Travel Blog

🚂 Why Train Travel Might Be the Most Underrated Joyride in America Let’s bust a myth right out of the station: train travel isn’t just for European backpackers or vintage movie buffs. In fact, hopping aboard a train might just be the most relaxing, scenic, and soul-satisfying way to explore the U.S.—especially if you’re craving a slower pace, a window seat to wonder, and zero baggage fees (looking at you, airlines). Whether you're planning a girls’ getaway, a solo soul-search, or a cozy couple’s escape, here’s why train travel deserves a spot on your itinerary: 🌄 1. The Journey Is the Destination Unlike planes that whisk you above the clouds or cars that demand your full attention, trains let you see the country. Think rolling vineyards, misty mountains, sleepy towns, and golden fields—all from a wide window with a cup of coffee in hand. It’s like watching a living postcard unfold in real time. Bonus: no need to navigate, refuel, or reroute. Just sit back and let the rhythm of the rails do its thing. 🧘‍♀️ 2. Stress-Free Vibes, All Aboard No TSA lines. No middle seats. No “your gate has changed for the third time” announcements. Train stations are often centrally located, boarding is a breeze, and you can arrive minutes—not hours—before departure. Once on board? Stretch out. Walk around. Grab a snack from the café car. Or just curl up with a book and let the gentle sway lull you into a state of pure travel zen. 🧳 3. Pack What You Want (Within Reason) Most trains have generous baggage allowances—often two carry-ons and two checked bags for free. That means you can bring your favorite boots and that extra bottle of wine from Napa without playing suitcase Tetris. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Built-In Bonding Time Train travel is surprisingly social. Whether you're catching up with your besties over wine in the observation car or striking up a convo with a fellow traveler, there’s something about the shared rhythm of the ride that invites connection. Planning a girls’ trip? A train car becomes your mobile lounge. No one’s stuck driving, and everyone gets to enjoy the ride. 🌎 5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly Trains are one of the most sustainable ways to travel, with a lower carbon footprint than flying or driving. And with flexible fares, rail passes, and discounts for students, seniors, and groups, it can be surprisingly affordable—especially when you factor in the savings on gas, parking, and hotel nights (hello, overnight sleeper cars!). 🚫 6. No Sketchy Pit Stops Required Let’s be honest: road trips can be fun… until someone needs a bathroom break in the middle of nowhere. Train travel skips the whole “seedy gas station” and “greasy spoon with one Yelp star” experience. Onboard restrooms? Clean and accessible. Café car? Stocked with snacks, drinks, and actual tables. Better yet bring your own picnic! You can sip wine, nibble on cheese, and never once wonder if the bathroom key is attached to a hubcap. 💡 Train Travel Tip: Try Your Luck with Amtrak’s Bid Up Feeling fancy? Amtrak’s Bid Up program lets you name your price to upgrade to Business Class or a Roomette. After booking your ticket, you might get an email inviting you to bid for an upgrade. If your offer wins, you’ll enjoy extra space, priority boarding, and other perks—without paying full price. It’s like travel roulette, but with legroom and free coffee. ✨ Final Boarding Thoughts Train travel invites you to slow down, look out the window, and fall in love with the in-between. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about rediscovering the joy of the journey itself. So next time you're planning a trip—whether it’s a weekend escape to a charming small town or a cross-country adventure—consider trading the fast lane for the rail line. Your future self (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.

