With Missouri’s official launch into legal sports wagering in 2025, the Midwest’s entertainment map has shifted. The Show-Me State’s arrival in the regulated gaming arena puts it shoulder to shoulder with neighboring heavyweights like Illinois, Kansas, and Iowa. But legality is only part of the story. For sports fans, weekend travelers, and casual gamers alike, it’s about the full experience, convenience, pricing, culture, and game-day energy. From St. Joseph to the Bootheel, and across state lines into neighboring metros, the borderlines define more than geography. They now shape how and […]

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A part of the Cascades range, Mt. Lassen is a dormant volcano outside of Chester, California. While the volcano is considered dormant, it last erupted in 1915 and has many geologically active features, such as mud pots and hot springs. During the winter, this park is nearly inaccessible due to snowfall, but from late spring to early fall, it is a paradise for outdoor explorers and day trippers alike. Much of Mt. Lassen National Park can be seen via car, with a paved road connecting the two visitor centers and […]

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Japan is home to many famous destinations—Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido. Step beyond these classics and you’ll discover lesser-known regions and cultures with their own allure. This time I visited Nishiwaki, Hyogo, a town celebrated as the birthplace of Banshu-ori textile weaving, where a distinct heritage and craftsmanship thrive alongside daily life. In this article, I’ll share a hands-on trip through under-the-radar spots—from Banshu-ori workshops to museums, parks, and local cuisine. Illustrated report of the Banshu-ori factory tour in Nishiwaki City — highlighting Japanese cotton textiles, vintage looms, and unique […]

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The Caribbean is one of my favorite regions on the planet to travel; the best trip to this part of the world is one where your pace is slowed considerably and your time is spent in the moment. On more than one occasion, regardless of the country, I heard the phrase, ‘island time’; this lifestyle ethos is built around a no-hurry vibe and a pace focused on relaxation. And in addition, the region is known for its spectacular beaches, diversity of cuisine focused around seafood and outdoor activities. I’ve been […]

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This is arguably the coolest, best and most intriguing oasis in the entire state of California. If one were to plant a hot spring in the most remote of locations, it would be here – in Saline Valley. Certainly one of California’s most remote desert valleys and one of the state’s longest dirt roads – these hot springs are at least 3 hours from any sort of paved road. One can enter Saline Valley via either the North (Inyo mountains) or South passes (Nelson Range). Arriving from the north, the […]

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The Charm of Kinosaki Onsen and How My Journey Began Illustration by Kaori AkamatsuA playful illustrated scene of Kinosaki Onsen. Kinosaki Onsen, located in the northern part of Hyogo Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, is one of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring towns, with a history dating back over 1,300 years. Since the Edo period, it has been known as a town for therapeutic hot spring stays, a tradition that continues to be cherished today. The highlight of Kinosaki Onsen is its unique culture of visiting seven different public […]

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We landed in Albuquerque (one of the more difficult to spell U.S. cities), New Mexico. The last time I was here was by car and the entire city was a ghost town; I recall it was difficult to find any open restaurants and we ended up eating from a fast-food cart parked across from the downtown Rail Runner Train Station. This time we rented a car and immediately headed up to Santa Fe. We stopped at St. John’s College, loaded up on fresh ripe apricots from a tree on campus […]

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Murrieta Hot Springs, California,  Geothermal Resort Review I first discovered the benefits of thermal springs as a young bride living in Southern Germany.  My life there included visits to picturesque towns which evoked scenes right out of the “Sound of Music.”  But nothing quite surpassed the rejuvenation and relaxation I felt after a dip in one of the many thermal pools that dotted the Bavarian countryside. I had the pleasure of soaking in thermal mineral waters in Baden-Baden and Bad Tölz, as well as in many other geothermal spas throughout […]

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Anyone who has ever had the privilege of visiting or living in Australia will tell you that this vast country has plenty to offer lovers of all things nature. Its sheer size hosts a variety of different ecosystems, biomes, and natural wonders that need to be seen to be believed. Australia is home to the largest artesian system in the world, with nearly 600 artesian spring complexes found throughout the country, divided into 12 major groups ranging in size and temperature. There has never been a better time than now […]

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The sight of roaring waters cascading over a rocky ledge into a plunge pool below or the quiet view of a lonely river flowing into the sea provide a soothing experience to those who believe the healing power of natural attractions. Among these irresistible attractions are waterfalls and hot springs. Finding the most beautiful one, however, may be a tough hike, but the feel of fresh water on your body and the breathtaking views of the falls are worth the efforts. In addition to the foregoing, scientific research published in […]

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Japan skillfully balances its rich historical heritage with cutting-edge modernity. Most travelers’ itineraries typically include cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. However, the country’s real charm lies in its lesser-known destinations, waiting to be discovered by those who dare to step off the beaten path. This article takes you on an enchanting journey, exploring offbeat destinations in Japan that offer unique insights into the country’s captivating culture, intriguing history, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Luckily, Japan’s efficient Shinkansen, or bullet train, provides easy and speedy access to various regions across the […]

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It’s a courageous move for an airline to begin flying new transatlantic routes during a transitional time for the airline industry, but that’s exactly what PLAY has done. This Icelandic airline was founded in Reykjavik in 2019 by a team with significant experience in the aviation industry. They started flying to Reykjavik from the East Coast of the United States in 2022. I recently flew PLAY’s daily nonstop service to Keflavik, Reykjavik’s main international airport, from my home in New York City. They also have daily flights from Boston’s Logan […]

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Go to hell. The phrase has lost its power through overuse. Unless, perhaps the phase “go to hell” was intended not as a threat, but as a travel recommendation. I should have taken the two demon statues directly outside Japan’s Noboribetsu station as a warning that the good times were indeed about to end. Instead, I was delighted. Clearly, the colorful demons were proof I was in the right place. I had made it to Hokkaido’s Noboribetsu, destined for Jigokudani, aka ”Hell Valley”. Generally, I would have preferred to walk […]

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