All posts by Martin

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

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The Coney Island, Pottsville, PA

2290 W Market St, Pottsville, PA 17901 (coneyislandpottsville.com/)

Coney Island in Pottsville has a strong connection to the local community. It’s not just a burger joint; it’s a place where generations of families have gathered for delicious comfort food, creating a sense of shared nostalgia and tradition.

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Poppa Burger – Houston, Texas

1622 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009

See my video from my Poppa Burger visit – Dec 6, 2022

Poppa Burger, a cherished local classic burger stand, has been a staple in Houston since the early 1960s, serving up delectable burgers that have delighted generations of burger enthusiasts. What sets Poppa Burger apart is not only its rich history but also its commitment to round-the-clock service, welcoming patrons 24 hours a day.

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Bobo’s Drive In – Topeka, Kansas

2300 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604

Bobo’s boasts a well-kept secret: the Spanish burger. This culinary gem features a unique secret sauce that has become a sought-after favorite among patrons

See my video from my visit to Bobo’s Drive In – Sep 19, 2022

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Twisted Root Burger Co – Deep Elum, Dallas, Texas

2615 Commerce St., Dallas, TX 75226 (twistedrootburgerco.com/locations/deep-ellum)

As evidenced by the quote adorning their wall, ‘Our Burgers May Not Be World Famous, But They’re Pretty Darn Good,’ Twisted Root Burgers takes pride in serving up burgers that may not have global fame but boast a reputation for being incredibly satisfying.

See my video from my visit to Twisted Root Burger Co – Apr 16, 2023

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The Balboa Bar & Grill – San Diego, California

1863 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (www.thebalboabarandgrill.com/)

The Balboa sent a wave of concern through the hearts of burger enthusiasts when they first announced their temporary closure during the challenging times of the pandemic. Fortunately, their resilience and determination prevailed, and they emerged stronger than ever.

See my video from my visit to The Balboa – Jan 12, 2023

My “Nine Reasons why I embraced the van life” post rewritten by GPTChat in the genre of it’s choice, “Mystery and Intrigue”. (Followed by some Mystery and Intrigue travel ideas)

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

Mystery and Intrigue is a genre that thrives on suspense, hidden motives, and the art of keeping audiences engaged with intricate plots and unexpected twists.

GPTChat

Unearthed Nine Cryptic Van Life Reasons

1. The Evasion of Conformity:

The beckoning call of the open road held secrets known only to those who dared to heed it. I yielded to the enigmatic allure of this unconventional journey, breaking free from conformity to embrace van life’s mysteries.

2. The Elegance of Simplicity:

Life’s profound essence revealed itself in the art of shedding the superfluous. As I delved into the arcane charm of minimalism, I discovered a world where van life’s simplicity liberated my spirit.

3. Bridging the Abyss with Gaia:

Every dawn became a clandestine rendezvous with the ethereal beauty of nature, as if the Earth herself held arcane secrets waiting to be whispered to those who ventured into her embrace through van life.

4. The Enigmatic Dance of Labor and Wanderlust:

Remote work became a passport to an enigmatic realm where the dance of labor intertwined with the insatiable wanderlust of my nomadic heart. It was as though the very act of toiling from the road added an extra layer of intrigue to my daily van life, blurring the lines between work and adventure.

5. Meetings with the Arcane:

Within the mosaic of the van life community, I encountered kindred spirits whose cryptic tales resonated with the enigmatic threads of my own journey. Each encounter felt like a rendezvous with the arcane, as if the road had led me to a hidden society of travelers who held the keys to untold mysteries in van life.

6. The Unveiling of Secrets:

With each passing day, the enigma of van life unfolded before me, revealing secrets and surprises that left indelible marks on my soul. The enigmatic wonders I encountered were like chapters in an ancient tome, waiting to be deciphered and cherished in van life’s adventure.

7. A Sojourn Through the Shadows:

Van life’s affordability challenged the conventional norms of existence, leading me on an enigmatic sojourn through the shadows of traditional living. I navigated a world where the mundane had no dominion, and where the shadows themselves held secrets waiting to be uncovered in my van life journey.

8. Chasing the Twilight Veil:

My mobile abode perched in the presence of nature’s enigmatic twilight symphony, where day and night entwined in a dance of ethereal enchantment. Each evening, as I chased the elusive twilight veil, it felt as though I was pursuing a fleeting enigma, a momentary glimpse into the otherworldly in my van life.

