Social media inspires travel—but also distorts it. This post explores the power-of-influencers and how curated content shapes where we go, what we expect, and how much we spend. From crowds to debt and cultural strain, we need a more honest conversation about the real impact of picture-perfect travel online.
PLACES
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How to Spend a Awesome Weekend in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Looking for an easy weekend escape from the Quad Cities? Cedar Rapids offers art, history, markets, and museums—all within 90 minutes. Whether you’re strolling through Brucemore or sampling food at NewBo City Market, this Iowa city packs just enough charm and culture to make the drive worth it.
PLACES
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Why Starved Rock Is One of the Best Hikes in Illinois
I’ve hiked a lot of trails, but there’s something about Starved Rock State Park that keeps pulling me back. Just under an hour from my front door, it feels like another world since Rock Island is so flat. The 2,630-acre park in LaSalle County, Illinois, is located along the Illinois…
LIFESTYLE
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Perception vs. Perspective: Travel Stories That Changed How I See the World
A stare too long. A whispered word. A moment I almost walked away. But what happened next shifted everything I thought I knew about traveling as a Black woman. This isn’t just a story—it’s a reminder of what happens when we pause, stay, and see the world with new eyes.
SLOW TRAVEL TIPS
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The Benefits of Slow Travel: A Better Way to Explore the World
In a world where fast-paced travel and short vacations dominate, there’s a growing movement towards a different approach: slow travel. Military families have made this type of travel mainstream. This method isn’t just about ticking off tourist spots or snapping the perfect Instagram shot. It’s about immersing oneself in a culture, living like a local, and truly understanding the nuances of a new place. Here’s a comprehensive look at the benefits of slow travel and why it might be the best way to explore the world.
LIFESTYLE
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Not Just Passing Through: 9 Ways Expats Contribute Abroad
After hearing the phrase “losers back home” in Da Nang, I started thinking about how expats can do better. Living abroad is a privilege—but it comes with responsibility. Here are nine ways expats can give back, stay present, and become part of the communities that welcome us.
PLACES
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Why Beji Ubud Resort Is the Best $50 You’ll Spend in Bali
The Beji Ubud Resort in Bali is a 4 star resort in the heart of Ubud,Indonesia where you can enjoy the dense jungle views while listening to the monkeys coo and caw from the treetops that surround you and the tropical gardens filled with colorful flora.
PLACES
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Why Starved Rock Is One of the Best Hiking Trails in Illinois
Starved Rock State Park offers real trails, not just walks in the woods. Climb to sweeping river views or hike into French Canyon for a waterfall reward. Just an hour from home, it’s the kind of place that makes your legs burn and your heart feel full—all in one afternoon.