The very basic core of one’s living spirit is their passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun.
- jon krakauer
table of contents volume 1, issue 2 Where To Next? ................................................................................................................................................. 5 Instant Diary ....................................................................................................................................................... 7 La Ville Lumiere ............................................................................................................................................. 9 Apps to Prepare / Apps While You’re There ........................................................................................ 17 From Alnwick to Edinburgh ................................................................................................................... 19 A World of Books .................................................................................................................................... 27 Mexico’s Ancient Treasures ..................................................................................................................... 29 Guest Interview: Hawaii ............................................................................................................................. 31 Adventure Through Arizona ...................................................................................................................... 33 Roam Through the Rockies ..................................................................................................................... 39 Delectible Donuts & Classy Coffee .............................................................................................................. 41 Going Coastal .................................................................................................................................................. 43 Yosemite National Park .............................................................................................................................. 51 Meet Virginia ................................................................................................................................................... 53 Grab Grub: Pacific Northwest .................................................................................................................... 61 Film Locations: Twin Peaks .......................................................................................................................... 62 Yellowstone: Where the Buffalo Roam .................................................................................................. 63 Meet The Ladies ............................................................................................................................................ 71 Thank You ......................................................................................................................................................... 72
,, Where to Next?
Emily’s Take on the Importance of Youth Travel
Trying to express the appreciation and pure joy I feel when reminiscing on all of the places I have been fortunate enough to see around the world can be complex. It comes as no surprise that I’m having a difficult time conveying this gratefulness through my laptop keyboard, because travel is something I feel so passionate about. When I think about how much I have gained from my travels overall, it almost becomes overwhelming in the most positive and progressive way. It is for these reasons that I have chosen to try and convince you that travel, especially while you are young, can be one of the most educational, valuable, and impressionable ways to spend your time and money.
Finding Yourself Throughout my college years, I took school seriously. It was a very crucial stage in my life, and I understood the importance of how it would shape my future. At the same time, I used the free time I had as a college student to my advantage. Of course, many hours are spent studying, reading, going to class, and possibly working at a part-time job or internship, and although I had very little money at the time, I made my adventures possible. I did this by traveling over the summers, saving as much as I possibly could, and researching inexpensive ways to travel like using various websites to book cheap flights and staying in hostels. I utilized every student discount under the sun, slept on couches and stayed with family in a number of locations. It may have not been luxurious, but the experiences, memories, and lessons I have learned about myself and the world around me will stay with me forever. These adventures are a huge part of the person I am today, and are only reachable when you step outside of your comfort zone. I learned what my strengths and weaknesses are, brought all of that knowledge back with me, and grew from it. 5
There Are Good People Everywhere You Go On each of our trips, the Roadie crew has been actively keeping a growing list of the “angels” we come across while traveling. They have all helped us in some way, and it has become a tradition for us to remember them. For the most part, it has been my experience that when you visit a place that someone calls their home you are welcomed with open arms. The amount of strangers that have guided us along the way has taught me that we should always remember that generally, people have good intentions. It is a much more beneficial, productive, and satisfying way to live life than to assume the opposite. When traveling, expect to meet a lot of angels!
Thinking On Your Feet Wandering lost around Europe without Wi-Fi and the ability to easily access Siri or Google Maps on our cell phones taught me to be prepared, pay attention to my surroundings and carry physical maps. Coming close to losing Taylor in the current of a river in Arizona taught me to be cautious and safe, because really anything can happen. Being stranded at a remote airport after an emergency landing taught me to always carry extra money for unexpected predicaments, research reliable airlines, and not to take anything for granted. These are just a few important lessons in which I had to think on my feet while traveling, and really did help me grow as an individual and an adult.
I know it is easy to say you don’t have the money or the time to get out there and see what the world has to offer. I understand that everyone’s situation is different and that traveling can definitely become expensive. My answer to all of these concerns and doubts would be, “If there’s a will, there’s a way.” Do what you have to do to make it happen; I am telling you, your travels will be the best times in your life. Research ways to take small spontaneous trips or live and work in another country for a while. When you make travel a priority, it will come to you. There is truly nothing like looking out at the Grand Canyon and feeling so incredibly small, yet so full of life and opportunity. 6
Christina’s
INSTANT DIARY
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Locations (left to right):
PAGE 1: Montauk NY • Elizabethtown NY • Muir Beach CA • Big Sur CA • San Francisco CA PAGE 2: Oakland CA • Laguna CA • Lake Berryessa CA • Point Lobos CA • Lucerne CH
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La Ville Lumièere
, Paris: The City of Light by Taylor Foerster 10
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i have always had a thing for anything French, and I still do. Being a young daydreamer throughout high school, the thought of traveling to Europe one day generally meant “sitting in a cute cafe down a cozy cobblestone alley in Paris.” I was so focused on getting to the City of Light that I didn’t spend nearly as much of my time researching other cities around Europe. Paris just has that allurement; it is attractive and fascinating and classy. After adrenalized screams and jumps on the bed while booking my first plane ticket to Europe, all I could think was “I cannot believe I’m going to finally be able to experience Parisian life firsthand.” I had butterflies in my stomach for hours.
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As far back as I can remember, I’ve been intrigued by their beautiful language and artistic culture. I studied art history throughout college and have found an inspiring connection with French art movements such as Impressionism and Fauvism, that has only been strengthened by my two visits to Paris. Spending a few days in Paris seems like not nearly enough time, because there is an abundance of magnificent things to see and seemingly, the list never ends. Personally, I feel like there are so many must-sees, therefore expect to have your days completely packed when visiting the city.
