It’s Summer Playlist Time!

The other day, someone recently brought it to my attention that I hadn’t done a new summer playlist…how silly of me! I truly believe that having the perfect background music for your journey is essential. Your musical selections can enhance your travel experience ten fold! Here are some options to get your playlist started for your last minute summer road trips with Preferred Motorcoach Transportation! 🙂

 

Silento – ‘Watch Me’

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I’m sure you’ve either heard this song or at least have seen references to the dance moves. If not, it’s time to move from under the rock where you’ve been living. This is one of THE songs of the summer! Everyone has been dancing along including America’s new national treasure, Riley Curry. Full disclosure: I have a love/hate relationship with this song. It gets on my nerves but I love it at the same time. It’s SUPER catchy. You’ll be dancing right along after just a few minutes.

 

Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar – ‘Bad Blood’

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This features Kendrick Lamar. That’s enough for me!

 

Whitney Houston – ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’

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So you know that moment when you’ve been on the road for HOURS and you need a little pick me up because you can’t even anymore? Turn on this song. Immediately. Classic 80’s Whitney always wakes me up! It’s fun, upbeat, and just as that carefree summer feel to it. When you get restless on the road, crank up this jam and thank me later.

 

The Weeknd – ‘Can’t Feel My Face’

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This song has an MJ feel to me. It makes me want to get up, put on some penny loafers and, well, I can’t really dance at all but I jig a little. Anyway, The Weeknd (I still can’t figure out why he decided to ditch the ‘e’, but whatevs) makes EXCELLENT music. And this is one of his one of my new favorites of his!

 

Janelle Monae – ‘Yoga’

Janelle rocks! Everything she touches turns to pure gold. This is a fact. So, her latest single is no exception. This song is so much fun! I’m not good at yoga, like, at all, but that doesn’t matter. I jam this! And it’s perfect for the open road!

 

Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars – ‘Uptown Funk’

I LOVE this song. It’s catchy, upbeat, and so much fun! It has summer vibes, a summer beat, and it just screams summer. When it comes on, you will immediately turn up, because those are the rules. Mark Ronson, who produced the song, has a real gift and it shines through on this song!

 

Beyonce – ‘7/11’

Because Beyonce. Any questions?

 

Will Smith – ‘Summertime’

I’ve put this on a summer playlist piece before. I know. Let it go. The song is called ‘Summertime’, for crying out loud! It will go on EVERY summer playlist I ever make. #SorryNotSorry

 

 

So, what songs are in your travel rotation these days? Let me know in the comments!

Tips For Finding The Perfect Travel Buddy

I’m a textbook introvert. I enjoy my time alone and traveling is no exception. I love me some solo travel. But sometimes your travel experience can be enhanced and enriched when you bring a travel buddy along for the journey. There’s just something about having company, ya know? You have someone there to pass the time with, laugh at funny stuff, and people watch with. And let’s face it; people watching is ALWAYS more fun with a buddy! But before you choose your travel companion and hop on Preferred Motorcoach Transportation, there are a few things you should consider. I mean, just because you like someone doesn’t mean you should travel with them. #Amirite!? I am! And that’s a lesson I learned the hard way!

If you’re thinking of traveling with someone, and you’ve never traveled with them before, you might want to spend time with them first. Think of it like a pre-interview. Believe it or not, you don’t really know a person until you see their bedtime habits! I recommend a weekend together, so you really get a taste of their habits and quirks and they get a taste of yours. Find out if they snore, if they have insane rituals at night, if they sleep with their eyes open, all kinds of things! I had a roommate (I actually lived with her) who I loved dearly. She and I would hang out all the time and everything. Well, we decided we would go on a road trip together and let’s just say, it wasn’t a good trip. When we were at our apartment, I could go to my space and she could go to hers. But when we were in a hotel room with no escape from each other, that was a different story. Taking the time before to see her in her nighttime habitat might have saved me some very awkward conversations after that trip. I would have learned that that particular homegirl just wouldn’t cut it as a travel buddy. Also, I would’ve gotten some decent sleep at night.