Holiday layovers (or layovers in general) in the U.S. don’t have to be a travel nightmare. With the right mindset—and the right airport—you can turn that in-between time into a moment of joy, discovery, or at least a decent meal. Whether you’re stuck for two hours or six, here’s how to make the most of your layover without losing your holiday cheer. 🛫 1. Pick a Layover-Friendly Airport (If You Have a Choice) Some U.S. airports are practically destinations in themselves. If you’re booking flights with a layover, aim for one of these traveler-approved gems: San Diego International (SAN): Wine bar, 36 restaurants, and easy access to downtown beaches Denver International (DEN): Art installations, outdoor terraces, and 500+ shops & restaurants Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP): High passenger satisfaction, comfy seating, and local eats Seattle-Tacoma (SEA): Pacific Northwest charm, live music, and great dining Austin-Bergstrom (AUS): Local BBQ, live music, and a laid-back vibe Nashville International (BNA): Close to downtown, hotel access, and Southern hospitality Myth to bust: All layovers are stressful. Not true—some airports are so well-designed, you’ll wish your flight was delayed. 🎒 2. Pack Smart for the Pause Your carry-on is your layover lifeline. Include: Portable charger (outlets are competitive real estate) Cozy layers (terminal temps are unpredictable) Reusable water bottle (hydration stations are everywhere now) Snacks (bonus points for festive treats) Entertainment (downloaded shows, podcasts, or a holiday read) 🧘‍♀️ 3. Recharge Your Body and Brain Seek out quiet zones, lounges, or even nap pods. Many airports offer: Meditation rooms (SEA, DEN) Spa services (MSP, SFO) Family play areas (DEN has five!) Sharon’s tip : Use apps like LoungeReview to find hidden gems for rest and relaxation. 🍷 4. Taste the Region Skip the generic food court. Try local flavors: BBQ in Austin (AUS) Seafood chowder in Boston (BOS) Craft beer in Portland (PDX) Gumbo in New Orleans (MSY) Snap pics, rate dishes, and share your finds—your readers will love the foodie angle. 🏙️ 5. Got Time? Explore Nearby If your layover is 6+ hours and the airport is near the city, consider a quick excursion: San Diego (SAN): Beaches and harbor views are minutes away Washington D.C. (DCA): Monuments and museums via Metro Nashville (BNA): Honky-tonks and hot chicken just 7 miles out Pro move : Set alarms and leave buffer time for security and boarding. 🎁 6. Be the Holiday Hero Use the downtime to: Wrap gifts (some airports offer gift-wrapping stations) Write postcards Pick up local souvenirs Organize travel photos for your blog or socials ✨ Final Boarding Thought Holiday layovers in the U.S. don’t have to be a drag. With a little prep and a playful mindset, they can become part of the adventure. So next time you’re stuck between flights, channel your inner travel elf and make the most of the moment.

Let’s be honest: sometimes travel feels like a competitive sport. You’re dodging selfie sticks in Rome, elbowing your way through Times Square, and wondering why your “relaxing getaway” requires a spreadsheet and a whistle. Enter townsizing—the travel trend that says, “Let’s chill.” It’s about swapping chaos for charm, crowds for cozy, and overpriced lattes for locally brewed magic. 🏡 What Is Townsizing? Townsizing means choosing small towns over big cities. It’s not a downgrade—it’s a glow-up for your sanity. These places are packed with personality, easy to explore, and often come with free parking (yes, really). ✨ Why Townsizing Works Less Stress: No traffic jams, no mile-long museum lines, no existential dread from trying to “do it all.” Friendly Vibes: Locals might actually talk to you—and not just to upsell a gondola ride. Unique Finds: Think antique shops, mom-and-pop diners, and the kind of general store that sells both fudge and fishing bait. Budget-Friendly: Your wallet will thank you. So will your therapist. Easy to Navigate: You won’t need a metro map, a backup battery, and a sherpa to get around. 🗺️ How to Townsize Your Next Trip Look Nearby: That cute town you always pass on the way to somewhere else? Go there. Pick One or Two: No need to cram five towns into one weekend. This isn’t a scavenger hunt. Skip the Chains: Eat where the locals eat. Bonus points if the menu includes pie. Ask Around: Locals know where the good stuff is. And they’re usually happy to share. Keep It Loose: Let the town surprise you. Your itinerary doesn’t need to be laminated. 🧳 Mini Townsizing Itineraries for Every Kind of Traveler Whether you're chasing pie, peace, or pet-friendly patios, these bite-sized itineraries are proof that small towns deliver big joy. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun Town : Glen Rose, Texas Trip Type : Weekend getaway Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park (yes, actual dino tracks!) Day 2: Explore Fossil Rim Wildlife Center on a drive-through safari Lunch: Burgers at a local diner with milkshakes that require two hands Bonus: Easy parking, walkable downtown, and zero need for noise-canceling headphones 🍷 Food & Wine Lovers Town : Carlton, Oregon Trip Type : Overnight escape Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Wine tasting at boutique vineyards (no tour buses here) Dinner: Farm-to-table feast at a cozy bistro Day 2: Stroll through town, grab pastries, and stock up on local cheese Bonus: Everything’s within walking distance—sip, snack, repeat 🚗 Scenic Road Trippers Town : Ely, Minnesota Trip Type : 2-day nature escape Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Drive the Echo Trail for forest views and lake stops Day 2: Visit the International Wolf Center (howl optional) Lunch: Picnic by Shagawa Lake with sandwiches from a local deli Bonus: No traffic, no tolls, just trees and tranquility 🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Calm Town : Bisbee, Arizona Trip Type : Long weekend Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Settle into a quirky inn with