After arriving in Paris for the first time three years ago and using our “elementary-level” knowledge of French (I wouldn’t even call it that) to figure out the ticket machine to get onto the Metro, we decided that we should probably just head over to the Eiffel Tower since it was our first day and that was what we were waiting for! We vaguely glanced at the Metro map, following the purple 4 line down near the Seine River, and thought we understood where to go so we were on our way. 13
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Taking the Metro in Paris is the easiest thing I’ve ever done, even for being entirely in another language. Except, we got off at a stop too far away from the Eiffel Tower; walking up out of the station directly next to the most gorgeous river I’ve ever seen. As we walked along the Seine, the sun was setting in the distance and the air was crisp even though it was June. I remember thinking that it was the most perfect introduction to Paris. We knew we were far from the tower, but we decided to stay lost and figure it out.
We saw golden statues unlike anything I’ve ever seen, the most amazingly intricate bridges crossing over the water (one of them with the Love Locks), flowers and vines creeping up the sides of buildings, and everything was glowing from the low orange sun and purple sky. Eventually, in the distance, we saw the Eiffel Tower peaking out over the loveliest little apartment buildings. We navigated our way over and sat in the grass and watched the sun set behind it. At one point a French man came over and kissed us on the cheek just to say “bonjour!” and then he walked away. We even saw him a few days later outside the Louvre and he remembered us.
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Must-sees in Paris: • The Eiffel Tower - taking the stairs is
a cheaper option, and you get to skip the ridiculous elevator line while working on your fitness! Spend your time enjoying the breeze and looking out at the charming 19th century cityscape. Grab some crepes and have a picnic on the Champ de Mars surrounding the iron tower. Don’t forget to stick around until nighttime to see the Eiffel Tower twinkle!
• The Louvre - whether you just pass by
and check out the famous Louvre Pyramid and Palace or go inside to experience the grandeur of the most visited art museum in the world, this place will definitely not disappoint. It’s in a fantastic location right off the Seine River and is inevitably magical.
• Arc de Triomphe - a famous
monument that stands at the western end of Champs-Elysees, honors those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
• Notre Dame Cathedral - French for “Our
Lady”, the historic Catholic cathedral should “ring a bell” for most people. The gorgeous Gothic architecture is so impressive, inside and out, and of course it is fun to reminisce about the 1996 Disney movie while exploring the top of the western facade and its watchful gargoyles.
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• Chateau des Versailles - a short bus or
train ride outside of the city center will enable you to be completely overwhelmed by the impressive Versailles Palace. Home to the royal family of Louis XIV, make sure you check out the Hall of Mirrors, the extravagant gardens that seem to go on forever, and Marie-Antoinette’s Estate.
• Musee d’Orsay - an art museum that houses
the largest collection of Impressionist and PostImpressionist works, right near the Louvre. Masterpieces by Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne, Seurat, Gauguin, and Van Gogh grace the walls and will make any art lover jump for joy.
• Des Catacombes - underground ossuaries
that hold the remains of six million people, throughout renovated caverns and tunnels underneath the city. Pretty creepy but super cool! You will see actual skulls and bones and navigate through dark passageways that lead you to the other side of the city.
• Sacre-Coeur - the Basilica of the Sacred
Heart is a Roman Catholic Church that provides an awesome view of the city and the architecture is just breathtaking. The Church towers over the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre, which housed the studios of Dali, Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh. This neighborhood has many slender, winding alleys with cafes and such.
• La Seine - the main river that runs through
Paris, dividing it in half. Whether you take a stroll or a cruise along the river at any time of day, it is definitely a special experience. Many of Paris’ top attractions are located along the river. You can also find the Love Lock Bridge here!
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Apps to Prepare / Apps While You're There
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Avoid Your Next “Oh Sh*t” Moment by Being Prepared with Rebecca’s Favorite iPhone Apps for Traveling Organize:
- TripIt - My personal favorite app, TripIt organizes your travel itinerary in one place. Enter your flight information, hotel information, and other info to keep track of what your next step will be. - PackPoint - Unsure of what to pack for your trip? Enter your location and trip dates, and this app will tell you what to bring in the form of a checklist, with quantity options!
Know before you go: - MiFlight - Provides airport security line wait times. - GateGuru - Track flights and navigate airport amenities. - XE Currency - Easily convert every world currency. Book & compare: - Hipmunk & Kayak - Compare the top travel sites to find the most ideal flight & hotel deals. I prefer Kayak!
Keep track: - Trip Splitter - Evenly split travel costs with your pals. - ICarPark - Helps you remember where you parked. Keep on truckin’: - GasBuddy - Find the cheapest, closest gas stations. - HopStop - Get detailed public transportation directions. - Lyft - Affordable & safe taxi alternative. - Waze - Navigate around traffic jams before you’re stuck. Communicate: - Wi-Fi Finder - Find free or paid hotspots nearby. - WhatsApp - Message over WiFi, ideal for texting abroad. - Google Translate - Break those language barriers! - Ink Cards - Mail postcards of your iPhone photos! Food & drink: - Yelp - Your guide to the best local grub! Filter by reviews, distance, or what is currently open. - Coffee by Trotter - Scope out the best coffee shops in various major cities! First two cities come free. - Tipulator - This app takes your location into account and provides you with an appropriate tip amount.
From Alnwick to Edinburgh Along the Coast of the United Kingdom by Brittany Appel
Over the past year and a half I’ve come to think of the United Kingdom as a place hidden behind the reputation and charm of London. The UK and London are largely assumed to be interchangeable names for the same place - one place worth mentioning, one place worth visiting. While London remains muddled with international appeal, other areas all around the UK are left untouched by tourists and appreciated by locals. Recently, I’ve spent time exploring a small area of the UK that is very much underappreciated by foreigners; The northern-most part of England and the southern-most part of Scotland. This tiny region nestled between Alnwick and Edinburgh is rarely promoted or discussed in travel books. It’s a place reserved only for those who seek it. It’s rich in history, tradition, varying landscapes, hiking trails, and castles. Lots and lots of castles.
