Blog

All of my blog posts! See the menu navigation for more specific categories.

  • How to Be a Tourist in Your Own City

    How to Be a Tourist in Your Own City

    After living in Chicago for a few months, I sat inside bored and alone on a cool fall day. I had just moved from a small rural town and finally had a big city as my backyard to explore, but I rarely took the opportunity to venture outside of my neighborhood. Instead of lounging around… Read more

  • Kissing the Blarney Stone: Everything You Need to Know

    Kissing the Blarney Stone: Everything You Need to Know

    Ah, so you hope to kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the gift of the gab. Well, before you kiss the infamous stone, what even is it, and why did people start kissing it? And what’s the gift of the gab?? Read more

  • Here’s why you should visit Michigan’s UP this winter

    Here’s why you should visit Michigan’s UP this winter

    When you think of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the winter, you might be deterred by the idea of freezing temps and lots of snow. However, winter adds a fresh, magical quality to the UP, making it a serene vacation destination. Here’s why you should visit the Upper Peninsula this winter. Read more

  • My Thai Cheat Sheet: Thai Phrases to Know

    My Thai Cheat Sheet: Thai Phrases to Know

    Thailand is at the top of many people’s bucket list, and rightfully so. However, it’s important to learn some Thai before your visit. Here’s a list of Thai phrases I compiled before my trip to Thailand. Read more

  • Stirling Castle: History & Things to Know

    Stirling Castle: History & Things to Know

    Situated on a rocky bluff, Stirling Castle in Scotland was once one of the country’s most important structures. Not only that, but it was the early childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, one of Scotland’s most prominent royals. I had a chance to visit the castle in June 2023 and catch a small glimpse… Read more

  • Visiting Starved Rock: Everything you need to know

    Visiting Starved Rock: Everything you need to know

    Less than two hours from Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is an excellent day trip from the city. Filled with 13 miles of trails, waterfalls, canyons, bluffs, and more, the park is the perfect short-term retreat. Here’s everything to know before your visit! Read more