Although I will miss Long Beach dearly, my path has lead me to the weirdest city in the US: Austin, Texas.
I have already been reminded why I love this city, with its never-ending list of things to experience, fantastical food options, and Midwestern-like charm that I’m so familiar with as an Iowa transplant.
Of course, I couldn’t make a move halfway across the country without making a little road trip of it! So, moving truck already in tow, I fit as much as I could in my car and left with my dog without looking back. I made it a point to explore places I’d never been and challenge myself a little. The trip totaled over 1,800 miles (a length I was strangely used to covering) and would have been about 28 hours of just driving had I not stopped and explored. I visited:
1. Long Beach, CA
I departed home with a goodbye to my beloved Hamburger Mary's, Ahimsa Vegan Cafe, and a view of the sunset one last time.
2. Irvine, CA
I met a bestie for our last pho and boba date until we meet again! Shoutout Pho Ha Noi for allowing us to have so many memories.
3. Joshua Tree, CA
My favorite Airbnb yet—a retro Airstream on an artist’s compound in Yucca Valley called Mare Tranquilitatis. This pushed me and my little Prius to drive through the actual desert, but totally worth it. I stayed two nights here to fully experience the six acres (and the amazing hot tub and pool), but it definitely wasn’t enough time. The unpolluted stargazing opportunity is something you need to experience. The space was so creative and so were all of my fellow visitors. The host Tao has thoughtfully created a place where you can just shut off from the world and be inspired. 10/10 would recommend staying here or another converted van/camper/container on the compound.
4. Williams, AZ
I traveled down Route 66 for about six hours, saw some really odd things, but eventually landed at a cheap hotel only to get some shut eye for the next big day. I highly recommend stocking up on some electrolytes for this trip—sometimes I would go many hours before finding a place to stop for refreshments.
5. Grand Canyon
I woke up at 3:00am, drank cheap hotel coffee, and drove myself an hour to Mather Point with my camera and gear to catch sunrise. I was not a happy camper up until the point when the sun peaked its head over the terrain… again, totally worth it. Other bloggers and reviews will tell you that either sunset or sunrise are best for photos, but I will highly suggest you beat the crowd before 5:30am (depending on time of year) and try to reach sunrise. You will not regret having the freedom of taking photos without having to edit strangers out of the background. Plus, it just set the tone for a beautiful day ahead.
6. Sedona, AZ
I drove south for two hours met my friend at Bell Rock Vortex after a gratifying morning with the intention of having a little picnic. The sun had other plans (scorching us to death with 110 degrees and rising) so we quickly took pictures and headed on into Sedona proper for some shopping. We had such a blast stopping in all of the crystal shops, Tibetan stores, and at a new-found favorite vegan and gluten-free diet friendly eatery: ChocolaTree.
7. Phoenix, AZ
I stayed three nights at an Airbnb near my friends (with a pool required of course because again… the heat). We spent an entire day shopping in Old Town Scottsdale and I probably left with an entire duffel bag full of goodies. I ended up carrying Ali in a doggy backpack because the cement was too hot for her paws. Three nights was a perfect for me because all of the driving in the heat was starting to wear on us.
8. El Paso, TX
I left early morning for a 6.5 hour drive straight to El Paso—passing AZ, NM, and TX state lines and through border patrol. I planned on stopping in Tucson for some food and views but I was just ready for a recharge at the hotel at this point. Luckily, I’m a pro at feeding myself on the road and had plenty of items to make a makeshift chaat.
9. Marfa, TX
I made a bit of a detour to Marfa as recommended by family, but I’m so glad I did. I stayed in a swanky hotel called Hotel Saint George and saw all sorts of things that left my head scratching. Whether it was the Prada store in the middle of a desert, UFO murals, or the quirky shops on the square, this town reminded me of my small-town Iowa roots if the towns were located on Mars. I walked away with some great photos and a few souvenirs I’ve placed around the house.
10. Austin, TX
Another 6.5 hours driving and I’ve made it! I was welcomed by my uncle and fresh enchiladas. What better way is there to be introduced to your new home?
And for now, Austin is home.
I’m very happy with how the move turned out and I’m excited for what Austin brings. I’d like to hear what you think of my roadtrip! Would you have stopped anywhere else? Where should I go next?
