Kayleigh Ethridge

Wichita has become one of my favorite Midwest cities thanks to the close friends I have who live there and have built incredible local businesses. Every visit introduces me to another hidden gem, whether it's a neighborhood café, an unforgettable restaurant or a locally owned shop with a story to tell. While Wichita is known as the Air Capital of the World, I think its greatest strength is its thriving community of entrepreneurs and creatives who make the city feel welcoming and full of character. If you love discovering places that locals genuinely support, Wichita deserves a spot on your travel list.

Helsinki is a city that immediately feels intentional—calm, beautifully designed, and easy to settle into. Arriving from Finland’s lake region made the transition into the capital feel especially striking, as the pace shifted from quiet nature to a creative, design-forward city on the water. What makes Helsinki so memorable is how naturally it invites you to slow down, whether you’re exploring museums, walking the harbor, or spending long evenings outdoors in the summer light. This itinerary also includes a day trip to Tallinn, offering a seamless way to experience two distinct Nordic-Baltic cultures in just a few days.

Keuruu is the kind of destination that reminds you to slow down. Surrounded by forests, pristine lakes and traditional Finnish culture, it offers an authentic experience that's difficult to find in larger cities. I especially love visiting in the summer, when the long daylight hours invite you to spend your days hiking, swimming, enjoying a lakeside sauna and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're exploring local history or unwinding by the water, Keuruu showcases Finland at its most genuine.

The Costa Maya snorkeling experience is a must-do when sailing to Costa Maya with Royal Caribbean because it offers a perfect mix of adventure and ease. Spending time with a dedicated guide means you see the best snorkeling spots without the stress of navigating on your own. The experience ends with access to a private pool and beach, unlimited open bar, and great food, making it feel both fun and indulgent. With transportation to and from the port included, it is a seamless and memorable way to enjoy the destination.

Stillmeadow, located in Garden City, Missouri, is a family-owned retreat that celebrates everything special about Midwest hospitality. It’s a place where rustic charm meets modern intention, from sipping coffee at Cultivate to exploring their beautiful grounds designed for weddings, gatherings, and workshops. What struck me most was the way Stillmeadow blends wellness, creativity, and connection, it feels both restorative and inspiring. For anyone looking to slow down and truly savor life’s simple joys, this is the perfect Midwest escape.

Cannon Beach has always felt like a place where I could breathe a little deeper and slow down. Walking along the shoreline with Haystack Rock in view never fails to leave me in awe. Between the stunning sunsets, cozy cafés, and charming art galleries, every visit feels like coming back to somewhere I belong. Cannon Beach is a quintessential Oregon Coast town where rugged cliffs meet charming streets lined with galleries, cafés, and local shops.