To those who enjoy review trips and travel content, I want to provide a quick update, and it’s good news (and it’s intended to be on a happy note)…
In this post:
My past many years of travel have been boring(ish)
As I’ve already written about, I recently lost my mom to ovarian cancer, after a battle of over six years, which has been quite the emotional roller coaster. As I explained, my mom had been diagnosed with cancer in 2019, and she outlived any expectation we had for how long she’d be around (which means we constantly lived as if her passing would be imminent — because it seemed like it would be).
With that in mind, that situation made any sort of travel really complicated over that time period, especially given that I’m also married and have two kids now, which kind of take up a lot of time:
- I planned very little travel in advance, since I never knew how things would evolve, so most of the travel that I did plan was last minute
- When I did have a “hall pass” to leave home, I often just preferred to travel to visit my mom and spend quality with her, rather than adventuring off to somewhere
- Reviewing airlines and hotels is also my job, so a vast majority of my travel in recent years has been “pure” review trips, where I basically fly nonstop, with little time on the ground (flying premium cabins might sound fun, but it really isn’t that glam, I promise)
I have no regrets about maximizing quality time with my mom, and putting travel on the back burner. However, I really missed actually planning travel in advance, and for that matter, visiting places I’ve long wanted to go to and spending time on the ground, whether it’s in Greenland or Kyrgyzstan.
How my approach to travel will change going forward
With the above out of the way, I’d like to share that I’m looking forward to increasing the amount that I travel, and also that I plan to adjust the types of trips I take, and how I plan them. Of course it’s not going to be anything like back in the day when I lived in hotels full time, was single, and didn’t have kids. But still, I feel a lot more comfortable with planning travel in advance, and also taking more interesting trips.
As I start to plot out the travel I’d like to take, here’s what I’m thinking:
- I’m going to be doing a lot of travel with my dad; I’ve always enjoyed traveling with him, but in recent years I prioritized travel with my mom, so now my dad will get more attention again (and I apologize in advance, but he gets giddy about Emirates first class, and hasn’t flown it in 11 years, so I think I owe him…)
- I’m still going to do a fair number of “pure” review trips, since ultimately I like to stay on top of airline products, these trips are efficient, and they get me a lot of review content without being away from home long
- I’m so excited to once again have more destination focused trips (beyond just beach vacations), which I just hadn’t made a priority in recent years, so it’s time to start plotting trips to the Canadian Arctic, the Faroe Islands, Georgia (the country, not the state), Greenland, Kyrgyzstan, the United Island Hopper (a destination, as far as I’m concerned!), etc.
So anyway, stay tuned. I’m sitting here currently planning both a destination trip and a review trip, and it sure is a nice change of pace. I think at least one person will be beyond overjoyed by the airline I’m finally going to be reviewing again…
Bottom line
I finally feel like I can once again plan travel in advance, and actually take some slightly longer trips to destinations I’d actually like to visit. In recent years, my travel has been so heavily focused on pure review trips, in order to be away from home for as little time as possible, and instead spend time with my mom.
While I’ll continue to take plenty of those, I’ll also start planning more travel way in advance, plus have more destination focused travel. Oh, and my dad is coming along for much of the ride, so I’m sure he’ll be happy about that. Stay tuned, because I’m just finalizing planning for my first of these trips, and will share those details shortly…
Thanks to everyone for reading, and for the patience with the lack of travel in recent months… I’ll try to make up for it!
I‘m really looking forward to your destination trip reviews! And please also take my condolences for your loss.
I'd love to see an Air Astana review! That's a trip to Kazakhstan though, not Kyrgyzstan. Let me know if you need any help or advice, my spouse is Kazakh. :)
You tend to focus on the same destinations and the same airlines and hotel groups. There are many airlines and hotel groups you have not tried. Also, I think it is important to consider the way many or most people use points and miles.
How is it that many or most people use points and miles? Nobody wants to read a trip report of AAn economy class journey from Miami to Pocatello via DFW and LAX.