9. A Life Beyond the Ordinary:

Van life became the canvas for an existence far removed from the mundane. In this enigmatic realm, the ordinary melted away, and the extraordinary became the backdrop of my life’s van life masterpiece. Every day held the potential for a new revelation, a new chapter in my enigmatic van life journey.

Some Mystery & Intrigue travel themed ideas

1. Savannah, Georgia:
   Known for its historic charm and Southern Gothic ambiance, Savannah is a city steeped in mystery. Explore its haunted cemeteries, take a spooky ghost tour, and visit the Mercer-Williams House, famous from the book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” I love stopping in Savannah!
2. New Orleans, Louisiana:
   With its voodoo history, above-ground cemeteries, and tales of vampires, New Orleans is a city shrouded in intrigue. Delve into the mysteries of the French Quarter and visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
3. Alcatraz Island, California:
   Once a notorious prison, Alcatraz is now a mysterious and historic site. Take a ferry to the island, tour the prison cells, and learn about the daring escape attempts of its inmates.
4. Newport, Rhode Island:
   Known for its opulent Gilded Age mansions and historic charm, Newport harbors its own share of mysteries. Explore the dark legends of Belcourt Castle, said to be haunted by restless spirits, and uncover tales of hidden tunnels and unexplained phenomena throughout the city.
5. Sedona, Arizona:
   Known for its breathtaking red rock formations, Sedona is also associated with mystical energy vortexes. Embark on a journey to discover these natural phenomena and explore the spiritual mysteries of the region.

My “Nine Reasons why I embraced the van life” post rewritten by GPTChat in the genre of it’s choice, “Fantasy Adventure”. (Followed by some Fantasy Adventure travel ideas)

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

It was crafted to evoke a sense of wonder, exploration, and the extraordinary, which are common themes in the fantasy adventure genre.

GPTChat

Van Life Chronicles: Dreamscapes Explored – Nine Uncharted Realms Revealed

1. Liberation to Roam: The open road beckoned, and I couldn’t resist the call of adventure.

The allure of van life lies in the boundless freedom it offers. No longer tethered to a fixed location or schedule, the open road becomes your canvas, and adventure your muse. Each day is a new chapter waiting to be written, with the promise of undiscovered landscapes and the thrill of the unexpected.

2. The Elegance of Minimalism: Life found purity in shedding superfluous possessions.

Embracing van life means simplifying your existence to its core. In a world often defined by excess, you discover the elegance of minimalism. Possessions once deemed essential fade into insignificance as you realize that true wealth lies in experiences and connections, not material belongings.

3. Closer to Gaia: Each dawn was a rendezvous with nature’s splendor.

Van life provides a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. Waking up to the songs of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the ever-changing hues of the sky becomes a daily ritual. You’re intimately connected to Mother Earth, forging a profound bond with the environment that nurtures your soul.

4. A Dance of Work and Wandering: Remote labor transformed into a passport for exploration.

The synergy between work and travel takes on a new dimension in van life. Remote work isn’t a compromise; it’s a key that unlocks the world. Your van becomes an office with ever-changing views, and the daily grind becomes an adventure. You’re no longer tied to a desk; you’re free to explore while you earn a living.

5. Encounters of the Extraordinary: The van life community, a tapestry of kindred spirits and their enchanting tales.

Van life introduces you to a diverse and welcoming community of fellow travelers. Each encounter is a story waiting to be shared, a lesson in camaraderie, and a reminder that the world is full of kindred spirits. The van life community is a tapestry woven with fascinating tales, each thread adding to the richness of your journey.

6. The Unknown Unfurled: Each dawn heralded novel surprises and indelible memories.

Van life is a continuous voyage into the unknown. Every morning brings the promise of something new, something unexpected. Whether it’s stumbling upon hidden gems, spontaneous adventures, or chance encounters, the tapestry of your memories is woven with the threads of the unexpected.

7. A Frugal Sojourn: Van life’s affordability challenged conventional living.

The economic benefits of van life are undeniable. Living frugally in a van challenges conventional notions of housing costs and expenses. You discover that a simpler life not only frees your finances but also liberates your spirit, allowing you to allocate resources to what truly matters.

8. Chasing Twilight: My home on wheels, perched in view of the world’s twilight symphony.

Van life grants you the unique privilege of choosing your nightly abode. You can park your home-on-wheels in the most enchanting settings, often with front-row seats to nature’s evening performance. Each twilight becomes a celebration, a moment to pause and appreciate the world’s symphony of colors.

