Meet the founders of your new go-to travel platform.
You probably know your favourite city like the back of your hand. The London bar where you bought your first pint. LA’s best record store. That Barcelona restaurant with live flamenco music every night. Tattoo parlours in Japan. The biggest local street parties in Kingston Jamaica. We could go on…
The problem is, these places are rarely featured on popular travel platforms – no matter how convincingly they claim to know the “hidden gems” of your next destination. They’re the gritty old pubs that’ve refused to change over the years, or the underground music nights that prioritise their party people over profits. Places you’d probably walk straight past, en route to the most Instagrammable tourist hotspot Google can serve in six seconds.
That was, until Trippin. Founded by Kesang Ball, Sam Blenkinsopp and Yasmin Shahmir, Trippin is the new-gen travel platform promising to link you up with whatever it is you want to find, and facilitate positive cultural change in the process. Now an international community, they enlist cultural tastemakers to curate recommendations on anything from the best ramen in Tokyo, to art galleries or chicken nuggets in London.
In line with the launch of their new website last week, we spoke to Kesang and Sam about connecting cultures worldwide, the future of travel and how you can get involved.
Stay Trippin in Lagos with Adebayo Oke-Lawal and NYC with OSHUN
How did Trippin get going? We were frustrated by the lack of authentic travel content on offer, so we created a private Facebook group and invited our friends to trade trusted travel tips amongst ourselves. Word spread fast, and today this group has now become a community of travellers that see travel as a lifestyle and a celebration of global culture.
For those who don’t know, what’s Trippin all about? Trippin is all about providing a refreshing and authentic voice for today’s traveller. Those that strive for authenticity and diversity in their quest to avoid being a tourist. The ones that are interested in getting beneath the surface of a destination and understanding the creative pillars that make it unique.
The platform feels like it was born out of frustration. Do you feel like it fills an important gap in the travel sector? We were frustrated by the lack of authentic travel content out there – there really wasn’t anything speaking to us in the travel space. There’s nothing more frustrating than being in a city and being unable to tap into the good shit. We didn’t trust Tripadvisor and felt that other platforms didn’t offer a way to dive beneath the surface tap into the raw culture of a city. Travel takes you out of your comfort zone and into new environments, inviting you to view the world through a more inclusive lens. It’s a transformative experience similar to a psychedelic trip – hence our name – and it’s about time someone represented that.
Grace Neutral selects her top tattoo spots and Siobhan Bell takes London
Why is it important to you to create a community? We’re powered by our community. They’re the reason we exist and decided to build Trippin. Community on every level is so important. Through our guides and featured content, our criteria is always centred around real people, real moments and raw experiences. We’ve always wanted to operate with a level of trust that we feel has been missing from other platforms.
What do you look for when choosing contributors? We collaborate with creatives at the emergent edge of music, art, fashion, and culture around the world to share and exchange knowledge about the places that inform who they are and what they do.
What can we find on your new website? It’s the only place to go if you want to have the best time the moment you land.
Explore London with Poppy Ajudha and Simran Randhawa
Where have you travelled with Trippin lately? Sam: I recently visited Marrakech to create content with the people shaping the creative scene out there. We linked up musicians, designers and hoteliers to discuss their roles in driving a new movement in a country that’s deep-rooted in tradition. One of the artists we met was Issam, a rapper who draws inspiration from a multitude of cultures across the globe and really embodies the type of cultural exchange that we’re all about at Trippin. You can read the whole feature on Issam here.
Kesang: We took our whole team out to Zihua ,where we did an off-site for 2 months. A close friend of ours runs an incredible community hub out there called Loot. I remember the first morning so clearly. I woke up early around 6am, the moon had stayed out, the pink blossom light of dawn illuminating all the majestic plants. The silence takes a while to blend into your peripheral. Abnormally large crickets, birds, a gentle breeze, the patter of the feet of many insects slowly become the norm and sink into the background – a marked contrast to the sounds of London. I’ve travelled around the world, but something is different about Zihua, it’s more magical. It’s a place where you know change is inmenment and that really excited me. Check out the short film we shot out there, which you can watch here.
What’s next for Trippin world? We’re young and still learning, but we’re really trying to tackle the social sustainable issues that travel creates. With tourism being one of the fastest growing industries, it’s fundamental that we use it as a force of good. Travelling sustainably asks us to broaden our mental and cultural horizons, whilst doing as little damage to the natural and social landscape as possible.
If you’d like to be part of the Trippin fam, you can join the community here.
RV Life in the Digital Age: How Every Kind of Traveler Stays Connected with TravlFi
Life on the road has never looked better—or been more connected. Whether you’re running a business from a campsite, homeschooling from a national park, or just trying to stream your favorite show from the mountains, reliable RV internet is essential. That’s where TravlFi comes in.
