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Midwest Travel Journalists Association

@traveljournalists.bsky.social
156 followers 127 following 154 posts

Travel #journalists, #photographers and #PR professionals inspiring #travel in 13 Midwestern states and around the world. mtja.us Ask us questions and we'll tell you where to go!

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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
Iowa City - such a cool place for everyone. www.usatoday.com/story/travel...
usatoday.com
Iowa City Pride: The places, people that make this city so LGBTQIA+ friendly
From Prairie Lights Books to the Studio 13 club, Iowa City is a queer travel destination right alongside San Francisco, New York and Miami.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
Summer time 😎is margarita time! 🍹 Let's explore the Margaritaville Lake Resort at Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks - with MTJA's Jamie Rhein. www.hotel-scoop.com/margaritavil...
hotel-scoop.com
Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake of the Ozarks: Fun Central
A one-night stay at the Margaritaville Lake Resort at Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri gave me a taste of what the resort offers. I found plenty to bring me back.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 08/06/2025
Make plans to celebrate PRIDE and the authenticity of Kentucky bourbon in the Bourbon and Belonging event in Louisville, and this story by MTJA @dianalm.bsky.social www.usatoday.com/story/travel...
usatoday.com
Kentucky hosts Bourbon and Belonging event to welcome LGBTQ+ revelers
Bourbon and Belonging was a first-of-its-kind LGBTQ+-friendly event in Kentucky bringing bourbon lovers to sip and sample from all over the country.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 06/06/2025
Iowa City Iowa is such a cool town where Pride is on display everyday. MTJA’s @dianalm.bsky.social shows us why. www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa...
google.com
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 24/05/2025
Oh, Quebec City. What a lovely French city here in North America. MTJA's Courtney Fries fell in love with it when she was researching this story for National Geographic. www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/artic...
nationalgeographic.com
For a slice of Parisian charm without the crowds, consider Quebec City
Cobblestone streets, cafes, and French cuisine await you in this Canadian provincial capital.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 18/05/2025
Are you planning your summer vacation? Plan on North Dakota and the wonderful community of Medora. MTJA's Randy Mink loved it. Here's why. www.journal-topics.com/articles/lit...
journal-topics.com
Little Medora Preserves North Dakota’s Western Spirit - Journal & Topics Media Group
Joe Wiegand, as Teddy Roosevelt, leads a hike for tourists in Medora. (Randy Mink Photo) It may be just a tiny dot on the map in this largely rural state, but Medora looms big for vacationers scouting...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 16/05/2025
You know that next year is the 100th anniversary of Route 66, right? The Mother Road is having a 2,448 mile party from Chicago to the Santa Monica pier. MTJA's Randy Mink takes a look at some of the quirky fun in Oklahoma. leisuregrouptravel.com/route-66-dis...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Route 66 Discoveries in Northeastern Oklahoma
With the fabled highway’s centennial coming up in 2026, now is the time to plan a road trip into yesteryear. Oklahoma communities have the welcome mat out.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 15/05/2025
Summer road trips are meant to explore the small towns and lesser known areas. MTJA's Randy Mink found some great ones in Illinois. leisuregrouptravel.com/cruisin-down...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Cruisin’ Down the Highway
Illinois was made for road tripping. Its cities, towns and natural areas are packed with fun things to see and do.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 13/05/2025
Here's a pro-tip: Put Bismarck-Mandan on your travel agenda and embrace the Wild West/Mild West experiences MTJA's Todd Wessell found on his visit to North Dakota! www.journal-topics.com/articles/fro...
journal-topics.com
From Wild West To Mild West - Journal & Topics Media Group
Beneath the three block houses positioned across the green landscape of North Dakota, a stiff breeze from the west constantly re-shapes the fluttering tall grass. The mid-June afternoon weather in the...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 11/05/2025
We love travel of all kinds, but MTJA's Mary Bergin loves train travel and shares these great little towns you can visit via Amtrak. www.nextavenue.org/train-travel...
nextavenue.org
Train Travel to Tiny Towns
Think beyond popular metro stops when planning a train trip
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 08/05/2025
The lighthouse in Grand Haven Michigan, photographed by MTJA’s Elizabeth Granger. What are your summer travel plans? ☀️⛱️
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 05/05/2025
Travel left a $2.9 trillion footprint on the U.S. economy last year impacting 15 million jobs and creating $1.9 billion in tax revenue. That’s the power of travel and why we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. #nttw25
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 04/05/2025
Today marks the beginning of National Travel and Tourism Week, bringing attention to the $2.9 trillion economic engine that impacts every state and businesses large and small. Travel with us every day of the year! #NTTW25
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 03/05/2025
From the Old West to the Mild West - what fun headlines and what fun to be had in Bismarck North Dakota with MTJA's Todd Wessell. www.journal-topics.com/articles/fro...
