm Springs, CA

Not too many people associate Palm Springs with casino culture. Instead, it’s usually renowned for its gorgeous architecture, bougie history, and world-class spas. That being said, you can explore a range of casinos around Palm Springs, from Augustine Casino to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

A historic beach town with large casinos: Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City, New Jersey needs no introduction—especially if you’ve seen series like Boardwalk Empire. I’m not suggesting AC’s history closely mirrors the dramatized HBO show, but it helped introduce this coastal casino hub to Americans who aren’t too familiar with New England.

Expect large-scale casinos and sportsbooks, like the Hard Rock and Borgata, along with more family-friendly activities.

Atlantic City is a popular stop on the Jersey Shore, meaning you can bring the family along without feeling like you’re missing out. Whether you want to walk the Boardwalk, post up on the beach, or explore one of the city’s interesting entertainment venues, you’ll have plenty to explore.

A casino town that’s made for gamblers: Shreveport, LA

Shreveport, Louisiana, USA skyline (Getty)

Don’t head to New Orleans if you want the best casinos in Louisiana—you’ll find them farther north in Shreveport, which has historically been a gambling hub. Personally, I’d go for the riverboat casinos just for the ambiance and legacy, but don’t forget about betting on the ponies at Louisiana Downs before heading out to dine along the water.

One last tip: skip out on Shreveport in the summer. The city feels like a swamp until the humidity lessens and the milder temperatures settle in. One last tip: delve into Shreveport’s history—it’s cooler than you might think.

A funky Southern Vegas-style hub: Biloxi, MS

Along with Shreveport, Biloxi is one of the South’s top gambling hubs. Biloxi is one of the most popular stops along the Gulf Coast, making it great for beach trips. Though Biloxi has faced over a decade of slow rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, it’s all bright lights and big fun at places like Beau Rivage Casino and the Hard Rock.

A casino hub with natural wonders: Niagara Falls, NY

Fireworks over the Falls, facing Niagara Falls (Getty)

Forget the waterfalls—there’s so much more to discover in Niagara Falls. From Art Alley to the exciting drag of Clifton Hill, there are non-falls adventures waiting around every corner. There are even a few top-notch casinos, including Seneca Niagara Falls Resort on the US side and Fallsview Casino Resort on the Canadian side.

Like Tahoe, but cheaper: Eugene, OR

Lake Tahoe is one of the best places that Americans can head for a balanced trip that involves Mother Nature and gambling… but it’ll set you back almost as much as Las Vegas. If you want a scenic gambling trip, head to Eugene, Oregon instead. Along with casinos, you can explore craft breweries, delightful wineries, and, of course, hike and swim through some of the area’s greatest natural corridors.

Just know that the most popular casinos are located outside of town. Three Rivers Casino Resort is located around thirty minutes away, along with Seven Feathers Casino Resort.

The ‘international’ pick: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Of all the Las Vegas alternatives offered here, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the most adventurous. The island has many casinos, sportsbooks, and racetracks to choose from. Cock fighting is still the national sport, as well, in case you want to bet on poultry pugilism.

There’s Casino Metro, Casino del Mar at La Concha, and Stellaris Casino are three of the most popular picks in the capital of San Juan. However, you can find larger casino-resorts the further you wander from the capital, such as the Wyndham Grand Rio.

Visiting Barcelona for the First Time? I’ve Got 6 Booking Tips from a Pro Guide

Ah, Barcelona.

It’s one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, a contemporary hub for art, philosophy, street fashion, and more that comes with a bold Catalan flavor. It’s also my transplant home for the last seven years.

And a bit of a war zone when it comes to tourism.

Over the last few years, I’ve covered tourism in Barcelona from a variety of angles. I’ve laid out my favorite pastry shops and Christmas markets, explored issues like de-listed Airbnbs and why some people protest tourism, and tried to showcase other locations around Barcelona that are worth visiting.

As a local resident, I’m fairly qualified to point you in the right direction when it comes to things to do, as well as local social issues. But I didn’t grow up in the city, nor do I speak Catalan, meaning there are many elements to Barcelona that are beyond my purview.

In short, there’s a lot I could learn from a local tour guide who has both academic and professional experience in showcasing the very best of their city. Similar to Panos, an expert guide in Athens who represents ToursByLocals, Cayetano also has the qualifications you need for a great tour of Barcelona.