Another thing to keep in mind, and probably the most obvious, is that you should choose someone you actually like talking to. Picture it: you and your companion are on a cross country road trip from one coast to the other. Now imagine the sound of that person’s voice grates your nerves like sandpaper on wood. Doesn’t sound like fun anymore, does it? And kind of hand in hand with this, make sure that you and your buddy don’t have any unresolved issues or beef. Because that’s just super awkward and ain’t nobody got time for that!

Lastly I suggest you make sure you and your companion have similar tastes. Similar tastes in people, entertainment, how money is spent, etc. Again, this may seem like common sense but you’d be surprised! Not that they have to be your carbon copy (because that would be weird) but you should be like minded. For instance you might want to have a similar stance on interacting with unsavory strangers, or whether it’s better in be bed by 10pm or 10am, or if they value flexibility or prefer to go with the flow. Or whether we stop at a gas station for the bathroom or just pull over on the side of the road, a situation I was put in in real life because I didn’t travel with a like minded person. Never. Again.

So guys, any travel companions you wish you’d vetted first? Let me know in the comments!

Perfect Father’s Day Gifts For Any Travel Loving Dad

Hi guys!

As I’m sure you’re aware, Sunday will be Father’s Day! My dad enjoys traveling. He’s had the opportunity to go all over the world so I was thinking that the perfect gift for him might be something he can use on his next trip. I know some of you are the perfect kids and already have the perfect gift picked out for the special day. Then there are those of us who just can’t make up our minds about what to get! So if you fall into the latter group, along with myself, I have a few gift ideas for you!

A New Set of Luggage

I really like luggage. And I like switching it up every now and then to suit your mood and ever evolving tastes! This would be perfect for Pop’s next getaway! Plus, Macy’s is having a Father’s Day sale on luggage. You’re welcome.

Rechargable Travel Shaver

This is so neat. Sleek, light weight, and you charge it just like you would your phone! Perfect for the guys into shaving stuff! And it’s pretty adorable as well. Get this one here.

Ray-Ban Aviator Shades

These are the epitome of cool. And dad will step into his next destination looking super cool, dad bod and all. Get them here.

An Apple Watch

This is a bit pricey but look, it deserves a spot on this list. This watch does everything! It will even help if he maybe gets lost. Maybe. But the best feature is, in my humble opinion, the ability to speak into it like James Bond! Dad will approve, I’m sure! Pick one up here.

A Digital Camera

Is your papa a budding Annie Leibovitz? Of course he is. For his next trip, you can send him with the perfect photo tech to document his every move! If you want to be really next level, pick that man up a selfie stick, too! Amazon for the win!

Practical Things

Travel adapters. Insulated mugs. Yes, these things may seem boring BUT these are things I know my dad uses on a daily basis. It’s always a great idea to have some extra adapters and what not for dad to take with him. You never know where you might end up! Amazon is the perfect place to find this stuff!

Happy Father’s Day from Preferred Motorcoach Transportation!

So have you picked up your Father’s Day gifts yet?

10 Incredible Pictures of the Flooding in Texas And How You Can Help

Hi guys!

If you don’t live in Texas you’ve probably heard by now that we are experiencing an insane amount of rainfall. For instance in Dallas, it has rained nearly everyday this month. Like I said. Insane. Originally, Texas was in the midst of an intense drought so the rain was welcomed with open arms. But it has gotten old fast, pummeling the state with so much widespread rain that we seem to be under a constant flash flood warning. People have lost their homes and possessions, gone missing, and even passed away. Take a look at some of the incredible photos captured of the Texas flooding.

Houston, Texas

San Marcos, Texas

Grand Prairie, Texas

Austin, Texas

Kyle, Texas

Ft. Worth, Texas

Wimberley, Texas

Wimberley, Texas

Houston, Texas

Dallas, Texas

Did you experience any crazy flooding! Let me know in the comments! And if you’d like to help the Texans impacted by the flooding, or if you’ve been impacted yourself, please visit the following links:

Samaritan’s Purse International Relief

American Red Cross

Salvation Army

Be safe y’all!