journal-topics.com
From Wild West To Mild West - Journal & Topics Media Group
Lone visitor to Fort Abraham Lincoln makes her way toward one of the replica block houses on the grounds. During the 1870s, soldiers stationed in the wooden block houses would keep watch for Indian ra...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 02/05/2025
Such a colorful and flavorful destination in Atlanta. MTJA's Randy Mink takes us on a tour of the World of Coke. leisuregrouptravel.com/coke-attract...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Coke Attraction Captivates Visitors to Atlanta
For those thirsting for nostalgia, World of Coca-Cola is the Real Thing. Tasting stations offer samples of beverages from around the globe.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 30/04/2025
The great state of Illinois is more than Abe Lincoln, Route 66 and Chicago. There are some adorable hidden gems tucked throughout the state and MTJA's Randy Mink visited all of them. We ♥️ the really big rocking chair and other big things in Centralia. leisuregrouptravel.com/hidden-gems-...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Hidden Gems of Illinois
Some of Illinois’ most intriguing attractions are often overlooked in favor of the obvious crowd-pleasers. Trips that veer off the beaten path give tour members a chance to make fresh discoveries
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janeammeson.bsky.social @janeammeson.bsky.social · 27/04/2025
Nayarit takes center stage as one of the best places to visit in 2025 This stunning state on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, making it the ultimate fall and winter escape. Endless…
janeammeson.com
Nayarit takes center stage as one of the best places to visit in 2025
This stunning state on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, making it the ultimate fall and winter escape. Endless Sunshine and Stunning Beaches Nayarit boasts over 200 miles of Pacific coastline, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush mountain backdrops. And no matter the season, the state’s year-round warm climate is a dream come true. Destinations like Sayulita, Punta Mita, and San Blas provide the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class surfing and paddleboarding to sun-soaked afternoons under swaying palm trees.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 28/04/2025
Tulip Time is coming to Holland Michigan this next weekend. Such an authentic experience. Learn more at tuliptime.com?fbclid=IwY2x...
tuliptime.com
Home :: Tulip Time
Visit Tulip Time, the Holland, Michigan festival that boasts over 5 million tulips, planted & ready to burst forth in bloom in early spring.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 28/04/2025
Who is considering a trip to Turkiye? MTJA's Pamela McKuen, @pamelamckuen.bsky.social, was there recent and shares her experiences in Antalya. www.loopnorth.com/news/antalya...
loopnorth.com
Antalya, Türkiye: A modern era for an ancient world on the Mediterranean Sea. And cats.
Turkey's fifth largest city offers an alluring mix of ancient history and modern comforts, making it a must-visit for tourists. Explore its rich archaeological sites, beautiful vineyards, and the char...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 26/04/2025
Celebrating independent bookstore day! We encourage you to support them today and every day, hopefully with a purchase from the travel section.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
This Foodie Friday, let's take a road trip to the St. Lawrence Market in Toronto with MTJA's @pamelamckuen.bsky.social Yummmm! long-weekends.com/articles/spr...
long-weekends.com
Embrace your inner foodie with St. Lawrence Market Food Tours in Toronto Ontario
Check out this behind-the-scenes foodie experience that offers tastings and artful storytelling about the city’s rich food culture.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 24/04/2025
When you next visit Atlanta, you must visit the World of Coke. MTJA's Randy Mink tells us visitors can sample soft drinks from around the world and so much more. leisuregrouptravel.com/coke-attract...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Coke Attraction Captivates Visitors to Atlanta
For those thirsting for nostalgia, World of Coca-Cola is the Real Thing. Tasting stations offer samples of beverages from around the globe.
