Classic Route 66 Motels Round-Up: The Best Still in Business

Cruising Route 66 is basically an American rite of passage.

I’d also argue that staying at a few old-school motels along the way is also part of the magic. Hundreds of lodgings dot the highways and byways that head west from Chicago.

Seeing a motel’s neon sign read ‘Vacany’ at the end of a long day on Route 66 is a sign that it’s time to turn in. (And time for a warm meal.)

Some of these motels are still as iconic as they were back in the road trip’s heyday. Their neon is as bright as ever, their rooms tidy and their (often themed) restaurants open for business.

Let’s explore some of the most classic Route 66 motels, starting in Illinois and ending in Arizona.

Classic Route 66 Motels

Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center

Springfield, IL

Springfield is a great place to stop on your first night on Route 66. Not only is the larger city a great place to make any last-minute purchases, but it’s also chock-full of eateries and nightlife.

The Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center is also a solid introduction to the world of motels. It’s larger than the standard fare that you’ll find farther west—and even includes a themed Route 66 pool.

Munger Moss Motel

Lebanon, MO

From its signage to its satin pillowcases, the Munger Moss Motel is a seasoned lodging that’s served Route 66ers for decades. It’s even got a neon-lit gift shop for those who want to take home a few route-themed souvenirs.

What I really like about the Munger Moss Motel is its sense of pride. The motel has served passers-through for over thirty years—and staff love what they do. They’re on-site to interact with drivers, give them recommendations as they continue on their way, and offer some of that country hospitality that means so much to road-weary travelers.

Chelsea Motor Inn

Chelsea, OK

Even the upholstery is Route 66-themed! This fully classic Route 66 stay is a master class in fanfare. Once again, the décor here is a sign that staff take their jobs seriously.

They don’t just want to give travelers a place to rest at night. They want to give them the full Route 66 service, which means showering behind a Route 66 shower curtain, turning on Route 66 lamps, and falling asleep to the whir of passing cars outside.

Desert Hills Motel

Tulsa, OK

With its gargantuan neon lights, it’s hard to miss the Desert Hills Motel in Tulsa. Fit with a bright green cactus, this lodging physically stands out amongst other Tulsa motels.

You’ll notice that cactus motif throughout the grounds—including as tiled mosaics in the bathrooms. There are also plenty of retro callbacks throughout, including its mini-fridges.

Big Texan

Amarillo, TX

You’ll notice that this motel isn’t quite like the others—mostly thanks to its slightly elevated room décor, which features natural wood features and bright bedspreads. It’s a decidedly rustic and Texan feel.

The exterior has a wonderful paint job that looks like a Wild West town center, along with a large outdoor pool. Nearby, guests can also eat at the Big Texan Steakhouse—a classic Amarillo establishment.

Blue Swallow

Tucumcari, NM

With a full five-star rating based on over 2,000 reviews, the Blue Swallow in Tucumcari is by far the highest-rated Route 66 motel in the United States.

And it’s not hard to see why. From its retro neon signage to its color palette and range of vintage cars, it offers a glimpse into the past.

As with other Route 66 favorites, there’s plenty of fanfare available for Route 66ers. But there’s a modern design thread throughout, which beautifully modernizes the old Route 66 atmosphere while keeping all the more soulful elements of this American pastime.

Wigwam Motel

Holbrook, AZ

Vintage cars and towering teepees dot the grounds of the Wigwam Motel. From its bedding to its tipi-styled rooms, the Wigwam is a clear sign that Route 66 has entered Arizona.

If you’re into kitschy design and alternative lodgings, look no further. The Wigwam might be a little dated, but it’s a classic Route 66 choice for a reason.

Earl’s Rt 66 Motor Court

Winslow, AZ

This straightforward motel hits the two most important elements of a Route 66 hotel: it’s clean and it’s themed. (I also love the bedspreads.)

Guests get the neon signage they’ve come to expect along the route, along with a bevy of classy Route 66 callbacks. Someone in the reviews described it as ‘pure Americana’, and I agree!

The Best Under-Seat Carry-Ons

Looking for superlight carry-ons? They’re out there.

What about rolling backpacks? You can find those, too.

The same for rolling carry-ons, duffel bags, weekenders, and more.