-Preferred Motorcoach Transportation

Overcoming Homesickness on Vacation

Hey guys! If you’re like me, you’ve definitely experienced homesickness while on vacation. I know it seems kind of backwards, after all, you go on vacation to get away from home. But it happens all the time; you’re super excited to get out there for a new adventure and BAM! You see something a loved one would like and all of a sudden you find yourself wondering what you’re missing at home or what your family is up to. This can be especially hard if you haven’t gone far from home before, but there are things you can do to combat that feeling of longing and enjoy your adventure with Preferred Motorcoach Transportation!

Pack a picture of favorite thing to keep with you. This can help keep you  comfy in your temporarily new environment. A stuffed teddy or a family photo can really do the trick. This is something I do because it just makes me feel better. Don’t judge me.

Like ET, phone home. But not too much. If you don’t get the balance just right, you could end up missing home even more than you already do; wondering what’s going on and completely missing what’s going on around you. If you’re on the phone too much you also run the risk of missing out on opportunities to meet new people or make new friends!

Try to immerse yourself in the new city. Go to the popular cites and get to know the city for yourself. You could also establish a “daily ritual” like going to a local coffee shop every morning. It can be very comforting when you walk into a place out of town and you’re recognized. Trust me! Make new friends!

Share some photos and videos on social media with your friends and family. Let them live vicariously through you. When I am out and about, my mom really loves to see my pictures. One of the pictures I took during some time in New York is her screen saver on her phone. Moms like that kind of thing.

Just like the phone, you shouldn’t spend too much time on social media. You don’t have to post every single picture you take. Save most of them for the special folks waiting for you back home. When your head is buried in your phone, you’re not aware of your present. You want to make sure you enjoy your time away and you’ll have some epic stories to tell everyone when you get back home!

So, how do you deal with homesickness when you’re on vacay? Do you even get homesick? Let me know in the comments!

10 Hilarious Road Signs That Actually Exist

So. If you happen to be traveling on I-45 in Dallas, Texas between I-20 and I-35 you will see a sign warning against picking up hitchhikers because there is a prison in the area. Seriously. Now, I moved to Dallas from Kansas and I don’t recall ever seeing a road sign like this one. This both fascinated and intrigued me. Now, when I’m on a road trip, I will actively look out for weird, strange and funny road and street signs. Here are a few that actually exist in real life, y’all.

Oh. Ok. Thanks.

So let me get this straight… A COW might fall on my car if I drive here?

I want no parts of whatever this is. *Turns car around*

Um… What?

How helpful… *side eye*

Come on!!

Welp.

What does this even mean?!

Or nah?

Obviously.

Keep your eyes open for this hilarity, guys!

What are some crazy signs you’ve seen while on the road? Let me know in the comments!

The Red River Rivalry and the BEST State Fair Ever

It’s officially Fall, y’all!

We took a little break for the end of summer but fall is here and we are back in action. This happens to be my absolute favorite season. The colors, the cool weather, the clothes, all of it! Not to mention the national holiday that is my birthday is in fall (I’ll tell you where to send gifts closer to time.) But anyway, one of the best parts of Texas in the fall is the arrival of the State Fair of Texas. It is held at Fair Park in Dallas (my hometown!) and has the distinct honor of being the country’s biggest state fair. Because everything’s bigger in Texas, obvs. Our fair happens to be the absolute best state fair in this country. That is not debatable. Our fair has…

The unhealthiest best food.

We will fry anything. We have no shame.

The creepiest best mascot.

He talks, waves, and looks at you. Which is not creepy at all…

Plus, Oprah dedicated a whole show to the Texas State Fair so that pretty much squashes any arguments.

Here is Oprah doing Oprah things at the Texas State Fair.

One of the most anticipated events of the State Fair of Texas is the Red River Showdown. The Red River Showdown is the big college football game that takes place between University of Texas, located in Austin and University of Oklahoma, located in Norman. The Texas/OU rivalry is one of the biggest college football rivalries ever and Texas/OU weekend at the Fair is a pretty big deal. For several days, floods of burnt orange and crimson descend on the city of Dallas and let me tell you, they really get into it. My sister is a graduate of Texas and by default she has very strong feelings about OU. It’s really an incredible time to be in Dallas!