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1. Alnwick, England
The first time I visited Alnwick, my boyfriend drove me through back roads and along a very small street because, as he explained it, “you get a really nice view of the castle if you go this way.” I assumed we were just going to see the castle for a brief moment. I didn’t think that it would be welcoming me to Alnwick from the far off distance, perched atop a hill behind a large open field with dozens of sheep standing around, but that’s exactly what I saw. It’s quite obvious that the fame of Harry Potter forever changed tourism in the UK. The Quidditch scenes and broom lessons in the first Harry Potter movie were filmed at Alnwick Castle, where they still take advantage of the Harry Potter fame.
The castle is still home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland and they try their best to keep up appearances, with family photos on display throughout the interior of the castle. While the Castle is definitely Alnwick’s largest tourism boost, it’s far from the only place worth visiting in this small town. The Alnwick Gardens is home to one of the largest treehouses in the world, equipped with a full restaurant, smaller cafe, and casual outdoor seating. There is also Barter Books, a bookstore located in a converted train station. Their fame stems from being home to the original ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’ poster. It’s a great town to visit for few days, offering visitors more than just ‘another castle in another small English town.’
Places to visit in Alnwick: - Barters Books - Alnwick Castle - Alnwick Gardens - Grannies Tearoom
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2. Berwick Upon Tweed, England
As it turns out, the northernmost town in England is sodden with history and has inadvertently integrated the past with the present. While walking along the cobblestone streets and getting lost in small alleys, it’s easy to see that this town is a museum in and of itself. There are plaques disbursed all around that explain important places or events that took place long ago. It’s the kind of place that can be easily taken for granted by locals, who have lived amongst this history for years. Berwick Castle, a once full-standing structure, is today only represented by its few remains along the River Tweed.
While it would be poetic and beautiful for Berwick Castle to be perfectly preserved (as so many English Castles are), the fact that it’s not mirrors the rough yet resilient history of Berwick. The walls that still circle around the old town of Berwick were once used to secure Berwick from invaders, as the English and Scottish fought over the town for centuries. Today, restored canons still sit along the walls in the places they would have been thousands of years ago. There is a path that goes around the walls which overlooks all of Berwick and the River Tweed. It’s the perfect place to explore, take in views, or even have a picnic.
Places to visit in Berwick: -
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The Berwick Barracks The Walls Berwick Beach River Tweed The Maltings Cafe
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
While sitting in the Princes Street Gardens, it’s easy to see why Edinburgh is a thriving city full of new and old culture. Sitting atop a hill in the distance is Edinburgh Castle, which dates back as far as the twelfth century. It sits there as if it’s on display for the entire city to pay homage to. The Scottish are proud of their capital city, and rightfully so. The only times I’ve been to Edinburgh have been for short visits, only a day or two. Yet, this city makes you feel like you’ve been there for years. It’s a walkable city, and that, as usual, is the best way to see everything.
Divided quite distinctly between the old town and the new town, Edinburgh blends generations by appreciating different time periods and embracing its past. The architecture is one of the most beautiful things about Edinburgh, as buildings and streets are preserved and largely kept unchanged. The Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s most famous street, is lined with small independent shops, historic churches, and of course, men in kilts playing the bagpipe (it’s hard to go anywhere in Edinburgh without hearing bagpipes, fyi).
Places to visit in Edinburgh: - The Elephant House - The White Hart Pub - Edinburgh Castle - Princes Street Gardens
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Places to stop along the way : • Bamburgh, England Bamburgh Castle is truly impressive. It’s not only situated on a hill, but it pretty much is the hill in and of itself. If you would rather just pass through the town instead of stop for a tour of the castle, enjoy the fields that are located along the very base of the castle. It’s the perfect place to have a picnic or play some football.
• Paxton House, England This 18th century home is the perfect place to explore for a few hours, or even for the day. They offer tours of the house and you’re also allowed to roam around the Grounds. If you wander around the back and deep into the Gardens, you’ll soon be walking along the River Tweed, offering a picturesque place to sit and relax.
• Eyemouth, Scotland This small harbor town is the perfect place to stop off for a short walk or a bite to eat. Giacopazzis, a small restaurant located right across from the harbor, offers some of the best fish and chips in Southern Scotland (and by far the best I’ve ever had).
• St Abbs, Scotland While you won’t need more than an hour or two in St Abbs, the cliff and coastal views are most certainly worth the stop. There are trails all along the cliffs if you want to hike, as well as a harbor and sweeping views of the area from the very top of the cliffs. 25
A World of Books
,, Brittany’s Favorite Bookstores Across the Globe Shakespeare & Company
37 rue de la Bucherie Paris, France
Shakespeare & Company is rich in history and is perhaps one of the world’s most famous bookstores. Famous for opening their doors to writers around the world, this small, unimposing bookstore along the Seine River offers free accommodation to traveling writers passing through Paris. Kerouac, Fitzgerald and Hemingway are perhaps the most famous names associated with Shakespeare & Company. It’s hard to imagine anyone staying the night in this bookstore, as it’s small, cluttered, and completely over-crowded with books. That said, it somehow feels as though it should be this way; housing books from all over the world, just like its visitors.
TIP: This store is a tourist attraction and a must-see for any book-lover. My advice is to arrive right when they open or else the bookstore becomes cramped and makes it impossible to enjoy casual browsing.
