Columns

Dear Globetrotter:

Welcome to the 471st issue of your monthly foreign travel magazine.

This is a publication that has always depended upon its subscribers for the articles and letters that fill up most of the pages in each issue. It’s a group-participation project, so much so that our readers are comfortable to make suggestions on how to improve it. 

So when subscribers express opinions about what they find rewarding or, sometimes, displeasing, in a particular issue, not only do we listen, we are encouraged that they care enough about ITN to take the time...

When you've traveled in Europe as long as I have, you experience changes, big and small. And more and more, I've been noticing that traditional local businesses are being pushed out by the playground economy that comes with modern affluence.

It's one thing to see hotels, restaurants and shops come and go in the normal course of business. But I've also seen the slow churning of local traditions and lifestyles as unique family-run enterprises have given way to a rising tide of cookie-cutter chains and synthetic conformity.

In historic city centers, as...

Whether you're a serious athlete or a weekend warrior, those who like to keep their heart pumping while sightseeing have plenty of great options in Europe. From scenic jogs through Stockholm to paddling a boat in Hyde Park to biking through bustling Amsterdam, active travel can be better travel.

Biking not only provides a workout; it's an efficient way to get around. On a well-fitted rental bike, I feel local, efficient, and even smug -- especially during rush hour, when I can get across town faster than by taxi or tram. Europeans are often...