9. A Life Beyond the Mundane: Van life, a canvas for an existence far from the pedestrian.

In van life, the mundane fades into oblivion. Your canvas is an ever-changing landscape of experiences, adventures, and personal growth. It’s a life where the extraordinary becomes the norm, and each day is a reminder that the world is vast, diverse, and endlessly fascinating.

Each of these facets of van life is a thread in the tapestry of a nomadic odyssey, a story of personal transformation, and a celebration of the extraordinary found in the ordinary.

Some Fantasy Adventure travel themed ideas

1. Antelope Canyon, Arizona:
   Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon known for its surreal, otherworldly beauty. The narrow passageways are illuminated by beams of sunlight that filter down from above, creating an enchanting and mystical atmosphere. Visitors can explore Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon, each offering unique visuals
2. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington:
   Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano, is the centerpiece of this national park. The park features breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers, meadows, waterfalls, and dense forests. Hiking trails wind through wildflower-filled meadows and lead to mesmerizing vistas of the mountain, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor adventurers seeking a fantasy-like natural experience.
3. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky:
   Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system, with an intricate labyrinth of chambers and tunnels that seem straight out of a fantasy adventure. Visitors can explore underground passages, admire unique limestone formations, and even take guided lantern tours to experience the cave’s eerie beauty..
4. The Wave, Arizona & Utah:
   Located on the border of Arizona and Utah, the Wave is a surreal sandstone formation in the Coyote Buttes North area. Its swirling, colorful layers of rock create an otherworldly landscape that appears almost dreamlike. Access to the Wave is limited and requires a permit, adding to its exclusive and fantasy-like allure.
5. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon:
   Crater Lake is a stunning caldera lake formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama. The lake is renowned for its striking blue color and crystal-clear waters, creating a dreamy, surreal setting. Visitors can drive along the rim, hike to overlooks, or even take a boat tour to fully immerse themselves in the fantasy-like beauty of this natural wonder.

These real-life travel destinations offer a sense of wonder and fantasy that can make any adventure feel like stepping into a magical realm.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

Travel Date May 2023:

As I bid farewell to the mesmerizing Coral Castle in Florida, my van life adventure continued to unfurl. This next leg of the journey led me through a series of delightful stops, each contributing its unique charm to the grand tapestry of my year-long road trip to the Arctic Circle.

Exploring Charleston, SC

Family Time in Charlotte, NC

Exploring Knoxville TN’s Artistic Charms:

Boz Scaggs in Lexington, KY

As I continued my northward journey toward the Arctic Circle, these stops provided not only diverse experiences but also the reminder that the road holds endless surprises. With each mile, I inched closer to my ultimate destination, eager for the next chapter of my van life adventure to unfold. Stay tuned for more tales from the road as I continue north.

My “Nine Reasons why I embraced the van life” rewritten by GPTChat in the genre of it’s choice, “Steampunk”. (Followed by some Steampunk travel ideas)

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

“Steampunk.” It was inspired by the Steampunk genre, known for its Victorian-era-inspired, retro-futuristic aesthetic with elements of steam power and machinery.

GPTChat

Nine Gears and Steam-Powered Reasons Behind My Affection for Van Life

1. Cog of Liberation: The open road beckoned, each twist and turn a mechanical marvel in motion. It was the irresistible siren call of adventure, fueled by the steam of dreams and propelled by the relentless gears of curiosity. In embracing van life, I found myself unburdened, no longer ensnared by the weight of the mundane world, but free to explore the boundless possibilities of the great unknown.
2. Gear of Simplicity: I embarked on a journey of mechanical minimalism, shedding the superfluous gears and gadgets that cluttered my existence. With each cog I left behind, I made room for what truly mattered — the elegant simplicity of life on the move, where the harmony of necessity met the beauty of purpose.
3. Chronometer to Nature: Van life allowed me to awaken amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, from the mechanized forests, where the branches creaked like well-oiled gears, to the metallic mountains that glistened in the sun’s radiant embrace. Nature, in all its mechanical glory, became my constant companion, and I reveled in its intricate design.
4. Steam-Powered Flexibility: Remote work became the fuel for my adventures, the steam that powered my journeys. With a well-oiled telegraph, I maintained both my connection to the world and my freedom to explore. The flexibility of van life meant that I could traverse the land, chasing horizons while attending to the duties of the day.
5. Clockwork Community: In the tapestry of van life, I discovered a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, each with their own clockwork contraptions and fascinating tales. We shared stories around campfires, tinkered with our machines, and forged connections as strong as the toughest alloy.
6. Sprocket of Surprises: Every dawn brought new surprises, each day a cog in the grand machinery of life. The unpredictability of the open road was my constant companion, and I eagerly embraced the unexpected with the curiosity of an inventor discovering uncharted mechanisms.
7. Economy of Gears: Van life revealed the surprising efficiency of existence, where the cost of living was as streamlined as a well-engineered machine. Freed from the heavy burdens of traditional living, I marveled at the ingenious mechanisms of thriftiness.
8. Sunset Chronograph: The setting sun became my celestial timepiece, and I could park my mobile abode wherever the day’s mechanical wanderings took me. With the precision of a master horologist, I would seek out vantage points where the sinking sun painted the sky in the richest hues of gold and copper.
9. Chronicle of the Extraordinary: Van life was my symphony of the unconventional, an ode to the extraordinary in a world of ticking clocks and turning gears. Each day was a testament to the boundless creativity of existence, a reminder that the pursuit of dreams could lead to a life less ordinary.

