Hey there, fellow wanderer —
Welcome to the very first edition of Miles of Smiles! I’m Deb — writer, explorer, road trip planner, and fan of the forgotten. If you've ever turned down a highway exit just because it “looked interesting,” you’re in the right place.
This newsletter is all about off-the-beaten-path travel destinations. Think dusty diners with the best pie you’ve never heard of, ghost towns with stories to tell, scenic drives that don’t show up on influencer feeds, and parks where you might be the only visitor for miles. And it wouldn’t be complete without throwing in some of the best travel tips/ideas for every type of traveler.
Why I'm Starting This Newsletter
I’ve always believed that the best travel moments happen when you veer off course — when you skip the crowds and find that unexpected view, quirky museum, or tiny town with a big heart. I started Miles of Smiles to share those discoveries — not just where to go, but how it feels to really explore.
I’ll be sharing:
Hidden destination spotlights
Off-grid road trip routes
Quirky stays, eats, and small-town finds
Stories from the road — and maybe a few misadventures
Some great tips for traveling
What You Can Expect
This isn’t a guide to the “Top 10 Must-Sees” or bucket-list attractions. This is for the curious traveler who wants to find the beauty in the forgotten, the fun in the weird, and the freedom in wandering.
If that sounds like you, stick around. There’s so much to explore — and I can’t wait to travel together.
Drop me a comment or reply:
What’s the strangest or most surprising place you’ve ever stumbled into on a trip? I’d love to share your stories in a future post!
Until next time —
Deb