All posts by Martin

Leaving Boston on Nov 15, 2022 and arriving back in Boston Nov 15 2023.
Leaving Key West, FL on May 15, 2023 and arriving in the Arctic Circle on Aug 8, 2023

After completing my previous road trips, which had me on and off the road for about 3 to 4 months at a time over the past two years, I found myself contemplating my next adventure. Alaska, a place I had never explored, beckoned to me as an exciting destination. During my research, I stumbled upon a fascinating possibility: the opportunity to embark on a road journey to the Arctic Circle. The moment this idea took shape, I knew deep inside that this was the adventure I had been searching for. It was a decision made with unwavering excitement: ‘THAT’s what I want to do!’

A part of this journey will take me from one corner of the country to the other. The plan is to drive from Key West, FL to the Arctic Circle in Alaska.

I’ll be periodically adding posts to this thread from the journey.

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  New Psychedelic Alaska T-Shirt Designs Inspired by My Favorite AdventureNovember 2, 2024
  It’s been almost a year since my road trip to Alaska, and I’ve channeled that experience into a new collection of psychedelic Alaska tee shirts. Each design captures the stunning landscapes and vibrant energy that made Alaska my favorite place. Check out all six designs and bring a piece of the Last Frontier into your wardrobe!
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  Windswept Beauty: Racine Beach and Wind Point Lighthouse AdventureOctober 30, 2023
  Join me on a weather-worn adventure along Lake Michigan’s shores as I visit Racine Beach and Wind Point Lighthouse. Despite the uncooperative weather, I discover the serene beauty of these extraordinary places, hidden from the crowds. Find out why these destinations, one a ‘best of’ gem and the other a historic marvel, left me feeling deeply grateful amidst the cold winds and rain.
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  On the Road Again: A Superdawg Pit Stop in Wheeling, ILOctober 15, 2023
  Join me on a delicious detour at Superdawg Drive In, where I savor the history and flavors of their iconic hot dogs. A pit stop that adds a dash of nostalgia to my van life journey. Come hungry!
• 
  Exploring the Midwest En Route to the Arctic CircleOctober 14, 2023
  Join me on a Midwest van life road trip as we continue our journey through Cincinnati’s vibrant scenes, explore the culinary delights of Ohio, and savor the charm of Carmel, Indiana. From savory bites to delightful discoveries, this leg of the adventure has it all.
• 
  Exploring Georgetown, KY: A Culinary Journey at Fava’s RestaurantOctober 8, 2023
  Discover the charm of Georgetown, Kentucky, as I indulge in the iconic Hot Brown at Fava’s Restaurant during my van life adventure north. A culinary journey awaits in the Bluegrass State!
• 
  Coral Castle to Concert Halls: My Road Trip Continues NorthOctober 5, 2023
  The road trip adventure unfolds! From Charleston’s live music to family reunions in Charlotte, discover the next leg of my journey to the Arctic Circle.”
• 
  Road Trip Through Coral CastleSeptember 27, 2023
  As I embark on my road trip North, I have months ahead of me, with countless adventures awaiting. One of my first stops on this journey is the enigmatic Coral Castle in Florida, an attraction crafted by the meek and mysterious Ed Leedskalnin. Here, you’ll delve into the mysteries, history, and unique feats of this incredible site.
• 
  Choosing the Arctic Circle RouteSeptember 23, 2023
  Follow my Arctic Circle road trip journey as I explore routes and plan the ultimate adventure. Discover key insights for driving to the Arctic Circle and unlock a world of northern wonders.
• 
  Year Long Roadtrip – First 6 MonthsSeptember 19, 2023
  Embark on a year-long road trip adventure starting from Boston, reaching the Arctic Circle, and back. Watch the thrilling video recap of the first 6 months, covering coastal towns, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes.
• 
  Driving to the Arctic Circle – My 12 Month TrekSeptember 19, 2023
  I stumbled upon a fascinating possibility: the opportunity to embark on a year-long road trip to the Arctic Circle. The moment this idea took shape, I knew deep inside that this was the adventure I had been searching for.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

Van life is all about embracing the open road and discovering hidden gems along the way. To make this journey more rewarding and hassle-free, I rely on a trusty companion – iOverlander. This incredible app has become an indispensable tool in my van life adventures. In this post, I’ll share how I use iOverlander to find unique places to stay, locate water sources, and manage essential services for my van, making it a must-have resource for fellow travelers.

