If you are curious why this site was created, it’s because I was frustrated with reports from others on how to explore a town. As much as I appreciate shows about various places to eat, and great places to explore for their beauty, I wanted to see more about each town.

It’s possible that there is just one wonderful restaurant and nothing else to explore in a town, but that seems quite unlikely. If you consider a home purchase and want to spend your golden years in one place, you really need more information. It’s likely why you hear of people visiting the same place year after year on vacation.

After our first trip where we really explored Alpena, there was just so much we thought about. Here’s a short list:

1. Walkability for downtown.

2. The views and things to do outside the city limits.

3. Restaurants, restaurants, restaurants.

4. Cleanliness.

5. Affordability.

6. Hospitals and doctors.

7. Shopping, from downtown’s cuteness to grocery stores.

8. The library, arts and other entertainment.

9. Is there a Costco (seriously!)?

10. Most importantly, the people. Do you fit?

This may feel like you did in your teens, when you were choosing what college to attend. You have to think through so many details that not only meet your criteria to allow you to live within your means, but also how well you’ll fit in… all the same concerns and insecurities could come flooding right back!