7 Of The Rudest Things You Could Ever Do In An Airbnb

Posted on 29/03/2026 by Boris Clair

When you stay at a hotel, the rules are mostly clear: blasting music at 2am is not OK. Running through the halls is not OK. Someone at the front desk will intervene if things get out of hand.

Airbnbs and other holiday shares operate in more of a grey zone. You’re basically staying in someone else’s home, and it doesn’t have a concierge or staff on-site to set expectations or step in when guests cross a line.

“We never take a vacation from good manners,” said Jodi RR Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. “Even when you are off and away, you still must take into consideration how your behaviours impact those around you.”

Even if no one is watching, the way you act can have real consequences – from negative reviews to cancelled bookings or fines. Here are the seven rudest things you can do in an Airbnb, according to etiquette experts.

Taking things that aren’t yours

“Towels, décor, kitchen tools, robes, or specialty products are not souvenirs,” explained Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert in Palm Beach, Florida. “Even small items add up, and replacing them is costly and frustrating. If you are unsure whether something is complimentary, ask. When in doubt, leave it.”

You may be thinking: Is this even worth mentioning? Apparently, yes. Hosts routinely report stolen items – from pillows to utensils. At first, I optimistically wondered whether some of the confusion stems from hotel culture, where toiletries, slippers, and mini bottles are fair game. In a short-term rental, however, all items are simply part of someone’s home inventory.

Smoking (anywhere)

“Most rental properties are nonsmoking and most guests get that at this point,” Smith said. “But the guests think (hope?) that if they are outside, the no-smoking does not apply. However, unless otherwise noted, the entire property is nonsmoking.”

If that sounds overly strict, there’s a reason for it. Smoking on rental properties can cause lingering odours, damage furnishings, and create outdoor fire risks. Discarded cigarettes tossed into planters or mulch have ignited porch fires, leading to serious property damage.

Being noisy

On vacation, my everyday routine goes out the window. I sleep in, stay out later, and generally abandon the discipline required for a 9am conference call. But just because I’m on holiday doesn’t mean everyone else is.

“Late-night gatherings, screaming kids, drunken arguments, and loud music can disturb nearby neighbours,” Whitmore said. “Observe quiet hours and be mindful that your neighbours are not on vacation.”

And it’s not just the 1am DJ set that can get you in trouble – though most short-term rental agreements include no-party clauses, so that’s worth noting. It’s also the less conspicuous noises that add up: slamming doors in a shared hallway, dragging suitcases at dawn, speakerphone calls on a balcony, or kids racing up and down stairs in a multi-unit building.

Ghosting your host

Nobody likes to be ignored, especially when you’re staying on their property. “Prompt communication builds trust,” Whitmore said. “Be a considerate guest. Respect the host, the neighbours and the property, and you will always be welcomed back.”

That courtesy goes both ways. Whether you have a question about turning off a fire alarm or need to let the host know you’ve broken something, it’s better to speak up than stay silent.

“If there’s a problem, speak up,” said Nick Leighton, co-host of the Were You Raised by Wolves? podcast. “Hosts would much rather know about a problem during your stay and try to address it rather than just learn about something for the first time in your negative review.”

Leaving your rental reasonably tidy and respecting the space goes a long way with Airbnb hosts.

Treating your rental like a hotel

When I’m staying at a hotel, I regress a little to my teenage self: towels on the floor, bed unmade, room service tray lingering longer than it should. It feels like part of the perk. No disrespect intended, just the luxury of not having to reset the space before you leave.

But at a holiday rental, you don’t have those same perks.

“Treat the home as if you were staying with a friend or family member,” said Whitmore. “Follow house rules and leave it reasonably tidy. Don’t create excessive mess, move furniture, or break something without telling your host.”

Inviting friends or pets

It may feel harmless to have your mom stay the night before an early flight or let a friend crash on the couch after dinner. But in a short-term rental, occupancy limits aren’t just suggestions. They’re often tied to insurance policies, local regulations, homeowners association rules, and cleaning arrangements. Adding even one unapproved overnight guest can put hosts in a difficult position.

“Unannounced visitors raise safety and insurance concerns,” explained Whitmore. “If you plan to bring a guest or a pet, get approval first. Many hosts may charge an extra cleaning fee.”

While an extra overnight guest can create insurance or occupancy issues, pets raise even more concerns – even if you’re certain yours “wouldn’t do anything.”

“Your pup may be extraordinarily well-behaved, but if the property says no pets, you need to adhere to the agreement,” Smith said. “Whether it is cameras on the property, just nosy neighbours or the cleaning staff, most owners end up learning of a pet on the premises. (Certified service animals aside.)”

Ignoring the checkout procedure

You’re packed, you’ve called your car, and you’re mentally already at the airport. But before you shut the door, did you take out the trash? Is there still half a pint of milk in the fridge?

“Be sure to read and understand the checkout instructions before you book,” Leighton said. “Some can be quite onerous, but once you’ve agreed, you’ve agreed! So, be sure to follow the list before departure.”

