Travel, Taste and Tour

Dearest Readers, Springtime brings new beginnings. I’m sure we can all agree that sounds like a wonderful thing. I personally love the idea of change, in the sense that change always brings with it a learning opportunity. Spring symbolizes growth, birth and rebirth, renewal; so much positivity and vibrancy is upon us. Let us take this season in full stride and follow suit. Let us carry the theme of new beginnings into our daily habits, our households, our aspirations, and our exploration. Travel isn’t a tricky concept. It is growth and renewal itself. Being able to soak up each moment of a vacation – even the hectic, annoying parts – and utilizing those moments as learning tools for personal growth is one of my favorite things about traveling. Travel is culture. Travel…

Are we there yet?! "IF YOU'RE PLANNING A ROAD TRIP, MAKE SURE YOU'RE WELL RESTED!" 1 BRING SNACKS: Nothing is worse than cruising on a long drive and being hungry! But the drive through at the next exit isn’t necessarily our idea of a great snack – so think ahead and pack some delicious and healthy options that will keep you full. Think about snacks packed with protein, like energy bars or trail mix that are easy to eat while on the road. 2 PLAN BATHROOM BREAKS: You know nature will call at some point, so rather than have to figure out where to make a pit-stop while under stress, plan your bathroom breaks ahead of time. Take a look at your route and maybe even take the time to see some roadside…

PRESENTED BY enjoy illinois CHICAGO From world-class museums, to shopping along the Magnificent Mile to one-of-a-kind outdoor spaces like Millennium Park and Navy Pier – there is something for everyone in Chicago. Take in a sky-high view from one of Chicago’s thrilling observation decks – Skydeck Chicago or 360 CHICAGO. Snap a selfie at Cloud Gate, commonly referred to as “The Bean.” Stroll down Chicago’s Riverwalk, stopping for a drink along the way. Savor mouthwatering deep-dish pizza and listen to live music – including classic Chicago blues and jazz – at iconic venues. Soak in the city’s spectacular skyline along Lake Michigan, while enjoying a vibrant arts scene, inspiring architecture and a warm Midwest welcome. NAVY PIER Navy Pier, Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination is the #1 most visited leisure destination in the Midwest. With…

PRESENTED BY PURE MICHIGAN AS SPRING ARRIVES AND SUMMER DRAWS NEAR, warmer temperatures breathe new life into Michigan, a place filled with natural wonders sure to marvel any traveler. Michigan’s name comes from the Indian word Michi Gami meaning large lake, and it’s no secret why as the state is surrounded by four of the Great Lakes holding more than twenty percent of the world’s freshwater. In fact, Michigan has the most freshwater coastline in any U.S. state making it a true freshwater oasis and an ideal location for summer travel. Great Lakes aside, Michigan is also home to more than 11,000 inland lakes and 36,000 miles of rivers, so whether you’re looking to boat, canoe, swim or just be waterside, look no further! Or, if you’re looking to get lost in…

The heart of Louisiana offers some of the most incredible natural wonders in the south. If you’re looking to venture off the beaten path, you’ll be surprised by the meandering waterways and old farmhouses, winding back roads surrounded by tall, majestic pine trees that whisper in the breeze. In central Louisiana, living life off the land is still evident and outdoor adventure reigns supreme. Whether you’re an epic adventurer, or just “outdoorsy”, a lot of what central Louisiana has to offer doesn’t even require you to be athletic to participate. There are plenty of things pretty much anyone can do (and love) outdoors. In the forested piney hills and hardwood bottoms of central Louisiana lies Kisatchie National Forest. It is one of the largest pieces of natural landscape in Louisiana and…

WASHINGTON, DC | AUSTIN, TX PARIS, FRANCE | BARCELONA, SPAIN | PORTLAND, OR BARCELONA, SPAIN 1. WASHINGTON, DC: History abounds in the Nation’s Capital, with plenty of free museums and historical sites to choose from. Don’t miss taking a picture with Abe at the Lincoln Memorial or taking a stroll past the White House! Be sure to stop by some of the great local and historic neighborhoods and you'll see there is more to DC than just politics. Austin is home to some of the best barbecue eats in the known universe! 2. AUSTIN, TX Everything is bigger in Texas - some would argue it’s better, too! One thing is for certain: Austin is home to some of the best BBQ eats in the known universe, including the ever-famous Franklin’s Barbecue. Each plate is definitely Instagram-worthy,…