Episode 41 – Uncommon U.S. Destinations
Special Guest
Johnny Jet – Travel Expert, Writer
Website: www.johnnyjet.com
Social: @JohnnyJet
About: Johnny Jet is an avid traveler who aims to share his knowledge with other travelers. He created a website and travel newsletter to share his expertise. His website www.johnnyjet.com is the place where travel experts share their tips and expertise to make you the expert. It’s also a place to have fun, explore, learn, and just kick back.
Colleen & Catie’s Picks for Uncommon U.S. Destinations
Colleen
Destination: Boise, Idaho
Accommodations: The Grove Hotel – Centrally located in downtown Boise. Has a Heated Indoor Pool, Free Airport Shuttle, Fitness Center & Spa
Restaurant: Fork – Trendy restaurant with farm-to-table American dishes and craft cocktails in a vibrant, brick-&-wood atmosphere.
Activities: Skiing, bike riding, rafting or kayaking – Very outdoorsy!
When to visit: Between March and May- Ideal temps for outdoor activities.
Cost of flights: Starting around $300 around March – May
Airport to fly into: Boise International Airport (quick, inexpensive Uber to downtown)
How to get around: Shuttle from airport to a lot of the hotels. If you’re staying downtown, you don’t need to rent a car and can just take Ubers. If you want to go out of downtown, might need to rent a car.
Any other tips? Not as many non-stop flight options, but once you get there the downtown area is very walkable.
Catie
Destination: Annapolis, Maryland
Accommodations: Historic Inns of Annapolis – Comprised of three historic, 18th century buildings with Victorian character with modern amenities. Within walking distance of Chesapeake Bay attractions, like historic waterfront, brunch cruise, cobblestone streets.
Meal/Restaurant: I ordered the Jumbo lump 1/2 pound crab cake at Chick and Ruth’s Delly during my first visit.
Activities: Visit the United State Naval Academy. Guided public tours cost $10.50 per adult; $9.50 for seniors and $8.50 for children. March through December, the U.S. Naval Academy is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Discover Annapolis Trolley Tour is also a great way to see the area. Just be sure to order your tickets ahead of time!
When to visit: The best time to visit Annapolis is in the spring when the city is redolent with blossoms and the sailing season is just beginning.
Cost of flights: $123 on Spirit Nonstop up to $287 on United and American Nonstop From Chicago
Airport to fly into: BWI or DC
How to get around: Rent a car and park. then take a trolley tour around the city.
Any other tips? Take advantage of being on the water! From cruises to sunet walks, there’s plenty of ways to take in the seascape.
“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”
What’s in Your Suitcase?
JumpSmart
$159.99 on www.thejumpsmart.com
Vehicle jump starter that can be used every day or in an emergency. It’s a 4-Mode LED Flashlight, Power Bank, and Vehicle Jump Starter all in one and is powerful enough to power up to a 3.0L vehicle and a 2.0 diesel truck.
What’s on your phone?
Detour – Free – Android/iPhone
Detour is a GPS-guided audio walk that offers an immersive experience in 17 cities around the world. Each audio tour is narrated by a local who knows the city. Currently, they have tours for San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, Austin, Washington DC, Boston, Portland, Savannah, Charleston, Chicago, Rome, Berlin, Marrakech, London, Paris, and Barcelona.
What’s the tip?
Flight attendants share what you should wear for a first class upgrade (Travel + Leisure)
Many travelers prefer to wear sweatpants and sneakers, but cabin crew members say that putting a little more effort into your appearance can go a long way.
No jeans or trainers. Instead, try…
Women: A dress or black trousers and a blazer.
Men: Chinos or trousers and a button-down shirt
You don’t have to be on trend or wearing designer clothes, just make sure your appearances is presentable and well thought-out
You can still be comfortable, but don’t dress like you’re going to the gym; think more casual workday chic.
You may get bumped up to first class if you look the part.
Dirty sneakers, flip flops, leggings, old shirts, jeans, and other “comfy” but generally too casual clothes will probably keep you in your economy seat.