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
SpicyPisces89 @spicypisces89.bsky.social · 24/04/2025
I voted for #KamalaHarris - not whatever TF this Banana Republic nonsense is
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
Greg Vaughn @gregvaughn.bsky.social · 23/04/2025
The Colorado River, deep in Grand Canyon. I am thrilled that I get to run the river through this incredible landscape again for another photography workshop adventure. Want to join me? muenchworkshops.com/workshops/gr...
muenchworkshops.com
Grand Canyon Photo Workshop
Join us on an active adventure down the Colorado River! Explore the geology, history, and ecology of the legendary Grand Canyon while capturing its beauty. Fully-outfitted camping and fresh meals prep...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 23/04/2025
Vietnam is such an interesting and inexpensive country to visit. MTJA's Jamie Rhein was there recently and stayed in the best place in Trang An. Put this one on your list for your travel planning to Vietnam. www.hotel-scoop.com/trang-an-eco...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 20/04/2025
MTJA’s Elizabeth Granger has been hanging out with Bob Dylan in Kalamazoo Michigan. Did you know he was born in Hibbing Minnesota? Two great Midwest destinations to visit for Dylan fans.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 19/04/2025
Right smack in the middle of the Midwest is Illinois with so many fun road trips from top to bottom. A native of the Land of Lincoln, MTJA's Randy Mink shows us some of his favorite stops in Illinois. leisuregrouptravel.com/cruisin-down...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Cruisin’ Down the Highway
Illinois was made for road tripping. Its cities, towns and natural areas are packed with fun things to see and do.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 18/04/2025
#FoodieFriday let's make plans for Wisconsin, a great food destination with numerous James Beard award winning chefs, Native foods, wine cranberries and more. MTJA's Randy Mink tried them all! leisuregrouptravel.com/wisconsin-fo...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Wisconsin Food Tourism in 2025
In recent years, many Wisconsin chefs and restaurants have been named semifinalists for James Beard Awards, often described as the Oscars of the food world.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 17/04/2025
Such good food experiences in Wisconsin - so much more than cheese! 🧀 MTJA's Randy Mink tried it all! leisuregrouptravel.com/wisconsin-fo...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Wisconsin Food Tourism in 2025
In recent years, many Wisconsin chefs and restaurants have been named semifinalists for James Beard Awards, often described as the Oscars of the food world.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 16/04/2025
The Panama Canal is in the news a lot these days. So let's take a cruise, with MTJA's Janet Steinberg, to experience the canal from sea to shining sea. www.journal-topics.com/articles/fro...
journal-topics.com
From Sea To Shining Sea - Journal & Topics Media Group
The Panama Canal is once again making headlines. Between 1904 and 1914, the United States' construction of the Panama Canal was headline news. In 1999, the United States transferred full authority and...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 15/04/2025
Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesen and other cultural treasures from a Wisconsin road trip with MTJA's Randy Mink. leisuregrouptravel.com/wisconsin-ar...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 14/04/2025
There are so many beautiful ways to explore Spain. MTJA’s @janeammeson.bsky.social took a train across the northern coast. www.meer.com/en/85253-cos...
meer.com
Costa Verde express
A ride through Spain's rich northern coasts
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 14/04/2025
Oh here’s something fun to do in Michigan this summer. Donut boats long-weekends.com/articles/spr...
long-weekends.com
Embrace summer fun with Donut Boat Rentals in Saugatuck, Michigan
Rent one of these whimsical, easy-driving boats that can hold up to 10 passengers and is perfect for lake and river cruising.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 06/04/2025
Today is National Sorry Charlie Day, inspired by Charlie the Tuna who was not good enough to be a Starkist Tuna. It's a day that we embrace our rejections. Read all about it and the fun lady who created it, in this story by MTJA's @dianalm.bsky.social citylifestyle.com/articles/inv...
citylifestyle.com
Investing in Fun
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 30/03/2025
An important part of history told in a remote spot in Wyoming at a place called Heart Mountain. MTJA's Randy Mink recently visited this sobering space. leisuregrouptravel.com/heart-mounta...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center Illuminates a Dark Chapter in History
Heart Mountain Interpretive Center tells the story of Japanese Americans who were unjustly rounded up and sent to a remote internment camp in the high desert
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
Travel Time @travellovers.bsky.social · 27/03/2025
Rocky formations.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 27/03/2025
Have you heard of the park in Arkansas where you can dig for diamonds? 💎 And people occasionally find a big one! MTJA's Randy Mink did not - or he's not telling if he did - but here's where you can give it a try. leisuregrouptravel.com/prospecting-...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Prospecting for Gems at Crater of Diamonds State Park
Murfreesboro, Arkansas is home to Diamonds State Park, where anyone can search for diamonds in their original volcanic source.
