Road trips with friends = an absolute blast! Road trips alone = longest drive ever.
I went to college 6 hours away from home, so I mastered the art of solo road trips. I've learned all the tricks to making time pass quickly, how to stay focused and how to make the most of your alone time.
Let's start with the hardest (for me) challenge: Making the time pass quickly. Is it just me or does one road trip minute feel like 20 minutes of regular life? I swear it feels like I could have watched a whole episode of the office in the time it takes me to make it one mile down the highway. The point I'm trying to make is: time crawls by on solo road trips. Or at least it does if you aren't properly prepared!
In college, I didn't have an iPad or smart phone to play movies on, so I used what I had - an old school personal DVD player. And the best part? It played with the lid closed. That means I could plug it into a little outlet converter and an aux cable, put the lid down (so I couldn't watch the screen even if I wanted to - not even a glance!) and put on some of my favorite movies and/or tv shows. I listened to every episode of Gilmore Girls AND Boy Meets World over the course of my college career. I specifically chose those shows because I knew them really, really well. That means I didn't need the visual cues to follow the story line. Win! You could achieve the same effect with a locked phone or iPad screen. Oh, technology.
Next up, try audio books! And no, I'm not sponsored by audible. I personally don't even have an audible account, because I prefer to read books rather than listen to them. However, for the occasional road trip I actually use the app OverDrive. You can check out audiobooks from your local library though the app! And it's free! I think you may just need a library card to check something out. The choices are more limited than on audible, but hey! It's free!
I know what you're thinking - what about music? I actually LOVE music, but I tend not to listen to music while I'm on solo road trips because it makes time pass in increments of 3 or 4 minutes. Each song just takes a few minutes, whereas a TV show passes by in the span of either 20 or 45 minutes depending on the series. That makes the hours fly by! I highly recommend trying it out on your next trip.
Finally, if you find yourself getting a bit tired or unfocused - first off, pull over if you are unsafe. Take a nap and recharge if needed. However, if you just need a pick-me-up, consider this: blast the AC, crank up the music and sing along. I know I said I wasn't big on music, but this is the exception. Go full on sing-a-long! I personally like to do this at night and try to learn the words to a new song. It keeps my brain active and alert - always good when you're driving - and helps keep me alert.
Anyway, those are my top tips on how to have fun on a road trip even without your best friend by your side. Focus on your destination and don't let going alone slow you down!
Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
My Favorite Country?
Every time I talk with friends and family about my travels, inevitably the same question pops up: What country is your favorite? That's such a hard question!!! I've been lucky enough to travel to so many incredible countries, how can I be expected to pick just one?
Let's start with the obvious. The U.S. is my home. It's a beautiful country, and I'm proud to be an American - but no country is perfect. The U.S. is home to gun violence, corrupt politicians and poverty. But it's also home to some of the most gorgeous natural wonders on the planet, beautiful souls and of course, freedom. While U.S. seems like an obvious choice for my FAVORITE country, honestly, it's not the first thing that pops into my head.
My gut response is usually The Netherlands. Sounds random, right? Well, I actually have quite a history with Holland. I moved there when I was just 6 months old, and it's where all of my earliest memories were formed. I remember skating on the canals with friends, riding horses through open fields and riding on the back of my sister's moped to the candy shop. Anytime I visit that country it takes me back. The nostalgia is overwhelming in the best way possible!
But that's not to say that's the only reason I love Holland. I've gone back as an adult several times and my feelings have remained the same. I love that country! The food, the people, the buildings, the museums and history. It's just beautiful. Something about me feels so at home each and every time. Part of it may be because I can (mostly) understand the language. And that's so cool! Unlike when I'm in Spain, I don't feel as though I am directly translating words and phrases in my head. It's more like a dutch person will say something, and I'll just kind of know what they mean. I should probably mention that up until age 6 I spoke more dutch than english. I guess some of that is still clunking around in my head. It's a really cool feeling to be able to follow along as those around you talk... even if I usually don't quite have the words to respond.
Oh and did I mention that Holland is GORGEOUS??
Let's start with the obvious. The U.S. is my home. It's a beautiful country, and I'm proud to be an American - but no country is perfect. The U.S. is home to gun violence, corrupt politicians and poverty. But it's also home to some of the most gorgeous natural wonders on the planet, beautiful souls and of course, freedom. While U.S. seems like an obvious choice for my FAVORITE country, honestly, it's not the first thing that pops into my head.