Books are the perfect thing to accompany you on any trip. When you’re in transit for what seems like forever, or when you need something to read when waiting in line for a museum. Or just to casually read on a bench while you people watch. Here’s my recommendations for the perfect books to read when you’re traveling: 1. Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino 2. Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf
Barter Books
3. Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman 4. Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Truman Capote
Alnwick Station, Wagon Way Road Alnwick, United Kingdom
There are quite a few things that make Barter Books unique. Firstly, it’s located in an old train station, of which there are still subtle (and some not-so-subtle) nods to. There are model trains circling the store, old fountains built into the walls, and the overarching architecture is hard to ignore. While the store itself was clearly not made to house books, it does so quite fittingly with limited editions of books lining the outer walls. There’s even a cafe within the old station, rounding out the experience for any book-lover. TIP: Barter’s is very much locally grown and nurtured, so it’s not surprise they have a large section of books just on Northumberland and surrounding areas. Don’t pass up the opportunity to learn about its rich history. Also have a look through the old maps section - there are some real gems in there as well.
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Strand Bookstore
828 Broadway New York, New York
Personally, Strand has very much become my second home over the years. With four floors and shelves that reach ten feet (or more), there’s no doubt as to why Strand boasts about their “18 Miles of Books.” There’s something for everyone, as there is virtually every genre and/or topic you can think of somewhere in the store. The best part of Strand is their Rare Book Room. Accessed only by elevator, the rare book room holds some serious literary power with first editions, signed copies, and limited editions of some of the world’s most famous books. Tip: While the entire store is a mix of used and new books, there are a lot of test printings and discounted books in the basement of Strand. On more than one occasion I’ve found a discounted version of the book I was about to pay way more for. Have a look down there before making a purchase!
Stanford’s
12-14 Long Acre, Covent Garden London, United Kingdom
Stanford’s is one of the world’s largest travel bookstores. It’s a must-see for any traveler in London, whether you love books or not. The floor itself is covered in maps and the entire upperlevel is devoted to custom maps and globes. Aside from their extensive travel book selection, Stanford’s has a large section devoted to things that any traveler would need. There are waterproof notebooks (you know, for when you want to write while it’s raining), activity cards, adorable luggage tags, and even emergency bike ponchos for when you get stuck in the rain on your bike (...if you’ve ever been to Amsterdam you understand). TIP: You don’t need to be awaiting your next trip to visit Stanford’s. Go in for a casual browse or buy a book on your dream destination. It’s as much a place to daydream as it is a place to actually buy things.
Powell’s Books
1005 W Burnside St. Portland, Oregon
Book city. That’s the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Powell’s. They have a right to claim this title, as the store is very much spread out, open, and completely welcoming. It’s also huge, but it does well to accommodate casual browsers. The books are well organized and they even offer visitors a map of the store to help navigate the overwhelming amount of rooms and sections. TIP: Check Powell’s website for upcoming events for when you’ll be in the area. They have events almost nightly, and they’re all worth attending.
,, Mexico's Ancient Treasures Amanda’s Journey Around the Yucatan Peninsula
IK KIL CENOTE A trip to Cancun felt incomplete without some sort of adventure outside of the resort. During my tour of the Yucatan peninsula, I learned that there are four Aluxes representing the four different types of cenotes - K’aak’, Ha’, Iik’ and Lu’um. These are tiny humans made of clay and are able to protect their creator. It is said that these mythological 29
Mayan spirits are here to bring light and joy to the world. Alux Iik’ of the wind Cenote was the most fascinating to me. He represents travel and with him you will be able to reach any place, anywhere, there are no limits and no borders. Iik’ is unpredictable and always changing direction.
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Aside from learning about these tiny creatures... I was welcomed with warm arms (and a shot of delicious tequila) to the Mayan community. I walked around and enjoyed the sight of bright jewelry and beautifully constructed pieces made of obsidian.
With no hesitation, I jumped in and the water just felt so pure and well... magical. Of course I wanted to swing from the roots like Tarzan... unfortunately there were security guards to prevent that from happening.
Moments later we arrived to the Ik Kil Cenote. Prior to the tour, I had seen many pictures and was simply amazed. I can promise that no picture will ever do this natural phenomenon any justice. It really was the most breathtaking sight I have ever witnessed.
Last stop was to Chichen Itza, which in English means “mouth of the well�. Again, I had seen pictures, but walking towards one of the seven wonders of the world was really a jaw-dropping moment for me. With the help of a tour guide, I was able to learn a great deal of history about what occurred surrounding these stone structures.
KUKULCAN PYRAMID
TEMPLE OF THE WARRIORS
, Chichen Itza Tips:
- Going on this quest alone, I felt a guided tour with other tourists would be the most efficient and safest way. I found a tour company, Cancun Discounts, that provided transportation, all entrance fees, lunch and a tour guide for only $70.
- If you think that a trip to Cancun is all about the all-inclusive resorts, tanning on the beach, relaxing at the spa and partying at Coco Bongo, make sure to take advantage of the history these ancient Mayan sites have to offer.
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Guest interview:
,, O’ahu, Hawaii with Elsie Alonso
What island(s) did you visit while in Hawaii?
ELSIE: I was in O’ahu both times I’ve visited Hawaii. I want to eventually visit all islands, but I’m grateful I’ve gotten to know O’ahu pretty well. It’s amazing to know that all of the islands are relatively close, but very different. I can’t wait to experience them all!
How did you make your trip to Hawaii affordable? Worked my butt off at my job and saved up! I picked up all of the shifts I could, and it was extremely worth it. It also helps going as a group because you split hotel and food costs. If your hotel has a fridge and microwave there is no need to eat out every day. Go to Walmart, buy ingredients for easy food and that will help kill some of the hunger on the trip.
HAIKU STAIRS Any hiking trails or waterfall locations that you would recommend? The Haiku Stairs and Sacred Falls! However, both of these are banned, so visit them under your own discretion. A trail that is legal is Koko Head. It’s a straight up climb on railroad tracks to the peak of a mountain, and is about 1,000 steps. At the stop you can see some bays, beaches, and towns. Try doing all hikes early in the day so the noon sun doesn’t beat down on you.