Want to see the difference between a regular tour guide in Barcelona and one who is specifically trained to take you to some of the city’s best sites—and beyond?

Whether you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time or returning, here’s what the city’s most highly rated guide, Cayetano, wants you to know.

6 reasons to book a qualified guide if you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time

#1: The difference is decades of experience

Here’s the rub: Catalonia is full of tour guides, but not all of them have the necessary experience to offer a balanced tour—one that includes lots of learning, a few laughs, and other elements like knowing how to keep a group of possibly jet-lagged and hungry tourists happy.

Guides like Cayetano have the necessary background to put together a memorable tour that’s worth the money. Not only does he have the right licenses (which I dig into below), but he has a whopping 27 years of experience in hospitality—and that includes time spent working in the United States, which makes him particularly great for American visitors.

#2: And an academic background

As with visiting Athens, you need a guide in Barcelona who is qualified to summarize thousands of years of history. I mean that literally; Barcelona has been around for a long time, and a basic tour guide probably won’t have the experience or skillset to convey a lot of information in an eloquent and entertaining way.

Guides like Cayetano have experience, as I covered above, but they also have rigorous academic training. He has a bachelor’s degree in Art History, along with a second in Business (Hospitality and Tourism). He also has two separate licenses: an Official Guide License from the Catalan Government and another from the Professional Licensed Tour Guides Association of Catalonia.)

#3: Catalonia actually tests its tour guides

Like you might have noticed in the previous section, being an official guide gives Cayetano a leg up on other guides in Barcelona. Not all tour guides actually have the correct licensing from local tourism authorities, but Cayetano has passed specific exams (including linguistic exams) to earn his travel guide ‘badges’, so to speak.

This status allows Cayetano to take visitors into official monuments and museums. More importantly, in my opinion, it also shows that this is Cayetano’s profession—not just a hobby or a side hustle.

**#4: You need a great introduction to Catalonia (and the Mediterranean…)**

One reason Cayetano loves his job is introducing visitors to the Mediterranean way of life, which is a lot different than how we live in the United States. If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, that gives you a great introduction to not just the city, Catalonia, and Spain, but the entire region.

That being said, visitors need to learn about Catalonia and its historic involvement with Spain. It’s a very complex and emotionally charged topic, meaning locals like Cayetano are the most qualified to discuss it. I could give you an intro based on my seven years in Barcelona, but it would be paltry compared to the depth and insights that a tour guide like Cayetano can share.

#5: Qualified guides know Barcelona—and beyond

That brings me to my next point: Barcelona is smaller than you might think, and Cayetano knows when, where, and how to take you away from its busiest sites and off the beaten path.

Some of his favorite excursions are the Sagrada Familia, and Montserrat, and its various experiences, including seeing the Black Madonna (La Morenata) and the boys’ choir (Escolonia de Montserrat). The latter is located outside the city and is one of the most iconic destinations in Catalonia that many first-time visitors miss.

He also offers tours such as a Game of Thrones-themed tour of Girona via high-speed train and a dual Montserrat & Manresa tour on St. Ignatius, for example.

#6: Licensed tour guide = priority access

Licensed tour guides in Catalonia get priority access to most of its museums and monuments. That’s an important note here because you don’t want to waste time when you’re on vacation. As Cayetano says, “Time is money when you are traveling.”

Booking a tour with an official guide like Cayetano saves you time when you need it most, preventing you from wasting precious hours in line. Or, more importantly, wasting precious time trying to figure out how to buy tickets online—without realizing they’re already sold out.

One last tip: Cayetano recommends visitors stay in one spot when visiting Europe

I have one last piece of advice if you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time: try to stay in the area for most of your trip. Cayetano wishes that more visitors knew that the best way to experience locations around Europe is to stay for more than a few days to really invest in the local culture and atmosphere. He doesn’t like to see visitors wasting their time in airports and train stations.

Best Spa Resorts in Santa Fe, New Mexico—7 Picks, No Big Chains

What makes Santa Fe the cultural capital of the Southwest? It depends on who you ask.

You’re likely to hear responses related to the city’s historical significance (it was founded in 1610, a decade before the Mayflower reached Cape Cod), its unique pueblo and colonial architecture, its delicious Tex-Mex and Mexican food, and its breathtaking desert landscape.

