Go See Do Explore

One Day in Naples

On July 29, 2024

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The rumbling metro, the chaotic streets, the aroma of sizzling pizza dough – Naples grabs you from the moment you arrive and doesn’t let go. This boisterous city lives life at its own frenetic pace, daring you to get swept up in the beautiful madness of it all. And that’s exactly what we did on our latest Italian adventure.

After dropping our bags at the Airbnb in Naples’ historic Spanish Quarter, we hit the streets for a free walking tour. Our local guide warned us – Naples proudly pushes back against Italy’s love of rules and order. As we wove through the jam-packed lanes of the city center, dodging Vespas and trying not to get separated, we saw exactly what he meant. This place has an infectious, slightly anarchic energy that gets under your skin in the best way.

Inside the Church of Gesù Nuovo

The tour took us to a fascinating juxtaposition of two churches. Separated by the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, the Gothic and Baroque buildings are a study in contrasts. One is starkly unadorned while the other is an exquisitely ornate, active house of worship. We couldn’t resist joining the flow of tourists shaking the hand of the iconic statue of the local doctor who cured so many Neapolitans. Even during Mass, the church hums with life and visitor foot traffic. It’s a place of faith, history, and openness all intertwined.

But you can’t visit Naples without indulging in the food – specifically, the pizza. In a private class, a chef named Danielle taught us the ins and outs of making an authentic Neapolitan pie. We learned to masterfully stretch and toss the dough, creating perfect, pillowy discs for baking in blistering hot wood-fired ovens. The pride Danielle took in his craft was contagious as we watched our margherita pizzas emerge, the crust tantalizingly charred with those coveted leopard spots. You can book your own Neapolitan Pizza Class here!

My Neapolitan Pizza!

The real revelation, though, came in the form of the appetizers – a simple bruschetta made with local San Marzano tomatoes grown in the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, and a plate of piping hot zeppole, fried dough puffs that put doughnuts to shame. We happily devoured both while sipping cold beverages and chatting with our new pizza-making friends.

If you find yourself in Naples, be sure to indulge in a cuoppo – a paper cone overflowing with an assortment of tiny fried delicacies. Ours was filled with bite-sized rice balls, fried dough puffs, mini arancini, and other molten treats that defied description but delighted every taste bud. It’s the perfect street food for fueling you through Naples’ chaotic charm.

Naples may be rough around the edges, but that’s exactly what makes it so vibrant and unforgettable. It’s a city that lives life to the fullest, that celebrates simple pleasures like amazing food and good company. So go ahead and get swept up in the beautiful pandemonium – you may leave a little disheveled, but oh so satisfied.

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about our Italian Adventure, check out our La Dolce Vita Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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Wordless Wednesday: Mt. Etna Smoke

By Ashleigh

On July 24, 2024

In Travel, Wordless Wednesday

Smoke from Mt. Etna

Exploring Mt. Etna: Europe’s Most Active Volcano

By Ashleigh

On July 22, 2024

In Travel

Mt. Etna

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The mere mention of Mount Etna sparks visions of an erupting volcano – a fierce, untamed force of nature. As Europe’s most active volcano, it has been erupting for centuries, a reminder of the raw power simmering beneath our feet. But for the intrepid traveler, Mount Etna presents an irresistible challenge to come face-to-face with one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Getting up close and personal with an active volcano is no simple feat. The journey begins with a twisting drive that climbs ever higher, each turn revealing more of Etna’s magnificent stature. At the parking area, the real adventure starts with a ride on the soaring aerial tram that carries you over craggy lava fields. But that’s just the first ascent – next you’ll board a rugged 4×4 bus to conquer the upper slopes. Finally, you’ll disembark and trek by foot to the crater’s edge, feeling the heat and power radiating from the earth.

Explorers with a volcanologist on Mt. Etna

Standing at the precipice of Mount Etna’s smoldering caldera is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The ground itself seems to smolder underfoot as you gaze across a lunarscape of blackened lava flows. Nearby fumaroles belch steam and sulfurous gases, hinting at the fury contained within. Our guide casually mentioned finding fresh lava in the parking lot that morning – a stark reminder that this giant is very much awake.