How did you get around the islands that you visited? Though there is public transportation, we found a car practical because it is a small island, and there are some spots a car can take you that buses can’t. It also makes your life easier because you won’t be carrying around your hiking or beach gear everywhere. We got around O’ahu in a Mustang convertible. It sounds pretty extravagant, but this car was actually the cheapest option they had for the selected days. Check at least a month in advance for the car rental if you decide to travel this way.
, SKYDIVE HAWAII MOKULEIA
SACRED FALLS
What was the most adventurous activity that you did? Skydiving! It’s a crazy feeling jumping 12,000 feet to Earth from a perfectly functioning airplane. It’s an indescribable feeling and I suggest that if you haven’t done it before, that you do. For those short five minutes nothing else seems to matter. It feels like you can do anything and everything. Seeing the world around you from that altitude makes all of the minor problems in life feel irrelevant. This moment proved to me that all I need is to be happy with people who truly care for me. It also taught me that sometimes you should just trust your instincts and plunge into the unknown, otherwise you’re halting your life from truly happening.
Favorite food spot(s) and places to go out at night? There are a lot of great places in O’ahu to eat, and many of them are typically open in the day time. These include food trucks and fruit vendors on the North Shore that are posted up alongside highways, which means you can’t miss them. In the evening, there is a truck called Impossibles Pizza around Sharks Cove that makes amazing pizza! I believe it is only open Thursday through Sunday, but definitely taste it if you get a chance. After 6pm there are no more single slices. Also, Duke’s at the Waikiki strip is a great place if you’re in the southern part of the island. They have an unlimited salad bar, but their entrees are pretty great too. If you’re on the North Shore at night, Cholos is a nice Mexican-inspired restaurant as well.
Adventure Through Arizona
, Must-Sees Throughout the Grand Canyon State by Amanda Stevens 33
it felt both frightening and exciting to depart for college on the opposite side of the country. I had initially decided to go to Arizona State University because I had family in the area, and I felt I would have a home away from home. What I did not yet know was the greatness that Arizona had to offer. Aside from making friends for a lifetime, I discovered incredible natural beauty that I could never get sick of. If you think of Arizona as an empty desert with nothing to do, think again!
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Fossil Creek in Coconino County
Hands down, my favorite place in Arizona! About two hours north of Tempe, this park is quite the adventure to reach. The drive to the parking area is extremely rocky, narrow, and overlooking a giant cliff. In other words: it’s terrifying! I promise, the view of the waterfall and the feeling of the crisp water is well worth it. Pack lunch and have a picnic. Bring a float and swim in the water. Be adventurous and jump from the top of the waterfall! *Be sure to check the website for closings. Go early as they turn people away if the parking lot fills up.
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Sedona Sedona is simply breathtaking. Drive around the area, or even take a hike through the Red Rocks. Ride a horse or take a Jeep Tour. There is a small town loaded with restaurants and shops worth checking out.
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Slide Rock State Park
Because who wouldn’t want to visit a natural waterside?! This is the perfect place to cool off in the desert heat. Be sure to bring supportive shoes with good grip, as the rocks are extremely slippery.
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Grand Canyon National Park Visiting Arizona and not making the trip to see the Grand Canyon would just be wrong on so many levels! There are many ways to experience this beautiful site. You can go and simply look at it, or plan ahead and hike in or around the canyon. Explore the Western side of the Grand Canyon, and walk along the clear skywalk. Each rim has something unique to offer.
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Salt River in Mesa
For about 25 dollars, you get an all day shuttle pass and tube rental. I would highly suggest splitting the cost with friends for an extra tube with a cooler attached for food and bags. There are 2-5 hour float options, so plan your day accordingly. Bring food and lots of water. Don’t forget sunscreen!
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, ARIZONA EATS
House of Tricks - Tempe
A trip to Arizona is simply incomplete without visiting this restaurant. Hidden beneath beautiful trees and flowers, this former house has been transformed into a unique little eatery. HoT is located just off Mill Ave, which is crowded with bars, restaurants, and shops. I strongly suggest the PB&J, which is nothing like the soggy sandwich your parents used to pack for your lunch. The Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is another favorite!
Casey Moore’s - Tempe Another hidden gem! This trendy little oyster bar is buried within the streets of Tempe. The interesting decor and incredible food make dining here a memorable experience.
D’Lish - Tempe and Scottsdale Who says “Fast Food” has to be greasy and unhealthy? Certainly not D’Lish! This drive-thru establishment uses strictly organic and all-natural ingredients to build delicious sandwiches, salads and burgers.
Cibo - Phoenix An urban pizzeria tucked away on a side street of Phoenix. This beautifully lit-up restaurant is a must see! The gourmet pizza from Cibo is heavenly. Additionally, there is a cozy fire pit to sit around while waiting for your table.
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,, Roam Through the Rockies Taylor’s Colorado Checklist
Around Denver: To Do Denver Art Museum; hands-on art making areas Larimer Square; picturesque plaza in downtown Denver Indian Hot Springs; geothermal cave baths Arapaho National Forest: hike/bike/drive up Mt. Evans Colorado Springs: visit Garden of the Gods
Denver: Eats Snooze; a retro A.M. eatery El Camino; cozy nightlife on 32nd avenue Beau Jo’s; dip your mountain pizza crust in honey Voodoo Doughnut; quirky doughnuts served 24/7 Atomic Cowboy; known for their homemade biscuits
Around Boulder: To Do Wonderland Lake Park; walk around a serene lake Chautauqua Trailhead; hike the Flatirons Pearl Street Mall; shopping, coffee, food, and bars Fiske Planetarium; late night laser shows
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Boulder: Eats Salt; farm to table American cuisine Pasta Jay’s; homestyle Italian dishes & warm atmosphere Press Play; arcade/bar combo with tons of appetizers West End Tavern; roof lounge with mountain views
VAIL, CO The road to Vail and the town itself made for a beautiful day-trip escape from the city. The Rocky Mountains are incredible to road trip through, and I was shocked that our tiny car made it up the steep grades on the mountainous highways! When in Vail, explore the quaint village which serves as base to many ski resorts, and multiple public parks nearby. If you have the chance, check out the weekend craft fairs!
