Christkindlmarket Chicago 2026 Guide to Illinois’ Authentic German Christmas Markets
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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 ...
Read More... St Paul European Christmas Market 2026 Guide to Minnesota’s Holiday Tradition
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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 ...
Read More... Minneapolis Christkindl Market 2026 Guide to the Twin Cities’ Magical Christmas Market
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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 ...
Read More... Erie Canal, New York: Travel Guide to an Epic Road Trip Along the Legendary Waterway
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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 ...
Read More... Lewiston, New York: Travel Guide to the Historic Hidden Gem on the Niagara River
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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, ...
Read More... Best Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gamble
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, USA
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 ...
Read More... Route 66 Start to Finish: The Ultimate Epic Road Trip in the USA
By Marilee Kostadimas | Travel, 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 ...
Read More... Get travel inspo!
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and join our global community of slow travelers and travel dreamers.
It's a quick 1-2 minute read with slow travel stories, hidden gems, travel tips, recommendations, and conversations.
"Don't call it a newsletter! It's not a newsletter." "It’s the only email l really read and enjoy."
The Hidden Gemologists
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.