How I did it: For years I’ve said that I’d love to see more of the U.S., and that someday I’d like to drive across it. I hadn’t realized that I’d end up driving it alone!

In the past, the longest drive I’d ever taken alone was from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (I believe it took about 2 1/2 hours)? I never thought I’d be able, or want to drive a long distance by myself, such as across the country.

Recently I went to N.C. to move in with my long time, long distance love… Unfortunately it hadn’t work out, as the person turned out to totally different from what they’d presented themselves to be… Yikes! It was like living with the anti-Christ. Perhaps I’m being a touch melodramatic, but it Was a horrible experience.

We’d driven from Pasadena, Ca. to N.C. together on the I-40, along with Nicolette. Nicolette and I ended up driving back to Pasadena Alone.

I have to say I was scared to do it alone, but for the most part it was a fabulous experience! It felt rather nomadic, with my car filled to the hilt with my possessions. I even sold some new designer handbags and jewelry when I needed more funds, as my trip took longer than planned… I felt so self sufficient and proud of myself.

The most stunning place was New Mexico! The terrain was as beautiful as I’d imagined… and the sunsets… *sigh

Nicolette was amazing, as she wasn’t even in a closed carrier… She hates them, so I made a nice little, shaded kitty bed for her in a box, and seated her next to me. I thought she’d maybe be a bit freaked out during the trip, because she can be a timid little thing.

She was so great! There were times when I’d open the car door to do whatever, and she’d stay in her bed! She even adjusted nicely to staying in various hotels. I’d always dreamed of having a cat that I could travel with, like the kitty in “The Cat Who Went To Paris” (a terrific book by the way).

My dream came true! *Happy dance

Lessons & tips: Take your time and have some fun along the way!  ;-) 

Online, I searched out great deals on hotels/motels.  I rarely made reservations ahead of time... but did call a week ahead to the places that were possibilities, to make sure about their rates and that they accepted kitties.   This was a great thing to do because I was starting to form a relationship with the person in charge of reservations.  It proved to be invaluable when I ended up making reservations, sometimes at the last minute.  ;-)

Also, I'd ask if they thought they'd be booked up during the day(s) I thought I might be arriving...

La Quinta was where I usually stayed...  Great rates, clean, roomy and only $65 - $110 (usually with with a big breakfast)

I told them I was an Auto Club Member for their discount rate.  Also, I always asked for a non-smoking room on the 1st floor (close to where my car was parked) or by an elevator so that I wouldn't have to lug my luggage too far.

Resources: Yelp.com was a Great resource to find out about great local restaurants and such.  I highly recommend it!  I also Googled some "traveling on the road" blog sites.   The people were very helpful with ideas for my route, plus ideas for hotels/motels and restaurants.

Dec 16, 2008, 10:50AM PST | 0 comments | 3 cheers