GOLDEN, CO Golden is home to the infamous Buffalo Bill’s gravesite! The grave itself is quite impressive, but what held my attention most was the incredible viewpoint from the top of the Visitors Center. Here, you are surrounded by mountains on one side, and Denver’s skyline shows itself on the other. Make sure to check out the 100+ year old Bison and grab some homemade fudge inside the Visitors Center!
photographs & words by rebecca
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Delectable Donuts + Classy Coffee A USA Guide to Christina’s Favorite Dynamic Duo
DUCK DONUTS VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
UNCLE DOOD’S DONUTS TOM’S RIVER, NJ
DONUT FRIEND LOS ANGELES, CA 41
VOODOO DOUGHNUT PORTLAND, OR
DOUGH HUT LONG BEACH, NY
CALIFORNIA Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea - Go Get Em Tiger - Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - The French Press - The Naked Lounge Tea & Coffeehouse - Cafe Coda
LONG ISLAND The Witches Brew - Crazy Beans Brownstone’s Coffee - Mar Le Cafe The Roast Coffee & Tea Trading Co Massapequa Perk - The Cup Southdown Coffee
FLORIDA Downtown Credo - Propagation Barnie’s Coffee Kitchen
OREGON Street 14 Coffee - The Coffee Girl Heart Coffee & Roasting Coava Coffee Roasters
NYC / QNS / BKLYN Cafe 1 of a Kind - Toby’s Estate Coffee Double Dutch Espresso - Third Rail Coffee Zibetto Espresso Bar - Intelligentsia Coffee Blue Bottle Coffee - Birch Coffee Stumptown Coffee Roasters - Chalait Gasoline Alley Coffee - The Sweatshop AP Cafe - Brunswick Cafe - Ost Cafe
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Going Coastal
, Reasons to Road Trip Along the Atlantic Shoreline by Emily Domb
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Embarking on little getaways by way of Long Island, New York throughout the east coast has truly made me appreciate my own neck of the woods. Additionally, these mini road trips and weekend adventures make it easier to budget and plan without taking on the cost and duration of one expansive road trip. It wasn’t until recently that I had realized how much of the East Coast I have seen. Here are my recommendations for stops on your own East Coast Road Trip... 45
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Portland, ME Because the Victorian mansions and narrow cobblestone pathways make this small, dynamic American city all the rage. By traveling to Portland off season, the snow created a picturesque scene everywhere we turned. Becky’s Diner: Great for an inexpensive breakfast/brunch, with retro, old-fashioned flare. Head Light: A historic lighthouse that Portland
is free to enter during the wintertime. Make sure to bundle up, as there’s also a beautiful cliff walk! Old Port: Located along the piers, these 19th century brick buildings house many boutiques, restaurants and bars.
, Boston, MA
Because the oldest city in America has so much to offer. Incredible seafood, bustling marketplaces, and historic sights are just a few reasons to head to this revolutionary city. Chowda Co.: The award-winning clam chowder Boston and lobster rolls offer a taste of summer all year long.
Market: A marketplace consisting of shops Quincy
and restaurants within a red brick interior. Public Garden: Home to the famous “Good Will Hunting bench,” this park is located in the heart of Boston.
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Salem, MA Because the city’s atmosphere summons up a perfect mix of witchcraft, enchantment, and an abundance of Halloween spirit. Gulu-Gulu Cafe: Quaint coffeehouse offering an extensive menu and live music. Hawthorne Hotel: This place is notoriously known
for being haunted by a phantom women roaming the halls late at night... Old Burying Point Cemetery: Explore the oldest burial ground in Salem. Examine the faded headstones and learn about the history of the famous Witch Trials.
, South Norwalk & New Haven, CT Because it’s the gateway to gorgeous New England scenery and quiet suburbs - but at the same time is home to some of America’s most famed university towns. Local Kitchen and Craft Beer Bar (SoNo): Warm vibes with over 30 craft beers on tap. Book Trader Cafe (NH): Housing over 16,000
titles in stock, enjoy some good reads and good eats.
A Taste of Holland (SoNo): Your destination
for all things Dutch, including cheese, sweets, clothing, and souvenirs.
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New Hope, PA & Lambertville, NJ Because these two quaint, cozy towns are in two different states, yet are only separated by the Delaware River. New Hope & Ivyland Railroad (PA): A cafe and restaurant in restored 1920s passenger train cars.
Caffe Galleria (NJ): Enjoy their renowned gelato
in this converted home-turned-restaurant. Sneddon’s Luncheonette (NJ): Lambertville’s go-to place for brunch.
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South Carolina Because when you travel down the eastern seaboard, you’ll fall back in time where the weather is warmer and southern charm surrounds you. Charleston - Rainbow Row: A cluster of 13 colorful, historic Georgian row houses. - The Church of the Cross: Nestled Bluffton on a bluff, this church is an architectural delight.
Hilton Head - Mitchellville Freedom Park: Quiet park and secluded beach area on the sound.
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Savannah, GA Because it is known as the bad girl in town, and has been referred to as ‘a beautiful lady with a dirty face.’ Savannah brings two sides to the table with their gorgeous Colonial mansions and thick, lush swamps. Forsyth Park: A large park containing a historic fountain and a Confederate memorial. SandFly BBQ: With an abundance of zesty sauces,
their BBQ sensibilities fit right in with the Lowcountry. They grill ‘em up like their grandparents made ‘em. Jekyll Island - Driftwood Beach: Outside of the city, you’ll find a unique beach which resembles a distinctive tree graveyard.
