Do we really know what it's like living in North America? I think not. Allow me to elaborate.
I have been residing in the USA for over 25 years, specifically in Richardson, a charming city near Dallas in the friendly state of Texas. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to visit other major cities in the USA, such as NYC, LA, Memphis, Kansas, and many others. To be honest, they all seem quite similar. Highways, strip malls, and big box stores dominate the landscape.
Most of us could easily be transported to a suburb of any large city, and we would feel right at home. The proliferation of chain outlets has resulted in a homogenized urban environment, where every street corner resembles the next.
This made me wonder about the distribution of the population in the USA and Canada—how many people live in large cities like I do, and how many reside in the remote, rural areas of this vast continent?
I was surprised to discover that only 18% of our countries' populations live in rural areas. When you look at the maps of the USA and Canada, you see countless small dots representing towns and villages, yet they account for a small fraction of the overall population.
Another curious observation is that I personally don't know anyone residing in those dots on the map—the small villages and towns that form tight-knit communities. Everyone I know hails from places like New York, Los Angeles, or Austin—major urban centers.
Numerous questions started swirling in my mind about what it's like to live in a small, slow-paced town. Do residents know everyone in the community? Are there local theaters showcasing performances by talented locals? Is crime virtually nonexistent? Do people genuinely leave their cars and doors unlocked? Would the police offer you a ride home if you had a few too many drinks at the bar, as they do in the movies?
These inquiries multiplied, fueling my growing interest in the subject.
Thus, I embarked on the Hidden Trail Expedition—a road trip spanning 8,000 miles, devoid of highways. I will traverse the smaller roads and paths, engaging in conversations with locals along the way. From barbers and bartenders to shop owners, teachers, waitresses, policemen, firemen, plumbers, electricians, truckers, high school students, housewives, and anyone willing to share their experiences.
Are they happier than those dwelling in the big city rat race? Or do they aspire to live like us?
Are they constantly engrossed in their phones, consumed by social media, Twitter, and Instagram? Or do they spend quality time with friends playing bridge and baking cakes for local events?
Over the next 30 days, I will cover a significant amount of ground—starting from Dallas, heading towards Northbay, then Winnipeg, Vancouver, and finally returning to Dallas.
So fasten your seatbelts as we familiarize ourselves with the real North Americans—the individuals who live almost off the grid, far from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan areas. Let's delve into their lives and discover what we may be missing—or not missing—but I suspect we are... missing life as it was before CHATGPT, AI, and everything else that lies ahead.
Stay tuned daily to witness our adventures, learn about our destinations, meet the people we engage with, and uncover what we uncover.
Journey begins May 24th 07:00 !! The Mapped Path (see picture below)
The planned route
Embarking on a road trip entails not only reaching the intended destinations but also immersing oneself in the captivating experiences that unfold along the way. While an initial route may be planned with 80 percent accuracy, it is crucial to remain open to adjustments as time progresses, allowing for detours through scenic landscapes, visits to historical landmarks, and indulgence in renowned local eateries. In this article, we delve into the significance of embracing the unexpected, as it adds a layer of excitement and enrichment to the road trip experience.
Embracing Serendipitous Routes:
While a meticulously planned route may provide a sense of structure, it is the unplanned detours that often lead to breathtaking moments of serendipity. As the journey unfolds, the opportunity to explore scenic routes arises, where travelers can witness awe-inspiring vistas, picturesque landscapes, and hidden gems that may not have been part of the original plan. By allowing room for flexibility and spontaneity, road trippers can create memories that surpass their initial expectations.
Unveiling the Historical Treasures:
Road trips offer a unique chance to engage with history by discovering and visiting historical landmarks along the way. As time progresses and specific areas draw near, incorporating stops at significant sites allows travelers to delve into the rich tapestry of the region's past. Exploring these historical treasures offers a deeper understanding of the local culture, heritage, and the events that have shaped the landscape. It presents an opportunity to appreciate the stories that unfold beyond the main route and imbues the journey with a sense of reverence.
Savoring Local Culinary Delights:
No road trip is complete without experiencing the delectable flavors of local cuisine. As the journey meanders through different regions, taking the time to indulge in famous BBQ joints and other renowned eateries offers a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary traditions and flavors unique to each location. These gastronomic adventures not only satisfy the taste buds but also provide an authentic connection to the local community, creating a holistic road trip experience.
Conclusion:
While a planned route serves as a guiding framework for a road trip, it is the willingness to embrace the unexpected that allows travelers to truly immerse themselves in the journey. By incorporating scenic routes, visiting historical landmarks, and savoring local culinary delights, road trippers can elevate their experiences to new heights. So, as you embark on your next adventure, remember to embrace the serendipitous discoveries that await, for they are the moments that transform a simple road trip into an extraordinary voyage of exploration and enjoyment.