One of the most exciting aspects of van life is uncovering off-the-beaten-path destinations. With iOverlander, I can explore uncharted territories with ease. The app is a treasure trove of user-generated content, offering details about scenic camping spots, serene lakesides, and breathtaking vistas that conventional travel guides often miss.

How I Use IOverlander:

1. Finding Campsites:
   I use iOverlander to discover unique camping spots. The app provides valuable insights into free campsites, wild camping areas, and paid campgrounds. Each listing includes reviews and ratings from fellow travelers, helping me choose the perfect spot to park for the night.
2. Water Sources:
   Staying hydrated is crucial during van life, and iOverlander makes it simple to locate water sources. I rely on the app to pinpoint nearby taps, public fountains, or places where I can fill my water tanks, ensuring a steady supply of clean water for cooking and washing.
3. Dump Stations:
   Proper waste disposal is a part of responsible van life. iOverlander’s extensive database includes information on dump stations where I can safely empty my gray water tank and dispose of waste, all without impacting the environment.
4. Connectivity:
   Van life doesn’t mean you have to disconnect entirely. I use iOverlander to find spots with good cell signal or free Wi-Fi, allowing me to stay connected with friends, family, and my online community.

Interaction and Community:

What sets iOverlander apart is its thriving community of like-minded travelers. I can connect with other van lifers, share experiences, and offer insights on the places I’ve explored. It’s a two-way street of knowledge and camaraderie, making every journey richer.

iOverlander is more than just an app; it’s a vital companion for your van life adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just beginning your journey, this tool will open doors to countless adventures and experiences you’ll cherish. Remember that van life is as unique as the individual living it, and iOverlander helps you create a van life story that’s entirely your own.

Check out IOverlander Here

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up iOverlander, plan your next route, and get ready to make unforgettable memories on the open road!

One of the things I love about my travels is that I get to experience living elsewhere.  Staying at an AirBnB or with friends gives me the ability to experience life as if I were living in places other than Boston.  I get to shop at the local grocery stores, experience the coffee shop around the corner, see what night life is like and work remotely in different environments.  It’s like I’m living somewhere else for a small amount of time. These are my ‘other homes’ from my Missoula and back trip.

Des Moines, IA

My Des Moines AirBnB home was in a great location, in a beautiful neighborhood and had some old charm.  The coffee shop was just a few blocks away and downtown was a short drive.  I was able to take a short Uber to the Iowa State Fair and most activities and restaurants were a quick drive. Raven, the cat, loved sitting on my lap and visiting me in my room which was very sweet. The front porch was quaint and a great place to relax or get some work done.

Omaha, NE

My Omaha AirBnB was a comfortable little place in a very cute walkable residential neighborhood which I took advantage of. There were some really nice gardens up and down the street. Both the living room and front porch were very comfortable so I ended many of my evening just sitting in the front and reflecting.

Boise, ID

I think the Boise AirBnB was my favorite ‘home’ on this trip.  I had my own full apartment above the garage which made it look like it was up in the trees. It was in such a beautiful, walking, tree lined neighborhood which made it very peaceful. It was named “Pat’s Treehouse” after one of the owners, however, I called it that because I was able to watch the Pats on the big screen television!

Fargo, ND

My Fargo AirBnB kept the trend of being in a nice residential neighborhood. I was able to walk to a few restaurants as well as the Fargo Brewing Company. It had a beautiful outdoor sitting area which I took advantage of by eating some of my meals there. The weather was so nice, I was able to work outside sometimes as well. I was a little surprised that Fargo in October was that warm.

I have future AirBnBs in Raleigh, NC, Miami, FL and Birmingham, AL already reserved for my upcoming Florida family get-a-way trip.

