DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know Before Visiting Byukchoji Gardens in Paju, South Korea Posted on June 13, 2026August 3, 2026 It was 6:05 and the ajusshi, an elderly man at the entrance of the Byukchoji Gardens, was friendly but didn’t allow me to enter. We spent too much time cafe hopping– the botanical garden in Paju closes at 7:00 pm, and the last tickets are sold at 6:00 pm. The next day, we arrived early in the morning. As expected, the ajusshi recognized me and reached out to shake my hand. Steven stayed in the car while I packed up my camera gear and umbrella. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES What Makes Chiang Mai, Thailand, a Destination You’ll Fall in Love With? Posted on June 13, 2026August 3, 2026 Chiang Mai is essentially Thailand’s second city – the smaller, more relaxed answer to the madness of Bangkok and the chill space sans the Phuket beaches. It was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, but now is a major draw for backpackers and travelers of all kinds, not to mention older ex-pats, humanitarians and digital warriors. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Thailand Adventures That Will Change the Way You See the World Posted on June 11, 2026August 3, 2026 Thailand gets talked about so much that it’s easy to wonder if it still lives up to the hype, especially if you’ve seen the same beaches, temples, and street food shots a hundred times already—but the real question isn’t what it looks like online, it’s what it actually feels like when you’re there, moving from one place to the next, and whether it still delivers on everything people promise, so before you decide, take a closer look at what keeps pulling people back. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK The Ultimate Ulsan, South Korea Cafe Guide: Coffee by the Sea Posted on June 10, 2026August 3, 2026 Ready for a road trip, I randomly picked Ulsan as our destination. Today, my friends Kyung Sook, Steven, and I set off from Daegu to explore some seaside cafes in this fantastic city. In this Ulsan Cafe Guide, I’ll introduce you to two fantastic dessert spots and a cozy brunch joint. Take advantage of the charm of HEY-MER, Greetvi, and Hidden Blue Brunch Cafes, and soak in the serene ambiance of the Ulsan Sea. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Why it’s Easy to Fall for Medieval Italy: San Gimignano, Matera, and Ravello Posted on June 8, 2026August 6, 2026 Italy is home to countless historic towns and villages that have preserved their medieval charm through the centuries. This blog invites readers to step back in time and explore Italy’s lesser-known historic havens. From the fortified walls of San Gimignano to the ancient pathways of Matera, we’ll guide you through destinations where history is alive and well-preserved. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for Visiting Muscatine, Iowa Posted on June 1, 2026August 4, 2026 What do a historic mill, a butterfly garden, and a splash pad have in common? They’re all part of the unique charm that makes Muscatine stand out along the Mississippi River. We’re heading out for another road trip. From sipping wine at a local vineyard to posing with the world’s largest watermelon, you’ll find some of the best attractions in Muscatine, which are quirky and fun. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Dubuque: 48 Hours of Fun in Iowa’s First City Posted on May 30, 2026August 4, 2026 Dubuque, Iowa, is the perfect weekend escape, blending history with modern flair. Established in 1833, it predates Iowa’s statehood by 13 years. Picture riverboats cruising the Mississippi River against stunning limestone bluffs. You won’t want to miss it! Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Midwest Travel: the Ultimate Weekend Guide to Minneapolis Posted on May 29, 2026August 4, 2026 Minneapolis, Minnesota, mixes Scandinavian heritage with diverse cultures, earning the nickname “Mini Apple.” Enjoy its blend of arts, nature, and city life, from the Prince Museum to Minnehaha Falls, for a memorable Minneapolis Weekend Getaway. Read more