Travel

Nobody believes me when I tell them it was actually Cathy’s idea to sail around the world—but it’s true. Having been a banker, Cathy presents such an organized and proper exterior, who would think she would be willing to make the sacrifices in creature comforts and security to take on the adventure of a lifetime. When we first met, she was contemplating a world tour by air but my international business travel and subsequent tightening of airline security made that sound less attractive to me. Thirty-five years later, I guess she figured out how to finally get me to go on her circumnavigation.

"Honey, let’s go on vacation! We need a rest! A break! Let’s get out of here!"

If those phrases sound familiar, you know the draw of getting away from it all. Whether your dream is to head to the beach, the mountains, or a far-off land, traveling offers opportunities for rest, relaxation, and discovery. Yet, even as we seek the rejuvenation and delights of travel, most of us have experienced journeys gone awry. A mountain of mishaps, from sunburns to disagreements over plans and directions, can leave couples drained and regretful instead of revived and rejuvenated.

The sun is out, the windows are down and you and your honey are ready for an adventure. Fill up the tank and embark on a road trip that visits some of the most picturesque and unique locations of America. Create an itinerary that is tailored to the interests of you and your spouse—this is great for honeymoons too. Additionally, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, and plan so that your transportation and accommodation logistics will fall into place. Here are some useful tips and destination ideas for your romantic adventure.

You're the type of couple who finds cruise ships, theme parks and tour groups lack the vibrant culture you seek when traveling. You want to spend your precious vacation time away from the office in a place that is enriching, captivating and rewarding to your souls. Why sit in a beach chair when you can get out there and really experience life, stress-free, in a location where real people are actually living and working to make their community a draw to the rest of the world? Here are some great places to experience a more culturally enriching vacation:

Even for seasoned road warriors, suitcase packing tends to be a dreaded chore. Is there really a foolproof method for fitting suits, business casual, and casual attire (not to mention shoes, toiletries, and other accessories) into a carry-on bag… without forgetting anything essential?

In most cases, the answer is "yes."

Many business travelers overpack in order to prepare for every eventuality. After all, no one wants to wear yesterday’s wrinkly button-down to a client dinner that cropped up unexpectedly.

There’s a place in the heart of California’s Central Coast where people still live the California dream. Pismo Beach is a classic beach town set on seven miles of pure white sand. It has a relaxed, friendly vibe and all the makings for a couples getaway—including the four-legged variety if you'd like to bring your pet. Pismo Beach is located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along scenic Pacific Coast Highway 1 and Highway 101, so it’s easy to reach and settle into.

Day 1: Check In and Check Out

Twin Pine Casino & Hotel, owned and operated by the Middletown Rancheria of Pomo indians of California, is ideally situated along a particularly scenic portion of Highway 29 in Middletown, California. It offers wine tourists the fun and luxury of a premier casino, hotel, and restaurant—nearly halfway between the wineries of Calistoga in northern Napa Valley and the wineries of Lake County—setting the stage for plenty of wonderful wine touring opportunities. Said to be the only wine-themed casino destination in the United States, Twin Pine Casino & Hotel attracts discerning guests who like to blend their love of casino life and wine together.