All in all, from its food to its architecture to its history, Santa Fe marks the confluence of indigenous traditions with Spanish, American, and Mexican flair.

But that’s not all.

Similar to Palm Springs, it’s also a lesser-known resort hub where you can find state-of-the-art spas inside cozy, stylish hotels.

Do you know where to find the best spa resorts in Santa Fe, New Mexico? You’ve got more than a dozen options at your fingertips, but I suggest skipping out on major chains if you want to maximize the Santa Fe spirit for a more intimate, atmospheric stay.

Here’s where to go for the best spa resorts in Santa Fe, beyond big chains and large hotels.

Best spa resorts in Santa Fe, New Mexico: at a glance

Best spa resorts in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Hotel Santa Fe, The Hacienda & Spa (4-star)

As Santa Fe’s only Native American-owned spa resort, Hotel Santa Fe gives you the keys to a traditional Pueblo retreat. The décor includes original pieces from Native American artists, while calming traditional music can be heard in communal spaces. As an added perk, Hotel Santa Fe is located close to downtown, meaning you can jump in and out of the local scene as desired.

Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort (4-star)

Though Ojo Santa Fe also isn’t far from downtown, you have the benefit of stepping onto 77 acres of private land in the La Cienega Valley. The location is important because it gives you access to three different spring-fed thermal soaking pools. They’re the perfect place to prep your body for a spa treatment… or ten.

The Inn of The Five Graces (5-star)

The Inn of The Five Graces isn’t just the best spa resort in Santa Fe, or the Southwest, or even the country. It’s often listed amongst the world’s premier spa resorts. It’s nabbed awards from US Travel & Leisure and has stayed as the top traveler-reviewed hotel on TripAdvisor for over ten years. Should I keep going? From the spa services to its on-site dining to its concierge staff, it’s a five-star experience.

Ten Thousand Waves (4-star)

This Japanese-style spa resort lets you stop in with day passes or book multiple nights. It’s perfect for anyone who’s after world-class massage and hydro-therapy, plus anyone who wants a little East Asian flair with their spa experience. The ground is peaceful, the restaurant is small but highly acclaimed, and the décor is incredibly relaxing.

La Fonda on the Plaza (4-star)

Located right in Santa Fe Plaza, this hotel has gone to great lengths to maintain the grounds’ historical elements while offering modern amenities. That unique combination is definitely attractive, but look out for other perks like two on-site dining options and the open-air lounge that overlooks the Plaza.

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi (5-star)

Only steps away from the Santa Fe Plaza, the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi lets you stay in the heart of the city. But the real magic is its handcrafted furnishings, traditional ceilings with wooden beams, and Adobe kiva fireplaces. It’s a love letter to the Southwest—one that comes with fantastic in-room massages. Not a full spa resort, but definitely worth checking out.

Inn and Spa at Loretto (4-star)

Looking for a comprehensive spa resort? Similar to Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort, Inn and Spa at Loretto has just about everything you could need for pure relaxation. This boutique spa resort has only 138 guestrooms for a more intimate feel. It also has a world-class full-service spa and multiple art galleries on the grounds, plus casual fine dining and a Southwestern-style garden.

8 Best Travel Accounts on Instagram That I Follow Obsessively

Last week, I covered popular travel destinations that get a little overblown and over-romanticized thanks to social media feeds, from Venice to Bali to Vegas in the daylight.

But that doesn’t mean all travel accounts on social media are misrepresentative.

In fact, some social media content can spark your interest in travel, culture, language, nature, fashion, and more. Like a great TV show or podcast, these accounts can open our eyes to new worlds, so to speak.

Ready to get inspired to travel the world without leaving your couch?

I’ve rounded up some of the best travel accounts on Instagram that I’ve been following for at least a year, if not longer. Some of them even offer their own tours that you can book and join, in case you’re interested!