There’s a luggage option for every type of traveler out there—and dozens of unique brands are taking a stab at crafting a great suitcase. (Mine’s from Muji, if you were curious.)

One of the reasons I’ve been covering carry-ons in such great detail is the ever-changing, ever-unpredictable nature of carry-on restrictions.

In other words: The more versatile the carry-on, the more likely you are to face fewer hiccups at the boarding gate.

In terms of truly portable and dynamic carry-ons, the under-seat option can’t be beaten.

Not only are these carry-ons designed for easy packing, but they’re also guaranteed to fit under the seat in front of you when that overhead cabin space mysteriously disappears.

Before I cover the best under-seat carry-ons, let me highlight the design of these small-but-mighty luggage options.

Features of under-seat carry-ons

You guessed it—these suitcases are built to fit perfectly under the seat in front of you.

Though you’ll need to say goodbye to foot space, you can guarantee a lightweight piece with a capacity of up to 35L.

The best under-seat carry-ons also include features like built-in pockets and compartments. They’re built from sturdy materials and designed for a bit of wear.

Most are also under two pounds to help you maximize packing space.

Best under-seat carry-ons

Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Calpak has a cult-like following in the luggage world—and I’m starting to sip on that cool aid!

This tiny carry-on has multiple interior pockets for easier storing. I also love that it has a standard shape and design as a regular carry-on or checked piece of luggage.

If you need any more convincing, the Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On is a favorite amongst flight attendants. When they’re off-duty, they still might get a spot on a plane—but they’ll board last. The Calpak Hue Mini guarantees their carry-on fits even if the overhead space is taken.

Buy here

Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater

Rockland is a budget brand that offers a multifunctional under-seat option.

The soft-shell bag includes handles that make it easy to carry by hand. It has two mesh side pockets for bottles and other items. The interior also includes a mesh divider and small pockets.

While it’s not the most high-quality option, especially in terms of its zippers, travelers are raving about this suitcase. Not only is ergonomic and easy to roll or carry, but it’s also more spacious than many anticipated.

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Samsonite Spinner Underseater

This soft-shell option has multi-directional spinners for those who like seamless lugging.

Its exterior pocket is also convenient for storing important items. Inside, you also have three separate compartments for laptops and tablets. There’s even an integrated port where you can easily set up a USB charger.

Overall, the Samsonite Spinner Underseat is a stellar option. However, it’s billed as ‘fits under most airline seats’, which isn’t a strong guarantee for those who overpack or for airlines with slashed seat sizes.

Buy here

Air Porter Carry-On Bag

This alternative option doesn’t have rolling capabilities—meaning you need to be comfortable lugging it by its handles or shoulder straps.

That being said, this item has a great interior pocket with a handful of helpful compartments. That includes a secondary compartment with a laptop sleeve and pockets designed for storing cords.

The Air Porter Carry-On also includes a suspension strap that makes it easy to connect to rolling suitcases. Additionally, it’s small enough that it shouldn’t take up the entire space underneath the seat in front of you.

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Kenneth Cole Reaction Underseater

This hardy under-seat carry-on is one of the most durable options on the market—which I think is worth considering given the amount of time it will spend on the floor. (Near your shoes.)

Its pockets and zippers are also designed for rough-and-tumble trips. Even its handle can be hidden in a pocket.

I also like that the Reaction Underseater has compression straps—something that is usually slashed from smaller suitcases.

There’s also tech storage and plenty of interior pockets for easy packing. Despite its slightly larger size, the Kenneth Cole Underseater apparently fits on most airlines—even smaller jets.

Buy here

Couples Only: Most Romantic Hotels in Florida

Florida is a hotspot thanks to its subtropical beaches, warm weather, and distinct cities.

It’s also a top choice for families. Whether taking the kids to Orlando for an amusement park adventure to escaping to a more private option like Black’s Island, Florida’s offerings are truly diverse.

But it’s not only geared toward families and large groups.

Florida is also a top choice for couples looking for an intimate getaway; it’s cheaper than Hawaii, sunnier than the Carolinas, and closer than the Caribbean.

In fact, Florida has just about everything that couples could look for in a romantic retreat—including dreamy, glamorous hotels.

Looking for a place to unwind in the Sunshine State? Here are the most romantic hotels in Florida.