For those who crave an even more visceral encounter, guided hikes led by vulcanologists (experts in the study of volcanoes) allow you to venture right up to the lava flows themselves, hardhat and all (above). Don’t be surprised if your adrenaline pumps a bit faster when the ground rumbles beneath your boots.

4x4 buses driving up Mt. Etna

A visit to Mount Etna is more than just your average tourist stop – it’s a chance to witness the incredible forces that shape our planet up close. From the panoramic views high above Sicily to the primal energy pulsing at the crater’s rim, this volcano offers a true adventure for the senses. So seize the opportunity to summit this fiery giant and experience the thrill of nature’s untamed spirit. The wonders of Mount Etna await the bold!

If you plan to visit Mt. Etna for yourself, you do not need to book anything in advance. Tickets for the cable car and 4×4 bus can be purchased at the ticket office in the main parking lot. The view from the end of the cable car is not great, so be sure to buy the ticket that includes the bus and the hike to get a true Etna experience! If you want to venture farther up the mountain, you can purchase your guided hike through Viator!

Standing in a crater on Mt. Etna

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our NEW Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about our Italian Adventure, check out our La Dolce Vita Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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Wordless Wednesday: Acireale At Night

By Ashleigh

On July 17, 2024

In Wordless Wednesday

Acireale at Night

Exploring Eastern Sicily

By Ashleigh

On July 15, 2024

In Travel, Wine Travel

Mediterranean View from Taormina

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From winding roads to volcanic vintages, our Sicilian adventure was a feast for the senses. This sun-drenched island at the toe of Italy’s boot captivated us with its contrasts – ancient ruins cloaked in modern grit, rugged coastlines giving way to sweeping vineyards, and a culinary heritage as bold as the very volcanoes that shape the land.

Our Sicilian exploration began with an “upgrade” to an SUV rental – a mixed blessing on the island’s narrow, twisting village lanes. As one local guide quipped with a smirk, “There are no rules” when driving here. We quickly learned to embrace the organized chaos, asserting our place in Sicily’s self-centered driving universe. Our itinerary took us from the eastern city of Catania along the fertile slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. With our four-wheeled steed, we could freely veer from the tourist trail to uncover the island’s viticultural gems.

Vineyards at Palmento Costanza

The vineyards draped along Mount Etna’s formidable flanks produce wines of uncommon terroir. At Palmento Costanzo, gnarly old vines were trained in the ancient Greek albarello style on stubby “living stakes.” Their pre-phylloxera rootstocks, spared by Etna’s sandy volcanic soils, yield grapes with a storied pedigree.

At Nicosia, a more modern yet artisanal approach ruled. After tasting their stellar volcanic wines, the true showstopper arrived – a decadent spread of local charcuterie, cheeses, fruits, and breads that could sate an army. This was la dolce vita at its finest. When not indulging in Mt. Etna’s finest wines, we sampled Sicily’s coastal cuisine. Simple but sublime, our meals showcased the region’s bounty from air, land, and sea. We reveled in pistachio-studded delicacies, briny seafood fresh from the Mediterranean, and crisp fruity wines from Etna’s lava-enriched soils.

Aci Castello

In seaside Aci Castello, we marveled at the rocks beneath an imposing medieval fortification. Nearby Aci Trezza’s so-called “Cyclops Rocks” evoked Homeric legends. One humble trattoria in the hills served up a feast so authentic, the proprietor gently scolded us for not devouring every last morsel of her “forest cheese” – a unique, honey-laced cheese from the lush slopes of Etna. Even our jet-lagged late-night pizza delivery ranked among the best I’ve ever tasted, the blistered wood-fired crusts beckoning another slice.

Greek City under Catania We meandered through the cobblestone pathways and charming squares of the hilltop town of Taormina (top), we were transported to a bygone era filled with history and culture. From exploring the ancient Greek amphitheater offering panoramic vistas of Mount Etna to browsing the quaint local shops brimming with artisanal treasures, each moment was a discovery of Taormina’s captivating past. The tour not only provided a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage but also allowed us to savor authentic Sicilian cannoli and marvel at the architectural wonders that dotted our path. As we traced the footsteps of generations past, our walking tour of Taormina left an indelible mark, weaving together moments of awe and admiration for this timeless Sicilian gem. You can book your tour of Taormina on Viator!

