Countdown to Fun: Experience the Magic of Spring in Amana Colonies!

Amana, Iowa - May 1, 2023: Amana Colonies founded by German Radical Pietists. May poles decorate Main Street on May Day following German tradition. Ronneburg Restaurant and The Clothes Encounter.

I still remember my first Maipole festival in Germany many years ago. It was the start of spring, and the whole village turned out for it. Everyone was dressed up and the Maipole in the center was wrapped with bright ribbons. There was a lot of laughter and dancing, and you could hear music everywhere. People of all ages were catching up, sharing big plates of food and drinking beer right from the tap. It felt like everyone was part of one big family celebrating together. Now, all these years later, I get to relive that joyful tradition right here in my backyard at the Amana Colonies Maifest.

Salt Flats pose

The Utah Great Salt Flats: Are They Worth Visiting?

Salt Lake City, Utah, a city surrounded by majestic natural beauty, recently surprised me with its vibrant spirit and stunning landscapes. My visit was part of a special event—the Women in Travel Summit, and the trip to the Salt Flats was sponsored by the Visit Utah Tourism Board. This event brought together a dynamic group of women bloggers, offering us a chance to connect and share experiences. After leaving our hotel at 4:30 AM for the 90-minute journey, our group was thrilled to explore one of Utah’s many treasures, the mesmerizing Salt Flats.

High West Water feature

A Spirited Day at High West Distillery with Visit Utah Tourism

I wasn’t sure what to expect on my first trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, but it turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise. I recently got to visit the High West Distillery with a group of energetic women bloggers. This fun tour was part of our schedule at the Women in Travel Summit, which took place in Salt Lake City with help from the Visit Utah Tourism Board. It was a great chance to connect and enjoy a new experience together.

Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera

Hiking the Cinque Terre: From Monterosso to Vernazza

Our hike from Monterosso to Vernazza promised an adventure, yet it was tougher than any of us anticipated. A pinch of research would have clued us in, but we skipped that step. Similarly, we overlooked the weather forecast, adding another layer of unpredictability to our journey. “What could possibly go wrong?” we mused, envisioning a simple trek along a mountain ridge linking five quaint fishing villages. This oversight set the stage for an unforgettable experience. The Cinque Terre, with its rugged beauty along Italy’s Riviera, etched a lasting memory in our hearts, filled with lessons, laughter, and the sheer unpredictability of travel.

Making friends in Korea- Kyung Sook

A Gift from Strangers: 7 Acts of Kindness While Traveling

I bet you’ve experienced this too. When you travel, it’s not just about seeing new places. You often meet kind strangers who make your journey special. Every step into the unknown helps you understand and connect with others, no matter where they’re from. These kind moments, like sharing a meal, getting help, or a kind word, make my trips warm and memorable. Let me tell you about six times when kindness from others made my travels brighter and showed me it’s the people we meet, not just the places we go, that truly make our adventures unforgettable.

Celebrity Hats in Galena

Galena Uncovered: Explore the Driftless Landscapes and Historical Treasures

Are you in search of an excellent road trip destination close to Rock Island Arsenal? Today, we’re embarking on a scenic journey to Galena, a quaint Midwest town that’s more than just a dot on the map. Nestled among rolling hills and historic landscapes, Galena offers a glimpse into a world where the past and present merge seamlessly. In this post, we’ll delve into the historic charm of Galena, from its picturesque farmhouses and shimmering silos to the quaint shops lining Main Street, showcasing why this road trip might just be the perfect retreat you’ve been looking for.

St Louis Chelsea Coffee seating

6 Great Cafes to Get Coffee in St. Louis

Regardless of the amount of time you have, sitting down with your laptop, inhaling the aroma of freshly roasted beans, and sipping on a piping hot latte or an ice-cold Americano has become a cherished pastime for many of us. If you find yourself in this category or you’re simply passing through the area, consider exploring some of the coffee in St. Louis. And don’t think it’s just about the coffee—many of these places offer a variety of beverages and delicious treats beyond the typical cup of joe.

Wanderful Blogging Conference Presenter

Reflecting on My First Time as a Podcast Guest

I recently leaped from my comfort zone by participating in my first podcast guest appearance. This was a new challenge for me, as someone who typically finds solace behind the camera rather than in front of it. Despite my initial reservations, the experience turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable. It has ignited an interest in exploring more opportunities like this, perhaps even venturing into creating more content for my own YouTube channel. If I do, I’ve identified some areas of my personal appearance, performance, setup that I need to improve before my next podcast appearance.

Stacey at 2024 eclipse

Where to See the Total Solar Eclipse in America

On April 8, 2024, a rare astronomy event unfolds in North America: a total solar eclipse visible in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. The path of totality, where the moon covers the sun, spans from Mazatlan to Canada’s Atlantic Coast. Depending on the weather, catch a partial eclipse locally, or journey to the path for the full experience. Discover prime viewing locations as the country plunges into darkness.

Tuscany Italy rows of wine

Italy Unplugged: Embracing Slow Travel Instead of a Bucket List

In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life’s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time seems to stand still among the olive groves and vineyards. We’ll introduce you to agriturismos where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns perfect for leisurely exploration, and the Italian concept of “la dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing. Discover how to truly immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle, making every moment count.