Category: Travel Journal
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AI Travel Planning: The Good, The Meh, and the Almost-Magic
Can AI really plan a better trip? After testing ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI models on a Burgundy vacation, I found they’re surprisingly good at building itineraries and weather forecasts—but they’re no substitute for local research, good judgment, or the instincts of an experienced traveler. Continue Reading →
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The Long Way to Lyon
Two cancelled planes, four airline agents, and one creative French train booking — this is how we finally made it to Lyon. Here’s what millions of miles of travel experience taught us about pushing back, staying calm, and finding the silver lining when your trip falls apart at the gate. Continue Reading →
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Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Road Trip Stop 3 — Lafayette & Acadiana
Final stop on my Gulf Coast Mardi Gras road trip is Lafayette and Cajun Country. Parades and Cajun history in Lafayette; small-town festivals and local music in Mamou and Eunice; following the boudin trail with fresh pork cracklins at the end. Continue Reading →
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Packing Advice from a Retired Road Warrior
Packing rules for retired travelers change, and not just because trips are longer. Updates to carry-on packing rules with 3 new rules road warriors never needed Continue Reading →
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Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Road Trip Stop 2 — New Orleans
Stop 2 of our Gulf Coast Mardi Gras road trip drops us into New Orleans for parades, oysters, king cake, and a little parade-weather luck. We revisit old favorites like Pêche and Cochon Butcher. Includes parade strategy, neighborhood notes, and where to eat and drink. Continue Reading →
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Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Road Trip Stop 1 — Mobile
First stop on a Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Road Trip: Mobile, Alabama, where they throw full boxes of Moon Pies at your head and claim they invented the whole thing before New Orleans. Three-generation families working parade routes like pros, krewe barn parties, and a rainy Sunday hunt for the best king cake. Continue Reading →
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TravelCommons Redux — Same Suitcase, Different Traveler
After wrapping up the podcast with Episode #200, TravelCommons is back — in writing this time. With retirement replacing road warrior life, Mark will balance destination stories with advice about trip logistics that actually matters. He leans into serendipity, shares examples from Maine and Hungary trip planning, and lays out his future plans for the blog. Continue Reading →
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Things I’m Recommending Right Now (Summer 2024)
Here are the travel and food recommendations I’ve been giving for quick trips to Nashville, Louisville, and Memphis… and a longer one to Oaxaca. Continue Reading →