We finished our Sicilian exploration by diving in Catania’s history. This seaside city’s historic core endured heavy bombardment during WWII, lending a weather-beaten charm to its baroque streetscapes. Below ground, a once-buried ancient Greek settlement – its ruins blackened by Etna’s volcanic stone – stood as a poignant monument to the layered history of this indomitable place.

As we reluctantly departed Catania’s bustling stazione, I reflected on the raw, passionate energy that coursed through every vignette of our Sicilian journey. From the feisty motorists to the sun-drenched vineyards to the soulful, soil-driven cuisine, Sicily seduced us with its fiery spirit. This beguiling island may be just a toe, but it deserves more than a mere dip into its depths.

Sicilian Antipasti

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An Afternoon in Paris

By Ashleigh

On July 8, 2024

In Travel

The Eiffel Tower and the Seine

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The City of Light unveiled her charms to us during a whirlwind layover in Paris. Though our time was short, we seized the opportunity to experience some of the French capital’s most renowned landmarks on foot.

After landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport, we effortlessly navigated the metro system into the city center. Pro tip: make sure your phone’s operating system is fully updated if you plan to use transit apps during your travels. Having to update our phones before utilizing transit slowed us down during our already limited time. The metro whisked us away, our anticipation building with every stop closer to our first destination – the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Glimpsing the wrought-iron lattice piercing the skyline, we hurried toward the famous monument. Though the surrounding gardens were fenced off in preparation for the 2024 Olympics, the tower itself offered ample opportunity for photos. We opted to admire its grandiose architecture from the ground rather than ascending to the top, content to bask in its majesty from the ground.

Arc de Triomphe

We continued our walking tour to the Arc de Triomphe, the imposing triumphal arch in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle. We happened upon a military ceremony unfolding at the base, though its purpose eluded our research efforts. Observing the soldiers added to the enchantment of our short day in Paris.

We continued walking to the Champs-Élysées, this famed boulevard lined with luxury boutiques, cafés and theaters. We meandered along, admiring the Parisian ambiance, until arriving at the Place de la Concorde. Here, the iconic Egyptian obelisk stood sentry, though much of the area was cordoned off for Olympic preparations.

Louvre Gardens

Continuing through the courtyard of the Louvre, we caught a tantalizing glimpse of the museum’s iconic glass pyramids before pressing on toward the River Seine. Our wanderings brought us to the Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands in the river. This small patch of land held particular significance, as it offered an up-close perspective of the beloved Notre Dame Cathedral while it is undergoing extensive renovations in the wake of the 2019 fire.

Construction on Notre Dame as of June 2024

Seeing the progress made in rebuilding of the iconic church was both heartening and surreal. The storied cathedral symbolizes Paris’s resilience and determination to preserve its heritage for future generations. We felt privileged to capture this moment in its lengthy restoration through our lenses.

Our Parisian self-tour concluded on the Île Saint-Louis, a slender island in the Seine just east of the Île de la Cité. As day slipped into evening, we sat at a cafe, raising a glass to the marvels we had witnessed on our that day. Though we had merely skimmed the surface of Paris’ treasures, the afternoon kindled a longing to return. If you are looking for a guided tour for your time in Paris, look no further than Viator!

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our NEW Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. Check out our La Dolce Vita trip report to read more about our Italian Adventure. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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La Dolce Vita: Our Epic Italian Adventure

By Ashleigh

On July 1, 2024

In Travel

Venice at Night

We are back from our epic summer travels, this year we took two and a half weeks to explore Italy from Sicily to Venice. Here is an overview of what is to come in this recap:

Layover in Paris
- Eiffel Tour, Arch de Triomphe, Trivoli Gardens, Louvre Gardens
Catania Area, Sicily
- Etna Wineries
- Free Walking Tour Taormina
- Hiking Mt. Etna
Naples
- Free Walking Tour
- Pizza Making Class
- Archaeology Tour of Pompeii
Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Academia Gallery Tour (Michaelango’s David)
- Duomo Complex
- Tuscany Wine Tour
Bologna
- Market & Food Tour
Venice
- Doge’s Palace
- St. Mark’s Basilica
- Free Walking Tour
- Murano Glass Museum

Crater in Mt. Etna

When planning our Italian odyssey, one of the biggest questions was how to travel between the dazzling cities. Renting a car seemed like overkill since we planned to spend most of our time in cities where the car would have to remain parked. So we decided to embrace the classic mode of Italian transportation – the railway system known as Trenitalia.

