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15 Historic Monasteries and Abbeys in America You Can Tour

15 Historic Monasteries and Abbeys in America You Can Tour

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 12, 2026

America has monastic sites that are both historic and open to visitors, yet they still function as living communities. Tour access is usually limited to churches, visitor centers, libraries, and marked grounds, so daily prayer is not interrupted. This guide highlights...
8 Rocky Mountain Ski Resorts Where Lift Lines Stay Short

8 Rocky Mountain Ski Resorts Where Lift Lines Stay Short

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 12, 2026

Ski enthusiasts often dread long lift lines that eat into precious powder time, but not all Rocky Mountain resorts are overrun. Some resorts maintain smaller crowds, offering wide-open slopes, scenic runs, and a more relaxed atmosphere. These destinations combine...
10 European Cities Known for the Quietest Nightlife Scenes

10 European Cities Known for the Quietest Nightlife Scenes

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 12, 2026

Some European cities are known for evenings that stay calm because late licenses are limited, historic districts are protected, and residents expect quiet after dinner. A low-key nightlife scene can still include good food, local beer, and small music sets, yet crowds...
Why Barge Cruising Is Becoming a Smarter Way to See Europe in Summer

Why Barge Cruising Is Becoming a Smarter Way to See Europe in Summer

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 12, 2026

In recent years, barge cruising has become a smarter, increasingly popular way to explore Europe, especially during the summer months. Unlike busy river cruises or tightly scheduled city tours, barge travel emphasizes slow, immersive journeys along historic waterways,...
The Costly Overseas Travel Mistake Overplanners Keep Making

The Costly Overseas Travel Mistake Overplanners Keep Making

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 12, 2026

Many travelers dream of a flawless overseas trip, meticulously planning every detail from flights to daily activities. While preparation is important, overplanning can backfire, leading to unnecessary stress, missed opportunities, and inflated costs. Travelers may...
12 Midwest Places Travelers Find Culturally Complex and Hard to Read

12 Midwest Places Travelers Find Culturally Complex and Hard to Read

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 11, 2026

The Midwest is often perceived as straightforward, but many of its towns and cities are culturally complex, blending history, tradition, and modernity in ways that surprise visitors at every turn. From industrial roots to immigrant influences, each place carries...
9 Countries With the Lowest Annual Rainfall for Sunny Travel Plans

9 Countries With the Lowest Annual Rainfall for Sunny Travel Plans

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 11, 2026

For travelers who plan trips around sunshine rather than umbrellas, annual rainfall matters more than almost any other climate factor. Some countries receive remarkably little rain year-round, offering clear skies, dry air, and predictable travel conditions. These...
7 Premium Economy Airline Seats That Actually Feel Worth It in 2026

7 Premium Economy Airline Seats That Actually Feel Worth It in 2026

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 11, 2026

Premium economy is where long flights feel manageable without the price shock of business class. Some airlines now treat this cabin as a real product with wider seats, stronger leg support, and service that stays attentive after the first meal. For 2026, the picks...
11 Airport Border Rules Travelers Are Often Surprised by

11 Airport Border Rules Travelers Are Often Surprised by

by Elias Siegelman | Jan 11, 2026

Air travel is routine for many, but crossing borders still comes with rules and regulations that can surprise even seasoned travelers. From customs inspections to visa requirements, each country has its own protocols that impact what you can carry, how you pass...
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Howard Driving

Welcome to Backroad Planet!

I’m Howard, a guy from Central Florida who believes taking scenic routes, scouting historical sites, and immersion in local flavor are the best ways to travel. Whether it be road trips across America, fly-drives to international destinations, or cruises on the mighty waters, I invite you to use Backroad Planet’s destination stories, travel guides, and planning resources to design your own adventures. Please contact me if I can assist you in any way.

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Howard

Howard Blount Backroad Planet

Howard is an avid roadtripper, cruiser, and rail-rider. He tends to overplan, always cramming too many activities and destinations in a single itinerary. On Backroad Planet, well, he pretty much does it all . . . .

Axle

Axle dachshund in car

Axle is Howard’s occasional road trip buddy. He loves to hop in the car and travel anywhere. Long trips and short trips are both great, as long as he doesn’t get left at home!

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