Tag Van Life

(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.)

1. Freedom to Explore:
   At the heart of van life is the freedom to explore the world on your terms. The point is to break free from the constraints of a stationary existence, to drive away from the known and step into the unknown. Van lifers seek to wander through nature’s wonders, discover hidden gems, and embrace the diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences.
2. Simplicity and Minimalism:
   Van life often goes hand in hand with minimalism. It’s about decluttering your life, simplifying your possessions, and focusing on what truly matters. The point is to let go of materialism and find contentment in the essentials. By downsizing, van lifers strive to lead a more intentional life and reduce their ecological footprint.
3. Connection with Nature:
   For many, the point of van life is a deep connection with nature. The freedom to wake up to the sound of birds, watch the sunrise over the mountains, and fall asleep under the stars. Van lifers aim to nurture their bond with the natural world and develop a profound appreciation for the environment.
4. Self-Discovery and Growth:
   Van life isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a voyage of self-discovery and personal growth. The road poses challenges and tests your resilience. It’s about finding out who you are and what you’re capable of. The point is to evolve as a person and become more self-reliant.
5. Escape from Routine:
   The point of van life often includes an escape from the routines and predictabilities of traditional living. It’s a chance to leave behind the 9-to-5 grind, societal expectations, and the comfort zone. Van lifers seek adventure, spontaneity, and a life less ordinary.
6. Community and Connection:
   Contrary to the image of solo wanderers, van life often fosters a sense of community. The road is full of like-minded individuals, and the point is to connect, share stories, and build lasting friendships. The van life community offers support, advice, and a network of fellow travelers.
7. Stories and Experiences:
   Perhaps the most crucial point of van life is to collect stories and experiences. The road is filled with adventures waiting to be written, photographs to be taken, and moments to be cherished. The journey itself becomes the story, and each day brings a new chapter.
8. Financial Freedom:
   Many choose van life for financial freedom. Without the burden of rent or a mortgage, van lifers can redirect their resources toward experiences and passions. It’s about living life on your terms and not being tied down by financial obligations.
9. Reconnecting with Loved Ones:
   Van life provides the flexibility to visit family and friends across the country. It allows you to enjoy quality time with loved ones you may not get to see while staying in one plae. It gives the opportunity to create even more cherished memories during your adventures.

What is the Point of Van Life?

So, what is the point of van life? It’s a unique combination of freedom, simplicity, nature, self-discovery, community, experiences, and financial flexibility. It’s a quest for a life that’s more fulfilling, intentional, and authentic. Van life offers a path to live life on your terms, explore the world with an open heart, and find meaning in the journey itself. Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or just curious about the lifestyle, the point remains the same: to embrace the road less traveled and discover the beauty in the pursuit of your own happiness.

(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 June 2023: As my van life adventure continued its northern trajectory, I found myself stopping at an old favorite—Superdawg Drive In. This iconic Chicago landmark had been on my radar ever since I sampled their delectable hot dogs at their location in Chicago during a previous trip. However, this visit held an unexpected surprise. Upon arrival at the Superdawg Drive In in Wheeling, IL, I discovered that it was hosting a lively car show, turning this pit stop into a two-fold delight.

Superdawg in Chicago, IL

Superdawg in Wheeling, IL

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of Superdawg. More than just a place to sate your cravings, it’s a slice of Chicago’s rich history. Since 1948, Superdawg has been serving mouthwatering hot dogs and other tasty treats. Its unmistakable rooftop characters, Maurie and Flaurie, have become true Windy City icons. The classic Superdawg is a true delight, featuring a perfectly grilled hot dog adorned with all the essential toppings—tangy pickles, zesty mustard, and crisp green relish. Yet, the experience doesn’t stop there. Superdawg is known for its Superfries, a crispy and irresistible sidekick that elevates the meal. The entire feast is served in a charming little box with witty sayings, like “Superdawg lounges inside.”

As I savored the flavors of my Superdawg, the backdrop of the car show added a unique layer to the experience. Nostalgic automobiles of various eras were on display, making it even more enjoyable to delve into my hot dog. It’s moments like these that make a van life road trip unforgettable.

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Superdawg Drive In in Wheeling, IL, was the ideal pit stop on my van life journey—a fusion of cherished memories, great food, and classic cars. If you’re ever in the Chicago area during your own van life adventure, be sure to swing by Superdawg and savor a slice of local history alongside some mouthwatering hot dogs. It’s a stop that’s bound to leave you with a smile on your face, a satisfied palate, and a story to tell along the road.

