After 5,559 miles traveled through 5 timezones – 3,001 of which we drove and 2,558 of which were flown over the Pacific – we are finally putting our travels to rest.

We explored 15 cities in 13 states, stopping at 9 hotels with 7 pieces of luggage, only encountering 1 police stop and thankfully 0 car troubles.

My favorite stop:  The stretch from Arizona to New Mexico. Everything from the Grand Canyon, small town of Flagstaff to the rich culture and history of New Mexico just had me hooked. 

His favorite stop: Vegas – for its food, eccentricity, luxury and surprising diversity of things to do besides party.

Best Shopping: New Mexico. The art, jewelry and goods found in cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe are truly unique. 

My favorite food: Soul food from Nexus Brewery in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

His favorite food: Farm-to-table from The Silver Dollar in Louisville, Kentucky.

Best Lodging: Candlewood Suites! These rooms have kitchenettes, a large wrap-around desk for extra space, modern decor, and dogs are allowed. The pet fee is manageable, too,  at $10-$15 per night. I also appreciated that their housekeeping does not bother you daily – which I personally find unnecessary. They have a policy of “minimal intrusions, maximum clean.”

Would we do it again yes? But, we’re so not traveling anywhere for a while.