Today, I’m sharing a crucial aspect of visiting the captivating Airport Mesa Vortex in Sedona, Arizona—parking. As a fellow traveler living the van life, who had my fair share of parking drama at this mesmerizing site, I’m here to provide you with valuable insights and recommendations on how to secure a parking spot and make the most of your visit.

Parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex: A Race Against the Clock

When I heard about the limited parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex and the advice to arrive early, I thought I was prepared. However, my experience was a wake-up call in more ways than one.

To make the most of this adventure, I set my alarm for 5 A.M. and arrived at the Airport Mesa Vortex trailhead at 6 A.M., hoping to snag a parking spot for my van. Much to my surprise, all the spaces in the closer parking area were already taken. Undeterred, I decided to wait, believing it wouldn’t be long until someone came down from the vortex, freeing up a parking spot. As I waited, another van pulled up, and we both found ourselves in a parking standoff, each with our blinkers on, waiting for the same spot.

Tensions Rise: The Blinker Battle

As my fellow van dweller and I both had our blinkers on, a tense situation emerged. We both desperately wanted the same spot from the first person to come down from the vortex. It was a classic case of blinker warfare—a standoff that can test the patience and civility of even the most seasoned van life travelers.

Tips for Navigating the Parking Challenge

1. Arrive Ultra Early: My ultimate recommendation, based on my experience living the van life, is to arrive at the Airport Mesa Vortex well before sunrise. This not only increases your chances of securing a parking spot for your van but also allows you to witness the stunning Sedona sunrise from this unique location.
2. Consider the Longer Parking Option: If you’re not an early bird or prefer a more extended hike while embracing the van life, the parking area at the top of Airport Rd is a viable alternative. While I can’t speak from personal experience about this option, it alleviates the stress of competing for limited spaces and provides an opportunity to explore a longer section of the trail. Many van life enthusiasts opt for this choice to avoid parking conflicts.
3. Be Prepared for Parking Fees: It’s possible that there may be a parking fee at the Airport Mesa Vortex. During my visit, I didn’t encounter such a charge, but I did notice that some websites mentioned the possibility. Parking regulations can change, so I recommend checking the latest information online or with local authorities to confirm the current parking fee status. Being prepared for potential fees will ensure a smoother experience while living the van life.
4. Carpool with Fellow Travelers: If you’re traveling with friends or fellow van lifers, consider carpooling to reduce the number of vehicles searching for parking. This not only helps ease the parking situation but also lessens the environmental impact of multiple vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly visit.
5. Midweek Visits: If your travel schedule allows for flexibility, plan your visit to the Airport Mesa Vortex on a weekday rather than a weekend. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a better chance of finding a parking spot without the weekend rush.

Preparing for Your Visit

Before embarking on your adventure to the Airport Mesa Vortex, it’s essential to consider a few key factors. Sedona’s weather can vary, so be sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly. The trail to the vortex is generally suitable for most fitness levels, but it’s a good idea to be prepared with sturdy hiking shoes. You’ll also want to pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection, as well as some snacks to keep your energy up.

The Reward: Experiencing the Airport Mesa Vortex

Despite the parking challenges, the Airport Mesa Vortex experience is undoubtedly worth it. Once you’ve secured your spot for your vehicle, embarked on the short hike, and reached the vortex’s viewpoints, you’ll find yourself immersed in the serene energy of this enchanting place.

Meditate, Reflect, and Rejuvenate

The Airport Mesa Vortex is a perfect spot for meditation and self-reflection, ideal for van life enthusiasts seeking a tranquil experience. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and immerse yourself in the serene vibes. Many visitors, including myself, report a sense of calm and rejuvenation in this special place.

Capture the Moment

Don’t forget to capture the mesmerizing scenery, a must for van life adventurers. The stunning red rock formations against the clear Arizona sky make for incredible photo opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or just want to document your journey in the van life style, the Airport Mesa Vortex offers a picturesque backdrop.

Parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex can be an adventure in itself. Still, with the right strategy and a dash of patience, you can navigate the challenges and experience the magic of this unique destination. Arrive early, consider the longer parking option if necessary, and remember that the beauty of the vortex awaits those who persevere. Safe travels, fellow adventurers, and may your journey to the Airport Mesa Vortex be filled with both happy parking tales and moments of serenity.