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Check out my full post of my stop at Superdawg….

@travels_with_martin

Superdawg, Chicago Style Hot Dogs, Wheeling, IL #superdawg #superdawgs #superdawgg #chicagostyle #chicagostylehotdog #chicagostylefood #chicagohotdog #chicagohotdogsusa #chicagohotdogs #wheelingil #wheelingillinois #travelswithmartin #vanlife #fyp #foryoupage

♬ Hot Dog (Remaster) – Led Zeppelin

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Superdawg Chicago 6363 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60646

Superdawg Wheeling 333 S Milwaukee Ave Wheeling, IL 60090

(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 June 2023: Welcome back to my van life adventure! As I continue my journey towards the Arctic Circle, the open road beckons with promises of new experiences and discoveries. This leg of the trip took me through the states of Ohio and Indiana in the Midwest, and it was a captivating ride.

Cincinnati, OH: A Smashburger Reunion:

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Columbus and Bexley, OH: Exploring Culinary Delights and Music in the Midwest

The charming town of Bexley, Ohio, along with nearby Columbus, invited me to stay a while. During my visit, I had the privilege of staying with my sister in Bexley. One evening, we explored the vibrant scene in Columbus. We savored live music and craft beers under the open sky at Land-Grant Brewery, where we also had the chance to savor the flavorful BBQ from Sweets & Meats BBQ food truck—a delightful treat to satisfy my taste buds. On another night, we ventured to a new Cajun-inspired restaurant in town called Noahla Seafood, where we enjoyed a delightful culinary experience. And, of course, I couldn’t leave Bexley without indulging in Graeter’s ice cream, a sweet treat that perfectly complemented my van life adventure. It was the ideal way to wrap up my stay in Bexley, Ohio, and prepare for the next leg of my journey.

Sweets & Meats BBQ Columbus, OH

Land Grant Brewery Columbus, OH

Crawfish from Noahla Bexley, OH

Carmel, IN: Lunch and Sculptures:

Heading North Towards the Great Lakes:

With each mile, I inched closer to the Great Lakes, a majestic destination on my road to the Arctic Circle. The anticipation of what lay ahead filled the air, and I couldn’t help but feel the excitement of the journey.

My van life adventure continues to unfold, taking me through the Midwest of America, one memorable stop at a time. From the flavors of Cincinnati to the quaint charm of Bexley and the artistic allure of Carmel, each destination adds a unique chapter to my road trip story. As I head north towards the Great Lakes, I’m reminded that the beauty of van life lies in the journey itself. Stay tuned for more adventures on the road to the Arctic Circle!

(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’ve taken my list of ‘Key Characteristics of Van Life’ from my “What is Van Life” post and had a bit of fun. I’m not much of a poet, so with the help of ChatGPT, we’ve turned thie list into a poem. It’s all part of embracing van life – finding the time for creativity in our on-the-road adventures!

Poetic characteristics of van life include:

1. Living in a Van:
   In the realm of rolling homes we dwell,
   Where the road sings stories, none can foretell.
   A van, our vessel, transformed with grace,
   A mobile haven, our nomadic embrace.
2. Traveling Full-Time:
   Roaming full-time, from town to town,
   Unveiling the world’s wonders, from sun up to sundown.
   Minimalism guides our chosen art,
   In the snug confines of our four-wheel heart.
3. Minimalism:
   In this mobile realm, we wisely discern,
   Selecting the essentials, letting materialism adjourn.
   A life of purpose, experiences in place,
   We focus on the essentials with minimalism’s embrace.
4. Self-Sufficiency:
   Resourceful and self-reliant, we ingeniously arrange,
   Our van-life rhythm, as the world we exchange.
   From cooking to camping, we find our own way,
   In this mobile sanctuary, we conquer the day.
5. Connection to Nature:
   Nature’s beauty, our ever-present muse,
   Remote locations, where the wild infuse.
   We hike and we camp, the great outdoors we adore,
   Van life connects us to Earth’s mystical core.
6. Alternative Lifestyle:
   In an alternative realm, we choose to reside,
   Breaking free from conventions, we let tradition slide.
   Nine-to-five routines, we respectfully dismiss,
   In this rolling realm of van life, freedom’s our bliss.
7. Community:
   Online communities, our digital connect,
   Van lifers unite, with shared tales we reflect.
   Through blogs, through YouTube, social media’s prime,
   We cherish the camaraderie, transcending space and time.