Most romantic hotels in Florida

1 Hotel South Beach, Miami

If you’re looking to enjoy one of the US’s most unique cities, Miami, then romance won’t be hard to find.

I vote you book a stay at 1 Hotel South Beach, which is located directly on a 600-foot portion of Miami Beach. That makes for some pretty scenic views from both the hotel rooms and the massive outdoor pool.

(There’s also a second rooftop pool in case you want a better bird’s eye view of the city and shoreline.)

The hotel offers a pretty standard design with some eco-friendly features. The staff is highly rated, which should help you pursue any of your romantic dreams while staying at the hotel.

Plus, there’s a full-range spa for any couples treatments you’d like to sample.

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The Goodtime Hotel, Miami

The Goodtime Hotel, a South Beach gem, is your second choice in romantic Miami stays.

The primary difference between these two Miami selections is the boutique vibe at the Goodtime Hotel. Its design is tropical and bright, which I think adds a dash of wonder and brilliance to any romantic retreat. (Seriously—it almost feels like a Wes Anderson vision.)

I love the oasis vibe at the Goodtime Hotel. There are even parties at the pool that showcase Miami’s amazing music and nightlife.

Some reviewers have noted that the rooms were a bit small for their liking, just in case you want a little room to romp around with your lover.

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Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale

Hyatt Centric is one of the hotel chain’s coolest brands.

Centric hotels put a tasteful emphasis on the city where they’re located, usually incorporating artwork and design elements from local artists.

At Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll notice elements like the massive graffiti mural framing its outdoor pool. Another noteworthy element is that Las Olas is within walking distance of the city’s biggest attractions.

That makes it easy for couples who want to take it easy to also get out on the town. But let’s not forget its chicer offerings, like its rooftop pool and its in-house speakeasy, Room 901.

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The Gasparilla Inn and Club, Boca Grande

Located at the ocean’s edge, the Gasparilla Inn and Club is like a country club dreamscape.

Its pool feels larger than life and its design is a perfect balance between colonial architecture and Caribbean interior. Its wallpapered rooms are both whimsical and austere.

I could go on and on attempting to describe the Gasparilla Inn and Club. But here’s the short of it: it delivers hospitality, photo-worthy backdrops like its pool and full golf course, and has been described as an ‘experience of a lifetime’ by one recent guest.

Need I say more? Find your lover and disappear at the Gasparilla before everyone finds out about this place.

Book here

The Breakers, Palm Beach

If you’ve traveled to Palm Beach, you’ve probably noticed this larger-than-life hotel.

Located on 140 acres of oceanfront property, it’s almost impossible to miss. The Breakers almost feels like Las Vegas’s Venetian in terms of scale and design—which I mean in the best way possible.

Guests are treated to a resort-style stay that includes on-site dining, two full golf courses, boutique shopping, a full-service spa, private beach access, multiple pools, an extensive winery, and more.

Just make sure to avoid peak season, as prices hike at The Breakers, and the grounds fill up to an unromantic level. (For my tastes, at least! Social butterfly couples might enjoy the buzz.)

Book here

Best Small Towns Around Houston for a Retreat

Houston is one of the US’s largest cities.

In terms of population, Houston comes behind New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Is anyone else surprised to learn that there are more people in Houston than San Francisco, Miami, Boston, and other high-profile metropolises?

That spike in population is partly due to a rise in Fortune 500 companies.

Houston does some seriously big business. In fact, its GDP is the seventh-highest in the world.

For city slickers, that’s a great thing. But for more country-living Texans who like a friendly atmosphere and small-town feel, Houston’s growing size can feel overwhelming.

Are you a Houston local looking to get out of the big city for a weekend (or two)?

Lucky for you, you’ve got options all over the state.

But for now, let’s stick to the best small towns around Houston—no cross-state journeys needed.

Magnolia

Magnolia is located on the edge of Houston’s metropolitan boundaries—but you won’t notice any relationship to the big city here.

The town takes its name from the number of magnolia trees dotting its perimeter. That’s. a plus for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

You’ll notice quite a few on the winding Magnolia Scenic Byway. In terms of town activities, guests enjoy the Magnolia Historical Society Museum, which covers the area’s history and heritage.