Experts recommend leaving the rental as you found it. That can include tidying up messes, returning moved furniture to its original place, and taking care of smaller details like turning off lights and adjusting the heat.

“Be sure to understand how to strip the beds, where to put the wet towels, whether you need to empty the refrigerator, and how to handle the garbage and recycling,” Smith said.

I’m Officially Too Old For Hostels — But This £80-A-Night ‘Hub’ Is The Bougie-On-A-Budget Answer To Iceland

Posted on 27/03/2026 by Boris Clair

At a certain age, you just have to accept you are officially too old for some things. Now firmly in my 30s, my previously cemented love of budget hostels has expired. Once upon my twenties, a broken night’s sleep thanks to an anonymous bunkmate’s snoring was simply a minor inconvenience; now it will ruin my entire next day. The gymnastics of shuffling in and out of clothes under a bunkbed’s duvet used to be a breeze; now I’d probably end up slipping a disc.

However, my budget doesn’t exactly stretch to my developed taste for ‘comfort over everything’. I’m firmly in my accommodation ‘inbetweener’ era and there aren’t a whole whack of digs that bridge the gap between boutique and budget.

This struggle becomes even more of an issue when you factor in an expensive travel destination like Iceland. A trip to ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’ notoriously comes with a serious price tag, and according to The Times, Iceland is facing a reduction in tourism as a result, with international visitors dropping by 6% last year.

So, how can I make a trip to the top destination of many a travel wishlist achievable on a budget, without compromising on comfort? Well, CityHub might just have the answer.

CityHub Reykjavik

Now, when I say ‘pod hotel,’ you need to immediately banish the thought of those tiny, coffin-sized capsules in Japan. Yes, while CityHub Reykjavik is technically a pod hotel, I can guarantee that you’ve never seen something quite like this before.

CityHub hotels (they also have locations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Copenhagen) blend private sleeping spaces with vibrant hangout areas and premium amenities at an affordable cost. A concept that is, quite frankly, music to my ears, back and bank account.

Their private, pod-esque if you will, sleeping areas are called Hubs and despite being small, they pack a big punch – we’re talking king-size beds, smart storage that doesn’t compromise on space, Bluetooth speakers, air con and heating. The best bit? You can enjoy this all without the fear of someone cracking the big light on at 3am.

The secret? Opting for an L-shaped pod over the stereotypical coffin. Hubs are a bit like a clever game of accommodation Tetris – one ‘up’ Hub is connected to a ‘down’ Hub, offering vertical space at the start of each that acts like a foyer.

Some clever planning means plenty of space (without a price tag).

CityHub invited me to try out their accommodation for myself and honestly, the biggest shock was the silence – I was so surprised at my inability to hear anyone in the adjoining Hub. I’m a tall gal and unlike other pod hotels I’ve been to, I could comfortably sit upright in bed without fear of a concussion. Even with a second person in the Hub with me (ooo-er), there was plenty of space for our suitcases and room to get changed in – we just had to take it in turns.

‘Shared bathrooms’ don’t exactly scream luxury (pause for flashbacks to the horrors of a hostel shower), but CityHub does things differently. You’d be forgiven for thinking that you were actually in a spa while popping to the loo – their Pinterest-worthy bathrooms boast warm terracotta walls and high pressure showers as well as complimentary towels and Rituals amenities.

As for the communal spaces, again, it’s a far cry from the hostel lounges and kitchens of yore. The Hangout (CityHub’s reception, bar and lounge area-in-one) features a self-service system in which guests can tap their own beers and refreshments using the digital wristband they’re given on checking in (which also doubles as your Hub key). Forget someone badly playing Oasis on a guitar in the corner – The Hangout is perfect for relaxing or even working in.

The real showstopper, though? CityHub Reykjavik’s rooftop hot tub. There really isn’t anything like soaking yourself in geothermally heated water while sub-zero Icelandic air whips around you – all with an incredible view of the night sky. If you’re lucky, sometimes it’s even possible to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of the tub.

Thought it couldn’t get any better? Buckle up, because the best bit of all of this? The cost. While the average hotel price in Reykjavik for April is hovering around £156 per night, you can snag a Hub for as little as £60 to £80 – and you could get this price even lower depending on what promotions and discounts are available.

CityHosts

Now, the issue with Iceland trips is that you only have to step outside your hotel and it suddenly feels like you’ve spent £20. It’s notoriously expensive and with endless guides online as to where you should and shouldn’t go, which tours you should and shouldn’t book, it can all be really overwhelming.

Enter the CityHosts – CityHub’s onsite concierge service that does a whole lot more than just check you in. As Reykjavik locals themselves, the hosts on duty will happily help you set up cost efficient tours to experience as much Icelandic culture as possible without the hefty price tag. After all, who actually knows the best spots better than people who live in Iceland all year round?

We were pointed toward a walking foodie tour that let us sample the most iconic Icelandic dishes from local businesses (although I still can’t say fermented shark is for me). And on one (utterly freezing) evening I fulfilled my dream of seeing the Northern Lights in all their glory after being sent out exploring with a pocket-friendly guide who knew the best viewing points. Another Iceland expert took us on a day trip around the country’s most famous natural landmarks and we knew we were guaranteed a brilliant meal afterwards thanks to the restaurant recommendations from the CityHosts.