Sides are CLEARLY drawn. This is not a game.

The famous game has been played since 1900 and has undergone a few name changes over the years. When I moved to Texas, it was called ‘The Red River Shootout’. It was then changed to ‘Red River Showdown’. Now, we apparently call it ‘Red River Rivalry’. Whatever name you call it—it’s still the Red River Shootout to me; I don’t care what ‘they’ say—the atmosphere is still the same. It’s fun, loud, and vibrant! I mean, this is one of the most fun times to be in Dallas! Even the local businesses get involved, displaying flags and signs and what not. My favorite thing is the ball on top of Reunion Tower. Leading up to the game, the ball will light up half crimson and half burnt orange. When one team wins (OU has won three of the last four games), the ball will light up fully for that team. It’s pretty cool to see in person.

 

If you haven’t experienced the State Fair, Texas/OU weekend is a great time to go! Your ticket to the game includes admission to the fair. This year, the game will take place on Saturday, October 6^th. So make your way on down. You know you want to!

 

 

Is anyone heading to the game this year? Let me know in the comments! Preferred Motorcoach can get you there!

Tips To Stay Comfy On The Road

As we saw a couple of weeks ago, people can be very particular about their snacks. But if you want to stay comfortable, the truth is the healthier your snacks, the better. Veggies, fruit, nuts, and things like that will make you and your tummy feel a lot better during a long trip than sugary drinks and chips. But if you must have some junk food, I feel you. Just eat sparingly.

Yaaaaaaasss!

 

Whether you’re in a car or Preferred Motorcoach Transportation is chauffeuring you (wink, wink), remember to take advantage of those rest stops. These are opportunities for you to get up, walk and stand outside, go to the bathroom, and get some fresh air. This helps you keep all the circulation and what not circulating and you’ll just be in a better mood. I know this from experience.

God Bless Buc-ee’s. Because Texas.

 

One thing I’ve noticed on road trips is how trash seems to stockpile itself in the absolute worse way. It ends up taking some of your elbowroom, legroom, all the room! Well a way to remedy this is to keep a trash bag handy. Just throw all that mess in the bag. That way it isn’t infringing on your personal space PLUS it’s easier to throw all the trash away when you stop for a break.

Or make a contraption like this! Fancy!

 

Your clothing options have everything to do with how comfortable you will be on a road trip. You’ll be sitting for a while, so you want to make sure that you’re wearing clothing that is loose and breathable. I love sweat or yoga pants for long haul trips. I almost never travel in jeans because denim is not the most giving material especially when you’ll be sitting for such a long period of time.

Don’t forget your jacket!

 

The kind of shoes you wear can also factor into your comfort. Easy to put on shoes like flip-flops or Toms are my go-to, plus it doesn’t take me a million years to put them on when we stop. Also, I always have socks. They just make me feel better. Is that weird? Never mind. Forget I asked.

 

If you’re going to be on a car or bus for a long time, you need to keep yourself entertained. There’s a list of games on here that can get you started. But there lots of things you can do to pass the time or just make it more interesting like…

Send yourself a postcard from each rest stop (you’d have to keep a few stamps handy)…

Or License plate bingo!

 

What do you do to keep comfy on the road? Let me know in the comments!

Signed,

Preferred Motorcoach Transportation

It’s Time To Talk About…Snacks!

Whenever I’m about to depart on a trip, be that by car or bus, I must have two things: music and snacks. That’s got to be pretty universal, right? I mean, who doesn’t like snacks? Exactly. So I asked a bunch of people that I know conducted a very scientific survey and asked people what snacks they absolutely had to have when they traveled.

The consensus seemed to be that the snack had to be easily consumed in a moving vehicle. Because duh. It was really interesting to see how much we all have in common when it comes to our road trip snacks. Food is a great equalizer.

