Stories

Has “overtourism” been eclipsed by “touriphobia”? At a time when tourist-centric economies need visitors more than ever, a counter-wave of touriphobes – those with an irrational fear of or aversion to tourists – seems to be rising. Should summer 2020’s tourists be revered or reviled?

A cultural hub and haven for creatives, Thessaloniki is often likened to San Francisco or Shoreditch. These comparisons only tell part of the story. In Greece’s second city, traces of the past and a cosmopolitan atmosphere born of diverse cultural influences form a dynamic metropolis with a rhythm of its own.

Lebanese photographer Gregory Buchakjian spent nearly a decade locating, documenting and photographing abandoned buildings across Beirut. Now he is surrounded by the rubble of those devastated buildings following the explosion that shook the entire city.

Coinciding with the launch of episode 5 of our travel podcast, The Upgrade, we’re sharing Marie Louise Sciò’s insider recommendations to one of our most beloved holiday haunts: Italy.

Is it possible to enjoy the feel-good factor of a far-flung getaway without getting eco-guilt for the plane ride there? In a post-pandemic world, virtual holidays may not be so novel. Considering their environmental impact and economic practicalities, we ask: will an online experience ever match up to travelling IRL?

In light of the recent disaster in Beirut, and in sympathy with those affected, we're retrospectively publishing this story from Vol. 25: The Pioneer Issue.

Overqualified and underpaid, a Filipino travel journalist tries to get a break in the UK journalism industry. Is London’s creative community as diverse as it makes out? As a lack of Britishness holds back her career, she works hard to convince colleagues that she’s more than her passport.

In our post-colonial world, the influence of the West is deep-rooted across many cities. We consider the impact of foreign gentrification and how to travel in a way that promotes meaningful experiences and supports local communities.

On the south coast of Cornwall, Falmouth is known for its maritime history and thriving university population, but it’s the eclectic arts scene that reveals the town at its most colourful. We’ve picked out Falmouth’s best galleries and artisan shops – and found some great restaurants to fuel your explorations too.

As travel restrictions ease, we’re waving goodbye to lockdown insomnia and embracing sleep retreats for a well-earned dose of circadian recalibration.

Legalised in many US states, cannabis has had a boost in its cool credentials. But is this budding green industry really the new black? As white business owners disproportionately dominate marijuana dispensaries, the weed boom exposes a two-tier justice system in which racism prevails.

We all view the world differently. As a travel photographer and writer tackles progressive sight loss, she turns to analogue cameras to capture images that find meaning beyond what is visible. Through her infrared film and introspective words, we glimpse her perfectly imperfect perspective.

Journeying from the UK to the Caribbean and beyond, a South London air hostess flies in the face of racial prejudice. She lets us in on the challenges faced by Black cabin crew.

For most people, a city break isn’t complete without ogling a towering religious megalith or two, but how often do you stop to consider where your entry fee is going and what happens outside of visiting hours? In a world where religion continues to be used to suppress LGBTQ+ civil rights, do flying visits pose moral dilemmas for well-meaning global citizens?

It takes several trips around the world to reveal that diversity is not a burden, but a strength. As one mixed-race woman immerses herself in a kaleidoscope of cultures abroad, she discovers a sense of belonging she’d struggled to find at home.