Author Profile: Stacey Peters

Cedar Rapids is a great option when you want to explore more of the Midwest. At just an hour and a half drive (about 85 miles) from Rock Island Arsenal, the city may seem quiet at first glance, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find its distinct districts. NewBo, Czech Village, and the MedQuarter each bring their own charm, offering scenic trails, cozy cafes, and rich local history. Together, they make Cedar Rapids the perfect spot for a fall weekend...   view more

I booked a day trip to Bodrum, Turkey, on a whim. That was the best decision ever. Sailing from Greece’s ancient shores into Turkey felt both unfamiliar and familiar, like stepping into a scene from a history book or a film. The air was thick with the scent of the sea and something more—spices, mystery, and history. As the call to prayer echoed over the blue-green water, I felt drawn in, like I was answering an ancient call myself. My kids and I still talk about that day—the sights, the...   view more

We are heading back to Cleveland for the second time soon! At first glance, Cleveland might not scream “must-see destination,” but this city will definitely surprise you. With tier-one professional sports teams in football, basketball, and baseball, Cleveland has more to offer than you might think. Cleveland is packed with attractions, from world-class museums and breathtaking nature trails to stunning architecture and cool eateries. There’s so much to do that there’s no way we’ll be...   view more

Grabbing a quick cup of coffee at a local coffee shop may be just one of the stops during your busy day, or it could turn into a cafe-hopping adventure. 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...   view more

We like to take advantage of holidays when traveling. However, Juneteenth fell on Wednesday this year, so we couldn’t travel far without taking off additional days. We chose Madison because it’s less than 3 hours (160 miles) from our front door. It also offered the opportunity to spend a few days in Wisconsin– a state we had never visited before. Luckily, Madison, Wisconsin, offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a good choice. Here are seven things to do in Madison...   view more

Minneapolis, Minnesota, has a rich Scandinavian heritage but is now a melting pot of cultures. You’ll find West Africans, Hmong Americans, and Mexicans bringing their foods and traditions to the “Twin” City. It’s also called the “Mini Apple” (you’ll get the pun when you say it out loud) because of its sophisticated downtown and love for the arts. Minneapolis perfectly blends culture, nature, and vibrant city life. From the legendary Prince Museum to the serene Minnehaha Falls,...   view more

Dubuque, Iowa, offers a captivating weekend escape 2 hours from Rock Island, blending history with modern flair. Dating back to 1833, it predates Iowa’s statehood by 13 years, giving it a rich heritage. Picture-perfect scenes of riverboats cruising the Mississippi River against the backdrop of limestone bluffs create an unforgettable setting. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find a delightful mix of old-world charm and contemporary vibes, where traditional establishments coexist with quirky...   view more

What do a historic mill, a butterfly garden, and a splash pad have in common? They’re all part of the unique charm that makes Muscatine stand out along the Mississippi River. We’re heading out for another road trip. From sipping wine at a local vineyard to posing with the world’s largest watermelon, you’ll find some of the best attractions in Muscatine, which are quirky and...   view more

Idar-Oberstein, with its 600-year gem-cutting history, is one of Germany’s prettiest little mining towns. Its picturesque charm and rich heritage make it a must-visit for gem enthusiasts. Start your visit at Steinkaulenberg gemstone mine, the only one in Europe open to the public. It offers hobbyists, gemstone lovers, and aspiring “treasure hunters” the chance to mine semi-precious stones under the direct supervision of...   view more

Looking for a fun and easy day trip? A day trip to LeClaire, Iowa, just a short drive from Rock Island Arsenal, offers a perfect mix of food, fun, and river views. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, LeClaire, Iowa, is a charming town just a quick 25-minute drive from Rock Island Arsenal. LeClaire is an ideal day trip destination known for its rich history, vibrant shopping scene, and picturesque...   view more

Located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) north of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai offers an easy day trip or weekend escape. The journey takes 3 to 4 hours by car or bus, Chiang Rai is a kaleidoscope of colors and experiences, blending cultural landmarks, natural beauty, stunning cafes and vibrant local life. From brilliant temples to lush green tea fields, Chiang Rai offers a lively mix of sights and sensations. Here’s how to embrace the city’s colorful...   view more

The Lake Geneva area is a beautiful region that includes several charming towns and cities surrounding the lake, which has a shoreline of about 21 miles. The main city, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, is known for its resorts, shopping, dining, and lakefront...   view more

I spent a weekend in Ulsan and found it full of surprises. The drive from Daegu took under two hours, making it an easy escape. Ulsan combines nature, history, and quirky attractions into one unforgettable experience. I walked through bamboo forests, admired dramatic coastlines, visited botanical gardens, and relaxed at stunning cafes perched at the ocean’s edge. My weekend in Ulsan left me wanting to...   view more