If you’re going to go the healthy(er) route:

Nuts

Trail Mix

Sunflower Seeds

Chex Mix

Fruit

 

 

If you’re just looking for a good (snack) time:

Chips

Sour candy (apparently, it helps keep you awake. I heard this from several people. Who knew!?)

Twizzlers (also heard from multiple people…)

Popcorn

String Cheese (I don’t like cheese but, I guess…)

 

 

The best thing that happened when I posed this question were the super specific snack stipulations some of my friends have:

“McDonald’s french fries…”

“…those really small ready made sandwiches you can find at the store (for when the hunger struggle gets real)”

“…an energy drink and a Whataburger chicken biscuit…”

“Chester’s hot fries (specifically) or hot pork skins, big peach soda, gummi savers, whole dill pickle (kool aid pickle if possible), sour cream and onion Pringles, and a large bottle of water.” <— This was my favorite one.

Happy Snacking!

 

Signed,

Preferred Motorcoach Transportation

The Family That Vacays Together: Destinations Sure to Please Everyone

When you decide to take a family vacation, there are a lot of things you must take under consideration. Will the kids actually have fun? Will the grown folks be miserable and bored out of their minds? And what if the kiddos are different ages; will everyone be satisfied? Lots ‘o things to think about, eh? Here’s the thing: choosing a destination for a family trip isn’t always so easy. So I figured I’d give you a little inspiration.  You’re welcome.

 

Vail, Colorado
Home of popular the popular Vail Ski Resort in Vail Village, Vail is a perfect destination for a winter themed family getaway. Designed to make you feel like you’re smack dab int eh middle of the Swiss Alps, there are plenty of things to do here that everyone in the fam can enjoy. There are plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment and if you’re not feeling like skiing, there’s also snow shoeing, tubing and other activities to partake in off the slopes.

 

 

Anaheim and Los Angeles, California
Contrary to popular belief, Disneyland (the Most Magical Place on EARTH) is not located in Los Angeles, but actually about 25 miles south of LA in the resort city of Anaheim. The close proximity of the cities (they’re both a part of the same Metro area) make them a perfect ‘kill two birds with one stone’ situation. Hit up LA and see the all the Hollywood landmarks or Universal Studios, and take a few days to check out the fun Anaheim has to offer like Disneyland, California Adventure, and Downtown Disney (my favorite part). Everyone will have a BLAST. Seriously.

 

 

Washington, DC
I am a self proclaimed nerd. I have always loved museums and historical sites. But I think even kids who aren’t as into the museum life as I was (and still am) would have so much fun in the nation’s capitol. There are the obvious tourist stops like the National Mall to see the monuments, duh. But my favorites are the museums like The National Children’s Museum and any of the really cool things housed in the Smithsonian museums. I mean, where else can you see the flag that inspired our national anthem, Prince’s yellow cloud guitar and the Muppets (!!) all in one place?!

 

 

Las Vegas, Nevada
Hold up! Hear me out. While many of the resorts in Vegas have programs and activities to occupy the kids while the parents…play, my opinion is the best place in Vegas for kids is Circus Circus Hotel. I’ve been and let me just say: SO. MUCH. FUN! There is a literal theme park called Adventuredome inside the hotel, not to mention a pool and aracade! Vegas also has numerous shows the kids will enjoy and lots of fun on Fremont Street in Downtown.

 

 

Big Bend (and surrounding areas), Texas
Located in the desert of West Texas, Big Bend is a perfect spot to take the family if you’re looking to unplug and truly retreat. Home to Big Bend National Park, there are plenty of activities to get in touch with nature and get your outdoors on like rafting, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding. There are also plenty of lodging options in case you want to really rough it and pitch your own tent or whatever, or just come to a hotel room at night. It’s up to you, though the park itself is pretty remote so you will have to have a car. A perk: at night, the skies get super dark (something that doesn’t happen in the city), so this it like a star gazers Mecca!

 

 

So what do you think guys? Ready to get the family together? Let me know in the comments!

Signed,

Preferred Motorcoach Transportation