My gut response is usually The Netherlands. Sounds random, right? Well, I actually have quite a history with Holland. I moved there when I was just 6 months old, and it's where all of my earliest memories were formed. I remember skating on the canals with friends, riding horses through open fields and riding on the back of my sister's moped to the candy shop. Anytime I visit that country it takes me back. The nostalgia is overwhelming in the best way possible!
But that's not to say that's the only reason I love Holland. I've gone back as an adult several times and my feelings have remained the same. I love that country! The food, the people, the buildings, the museums and history. It's just beautiful. Something about me feels so at home each and every time. Part of it may be because I can (mostly) understand the language. And that's so cool! Unlike when I'm in Spain, I don't feel as though I am directly translating words and phrases in my head. It's more like a dutch person will say something, and I'll just kind of know what they mean. I should probably mention that up until age 6 I spoke more dutch than english. I guess some of that is still clunking around in my head. It's a really cool feeling to be able to follow along as those around you talk... even if I usually don't quite have the words to respond.
Oh and did I mention that Holland is GORGEOUS??
Thursday, February 15, 2018
This Valentine's Day, Fall in Love With Travel - Single or Not!
February means it's the season of love, what with Valentine's Day being the main focus of the month. I thought I'd dive into why you should fall in love with travel - whether you're single or not!
Why I LOVE to Travel - and Always Have
I'm still a twenty-something, but I'm "settled down" married now. However, that doesn't mean I don't still travel. My love of exploring a new city and going on an adventure is something that has always been near and dear to my heart. I traveled constantly as a young child with my family, and sometimes it feels like I've just never stopped. I love to travel with friends and family, but I definitely have never been put off by traveling solo. In fact, I've backpacked through Italy for a few weeks completely on my own. It was one of the most exciting and empowering experiences of my life! Anytime I'm traveling, solo or with others, I'm learning, growing and exploring - my 3 favorite things! I'm lucky to have found a partner not only in life but also in my travels. I know my husband is always up for some adventure, but if the right opportunity presented itself I wouldn't have any problems traveling on my own again.
Don't Let a Lack of Travel Buddy Stop You!
Solo travel sounds scary, but I promise you it's not that bad and is absolutely worth it! As long as you are cautious and take a few safety precautions, there is nothing to keep you from seeing the world. Traveling by yourself is one of the most empowering thing you can ever do. You learn to be self-reliant and nothing else compares! Don't sit back and wait for someone to come along who would be willing to travel with you, take control of your life and do it for yourself!
Make it Happen
So many people live their whole life wondering "what if?" Obviously, travel is not something that everyone can afford to just dive into on a whim. It often takes careful planning and determined saving. Great things take time and hard work, but as someone who has lived a life full of beautiful experiences, I can tell you that it's worth the fight.
If you need a little help in the planning process, I'd love to help! MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com
Why I LOVE to Travel - and Always Have
I'm still a twenty-something, but I'm "settled down" married now. However, that doesn't mean I don't still travel. My love of exploring a new city and going on an adventure is something that has always been near and dear to my heart. I traveled constantly as a young child with my family, and sometimes it feels like I've just never stopped. I love to travel with friends and family, but I definitely have never been put off by traveling solo. In fact, I've backpacked through Italy for a few weeks completely on my own. It was one of the most exciting and empowering experiences of my life! Anytime I'm traveling, solo or with others, I'm learning, growing and exploring - my 3 favorite things! I'm lucky to have found a partner not only in life but also in my travels. I know my husband is always up for some adventure, but if the right opportunity presented itself I wouldn't have any problems traveling on my own again.
Don't Let a Lack of Travel Buddy Stop You!
Solo travel sounds scary, but I promise you it's not that bad and is absolutely worth it! As long as you are cautious and take a few safety precautions, there is nothing to keep you from seeing the world. Traveling by yourself is one of the most empowering thing you can ever do. You learn to be self-reliant and nothing else compares! Don't sit back and wait for someone to come along who would be willing to travel with you, take control of your life and do it for yourself!
Make it Happen
So many people live their whole life wondering "what if?" Obviously, travel is not something that everyone can afford to just dive into on a whim. It often takes careful planning and determined saving. Great things take time and hard work, but as someone who has lived a life full of beautiful experiences, I can tell you that it's worth the fight.
