The Travel Bug

It seems crazy to think that I have never ridden a train in the US (or not that I can remember) and it is so nice. Even though it is packed, people are really nice and it is quite peaceful. I do wish I had a travel buddy to hang out with, but I guess that is what my computer is for. Even though the wireless continues to go in and out, I am finding it comforting to get back to my writing.

I am writing this post on an Amtrak heading to Philadelphia. I am going for two reasons: the first, because I have a site visit for work, and the most important because I want to see my cousin Natalie for the holidays. I miss going to my Aunt Carol's house on Christmas eve and celebrating with my cousins. So, I bugged and bugged her until she said yes. She and her husband Joel just bought a house - WHOO HOO - and I am going to break in the guest room for them!

With this trip, I have officially caught the travel bug. I will be in Philly for a few days, then next week I head to Colorado for the Christmas holiday and then on the 7th of January I am hopping on a plane to go to Turks and Caicos! Whoa nelly! I have my luggage secured, camera charged and the charger cords for all my electrical devices...life has become complicated. So, here is a little travel food for thought.

• Check the expiration date on your passport. If its expired DEFINITELY choose the expedited service. Mine came in one week door to door. (Oh, you don't need a passport on the train, Philly isn't  its own country, its for Turks and Caicos.)
• Don't wait to pack the morning you leave because you will take a ton of random things, and forget all that is important, like underwear.
• Don't drink too much the night before you have a train ride...hangovers and train tracks DO NOT mix. Trust me on that. Also, everyone will look at you if you keep going in and out of the bathroom.
• Make sure to bring plenty of food and drink (especially if you are traveling alone.) Even through there is a dining car, you will lose your seat if you venture to it. I  have never been more parched in my life. 
• Check your computers compatibility to WiFi networks. - it sucks to be disconnected
• Bring a variety of things to keep you entertained, ie Kindle, iPad, magazines, games...but do not miss looking out the window - it is really important to take it all in and you never know what you are going to see. 
• Don't miss your stop because you will get kicked off the train. Seriously.

Whatever traveling you may be doing over the holidays, have fun and be safe. I know that I will be doing the same!