Listen to today’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-travellers-daily/id1842920062
True Travellers Society Podcast — December 10, 2025
Today’s podcast episode was created from the following stories: a mix of travel trends, tech shifts shaping how we book, political travel’s influence, arts and culture highlights, and practical tips for creatives and travelers alike.
Un lugar de Costa Rica es elegido el destino más popular del mundo para 2026: con selva, playas vírgenes y un auge sin precedentes
Source: La Nación
By: Jailine González Gómez | Date: December 10, 2025
Skyscanner’s trend report shows Costa Rica’s Limón surging nearly 300% in flight interest, earning the top spot for 2026. Travel + Leisure spotlights Tortuguero and Cahuita for wildlife and reefs, plus laid‑back beaches from Playa Chiquita to Punta Uva and surf from Cocles to Brava. Limón’s Afro‑Caribbean culture and October Carnival reflect the broader shift toward authentic, nature‑forward travel.
Selectour’s new AI aims to fix the booking handoff problem
Source: Skift
By: Adriana Lee | Date: December 9, 2025
France’s Selectour launched a Kleio‑powered system that captures traveler intent and hands conversations to human advisors without losing context. The rollout boosts efficiency now and positions the network for agent‑to‑agent commerce as AI systems begin negotiating and booking with one another. For travelers, that means smoother planning and faster, more personalized bookings across Selectour’s agencies.
Inside the Israel lobby’s lesser-known tool for influencing Congress: free travel
Source: Mondoweiss
By: Andrew Ancheta | Date: December 9, 2025
Ethics disclosures show Israel is the top destination for privately funded congressional travel, accounting for over a quarter of international gift trips in 2025. AIEF sponsors the majority, with other groups curating itineraries through varying ideological lenses to shape policymakers’ views. The growing volume and tailored agendas underscore travel’s potency as an influence tool alongside campaign spending.
Nobel officials unsure whether Machado will collect her peace prize
Source: RTÉ News
By: Unknown | Date: December 9, 2025
Officials canceled a press conference amid uncertainty over Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado’s ability to travel to Oslo to accept the Nobel Peace Prize. Facing charges in Venezuela and threats of being labeled a fugitive if she leaves, her attendance would carry major implications for her safety, return, and leadership. Family and dignitaries are in Oslo ahead of Wednesday’s ceremony, with heightened security in place.
Friends of LVA Foundation aims to break fundraising record with annual Experience the Arts Gala: Brilliance
Source: GlobeNewswire
By: Unknown | Date: December 9, 2025
Friends of Las Vegas Academy sets February 6, 2026 for its “Experience the Arts Gala: Brilliance,” aiming to break fundraising records to sustain tuition‑free arts education. Recent investments exceed $175,000 for equipment, scholarships, and the Master Artist Series, with The PENTA Building Group as first‑ever Diamond Sponsor and Live Nation Las Vegas as an Opal Sponsor. The gala showcases student talent and invites sponsors to help secure vital programs amid budget uncertainty.
Photographer wins debut Tom Stoddart Award for South Africa school project
Source: PetaPixel
By: Matt Growcoot | Date: December 9, 2025
Laura Pannack won the inaugural Tom Stoddart Award for Excellence for “The Journey Home from School,” documenting the risks Cape Flats children face commuting. The prize includes £5,000 and collaboration with GOST Books on a publication, chosen from 184 submissions across 47 countries. The award celebrates Stoddart’s legacy and long‑form documentary work that blends visual storytelling with social insight.
10 hard things that are worth doing for yourself in life before it’s too late
Source: Marc & Angel
By: Marc Chernoff | Date: December 9, 2025
This piece argues that consistent daily action—not sporadic bursts—drives lasting change, offering 10 practices from mindset shifts to taking the next small step. Key themes include letting go of rigid expectations, embracing discomfort, and aligning to core values to build resilience. Actionable takeaway: pick one practice and work it for 20 minutes a day to compound progress.
Redditors are roasting these terrible photography tips. And they’re right
Source: The Phoblographer
By: Nilofer Khan | Date: December 9, 2025
Photographers called out unhelpful advice like “fix it in post,” “pick a niche,” and “gear doesn’t matter,” offering nuanced counters instead. The consensus: get it right in‑camera, diversify skills, match gear to the job, and stop working for free beyond building an initial portfolio. For working shooters, it’s a reminder to set boundaries and build sustainable business practices.
Jet Set: The Hawaii packing edit
Source: Observer
By: Morgan Halberg | Date: Not provided
A minimalist packing list favors versatile essentials—pareos, a sleek one‑piece, everyday sunglasses, raffia accessories, and comfortable sandals—over bulky wardrobes. Breathable fabrics and packable sun protection keep looks polished from beach to dinner. It’s a blueprint for traveling light without sacrificing style.
Friends of LVA Foundation aims to break fundraising record with annual Experience the Arts Gala: Brilliance
Source: GlobeNewswire
By: Unknown | Date: December 9, 2025
This parallel announcement reiterates the February 6, 2026 gala’s goal to surpass prior fundraising and keep LVA’s programs thriving. Sponsors like PENTA and Live Nation support upgrades, scholarships, and professional mentorships, with an open call for additional partners and ticket buyers. Expect a showcase spanning music, theater, dance, and visual arts & media.
