So I know that I have been kind of AWOL from my blog lately. It’s partially due to my lack of recent travel. And partially because I wasn’t sure what to write for my 100th post. Nothing seemed exciting enough to be my 100th post, but then I realized I do have things to report. Since my Amtrak cross-country trip I have moved into an apartment, began working again, picked a law school, celebrated Christmas with my family, and skied & biked many many miles/kilometers.
I also never really wrapped up my trip for you. I truly enjoyed the seven-week journey. I experience seven great cities (some more than once) and traveled through many others. I saw many different sides to the United States and enjoyed plenty of exploring, relaxing, and in transit. In fact, I spent 192 hours on the train, which translates to eight whole days spent on the train, and included 11 nights spent on the train.
Here are a few travel tips that I can offer:
· If you look like you know where you are going, people will think you do. People asked me for directions in three different cities. Also practice “Stranger Danger.” If a street looks creepy, find another way.
· Pack light.
I can’t emphasize this enough.
I only took one carry-one and this gave me more flexibility than I could have imagined.
This size bag was also possible through the use of
compression bags.
I wish REI was paying me for this endorsement, but they are not.
· Be flexible. Be willing to try new things. Have a plan B when the train is nine hours late. Carry an extra camera battery. Pack extra snacks.
· Keep in touch. One of the best parts of my trip was visiting my friends from all of the country. Another great part was sharing everything when I got back home. Also, thanks to everyone who read my blog along the way and to those who left wonderful comments (here’s looking at you, LaMar).
Just remember, the next adventure is right around the corner.