Here is a 360 degree panorama of the Vortex. You can see my van below in the small parking area.

See this Airport Mesa Vortex video on TikTok

I really enjoyed my weekend in Sedona, AZ. One of my highlights was the Airport Mesa Vortex.

What is a vortex?

A vortex is considered to be an area on the earth where energy is projected out. They tend to be energized and spiritual places on the planet. Sedona has a few different vortexes.

Airport Mesa Vortex

The Airport Mesa vortex is the easiest of the vortexes in Sedona to get to and does not require any hiking. I did need to climb up to the top of a hill, but it is a very short walk. The parking area is only a short drive from the center of Sedona so it does tend to get crowded. If you want to be the only one there, you typically need to get there very early. I woke up early (can you tell?), arrived at 6:30 and the parking area was already full. I waited about 10 minutes for someone to come down from the top and I was able to park. Upon hiking to the top, I found it very crowded and far from peaceful. There were 35+ folks meadering about and having conversations. I found a spot, laid down and meditated attempting to block out the sounds of everyone and feeling the energy.

After some time, I sat up and found myself conversing with a nice gentleman. He said he came that morning at 4 a.m. so would be able to be there alone. He mentioned it is the only time you can be alone up there. He then started to leave and I went back to meditating.

I laid there, meditating and attempting to be in the moment despite the business of the place. Not 15 minutes later, I opened my eyes and found myself there completely by myself!! It was a magical moment!!

Here is a 360 degree panorama of the Vortex after everyone left!

See this Airport Mesa Vortex video on TikTok

Note: By clicking on some of the links above and making a purchase, I may make a commission.

It was great visiting with cousins in the Summit, NJ area. I love my family and am blessed to have so many cousins that all get along. Their place also provided a really good space for me to get a lot of work done. Work has been pretty intense lately having gone from a department of 5 to a department of 3. Lucky for me, I enjoy what I do and get along well with my coworkers.

I left Summit, NJ in the early afternoon after getting a good amount of work done in the morning.

Getting to Roanoke, VA from Summit, NJ was an overnight drive that was full of adventure and exploration. It turned out to be a fantastic two days in which I just went with what the Universe was throwing me.

Visiting MaidPro Morristown

i woke up early and spent the morning getting work done at my cousins place. Then I headed to meet our MaidPro Morristown owner. It was nice to catch up with her. We chatted a bit about the work I do for her, results and planning. We left and had lunch locally.

Greystone Woods Disc Golf Course, Morris Plains, NJ

Decided to play a top ranked disc golf course not far from the MaidPro office. Nice course. Challenging through the woods with some water hazards, but enjoyable.

Around the Table Catering, Lehigh Valley, PA

It was late and I hadn’t had dinner yet. I recalled an old friend from my high school days that now owned a food truck in the Lehigh Valley. I saw online that the truck recently won the Best Food Truck in the Lehigh Valley award. I found out what time they closed, calculated the travel time and realized I could get there 5 minutes before closing. Which I did and the food was delicious. Unfortunately, my friend was not working that night. I did get to meet her husband and daughter. For anyone in the Lehigh Valley… go eat here!

Ever Grain Brewing Company, Camp Hill, PA

My plan was to spend get as far as I could Thursday night and then find somewhere to work on the road on Friday. Dinner and the round of golf went quicker than I expected as I was a bit further along than I thought I would be. I was going to be going through the Harrisburg area around 9 PM. I recently reconnected with another old high school era friend recently and we agreed that if I ever went through Harrisburg, I would let him know. So I did. I texted him and said I’d be coming through in about an hour. He managed to get away and we met at Ever Grain Brewing Company in Camp Hill, PA. Was really great catching up with Barry. Hadn’t actually seen him in probably 30 years. We sat around and chatted for 2 hours!

I drove a few more hours, through Maryland and West Virginia, into Virginia. Then found a rest area, climbed into the back of the van and got a few hours of sleep.