My 10 favorite travel accounts on Instagram

An American with a bicycle attempts to get from Italy to Japan: @RideWithIan
An Egyptian relies on the kindness of strangers to circumnavigate the globe without flying: @Omar.Nok
An American woman traveler hitchhikes from China to Cape Town: @hitchhikercourtney
A Swiss fashionista combines fashion with culture on her global travels: @by.regiina
A polyglot blows minds in China by speaking perfect Mandarin: babyqueenpolyglot2.0 (TikTok)
A pro photographer captures wild bands of horses in Montana: @swgoudge
A Swedish woman living above the Arctic Circle shows what life on Svalbard is like: @sejsejlija
An American man and his Nigerian wife travel the world and navigate immigration: @authentic_traveling
An English woman travels the world and nerds out on history: @byjacklynn
English history buffs cover Europe’s darkest history at major landmarks: @shiverdarkhistory

Travel accounts on Instagram you’ll follow for years

@RideWithIan

An American with a bicycle attempts to get from Italy to Japan

Someone needs to call Ian’s mom and ask if she’s okay because he’s been cycling across Iran and Afghanistan for close to a month, and it’s been pretty remarkably dangerous. And by really dangerous, I mean he was accidentally in Iran on June 22, if anyone remembers what happened at that time.

If you like wayward and even ill-advised adventures, the open road and cycling, and intercultural exchanges, Ian’s task of crossing all continents on his bike will keep you on the edge of your seat. His daily vlogs are short and have insights that remind me a bit of Anthony Bourdain.

@Omar.Nok

An Egyptian relies on the kindness of strangers to circumnavigate the globe without flying

I first heard about Omar Nok when he left Egypt last year with the goal of making it to Japan without flying. After achieving that goal following months of hitchhiking, bus rides, hikes, and more, Omar set off on a new adventure: to circumnavigate the globe without getting on a plane.

Similar to Ian, you can expect a lot of intercultural interactions that will fuel your wanderlust. There’s another layer of added intrigue since Omar is Egyptian, meaning you’re not watching another American traipse across the globe.

@hitchhikercourtney

A Canadian traveler hitchhikes from China to Cape Town

When you get off the phone with Ian’s mom, call Courtney’s mom to check in. Following a successful stint hitchhiking from Morocco down to Cape Town, Courtney has upped the ante by extending that distance from China to Cape Town.

As she does, she defies just about every piece of travel advice I’ve given solo women travelers and hitchhikers alike. But why would she need my advice? Courtney is clearly intelligent, intuitive, and has great karma on her side.

@by.regiina

A Swiss fashionista combines fashion with culture on her global travels

Fashion might be my favorite form of cultural expression—and no one captures my awe like fashionista Jessi Regina. I’ve been following her for over a year as she jumps across the globe with her seriously jaw-dropping getups in tow.

With heritage from Angola, family in Brazil, and having been raised in Switzerland, she’s a global citizen with a flair for artistic outfits. (She also took my advice once on why flying with a legacy airline is worth it, and it was one of my favorite Instagram moments ever.)

If you like to keep your travel content super casual and you appreciate fashion, you’ll love Jessi Regina’s account.

babyqueenpolyglot2.0 (TikTok)

A polyglot blows minds in China by speaking perfect Mandarin

Rosy is a polyglot, meaning she’s got a thing for learning complex languages quickly. I fell in love with her Instagram account, which has since moved to TikTok. You get to see her exploits in China as she mingles, makes friends, and introduces many locals to black culture and identity.

Rosy is what I would call a cultural ambassador, always willing to share her perspectives with those she meets. She’s also fluent in Mandarin, which gets the attention of many Chinese people in her videos. It’s fun, it’s positive, and it’s the type of content that inspires people to travel further than they have in the past.

*If you’re looking for Mandarin language classes, you can find them on Rosy’s website.

@swgoudge

A pro photographer captures wild bands of horses in the US

No need to jet-set across the world with the best Instagram travel accounts—there’s plenty to enjoy in the US. SW Goudge is a wild horse photographer who mostly spends her time in Arizona.

Her account showcases the latest ups and downs of the wild horses that roam the high desert. I’ve been locked in for a while now. Look out for a stallion named Rascal—he’s a super-star.

@sejsejlija

A Swede living above the Arctic Circle shows what life on Svalbard is like

The sun is about to set in Svalbard, Sweden, an island that’s north of the Arctic Circle. And it’s not going to rise again until next May. Welcome to the dramatic day-to-day of life on Svalbard, a quiet and snowy town where you might see polar bears roaming, whales passing by, and some of the best Northern Lights shows in the world.

