Have you driven from the coast of North Carolina to South Texas? Don’t. From Wilmington to Port Aransas is 1423 miles and takes 23 hours, with no stops. And that’s using Interstates the whole way.
That’s two nights each way in a motel and eating crap food.
Some notes on motels. America is probably unique in offering decent overnight accommodations everywhere. When I book a European trip I use the usual apps and sites to decide on where to stay then book it. I’ve learned to discount reviews of both Germans and English. Both countries offer so many days of vacation that they tend to rate rooms highly based on price, and price alone.
So, in America reviews I note where the reviewers are from. Those from big cities, LA, NYC, Chicago and Boston, among others tend to get more of my attention.
Here’s a brief rundown of motels we look for.
Hilton Garden Inn. Always clean. Offers a full bar and usually breakfast and dinner. But watch out, breakfast is $12 and dinner is priced from the menu. $115-$130
Hampton Inn. Many of these are getting tired but still offer comfortable beds and bedding. $110-$125
Holiday Inn Express. Unless you book direct you don’t get a free breakfast. And like Garden Inn there is frequently a full bar and restaurant. $120-$140
Best Western was recommended a quarter century ago by Baby Jane. While traveling in Europe she noted that BW’s seemed to have the best locations. Much of this was due to BW offering their reservation service to family run hotels in foreign capitals. $65-$100
Some apps we use on road trips: iExit. Love this one. The app finds you on the intestate and tells you what is available at subsequent exits. Even gives current gas prices.
TripAdvisor. Check motel ratings, find an AirBNB, and read about attractions of almost every town and city.
Rome to Rio. Wherever you want directions this is your app. Go by train, bus, car.
Hotel Tonight. After noon hotels drop prices. Have had mixed results.
Kinect Light. It tracks you while walking in a strange city making it easier to get home.
Mapquest and Waze are both good with each offering something unique. I do get tired of announcements from Waze.
During the next few days I’ll zero in to America’s road food.
