Welcome
Greetings from England, where I´m taking 17 peaceful (and desperately needed) days to rest and pet-sit two cheeky kitties before immigrating to France. It´s been a wild four months of traveling, staying in 16 locations, “unplugging” from the US and Portugal. I successfully navigated piles of paperwork and secured a one-year French visa, moved the remainder of my belongings to Europe, took daily online French lessons and video tutoring three times a week, and checked off more details than I could shake a baguette at. No wonder my first five days in England consisted of sleeping and babbling to myself like an infant. A special shout-out to my chiropractor in Portugal, who broke a sweat getting my spine back into a reasonably straight line. It is safe to say I need a vacation. You know, where you do nothing but sit by the pool with a good book. Maybe January.
As I write, Mogwai the tabby is pawing at my leg, wondering why we´re not on our first nap of the day. I must admit this trip took a little out of me on many levels. I know this will be my last long trip like this summer has been. Two reasons: France’s immigration limits my days out of the country (as they should), and traveling and being homeless long-term while immigrating is a demanding taskmaster. From now on, travel will include focused shorter trips and international travel that includes a helpful tour guide telling me to be in the lobby at 8:00 a.m. I´m also curious about doing some volunteer travel. Any suggestions?
This summer has also reminded me of the extreme changes happening in the travel industry. Some good. Some not so good. In this edition, we highlight some of these changes and offer insights to smooth out the rough edges of travel.
Thank you for hanging in there with me over this summer. I value every reader who comments and encourages. We are on this journey together, and I have felt your support. Next stop - France.
Shucking Travel News
Before your next trip, double—heck, make that triple—check any new border requirements. Electronic systems can create unexpected problems at European borders.
ETIAS — European Travel Information and Authorization System-still delayed with an anticipated rollout later in 2026. Right?!
EES — Entry/Exit System-up and running with inconsistent results.
ETA — Electronic Travel Authorization-for UK travel. Glad I checked.
I recently experienced border chaos firsthand returning to Portugal. Traveling with a U.S. passport and a Portuguese residence card, I couldn´t be processed by the new EES, resulting in denied entry and being directed to the “special line.” There, hundreds of travelers were waiting for assistance, resulting in weeping, gnashing of teeth, bribery, and missed connecting flights. More on that story soon.
Wherever you travel, check the official embassy or consulate website before departure. A few minutes of preparation could save hours at the border.
The Silver Lining
Trade the highway for a train and settle into a comfortable viewing car, where the scenery does the entertaining. Sip something good, relax, and watch the landscape transform into a spectacular palette of autumn colors.
Companies such as Amtrak and Condé Nast Traveler offer travel packages and recommendations to help you maximize your fall rail trip so you can climb aboard, enjoy the ride, and let the scenery come to you!
Juicy Morsels
Celebrities weigh in on jet lag. With two recent international flights, I put their exercise advice to the test—and yes, it helped! I’ll add my own prescription: hydrate, hydrate; choose protein over the in-flight carb deluge; take a long shower. Then (and I think most importantly), sit, breathe, close your eyes, and remind your brain that you’ve actually arrived.
When your mind gets calm and present, your body usually follows. Sort of like sauce following pasta.
Strands
Different time zones, questionable pillows, and schedule overload can quickly turn your dream destination into a blur. Straight from the archives, we offer How To Recharge and Protect Your Travel Energy.
Turn The Page
WTF (What The French) - If you are considering a slow-travel journey or even researching (ahem!) about immigrating, read books about that country's culture and history. Written by an actual person in France, this little gem is worth a read for anyone considering a change of scenery.
You Don´t Belong Here - A powerful, catch-your-breath look at female journalists during the Vietnam War. Be prepared for a range of emotions and education straight from the lives of these courageous women.
Quote
“Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life.” Michael Palin
Thank you for joining the adventure.