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Kelsey Glennon - Travel + Leisure

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, August 26th 2025 at 18:06 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Kelsey Glennon: From Backpacker to Travel + Leisure’s Go‑To Cultural Curator

In the world of travel journalism, there are a handful of writers whose voices echo across continents. Among them, Kelsey Glennon has carved out a niche that blends immersive storytelling, a fierce commitment to responsible tourism, and an unquenchable curiosity for the hidden corners of the world. A recent feature in Travel + Leisure dives into the mind of this prolific writer, offering readers an intimate look at what fuels her adventures, her signature style, and the projects that keep her on the road (and in front of a camera) year after year.

A Beginnings Story: From New York Student to Global Explorer

The article opens with a snapshot of Glennon’s early days. Growing up in New York City, she was a self‑proclaimed “foodie” and a voracious reader of travel literature. Her first big trip—an impromptu backpacking expedition across Southeast Asia—changed her trajectory. “I realised that the world is a library and every town has a story,” she says. That realization became the bedrock of her career.

After earning a journalism degree from the University of Miami, Glennon took a job at a small local paper, covering regional events. It wasn’t long before she began submitting freelance pieces to travel magazines, with her first piece for Travel + Leisure earning a feature spot on their website. Since then, she’s written for National Geographic Traveler, Lonely Planet, and even contributed a series on sustainable tourism for The Guardian.

The “Immersive” Formula: Where She Gets Her Stories

Glennon’s distinctive voice is rooted in a simple yet powerful formula: immerse, observe, and document. The article quotes her explaining that “you can’t write about a place unless you’re willing to put yourself into it.” She often spends weeks in a single locale, living with local hosts, learning their customs, and participating in everyday routines before even picking up a pen.

A standout example in the feature is her three‑month stay in Oaxaca, Mexico. While most visitors rush through the town’s famed markets, Glennon lived with a family that still practices traditional textile weaving. She spent evenings in the workshop, learning to thread a loom—an experience she described as “the closest thing I’ve found to living history.” Her feature on Oaxaca was praised for its depth, bringing readers an intimate view of the region’s culinary and cultural heritage that other travel writers only skim.

The article notes that Glennon’s approach has earned her a reputation for authenticity, especially in a market where “staged Instagram posts” can feel contrived. She frequently collaborates with local photographers and artisans, giving credit where it’s due and ensuring that the economic benefits of her coverage trickle back to the communities she visits.

A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

A recurring theme in the Travel + Leisure article is Glennon’s advocacy for responsible travel. She is a vocal supporter of the “Leave No Trace” principle and often highlights sustainable accommodations—boutique hotels that use renewable energy, homestays that promote local craftsmanship, and community‑run tours that empower residents.

Her recent piece on a solar‑powered eco‑lodge in the Galápagos Islands was singled out by the article as an example of how writers can champion climate‑conscious travel. “When I talk about staying at a place that powers itself on clean energy, I’m not just writing a review; I’m encouraging readers to consider the environmental impact of their choices,” she says.

The feature also points to Glennon’s ongoing partnership with the nonprofit organization “Travel for Change.” Through this collaboration, she has contributed to several educational projects aimed at preserving indigenous cultures and protecting vulnerable ecosystems.

The Digital‑Age Storyteller

While Glennon’s print portfolio is impressive, the article highlights that her influence extends far beyond traditional media. She maintains an active Instagram account, where she posts a blend of candid travel snapshots and “behind‑the‑scenes” moments. The article includes a link to her Instagram, which shows a feed rich in color, emotion, and a recurring theme: people.

Her “Cultural Curator” series—currently a TikTok feature—provides 60‑second bursts of cultural trivia, local recipes, and quick interviews with artisans. The Travel + Leisure piece points readers to that series for a quick dive into the stories she’s collecting on the ground.

Upcoming Projects: The “Global Footprints” Documentary

Glennon is not content with simply writing stories; she is also expanding into visual media. The article reveals that she’s working on a short‑form documentary series titled Global Footprints, which will air on the Travel + Leisure YouTube channel later this year. The series aims to pair her travel stories with high‑definition footage shot by local cinematographers.

“The goal is to give viewers a visceral sense of place,” she explains. “I want people to feel the texture of a market stall, the sound of a festival, and the silence of a remote mountain. It’s travel for the senses.” The article quotes her saying that the first episode will feature the “mystical city of Marrakech,” exploring its souks, the ancient medina, and the stories of the women who run small cafés.

Reflections and Advice

At the heart of the article is a set of practical take‑aways Glennon offers to aspiring travel writers. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships, learning a foreign language (she cites Spanish and a few phrases in Amharic), and keeping a dedicated journal. “Your notebook is your safety net,” she says. “When the next trip comes around, you’ll remember details that even your mind might forget.”

She also advises on navigating the gig economy: “Build a portfolio that showcases your versatility. Write features, take photos, record podcasts—be the kind of content creator that editors can use in multiple formats.” This mindset has allowed her to stay in demand, even as the travel industry fluctuates.

A Global Lens, A Local Heart

In conclusion, the Travel + Leisure article paints a portrait of Kelsey Glennon as more than just a travel writer. She is a cultural bridge, a sustainability advocate, and a storyteller who believes in the power of shared human experience. Her work demonstrates that travel can be both deeply personal and profoundly universal.

For readers who want to experience her stories firsthand, the article provides links to her recent Travel + Leisure features, her Instagram profile, and the upcoming Global Footprints series. Whether you’re planning your next trip, dreaming of one, or simply curious about the world, Kelsey Glennon’s voice offers a compelling guide into the heart of places often overlooked.