DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Rock Island’s Sunset Park: A Riverside Spot Locals Love Posted on March 18, 2025December 20, 2025 Sunset Park in Rock Island is more than a park—it’s a place to pause. The river flows steadily, sunsets paint the sky, and time slows down. Whether you come for the view, the company, or a quiet moment alone, this is where you’ll find peace. You might even see me there. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD Banned Books and the Battle Over Free Speech in Waterloo Posted on March 16, 2025May 19, 2026 Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones joined Black authors in Waterloo, Iowa, for a powerful Read-In after local schools canceled African American Read-Ins. Together, they read banned books that celebrate Black life and history. Their message was clear: these stories matter, and we will not allow them to be erased or forgotten. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Plan a Private Island Stay on Koh Munnork Posted on March 14, 2025November 15, 2025 Koh Munnork Private Island is a secluded paradise, home to the island’s only resort. Accessible only by boat, it offers air-conditioned bungalows, pristine beaches, and activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and trekking. With peacocks roaming freely and no crowds in sight, it’s the perfect off-the-grid retreat for true relaxation. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES The Ultimate Guide to Visiting House on the Rock Posted on March 13, 2025December 20, 2025 Step into a surreal world at Wisconsin’s House on the Rock. With a floating Infinity Room, the world’s largest indoor carousel, and endless quirky collections, this one-of-a-kind attraction defies explanation. It’s an unforgettable, slightly bizarre experience you won’t find anywhere else—and well worth the 2.5-hour drive from Rock Island. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Bangkok BTS and MRT Guide for New Expats: What You Need to Know Posted on March 10, 2025April 4, 2026 Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and MRT subway offer a reliable, affordable alternative to traffic-clogged streets. The BTS provides elevated views of the city, while the MRT extends access to key areas. Expats benefit from clean, air-conditioned trains, easy navigation, and cost-effective travel, making daily commuting and city exploration more convenient. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Why the Cafe Culture in Thailand Is So Popular Posted on March 6, 2025December 20, 2025 Cafes in Thailand go beyond coffee—they are immersive spaces blending nature, creativity, and community. Chiang Mai, known for its lush landscapes and artistic culture, offers some of the most stunning cafes. From jungle retreats to bold architectural wonders, each spot tells a unique story, inviting visitors to experience something extraordinary. Read more
BLACK WOMEN WHO TRAVEL The Truth About Black Beauty Products: Are they Killing Us? Posted on March 3, 2025June 10, 2026 If you’re anything like me, you remember the smell of hair grease on Saturday mornings. The way it clung to your fingers, soaked into your pillowcase, and signaled it was time to sit still. You remember the sound of a hot comb heating on the stove, the hiss as it met your hairline. And the sting of a relaxer—one we sat through, teeth clenched, hoping it wouldn’t burn too badly. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Experience Riverside Trails in the Quad Cities Posted on March 1, 2025December 20, 2025 The Quad Cities, located along the mighty Mississippi River, offers many scenic riverside trails perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and casual strollers. These trails wind through lush landscapes, offering stunning river views and a peaceful retreat from city life. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging route or a… Read more