Unfortunately, there are not nearly as many good travel magazines out there as there used to be, at least for those not on a Rolex and Prada budget. Here are travel publications that care more about the joy of discovery than they do about keeping up with the Joneses.
Outpost
Published in Toronto, with a Canadian perspective. Was always great, but is now hands down the best travel magazine in North America for thinking, independent travelers. Insightful and culturally sensitive writing, with a view from the ground, not from the Four Seasons balcony.
Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel
This magazine gets better all the time. It has gone from something mildly useful to being an essential read for the bargain-hunter. In the past year or so they seem to have focused more on independent travel on a budget and less on package tours. They're also not afraid to write about places that aren't filled with huge resorts and spas--a welcome change from the norm. You can subscribe for next to nothing by checking the Web subscription sites, so it's a cheap read for yourself or a relative. An especially good read for those who like to travel in relative comfort, but don't want to be a number.
National Geographic Travel
This high-circulation magazine still slips into "isn't this place luxurious?!" drooling mode now and then, but it at least makes an attempt to keep the focus on travel. Unlike its jewelry-ad-filled competitors, it is not afraid to run stories on places where there are no five-star hotels and it employs a lot of experienced writers and book authors who have been there, done that on every continent. It's sister pub, N.G. Adventure, has gone belly-up unfortunately.
Wanderlust
This UK magazine is a great find if you can get a Europe-bound friend to pick it up or you live near a magazine store that carries imports. Literate travel articles, great travel book reviews, and beautiful photography, but all the while still remembering that most travelers aren't living off $500 a day.
Abroad View Magazine
This unique magazine (founded by the now-editor of Transitions Abroad), is an impressive glossy that comes out twice per year and focuses on real life and experience from the eyes of those who are studying and working abroad. Contributors share their life-changing travel and study abroad stories, document both experiential and cultural research, and voice their views on important global and regionally focused cultural, environmental, political, and social issues and ideas.
Afar
This magazine had the cajones to launch during the worst recession the print magazine industry had ever witnessed, so the fact it's still around is reason enough to celebrate. This is a fine publication with real stories about real travel, not just top-10 lists and consumerism. Covers places the usual glossies won't touch.
International Living
This publishing company is relentless about trying to upsell you and cross-sell you on all their various products, so be prepared for loads of junk mail, but it's still the best resource around for anyone who wants to retire overseas or live abroad for an extended period.