So what exactly is the key to CityHub’s ability to provide accommodation that bridges the gap between budget and bougie? Well, it’s all in their very clever climate-friendly planning.

CityHub transforms empty urban buildings into hotels, avoiding new construction which as a result cuts CO₂ emissions per guest by 89% compared to the European hotel average. Their modular, recyclable rooms, in-house smart tech and harnessing of Iceland’s famous geothermal energy all add up to a model that’s efficient, scalable, and certified B Corp, a title held by just 0.1% of hotels globally.

I’m already planning a trip to Copenhagen purely based on the fact that there’s a CityHub there – because as someone’s outgrown dorms but not budget-friendly travel, I know I’m guaranteed the perfect fit.

To book a stay at CityHub visit:https://cityhub.com/reykjavik/

Exclusive: Survey Finds All UK Women Under 25 Feel Unsafe Travelling Alone

Posted on 12/03/2026 by Boris Clair

Appetite for solo travel among women isn’t showing any signs of slowing – last year, tour operator Jules Verne said solo travellers accounted for 46% of bookings, with almost 70% of these bookings coming from women.

But while appetite is clearly there, that’s not to say women feel safe when they do travel alone. Far from it.

A new survey conducted by hospitality company The Social Hub, along with Opinion Matters, as part of their “Room For Her” campaign, has found that 100% of women aged 18-24 from the UK say they worry for their safety when travelling alone.

The study polled 2,000 women from eight countries in the UK and Europe.

What else did the survey find?

Their data also showed:

Only 12% of women aged 45-54 travelling for business said they felt “very safe”.
40% of 18-24-year-old women say they “don’t feel safe at all” after it gets dark on their travels,
29% of women surveyed reported being “followed or watched” while solo travelling (that figure rose to 41% for women age 18-24).
16% of women surveyed said they’d experienced physical abuse or assault while solo travelling.
57% of women said 24/7 hotel staff would make them feel safer.
45% said better lighting would help.

These are “eye-opening” results

A 2024 National Police Chiefs’ Council report declared violence against women and girls a “national emergency” in England and Wales, with a possibly low estimate of about two million women and girls targeted a year.

Amber Westerborg, a director of sustainability and impact at The Social Hub, said she hopes the survey encourages the hospitality industry “to start talking and take action, ensuring safe travel for all”.

“The results are eye-opening and shine a light on a real problem across the industry,” she said.

“Women should not have to change their behaviour, limit their ambition or decline an opportunity because they don’t feel safe.”

Humidity-Proof And Carry-On Friendly: The 7 Curl Products I Never Travel Without

Posted on 11/03/2026 by Boris Clair

We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, HuffPost UK may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI – prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.

Travelling with a locked-in beauty routine is not for the weak, let me tell you.

When it comes to curl care, getting your perfect hair routine down pat is enough to make you feel like a Nobel-prize-worthy scientist.

It can take years of effort to get it right – trust me, mine did. And now, you’d have to pry my favourite products away from my cold, dead hands before I give them up.

So a little thing like baggage allowance isn’t going to stop me from bringing my essentials along with me.

Curious just what those essentials are? They’re worth their weight in gold to me, but don’t worry – I didn’t get into the business to gatekeep.

‘Bare Beating’ Might Be The Most Irritating Public Habit Right Now

Posted on 22/02/2026 by Boris Clair

Have you ever been trapped on a train carriage with someone watching TikToks from their phone without headphones? Or seated on a plane by a passenger blasting music? Or even stuck in a doctor’s office waiting room as a fellow patient broadcasts radio commentary on a sports stream?

If so, you’ve experienced what some call “bare beating”. This term refers to the act of playing music, videos, podcasts or other audio out loud in public without headphones – essentially treating shared space like a personal living room.

“This. Is. Rude. There just is no other way to slice it,” said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and host of the Were You Raised by Wolves? podcast.

“You’re imposing your choices on a captive audience. Nobody decided they wanted to listen to that YouTube video, and yet here we are all having to endure it without our consent.”

Jodi R.R. Smith, the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, agreed, emphasising that bare beating is “unequivocally rude”.

“The presumption that everyone wants to listen to what you are listening to is simply unacceptable,” she said. “This is doubly so if others are unable to move away from you – at work, in an elevator, on public transportation, etc.”

In those tight quarters, what might even seem like low or moderate volume to you can feel disruptive to someone sitting inches away.

“Whether the distraction is visual, or noise related, when someone is intruding on another person’s public space, it’s not easy to look away and ignore,” said Diane Gottsman, the author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life and founder of The Protocol School of Texas.

“Think of it this way: if a child was doing it in a public space, tight quarters or a restaurant, others would be annoyed and blame the parents for not adjusting the behaviour. When an adult does the same thing, it’s important for them to self adjust and be respectful of others in close proximity.”

