Tag: roadtrips

Having gone to Nice twice in two months, it’s easy two compare the two trips. The second one was obviously better, as we had a lot more time to do what we wanted and not having to go back earlier for a funeral. But the trips also differed in means of transport. The first time we went, we drove, as we thought that would be cheaper (ha!), better for the environment and it would give us more freedom. The second time we knew what a roadtrip would actually cost and we wanted to spend as much time as we could in Nice, so we went by plane instead. Time to compare the two, which one is better?

Driving by car is better for the environment and it gives you a whole lot of freedom to go at your own pace, stop wherever you want and take detours. It does take forever and is in no way cheaper than an airplane, especially if you’re driving through a country that has tollroads. A plane is quick and less expensive, but honestly a bit boring.

It’s about the journey, not the destination

Yeah, cheesy, I know. But it’s true enough for roadtrips. Planes are fine if you wanna get somewhere quick, or if you’re traveling to the other side of the world. But a roadtrip is so much more, see it as a part of your trip, and not only your way of transport. Pack the car with good food, good music and good people (the more the merrier, and the more, the cheaper in comparison to airplanes) and plan your route along the way.

When I first got my driver’s license, I felt so free. I knew I could go anywhere by car and the world opened up for me. I never actually did it, but the possibility was enough for me then. But this year we did it. And the south of France isn’t really that far, but it’s the furthest I ever drove. It was amazing: seeing the landscape and the vegetation change, driving through mountains, see the temperature rising on my dashboard. I was so happy, I cried. I have never felt more free in my life.

We didn’t have that much time but I did see so many stops where I would have loved to get out of the car, take pictures, walk around, smell the lavender. We drove through so many amazing cities, saw flower fields and castles at the side of the road. It was amazing.