After applying to speak at a travel conference, I was rejected. That “no” hit harder than expected. It brought up years of quiet sacrifice, missed chances, and self-doubt. I wanted to be seen, especially by women like me. Instead, I faced the truth—I’ve spent years settling when I wanted more.
PLACES
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What You Need to Know About the Pendry Chicago: A Perfect Rainy Weekend Escape
Pendry Chicago blends Art Deco charm with modern luxury in the historic Carbide and Carbon Building. Located on the Magnificent Mile, it offers elegant rooms, upscale dining, and a striking lobby that draws architecture lovers. It’s a refined stay in the heart of downtown Chicago, perfect for style-conscious travelers.
PLACES
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What You Need to Know: Why Chicago Is the Cultural Center of the Midwest
Chicago’s culture is complex and alive. It’s shaped by working families, bold art, rich history, and political action. Unlike the quieter towns nearby, Chicago pulses with creativity, resistance, and pride. It’s not the story the headlines tell. It’s a city defined by its people—not fear, but fierce love.
PLACES
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What You Need to Know About Wat Ban Pong Pagoda Before You Go
Wat Ban Pong is a quiet hilltop temple near Chiang Mai, known for its 900-step forest climb and peaceful setting. Built over 19 years, the temple offers wide views, simple beauty, and a break from city crowds. A small café at the base makes the visit both reflective and relaxing.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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Canadian Travel to the U.S. Is Down in 2025—Here’s What You Need to Know
Canadian tourism to the U.S. is plummeting—and it’s not just about politics. For me and my family, trips from Alberta’s mountain towns to Toronto’s festivals and Québec’s cobblestone streets shaped years of cross-border memories. Now, rising tensions threaten that connection. This post explores what we lose when trust disappears.
PLACES
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Manhattan in a Weekend: Old Favorites, New Stops, and One Tough Puzzle
Each visit to Manhattan, Kansas, brings something new. My son Malik is a senior at Kansas State University, so we’ve spent many weekends here. We’ve done the campus tours, the football games, and even axe-throwing. But this time, we slowed down. We leaned into the quieter side of the “Little…
LIFESTYLE
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How Black Couples Travel Challenges Stereotypes and Strengthens Love
This post celebrates Black couples who travel together, sharing real stories of love, partnership, and adventure. From digital nomads to retired explorers, these seven couples show how traveling together strengthens relationships and challenges norms—proving that Black love belongs everywhere, even in places that never expected to see it.
PLACES
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10 Breathtaking Natural Wonders to Visit in New York State
New York is more than a city—it’s wild, beautiful, and quiet in ways that stay with you. This guide shares 10 natural wonders that shaped my love for the state. From roaring waterfalls to peaceful lakes, each place invites you to slow down, look closer, and feel something real.