As a child, my grandmother would take my sister and I on skiing trips to Colorado, or to stay at dude ranches for a week. Yes, Dude Ranches are a thing, and yes, they’re a fantastic time with horseback riding, swimming, and games, especially for a girl who loves horses! My first trip out of the country followed shortly after as I went to visit family in Puerto Rico when I was nine which ignited my growing interest for international travel. I remember visiting the parks, being awed by the cultural foods, and my favorite: the coqui frogs whose chirps I could listen to all day.

Following Puerto Rico came our family trip to India when I was 12. When I was 18, a friend and I saved up for a trip to Portugal and Spain. This was my first trip without my family and a trip I discovered what kind of traveler I am. We enjoyed keeping busy, making friends at our hostels, and immersing ourselves in the culture and sights. I stepped out of my introverted comfort zone and it was worth it.

For me, travel is a way to experience different cultures of the present but also the past. I’m a bit of a history nerd, especially when it comes to European history and the royal families. I’ve always wanted to visit the palaces where royals lived. So I especially geeked out when I visited the palace of Versailles with my mom (also a European history lover) and saw the hall of mirrors in person. We are currently saving up for their overnight stay option!

Right now, the only hall of mirrors is the Mississippi river splitting the Quad Cities. This is the beginning of my story. I want to get excited about the Midwest. So my mission is to turn myself into a Midwest travel expert. Through affordable travel spots, I’ll focus on the adventures I discover in my surrounding states. I’m excited to see what I find!