Children might get grace for this behaviour because they aren’t as aware of social norms, but for adults who should know better, it’s simply rude. And depending on where you are, it might even be subject to legal penalties.

“Some people just aren’t mindful of how their behaviour affects others and simply have no idea how far phone speakers can carry sound,” Leighton said. “Spoiler alert: It’s way farther than you think.”

Are you guilty of "bare beating" in public? Here's what etiquette experts think of the "unequivocally rude" behavior. — Are you guilty of “bare beating” in public? Here’s what etiquette experts think of the “unequivocally rude” behavior.

Indeed, “bare beaters” don’t necessarily have negative intent and are sometimes blissfully unaware.

“The reason people are doing this is because they are trying to pass the time or may not even realise their volume is offensive,” Gottsman said. “But when you’re sitting inches away from another person, even lower noises are amplified.”

There may even sometimes be understandable reasons for the behaviour. Someone with hearing difficulties may not realise how loud their device is, or they may be experiencing technical issues. Still, Gottsman said, unless it’s an emergency, the courteous move is to wait to listen to the audio when you’re in private.

“Of course, using earbuds and utilising captions is a reasonable option,” she added.

And while bare beating feels like a modern behaviour, it’s not entirely new.

“Forcing strangers to become your unwilling audience has been an issue that’s plagued humanity since the dawn of time,” Leighton said.

Smith pointed out that methods and norms have shifted over the decades.

“Back in the ’80s, being a DJ to those in your surrounding area was actually considered the norm,” she said.

“The person with the giant boombox would play it so that everyone nearby could enjoy the sound,” she said.

“But times change and nearly everyone has the ability to listen to what they like almost anywhere – so long as they are wearing headphones or earbuds.”

For those who flout modern etiquette rules by bare beating, sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge.

Smith recalled a recent experience at an airport gate where a man was loudly streaming a soccer game on his phone as it was time to board.

“After a few minutes, I turned and asked him what he was watching,” she said. “He excitedly told me his favourite team was playing. I told him that I was having a hard time hearing the boarding announcements and asked if he could use earbuds. He gave his head a quick shake and looked around sheepishly.

“He had not realised how loud his phone was or how many people were giving him ‘the look.’ He apologised to me and the others around him as he put in his earbuds.”

Still, Gottsman emphasised that deciding whether to speak up is a judgment call.

“Is it rude to intrude on other people‘s personal space? The answer is yes,” she said. “But understand that we cannot determine another person‘s reaction, and if you can ignore it for a very short subway ride, it’s probably best to do so.”

Regardless of whether you choose to confront someone over this behaviour, the important thing is to avoid bare beating yourself. Remember: Just because you can press play doesn’t mean everyone else signed up to listen.

Six Things You Should Know Before Travelling Abroad For Surgery

Posted on 21/02/2026 by Boris Clair

Around 523,000 people from the UK travelled abroad for surgery in 2024, with the most popular destinations for ‘medical tourism’ being Turkey, Poland and Romania, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

People might travel abroad for treatments such as dental and cosmetic surgery, cancer treatment, weight loss surgery, fertility treatment, organ transplants and stem cell therapy, according to experts at TravelHealthPro.

“Transgender travellers may seek hormone therapy and gender reassignment surgery abroad,” they added.

The growth in medical tourism appears to stem from a mixture of factors, including higher disposable incomes, increased readiness to travel for health care, low-cost air travel and the expansion of internet marketing, TravelHealthPro said.

NHS waiting lists have also been growing in recent years, though NHS England noted it delivered more elective activity in 2025 than any other year in its history, “helping cut the waiting list to its lowest level since February 2023”.

If you’re one of the many people tempted to go abroad for surgery or treatment, Qian Huang, international claims manager at William Russell, has shared some key considerations below.

What you need to know before travelling abroad for surgery

“The idea of having surgery abroad can be nerve-wracking, particularly when it comes to questions of safety,” Huang said.

“Many people considering surgery abroad decide not to go because of concerns about safety, the quality of the medical care, or not understanding the foreign healthcare system.

“However, in reality, many international hospitals and clinics follow standards of care that match or exceed those found in the UK, US, or Europe. The key is knowing what to look for.”

How to find an accredited hospital abroad

Medical accreditations are a key indicator of a hospital’s commitment to international standards.

One of the most widely recognised is the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, often considered the global gold standard, which evaluates hospitals on areas such as infection prevention, medication safety, staff training, patient communication, and emergency readiness.

To find an accredited hospital abroad, patients can check official accreditation bodies’ websites, verify information on hospital websites, contact the facility directly, or consult medical tourism networks and national health authorities.

What to check before booking surgery

To steer clear of issues, Huang shared six factors to be aware of before booking surgery abroad.

1. Lack of accreditation or vague claims

“Be wary of hospitals that mention ‘world-class standards’ without naming an actual accrediting body,” he said. “Reputable facilities will proudly display credentials from recognised organisations like JCI, ACHSI, or Temos.”

2. ‘Too good to be true’ pricing

Competitive pricing is probably one of the top reasons people consider surgery abroad, but Huang warned ultra-low prices should raise alarm bells.