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Miami & Marco Island, FL
Because the bougieness of Miami will have you dancing ‘till dawn, and Marco Island is a retreat to the relaxing Gulf beaches.
Miami - Art Deco House District: This kitschy, preserved array of colorful 1930s-1940s buildings gives the city a brand. Miami Everglades Airboat Adventure:
Cruise through the humid Everglade ecosystem as you take in panoramic views and tranquil nature. Marco Island - Doreen’s Cup of Joe: Enjoy remarkable brunch food such as key lime pancakes and cannoli stuffed french toast.
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Yosemite National Park, California Oil painting by Taylor Foerster
photograph by Rebecca Lader
Meet Virginia From the Mountains to the Shore and Everything In Between by Christina Kmetz
Native New Yorkers such as myself are brought up to believe that there is no better place than New York; more specifically New York City. I grew up feeling like there was no other place I could call “home.� Seemingly nothing could provide the comforts of home like I had felt New York always did. Sure - there is nothing in this world quite like New York, but this can be said about any place. As you grow up, you embark on your own journeys to explore. Along the way, you encounter new people and experience different places. You realize how wrong you were. Virginia is a place that has slowly, but surely become a second home to me. In addition to quite a few remarkable cities and landmarks, it has a certain charm which gives it a uniqueness of its own.
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Norfolk Walking through vast fields of green in the Norfolk Botanical Gardens is one thing I’d highly recommend while visiting this city. Bright colored flowers overtake the you as take in all of the garden’s natural beauty. I was fortunate enough to see Long Island’s very own Brand New perform at the NorVa. The floor vibrated as the whole room stood, everyone standing shoulder to shoulder, if not closer. We all screamed the lyrics in unison at the top of our lungs. It felt like home. EAT: Machismo Burrito Bar COFFEE: Cure Coffeehouse and Brasserie NOTEWORTHY: Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue
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Virginia Beach Where it all began. I stepped off the bus and was greeted with open arms and a plan of action. With each visit back, I have been to unique places that only exist at the Beach. Mount Trashmore Park, for example, happens to stick out to me. It is a city park that was created by converting an abandoned landfill into a recreational place. Another staple landmark is the boardwalk, but more importantly, the pier at 15th Street. Though one might compare it to other beach town boardwalks, I always find myself looking forward to my next visit. EAT: O’Yummy Sushi COFFEE: Bad Ass Coffee NOTEWORTHY: Doc Taylor’s, and Vinyl Daze Records
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Richmond First stop in Richmond has never changed. We park in the historic neighborhood of Oregon Hill, and walk through the doorway into Vinyl Conflict. You are guaranteed to spend more time in this record store than anticipated. There is a wide variety of vinyl, tapes, CDs to keep you perusing for hours. During the warmer seasons, take a dip in the refreshing James River at Belle Isle. Jump off the rocks, swim with the current, and float on your back while you stare up at blue skies. EAT: 821 Cafe The Lab by Alchemy Coffee COFFEE: NOTEWORTHY: Sugar Shack Donuts, and Lakeside Tattoo Co.
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Shenandoah National Park After sitting in the back seat of a 1970 Ford Maverick for 4 hours, I was beyond thrilled to get out, stretch my legs and start hiking. The view upon entering Shenandoah National Park was one of the most stunning I have seen. The Maverick worked hard to make it up the inclines, and we soon made it to the beginning of the Stony Man Summit hike. Craig, Nick and I came prepared for the beauty we were about to encounter, walking slowly with cameras around each of our necks. Whenever I hike, I seem to have the same experience: walk a bit, take plenty of photographs and question if I’m actually going the right way. This time was no different. Luckily, the hike was only a couple of short miles and there we were, standing at the edge of a picturesque cliff. TIPS: - Get there as early in the day as possible. We arrived a lot later than we expected and could only hike two trails. - Wear a good pair of shoes. If you plan on being there all day, Vans or Converse won’t cut it. - Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you energized all day!
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,, Grab Grub in the PNW Take a Bite Out of the Great Pacific Northwest
Fat Ducks Deli & Bakery - Seattle, WA
Owned and operated by New Jersey native Jaclyn, FD’s serves up incredible bagel sandwiches and many tasty treats! Jaclyn was kind enough to give us a couple of pecan bars on the house, which were to die for. The pastrami is imported from New York, and much of the ingredients are homemade! -Rebecca
Oddfellows Cafe + Bar - Seattle, WA Located in the Capitol Hill area of Seattle, this brick-walled restaurant has both a modern vibe and atmosphere as well as a variety of flavorful meals. Beginning with breakfast at 8AM and closing between 12AM and 2AM with late-night refreshments, you can’t go wrong with this multi-purpose space. -Christina
Alibi Room - Seattle, WA We stumbled upon The Alibi Room, quaintly hidden right beneath Pike Place Market. This bar/ restaurant had delicious, inexpensive small dishes including pita & hummus and cheese platters. Added bonus - the waitstaff was kind (and good-looking). -Brittany
Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill - Portland, OR What a treat it was to stumble upon this Pub after a long bike ride. We were tired, hungry and extremely pleased to munch on some delicious brick-oven baked soft pretzels with ale fondue sauce, warm artichoke spinach dip, and mouthwatering cheeseburgers. Our waitress even recommended a place for us to go out at night: NE Alberta Street is lined with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. -Taylor
,, Film Locations: Twin Peaks Washington With Rebecca - Where the Owls Are Not What They Seem
Salish Lodge AKA “The Great Northern” in Snoqualmie
Audrey Horne’s stomping grounds and home of the incredibly picturesque Snoqualmie Falls serves as the exterior for the opening shot during the show intro credits. Hike the surrounding trails to the foot of the falls for a different perspective.
