There’s something truly enigmatic about the thought of the open road. The breeze whipping your hair into a frenzy, a carefully curated road tripping playlist turned up to the max and the distance that lies ahead - promising adventure and the excitement of the unknown. But why take a road trip? Why not fly or train your way to your next holidaying destination? By taking to the roads less driven and allowing yourself to get off the beaten path you’re opening yourself up to a world of possibilities, you can discover natural wonders (stopping at your leisure) and feel part of communities as you discover more of the world at ground level. Unspooling train tracks and views from 36,000 feet are all well and good but long soul-searching drives, weaving along scenic roads, aren’t to be overlooked. So, why not answer the siren call of the open road with whatever wheels you prefer - it could be car, camper or motorbike – and lose yourself to the untrodden delights of the roads less travelled.
1
Freedom of Movement
The ‘fly and flop’ holiday has its place but the classic road trip is hard to beat for that liberating sense of freedom. Each day you may know where you want to end up, but not how you’ll get there and what spontaneous adventures you might have en route. Your free from the constraints of pre-booked flights and connecting trains, with complete control over how you reach your destinations. When it comes to asking the age-old question of why take a road trip maybe we should be asking ourselves why not take a road trip?
2
Mix it Up
Road trips can be a cost-effective way to holiday. Not only can you pack your own picnics (and we’ll suggest the best spots to stop) but because you’re on the move, you can mix up the types of places where you rest your head. Switch between expensive (but worth it) properties and more low-key, cost-effective accommodation as you go –we're on hand to suggest the best of both. Not to mention the joy you’ll likely feel when wheeling your shopping trolley through a new supermarket, where shelves are lined with unknown and exciting treats to try before you hit the road again.
3
Call on Concierges
Fly-drive holidays are great way to get out of your comfort zone and recapture a sense of spontaneity. Our network of clued-up local concierges are the secret sauce in this road trip recipe, suggesting restaurants or activities in places you stop en route and making changes as you go – taking your trip to the next level.
4
The Places in Between
One of the best reasons to road trip is the freedom to stop off where, when and as often as you want, which means endless opportunity to discover a country’s hidden gems. Driving by a fun-looking local fiesta? Join in. Glimpse a gob-smacking view? Pull over and savour the scene. The favourite part of your trip might just be around the next wrong turn.
5
Long Sighted
Whether you’re a city-dweller or not, there’s something seriously satisfying about being on the open road looking out across a seemingly endless landscape. Hit the road in the destinations we recommend, and you can enjoy views for miles and more (see page 56 of our Road Trips brochure for Panoramic Pit Stops).
6
Drive Time
Don’t get us wrong – we love planes and trains, but automobiles are mighty fine too. Since you’ll be spending time on the road, our regional playlists should be the soundtrack to your epic driving adventures. We’ll also help you pick the right vehicle. Want to try something a little different? In certain destinations we can upgrade your wheels to a convertible, or even a supercar (again see our Road Trips brochure and flip to page 46 for all things Pimp My Ride).