Our first Trenitalia experience was the overnight Intercity Notte train from Catania to Naples. As dusk fell, we boarded our private cabin, complete with bunk beds and a sink for freshening up. The gentle rocking of the train soon lulled us into a peaceful slumber…until we awoke to the realization that we were aboard a ferry! The entire train had been loaded onto a boat to cross the Strait of Messina. An utterly unique experience.

Despite the firm mattresses, there was something magical about that overnight journey. We awoke to a traditional Italian breakfast of espresso and pastries, along with an Italian newspaper – a delightful old-world touch.

Market in Bologna

For our other Italian train journeys, we opted for the high-speed Frecciarossa trains in business class. The luxurious reclining seats, complete with trolley service offering snacks and beverages, made the transits between cities an enjoyable experience in themselves.

One tip we cannot emphasize enough: pack light! The narrow aisles and corridors of Italian trains make hauling large suitcases an exercise in frustration. We marveled at the overstuffed bags some tourists lugged around, realizing that our carry-on-sized cases were the way to go, especially when walking from stations to accommodations over cobblestones.

Looking back, our decision to embrace Italy’s iconic rail system was one of the highlights of our trip. Traveling from city to city without the hassles of driving allowed us to soak in the breathtaking scenery whizzing by our window. The trains connected us efficiently while offering a uniquely Italian experience in themselves. It was an adventure getting from here to there, and we relished every mile along the way.

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our NEW Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

Morning in Muir Woods

By Ashleigh

On June 24, 2024

In National Parks & Places, Travel

Light filtering through the trees at Muir Woods

Just outside the city of San Francisco lays a natural sanctuary waiting to be explored – Muir Woods National Monument. Nestled just a short drive away from the city, this verdant forest offered a peaceful retreat from the urban chaos. Join us on a morning hike through the towering redwoods and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. On our recent trip to San Fransisco, we took one morning away from the city to immerse ourselves in the redwood forest.

As the first rays of sunlight peeked over the horizon, we began our journey to Muir Woods. The drive from San Fransisco was a bottleneck and I was worried we weren’t going to make it in time for our entry window into the park. Luckily we made it in time and we were able to relax, step out of the car, and fill our lungs with the crisp morning air, invigorating us for the adventure ahead.

Entering the towering redwoods, we were greeted by a symphony of bird songs and the gentle rustle of leaves. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting a soft glow on the forest floor. The scent of damp earth and pine needles enveloped us, transporting us to a world far removed from the city.

Looking up into the Redwoods at Muir Woods

We set off on the trail, following the winding path that meandered through the ancient forest. The towering redwood trees soared above us, their majestic presence a reminder of the passage of time. Each step brought us closer to the heart of the forest, where a sense of peace and tranquility reigned.

As we hiked deeper into the woods, the sounds of civilization faded away, replaced by the gentle murmur of a nearby stream. The cool, shaded trails offered respite from the morning sun, inviting us to slow down and savor the sights and sounds of nature.

Along the way, we encountered the remnants of a bygone era – fallen trees covered in moss, ferns flourishing in the damp undergrowth, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife darting through the foliage. These simple yet profound moments served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things.

Cathedral Grove

Reaching the iconic Cathedral Grove, we paused to marvel at the sheer size and beauty of the ancient redwoods that surrounded us. Their massive trunks stretched towards the sky, their branches reaching out like fingers to touch the heavens. Standing in their presence, we were humbled by the grandeur of nature.

As we made our way back to the trailhead, our hearts were full, and our spirits rejuvenated. The morning hike in Muir Woods National Monument had been a journey of self-discovery, a moment of quiet reflection amidst the chaos of everyday life. We left the forest feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience its beauty and serenity.

In the end, Muir Woods National Monument was not just a destination; it was a sanctuary for the soul, a place to reconnect with the natural world and find peace in its embrace. So, next time you find yourself in San Francisco, make sure to set aside a morning to explore this magical forest – you won’t be disappointed.