If you need a little help in the planning process, I'd love to help! MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com
Thursday, February 8, 2018
Why I love the Olympics So Darn Much
The Olympics kick off today, and I could NOT be more excited! I look forward to the Olympics and am that person that will stream as many events as humanly possible. I love just about every event - summer or winter! But since it's the winter Olympics coming up, I must say I am most excited for curling. Yes, curling. It's so soothing to watch! And the pant! Have you seen their pants? I'm a fan. There are so so so many reasons to love the Olympics, but here are my top 3.
International Unity
As someone who loves nothing more than traveling the globe, I must say I love any event that brings the world together - namely Olympics and the World Cup. In my experience, it's SO fun to compete internationally and make friends from all over the world - I can only imagine competing on the world's largest stage! Athletes from every corner of the globe have been training their whole lives for that moment, and we get to watch it unfold! The incredible highs and lows. I love it.
Athletic Prowess
As a life-long athlete, I have tremendous respect for each and every one of those athletes. The amount of hard work and sacrifice they've poured into their sport is tremendous. I competed as a college athlete and that was intense. I can only imagine what it takes to make it to the big leagues. The olympics is the place to go if you want to see the best of the best.
Just Plain Fun
I'm the person who rallies around my favorite events and hosts all-out viewing parties. I absolutely love the excitement, the thrill, the camaraderie! Plain and simple, the Olympics are so. much. fun.
No event too small, I'll be watching from start to finish. Will you?
Friday, February 2, 2018
Why I Love Lonely Planet
I've found that when it comes to trip planning, there seems to be an endless supply of travel resources. The next step is trying to determine which resources are trustworthy and worth using. While I can't give you tips on every travel site out there, I can offer my two cents on LonelyPlanet and LonelyPlanet.com.
One Stop Shop
Lonely Planet has EVERYTHING! You can book insurance, flights, hotel, tours, car rentals and more! If you like to read blog posts, they've got those too! I particularly enjoy their beautiful travel videos. It's just a very well-run site and one I enjoy using. There's even a forum where you can get advice and offer tips and tricks with fellow travelers. Finally, they also have an online shop with guidebooks and phrasebooks galore!
How I Use Lonely Planet
I personally use Lonely Planet for two main things: Activity recommendations and their travel books.
One of the first things I do once I've picked my next trip destination is check it out on LonelyPlanet.com. They have so many great, reputable recommendations! I always look at the top things to do, best restaurants and places to stay. I feel a little safer and reassured knowing that the things I'm doing have the Lonely Planet seal of approval. I have never yet been led astray!
I own a zillion print versions of Lonely Planet books on everywhere from Portugal to Spain to South Africa to SouthEast Asia! I swear by them. It's always my first recommendation to anyone traveling somewhere new. Right now, I'm planning for the grand canyon, and sure enough! I am using a Lonely Planet book to help me plan!
Try it For Yourself!
You don't have to take my word for it. I definitely encourage you to try Lonely Planet out for yourself. You may find certain features really help you out, while others aren't really for you. And that's OK! Planning a trip is complicated and using multiple resources is encouraged.
If you still need a little help planning your trip (or you hate planning and just want to GO!), I'd love to help! Check out my company at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.
One Stop Shop
Lonely Planet has EVERYTHING! You can book insurance, flights, hotel, tours, car rentals and more! If you like to read blog posts, they've got those too! I particularly enjoy their beautiful travel videos. It's just a very well-run site and one I enjoy using. There's even a forum where you can get advice and offer tips and tricks with fellow travelers. Finally, they also have an online shop with guidebooks and phrasebooks galore!
How I Use Lonely Planet
I personally use Lonely Planet for two main things: Activity recommendations and their travel books.
One of the first things I do once I've picked my next trip destination is check it out on LonelyPlanet.com. They have so many great, reputable recommendations! I always look at the top things to do, best restaurants and places to stay. I feel a little safer and reassured knowing that the things I'm doing have the Lonely Planet seal of approval. I have never yet been led astray!
I own a zillion print versions of Lonely Planet books on everywhere from Portugal to Spain to South Africa to SouthEast Asia! I swear by them. It's always my first recommendation to anyone traveling somewhere new. Right now, I'm planning for the grand canyon, and sure enough! I am using a Lonely Planet book to help me plan!
Try it For Yourself!
You don't have to take my word for it. I definitely encourage you to try Lonely Planet out for yourself. You may find certain features really help you out, while others aren't really for you. And that's OK! Planning a trip is complicated and using multiple resources is encouraged.
If you still need a little help planning your trip (or you hate planning and just want to GO!), I'd love to help! Check out my company at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.
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