The Merrill is a polished riverfront hotel in Muscatine, Iowa that blends modern design, rooftop Mississippi views, and walkable small-town charm into one surprisingly relaxing Midwest getaway. Using Marriott Bonvoy points made the stay even better, but the real surprise came from how connected the hotel feels to Muscatine’s history, riverfront, and downtown atmosphere.
FOOD AND DRINK
Read more
Best Cafes in St. Louis for Great Coffee and Beautiful Decor
Regardless of the amount of time you have, sitting down with your laptop, inhaling the aroma of freshly roasted beans, and sipping on a piping hot latte or an ice-cold Americano has become a cherished pastime for many of us. If you find yourself in this category or you’re simply passing through the area, consider exploring some of the coffee in St. Louis.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
Read more
Madison, Wisconsin in 24 Hours: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary
Madison, Wisconsin, offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a standout destination. Interestingly, Madison is one of only two major cities in the United States built on an isthmus, between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. This narrow strip of land houses the downtown area, including the Wisconsin State Capitol, providing the city with waterfront views and various recreational opportunities. Here are seven things to do in Madison during a midweek getaway for two.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
Read more
27 Ways to Explore Cleveland, Ohio Next Weekend (Midwest Travel Ideas You’ll Love)
We are heading back to Cleveland for the second time soon! At first glance, Cleveland might not scream “must-see destination,” but this city will definitely surprise you. With tier-one professional sports teams in football, basketball, and baseball, Cleveland has more to offer than you might think. Cleveland is packed with…
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
Read more
Exploring Beloit on Foot: A Simple Downtown Walking Tour
Beloit surprised us in the best way. What started as a quick Midwest weekend turned into long walks downtown, good food, quiet mornings by the river, and the kind of small moments that make a trip feel memorable. If you like walkable towns with character and an easy pace, Beloit makes a genuinely enjoyable weekend getaway.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
Read more
What You Need to Know About Visiting Bodrum for a Day on the Turkish Riviera
We walked in and out of little shops along the long footpath near the water until we reached the inner part of the town. Glad to be shaded from the sun by a large undulated tarp of living plants above our heads. We found a little cafe and decided to have a snack which was delicious. The boys got henna tattoos and I bought a few pieces of jewelry. I bought a pendant with the Turkish eye to ward off against the evil eye.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
Read more
Midwest Travel: the Ultimate Weekend Guide for Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids might not be the first city on your Midwest travel list, but it’s one worth exploring if you’re looking for a blend of outdoor adventures and local charm. Cedar Rapids surprises with its mix of culture, art, and nature, giving you a relaxing yet exciting 24-hour getaway
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD
Read more
Leaving America: 6 Real Reasons to Move Abroad
Leaving America isn’t about rejection—it’s about choosing a different lifestyle. This post explores how living abroad can offer balance, affordability, and freedom from constant stress. It’s about building a life of your choosing—one rooted in peace, purpose, and the courage to start fresh somewhere new.