From Nerd Wallet
Whether you like to travel near or far, domestic travel closer to home may be the first opportunity we have to venture out. When restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic start to lift, shorter road trips might be the perfect stepping stone to ease your way back into the groove.
According to an MMGY Global Travel Intention Pulse Survey with the U.S. Travel Association, 68% of consumers feel safe in their cars, foreshadowing a possible boom in road trips (especially as summer approaches).
These five trip ideas from around the country have a little something for everyone. If your miles and points have been a burning hole in your pocket, there are plenty of earning and redemption opportunities to keep your journey affordable and luxurious, too.
One caveat: State rules vary on what can open and when. Check with every locale you’ll stop in to make sure your preferred hotels, restaurants and attractions are accepting visitors before your trip, as things can change quickly.
California's Highway 1
This is a great family trip, especially for those starting north of San Francisco and heading down to San Diego (or vice versa). Some of Highway 1’s most scenic stretches are within San Luis Obispo County, often called SLO, thanks to 100 miles of Pacific coastline (much of it protected). It is also home to one of the only drivable beaches in the state.
This road trip takes travelers to 13 state parks, numerous beachfront vineyards and National Historic Landmark Hearst Castle. There are lots of places to stay at the major cities and scenic towns along Highway 1, with some true standouts.
Vespera ON OCEAN, An Autograph Collection property along Pismo Beach is a Marriott Bonvoy Category 6 property. One night ranges in price from 40,000 to 60,000 points. Another option is Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, in Monterey County. Alila participates in World of Hyatt as a Category 7 hotel, which prices at 30,000 points per night.
Read the full article from Nerd Wallet here.
