DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know About Lavender Crest Wineryl: A Perfect Midwest Getaway Posted on December 17, 2023November 16, 2025 Lavender Crest Winery in Colona, Illinois, is a good spot to savor lunch and a glass of wine. However, following my visit, I’m left pondering the winery’s legitimacy. It’s not that I didn’t enjoy the wine flight I ordered—it was pretty good. And we discovered a bottle that suited both our palates. The problem occurred when our server seemed less versed in the wines and couldn’t answer any of our questions. She took our order, handed it to the bartender, and left us to our own devices. Having had such a delightful time at Old Oaks Winery in Milan last week, we decided to explore another local winery. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Best Cafes Near the End of Daegu’s Red Line Metro Posted on December 12, 2023November 15, 2025 Have you ever taken the metro to the end of the red line here in Daegu? Me neither, but I was curious. The red line is one of three metro lines in Daegu and the closest line near my house. So today, we’re going to do something a little different. We’re going to go cafe hopping using the metro—taking it to the end of the red line in both directions—Seolhwa/Myeonggok today and Ansim tomorrow—to see if we can find a couple of pretty cafes to visit without getting in the car. This journey along the red line promises not only charming cafes but also a unique exploration of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. As we embark on this adventure, let’s uncover Daegu’s hidden gems and vibrant spots, all conveniently accessible via the red line. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Scenic Route Bakery: The Ultimate Brunch Cafe in Des Moines Posted on November 25, 2023May 9, 2026 Discovering Des Moines: A Road Trip Adventure We made an unexpected yet delightful pitstop in Des Moines during our road trip from Kansas to Illinois. Moreover, it’s a city we had never explored before. However, little did we know that this charming city would hold a culinary gem that would… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Winter Swan Cafe: Your New Coffee Hotspot in Rochester Posted on November 19, 2023November 15, 2025 The first cafe I enjoyed visiting in Rochester was located within a stunning historic building in the heart of East Rochester. This is where I stumbled upon the Winter Swan Cafe, a delightful coffee shop that seamlessly blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam and Thailand. Tucked within the recently expanded… Read more
FOOD AND DRINK The Best Guide to Cafes in Gachang South Korea Posted on November 12, 2023July 24, 2026 Cafe hopping in Gachang, just outside Daegu, amid the stunning countryside, is a delightful experience. Most of these cafes are family-owned, offering excellent coffee and a tempting array of brunch options that will satisfy your taste buds. As we explored this serene countryside, we encountered several hidden gems, each with unique charm. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Homi Hosi Cafe: The Most Beautiful Hanok Cafe in Gyeongsan Posted on November 11, 2023December 24, 2025 Gyeongsan is one of my favorite places to go to cafe hop. And Homi Hosi Cafe is a good one to check out on your next caffeine run. Step inside the massive wooden lift and slide door at Homi Hosi (also spelled homihosi) Cafe. In this Daegu suburb, you’ll immediately… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Mamma Mia: The Ultimate Themed Cafe in Seoul Posted on November 9, 2023December 24, 2025 Italian Delights in the Apgujeong District Mamma Mia Cafe is a themed cafe in the Apgujeong neighborhood of Seoul, known for its eclectic charm. This cafe has fully embraced the enchanting theme inspired by the famous movie of the same name, and its inception traces back to an exhibition of… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Why the Spot Fabulous Cafe in Seoul is So Popular Posted on November 7, 2023July 24, 2026 The Spot Fabulous Cafe in Myeongdong blends modern design with traditional elements. Its open, stylish space attracts locals and tourists alike. Set in Seoul’s busy shopping district, the cafe offers a relaxing escape and reflects the city’s vibrant energy and evolving culture. It’s both trendy and welcoming. Read more