Check the qualifications of the surgeon, what’s included in the cost, and whether the aftercare and follow-up appointments are covered, he added.

3. Poor communication or pressure tactics

If you’re struggling to get clear answers from the hospital or feel rushed into making a decision, consider taking a step back. Trustworthy providers are transparent, patient, and more than happy to talk you through the details.

4. No clear aftercare plan

Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. A good hospital will give you a personalised aftercare plan, including advice on travel, medication, and any physical restrictions, before you agree to surgery.

5. Inconsistent or missing reviews

Take the time to search for independent reviews and testimonials before considering which hospital to have the surgery at. A complete lack of online feedback, or reviews that sound overly scripted, can be a red flag.

6. Limited information about the surgical team

When researching your hospital, you should be able to find the names, qualifications, and experience of the surgeons who’ll be treating you. If this information is unavailable or unclear, you need to proceed with caution.

Psychologists Say Your Airplane Seat Choice Reveals Way More Than You Realise About Your Personality

Posted on 08/02/2026 by Boris Clair

As I settled in for the 17-hour flight from Australia to the United States, I turned to the vacant seat between my wife and me and smiled. While other passengers might have thought it was a stroke of luck, they didn’t know this was deliberate. It was the result of my seat selection obsession.

The ritual starts the moment I book a flight: I check legroom measurements and read seat reviews, then study the airline’s seat map to predict which seats will stay open. There are rules: I go for an aisle seat on the right side of the aircraft, and on wide-body planes with a 3-3-3 configuration, I pick one in the middle section.

Even after I’ve locked in my seat, I can’t stop. In the days leading up to departure, I’m refreshing the “Manage My Booking” page, monitoring which seats fill up, debating whether to switch to 12D or stick with 11D.

Turns out, plenty of travelers have their own versions of this routine. Some travelers insist on the same side of the plane every time. Others will only sit in odd-numbered rows. A few refresh seat maps obsessively, fixated on bathroom proximity or meal service order.

Performance psychology specialist Sam Wones said this quirk runs deeper than seat preference. “It reflects a need for control in environments where individuals feel they lack it,” he explained. “Ritualistic actions like seat-map checking can reduce anxiety about the unknown.”

When everything about air travel feels chaotic, securing a specific seat sends a signal to your nervous system that something is manageable.

These rituals can be remarkably specific. Georgia Hopkins, a freelance travel writer, only sits in odd-numbered rows: 11A ideally, or 13A/15A if that’s taken. Rows 12 or 14 simply don’t exist in her world. “I can’t do even numbers. If not 11, I have to sit in an odd-numbered row,” she said. She also insists on a window seat as far forward as possible, so she boards earlier, exits faster and is served first.

Row 25. Always row 25. Amanda Kendle is so committed to this specific row that she will not change it, even if a better option opens up. Not because it has extra legroom or is closer to the exit, but because it is her lucky number.

“Some part of my anxious flyer mentality tells me if I change my seat, the plane will crash and my original seat would have been safer,” she explained. When traveling with her teenage daughter, who insists on a window seat, Kendle still claims row 25; she just takes the middle instead of the aisle. Her flexibility still operates within strict boundaries.

Your plane seat preference might reveal a lot about you, according to travelers and experts.

These rituals feel personal, even irrational. Chris Lipp, a social psychologist at Tulane University who studies power dynamics, said they expose how confident we feel in public spaces.

“People who feel more powerful are less sensitive to sitting next to someone,” Lipp explained. “They’re comfortable with less interpersonal space, less worried about others encroaching on their space, and less vigilant because they don’t feel threatened by others.”

The dreaded middle seat, which most people avoid, illustrates this power dynamic. Lipp notes that powerful people can tolerate it. They will claim both armrests without hesitation, exuding a confidence that likely extends beyond the cabin. Anxious travellers either guard the armrest like a border wall or avoid it completely to prevent any contact.

Seat location also reflects travellers’ approach to control and efficiency, Wones says. Front-of-plane passengers want to disembark quickly and avoid feeling trapped, valuing efficiency and a faster process. Back-of-plane flyers operate differently. They’re more relaxed about waiting, less concerned with being first off the aircraft and often actively avoid the chaos of the front rows. Neither preference is inherently better, but they reflect different tolerances for waiting.

Beyond front vs. back, another choice reveals personality: window or aisle. Wones said introverts gravitate toward window seats for privacy and control, while extroverts prefer aisle seats for mobility and easier interaction.

Lisa Burns, founder of The Travel Photography Club, understands this completely. On a flight from Tokyo to Helsinki over the Arctic Circle, she ended up in an aisle seat with the window passenger asleep, shutter closed. “All I could imagine were icebergs and glaciers below,” she said. “I had to practice deep breathing because it took so much self-control not to lean across and look out the window.” For a travel photographer, being trapped on the aisle meant missing exactly what she needed to see.

