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.
Catch you on the backroads . . . .
Recent Posts
Classic roadside gas stations that still feel stuck in the past
America’s historic roadside gas stations remain powerful symbols of the golden age of road trips and highway travel. Long before massive convenience chains took over, these small stations served as gathering places for travelers crossing the country. Many of these...
Your phone will usually work at sea, but there’s a catch
Many travelers assume their normal cell service will work the same way on a cruise ship as it does on land. In reality, cruise ships often connect phones through special maritime networks that can trigger expensive international roaming charges. Without the right...
What are the rules for smoking cigars on a cruise ship?
Most cruise lines allow cigar smoking, but only in specific designated areas. Guests generally cannot smoke cigars inside cabins, on private balconies, or in most indoor public spaces. Policies vary by cruise line and ship, so travelers should review smoking rules...
design your own Road trip
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OCEAN & RIVER CRUISES
Cruising with NCL: An Insider Guide
Cruising with NCL just got easier with this Backroad Planet collection of tips, tricks, and opinions compiled by two avid Norwegian Cruise Line insiders.
15 Things to Know About the NCL Bliss Cruise Experience
A list of random observations and candid reflections from a 15-day Panama Canal sailing aboard the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship.
15 Things to Know About the NCL Dawn Cruise Experience
A collection of random reflections and candid observations from an 11-day Caribbean sailing aboard the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship.
ROAD TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES
America’s weirdest roadside attractions still drawing crowds
Roadside attractions have been part of American travel culture for generations. From giant sculptures to unusual museums, these quirky stops continue to entertain travelers looking for something unexpected during long road trips. Many of these attractions became...
Historic Route 66 stops that still feel frozen in time
Route 66 remains one of America’s most legendary highways and continues to attract travelers from around the world. Stretching across multiple states, the historic road became a symbol of freedom, adventure, and classic American road trips. Although parts of the...
Scenic back roads that beat America’s busy highways
America’s back roads continue to attract travelers who want more than crowded highways and fast-moving traffic. These scenic routes often lead through mountains, deserts, forests, and small towns that many tourists never see. Road trips have become increasingly...
AUTOMOTIVE RESOURCES
How To Prepare Your Car For Summer
Before you head out on a summer road trip, get your car in top-notch shape with these essential vehicle maintenance tips.
How to Choose the Best Car for Your Cross-Country Road Trip
Gas mileage, storage space, and extra features are all important considerations when purchasing a new vehicle for a cross-country road trip.
How to Get Your Vehicle Road Trip Ready
Don’t let emergency breakdowns spoil your vacation! Get your vehicle road trip ready with this handy pre-trip checklist.