Some Steampunk travel themed ideas

1. Jerome, Arizona:
   • Jerome is a historic mining town known for its embrace of Steampunk art and culture. Visitors can explore the town’s Steampunk-inspired shops, art installations, and even stay in the Steampunk-themed suite at the Jerome Grand Hotel.
2. Reno, Nevada:
   • Reno hosts the annual “High Desert Steam” the Reno Steampunk Expo, a public event that brings together Steampunk enthusiasts for workshops, cosplay, and more. It’s a destination for those interested in Steampunk culture.
3. Eureka Springs, Arkansas:
   • Eureka Springs hosts the “Eureka Springs May Festival of the Arts,” which often includes Steampunk-themed art exhibitions and events. It’s a publicly accessible destination with a touch of Steampunk flair.
4. The Steampunk Treehouse at Dogfish Head Brewery, Delaware:
   • The Steampunk Treehouse is located at the Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton, Delaware. It’s a creative and whimsical installation set high up in the trees, featuring intricate Steampunk artwork, gears, and Victorian-style design elements. Visitors to the brewery can enjoy the Steampunk-inspired treehouse while experiencing the brewery’s offerings.
5. Clockwork Alchemy in Burlingame, California:
   • Clockwork Alchemy is an annual Steampunk convention held at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport in Burlingame, California. This event offers a wide range of Steampunk activities, including panels, workshops, a grand ball, and a bustling vendor area where attendees can find Steampunk-themed merchandise. It’s a publicly accessible and immersive Steampunk experience for enthusiasts in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

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1. Finding House Sitting Opportunities:

House sitting opportunities are usually listed on various platforms and websites dedicated to connecting homeowners with potential house sitters. Some popular websites include TrustedHousesitters, Housecarers, and MindMyHouse. Users can create profiles, browse listings, and apply for assignments that match their preferences.

Example: Jane, an avid van lifer, signs up on TrustedHousesitters and discovers a listing for a beautiful beachfront villa in California. The homeowner is looking for a responsible sitter to care for their home and pets while they’re away for a month.

Find house sitting opportunities at HouseCarers

2. Creating an Attractive Profile:

To stand out to homeowners, it’s essential to create a well-detailed and trustworthy profile. Include information about your experience, any relevant skills (e.g., pet care, gardening), and references from previous house sits if you have them. A well-written profile and a clear profile picture can significantly increase your chances of being selected.

Example: Jane’s profile includes her experience house sitting for friends and family, her love for animals, and a reference from her neighbor, who can vouch for her responsible nature.

3. Applying for House Sitting Assignments:

Once you find a house sitting opportunity that suits your preferences, you can send an application to the homeowner. In your application, express your interest, explain why you’re a suitable candidate, and provide any requested information, such as your availability.

Example: Jane sends a detailed application to the Californian villa owner, mentioning her past experiences caring for pets and gardens, as well as her flexible schedule.

4. Communication with Homeowners:

Effective communication is crucial. After applying, you may have interviews or video calls with homeowners to discuss expectations, responsibilities, and any specific arrangements. This is an excellent opportunity to build trust and clarify any doubts.

Example: Jane has a video call with the villa owner to discuss pet care routines, house maintenance, and the homeowner’s contact details in case of emergencies.

5. The House Sitting Experience:

Once you’re selected as a house sitter, you’ll move into the homeowner’s property for the agreed-upon duration. During this time, you’ll take care of the house, any pets, and perform other tasks as discussed with the homeowner. Some common responsibilities include feeding animals, watering plants, collecting mail, and keeping the home clean and secure.

