Polaroid of the Week: Spotting Turtles Amid Canada's Intense Heat Wave

I’ve launched my European train adventure, and the first rides were exceptional. My inaugural journey whisked me from Berlin to Amsterdam in under seven hours—a city I’ve explored multiple times, though my last visit was over a decade ago. With rave reviews of its beauty and my hazy memories, I spontaneously included it in my Euro train itinerary. Amsterdam’s distinctive charm captivated me instantly upon arrival: its iconic canals, legions of bicycles, stunning 17th-century merchant houses wi

Rather than sharing another Polaroid from Berlin, Ive chosen to highlight my current spot: Brighton, England, where Im spending much of this week. After visiting for Brighton Pride last summer, I never imagined returning so soon—travels often surprise me! (Recall my unexpected Amazon adventure in March? No plans for that either.)Just last week, a beach day in Brighton was the furthest thing from my mind, but Im thrilled with this turn. Summer sunshine finally graced Britain over the weekend, del

We arrived in Buenos Aires last Friday, knowing that Yerba Mate—a traditional herbal, caffeinated infusion—is immensely popular across South Americas southern countries. What surprised us was how ubiquitous it is: locals carry their mate everywhere in a cuia, the hollowed-out gourd used for drinking. For those accustomed to toting a large Starbucks coffee all day, the appeal is relatable—but Porteños take it further, balancing a small gourd in one hand and a giant Thermos of hot water in the ot