Twede’s Cafe AKA the “Double R Diner” in North Bend It’s not an authentic visit to Twin Peaks without stopping by the place pies go when they die. Though Twede’s suffered a fire and no longer has the same interior, it’s still worth it to sit down for a damn fine cup of coffee.
Where the Buffalo Roam A Hot Summer Day in Yellowstone National Park by Rebecca Lader
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After a long and tiresome overnight drive from Seattle, I woke up to the smell of gas station egg sandwiches. We had arrived in Madison, Montana. Our visit took place on a cloudless summer day in July, and the volcanic activity beneath the earth only added to the sweltering heat. Upon entering Yellowstone from the west, we were immediately blown away by the dramatic landscape. We pulled off the road to watch the smoke billowing out of the ground.
GRAND PRISMATIC SPRING
Each of us walked along the wooden paths above bubbling liquid at our own pace, taking in our first sight of Yellowstone. Still exhausted from the fifteen hour drive, I made my way around the hot springs in a dreamy daze. The vibrant blue water and potent smell (like that of rotten eggs) struck my senses hard, and I was no longer sleepwalking.
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Now incredibly eager to explore, we set out on the next drive and soon arrived at the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest in the world of its kind. Long, wooden boardwalks extended out over rainbow-colored algae, sitting atop the bluest waters I’ve ever seen. We stood at the edge of the pool, feeling the spring’s steam kissing our faces. I was awestruck by its vivid colors and impressive size. It would be a dream come true to swim in such beautiful pools, but most of the springs boil at an unforgiving 150°F.
OLD FAITHFUL GEYSER
Yellowstone sits above a large volcanic caldera, housing half of the world’s geysers. Five miles south of the Grand Prismatic Spring, we waited patiently for Old Faithful to erupt, which it does religiously (approximately) every ninety minutes. A tour guide explained to us that all of the constant thermal activity that goes on in Yellowstone - the geysers, hot springs, mud pots, etc - indicate that the earth is releasing the pressure below us. Thousands of mini earthquakes occur here each year, but most are not large enough to be felt by visitors. Not to worry: the possibility of the supervolcano below the park erupting and causing catastrophic destruction is unlikely to occur for at least a solid ten thousand years.
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FIREHOLE RIVER
At the end of a hot summer day, we wanted nothing more than to go for a swim. At first, we were unsure of if we would find any water at a low enough temperature to swim in. However, some new friends we made at Old Faithful told us to make sure we didn’t skip Firehole River. The name didn’t sound promising in regards to our goal, but we didn’t want to sleep on it after it was so highly recommended. A long line of cars parked along a hill was where we joined the line-up and switched out our sneakers for flip flops. At the edge of the hill, we descended some small cliffs to find the river. We knew we were in the right place. Signs along the beach read “NO CLIFF DIVING,” yet it seemed to be the most popular activity among our fellow visitors. The current was actually quite strong, so if you are planning on visiting, I would evaluate your swimming skills before heading downstream or cliff diving. It felt incredible to submerge ourselves in water so pure and refreshing.
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FRANK THE BISON
Looking back on our road trip, I can’t imagine skipping Yellowstone along our adventure. When I think of the “Great American Road Trip,” I now think of Yellowstone as being a quintessential destination. It’s vastness and breathtaking terrain only add to the diversity of our country’s landscape.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: • Plan your drives accordingly, as most national parks take at least a few hours
to drive through straight from one side to another. If you are not knowledgeable and prepared beforehand, you may not have enough time to explore.
• Respect the wildlife. While exiting the east end of the park, we encountered a
bison along the road. Coming from suburban Long Island, I felt exhilarated to see such an amazing animal so close to us. We named him Frank, snapped some photos from the car, and continued on our separate journeys.
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Meet the ladies
,, Roadie
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a creative travel collective
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Rebecca Lader
Travel playlist: Souls of Mischief - Step To My Girl Death Cab For Cutie - Little Wanderer My Bloody Valentine - Drive It All Over Me
Taylor Foerster Travel playlist: Warpaint - Biggy Jawbreaker - Boxcar Led Zeppelin - Ramble On
Christina Kmetz Travel playlist: Oasis - Morning Glory Alvvays - Adult Diversion Mac DeMarco - Treat Her Better
Emily Domb Travel playlist: Good Old War - Coney Island The High Highs - Ocean To City Sleigh Bells ft. Tink - That Did It
Brittany Appel Travel playlist: Jamie xx - Loud Places Tame Impala - Let It Happen A Tribe Called Quest - Award Tour
Amanda Stevens Travel playlist: Radiohead - Itioteque Mumford & Sons - The Wolf The Head & The Heart - Down In The Valley
est 2014
Thank you
,, to all who have supported Roadie thus far
We’d love to thank Madewell of the Walt Whitman Mall in Huntington, New York, for graciously hosting the Roadie Zine: Issue 1 release party. Thank you to EF Tours for recognizing Roadie’s potential, and being a constant source of inspiration. We can’t wait to book our next tour!
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Many thanks to Elsie Alonso for being our interviewee for Issue 2, and providing us with your beautiful photographs and helpful information!
Our blog lives here: roadiezine.com Instagram/Twitter: @roadiezine
Facebook: facebook.com/roadiezine YouTube: youtube.com/user/roadiezine
“Roadie Zine: Issue 2” was edited by Rebecca Lader and Taylor Foerster. Photographs by Rebecca Lader appear throughout the zine, but may not be credited.
Some people say home is where you come from. But I think it’s a place you need to find, like it’s scattered and you pick pieces of it up along the way.
- Katie Kacvinsky
Roadie Zine June 2015
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Issue 2