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Sophia Reed, M.Sc. Economics

Sophia Reed loves to travel and explore new cultures. She is also the Chief Editor of TBL.

U.S. Updates Travel Advisory for Mexico U.S. Updates Travel Advisory for Mexico (image credits: unsplash) The U.S. Department of State has recently updated its travel advisory for Mexico, highlighting increased risks in several regions. While many tourist areas remain under Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”), certain states have been elevated to Level 4 (“Do Not …

Read More about Mexico on High Alert: Updated U.S. Travel Advisory

A Warm Welcome in Quebec’s Eastern Townships A Warm Welcome in Quebec’s Eastern Townships (image credits: wikimedia) In Quebec’s Eastern Townships, a new tourism campaign warmly invites American visitors. A promotional video released on May 26 features an English-speaking tourist who, upon admitting he’s American, receives a heartfelt hug from a French-speaking hotel receptionist. This …

Read More about Are American Travelers Still Welcome in Canada Amid Canadian Boycotts?

The Growing Urge to Disconnect The Growing Urge to Disconnect (image credits: unsplash) Imagine waking up in a new city and not reaching for your phone. No social media, no endless news scroll, just the world in front of you. In 2024, the Digital Wellness Institute found that 67% of people felt overwhelmed by their …

Read More about Travel | Why I Took a No-Phone Trip—and You Might Want To, Too

The Memory Lane Revolution Hits Travel The Memory Lane Revolution Hits Travel (image credits: pixabay) Picture this: You’re scrolling through your social media feed when you see your childhood friend posting photos from the exact same theme park you visited thirty years ago, complete with the same cotton candy stand and carousel that captivated you …

Read More about Nostalgia Travel: Reliving Childhood Holidays in 2025

Sweden: Seamless Access and High Turnout Sweden: Seamless Access and High Turnout (image credits: unsplash) Voting in Sweden is almost effortless. Early voting, mail-in ballots, and accessible polling stations ensure nearly everyone can participate. In 2022, an impressive 87% of eligible voters cast ballots, according to the Swedish Election Authority. Swedes can even register online, …

Read More about 9 Nations Where Voting Is Easy — and 3 Where It’s Still a Challenge

Finland: A Breath of Fresh Air Finland: A Breath of Fresh Air (image credits: unsplash) Finland stands out as a beacon of clean air in a world where pollution headlines often dominate. The country’s air quality is among the best globally, with PM2.5 levels consistently below 5 µg/m³, according to the World Health Organization. Finland …

Read More about 7 Countries With the Cleanest Air & 3 With the Dirtiest in 2025

Imagine stepping into a place you’ve dreamed about for years, only to find yourself surrounded by swarms of selfie sticks, sky-high prices, and a nagging feeling that reality just doesn’t match the pictures. In 2025, more travelers than ever are coming home with bittersweet stories of destinations that fell short of the fantasy. Whether it’s …

Read More about Top 2025 Destinations Tourists Now Regret Ever Visiting

Mexico City, Mexico Mexico City, Mexico (image credits: unsplash) Mexico City’s reputation as a risky spot is hard to shake, but the numbers just don’t back it up anymore. In 2025, the homicide rate in Mexico City has dropped by 20% compared to previous years, signaling real progress in safety efforts. This city now ranks …

Read More about 9 Destinations That Appear Risky but Are Safer Than You Think

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 …

Read More about Can Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” Lifestyle Really Boost Happiness?

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. …

Read More about 10 Affordable Countries for Travelers (And 3 That Could Bust Your Budget)