Category: Travel

To travel is to learn. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles – this category focuses on all of the trips I have taken and had the good fortune to document.

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An End-of-Year Reflection: What Actually Matters

As the year comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to reflect — not just on where I ended up, but on what I learned along the way.

This isn’t meant to be a highlight reel or a list of accomplishments. It’s more of an honest check-in: how my health goals evolved, what travel taught me, and why connection and presence matter more than ever.

If you’re ending the year with mixed emotions — progress in some areas, challenges in others — you’re not alone.

A Health Update (With Tips You Can Actually Use)

I talk in the video about my health goals this year, but the focus isn’t really on me. It’s about what might help you if you’re trying to make sustainable changes.

Some themes that guided me this year:

  • Prioritizing whole foods over processed ones
  • Reducing added sugar instead of obsessing over restriction
  • Choosing consistency over intensity
  • Making health something that fits into real life

Health goals don’t have to be extreme to be effective. Small, repeatable habits tend to matter far more than short bursts of motivation.

Travel, Work, and Staying Health-Focused

This year included travel to England, Costa Rica, India, and California, and I was lucky to meet a lot of great people along the way.

Travel is energizing — but it can also make staying health-focused more complicated, especially when food is deeply tied to culture, hospitality, and connection.

In the video, I talk about:

  • How being health-conscious can sometimes feel isolating
  • Navigating meals respectfully when traveling for work
  • Finding balance without offending hosts or drawing attention
  • Giving yourself flexibility without abandoning your goals

Health doesn’t have to mean isolation — but it does require intention, especially in unfamiliar environments.

Perspective Changes Everything

This year reinforced something important: progress and gratitude can coexist with difficulty.

It’s not always easy to celebrate good things when life feels heavy. That tension shaped how I looked at everything — health, travel, and relationships included.

Because of that, I want to emphasize a few things that truly matter:

  • Get your annual medical checkups
  • Have routine blood work done
  • Don’t delay seeing a doctor when something feels off
  • Spend real, in-person time with the people you care about

After years of disruption and distance, presence matters more than ever.

Carrying the Right Things Forward

This reflection isn’t about closing the book on the year — it’s about deciding what to carry forward.

For me, that means:

  • Staying health-focused without becoming rigid
  • Traveling with curiosity and respect
  • Choosing connection over convenience
  • Making time for the people who matter

If this message resonates with you, I hope it encourages you to check in with yourself — physically, mentally, and relationally — as the year turns over.

Final Thought

Life doesn’t move in straight lines. Some years are about growth, some are about endurance, and some are about perspective.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and watch the video. If you feel comfortable sharing, I’d love to hear what this year taught you — or what you’re hoping to focus on next.

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My Rainy November Adventure in Joshua Tree & Palm Springs

Introduction

Our November trip to California was supposed to be a classic desert escape — warm days, cool nights, scenic hikes, and endless sun. Instead… the desert decided to cosplay as Seattle. It rained almost every day, temps fell into the 40s at night, and we had to improvise our way through the limited time we had.

But honestly? The chaos made the adventure even better.

From eBiking through Joshua Tree National Park, to discovering great local food, to finding creative indoor activities when the rain wouldn’t stop… here’s the full breakdown of our unexpected (but very memorable) trip.

Day 1: Exploring Joshua Tree on eBikes

Our first day — and one of the only days without heavy rain — was spent in Joshua Tree National Park. We rented eBikes and rode through the park’s surreal landscapes:

  • Massive boulder formations
  • Joshua trees stretching across the desert
  • Quiet, open trails
  • Scenic vantage points that look like another planet

Riding eBikes here was a game-changer: effortless uphill, fast on flat stretches, and a perfect way to see more of the park without burning the entire day.

After exploring Hidden Valley and the surrounding formations, we headed to Las Palmas, a local Mexican spot. The food was exactly what you want after hours of fresh air — hearty, flavorful, and authentic.

Food Finds: From Mexican to German to Classic Deli

This trip turned into an accidental food tour, and we weren’t mad about it. Some standouts:

🌮 Las Palmas — Joshua Tree

Authentic Mexican food, generous portions, and friendly service. A perfect post-ride meal.

🇩🇪 Alps Village — Indio

A surprising gem! A German restaurant in Indio serving warm, comforting classics. Great schnitzel, friendly staff — the kind of place you’re glad you stumbled upon.

🥪 Sherman’s Deli — Palm Springs

We didn’t film much here, but trust us… this Palm Springs staple is worth the hype. Classic deli food, huge portions, and great for a rainy-day lunch.

Indoor Adventures: Making the Best of Rainy Palm Springs

With outdoor plans washed out, we turned to creative alternatives.

🛍️ The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five

A beautifully curated collection of boutique shops. A great spot to browse local art, clothing, home goods, and quirky finds.

🎎 Wabi Sabi Japan Living — Palm Springs

Hands down one of our favorite shops of the trip.
Unique gifts, beautiful Japanese home goods, and incredibly friendly staff.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for thoughtful souvenirs or just a peaceful browsing experience.

🎯 Indoor Axe Throwing — Robin Hood Archery Academy & Games (Indio)

We spent a rainy afternoon doing axe throwing and archery, and the staff couldn’t have been nicer. A perfect activity when the weather shuts down the outdoors.

Spa Time: The Spa at Sec-he

We made a last-minute decision to try The Spa at Sec-he, and it was a highlight of the trip. Warm pools, relaxing spaces, and a great escape from the chilly weather outside.

If you’re staying in Palm Springs and need something relaxing to do indoors, this is an excellent choice.

The Great Date Shake Quest

Trying a local date shake was at the top of our list, and we sampled a few different spots.

The winner — by a landslide — was Shields Date Garden.