I’m firmly in the aisle camp, though my reasons are less about interaction and more about autonomy. I can move whenever I want without performing a gymnastics routine to climb over a sleeping passenger or getting the side-eye when I’m up and down for the third time in an hour. On a long flight, this freedom matters. Maybe it makes me someone who needs to feel in charge of something, even if it’s just bathroom breaks. Or perhaps I just drink too much water.

My right-side preference has a practical foundation. Analysis of Air Canada and American Airlines seat data shows passengers disproportionately choose the left side, which means the right side offers better odds of an empty seat beside me.

Wones said that once you unconsciously favour one side, your brain locks onto it. “Some people unconsciously favour one side due to how their brain processes spatial awareness or comfort,” he explained. Maybe it felt slightly better once, or you had a good flight on that side. The reason doesn’t matter. Once the pattern exists, you stick with it, even when both sides are identical. It becomes less about logic and more about what feels right.

If you’re reading this thinking, who obsesses over seats?, that reaction itself reveals something, according to Wones. Strategic planners are highly conscientious and prefer control. Acceptors are more adaptable, with lower anxiety and a higher tolerance for uncertainty.

When my wife catches me refreshing the seat map days before a flight, she thinks I’m ridiculous. She’s probably right. But 17 hours squeezed into economy with an empty seat next to us? That’s when ridiculous becomes genius.

‘Inheritourism’ Explains Why People Travel The Way They Do

Posted on 07/02/2026 by Boris Clair

“Land snorkelling.”

“Sleepcations.”

“Noctourism.”

There’s a seemingly endless array of quippy terms to describe rising travel trends and preferences.

One particularly interesting term is “inheritourism”, which really gets to the heart of why different individuals travel the way that they do and how family plays a role.

Below, travel experts break down the meaning of “inheritourism”, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of this holiday phenomenon.

What is ‘inheritourism’?

“Inheritourism reflects how travel preferences are passed down across generations,” said Jess Petitt, senior vice president or strategy, insights and full service brands at Hilton.

“Many people inherit travel preferences from their parents, with family experiences often shaping how people travel well into adulthood.”

A 2026 travel report from Hilton identified “inheritourism” as a notable trend for the new year – with 66% of travellers surveyed by the hotel brand saying that their parents have influenced their choice of accommodations, 60% saying they guided their choice of loyalty programs and 73% saying they shaped their general travel style.

“I think inheritourism shows up most clearly in how people define what ‘comfortable’ travel looks like,” said travel blogger Esther Susag. “Many travellers inherit not just destinations, but entire travel styles from their parents. For example, I often notice that people who grew up only doing cruises or all-inclusive resorts tend to gravitate back to those formats as adults.”

Travellers accustomed to the ease of having everything in one place might be more hesitant to go off the beaten path with independent accommodations, hidden gem destinations or locations that require more planning or cultural navigation.

“That same pattern extends into how people pay for travel,” Susag said. “I’ve noticed that travellers whose parents used travel credit cards and understood points and miles tend to feel much more comfortable navigating loyalty programs and booking elevated experiences. On the other hand, people who grew up saving for years for one big trip and paying mostly in cash or with a single credit card often carry that same cautious mindset forward and are hesitant to open multiple cards or experiment with points strategies.”

She added that many parents remain deeply involved in their adult children’s travel decisions, often financing trips with their own loyalty points or preferred brands. Multigenerational travel is increasingly popular, thus exposing new generations to the same kinds of choices.

“Over time, that becomes their baseline for what travel ‘should’ look like,” Susag said. “As travel has become more expensive and more intentional, people are less willing to experiment and more likely to stick with what they know works. That often means repeating the travel patterns they grew up with, whether that’s specific destinations, hotel brands or trip formats.”

It’s only natural that people who grew up vacationing in a certain way as children would adopt similar travel behaviors as adults.

It’s only natural that people who grew up travelling in a certain way as children would adopt similar preferences. Katy Nastro, a spokesperson and travel expert for the flight alert service Going, pointed to the cliché “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”.

“I personally grew up going to warm beach destinations to escape the New York winter every February,” Nastro said. “I wholeheartedly believe that the desire for a warmer weather destination during the month of February versus a cold weather trip is not just a preference but is now a personality trait inherited from my family travels as a child.”

She believes the same pattern is evident in the families attracted to “the magic of Disney” with Disney theme parks vacations over multiple generations. Our early memories can inform what we find meaningful and rewarding as we grow up.

“My family chooses the mountains over the beach always, because it’s where I grew up vacationing – and if you ask me, it’s just better,” Petitt said. “Those experiences are also what I’m excited to share with my kids, building on those memories. If we never visit a beach as a family, that would be OK by me.”

Family travel habits strongly influence people’s choices – but is that a good thing?

“Any travel is beneficial in my opinion,” Nastro said. “And in theory, inheritourism can create generational travel because people are inclined to continue the tradition of travel to a certain place, hotel, etc. The only downside may be that this perpetuates a blinder affect where people don’t tend to branch away from what they know, and thus never really explore beyond their comfort zone.”

She added that inheritourism might lead people to miss out on good deals if they can’t look beyond the specific brands or locations they’ve “inherited”.

