HOTELS Why You Should Maximize Marriott Bonvoy Promotions Posted on May 7, 2026October 25, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Marriott Bonvoy’s Spring 2026 promotion offers a practical way to earn extra points on the short trips many of us already take. Registered members can earn 2,500 bonus points per eligible paid stay between February 25 and May 10, 2026. Marriott also adds one bonus Elite Night Credit for every different hotel brand you stay during the promotion period. Registration closes April 26, 2026, so timing matters if you want the extra rewards. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Road Trip to Kalona, Iowa: Amish Country Travel Guide and Things to Do Posted on April 26, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Take a short drive to Kalona, Iowa and step into a slower way of life. Walk through history, shop local goods, and taste simple food made nearby. This guide shares what to see, where to stop, and how to plan a day trip or overnight stay back in time. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Cheongdo Persimmon Wine Tunnel: A Unique Taste of Korean Tradition Posted on April 21, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters The Gam Wine Tunnel opened its doors in 2006 in Cheongdo and is the world’s FIRST persimmon wine cellar. Cheongdo is lined with bright orange persimmon trees and small family farms. The persimmon is dried, made into juice and wine. I love wine, but I think I prefer the dried fruit option the best. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Beloit Wine Walk 2026: What It’s Really Like to Sip Through Downtown Posted on April 19, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters I almost skipped Beloit, but I’m glad I didn’t. This wine walk moves through real shops, not vineyards, with 20+ stops and plenty of choice. Tickets sell out fast, so plan ahead. It’s easy, social, and worth the short trip, especially if you want something different without going far. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Road Trip 3 East European Countries with Girlfriends Posted on April 15, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters After 3 whole days of partying, sightseeing and goulash in three different countries—jamming to YMCA in a Vienna taxi, a dance off in a Budapest nightclub and photo-bombing a bride and groom on the cobblestone streets of Bratislava, yes Bratislava, we hadn’t heard of it either. Now we were finally feeling the affects of what will henceforth be referred to as the Rock Star Weekend. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES A Leisurely Walking Tour of Muscatine, Iowa Posted on April 6, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Muscatine caught me off guard in a way I did not expect. I showed up thinking it would be a quick stop, but the mix of river views, local history, and small downtown spots keeps me coming back. Everything leads back to the river, whether I am walking along the path, sitting with a drink, or just looking out at the water. Each visit shows me something I missed before, and that quiet sense of discovery is what stays with me. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD What It Feels Like to Break Down on the Autobahn Posted on March 23, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters When my husband’s BMW died in flames on the Autobahn, I thought the worst was over—until I learned the truth years later. “Dead on the Autobahn” is a story of chaos, laughter, and a little betrayal. From panicked roadside calls to unexpected confessions, it’s a look at marriage, mistakes, and how love can survive even a car fire. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Spend 48 Hours in Burlington, Iowa this Spring Posted on March 8, 2026August 6, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Plan the perfect fall weekend in Greater Burlington. Enjoy peaceful nature trails, rich local history, and cafes serving seasonal favorites. Explore the Mississippi River’s edge as the fall colors peak. Stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites for a convenient and comfortable base. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES 7 Free Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Florence, Italy Posted on March 4, 2026October 16, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Florence feels different when you slow down. Beyond crowded museums, quiet spaces like San Miniato al Monte, the Rose Garden, and the Oltrarno reveal a softer rhythm. Street shrines, wine windows, and evening light in Piazza della Signoria create simple moments that feel more personal than any timed reservation or packed gallery. Read more