Morning in Muir Woods

Thank you for joining us on this virtual hike through Muir Woods National Monument. Remember to take only pictures, leave only footprints, and always respect the beauty and serenity of nature.

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A Weekend in San Fransisco

By Ashleigh

On June 17, 2024

In Travel

Sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge

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San Francisco has a magnetic allure that pulls you in from the moment you arrive. With its iconic sights, vibrant neighborhoods, and endless energy, this city knows how to captivate even the most seasoned travelers. Join us as we uncover the highlights of our recent San Francisco adventure.

We began our exploration by checking into the funky and affordable Citizen M hotel. This European chain has mastered the art of packing style and comfort into cleverly designed micro rooms. While cozy for two people, the innovative tech features, lively lounges, and prime location made it the perfect home base.

San Fransisco Cable Car

No visit to San Francisco is complete without riding the historic cable cars. We queued up early to nab coveted outside hanging spots for a thrilling journey to Fisherman’s Wharf. This iconic wharf area oozes old-school charm with its bustling marina, street performers, and mom-and-pop eateries serving up piping hot sourdough bread bowls of creamy clam chowder.

Otter at the Aquarium of the Bay

The Aquarium of the Bay provided an up-close look at the incredible marine life of San Francisco Bay. Winding through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish was an amazing experience. But the playful otters frolicking in their habitat stole the show.

A short stroll led us to Ghirardelli Square, home of the legendary chocolate company. We indulged in mind-blowingly thick shakes at the old-world ice cream parlor, surrounded by chocolate sculptures and table inside a cable car replica.

Craving a respite from the crowds, we ventured to Fort Mason. This former military fort, now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, offered a refreshing taste of local life with its quiet trails, friendly dog walkers, and stunning bay views.

Sailing San Fransisco Bay No San Francisco experience is truly complete without a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. A narrated boat tour provided unbeatable vantage points of this modern wonder while filling our minds with its rich history and architectural significance. I was glad I brought my coat because it was chilly out on the bay!

After our tour, we headed to dinner in Chinatown at the modern China Live, which was a different take than we experienced on our last visit when we did a Chinatown food tour (read about our experience on that tour here). The food was phenomenal and their house-made condiments were so good we brought some to take home.

Mission San Fransisco de Assisi

To experience a side of San Francisco few tourists see, we explored the Mission District. This vibrant neighborhood overflows with colorful murals, trendy eateries, and the medieval Mission San Francisco de Asis church. But our quest focused on something more…a legendary local burrito. After a tip from a local, we indulged in the ultimate Mission-style behemoth at Pancho Villa – a gargantuan tortilla stuffed with perfectly seasoned rice, beans, salsa, and all the fixings. Certainly a spiritual experience!

As the fog rolled in to end our journey, we felt incredibly fortunate to have uncovered so many of San Francisco’s diverse facets. From its famous sights to its quirky subcultures, this dynamic city has an unmatched power to enchant all who wander its hilly streets. If you have a passion for exploring, San Francisco needs to be at the very top of your travel bucket list.

Chinatown at Night

Riding the Rails: Amtrak’s California Zephyr

By Ashleigh

On June 10, 2024

In Travel

Red Rocks in Colorado

Peering out the window, you watch as the majestic Rocky Mountains give way to the arid deserts of Nevada, and the towering Sierra Nevadas loom on the horizon. The gentle rocking of the train lulls you into a state of tranquility as you take in the ever-changing landscapes. This is the magic of train travel – the opportunity to truly experience the grandeur of America at a pace that allows you to savor every mile.

Amtrak’s legendary California Zephyr route from Chicago to Emeryville (near San Francisco) is an iconic journey that epitomizes the romance of the rails. At over 2,400 miles long and traversing seven states, it’s one of the most scenic train rides in the country. From the craggy cliffs of Colorado’s Glenwood Canyon to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada, this transcontinental odyssey promises endless vistas and a window into the very soul of the American West.