“Travellers may avoid less popular destinations or more immersive experiences because they feel less predictable or convenient,” Susag said. “That said, awareness is growing, and many people are starting to challenge those habits once they realise there are other ways to travel that still feel safe and rewarding.”

Overall, she sees a mix of downsides and benefits to the influence of inheritourism today.

“On the positive side, inheritourism makes travel more accessible and lowers the barrier to entry for a lot of people,” Susag said. “It also encourages multigenerational travel and shared experiences, which can be incredibly meaningful.”

Inheritourism can serve as “a foundation, rather than a fixed path,” she emphasised. Travellers can carry forward meaningful traditions but also cultivate their own.

“People tend to start by recreating the trips and habits they grew up with, then adapt them as their confidence grows and their priorities shift,” Susag said. “Whether that means exploring less traditional destinations, traveling more independently or becoming more intentional about how they spend on travel, many travellers eventually build on what they inherited rather than abandoning it altogether.”

As in other areas of life, parents tend to set the norms and serve as trusted sources for young adults as they make decisions.

“In a world of digital overwhelm and an abundance of choice, travellers are looking to their inner circle to inform their travel decisions,” Petitt said.

“When seeking an experience beyond what is familiar, inherited preferences and trusted travel habits serve as a starting point for discovering something new. The key is balance – while inheritourism offers comfort and confidence, the greatest benefit comes when those familiar influences open the door to exploration, rather than limit it.”

Sick Of Waiting For A Wedding, Single People Are ‘Solo Honeymooning’

Posted on 06/02/2026 by Boris Clair

I’m going to be honest: I find travelling with other people pretty draining.

There’s the compromise. There’s constantly being “on”. There’s the horrifying prospect of someone you love seeing you at your post-airport worst, and the nightmarish possibility of being expected to talk on a plane.

So I’ll admit I’m sympathetic with TikTok’s “solo honeymoon” trend, which cuts arguments, different itineraries, and “active vs resting” holiday discrepancies completely out of the question.

Instead, “solo honeymooners” – often single people who are sick of waiting ’til they find a spouse to enjoy their dream honeymoon – are taking matters into their own hands.

Here, experts from TrustedHousesitters shared how to achieve the perfect one.

What is a “solo honeymoon”?

It’s basically booking a holiday by yourself, but the term seems to have helped some TikTokers to navigate the feelings and motives behind solo travel.

In one video, an app user said she’s calling her trip to Bali a solo honeymoon because “while I’m not married to a human being, I am kind of married to my work”.

She decided to give herself a break after closing an important business project.

Yet another person said they were “travelling to a honeymoon destination as a very single person” because “you don’t have to wait until you’re in a relationship to go somewhere”.

He added, “I never thought I’d be here single, but here I am”.

“Let’s normalise single people taking themselves on a honeymoon,” a separate video stated.

Commenters often said they wish they’d felt OK doing something like that sooner. “I should’ve done this after I finished my master’s degree,” an app user wrote: “You have no idea how you have encouraged me to do let go of the fear and do this,” another stated.

And in response to a TikToker’s video about taking a safari trip for her “solo honeymoon,” a commenter wrote, “This was my honeymoon idea, and now I’m like F it I need to go.”

How can I plan a “solo honeymoon”?

Trusted Housesitter advised people seeking a “solo honeymoon” to consider the following:

Checking flight times: “For those who love sitting back for a long time with a book, make the most of the solo flying time and travel long haul, but if you’re a little more on the nervous side, choose a shorter, familiar route to start your me-moon stress-free.”
Checking the area’s safety: “Make sure to research ahead and make sure where you head to has good contact points.”
Planning activities in advance: “Many activities are designed for couples or groups. So make sure you won’t face extra costs, and don’t be deterred if something is marketed primarily to pairs or groups; you can still participate and enjoy the experience.”
Not worrying about others’ expectations: “Plan activities that support your own well-being. Whether it’s spa treatments, meditation sessions, hiking, or simply time to read and reflect, tailor your itinerary around what makes you feel recharged and happy.”
Choosing accommodation carefully: “Think about the type of place you want to stay and whether it will enhance your self-care.”

This Underrated Italian City Is A Dream Destination For Cheese Lovers

Posted on 24/01/2026 by Boris Clair

With a last name like Bologna, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised that I am one of many Italian Americans who love travelling to “Il Bel Paese”. Italy is by far my most-visited destination outside the United States, and I’ve been fortunate to spend time in eight of the country’s 20 regions.

Although delicious foods are available in abundance across Italy, I recently explored an area that should probably be high up on cheese lovers’ travel bucket lists: Parma.

As you might’ve deduced, Parma – along with its neighbour Reggio Emilia – is the namesake of the beloved hard cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano.

The so-called “king of cheeses” can, in fact, only be legally produced under that name in those two provinces, plus Modena, Mantova and Bologna.

The Parmigiano Reggiano moment

It’s no secret that Parmigiano Reggiano is having a moment, finding its way into headlines (and bellies) around the world. This past November, news broke that United Talent Agency had signed the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium to help place the cheese in movies and shows and raise awareness about these official products.

