TRAVEL MONEY & PLANNING BRICS and Travel Costs: What Americans Should Know Right Now Posted on August 10, 2025August 30, 2026 BRICS is changing global trade, which could affect travel costs, payment methods, and routes. Currency shifts may raise prices for Americans, while new airline connections and upgraded infrastructure could improve travel within BRICS countries. Travelers should watch exchange rates, visas, and local payment systems as these changes unfold. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD The Truth About Getting Rejected as a Speaker: It’s Not Just About One No Posted on August 7, 2025January 18, 2026 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. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES What You Need to Know: Why Chicago Is the Cultural Center of the Midwest Posted on August 3, 2025September 2, 2026 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. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know About Wat Ban Pong Pagoda Before You Go Posted on July 31, 2025August 18, 2026 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. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD Canadian Travel to the U.S. Is Down in 2025—Here’s What You Need to Know Posted on July 30, 2025August 13, 2026 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. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Manhattan in a Weekend: Old Favorites, New Stops, and One Tough Puzzle Posted on July 28, 2025August 20, 2026 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… Read more
BLACK WOMEN WHO TRAVEL How Black Couples Travel Challenges Stereotypes and Strengthens Love Posted on July 27, 2025September 2, 2026 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. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Frankfort to Copper Harbor: The Best Northern Michigan Road Trip Posted on July 21, 2025August 20, 2026 This Northern Michigan road trip looped from Frankfort to Copper Harbor, with stops for hikes, beaches, cafes, and lakeside views. We skipped the rush and leaned into quiet mornings, local food, and open skies. Each stop gave us something different—and reminded us to slow down and take it all in. Read more