It is nice to get back on the road again. It’s been a few months since the van was totaled and it took awhile to find the replacement. First stop heading out to Colorado was at my cousin’s in New Jersey. I arrived to Jersey late Friday night and took an early train into Manhattan to visit my daughter.

	Took a nice 30 minute walk from Penn Station down to Washington Square Park and took a few pictures along the way.

Murray’s Bagels

What a great breakfast. These sandwiches were huge!!

Little Island at Hudson River Park

Little Island is a unique public park located in the Hudson River at Pier 55 in Manhattan, New York City. It’s a floating park built on top of a series of mushroom-shaped pillars, creating a stunning oasis of greenery and open space on the waterfront. The park features beautiful gardens, performance spaces, walkways, and scenic views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. It’s designed to provide a tranquil and artistic retreat for visitors to enjoy various cultural events, performances, and natural beauty. Little Island has become a popular attraction in the city since its opening in 2021.

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is this super modern and fancy neighborhood in New York City. It’s on the west side of Manhattan and is basically a city within a city. One of the highlights there is this crazy spiral staircase called the Vessel, which is this giant sculpture you used to be able to climb. And if you’re into shopping, they’ve got a huge mall called The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards with all sorts of fancy stores. Plus, there are some cool parks and public spaces, so it’s a pretty neat place to explore in the Manhattan.

Oculus at the World Trade Center

The “Oculus at the World Trade Center” is this incredible place I visited in Lower Manhattan, New York City. It’s not your typical shopping mall; it’s more like a work of art. Imagine a massive, futuristic structure that looks a bit like a giant ribcage made of steel and glass. Inside, it’s a bustling hub where you can catch different subway lines and hop on the PATH train. It’s got a bunch of shops, cool boutiques, and places to eat, making it a pretty awesome spot to check out when you’re in the World Trade Center area.

After all that walking, I went back to my AirBnB and took a nice nap then met back up with KK and some of her friends. We took an Uber over to Brooklyn, had a nice dinner then heard some live music. Was an outstanding day!

I’m getting closer to getting back on the road. I picked this up about a week ago….

2018 Ford Transit 350

It was previously owned by a fleet company that leased it out to Home Depot in Plymouth, MA.

The Bison Range is a nature reserve on the Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana. The range was established for the conservation of American bison. It was formerly called the National Bison Range until Congress restored it to federal trust ownership for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT).

It was a chilly day with scattered rain. Between the wildlife and the scenery, I found the drive through the reservation amazing!

Bison on the Range

Hiking in the Bison Range

There was a short hike at the top of the drive. Although it was a bit chilly, the hike with my cousins was very enjoyable and the scenery was amazing. We brought our bear spray with us!

Other wildlife

We were treated to some other wildlife as we drove through the Bison range. There was a herd of elk and off in the distance, a large elk with a huge set of antlers. My cousins had been here a few times prior but never saw as much wildlife as we saw that day. We live in an amazing world.

This was easily one of the most beautiful and scenic road trips I’ve taken on any of my van life travels. The first third of the trip followed along the Payette River and then it headed into the mountains. I made a few stops along the way including an oil change, coffee, some places that were too beautiful to just drive by, White Bird Battle Historical Monument and my first taste of a Huckelberry pie. Unfortunately, the last half of the drive was after dark so I didn’t get to see much at that point.

Driving along the Payette River.

Huckleberry Pie in Lucile, ID

I saw this place and decided to stop. I’d never had huckleberries before and thought this would be a good place to get some. The man working the counter was very friendly and helpful when I asked him about the fruit. He went into the back and cut me a slice of a new, fresh pie! Tastes like blueberry.

White Bird Battlefield Overlook – Nez Perce National Historical Park

On June 17, 1877, Captain David Perry and his troops moved into the canyon to strike the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) who were sheltering in one of their winter villages. The soldiers encountered a peace party of six warriors carrying a white flag riding towards them. A civilian volunteer shot twice at the peace party and the battle began. The U.S. cavalry was defeated with heavy losses and the Nimiipuu began their long journey to find safety and sanctuary. Another sad story about the white man’s mistreatment of Native Americans. You can read more about the battle here

I arrived in Missoula, MT late in the evening!