DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES My Jeju Photography Tour: What I Loved and What Surprised Me Posted on July 29, 2026October 29, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters A girls’ photo trip to Jeju Island sounded like a dream. But language barriers, missed expectations, and cultural differences turned it into something more complicated. Still, between the forests, fish dishes, and quiet sunrises, I found growth, grace, and a few surprising lessons behind the lens. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Most Beautiful Cafe in Yeosu, South Korea: Cafe Moi Fin Posted on July 4, 2026August 2, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Cafe Moi Fin impresses. The design complements the oceanfront hill location. The captivating blend of nature and design enchants visitors, evoking a sense of discovery and wonder. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Spend 4 Days on Jeju Island: Beaches, Waterfalls & Love Land Posted on June 26, 2026August 3, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Jeju is a volcanic island, sometimes referred to as the “Hawaii” of Korea. I’m not so sure I’d go that far having visited Hawaii, but it’s a nice break from the mainland. And oh yeah, it’s also the place to go see giant erotic sculptures and a sex-themed amusement park too. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Finally Exploring Tokyo: Our First Big Trip in Asia Posted on May 14, 2026October 21, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Pickup a map to make sure you are buying the correct ticket or you may be blocked from boarding the train. Having access to all three will make travel easier below ground, but you can get around the city using only the metro, as long as you are diligent and plan accordingly. Like traffic above ground, the trains and the walking patterns run reverse to what you are used to. There are signs to help you if you forget. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Sicily Travel Surprises: From Geeps to “American” Pizza With Hotdogs? Posted on September 25, 2025December 20, 2025 By Stacey A. Peters Sicily surprises with quirks you won’t find elsewhere: geeps that can cost you your car, directions marked by fruit vendors and umbrella girls, illegal car parkers, and “American pizza” with hotdogs. From pistachio obsession to African influences and Etna’s shadow, Sicily is chaotic, gritty, funny, and unforgettable. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Experience Taormina at Its Best: Gardens, Sea Breezes, and Ancient Ruins Posted on September 15, 2025August 17, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters My real estate agent is probably no different than any of the realtors here in Daegu. Real estate agents in the US, show you properties and once you select one, collect their fee and move on. But not here in Korea. He translates the mail, pays all my utilities for me and drink soju and dance to American rap classics. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Beyond Bangkok: Exploring the Beautiful Islands in Thailand Posted on February 6, 2025August 23, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Discover Thailand’s stunning islands beyond Bangkok, from the lively beaches of Phuket to the hidden coves of Koh Samet. Whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or vibrant nightlife, these islands offer pristine beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Explore, unwind, and embrace the beauty of Thailand’s tropical escapes. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Our Passports Were Stolen in Mallorca—Here’s What Happened Next Posted on December 12, 2024February 19, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters As the dimly lit street emptied, a heavy silence settled around us. My purse, once slung carelessly over a chair, was gone. The contents—passports, credit cards, and cherished trinkets—vanished without a trace. Had we crossed paths with a cunning thief or stumbled into a hidden plot? The questions lingered. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know About Taking the Blue Star Ferry from Santorini to Kos Posted on October 14, 2024August 25, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters We caught the slow, overnight ferry to the island of Santorini to catch up with my daughter who is in the Navy. The ferry left Kos around 8pm and arrived in Santorini early in the morning. I called ahead and the owner of the hotel sent a taxi for us and had tea and biscuits waiting for us in our room. My daughter’s ship was anchored off the coast of Santorini for a week. We rode the cable car down to the jetty where we received a brief tour of her ship. Read more