My travel year isn’t officially over quite yet, but the holidays were a fun time reflect on the craziness so far. I’ve been talking with friends and family about a “rest year” after this year of nonstop traveling is over, and I guess this recommendation isn’t a surprise. I’m pretty torn. On one hand, I know that a year to be grounded and give myself the chance to form some routines will be incredibly healthy, mentally and physically. On the other hand, going from 100mph to 0mph is a daunting idea, and will definitely have its own complex set of challenges. It’s hard to imagine “laying low” during a peak year of one’s life. Either way, the idea is tabled for now because I’m starting four more weeks of traveling around the country with The Moxie Strings. Can’t think about rest quite yet!

With that, here are some fun and unexpected facts from life as a full-time traveler:

• No cleaning.
  But I do tip the housekeeping!

• No house keys.
  (Are metal keys still a thing?)

• Sleep happens almost anywhere.
  Airports, couches, backseats… it’s a useful skill!

• No closet = no shopping.
  Or, very little. Sometimes for therapy’s sake. But one new thing means getting rid of another!

• Mad washer/dryer skills
  The ones in Paris were my biggest challenge!

• SO MANY GERMS.
  Planes, schools, public transit… I take a lot of supplements and prioritize self-care to give myself a fighting chance. More here:  “Say Yes to Self-care”

• No cooking.
  This has been the hardest one, but usually my schedule wouldn’t allow the time anyway. Even if I’m in one spot for a few days and could cook, I eat mostly raw. More here:  “Healthy Travel Meals”

• No maintenance or repairs.
  That’s a call to the front desk.

• My bag is my bedside table.
  Book, water bottle, phone charger, mini oil diffuser…

• Practice rooms everywhere.
  It’s not easy to find non-intrusive places to make louder sounds. Stairwells, closets, conference rooms, park benches … If you leave a door unlocked, you might find a fiddler in it.

• No driving.
  My travel is almost all flights and rideshares, or my band-mates “graciously” drive. (Meaning they don’t let ‘Distracted Di’ drive. I’m a happy passenger. 🙂 )

Keep smiling, drriifters 💙🌏💨