vintage vibes Day 2: Browse art galleries and sip coffee at a bookshop café Day 3: Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic hills Bonus: Zero pressure to “do it all”—just do what feels good 🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures Town : Brevard, North Carolina Trip Type : 3-day retreat Itinerary Highlights : Day 1: Hike dog-friendly trails in Pisgah National Forest Day 2: Visit downtown shops with water bowls and treat jars Day 3: Grab brunch on a patio where your pup is treated like royalty Bonus: Plenty of green space, friendly locals, and tail-wagging approval 🧳 How Bridge2Getaways Travel Planning Services can help you with Townsizing As a travel advisor, townsizing is my jam. I help clients ditch the pressure of “doing it all” and embrace the joy of “doing just enough.” Whether you want a weekend escape with wine and waffles or a low-key road trip with scenic stops and snack breaks, I’ll craft a plan that’s: Tailored to your vibe (not someone else’s Instagram feed) Clear and easy to follow (no decoder ring required) Packed with local flavor (and maybe actual flavors—hello, bakery recs) Flexible and fun (because travel should feel like a treat, not a chore) I also make sure your trip is accessible, stress-free, and full of those “I didn’t expect to love this so much” moments. Townsizing isn’t just a trend—it’s a mindset. And I’m here to make it effortless. Want help townsizing your next trip? I’ve got itineraries, insider tips, and a knack for turning “I just need a break” into “That was the best weekend ever.” Let’s plan something delightfully small together. 🧭

Master the Art of Layering 🍂 Layer Like You Mean It: My Go-To Fall Combo Fall weather loves a good plot twist and when it comes to fall city trips, layering isn’t just smart—it’s a style adventure. I always start with my trusty Foxy Tunic Cami from Torrid* . It’s smooth, stretchy, and the perfect base layer that keeps things comfy without bulk. Next up: a classic long sleeve Henley . It adds warmth and texture and gives that cozy “I’m ready for cider and cobblestone strolls” vibe. Then I toss on a festive T-shirt —something with a pop of color or a cheeky fall slogan. It’s a fun way to show personality and keep the mood light, even if the skies aren’t. To top it off, I reach for a hoodie (hello, snuggly street style) or a rain coat if the forecast looks moody. This combo keeps me warm, dry, and ready for anything—from market browsing to rooftop lounging. Pro tip: All these layers play nice together, so you can peel off or pile on depending on the weather or your next stop. It’s like packing five outfits in one! Go smart, go small - leave the big bag at home 👜 Bag Strategy 101: My Two-Go-To’s for Vacation Days When I’m on vacation, I like to keep things light, flexible, and ready for whatever the day throws at me—whether it’s a charming local market or a historic walking tour. That’s why I always pack two trusty sidekicks : a foldable tote and a compact crossbody . For shopping days or spontaneous finds , I bring a small, light, foldable tote bag that tucks neatly into my pocket. It’s perfect for outings where I might pick up souvenirs, snacks, or that irresistible handmade soap I didn’t know I needed. It weighs next to nothing and saves me from juggling bags or turning down treasures because I “don’t have room.” For more active days —think walking tours, museum hopping, or catching a ferry—I have a small crossbody wallet that keeps my essentials close and my hands free. My favorite? The Clip & Go from Save The Girls* . It’s sleek, secure, and designed for quick access to my phone, cards, and a lip balm or two. I love that the wallet and my phone clip right onto the strap/chain and doubles as a wristlet if I want to switch things up. With this combo I am ready no matter the vibe of the day—whether I’m treasure hunting or trailblazing—and keeps my packing light and my options open. Tech & Travel Must-Haves 🔌 Tech Travel Hacks That Keep Me Charged and Chill When it comes to travel, I like my tech to work with me, not against me. That means no tangled cords, no dead batteries, and no scrambling to find an outlet when I’m halfway through a walking tour. Over time, I’ve fine-tuned a few go-to gadgets that make every trip smoother, smarter, and way less stressful. 🚗 For the Road: Retractable Fast Car Charger If I’m renting a car, I always bring a Retractable Fast Car Charger . It’s compact, tangle-free, and powerful enough to juice up my phone while I’m navigating scenic routes or hopping between historic stops. The retractable cord keeps things neat, and I love that I can charge multiple devices without cluttering the dash. 🏨 For the Stay: Magnetic Wireless Charger Once I’m settled into my lodging, I switch to a Magnetic Wireless Charger . It’s sleek, folds flat for easy packing, and doubles as a phone stand—perfect for checking maps, watching a show, or scrolling through tomorrow’s itinerary while my phone powers up. No fumbling with cables, just drop and charge. 🚶‍♀️ For the Go: Slim Power Bank For days packed with walking, tours, and spontaneous detours, I rely on a small, slim, lightweight power bank . It slips into my pocket without adding bulk and gives me peace of mind when I’m out and about. Whether I’m waiting for a rideshare or tracking down the best bakery in town, I know my phone won’t quit before I do. 📱 Favorite Apps: Map + Munchies My digital map app is my lifeline—especially when I’ve pinned all the must-see spots, hidden gems, and restroom breaks. And when hunger hits? Yelp* is my go-to. I use it to find local favorites, read reviews, and make sure I’m not missing out on the best bites in town. These 3 little hero hacks make city vacation life smoother—and more fun. *Disclaimer: I mention products in this post simply because I use and love them—they’re part of my personal travel routine. I’m not paid, sponsored, or compensated in any way for these mentions. Just sharing what works for me in hopes it helps you pack with confidence!