We kicked off our weekend in Gangneung with a scenic drive along the coast, setting the tone for a memorable escape. After a restful night in Pohang, Robyn and I set off early in the morning, our spirits high with anticipation for the coastal adventures that awaited us in Gangneung. The drive, about three hours, hugged the coastline and provided breathtaking views. The scenic route was as refreshing as the destination, with panoramic sea views guiding...   view more

Topeka is a great city to visit if you are stationed at Fort Riley. It’s only an hour away, and the drive takes you through some of the prettiest rolling hills and grasslands in northeast Kansas. Topeka has played a significant part in American history as well. And if that’s not enough, there are plenty of outdoor activities, parks, and interesting things to do in Topeka that are FREE...   view more

Perhaps best known as the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, Stuttgart exudes an air of relaxed prosperity and a keen sense of style. It is renowned for being one of the greenest cities in Europe, boasting numerous parks, vast green spaces, and surrounded by over 500 vineyards. Art and culture thrive in Stuttgart, making it a haven for enthusiasts of art, cars, nature, wine, and beer. Here are the top 10 reasons why Stuttgart should be on your...   view more

In Peoria, the Illinois River isn’t merely a waterway. It serves as the central thread weaving together a tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re soaring high in the parks, gazing into the cosmos from an observatory, or exploring the city’s rich history in museums, each moment offers a chance to connect with the beauty. Additionally, leisurely drifting along the river on a cruise uniquely lets you experience this city’s...   view more

Welcome to Little Rock, a city of diverse charm. From its blend of style and tranquility to its rich history and cultural offerings, this destination promises many unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the local art scene, explore the beauty of nature, and indulge in the distinct flavors of the city. Little Rock invites you on a captivating journey, where every moment immerses yourself in the local art, nature’s beauty, and the city’s distinctive...   view more

Get ready for an extraordinary weekend brimming with excitement, culinary delights, and exploration! “The Waterloo Experience” is your ultimate guide to unlocking the best of Waterloo, Iowa, packed with thrilling activities and gastronomic adventures. Dive into this post to uncover insider secrets on navigating Waterloo’s dynamic downtown, discovering treasures like the Downtown 4th Street Bridge and the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans...   view more

We used to live in Manhattan, Kansas, and now we often visit Malik at Kansas State University. Although “The Little Apple” is very familiar to us, we always try to find something new to do together when we visit. My son, Malik, is a senior accounting major at Kansas State University, and every trip to see him is an adventure. From exploring his campus to diving into the local charm of this vibrant college town, I’ve come to love our visits. Here’s how I spent my latest weekend with Malik...   view more

Frankfurt often gets reduced to just an airport stopover. I get it—I’ve been guilty of breezing through FRA without giving the city a second thought. But the first time I actually stepped outside the terminal, I was stunned by how much I’d been missing. Frankfurt is a city of contrasts, where medieval charm meets modern skyscrapers, and culture lovers can lose themselves in world-class museums. Here are ten experiences that prove Frankfurt is worth more than a...   view more

Istanbul is a city where I feel a deep connection, not just because of its breathtaking architecture but also because of its unique character. As I walked its streets, I could hear the call to prayer echoing across the Bosporus, smell the rich spices lingering in the air, and feel the vibrancy of life as locals rushed past. It’s not just a place where East meets West geographically; you can sense it in every interaction, from the mix of flavors at the markets to the diversity in the people you...   view more

Chiang Mai is a city that captures hearts with its unique blend of culture, community, and charm. It’s no surprise that so many Westerners call this vibrant city home, more than in any other part of Thailand or even Asia. They mingle in cozy coffee shops, explore bustling street markets, and savor the flavors at countless restaurants and bars. Every corner of Chiang Mai offers something delicious and delightful. I’ve only just begun to uncover the city’s treasures, but here are eleven...   view more

Salt Lake City, nestled in a stunning mountain-ringed valley in Utah, offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scenes. Must-see Salt Lake City attractions include the iconic Temple Square, the expansive Great Salt Lake, and many more, each telling a part of the story that makes this dynamic city uniquely captivating. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, like me, or returning to explore deeper, these sites showcase the rich heritage and...   view more

Catania, on the island of Sicily, has a long history. The city’s history spans more than 27 centuries. Here are a few things to See and Do in Catania, Sicily. The island was shaped by many cultures, such as the Greeks, Romans, Barbarians, Byzantines, Moors, and the Normans. So, many well-preserved statues, temples, and mosaics have changed from Christian to Muslim. Consequently, I look forward to exploring as much of Catania as...   view more

Each visit to Manhattan, Kansas, brings something new. My son Malik is a senior at Kansas State University, so we’ve spent many weekends here. We’ve done the campus tours, the football games, and even axe-throwing. But this time, we slowed down. We leaned into the quieter side of the “Little Apple”—fewer crowds, more quiet corners and conversation. A weekend in Manhattan means something different every time we...   view more