Tom Manus and Kristi Flick Manus form a dynamic husband-and-wife travel writing team, carving a unique niche in the industry with their authentic, backroad-focused storytelling. Specialized in uncovering the often-overlooked wonders and historic gems found on America’s two-lane highways, they expertly blend local culture and history into compelling narratives.
Their professional credentials include co-authoring two acclaimed books: Secret Wisconsin: A Guide To The Weird, Wonderful, And Obscure and Historic Wisconsin Roadsides: Towns Off the Beaten Path in the Badger State. Tom and Kristi are established freelance travel writers who contribute to various publications. At the same time, their extensive travels and distinctive approach are also documented on their website, www.smalltownplussize.com.
Committed to inspiring spontaneous exploration, their extensive journeys span international destinations and 48 U.S. states, with only Hawaii and the elusive Rhode Island remaining. As active members of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), and the Midwest Travel Network, Tom and Kristi Manus embody the spirit of discovery that the Society of American Travel Writers champions. Their work showcases the idea that the most extraordinary travel experiences are found when one travels without a set agenda.
Tom and Kristi believe spontaneous travel without agendas leads to invaluable experiences. Through their work as travel writers, they inspire others to seek out the unexpected. For example, their adventures have included a peaceful picnic lunch in Glacier National Park, alone surrounded by a grazing elk herd in -18° temperatures, finding a secret path that led to standing alone on an Icelandic glacier, and riding in what’s believed to be the oldest flying Huey helicopter from the Vietnam War. They help followers find their own unique, genuine journeys, minus the stress of logistics, ensuring every trip is truly unforgettable. Follow their adventures on Instagram @TomAndKristiManus and Facebook Small Town Plus Size, and visit their website at smalltownplussize.com to find your authentic experiences.
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things” – Henry Miller
“Once in a while it really hits people that they don’t have to experience the world in the way they have been told to” – Alan Keightley
