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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.

Germany: The Relentless Champion of Recycling Germany: The Relentless Champion of Recycling (image credits: wikimedia) If there’s one country that seems obsessed with recycling, it’s Germany. In 2025, Germans are recycling about 67% of their waste, which makes them the leader worldwide. This isn’t just a lucky accident; it’s a result of strict laws and …

Read More about 7 Countries Excelling at Recycling & 3 That Lag Significantly

Have you ever landed somewhere dreamy, heart pounding with excitement, only to feel like every smiling local sees you as a walking dollar sign? It’s a gut punch, right? The world is full of jaw-dropping destinations, but sometimes the magic fades fast when you realize your wallet is the main attraction. Let’s take a no-fluff …

Read More about 15 Places Where Tourists Are Just Viewed as Cash Cows

Close your eyes for a second and picture this: the chill of morning dew on your toes as you step onto a sunlit terrace, laughter echoing from a bustling market below, and the rich aroma of cinnamon buns swirling in the air. Some places just seem to wrap their arms around you and invite you …

Read More about 7 Most Joyful Countries to Live In (3 Worst to Avoid Included)

Japan: A Solo Traveler’s Dream Japan: A Solo Traveler’s Dream (image credits: unsplash) Japan is often described as a paradise for solo travelers, and for good reason. The country’s train and subway systems are famously efficient, making it simple for anyone to navigate the bustling cities or tranquil countryside. In 2024, the Japan National Tourism …

Read More about The 5 Easiest Countries for Solo Travelers (And 3 That Are Totally Confusing)

Switzerland: Setting the Gold Standard Switzerland: Setting the Gold Standard (image credits: unsplash) Switzerland’s sparkling lakes and rivers aren’t just beautiful—they’re the backbone of some of the world’s safest and most reliable water systems. The Swiss take water quality seriously; over 80% of their drinking water comes from protected groundwater reserves, much of it shielded …

Read More about 6 Nations with Premier Water Systems, 2 in Deep Crisis

The Allure of Santorini, Greece The Allure of Santorini, Greece (image credits: unsplash) Santorini stands out as a beacon of beauty in the Aegean Sea, famous for its blue-domed churches and cliffside villages. The island experienced a notable 15% jump in tourism during 2024, a testament to its enduring popularity. Walk through the ancient streets …

Read More about 9 Serene Islands to Explore (And 2 That Feel Overhyped)

Venice, Italy: Capping Visitor Numbers Venice, Italy: Capping Visitor Numbers (image credits: wikimedia) The ancient canals of Venice have always drawn in throngs of tourists, but the city finally reached its breaking point. In 2025, Venice put its foot down with a strict reservation system, allowing only 25,000 visitors per day. This was a bold …

Read More about 7 Countries Taking a Stand Against Overtourism

Switzerland: A Benchmark for Clean Water Switzerland: A Benchmark for Clean Water (image credits: unsplash) Switzerland is often the gold standard when it comes to water purity, blending breathtaking alpine landscapes with crystal-clear streams and lakes. More than 80% of Swiss drinking water comes from groundwater sources, naturally filtered through the Alps’ mineral-rich rocks. According …

Read More about 7 Countries with Exceptional Water Quality, 3 with Serious Issues

Colombia: A Transformation Story Colombia: A Transformation Story (image credits: pixabay) Colombia’s reputation has changed in ways most people would never have believed a decade ago. Once haunted by images of cartels and danger, today’s Colombia is a magnet for curious travelers, and the numbers prove it. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Colombia’s …

Read More about These 10 “Risky” Countries Are Actually Surprisingly Safe for Travelers

Mexico: Where Perceptions Clash with Reality Mexico: Where Perceptions Clash with Reality (image credits: unsplash) If you ask people about Mexico, you’ll probably hear concerns about crime and safety. However, what many headlines miss is that popular tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum have seen improvements in safety. Official government reports indicate …

Read More about 9 Countries That Feel Risky but Are Surprisingly Safe