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7 Hidden Corners of Venice Rick Steves Says Are the Most Fascinating

7 Hidden Corners of Venice Rick Steves Says Are the Most Fascinating

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

Venice is admired for its canals and famous squares, yet Rick Steves believes its most memorable experiences happen beyond the landmarks. His recommendations point travelers toward the quieter neighborhoods, authentic eateries, and overlooked islands that still...
9 U.S. States With the Shortest Life Expectancy, According to Data

9 U.S. States With the Shortest Life Expectancy, According to Data

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

While the U.S. remains one of the world’s wealthiest nations, life expectancy continues to decline in several states. Factors like poverty, poor healthcare access, obesity, and substance abuse are driving shorter lifespans, particularly in the South and Appalachia....
8 U.S. Cities Where Homelessness Has Become a Growing Crisis

8 U.S. Cities Where Homelessness Has Become a Growing Crisis

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

Homelessness in the United States has reached a critical point, with record numbers of people struggling to find safe, stable housing. Rising rents, limited shelters, and mental health challenges have created visible crises in cities once known for opportunity. From...
15 Vibrant Chinatown Districts Across America You Should Explore

15 Vibrant Chinatown Districts Across America You Should Explore

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

America’s Chinatowns are more than tourist stops; they’re living neighborhoods where generations of immigrants have built thriving communities rich in history and flavor. Each district offers something distinct: steaming dumpling houses, neon-lit markets, ornate...
10 Global Cities Ranked as the Most Paranoid in the World

10 Global Cities Ranked as the Most Paranoid in the World

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

In an age of surveillance cameras, political unrest, and social distrust, paranoia has become a defining feature of modern urban life. Some cities watch their residents more closely than others, driven by fears of crime, terrorism, or instability. While safety is the...
How to Explore Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay Like a Pro

How to Explore Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay Like a Pro

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 13, 2025

At Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay, fun doesn’t just come from thrilling water slides; it’s about the experience. Set around the towering 200-foot Krakatau volcano, this tropical-themed water park feels like stepping into a Polynesian paradise, complete with winding...
9 Smart Ways to Handle Noisy Neighbors on Your Next Cruise

9 Smart Ways to Handle Noisy Neighbors on Your Next Cruise

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 12, 2025

A cruise is meant to be relaxing, but thin cabin walls and late-night partiers can quickly ruin that peace. Many travelers don’t realize how sound carries through corridors and shared balconies until it’s too late. Whether it’s thumping music, slamming doors, or...
10 Stunning Hotels in Rome Set Inside Palaces and Hidden City Gems

10 Stunning Hotels in Rome Set Inside Palaces and Hidden City Gems

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 12, 2025

Rome is a city where history lives behind every door, and some doors open to true masterpieces. Across cobblestoned streets and quiet piazzas, ancient palaces and hidden villas have transformed into breathtaking hotels that fuse centuries of art, architecture, and...
What to Know About Getting Italian Citizenship Through Your Family Roots

What to Know About Getting Italian Citizenship Through Your Family Roots

by Elias Siegelman | Nov 12, 2025

Many Americans with Italian ancestry are realizing they may already qualify for Italian citizenship through descent. This process, known as jure sanguinis or “by blood,” recognizes people whose ancestors were born in Italy and passed on citizenship through...
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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!

Latest Posts

Recent Posts

  • The American road trip motels that still look frozen in the 1950s
  • Vintage car museums across America every auto fan should visit
  • Scenic American highways every road trip lover should drive once
  • Classic roadside gas stations that still feel stuck in the past
  • Your phone will usually work at sea, but there’s a catch
  • What are the rules for smoking cigars on a cruise ship?
  • Why experienced cruisers sometimes stay onboard

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