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
I Quit Smoking 🚭 📚 🐕 @iquitcigs.bsky.social · 14/11/2024
Bagnell Dam which created 54K Acres "Lake of the Ozarks" Missouri Playground...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 23/03/2025
It's pronounced Wash-tah, and it's a beautiful place in the mountains of western Arkansas. MTJA's Randy Mink thinks its a perfect place for you to plan your family reunion. destinationreunions.com/lake-ouachit...
destinationreunions.com
Lake Ouachita Has All the Ingredients for a Great Reunion
For a fun family conclave away from home, consider the Diamond Lakes region of western Arkansas, where Mountain Harbor Resort will satisfy everyone in the clan
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 22/03/2025
Just outside of Yellowstone National Park, Cody Wyoming is the embodiment of the old west. MTJA's Randy Mink had so much fun - and you will too! www.journal-topics.com/articles/ves...
journal-topics.com
Vestiges Of The Old West Simmer In Cody, Wyoming - Journal & Topics Media Group
Buffalo Bill Cody Not only is the town named after him, but so is its premier tourist attraction. Indeed, the spirit of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show pervades Cody, Wyoming. Anyone looking for a taste...
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 21/03/2025
Hey, that's MTJA's Marla Cichowski on TV talking about pet friendly places to visit in Illinois. Let's go! abc7chicago.com/post/pet-fri...
abc7chicago.com
Pet-friendly vacation spots in Illinois for Spring Break | See list
Here are some pet-friendly Spring Break spots in Illinois!
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 21/03/2025
It's always a good time to visit Philadelphia and experience the sites where the United States was created nearly 250 years ago. MTJA's Randy Mink shows you how to manage your trip for the best journey possible. leisuregrouptravel.com/top-historic...
leisuregrouptravel.com
Top 10 Historical Attractions in Philadelphia
Bursting with reminders of America’s past, Philadelphia beckons history buffs with both iconic crowd-pleasers and off-the-radar gems like the Masonic Temple
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 20/03/2025
Fargo North Dakota - as much fun as Hollywood makes it look. www.loopnorth.com/news/fargo02...
loopnorth.com
Fargo: Unique charm and quirky culture 'north of normal'
Its enterprising spirit and artsy vibe may surprise you.
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
Travel Time @travellovers.bsky.social · 19/03/2025
Redwood National park ,California, United States
A man in the woods.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 18/03/2025
MTJA's Randy Mink recently visited Istanbul Turkiye and loved every minute. If you go, he recommends you stay at the Pera Palace Hotel. leisuregrouptravel.com/the-pera-pal...
leisuregrouptravel.com
The Pera Palace Hotel: Echoes of the Past Enchant Istanbul Guests
The Pera Palace Hotel, in business since the late 19th century, retains its Old World panache, captivating patrons with elite amenities and Belle Epoque charm
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 17/03/2025
☘️Happy St. Patrick's Day! ☘️If you're looking for an Irish specialist to plan your trip to the Emerald Isle, MTJA's Jody Halsted is your best source. Check out her site irelandfamilyvacations.com
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Home - Ireland Family Vacations
Ireland Family Vacations - exceptional advice for your magical Ireland vacation. Ireland travel tips, custom Ireland itineraries, and tips for visiting Ireland with kids.
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Reposted by Midwest Travel Journalists Association
Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 16/03/2025
For those planning big family reunions this summer, or any other family travel, MTJA's Randy Mink encourages you to look toward North Dakota. He says it "brims with possibilities." Let's go! destinationreunions.com/north-dakota...
destinationreunions.com
North Dakota Brims with Possibilities for Family Groups
Reunion planners can be assured that all generations will find plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to fill their days in the Bismarck-Mandan metro area
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 16/03/2025
For those planning big family reunions this summer, or any other family travel, MTJA's Randy Mink encourages you to look toward North Dakota. He says it "brims with possibilities." Let's go! destinationreunions.com/north-dakota...
destinationreunions.com
North Dakota Brims with Possibilities for Family Groups
Reunion planners can be assured that all generations will find plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to fill their days in the Bismarck-Mandan metro area
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 15/03/2025
Do you like caves? going underground for adventure. MTJA's Susan Pollack was one of several writers contributing to this story on Cave Adventures. www.newsweek.com/readerschoic...
newsweek.com
Best Cave Adventure
What mysteries await below our feet? Discover for yourself by visiting one of these marvelous cave or cavern adventures.
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Midwest Travel Journalists Association @traveljournalists.bsky.social · 15/03/2025
If you love books, and we do, you will love a night at the Algonquin Hotel in New York. MTJA's Randy Mink calls it a literary landmark. leisuregrouptravel.com/new-yorks-al...
leisuregrouptravel.com
New York’s Algonquin Hotel: A Literary Landmark
Just a hop, skip and jump from the lights of Broadway, this venerable hostelry in Midtown Manhattan has welcomed some of the brightest minds in New York City
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