That came just two months after the governing body for the Italian cheese announced a strategic partnership with the New York Jets football team – an initiative that included stadium concession offerings, video segments and more.

Around the 2024 Paris Olympics, Parmigiano Reggiano also made waves as fans of Italian gymnast Giorgia Villa discovered her previous sponsorship deal with the consortium – complete with amazing photos of the athlete posing with big wheels of cheese. (Whether we’ll be seeing more cheese-y sponsorships at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics remains to be seen, but given the host location and the consortium’s PR push, the synergy feels almost inevitable.)

My visit to Parma included a stop at Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a family-owned dairy that offers Parmigiano Reggiano tastings and tours to educate visitors about the production process behind this highly regulated cheese.

With protein’s dominance in our culture, the cheese is getting extra attention for its naturally high protein content. Italian scientists have published studies highlighting the health benefits of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano.

And then there are the seemingly endless social media videos of mouthwatering pasta prepared in hollowed-out wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano tableside at restaurants and in home kitchens. The Italian brainrot trend naturally featured a “Parmigiano” character as well.

I was pumped to visit the home of the king of cheeses in Parma, a lovely province and city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region.

Despite its world-famous food exports, Parma still flies under the radar compared to flashier Italian destinations that dominate most itineraries, like Florence, Rome and Venice. And as it turns out, there’s plenty to do there beyond stuffing your face with dairy goodness.

What to eat in Parma

Reaching Parma is fairly easy. You can drive from Milan in less than two hours or take the train from many destinations around Italy, including Milan, Bologna, Florence, Venice and more. The train station was a breezy stroll to the centre of the action and the whole city felt very walkable.

As the first Italian destination to earn UNESCO’s “City of Gastronomy” title, Parma is unsurprisingly filled with excellent eateries. I had great multi-course meals at Cortex and Croce di Malta, wine and snacks at Tra L’uss e L’asa and Tabarro, and sandwiches at Pepen and Bel Grano Focaccia.

Other restaurants recommended by locals in town included Osteria del 36, Ombre Rosse, Ristorante Cocchi, Trattoria Corrieri and Trattoria del Tribunale.

Cured meat and torta fritta are local staples.

In the broader province of Parma, I dined at Trattoria Antichi Sapori, Al Vedel and Trattoria Ai Due Platani. But the most exciting stop was Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a family-owned dairy that offers Parmigiano Reggiano tastings and tours to educate visitors about the production process behind this highly regulated cheese.

Indeed, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano can only be made using three ingredients: raw cow’s milk, salt and rennet. Each wheel is aged for a minimum of 12 months, with most varieties on the market aged between 24 and 36 months.

Beyond the cheese, Parma’s rich food culture also centres on the iconic Prosciutto di Parma and highly-prized Culatello di Zibello, aka the “king of salumi” – a rare cured meat that’s aged in a pig’s bladder. Cold cuts in the province are often served with torta fritta, a puffy fried dough.

I had the chance to try Culatello di Zibello and “Duchess of Parma” cake.

Local restaurants tend to offer tortelli d’erbetta (pasta stuffed with cheese and greens), anolini in brodo (beef-filled pasta in broth) and a minced horse meat delicacy known as caval pist.

Other highlights of a Parma trip

Although my Parma visit understandably centred around food, I also took some time to explore the history of the city and province in between meals.

The Palazzo della Pilotta complex houses multiple interesting museums and sites, including the National Gallery of Parma, the National Archaeological Museum and the Bodoni Museum. The Palatina Library is particularly stunning, as is the wooden Farnese Theater, one of the largest baroque theatres in Europe.

Beyond food, visitors to Parma can check out sites like the Palatina Library and Parma Cathedral.

Just across the street is the Glauco Lombardi Museum, a unique museum featuring personal belongings and items related to the life and times of Napoleon’s second wife, Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma. I fittingly followed my visit with a mini “Duchess of Parma” cake at a nearby cafe called San Biagio.

The impressive Parma Cathedral and octagonal baptistery next door were also worthwhile stops on my trip. The same goes for the Correggio frescoes in the former Monastery of San Paolo.

And I enjoyed strolling the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi and Parco Ducale in the afternoons, embracing the “slow travel” ethos and getting a real feel for the city.

I ventured to Modena to try some authentic balsamic vinegar and then strolled around Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi back in Parma.

Visitors to Parma can also add stops in other parts of the Emilia-Romagna region or plan a few easy half-day jaunts. I visited a small balsamic vinegar producer, Acetaia di Giorgio, in Modena and had lunch at the Michelin-starred Osteria del Viandante in Reggio Emilia. Many people also add in the Ferrari and Lamborghini museum experiences as well.

At a time when overtourism is straining destinations like Florence, Rome, Venice and the Amalfi Coast, travellers craving a relaxing and authentic Italian experience might want to consider adding Parma to their itineraries.

And if travel budgets are tight, a taste of real Parmigiano Reggiano at home may also help scratch the itch in the meantime.

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