Designed for RVers and travelers, TravlFi makes mobile Wi-Fi simple, seamless, and stress-free. With contract-free data plans, access to multiple nationwide networks, and easy setup, TravlFi helps you stay online during your adventures.
Nationwide Coverage Without Commitment
TravlFi was built specifically for travelers who don’t want to be tied down to one carrier, one contract, or one location. Unlike traditional providers, TravlFi devices connect to multiple nationwide networks, automatically finding the strongest signal available, even in places your cell phone might struggle.
With contract-free plans and a flexible, traveler-first approach, TravlFi makes it easy to stay connected on your terms. No roaming charges, no cancellation fees—just reliable coverage when and where you need it most.
For Digital Nomads: Work from Anywhere—Literally
Being a digital nomad means your office might be a forest, a beach, or the passenger seat of your RV. TravlFi’s JourneyGo Hotspot gives remote workers the freedom to stay connected with:
Strong, secure 4G LTE internet that covers 99% of the U.S.
Automatic network switching for the best available signal
Fast upload/download speeds ideal for video calls, cloud files, and remote desktop apps
With TravlFi, you can ditch spotty campground Wi-Fi and confidently hit “Join Meeting” from the edge of a canyon—or your cozy dinette.
For RVing Retirees: Stay Connected, Stay in Control
For retirees embracing the full-time RV lifestyle, staying in touch with loved ones—and managing day-to-day tasks—requires a strong digital connection. TravlFi’s JourneyXTR Router makes it easy to:
Stream your favorite shows or catch up on news from anywhere
Bank, budget, and manage healthcare tools securely on the road
Video chat with grandkids without the frustrating lag
Whether you’re chasing 70-degree weather or crossing off your bucket list destinations, TravlFi lets you enjoy the journey without losing touch with the people and tools that matter most.
For Full-Time Families: Powering School, Streaming, and Sanity
Full-time families on the road juggle everything from Zoom classrooms to streaming entertainment, all while bouncing from park to park. TravlFi’s XTR Pro 5G Router keeps your RV household connected with:
5G Wi-Fi support for up to 128 devices
Enough bandwidth to stream, game, upload, and homeschool simultaneously
A mobile setup that works for the whole family with 4G/LTE backup
Forget campground internet that crashes at dinner. With high-speed internet for RV families, everyone stays happy, entertained, and on track.
For Weekend Warriors: Coverage When You Want It
You don’t need to be a full-time traveler to benefit from solid RV Wi-Fi. TravlFi is perfect for part-timers who want on demand connectivity without a long-term contract. You’ll get:
A device that’s ready to go as soon as you power it on
Monthly data plans that flex with your trip schedule
Private, secure Wi-Fi wherever your weekend takes you
Just pack it, power it, and connect. No installations, no obligations—just strong internet when you need it.
FAQs
Can I use TravlFi while my RV is in motion?
Yes, TravlFi connects to most cellular towers. As you move to different locations TravlFi will automatically switch to the best available tower in that area.
Do I need internet for TravlFi to work?
No, TravlFi provides the internet! Thanks to eSIM technology, TravlFi automatically connects the device to the strongest available signal from most cellular towers in its area.
Can I stop or pause my service?
You may pause or cancel your subscription with TravlFi at any time and you won’t pay a reactivation fee when you’re ready to turn your service back on.
How does monthly billing work?
TravlFi’s pay as you go data plan costs are straightforward with a one-time activation fee. Monthly payments are made every month, from the date of your initial activation. Each monthly payment covers your next month of service. You may cancel your TravlFi subscription at any time and won’t pay a reactivation fee when you’re ready to turn your service back on.
Does TravlFi work in Canada and Mexico?
Yes, TravlFi offers Canada & Mexico Data Plans to ensure your connectivity needs are met even beyond borders.
Freedom on the Road Meets Freedom to Connect
Whether you’re boondocking in the desert, driving along the coast, or parked lakeside soaking in the sun, TravlFi is your travel-tested connection to the digital world. Say goodbye to laggy campground Wi-Fi and hello to the freedom of staying connected—on your terms.
Back in 1921, four ambitious friends—Emanuel “Manny” Rosenfeld, Maurice “Moe” Strauss, Moe Radavitz, and W. Graham “Jack” Jackson—each threw $200 into the pot and cranked open the doors of what would become an American automotive legend: the original Pep Boys store.
Since opening that first location in Philadelphia over 100 years ago, Pep Boys has served communities across the United States. Today at our 800+ locations, our mission remains the same as it was back then: to make quality car care simple, convenient, and accessible to everyone. Make an appointment at your local shop today.