I'd agree with a bit more variety in hotels. There's a very heavy focus on Hyatt and Four Seasons, with other major global chains being ignored almost entirely - what about Accor, Radisson etc.
Or if you want to focus more on luxury, then maybe Rosewood or Shangri-La?
We are staying tuned and ready. Let’s fly!
Once you start travelling again consider the ''Stans''. We are now in Uzbekistan , lovely country and I believe it is the best of the 5 .
Ben, could you also make a post detailing what you bring with you on your travels? Like what is in your dopp kit/washbag, which one do you use, duffle bags/backpack/rollers, airport outfits, travel size products, tech accessories, etc. Curious to learn HOW and with WHAT do you travel on top of where you go!! :)
Whilst I was very sad that you recently lost your mother after her long and courageous health battle, I reluctantly held back and did not join the hundreds of readers in posting words of condolence as I knew, from experience, that you would eventually heal and recover and that my words would perhaps, only just come across as mere "words".
It is reassuring that you found strength and comfort from all the very kind messages...
Whilst I was very sad that you recently lost your mother after her long and courageous health battle, I reluctantly held back and did not join the hundreds of readers in posting words of condolence as I knew, from experience, that you would eventually heal and recover and that my words would perhaps, only just come across as mere "words".
It is reassuring that you found strength and comfort from all the very kind messages that you received but I was somewhat alarmed at your use of the word "distraction" when referring to Ford and your children in Miami. Your family should be your utmost priority at this point of time. They (and particularly Ford) will have suffered just as much as yourself during your Mum's long illness and recent demise.
I agree that this site has become rather tired and jaded and is in urgent need of a refresh and the "new beginning" time might now appear to be right for such a correction but I urge you to put on the brakes, step back for a second and re-evaluate these last 4 rollercoaster years and realise that what this turbulent and very difficult period has given you is to be very carefully cherished.
Every now and then I think about Tiffany. When will she write again?
I also enjoyed Tiffany's contributions and her very pleasant manner and good character. An interesting site doesn't necessarily demand magnetic aura personalities but things obviously get a bit weary and off-putting when the writers tone starts to become a little too much self focussed or indulent. Tiffany always came across as a lovely personality and is sorely missed.
Sorry about your mom and thank you for being willing to be open about the emotional toll it took. I enjoy more your insight into the travel industry/programs than another hotel or plane review. Except for a few occurrences, flying in J or staying at the Ritz Carlton isnt that different between airlines and locations.
All of us will always be there for you and support you....even when in a not so far off time you all will be taking TEENAGERS along with you. Will they sit in ecomony??? : )
It’s nice you’re able to find some positives from your recent loss. I look forward to the new vibe.
Ready to ride along via the blog.
Love this, and your heart and mind were in the right place in recent years, IMO. This will also be a great outlet. Looking forward to what's to come!
I always enjoy when you bring your father along for these trips. I enjoy those trip reports even more.
Thank you for putting a human element into your work. AI has nothing on you.
Now that you mention the -stans, I still remember your train ride in Uzbekistan; A local gave a thumbs up on Obama & Trump and a thumbs down to Bush; Alrigthy then. And they kept on insisting they invite you over.
I read many travel blogs, but, yours is the best by far. Thank you for all that you do for our community.
Many blessings to your family and condolences on the loss of your mother.
I just returned from Kyrgyzstan last week.
The Hyatt Regency in Bishkek is in major need of refresh, it is not 5 Star caliber. Opt for Sheraton Bishkek instead, a few blocks away. Ala Archa Nature Park 45 mins outside the city, showcases majestic peaks and a river runs through it. Super popular with locals for a light hike. An overnight into the Chong Kemin Valley to Ashu Guest Lodge turned out to be...
I just returned from Kyrgyzstan last week.