Example: Jane enjoys her month-long stay at the Californian villa. She takes daily walks with the homeowner’s dog, waters the lush garden, and keeps the house tidy. She even sends regular updates to the homeowner, including photos of their happy pets.

6. Enjoying the Benefits:

In exchange for your house sitting services, you get to stay in various locations for free. House sitting allows you to experience different lifestyles, immerse yourself in local communities, and save money on accommodation while traveling.

Example: Jane’s house sit in California allows her to explore the beautiful beaches, savor local cuisine, and connect with other travelers in the area—all without the usual accommodation expenses.

House sitting offers a fantastic opportunity to travel, experience new cultures, and help homeowners at the same time. By following these steps and creating a reliable profile, you can embark on your own house sitting adventures and explore the world while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Happy house sitting!

Steps to Start House Sitting

• Finding House Sitting Opportunities
• Creating an Attractive Profile
• Apply for House Sitting Opportunities
• Communication with Homeowners
• The House Sitting Experience
• Enjoy the Benefits!

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

Chasing Dreams: From College to the Open Road of Van Life

Have you ever felt the pull of a dream that lingered in the depths of your mind, quietly urging you to chase it down? I certainly have. The spark for this dream was ignited years ago, just after I graduated from college. It was a decision to explore the country before settling into the nine-to-five routine and donning a suit. Fresh out of college, I embarked on an epic 12,000-mile road trip over a mere 6 weeks, that left an indelible mark on my soul. My dream became to traverse the vast landscapes of the United States, explore the country’s hidden treasures and discover what was to be discovered. I knew I wanted more of these adventures in my life so the plan was simple: when I retire, get a van and get on the road.

From Campus to Van: A Pandemic-Driven Road Trip Odyssey

But as fate would have it, life had different plans. When the world was forced to pause due to the pandemic, my home became my office, and my home started feeling like a prison. That’s when I made a decision that would change my life: I sold my car, bought a mini-van as a trial run, and took remote work to a whole new level.

The pandemic had revealed the fragility of life’s plans and the importance of living in the present. Why wait for a distant retirement when I could embrace the nomadic lifestyle now? The idea of delaying my dreams no longer held the same appeal.

My cousin in Montana had been nagging me for years to travel out there for a long overdue visit. After practicing with some more local New England-based overnights hit the road to Montana. I turned it into a three-month-long adventure, covering thousands of miles, countless memories, and a newfound love for the nomadic lifestyle.

Pandemic Pivot: Embracing Van Life and the Open Road

I’ve always felt a deep longing for something more, an innate desire to break free from the ordinary and fully embrace the extraordinary. Van life, I discovered, offered me the perfect opportunity to do just that.

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Nine Reasons why I embraced the van life:

1. Freedom to Wander: The open road beckoned, and I couldn’t resist the call of adventure.
2. Embracing Minimalism: Simplifying my life and shedding excess possessions was liberating.
3. Closer to Nature: Van life allowed me to wake up to breathtaking natural landscapes.
4. Flexibility to Work and Travel: Remote work became my ticket to explore while earning a living.
5. Meeting Incredible People: The van life community is filled with like-minded individuals and fascinating stories.
6. Unpredictable Journeys: Each day brought new surprises and unforgettable experiences.
7. Cost-Effective Living: Van life is surprisingly affordable compared to traditional living.
8. Chasing Sunsets: I could park my home wherever I wanted, including with a view.
9. A Life Less Ordinary: The van life lifestyle is anything but mundane, and I craved the extraordinary.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

For many van lifers, the idea of house sitting can be an attractive proposition. It offers a chance to take a break from life on the road, experience a more “normal” routine, and enjoy comfortable accommodations. However, before you dive headfirst into the world of house sitting, it’s crucial to understand both its pros and cons. In a previous post, we explored the many advantages of house sitting. Now, let’s take a closer look at the potential downsides that van lifers should consider.

The Commitment Conundrum for Van Lifers

One of the most significant cons of house sitting is the level of commitment it requires. Van lifers are accustomed to a life of freedom and spontaneity, where you can change your location at the drop of a hat. House sitting often demands that you stay in one place for an extended period, which can be a significant adjustment.

Learn more about becoming a house sitter

Responsibilities Galore

House sitting comes with a bundle of responsibilities. From taking care of pets to maintaining the property, you’ll be expected to handle various tasks. If you’re used to the simplicity of van life, these added responsibilities can feel overwhelming.