This social media account became so popular that its creator, Cecilia Blomdahl, actually published a book about her life on the island. It’s a NYT Bestseller, just to showcase how weirdly fascinating this quiet, frigid location is.

*If you’re looking for an adorable coffee table book, Cecilia recently published a book based on her life on Svalbard.

@authentic_traveling

An American man and his Nigerian wife travel the world and navigate immigration

An American country-counter (that’s someone who wants to visit every nation on Earth) has been sharing his slow travel journey for years. When Chris traveled to Nigeria, he fell in love with a local woman named Adenike—and so added a new chapter to his global journey.

Today, his account includes insights and tips on the process of many intercultural and immigration topics, from throwing a traditional Nigerian wedding to covering why his wife’s US visa still hasn’t been approved. Think of it like part wanderlust, part helpful tips, and part love letter to Africa. (Chris and Adenike also travel outside Africa.)

*If you’re looking for immigration advice and travel tips for Africa, Latin America, and beyond, Chris and Adenike have a fantastic website with many resources.

@byjacklynn

An English woman travels the world and nerds out on history

Do you like art, history, and culture? Nobody brings it alive like Jacklynn. As she puts it, she often goes into an existential crisis when she visits her favorite historical locations—like the Tower of London, Versailles, the Sphinx, and more.

But Jacklynn also does a great job of highlighting lesser-known locations. For example, she just visited Syracuse, Sicily—a spot I usually visit once a year—and showcased a few historical sites I’d never heard of.

*If you love history, Jacklynn offers unique guides and meet-ups around Europe. She recently hosted an event at a chateau in France, as well. Très cool!

@shiverdarkhistory

English history buffs cover Europe’s darkest history at major landmarks

Europe is layered with history—and a lot of it is hidden, forgotten, and dark. What I love about this account is that its creators dive deep into tiny historical markers that most people would pass up, from placards on walls in French villages to public parks in London that are also mass graves.

For example, one recent post covers small slabs laid along a Parisian crosswalk—thousands step on these five nondescript stones every day without realizing they once fixed the city’s most active guillotines into the ground. Suddenly, a basic crosswalk becomes the site of many grizzly executions.

If you like well-researched and slightly spine-tingling historical investigations, especially those set in well-known European locations, let the disturbed minds at ShiverDarkHistory take you into the fold.

Starting October 17, Airbnb is Updating its Service Fees Policy

After a tough year for the private rental company, Airbnb is shifting policies in a major way.

The goal is to improve price transparency for guests, who are often hit with added service fees after they select their dates. In short, the price displayed on Airbnb isn’t the final price that guests will actually pay.

So, what’s the change in fees? And will tourists who use Airbnb be footing the bill in the end? Let’s dig in.

The new Airbnb fee policy mostly applies to hosts

Airbnb’s new approach to service fees shifts the responsibility away from guests and places it on hosts. Previously, hosts paid a 3% service fee while guests paid between 14-16% service fees on each rental.

Those service fees were displayed later on, meaning the list price for the rental was lower before these mandatory fees were added on. (This service fee is applied by Airbnb, and is separate from fees that the host sets, such as pet and cleaning fees.)

Starting on October 27, 2025, hosts will be responsible for footing the entire 15% service fee. This date applies only to hosts who use a PMS or a property management system, meaning it applies to professional hosts who manage multiple properties.

Independent hosts who list properties they own personally won’t be footing the whole service fee until December 1, 2025. That means this change first applies to US Airbnb hosts who use a PMS to manage their properties. Later, it will affect independent hosts.

…But travelers will likely foot the bill

Airbnb’s policy change signals that the company is willing to make major changes to its operations following ongoing negative press in areas hit with under-regulated tourist markets, such as Mexico City and Barcelona.

That being said, the changes are likely to be forwarded to guests who book rentals on Airbnb. Already, resources for Airbnb property managers (independent and otherwise) are to simply adjust their nightly rates to reflect the 15% service fee.

In short, though Airbnb will require its hosts to foot the bill starting in late October, the company has no control over how hosts price their units. If they want to raise prices to match the new service fee policy, it’s par for the course.

Additionally, Airbnb has not made it mandatory for hosts to prove that they have the correct licensing to host a property—which is a major pain point for protesters in areas wracked with overtourism.