Artisanal Christmas Ornament with the Chicago city scape as a design

Christkindlmarket Chicago 2026 Guide to Illinois’ Authentic German Christmas Markets

The enchanting Christkindlmarket Chicago creates holiday magic and memories infused with the authentic traditions and festive spirit of Austrian and German Christmas Markets. Paul and ...
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St Paul European Christmas Market: Blog Cover Image

St Paul European Christmas Market 2026 Guide to Minnesota’s Holiday Tradition

The St Paul European Christmas Market is a beloved holiday tradition in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It's a festive, authentic holiday event with free admission and ...
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Ceramic mugs at Chriskindl Market in Minneapolis MN

Minneapolis Christkindl Market 2026 Guide to the Twin Cities’ Magical Christmas Market

The enchanting Minneapolis Christkindl Market charms and delights visitors with classic European-inspired Christmas festivities in Minnesota's Twin Cities. Paul and I (Marilee) greatly enjoy traditional ...
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Confluence of Mohawk and Hudson rivers at lock E2 the beginning of the Erie Canal at sunset

Erie Canal, New York: Travel Guide to an Epic Road Trip Along the Legendary Waterway

The legendary Erie Canal is a fully Navigable National Historic Landmark across New York State. The Erie Canal is also an unexpected epic road trip ...
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Stella Niagara preserve with trees starting to bloom, tall grass covers the foreground in front of a small white isolated church, the turquoise waters of the mighty Niagara River flow past, and a motor boat skims the water

Lewiston, New York: Travel Guide to the Historic Hidden Gem on the Niagara River

Travel off the beaten path in New York State to Lewiston, the beautiful and historic hidden gem on the Niagara River. Yes, nearby Niagara Falls, ...
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Greetings from Las Vegas postcard-style mural in the Arts District

Best Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gamble

What comes to mind when you think of the best things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling? Luxury hotels and famous restaurants Swanky nightlife ...
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Original Historic Route 66 roadway in the Mojave Desert with Route 66 shield painted on the road

Route 66 Start to Finish: The Ultimate Epic Road Trip in the USA

Route 66, start to finish, is the ultimate epic road trip in the United States. It's a legendary adventure across eight states, from Illinois in ...
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All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns' own.

All content and images are original, created with care by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas and Paul Kostadimas. We're the Hidden Gemologists® of Spotlight Sojourns: Award-winning travel experts and slow travel storytellers. Because slow travel is meaningful travel, part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.