Fueled by Friendship: How Three Guys Changed Car Care Forever
When Pep Boys opened its doors, the golden age of cars was getting underway… and with it, the rise of the great American adventure. The three friends saw an opportunity to help a wave of new vehicle owners care for their cars and trucks. They likely couldn’t have imagined what was to come.
What started as a single store quickly expanded when the shops added auto service bays to help a fast-growing number of car owners care for their vehicles. That was the missing piece of the puzzle, and it helped to fuel America’s love affair with the open road.
A century later, Pep Boys is still rolling strong, proving that a little ingenuity, a lot of elbow grease, and a drive to always do right by your customer can take you a long way.
The Trio That Never Took a Backseat
Many people know Pep Boys because of the iconic, hand-drawn faces that have represented the founders—and cemented their friendship forever—since 1925.
As decades rolled by, these caricatures have changed a bit…but don’t we all? Manny ditched the cigar (modern times call for modern icons), but the heart of the trio stayed the same. Manny’s bespectacled knowledge, Moe’s welcoming smile, and Jack’s friendly wink that says “we know cars” still invite vehicle owners in for expert care.
Under their watchful eyes, the Pep Boys team remains committed to keeping you moving. We’d like to think that they’d be proud to see how we continue to do right by our customers, advising them on how to get their vehicle ready for life’s adventures, where that be a quick drive to the neighborhood grocery store for essentials or an epic, coast-to-coast family roadtrip.
6 Essential Car Tips Before Hitting the Road
Speaking of trips, don’t forget to ensure your vehicle is road-ready before you set out on YOUR next adventure. Use this expert advice from Pep Boys ASE-certified technicians to keep you moving smoothly and safely—in any season of the year.
Fresh oil keeps your engine running efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear—especially over long distances. If you’re due (or even close to it), schedule an oil change before your trip. It’s a quick service that delivers long-term peace of mind.
2. Check Your Tires (and Get the Right Ones)
Tires aren’t just about traction—they’re about safety and performance. At Pep Boys, you can choose from trusted tire brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Kumho. Plus, you get expert guidance on what fits your vehicle and your budget.
Want your tires to go the distance? Don’t skip tire maintenance like rotations, balancing, and alignments—we can help with all of it.
3. Test Your Brakes Before You Cruise
Squeaks, squeals, or grinding noises are your brakes’ way of waving a red flag. Even if they sound fine, a quick inspection is smart before clocking serious miles. Our Brake Serviceensures you stop just as confidently as you go.
4. Make Sure Heating & Cooling Systems Are Ready
Whether you’re battling summer heat or chilly mornings, your car HVAC system needs to perform. Weak airflow? Strange smells? Warm air when it should be cool? Bring it in for a checkup—comfort on the road is key.
5. Don’t Leave Your Battery to Chance
A dead battery is a road trip killer. If yours is over 3 years old, consider a replacement. If it’s newer, a free battery test at Pep Boys can tell you if it’s strong enough for the long haul. If not, our Battery Replacement service has you covered.
6. Pack (and Check) an Emergency Kit
Preparedness is more than peace of mind—it’s a must-have. Load up on essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, tire repair tools, non-perishable snacks, and first-aid supplies. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.
Bonus Tip: Want it all checked off in one stop? Pep Boys can help with every item on this list—from tires and batteries to brakes and A/C service. Book your appointment today and hit the road with confidence.
The most unforgettable adventures don’t begin at the destination—they start in the driveway, with a vehicle that’s road-ready and raring to go. Our expert technicians are here to make sure your car is just as prepared as you are. From oil changes and tire checks to brake service and battery replacement, we’ve got everything you need to drive with confidence. So fuel up, buckle in, and let Pep Boys handle the rest.
When it’s time to decide where the road should lead, don’t forget to explore our exclusive Pep Boys-approved Roadtrips—handpicked routes designed to turn your next drive into something truly epic. Adventure is calling—and we’ll help you answer it.
( July 14, 2025, 07:47 GMT | Official Statement) — MLex Summary: Sixty-eight mobile apps have been flagged by Chinese authorities for illegally collecting and using personal data, according to the National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center, a technical unit under the country’s Internet regulator. The list includes apps linked to Guangzhou Automobile Group’s AION Y electric SUV, a software development kit from online game operator Xunlei, bubble tea brand ALittle Tea and China International Travel Service’s Aoyou platform. Authorities said violations included inadequate privacy notices, insufficient disclosure of third-party data-sharing arrangements and failure to provide accessible options to correct or delete user data. Several apps were also found to lack convenient opt-out mechanisms for automated marketing. The tests were conducted as part of a broader campaign led by China’s central authorities to strengthen personal-information protections.
The statement is attached: …
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