The Hyatt Regency in Bishkek is in major need of refresh, it is not 5 Star caliber. Opt for Sheraton Bishkek instead, a few blocks away. Ala Archa Nature Park 45 mins outside the city, showcases majestic peaks and a river runs through it. Super popular with locals for a light hike. An overnight into the Chong Kemin Valley to Ashu Guest Lodge turned out to be so worthwhile: golden eagles, horseback riding, loads of other activities. Back in Bishkek try Papuri, a lively Georgian restaurant filled with locals, expats, and global travelers.
Keep up the great work with card, mileage hacks and airline reviews/news. Please don’t embarrass yourself with Reddit reposts like Gary at VFTW. That site is awful.
Get your Scuba cert before the Island Hopper if you don't already have - Chuuk is supposed to be epic.
Can't wait!
Why don't you create video content and link it to "One Mile At a Time?"
Marshall
I'm curious to see whether you'll be doing actual travel blogging, using public transport on the ground etc. I know you're more comfortable providing in-depth information about the amazing freshly-baked croissants that guests can enjoy for free in the lobby of a French hotel charging €1.6k a night for a standard room, but maybe it's time to challenge yourself and share some experiences from the perspective of an introvert accustomed to luxury trying to mix...
I'm curious to see whether you'll be doing actual travel blogging, using public transport on the ground etc. I know you're more comfortable providing in-depth information about the amazing freshly-baked croissants that guests can enjoy for free in the lobby of a French hotel charging €1.6k a night for a standard room, but maybe it's time to challenge yourself and share some experiences from the perspective of an introvert accustomed to luxury trying to mix more with the hoi polloi.
Yeah, TBH I’m only here for the rich guy stuff.
Hope someday Ben will take a photo of the dark arrival level roadway of MIA and the Y shaped support beams. These are probably away from the newer American Airlines section and closer to the roadway by concourse E. I saw those as a kid. It made an impression but I never photographed them.
So Ben Schlappig, you are soon to join the distinguished order of “The When-I”.
This is not a wind-up or in any way disrespectful, Ben. “The When-I” is a name which was given to the British Forces personnel who retook the Falkland Islands from the Argentinians, in 1982. The Falkland Islanders at that time did not enjoy the ease, or, variety of international travel opportunities which British Forces personnel were accustomed too. The Islanders gave...
So Ben Schlappig, you are soon to join the distinguished order of “The When-I”.
This is not a wind-up or in any way disrespectful, Ben. “The When-I” is a name which was given to the British Forces personnel who retook the Falkland Islands from the Argentinians, in 1982. The Falkland Islanders at that time did not enjoy the ease, or, variety of international travel opportunities which British Forces personnel were accustomed too. The Islanders gave us that title simply because many Brits started a conversation with “When I was in …. (said country, etc).
I join the other contributors who wish you well in your future travels and look forward to reading your stories which start with: “When I was in …. “ :-)
If Kyrgyzstan then Include Tajikistan. Spent 18 years working in Central Asia and really enjoyed my travels throughout the area. To get to Tajikistan you may have to fly from Almaty or Tashkent. Enjoy your travels.
@ Gorton De Mond -- Hah, I actually made a brief visit to Tajikistan eight years ago, in order to fly Somon Air: https://onemileatatime.com/somon-air-business-class-review/
I'd like to return, though!
Here before VT-CIE or Proximanova comes here to gaslight you again and to fool you into a delusion that Air India is actually changing.
@ Mason -- Funny you mention that...
I suspected that you would be reviewing Air India with your comment on one person being overjoyed and this all but confirms it. In any case, it's good to see you planning some destination trips since I only started reading your blog regularly last year, so I can't wait for whatever you have planned.
Grise Fjord or bust!!!
Glad that you're finally planning to review United's Island Hopper; are you still planning on spending New Year's somewhere in the Pacific? I hope you can fit in AirCalin on one of your legs.
And since you've wanted to see the Northern Lights, did you add Tromsø to the list? Simon Wilson did Tromsø last year.
Hopefully, this means the AI-like "guides" will become less and less of a thing.
Take your time, Ben.
It's not The Amazing Race, anymore.
