"She complimented the Italian stranger, saying he appeared appealing, sparking an immediate romantic connection between them."
🎉 CNN Travel's Weekly Newsletter:
Get ready for a thrilling ride through the globe! Savor the latest scoop on destinations, aviation, food, and accommodations, straight to your inbox with our Unlocking the World newsletter. 🌎 🛫 🍽️ 🏨
💕 Love at First Sight
In the summer of 2022, California model Ambika Mathur found herself in Milan, cat-sitting and feeling a bit stagnant after a breakup. The tempting allure of "Emily in Paris" led her on a European adventure, culminating in an invite to an Amalfi Coast party that brought her face-to-face with her Italian Prince Charming. With his tantalizing presence, she found love almost instantly.
Meanwhile, American Kerri Cunningham and British exec Dirk Stevens locked eyes on a ferry to France back in 1993. Although they were just teenagers, their love story blossomed, only to be interrupted by life's ups and downs. But destiny brought them back together in Ireland, and Dirk couldn't resist asking, "Maybe we can make this work?"
🍻 Britain's Boozy Bards
Britain has a unique pub culture, laced with customary norms that are as old as these watering holes themselves. For example, standing at the entrance of a flat-roofed pub requires caution, while sharing crisps (not potato chips) should be done with openness. Pub closings are marked by warning bells that ring twice, and engaging in friendly banter with fellow patrons is all part of the experience.
One legendary chain of 800 pubs, Wetherspoons, is renowned for its renovated buildings, cheap drinks, and hearty food. While this pub empire garners both admirers and detractors, one cannot ignore its impact on the local pub scene. 🍻
🇯🇵 Seafood Sensations
CNN's Lilit Marcus stumbled upon an enchanting culinary adventure in Seoul's Noryangjin Fish Market, where she sampled an assortment of fresh seafood delicacies, including live octopus. Although this experience stretched her culinary limits, it was unforgettable! 🐙
🌍 Traveling for a Cause
California resident Cameron Mofid has made it his mission to visit every UN-recognized country and territory, a feat he achieved earlier this year. His obsession with travel has remarkably helped him cope with his OCD. For him, traversing the world wasn't just about geography - it was about embracing uncertainty, discovering tranquility, and forging connections with people from every culture.
🎹 Piano Wanderlust
Danny Kean has been traveling North America for 20 years, playing the piano on the back of his pickup truck. Whenever he stops, he invites passersby to partake in a musical moment together. His love for humanity drives him to spread joy and break down barriers.
🚍 A Year of Adventures
Struck by personal tragedies and illness, writer Kim Davis was compelled to seize the moment and embark on a year-long global adventure. Packing her bags was no easy task, as she meticulously considered every item that would join her on this life-altering journey.
📷 #1: Camera and extra batteries - to capture every memorable moment 📸
📷 #2: Universal adaptor - to keep all electronics charged 🌍
📷 #3: Travel pillow and eye mask - for restful recovery afterwards 🧤
📷 #4: Waterproof backpack - to shield valuables in rainy weather 🌧️
📷 #5: Gifts for new friends - as a way to bridge cultural gaps 🎁
📷 #6: Travel insurance - for peace of mind while exploring new lands 🗺️
🐙🐟🐙 Seoul's Gigantic Seafood Market
Taste buds at the ready! CNN's Lilit Marcus navigated the bustling rows of Seoul's Noryangjin Fish Market, offering an array of fresh seafood, including live octopus and crabs. While the vibrant market can be overwhelming, it's an unforgettable experience! 🐟
In case you missed it... 🔛
- A runway in Southeast Asia once known as "the most secret place on Earth" during the Cold War, eventually transforming into one of Europe's grandest hotels 🛫 🏨
- A man pretending to be a flight attendant to secure numerous free flights is awaiting sentencing for his crimes 🛬
- Welcome to Xinhui, where valuable tangerine peels sell for nearly $10,000 🍊 💰
📰 Stay tuned for more exciting travel stories, news, and tips! Sign up for CNN Travel's Unlocking the World today! 🌎 🛫
- Embarking on a thrilling journey around Europe, Ambika Mathur effortlessly transitioned from cat-sitting in Milan to discovering love among the Amalfi Coast's vibrant entertainment scene.
- Tracing the rich tradition of Britain's pub culture, one can find oneself lost in heartwarming conversations, laid-back ambiance, and mouthwatering food, at the local Wetherspoons establishment.
