Jack Pearce for Lonely Planet
THREE TRIPS, UNLIMITED ACCESS
We took travelers through Porto, Malta and the Scottish Highlands to see how they tapped into splurge-worthy outings and small sellers, collected credit card points, and juggled a family without juggling a physical wallet securely and seamlessly.
Learn MoreScottish Highlands
Jess, Charlie, and their young children Sonny and Lochy head deep into the Scottish Highlands — think misty lochs, winding roads, and wild landscapes. This adventurous family shows us how to go remote without ever feeling disconnected. For them, less time spent fumbling with payments means more time soaking in the vibes. They take an unforgettable hike to the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye, book spontaneous kayak outings on Loch Leven, and relive the adventures of the day at a remote glamping site – all without physical cards and cash. They’re able to stay in the moment, and focus on the experiences that matter most.
Charlie and Jessica Last walking with their children through tall grass in the Scottish Highlands.
Porto, Portugal
With chic boutiques, stunning architecture, and a million instagrammable moments, Porto is the ultimate girls’ getaway. From riverside strolls to seafood splurges, friends Hunter and Peyton show us how to shop, snack, and see the sights in Porto. Their trip is filled with ceramics classes, tile-lined streets and fado listening rooms – and they need their travel logistics to feel effortless. Whether it’s buying fresh pastries at the Mercado do Bolhão, hopping on a Douro River boat cruise, or checking into a charming guesthouse tucked away in the center of the city, they get access to big-ticket excursions and hidden gems – with just their iPhone and Apple Pay. Here, there’s a huge variety of experiences to explore.
A view of The Porto Cathedral above the Douro River.
Malta
From the grandeur of the Grandmaster’s Palace to the winding streets of Mdina and sweeping views of Dingli Cliffs, history buff Jacklynn brings Malta’s complex past to the present. With nothing but her iPhonee, a healthy supply of SPF, and an insatiable desire to learn all that came before, sheʻs winding her way through ancient cities and cliffside cafes, showing how much a rich, culture-filled adventure in the Land of Honey really costs. She's open for anything, and collects credit card points while using Apple Pay.
Jacklynn walking through a narrow stone street in Malta, surrounded by historic buildings and balconies.