Understanding “Pura Vida” Understanding “Pura Vida” (image credits: wikimedia) The term “Pura Vida” is more than just a catchy slogan in Costa Rica—it’s a way of living that has shaped the country’s national identity. This phrase, meaning “pure life,” is heard everywhere, from greetings to goodbyes, and even as an answer to everyday questions. It …
Sophia Reed, M.Sc. Economics
Vietnam: A Budget Traveler’s Paradise Vietnam: A Budget Traveler’s Paradise (image credits: unsplash) Vietnam stands out as one of the most wallet-friendly destinations for travelers in 2025. The daily cost of living is astonishingly low, with meals at local markets running between $1 and $3, and hostel beds for as little as $5 a night. …
Use the Hotel Safe Use the Hotel Safe (image credits: pixabay) Many hotel rooms now offer a personal safe, and it’s one of the most reliable options for storing your valuables while traveling. According to the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, about 70% of guests actually use these safes, and most report feeling more …
Bali, Indonesia Bali, Indonesia (image credits: unsplash) Bali shines as a paradise for couples looking for romance outside Europe. This Indonesian island is covered in lush rice terraces, mystical temples, and golden beaches that seem straight out of a dream. Couples can indulge in sunset dinners on Seminyak Beach, or share a peaceful moment at …
Overview of Protectionism in the Travel Industry Overview of Protectionism in the Travel Industry (image credits: stocksnap) Protectionism has become a powerful force shaping the way the travel industry operates in recent years. When the Trump administration took office, it introduced a series of protectionist measures aimed at boosting the American economy and protecting jobs. …
Tariffs Are Changing the Price of Travel Tariffs Are Changing the Price of Travel (image credits: pixabay) Tariffs, those taxes placed on goods brought in from other countries, have started to hit travelers right where it hurts: their wallets. The U.S. government’s recent trade policies have focused on protecting American manufacturers, but the fallout has …
The Silk Road: A Journey Through Cultures The Silk Road: A Journey Through Cultures (image credits: unsplash) The Silk Road stands as one of the most legendary trade routes in human history, weaving its way for over 4,000 miles and connecting China with the Mediterranean. This route was much more than just a highway for …
Travel Fallout: A Wave of Uncertainty Travel Fallout: A Wave of Uncertainty (image credits: pixabay) Imagine the streets of once-bustling cities suddenly silent, hotel lights dimmed, and attractions shuttered. That’s the reality many states have faced as travel dried up. The sudden collapse in tourism has left local economies gasping for air, with small businesses, …
Switzerland: A Dream Priced Out Switzerland: A Dream Priced Out (image credits: unsplash) Switzerland stands out as a country where the fantasy of home ownership is often dashed by sky-high costs and tight regulations. With the average home costing around CHF 1.2 million—over USD 1.3 million—many Swiss residents find themselves locked out of the property …
The Magic of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – Korea The Magic of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – Korea (image credits: wikimedia) There is almost nothing as haunting and surreal as standing on the edge of the Korean Demilitarized Zone. This 160-mile strip slices the peninsula in half, separating North and South Korea in a way …