Let’s face it: life moves fast, and sometimes you just need to hit pause and catch your breath. But when it comes to taking time off, there’s more than one way to recharge your batteries—and each option brings its own flavor of fun (and challenges!). Staycation: Max Relax, Minimal Hassle Ever dreamed of being on vacation... without packing a single suitcase or braving airport security? Welcome to the staycation! This is all about swapping hotel room keycards for the comfort of your own home. No flight delays, no rental cars, no wallet-emptying expenses—just your favorite PJs, your own coffee mug, and maybe a local spot you’ve always meant to check out. But heads up: your to-do list might try to crash the party! Home can be full of sneaky chores and half-finished projects. The trick? Shut out the distractions, and don’t feel guilty about putting your feet up. The Classic Vacation: Pack Your Bags and Let’s Go! Craving that “see you later, real world!” feeling? The traditional vacation is your golden ticket. Think new cities, sandy beaches, fresh mountain air—whatever calls your name. You’ll be racking up memories (and maybe a few souvenirs), totally free from your regular routine. Of course, adventures like these aren’t always cheap. Airfare, hotels, eating out, and activities can quickly add up. Plus, coordinating logistics can be its own type of workout (I can help with that!). Still, it’s hard to beat the thrill of a true escape. The ‘Backyard’ Vacation: The Best of Both Worlds Not sure you want to go far, but craving a little change of scenery? Meet the ‘backyard’ vacation. This mini-getaway style is all about exploring gems just a short drive away—usually within two or three hours from home. Book a cozy place for a night or two, try out a cute nearby town, or soak in some nature. You’ll get that “I’m away from it all” feeling, minus the travel headaches and big price tags—and you won’t be tempted to fold laundry on your day off! No matter how you like to unwind—whether you’re a homebody, a globe-trotter, or somewhere in between—there’s a perfect way to take a break. So go ahead: pick your adventure and make the most of your time off! Choosing the Right Escape Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal needs, budget, and ability to disconnect from everyday life. If finances are tight, a staycation or local trip can still offer meaningful rest and enjoyment. For those seeking complete separation from routine—and if resources allow—a longer vacation might be just what you need. The key is to be intentional about setting boundaries, whether that means ignoring your to-do list during a staycation, or carefully budgeting for travel to avoid post-vacation stress. Tips for a Successful Break, Whatever You Choose Staycations: Time off can be used similarly to a vacation. Scheduling enjoyable activities or relaxation and temporarily setting aside daily responsibilities, just as you would if you were away, may create a sense of escape. Traditional Vacations: I recommend planning well in advance and creating a travel budget. Consider traveling during off-peak times or exploring alternative accommodations to help stretch your funds further. I can help you find the right fit. ‘Backyard’ Vacations: Let’s discover local destinations you’ve never explored. Booking a night or two away—even nearby—can truly enhance your sense of escape. By using my help to coordinate your short getaway you can maximize value and really set the mood as a true vacation. I can recommend hidden gems nearby, suggest unique experiences, and help coordinate your short getaway to maximize value and enjoyment. In the end, taking time for yourself—whether at home, abroad, or somewhere in between—is vital. No matter which option fits your life right now, remember that dedicating time for yourself is essential. With creativity, thoughtful planning, and expert guidance, your next escape can offer the renewal you deserve. If you’d like help designing your perfect getaway—whether abroad or somewhere in between—I’m here to help every step of the way. Ready to start planning? Let’s create your next memorable adventure together. Contact Me