5 minute read
Renew Your Spirits With A Road Trip
RENEW YOUR SPIRITS WITH A ROAD TRIP
PLACES YOU DIDN’T REALIZE YOU SHOULD GO.
Over the years the red cabooses of The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant in Ronks, Pennsylvania were painted bright colors to represent classic railroads across the United States.
Ahhhh, do you feel it? That sense of rebirth and hope; the inkling to embrace something new. In the spring, that feeling is everywhere if we take time to notice. As the world around us begins to renew itself, what a great time for us to do the same, treating ourselves with something new and different— a vacation!
Now more than ever we may be looking for chances to see and do things we’ve never done before. We’ve been reminded that our time is precious, and we should celebrate it. Today’s Transitions spoke with Beth Chaffin, travel specialist with Unlimited Travel Consultants, who shared some unique trip ideas for those who are willing to trade in their sunscreen and beach towel for some adventure.
“A vacation refreshes our spirits, but what I think of these days is how to foster a renewed sense of hope. We’ve had a rough few years, but we can have the new adventures of our dreams. There is a lot going on, and many wonderful and unusual places to go,” Beth says. Here are just a few possibilities.
THE SHADY DELL IN BISBEE, ARIZONA
Photo by Kelley and Sergio Photography
Perhaps you fancy a road trip on historic Highway 80, which spans from Savannah, Georgia to San Diego, California. In the 1920s, Bisbee, Arizona had a trailer park that served as a camping and resting spot for those traveling the long road. In keeping with that heritage, The Shady Dell Vintage Trailer Court has been in operation for more than 30 years. Their uniquely decorated trailers are practical, functional, and retro chic. Dot’s Diner is well known for its delicious fare. This is a laid-back, modernized trip to the past that will engage couples and families alike. And you can get there on an airplane if the idea of that long road trip doesn’t bring joy to your heart. theshadydell.com
– BETH CHAFFIN
THE WISTERIA TREE HOUSE CABIN IN DORA, MISSOURI
For those who want to relax and revel in the beauty of the Ozarks, Beth recommends The Wisteria Tree House Cabin in Dora, Missouri. Nestled high in the trees, some might choose to curl up with a good book by the fireplace or grab a pair of binoculars to observe the scenery and wildlife in the area. For those seeking more adventure, options such as hiking, fly-fishing, kayaking, and canoeing abound. “This trip can be a grand outdoor adventure or a peaceful commune with nature. It can be both of those things all at once. At the end of every day, you get to sleep in a treehouse–your very own cabin in the sky,” Beth says. treehousecabins.com/missouri-wisteria-cabin
L’BANCA ALBERGO IN LAKE ARTHUR, LOUISIANA
Tucked into the Louisiana countryside is L’Banca Albergo (The Bank Hotel) where the motto is May All Who Enter as Guests Leave as Friends. Named for its original purpose, this historic site was once a bank. Now a boutique hotel with eight luxury suites, L’Banca offers a family-friendly and welcoming experience. Just a quick walk from the hotel brings you to a sandy beach, complete with playgrounds and picnic areas. Visitors can choose from area highlights such as the Bayou Rum Distillery, Lake Charles, the Tupper Museum, and authentic southern cuisine. For the more adventurous traveler, there is even the chance to hold a baby alligator! labankhotel.com
THE RED CABOOSE MOTEL & RESTAURANT IN RONKS, PENNSYLVANIA
All Aboard! If you’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to stay on a train, the Red Caboose Motel in Ronks, Pennsylvania can fulfill that wish. The individually decorated caboose cars have been modified to accommodate individuals, couples, and families large and small. They even offer a honeymoon caboose. Travelers sleep and dine on the train for a very authentic experience. Ronks, nearby Strasburg, and other surrounding towns in Lancaster County are the heart of Amish country. Visitors can shop, tour, and immerse themselves in Amish tradition, history, and culture. The town is also home to the famous Gospel Jubilee, which hopes to open for performances this year. There is a great deal to see and do in Ronks. “It’s a simple thing, but I’m a fan of the old Nickelodeon player piano that sits on the front porch at the Red Caboose,” Beth says. “It makes me happy.” redcaboosemotel.com
Did you know? Travelers with autism can request accommodations that make their trips more pleasant for them. Beth, who is also a Certified Autism Travel Professional, knows that travel apprehension can be a factor for people with autism. “I had a client a few years back who never took family trips because her grandson had autism. This doesn’t have to be a barrier to creating family vacation memories. I want people to know they can seek agents like me who are certified to help.”
By Megan S. Willman | Photos submitted
Spring 2022 / TodaysTransitions.com