In the realm of van life, a poet’s dream unfolds, an odyssey of freedom, simplicity’s song of old. Each traveler scribes a unique tale on the open road, where adventure’s fleeting spark or a lifelong saga’s code.

Some seek thrills, a dance with destiny, they chase, while others crave the liberty to chart their unique space. Simplicity’s embrace, a gentle, soothing flow, as wanderers downsize, their possessions let go.

Van life, where nomads unite, share stories untold, crafting verses in the campfire’s warm, flickering gold. So, what is van life? A tapestry of desires spun, where nomadic hearts journey, beneath the endless sun.

(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.)

The Evolution of My Van Life Journey

While I may not be embarking on van life as a completely new journey, the decision to embrace it full-time indeed marks a distinct chapter in my ongoing adventure and my life. Van life, in its part-time form, began with the purchase of my first van during the pandemic. The world threw us an unexpected curveball, and like many, I found myself adapting to remote work while comfortably residing in my apartment. It was during this time that the seeds of van life were truly sown.

Testing the Waters: Part-Time Van Life Adventures

Initially, my van life adventures consisted of shorter trips, typically lasting three or four months on the road, interspersed with brief returns to my apartment. These interludes served as a way for me to test the waters, to see if the nomadic lifestyle truly resonated with me. During these journeys, I explored fascinating places like the Field of Dreams in Iowa, marveled at the vastness of the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, and strolled along the iconic Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge. However, it wasn’t until I embarked on my epic Arctic Circle roadtrip that everything fell into place.

A Profound Decision: Transitioning to Full-Time Van Life

As I journeyed through the breathtaking landscapes, something profound happened. The open road stretched endlessly before me, offering solitude, reflection, and countless moments of awe. I found clarity amid the quietude, and as the miles passed beneath my wheels, a decision took shape in my mind. When I return from the Arctic Circle, I’ve decided that my apartment, with its four walls and familiar comforts, will no longer be a part of my life. Instead, I’ll embrace the essence of van life fully and wholeheartedly. This means letting go of some of what I’ve accumulated, everything that has tied me to a stationary existence. While I’ll keep cherished remnants of my past life with me in the van, there won’t be a storage unit, and I’ll simplify my possessions. It’s time to fully commit to the boundless freedom that van life offers, knowing that I’ll carry the memories and treasures of my past while embracing the possibilities that lie ahead.

Preparing for Full-Time Van Life:

Over the four months following my return from the Arctic Circle, I’ll be on a mission to sell everything, each item a stepping stone toward a lighter, more intentional way of living. Join me on this journey as I share the process of shedding possessions, the emotional challenges, and the liberating feeling of embracing van life with open arms. As I prepare for this significant shift, I’ll also be tackling practical questions, such as how to manage mail, ensuring a smooth transition to a life on the road. This is where it truly begins, a deliberate choice to live life on my terms and follow the road wherever it may lead.

Stay tuned for updates, insights, and the unfolding of this transformative adventure. The van life journey is about to take a significant turn, and I’m excited to share it with you. And if you’re interested in buying anything, well, I’ve got quite the inventory to offer!

(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 June 2023: After the mesmerizing Boz Scaggs show in Lexington, Kentucky, my van and I hit the road the following morning, leaving behind fond memories and heading north towards the charming town of Georgetown. Nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Georgetown offered not only a quaint atmosphere but also a delightful culinary surprise that I couldn’t wait to savor.

Discovering Georgetown, KY

Georgetown, Kentucky, welcomed me with its historic charm and picturesque streets. Known for its rich history and vibrant community, this town exudes a sense of Southern hospitality that immediately made me feel at home. As I wandered through its streets, I couldn’t help but appreciate the town’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

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Savoring the Kentucky Hot Brown: What is Kentucky Hot Brown?

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My stop in Georgetown, Kentucky, turned out to be a delightful surprise, filled with the warmth of the town’s hospitality and the culinary excellence of Fava’s Restaurant. The Kentucky Hot Brown was the highlight of this leg of my journey, reminding me that van life is full of unexpected culinary adventures waiting to be savored. As I continue my road trip adventures, I’m eager to uncover more hidden gems and delicious surprises that await me on my van trip north.

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.

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.)

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.