A Letter from Our Editor: Escaping the Tourist Traps

The damage from the COVID-19 pandemic can be measured in job losses, global GDP, and, most importantly, human lives. Quantifying how the outbreak isolated us as individuals, communities, and nations is harder. The idea of a global citizen traveling the world for new experiences was quickly replaced by home-bound workers scrolling for unwatched shows on Netflix. Although difficult to quantify, the problem has drawn the attention of health authorities.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, The U.S. Surgeon General, recently issued a report titled Our Epidemic of Loneliness, in which he concludes that loneliness “has to be a public health priority that we consider on par with tobacco, with substance use disorders, with obesity and other issues that we know profoundly impacted people’s lives.”

Sounds like the perfect time for Worth’s annual travel issue. Travel is more than just visiting new places or checking off a bucket list. It’s about immersing ourselves in new cultures, expanding our perspectives, and creating lasting memories. For this issue, we send writers to the top (Nepal) and bottom (Antarctica) of the planet and more than a few places in between.

We sent Evan Cornog to hike the Himalayas in Nepal. Known for its towering peaks, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, a trip to Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trails offer stunning views of snow-capped peaks, colorful prayer flags, and friendly locals. Trekking in Nepal is also an opportunity to connect with the local culture and way of life, whether staying in tea houses or interacting with the Sherpa people.

We sent Jonathan Russo to cruise Antarctica, the planet’s southernmost continent, to explore one of the last untouched wilderness areas in the world. Surrounded by icebergs, penguins, and other wildlife, his journey reminds us that we are all part of a global ecosystem and that our actions can profoundly impact the environment. It’s a humbling experience that can inspire us to be more mindful and responsible in our daily lives. Also, the food on board was fantastic.

This issue also allowed us to highlight Worth’s Rising Cities for 2023, many of which are destinations in their own right. Charleston, SC, for example, offers a rich history and vibrant culture. From its cobblestone streets to historic homes and gardens, Charleston is a city steeped in tradition and Southern hospitality. The careful balance of preservation and progress has made Charleston stand out. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with world-class restaurants, museums, and galleries that showcase the best of Southern hospitality and creativity. At the same time, Charleston has preserved its historic architecture and landmarks, ensuring visitors and locals alike can appreciate the city’s past while looking toward the future. With a growing economy and a commitment to sustainable development, Charleston is a city that is truly on the rise and one that is leading the way in urban conservation and growth.

Finally, we scoured the world to find the most unique beaches. From pink sands to proximity to rainforests, we found beaches that offered sun, sand, and something extra. My favorite is Secret Beach in Dominica. Secret Beach is a pristine stretch of sand tucked away in a secluded cove accessible only by boat. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by crystal clear waters, gentle waves, and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Although, when I arrived by kayak the sand was covered with crabs…but they politely scurried away and left me to spend a perfect afternoon with a beach entirely to myself.

As humans, we need connection and community. We also need to be alone. Travel, done right, can deliver the best of both.