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Our adventure started in the bustling metropolis of Chicago (above), where we stayed in the lavishly appointed Allegro Royal Sonesta, near the train station. Before boarding the train, we stopped for lunch at Sarah Grueneburg’s wonderful Monteverde for some of the most fantastic Italian food I have ever had. After lunch, we headed to Union Station where we boarded the distinctive double-decker Superliner train. Having the option to book sleeper accommodations made the prospect of spending multiple nights onboard far more appealing. While the traditional coach seats offer a no-frills experience, the first-class sleeping cars provide a welcome oasis of comfort and privacy.

From cozy roomettes to spacious bedrooms, the sleeper options range from functional to more comfortable. Our quaint roomette may have been compact, but it came equipped with seats that converted into beds, access to a shower, and turndown service each evening. Best of all, meals in the dining car were included – a welcome perk that added to the indulgent experience.

As the miles rolled by, we soon discovered that one of the biggest draws of long-haul train travel is the opportunity to take in vistas that are simply impossible to witness from the air. The California Zephyr’s route is a veritable showcase of America’s natural splendor, from the snow-capped peaks and winding rivers of Colorado to the otherworldly desert landscapes of Nevada.

Observation Car on California Zephyr

Spending time in the glass-enclosed Sightseer Lounge observation car, we were transfixed by the passing panoramas. The train’s leisurely pace allowed us to fully appreciate the subtleties of light and shadow playing across the rugged terrain. We watched in awe as the train snaked through narrow mountain passes, canyons, and long tunnels bored through solid rock. This disconnection from the hustle of daily life was not only welcomed but essential to fully embracing the unhurried rhythms of rail travel.

Amtrak’s long-haul routes are a throwback to a more elegant era of travel. Gone are the hassles of airports, the indignities of cramped planes, and the impersonal sterility of it all. In their place is an almost nostalgic experience that encourages you to relish the simple pleasures of the journey itself. Mornings began with a hot breakfast in the dining car, where the gently rocking motion of the train added an extra dimension to the experience. Midday meant whiling away the hours with a good book or enjoying conversations with fellow travelers over lunch as the landscapes rolled by. As evening settled in, we would adjourn to the dining car once more for a leisurely three-course dinner accompanied by a glass of wine. The ambiance was warm and convivial, with strangers quickly becoming friends united by a shared sense of adventure.

California Zephyr with Union Pacific Engine in Emeryville, California

It is important to note that Amtrak is infamous for delays. While we arrived in Denver ahead of schedule, shortly after leaving, one of our engines was out of commission and we sat in Granby, Colorado for several hours while they disconnected it from our train. We were delayed once more when we pulled into Grand Junction and they hooked up a Union Pacific engine to our train to help pull us through the Sierras. All-in-all, we arrived in Emeryville about 3 hours behind schedule, which is not too bad for Amtrak time. If you are planning a journey on Amtrak, patience is key, and give yourself more than enough time to reach your destination.

As our train finally pulled into the Emeryville station, there was a tinge of melancholy at the journey’s end. The California Zephyr had worked its magic, immersing us in the grandeur of the great American landscape while connecting us to the romantic spirit of rail travel’s halcyon days.

Long-haul train journeys aren’t just a way to get from one place to another – they’re an enchanting opportunity to embrace the thrill of the open road from the comfort of rolling accommodations. If unhurried indulgence, spectacular scenery, and a touch of nostalgia are what you crave, then all aboard! The adventure of a lifetime awaits on Amtrak’s transcontinental routes.

Tips for the Long-Haul Traveler

Dever Union Station

While the allure of a multi-day train journey is undeniable, amenities are limited, and a bit of preparation can go a long way toward ensuring your comfort:

Pack minimally and organize your belongings neatly to avoid clutter in the compact sleeper spaces
An eye mask and earplugs are essential for quality sleep amid the motion and ambient light
Bring entertainment like books, magazines, or downloadable content, as WiFi can be spotty
Have a portable battery pack to keep devices charged, as outlets are limited
Be sure to get out and stretch your legs frequently by walking the sway-friendly aisles

Most importantly, embrace a mindset of patience and unhurried living. Delays are common due to the freight rail priorities (or as in our case, equipment failures), but rushing defeats the purpose of this relaxing mode of travel. Slow down, savor the experience, and create lasting memories from a bygone era of exploration.

California Zephyr in Glenwood Springs