American Nomad Blog
About this blog
American Nomad covers the best of U.S. travel—from vacation deals to festivals, weekend getaways, travel tips, and more. A seasoned traveler and Moon author, Laura is the perfect guide to help discover new gems when traveling domestically.
Recent Posts
- A Southern Girl's Wintertime Adventure in Yellowstone
- One Novelist's Odyssey Across America
- Gearing up for a Family Camping Trip
- Mint Juleps and More at Oak Alley Plantation
- Avoiding Identity Theft While on Vacation
- Money-Saving Travel Tips from Nomadic Matt
- Fashion, Fun, and Convenience for the Modern Traveler
- In Search of Irish Museums Across America
- The Inspiring Journey of a Solo Kayaker
- Getting Fit for Treks in Yosemite and Elsewhere, Part 2
- Getting Fit for Treks in Yosemite and Elsewhere, Part 1
- Experiencing Yosemite with YExplore
- Two Travel Contests Worth Mentioning
- A Word About the TSA's No-No List
- A Reader's Advice About Airport Security
Exploring the Cherry Republic
Key West has the Conch Republic, California wine lovers have the Barefoot Republic, and fashionistas have the Banana Republic. In Glen Arbor, Michigan, you’ll find the Cherry Republic (6026 S. Lake St., 231/334-6340 or 800/206-6949), where an entrance sign reads, “Declare all bananas.” more >>
Blues and Barbecue on Beale
Last month, someone asked me for some advice about traveling in Tennessee. Naturally, that got me thinking about my favorite spots in the Volunteer State, from Ruby Falls (1720 S. Scenic Hwy., 423/821-2544, daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m., $16-44 adults, $8-23 children 3-12), an impressive underground waterfall in Chattanooga, to the renowned Grand Ole Opry (2802 Opryland Dr., 615/871-6779, hours and prices vary) in Nashville, where I once witnessed the zany antics of Minnie Pearl. more >>
Precious Coastlines
For the third weekend this summer, the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) is waiving the entrance fees to all of its parks, monuments, recreation areas, and other unique places. So, if you’re looking for an excuse to flee the house – and hoping to take advantage of the summer weather – consider visiting one of America’s amazing coastlines, where popular activities include swimming, beachcombing, hiking, and picnicking. more >>
An Amarillo Detour
Last month, a reader informed me that she’s planning a cross-country RV trip this winter – from North Carolina to Florida to the West Coast. Since she’s never taken such a trip before, she was wondering if I had any suggestions for must-see destinations along the way. In fact, my husband and I have made the trip between Florida and California several times, though our specific itinerary has always depended on the amount of time available. more >>
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Moon Travel Guides make independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert and adventurous travel writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic travel advice, insider travel tips and an essential dose of humor, Moon Travel Guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience. Each travel book is filled with unique trip ideas, easy-to-use maps, and detailed information on sights, restaurants, and accommodations. Moon Travel Guides not only point you in the right direction, they inspire new ideas and adventure. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach trip to Hawaii, or an adventure travel trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, Moon guidebooks—and Moon.com—are with you every step of the way. Founded in 1973, the Moon Travel Guides series includes Moon Handbooks, Moon Outdoors, Moon Metro, Moon Living Abroad and Moon Spotlight travel books. Moon is based in Berkeley, California and is a proud member of the Perseus Books Group.