Unpredictable Plans

Van lifers thrive on unpredictability, but house sitting can disrupt that flow. Homeowners might return home earlier than expected, or they could cancel their trip altogether. This uncertainty can wreak havoc on your travel plans.

Competitive House Hunting

In sought-after locations, house sitting opportunities can be fiercely competitive. It might take time and effort to secure a house sit that aligns with your preferences and schedule.

Limiting Accommodation Choices

Relying solely on house sitting for accommodation can limit your choices. In remote or less popular destinations, finding suitable house-sitting gigs can be challenging.

Learn more about becoming a house sitter

Uncertain Availability

House sitting opportunities aren’t always readily available. If you have specific dates or destinations in mind, you may need to be patient and persistent in your search.

Background Checks and References

Some homeowners may require background checks or references, which can be time-consuming and might not guarantee you’ll secure the opportunity.

Time Away from the Van

Extended house sitting gigs could mean extended time away from your van or permanent residence, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Learn more about becoming a house sitter

What I see as the Cons of House Sitting

• The Commitment Conundrum for Van Lifers
• Responsibilities Galore
• Unpredictable Plans
• Competitive House Hunting
• Limiting Accommodation Choices
• Uncertain Availability
• Background Checks and References
• Time Away from the Van

While house sitting can provide van lifers with a change of pace and comfortable accommodations, it’s essential to be aware of its cons, especially in the context of van life. The commitment, responsibilities, and unpredictability may not align with everyone’s van life travel style. However, by weighing these downsides against the benefits and planning accordingly, you can make an informed decision about whether house sitting is the right choice for your van life adventures. Whether you choose the open road of van life or a cozy house sit, the world is full of van life adventures waiting to be explored.”

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

I visited Coral Castle on my road trip north, a remarkable place filled with mysterious wonders and the aura of a bygone era. Nestled in Homestead, Florida, Coral Castle is a true testament to human ingenuity and the enigmatic mind of its creator, Ed Leedskalnin. This extraordinary attraction features massive stones meticulously carved and arranged to form a fascinating complex of megalithic structures.

Ed Leedskalnin’s Enigmatic Creations

At the heart of Coral Castle’s allure lies its intriguing backstory. It’s said that its creator, Edward Leedskalnin, quarried and carved these colossal stones entirely by himself, using an unknown and seemingly mystical method that still baffles visitors to this day. Ed was a reclusive figure who dedicated over 28 years to crafting this astonishing masterpiece. He attributed his knowledge to the “secrets of the universe,” which he claimed to have uncovered during his life.

Exploring the Mysteries of Coral Castle

While the exact methods Ed employed to move and carve these enormous stones remain a secret, his work continues to inspire fascination and curiosity. Some speculate that he possessed anti-gravity knowledge or an uncanny understanding of magnetism and the Earth’s energy. Ed’s cryptic statements only added to the enigma, hinting at profound discoveries and insights into the “secrets of the universe.”

Coral Castle invites visitors to step into this world of marvels, where they can admire Ed’s craftsmanship, ponder the purpose of his celestial observatory, and contemplate the mysteries that surround this extraordinary place. It’s a must-visit destination for those on a road trip through Florida, offering a unique glimpse into the life and mind of Ed Leedskalnin.

(Make it funny version)

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

I thought it might be funny, so I asked GPT-3.5 to add a delightful twist to my previous burger blog post, creating a funny version that adds humor and playfulness to the mix. Actually, I asked it to, "Rewrite the following blogpost to be as funny as possible. use jokes. puns. dad humour. or anything else that will make the post funny."  This is what we get....

Now, before you start thinking this is a “top 5” list, let me set the record straight. This is more like a journey through the wild, delicious west of burgerdom. The order I’m listing these burger joints is just the way they popped into my hungry head. It’s all about sharing some burger love with you, my fellow enthusiasts. You see, there are so many more burger places out there waiting to be explored. This list is just a tasty tease, an appetizer to whet your burger appetite. So, grab your napkin, because we’re about to embark on a finger-lickin’ journey through some of America’s best burger joints!

Cozy Inn – Salina, Kansas

108 N 7th St, Salina, KS 67401 (www.cozyburger.com)

Champ Burger – Houston, Texas

304 Sampson St, Houston, TX 77003 (www.champburger.net)

Booches – Columbia, Missouri

110 S 9th St, Columbia, MO 65201 (booches1884.com)

Armadillo Burger – San Antonio, Texas

1423 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 (www.armadilloburger.com)

Diablo Burger – Flagstaff, Arizona

120 N Leroux St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (www.diabloburger.com)