If you are a follower of The World by Road or have checked the website lately, maybe you’ve noticed our pleas for help and our upcoming fundraiser in order to raise money to finish the expedition. In reality, to make it back to Denver, we had to rely upon a few special places and people to help us get back to home base. What’s great is that these people and establishments are not only providing us with a much needed place to stay, but also that they are genuinely interested in our project and are happy to do their part to help us.
One of our stops was in Austin, Texas, where our host was the HI Austin, a member of the worldwide organization Hostelling International. Their mission is “to help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of the world and its people through hostelling.†Many backpackers choose to stay in hostels while visiting countries other than their own, and there are many types of hostels out there. A Hostelling International hostel offers a standard of security and cleanliness that can offer a long term traveler a piece of mind. The hostel was fully booked during our stay, but they made up a special room for the 6 of us in their TV room, where Nels and I took advantage of the selection of movies. While in Austin we made sure to get out and see the town a bit even though we only had a short time. Although the cold snap kept me from getting to Barton Springs, a local swimming hole with a reputation for a constant chilly temperature. We also were lucky to be taken to an authentic Texas style BBQ, from where we all left extremely full of a variety of meats. A special thanks to Ali and HI Austin for helping out some weary travelers.
Our other planned stop was Santa Fe, New Mexico where we were hosted by the Inn on the Alameda. Upon our arrival Bouey, Steel, Nels, and I decided to head to the bar for the Inn’s daily wine and cheese reception. While enjoying our drinks and snacks, the bartender, Charlie, took great interest in our expedition and soon was handing out our flyers to all of the guests and telling all about our story. Our rooms were luxurious and cozy and the outdoor spa was a great way to warm up on a cold night. Late in the afternoon we found out that we had to be back in Denver for some media coverage the next day, so unfortunately we had to cut our visit to the Inn short. A large delicious breakfast the next morning provided the fuel necessary for the long drive ahead. A special thanks to Judith and the Inn on the Alameda for providing such a welcome reception, great amenities, and very comfortable beds. We wish we could have stayed longer. Santa Fe is definitely a place I want to return soon.
The front entrance of HI Austin and Lady Bird Lake in the back.
Reception desk and the common area at the hostel.
Outside and the lounge at the Inn on the Alameda.
Delicious spread at the afternoon wine & cheese reception and a piece of art in the courtyard.
Our comfortable beds before the drive home.
