Author and researcher Nicole Strickland, whose knowledge of the Queen Mary as a legendary luxury ocean liner is nonpareil, shares the rich and poignant history of a ship that occupies a remarkable niche in world history. Docked in Long Beach, California since 1967, the “QM” has bid an elegant (many say haunted) welcome to countless visitors from around the world.

The Reviving America’s Scenic Byways Act of 2019 directs the Secretary of Transportation to start the application process for new byways within 90 days and designate a new round of National Scenic Byways within one year. The implications for road travelers across the nation are far-reaching, heralding a resurgence of support for beautiful places off the beaten path. Mark Falzone, President of Scenic America since April 2017, describes the profound significance of this legislation.

New England is rich in historical significance and cultural influences harkening back to colonial and Revolutionary War days. From Boston, Massachusetts to Acadia National Park in Maine, history blends with some of North America’s most spectacular scenery to entice road trippers from sea to shining sea as Trip Talk host Gary Mantz recently discovered for himself.

David L. Scott and Kay W. Scott have spent over thirty summers touring the United States and Canada, including six summers exclusively devoted to the national park lodges. They are experts in planning affordable enjoyment of the U.S. National Park system and the wide variety of lodging options it offers.

David L. Scott and Kay W. Scott have spent over thirty summers touring the United States and Canada, including six summers exclusively devoted to the national park lodges. They are experts in planning affordable enjoyment of the U.S. National Park system and the wide variety of lodging options it offers.

David L. Scott and Kay W. Scott have spent over thirty summers touring the United States and Canada, including six summers exclusively devoted to the national park lodges. They are experts in planning affordable enjoyment of the U.S. National Park system and the wide variety of lodging options it offers.

David L. Scott and Kay W. Scott have spent over thirty summers touring the United States and Canada, including six summers exclusively devoted to the national park lodges. They are experts in planning affordable enjoyment of the U.S. National Park system and the wide variety of lodging options it offers.

David L. Scott and Kay W. Scott have spent over thirty summers touring the United States and Canada, including six summers exclusively devoted to the national park lodges. They are experts in planning affordable enjoyment of the U.S. National Park system and the wide variety of lodging options it offers.

Author Kim Romaner and her retired husband decided over two years ago to sell their home and most of their possessions to embark on a cross-country RV adventure that continues to this day with stays at famous places like National Parks as well as small towns and roadside attractions that can accommodate their big rig. Kim is an inspiration to those who hope to pursue their own dreams someday by hitting the open road.

Manresa Castle in Port Townsend, WA is both a haunted hotspot and a landmark hotel boasting Victorian-era elegance. Several other popular lodgings in the Evergreen State have a ghostly reputation as well, including The Tokeland Hotel in the town of Tokeland. It is the oldest hotel in Washington. Photo credit: manresacastle.com