Enjoy time with Ford, family, and your dad.
Those you know you appreciate your time and reflections, and somewhat expect you to slow down a bit, as bigger priorities are not in the sky, but at home.
Much, very much respect, Ben!!! Wish you all the best!
Looking forward to the next set of reviews.
Looking forward to this new era.
One idea about the island hopper: why not break up the journey? I did two weeks in MAJ, and while that was a big stretch and I would recommend it to time constrained people, the stops of the Island hopper are true off-grid destinations.
This made me smile. I wish you and your father the best on your future adventures!
well deserved and a very respected respite.
Look forward to the future reviews.
--Max
Epic. Can't wait to read your reports. Hope you and dad do get Emirates First on their a380 for the shower! And, for Greenland, I'd imagine you may take that United 'Newark to Nuuk service,' returning in 2026' (as you reported); however, I'd definitely get travel insurance and build-in a few extra days before and after, as precaution, since this summer, there were a lot of cancellations. Either way, it's about both the journey and the destination. Safe travels!
That would be the boring Way to go :)
Who wants to travel in US domestic First Class when you can go in Premium Class on our lovely A330-800 “Tuukkaq” ;)
Greenland ATC, very nice, and nothing wrong with the long way, especially for aviation enthusiasts, either from KEF or CPH. I still recall the scenes in Walter Mitty with Air Greenland’s beautiful red a330!
Epic. Can't wait to read your reports. Hope you and dad do get Emirates First on their a380 for the shower! And, for Greenland, I'd imagine you may take that United 'Newark to Nuuk service,' returning in 2026' (as you reported); however, I'd definitely get travel insurance and build-in a few extra days before and after, as precaution, since this summer, there were a lot of cancellations. Either way, it's about both the journey and the destination. Safe travels!
Good luck Ben! And since your planning to return to cruises in near future, maybe can end up with a subsidiary website such as oneDeckatatime or onePortatatime lol
Cruises - ugh. More like one norovirus at a time.
Ben, since cruising might be in your future, I urge you to try out Hurtigruten. While they now have expeditions all over the world, they got started 130 years ago delivering mail to all the towns and cities from Bergen to Kirkenes, with 18 stops north and 18 south. Get off and explore. Gormet food. Even catch your own king crab for dinner. Check it out.
Next May we will circle Iceland, making several stops...
Ben, since cruising might be in your future, I urge you to try out Hurtigruten. While they now have expeditions all over the world, they got started 130 years ago delivering mail to all the towns and cities from Bergen to Kirkenes, with 18 stops north and 18 south. Get off and explore. Gormet food. Even catch your own king crab for dinner. Check it out.
Next May we will circle Iceland, making several stops to explore the entire island. Only about 200 passengers.
Nothing like going on a cruise with 5,000 of your closest friends.
Looking forward to the reviews! Since you mentioned it, I personally can't recommend the Faroe Islands enough, I've been all over Europe as well and it's without a doubt one of my top 3 places I've visited there. Plus, Atlantic Airways is such a cool little airline and is pretty reliable, but just don't take Icelandair there - it's tempting on the Q400 but it's got to be cancelled or heavily delayed something close to 50% of the time.
Looking forward to it!
Just went to Svalbard recently, I recommend you go there!!
@ Ryan; he was there already. Me too and I agree, it's wonderfull besides having the worlds Northern most hotel on earth.
@ Ryan -- Wonderful place indeed, and as Nelson mentioned, I've already visited. Would like to return at some point, but have other places I'd like to visit first.
Happy for you Ben, and enjoy all the travels!
If you've got an extra seat and are feeling generous, feel free to invite me too :)
Looking forward !!! Love the content!
You're going to be reviewing Delta for Tim?
Hopefully at least one leg on the 763 - unbelievable that the Thompson Vantage seat is still in a US fleet (and also Swiss)
LOL!
You always write interesting piece, irrespective of the subject!
Just keep on doing you!
And thank you for the update!