NESPRESSO - Integral part of the adventure
While embarking on a road trip, it is crucial to equip oneself with essential items that enhance the overall experience. Among these essentials, the Vertuo Nespresso Maker stands out as a valuable companion. With its ability to brew rich and flavorful coffee on the go, it adds a touch of convenience and luxury to the journey. Moreover, to ensure an uninterrupted supply of delightful coffee, stocking up on approximately 180 pods is a prudent choice. Assuming an average consumption of 6 pods per day, this quantity will generously last for 30 days, guaranteeing a steady supply of caffeinated bliss throughout the trip.
By embracing the convenience and indulgence provided by the Vertuo Nespresso Maker and a sufficient pod supply, road trip enthusiasts can savor their favorite coffee flavors and enjoy the perfect cup of brew, even while traversing through various destinations.
The JACKERY - will keep the "driving forces" fueled and fed
Acknowledgments go a long way in recognizing the support and contributions of others during a road trip. In this case, special thanks are extended to Eric and Jeff for generously loaning their Jackery 1500 power plant. This powerful device offers versatility and convenience, enabling travelers to experience the joys of "coffee on the go" and more.
With the Jackery 1500, it becomes possible to indulge in freshly brewed coffee anywhere and anytime, allowing for moments of relaxation and appreciation of the surroundings. Additionally, the capabilities of this power plant extend beyond coffee-making, as it can also power a hot water boiler, toaster, panini grill, and a small electric stove top. This means that breakfast can be prepared while on the move, enhancing the overall road trip experience.
By leveraging the Jackery 1500 and its diverse applications, road trip enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom to stop and enjoy their surroundings while still relishing the comforts of a warm cup of coffee and delicious meals. Eric and Jeff's loan of this versatile power plant proves invaluable, adding convenience and culinary delights to the journey.
MERCEDES: Venturing into Uncharted Territories with Unparalleled Comfort "TO BOLDLY GO WHERE FEW CARS HAVE GONE BEFORE" As we embark on our exciting road trip, we are thrilled to introduce the vehicle that will accompany us on this extraordinary journey. Equipped with top-of-the-line features and designed for unparalleled comfort, it promises to make our miles on the road effortlessly enjoyable. With brand new Continental DSW quiet tires, we can look forward to a smooth and serene ride, minimizing road noise and maximizing comfort. One of the standout features of this vehicle is its advanced self-driving capabilities. This cutting-edge technology takes our road trip experience to a whole new level, offering convenience and an added layer of safety. While the car takes care of the driving, we can fully immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery and relish every moment of the adventure. Spoiling us with luxurious amenities, the vehicle boasts massaging seats that provide indulgent relaxation during our long drives. The scented and filtered cabin air enhances the overall ambiance, ensuring a fresh and pleasant environment throughout the journey. With a remarkably quiet cabin, we can enjoy our favorite music and podcasts without any disturbances, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances our road trip experience. While fuel efficiency is a consideration, our chosen vehicle may not be the most gas-efficient option. However, by maintaining a moderate speed of below 65 mph, we can expect a respectable fuel economy of at least 26 miles per gallon. This balance allows us to relish the comfort and luxury of our chosen vehicle while being mindful of our environmental impact. To share our road trip experiences with others and invite engagement, we have creatively adorned the car with two large picture magnets displaying our blog title and website. This enables passing vehicles to easily access our blog, leave comments, and become part of our incredible journey, fostering a sense of community and connection. In conclusion, our road trip adventure is elevated to new heights with the comfort and sophistication of our chosen vehicle. With advanced self-driving capabilities, indulgent features, and the added touch of personalization through our blog magnets, we are ready to embark on a memorable journey, venturing into uncharted territories with style and utmost comfort.
TRIP LIST - What did I forget? Tell Me !!
Basic Tools. Pliers screwdriver hammer Axe
Batteries
Blankets
Buds wireless headset
Bug Spray
Chargers and cables
Electric shaver
Emergency blanket
First aid
Flares
Flashlight
Foam Mat
Hammock
Hydrogenated milks
Igloo Cooler
Knife with Sheath
Lantern
Laptop Work + power supply
MRE Instant Food
Nespresso Coffee machine
Noco jumper cables
Oculus headset
Ose-mesaprole
Pillow
Samsung tablet
Sandwich griller Panini
Sat phone
Shovel
Sleeping Bag
Small frying pan
Small gas stove
Tammy Boxes
Tarp
Tent. Sleeping
Toilet paper
Toiletries
Tooth brush
USB fan
Utensils Knives, Forks, Spoons
Walkie talkie
Water bottles
Water pik
Wet swipes
Wireless speaker
Comments