SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD Leaving America: Living Abroad When You Don’t Know the Language Posted on October 23, 2025October 11, 2026 Living abroad without knowing the language isn’t easy, but it’s possible—and often rewarding. With patience, curiosity, and technology, you can navigate daily life, connect with locals, and grow through small wins. It’s not about fluency—it’s about finding confidence, humor, and humanity in every new interaction. Read more
HOTELS Resting in Bangkok: Your Best Options in Suvarnabhumi Airport Posted on October 20, 2025August 16, 2026 Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport makes layovers easier with new ways to rest inside the terminal. From quiet lounges and short-stay transit hotels to capsule pods like Avagard, travelers can recharge without leaving the airport. This guide covers the best sleep options, where to find them, and practical tips for getting real rest before your next flight. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Discovering Galena: The Illinois River Town That Once Rivaled Chicago Posted on October 19, 2025August 13, 2026 Explore Galena, Illinois—a historic river town once larger than Chicago. Climb its hillside steps, stroll streets marked with bronze plaques, and visit sites tied to Lincoln and Grant. From trolley tours to panoramic river views, Galena blends beauty, history, and endurance in a way few towns still can. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES When Airports Say “No” to Government Messaging Posted on October 15, 2025August 30, 2026 Airports are my happy place. And yes, travel has always been political. Every passport line, security check, and boarding group reflects systems of privilege and control. Who moves freely, who gets stopped, and what stories are told—it’s all power. So when DHS released a video of Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the shutdown, it didn’t surprise me. It’s just another reminder that politics doesn’t wait at the gate—it boards with us, finds its seat, and flies right alongside. Read more
TRAVEL MONEY & PLANNING The Amex Platinum 2025 Refresh: Is It Still Worth It? Posted on October 9, 2025December 21, 2025 In 2025, our Amex Platinum fee rose to $895, but the expanded perks now claim more than $3,500 in value. We use the card for daily purchases instead of our debit card, and we hope to take advantage of all the benefits. Many readers may feel the same—wondering if the higher fee is worth it. The truth is, it depends on how much you use what’s offered. If you travel often, dine out, or enjoy the lifestyle perks, the Platinum can deliver far more than it costs. If not, it risks becoming an expensive card that sits in your wallet. Read more
TRAVEL MONEY & PLANNING Thailand is Planning to Give Away Thousands of Free Domestic Flights Posted on October 6, 2025August 30, 2026 Thailand plans to launch the Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights” campaign, offering 200,000 free flights to international travelers. The program, awaiting approval, aims to ease access to regions beyond Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. If approved, it will run during the shoulder season, boosting tourism recovery and encouraging visitors to explore less-visited parts of the country. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Oktoberfest 2025: What to do During the Weekend in the Amana Colonies Posted on October 5, 2025December 26, 2025 Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies brings a taste of Germany to Iowa each fall. Between the food, live music, and laughter, it’s easy to forget you’re only an hour and a half from home. It’s not Munich, but it’s warm, welcoming, and worth the drive every single year. Here’s why. Read more
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD Life Abroad: Everyday Victories That Make Expat Life Easier Posted on October 5, 2025February 19, 2026 Living abroad isn’t just about major milestones. It’s also about the quieter victories that make you feel at home—a barista remembering your order, your first local friend, or finally navigating public transportation without a mistake. These small moments don’t make headlines, but together they build the rhythm and belonging of real life abroad. Read more