Magnolia also hosts the Texas Renaissance Festival—which recently celebrated its 50^th anniversary.

Columbus

Columbus is a picturesque small town that has plenty of history and natural beauty.

If you’re a fan of live oaks, then you’ll have plenty of mature trees to hug throughout the city. (Or admire from a distance.)

Visitors also enjoy the old-school architecture and well-preserved main street. Locals have gone above and beyond to maintain the unique heritage of Columbus—and you’re guaranteed to notice that on a visit.

Locals like to chat about what makes their town special, and travelers regularly rank Columbus as one of the friendliest small towns in Texas.

Richmond

Similar to Magnolia, you don’t need to entirely leave Houston behind to enjoy Richmond.

This spot is a powerhouse of Texas history, home to Jane Long, considered the Mother of Texas, and Walter Moses Burton, the US’s first Black man to be elected sheriff.

Unsurprisingly, you can find plenty of historical landmarks and museums thanks to this past. But it’s also home to plenty of other exciting activities, from paintballing to wineries and breweries.

Anahuac

Close to the border with Louisiana is Anahuac, one of Houston’s most endearing and unique small-town escapes.

Nature is the primary appeal in Ahanuac. The area is home to a 30,000-acre wildlife refuge, which is a sought-after spot for bird watchers and gator hunters.

Given the aquatic nature of the Anahuac (it’s swampy, y’all), this isn’t the best place for relaxing hikes. But it’s a top-notch spot for digging deeper into the South’s natural wonders, especially if you take a guided tour through the refuge.

Bandera

Who wouldn’t want to visit the Cowboy Capital of the World?

As you may have guessed, all things Wild West reign in this town. Visitors stumble upon things like cattle drives and rodeos with great frequency. There’s also plenty of fanfare in the way of museums.

Even if you’re not super attracted to cowboy culture, Bandera will surprise you. Guests can explore related things like horseback riding and even hunting excursions.

Or totally unrelated activities like winery tours, brewery tours, live music, and disc golf—just to name a few.

Best Times to Book Holiday Flights According to Google

Want to talk about holiday miracles?

Google recently released ‘Our 2024 travel trends—right in time for the holidays’.

You guessed it—the article covers travel tips for this coming holiday season.

Google is leveraging its data power to uncover helpful insights related to air travel. As one of the best new emerging flight resources, its Google Flights platform has helped drive new air travel insights.

(In case you’re late to the party, I recommend using Google Flights and Booking.com to find great flight deals. It’s the most seamless airfare booking process I’ve encountered in years—and one of the most affordable.)

So, what do you actually need to take away from Google’s new travel trends article?

I’m sugar-picking the most applicable pieces of advice and insights that relate to this upcoming holiday season.

The basics of booking flights—as per Google

First, let me briefly cover the five tips that Google outlines to help you save money while booking through their Google Flights platform.

It’s pretty basic, but it covers the most important elements of flight booking.

Here they are:

If don’t know where you want to travel, use the Explore map (on Google Flights) to identify the cheapest routes around the world.
If your travel dates are also flexible, use the Google Flights date grid and price graph to identify when the cheapest flights are available.
Include multiple airports in your search. That includes airports in a single city or regional options that are close by.
Set up price tracking alerts so that you’re notified if there’s a sudden price drop.

Best times to book holiday flights according to Google

Now, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of how you can save by selecting the best times to book holiday flights according to Google.

Keep in mind that these suggestions are based on hard data collection from Google, meaning this advice is based on averages. In other words—its general and is likely to change depending on your location.

Still, these tips should help you save when booking holiday flights:

Book a domestic flight 38 days before take-off—that’s when flights are the cheapest, according to the data.
Book an international flight 101 days before departure. If that’s too far out, you can stick to booking 50 days out—they’ll start to rise sharply after that 50-day marker.
Book Thanksgiving flights 45 days before departure. If that’s too specific, try to book Thanksgiving flights between 26-59 days out. That’s in early October.
Book Christmas flights 58 days before departure. If that’s too specific, try to book Christmas flights between 36-72 days out. That’s in late October.

Best Berkshires Cottages: Rentals You’ll Come Back To

If you wanted to argue that the Berkshires are New England’s best-kept gem, I’d agree.