  • Perfect texture
  • Not too sweet
  • Strong date flavor
  • Awesome Coffee Version (so good!)
  • Iconic Palm Springs experience

If you’re only going to try one date shake in the region, make it this one.

Final Thoughts

This trip didn’t go as planned.
It was colder, rainier, and more unpredictable than any November desert vacation should be. But the unexpected twists pushed us into new adventures:

  • eBiking through Joshua Tree
  • Finding amazing local food
  • Discovering shops and indoor activities
  • Relaxing at a desert spa
  • Hunting down the perfect date shake

Sometimes the best trips aren’t the ones you plan — they’re the ones you adapt to.

Thanks for checking out our adventure! If you’re planning a trip to Joshua Tree or Palm Springs, I hope this gives you ideas for both sunny days and the occasional surprise rainstorm.

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California Travel Reflections

After exploring California’s Central Coast and San Francisco, I’m wrapping up the trip with some personal reflections, travel takeaways, and honest observations. From charming small towns to big city highlights, this video summarizes what stood out — and what didn’t — during our week on the road.

🌄 Central Coast Takeaways:
From Monterey and Morro Bay to San Luis Obispo, California’s Central Coast truly delivered. The natural beauty, laid-back energy, and welcoming communities made this stretch of the trip feel unforgettable — especially scenic drives down Highway 1, relaxing moments in Montaña de Oro, and delicious meals at spots like Louisa’s Place and Frankie & Lola’s.

🌉 San Francisco Highlights:
While the city itself didn’t hold quite the same appeal for me this time, there were still some standout experiences — including a peaceful walk through the Japanese Tea Garden and a great afternoon exploring Hayes Valley, one of SF’s most livable and stylish neighborhoods.

🥩 Best Meals of the Trip?
I share my thoughts comparing iconic spots like the House of Prime Rib and the Madonna Inn — both memorable for different reasons. Plus a recap of where we ate, what we loved, and what we’d skip next time.

And a special shout out to Papas and Eggs in Gilroy, CA – great breakfast!

📍 Topics in this video:

  • My honest opinion on the Central Coast vs. San Francisco
  • Restaurant comparisons: House of Prime Rib vs. Madonna Inn
  • Reflections on small towns, hidden gems, and the changing way I travel

If you’re thinking about visiting California’s coastal regions, this wrap-up is for you — packed with recommendations, lessons learned, and candid travel insights.

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House of Prime Rib (HoPR) – San Francisco

We finally made it back to House of Prime Rib (HoPR) in San Francisco, and once again — it absolutely delivered. While we’ve dined here before, this was Ben and Ryan’s first time, and from the prime rib to the cocktails to the unmatched service, the entire experience was nothing short of spectacular.

🥩 What makes House of Prime Rib legendary?

  • Perfectly cooked prime rib, carved tableside
  • Rich, buttery mashed potatoes and classic creamed spinach
  • House-made salad spun tableside with signature dressing
  • Top-tier cocktails and a timeless, old-school atmosphere
  • Service that’s attentive, friendly, and flawlessly executed

Whether you have a reservation months in advance or you’re lining up early to score a walk-in, it’s absolutely worth the effort. The House of Prime Rib isn’t just a meal — it’s a San Francisco institution, and it never disappoints.

📍Located on Van Ness Ave, this classic steakhouse is a must for anyone visiting the Bay Area or celebrating a special night out.

✅ In this video:

  1. Full tour of the House of Prime Rib experience
  2. Ben and Ryan’s first reactions
  3. Our favorite menu items and drink picks
  4. Tips on how to book (and what to expect if you walk in)
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Morro Bay: A Hidden Gem on the Central Coast

Discover one of California’s most underrated coastal destinations as we explore the natural beauty and local charm of Morro Bay on the Central Coast.

Our morning started with a visit to the iconic Morro Rock — a towering volcanic plug rising from the ocean, offering sweeping views and a peaceful walk along the shore. Then we headed to a local favorite for breakfast: Frankie and Lola’s, a cozy café near the waterfront known for friendly service and hearty, flavorful dishes.

The highlight of the day? A relaxing wildlife boat tour through Morro Bay’s calm estuary. We spotted sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, and other native wildlife, along with dramatic coastal rock formations and hidden coves you can only see from the water.

📍 In this video:

  • Scenic views of Morro Rock
  • Breakfast at Frankie and Lola’s Front Street Café
  • Boat ride through Morro Bay Estuary
  • Wildlife sightings: sea lions, seabirds & more
  • Why Morro Bay is a must-see hidden gem on any California road trip

Whether you’re planning your next trip or just need a virtual escape, Morro Bay delivers quiet beauty, wildlife, and local flavor — all without the crowds of bigger tourist spots.

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Dining at the Madonna Inn (SLO)

Join us for a one-of-a-kind dining experience at the iconic Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, California — a Central Coast legend known for its over-the-top pink decor, kitschy charm, and famous pink champagne cake.

This wasn’t our first visit, but the whimsical design and warm service made us come back. We had dinner in the Gold Rush Steakhouse, where Ben and Ryan really enjoyed their perfectly cooked steaks, while Allison and I found our New York strips a touch overdone — not bad at all, but just a little past medium.

Still, the setting more than made up for it. With its bubblegum-pink booths, gold accents, and glowing chandeliers, the Madonna Inn delivers a dining vibe unlike anywhere else.

🍽️ Highlights Include:

  • A peek inside the Madonna Inn’s wildly colorful dining room
  • Our honest take on steaks and sides
  • Finishing off with a slice of the legendary pink champagne cake

If you love quirky roadside Americana, retro glam, or just a meal you’ll never forget — the Madonna Inn is a must-see destination on your California road trip.

📍Located off Highway 101 in San Luis Obispo