To be fair, it might not be considered a hidden gem given its large size and well-respected reputation. The Berkshires, in case you’ve missed out, are a hilly and forested region located in Western Massachusetts and parts of Connecticut.

The Berkshires are actually a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s known for its \mature forests. In fact, it’s one of The Nature Conservancy’s 12 Last Great Places.

Aside from its lovely natural setting, the Berkshires are known for their historical and cultural small towns, unique community events and festivals, summer theatre performances, modern art museums, and luxury dining and shopping options.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every trip I’ve taken to the Berkshires. (Except for the ticks—though that’s a New England-wide issue.)

Not only were these trips full of small-town whimsy and relaxing forest strolls, but there was also a proud and dedicated sense of ownership over each locale.

The homes, in particular, caught my attention.

From modern ranches to stately mansions to snug cottages, the Berkshires have it all. But if you want to get the most out of your Berkshires trip, I suggest staying in a cozier abode.

Here are the best Berkshire cottages that you’ll want to come back to.

Best Berkshires cottages

Best family pick: Entire Cottage in Canaan

This cottage has everything you need for a great glimpse into life in the Berkshires—including a lakefront location on Queechy Lake.

In warmer months, you can take advantage of the dock and swimming area. In colder months, you can curl up on the deck to enjoy the forest with a fire crackling at your feet.

Though it’s ideal for families (the rental sleeps six in three rooms), it’s also great for those who like to fish or otherwise get out on the water.

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Best classic feel: Netherwood – North Adams Guest House

North Adams is one of the best places to be in the Berkshires if you want to enjoy community events in one of its most picturesque small towns.

The Netherwood cottage isn’t too bad, either. Its interior has a classic, low-key cottage design, while its exterior has iconic red panels. If you love that Americana feel, here’s your perfect cottage pick.

The home’s deck is perfectly situated to let you soak up views of the rolling hills straight from the backyard. There’s also a fire pit with plenty of seating.

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Best location: Private Paradise

This tiny stay has only three rooms—a basic living room, bedroom, and bathroom.

Despite the limited space, it’s highly rated by guests. Part of that high rating is thanks to its location near Berkshires hot spots like Jacob’s Pillow and Tanglewood.

I think guests also appreciate the plot’s natural wonders. This cottage feels incredibly private thanks to its forest coverage. There’s also a stream that runs straight through the backyard—perfect for your Walden Pond-esque reflections.

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Coziest cottage: The Sail Loft

This home dates back to 1850—which surprised me given its modern, cozy design.

What I love is that this spot doesn’t feel dated or overly formal. It feels very lived-in, which I enjoy in a more rural stay like this.

Guests are also located in the heart of the Berkshires, giving them access to plenty of activities. Along with town events, guests can explore Jiminy Peak, Mount Greylock, and Mass MoCA in just a short drive.

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Most remote cottage: Off Grid Yurt

It’s not a cottage—it’s a yurt. Surprise, surprise!

While I wasn’t too taken with the visual appeal of the yurt’s exterior, this rustic stay has all the finer trappings you’d expect from a Berkshires rental. The interior is spacious, includes a kitchen, and even has a wood stove.

Best of all, it’s located in a remote forest. That means that there’s thick coverage all around the yurt, offering a truly private stay in Mother Nature.

The only catch is that the bathroom is a compost toilet—but I’d happily accept this bathroom setup in exchange for such a remote feel and unique construction.

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Most historical cottage: Stone School Cottage

This historical cottage was first built back in 1832 as a schoolhouse—and it functioned as one all the way up until 1950.

Its owners have since transformed the space into a bright and open cottage. But this rental still retains original features like its cobbled stone walls, chalkboards, and hardwood floors.

The setup is a little unique, as there’s a second floor that functions like a studio apartment. But if you’re a fan of historical stays, then that’s not likely to be a problem.

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Best modern cottage: The Yellow Lakefront

Don’t want to stay in a schoolhouse from the 1800s? That’s understandable.

Can I interest you in a modern lakefront cottage instead? This rental includes a private deck and kayaks right on its lake. Inside, you can find all the modern amenities you’d expect from a four-star hotel.

There’s also plenty of outdoor space that makes this rental great for Berkshires first-timers. Even the sunroom is perfect for enjoying lakeside vistas no matter the time of year.

Book here