Dec 2025 – Jan 2026 - Christmas to New Year - Trip

I was supposed to leave Lincoln on the 19th or 20th of Dec; however, I got sick over the weekend and ended up working two more days. By Dec 23, I was still sick but decided to take the road; whatever flu or cold virus I had was going to take its time anyway, and usually staying in bed does not help. This trip is a bit out of my ordinary style; it’s toward the south, which is mainly cities and the coast. My map included states (Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas, and then finally home). It also included 6 national parks, with me realizing that I would not be able to make it to two of them since I did not have any reservations. So another trip to the south is most likely needed to get to these two national parks, which are Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park.

The first destination was Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas:

I drove from Lincoln around 10 am, and my GPS showed 9 hours and 32 minutes, with the hope to arrive by 8 pm.

The drive was really smooth, and the weather turned out to be really nice. By 3:25 p.m., I was in Neosho, Missouri, and the temperature was 72°F. Shortly after Neosho, I entered Arkansas. This region reminded me of Germany; plenty of hills and forests, and there was a part with so many bridges close to Chester, Arkansas, which reminded me of southern Germany, where my mom loves. It was exactly the same landscape and vibe.

As I started driving through rural areas of Arkansas, the most notable thing was the religious signs. They were all over the road, with so much creativity and different kinds of sentences, things like “Mark, the voice of Jesus calls you,” or “Go to church, or the devil will get you,” and even full Bible scriptures were printed and displayed. Learning about that later, apparently, the high density of religious signs, billboards, and monuments in Arkansas is primarily due to its location in the "Bible Belt," a region characterized by high rates of evangelical Protestantism, strong cultural conservative influence, and a history where religion is deeply integrated into daily life.

Another notable thing was the land in Arkansas being rocky, primarily due to the geologic uplift of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, combined with millions of years of erosion that removed topsoil and exposed durable, ancient sedimentary rock layers like limestone, sandstone, and chert. These mountainous regions, known as the U.S. Interior Highlands, are characterized by shallow soils and exposed bedrock rather than deep, flat plains.

After Russellville, Arkansas, the road became extremely remote, hilly, and a lot of switchbacks, but I made it to Hot Springs National Park a little before 8 pm. After looking at different hotel options, I decided to stay at Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, mainly due to the history of this place that I had read about before.

The Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas, has a rich history spanning three buildings: the first wooden hotel (1875), replaced by a grand brick structure (1893), which burned down (1923), leading to the current hotel opening in 1924. It became a landmark for luxury, hosting figures like Al Capone, Babe Ruth, and presidents, while preserving its historic thermal springs heritage within Hot Springs National Park. This place still offers modern luxury while preserving its storied past and is a significant part of the area's famous Bathhouse Row.

At check-in, I received physical door keys instead of electronic key cards. The place was huge. It is very classic and old, but also smelly and dirty. I think it might be time for this place to go down 😊After getting some rest and getting comfortable in my room for a bit, I decided to go for some food at Ohio Club, which is another historic place there.

The Ohio Club in Hot Springs, Arkansas, established in 1905 at 336 Central Avenue, is the state's oldest continuously operating bar and a renowned historic landmark. Originally a bar and casino, it served as a popular hangout for famous gangsters like Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, and Lucky Luciano, as well as celebrities including Babe Ruth. I enjoyed my time there and then went for a couple of miles walk, enjoying Christmas lights and the vibes of this lovely place.

Next day — Dec 24th

I woke around 8 am and was still feeling very sick. After looking up different bathhouse options, I decided to use the one at Arlington, and it was actually great. The place was very old and classic, but the person who helped me was very nice and made my experience very special. There were three stages of the bath: 20 minutes in mineral water in the tub, with the option of drinking it, which was very helpful for my throat, 20 minutes in the wood sauna, and 20 minutes being wrapped in soaked hot towels, which was the best part. This was my first time experiencing something like this. By the time I was done, I could not feel my body.

After taking a few more miles walk in this lovely town/small city, it was time to leave. I had not eaten anything except throat relief medicine.

I had to leave by 10 am since I had an appointment to change my car’s oil in the city of Little Rock. I had already made an appointment, and I am glad they were open since it was Christmas Eve. By 1 p.m., I left Little Rock toward Jackson, Mississippi, and the drive was about 4 hours.

One of the iconic drive scenes, while still in Arkansas, was Lake Chicot.

Lake Chicot is the largest oxbow lake in North America and the largest natural lake in Arkansas. Located in Chicot County near Lake Village, this 5,300-acre body of water was formed approximately 600 years ago when the Mississippi River changed its course. An oxbow lake is a crescent-shaped body of water formed when a wide river meander is cut off, typically during flooding.

I arrived in Mississippi around 3:33 pm, and while driving through rural areas, the most noticeable things were farmland such as cotton and soybeans, as well as poverty in small towns, many abandoned buildings, and dying towns. This area of the country felt removed from the modern pace, lacking basic infrastructure like proper road lanes.

I arrived in Jackson, Mississippi, at Days Inn by Wyndham Jackson Downtown around 6 pm.

The hotel was nice; however, I did not like the smell of the air fresheners. After settling in, I needed food and decided to go to Johnny T's Bistro & Blues. While driving through town, I was mind-blown by the level of neglected infrastructure. This was the first time in the U.S. I had seen something like that.

After I arrived at the restaurant, security would not let me take my hat with me 😊 But the restaurant was nice, and I am glad it was open since it was Christmas Eve; however, the food was very pricey. While eating, I got curious and searched about the city. Apparently, Jackson, Mississippi, has consistently ranked among the cities with the highest homicide rate per capita in the United States in recent years. Although the city has seen a downward trend since its peak in 2021, its violent crime levels remain very high relative to its population. Good to know 😊

I left the restaurant, and while driving back to my hotel, which was only about 5 minutes — I saw at least 3 stray dogs wandering around.

Johnny T's Bistro & Blues Bar

Next day — Dec 25th, 2025

I checked out and headed to the Capitol building, walked around, and took some photos. The town was a ghost town. I understand it was Christmas Day, but I did not see anyone except some people in a nearby church. This place felt abandoned. I have never seen something like that.

I left Jackson at 10:15 am toward New Orleans, Louisiana, with the drive being almost 3 hours.

I arrived at 1 pm and walked in the lovely French Quarter, which is the city’s historic heart, famous for its vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings with cast-iron balconies. Crowd-pleasing Bourbon Street features jazz clubs, Cajun eateries, and loud bars serving strong cocktails. Quieter streets lead to the French Market, with gourmet food and local crafts, and to Jackson Square, where street performers entertain in front of the soaring St. Louis Cathedral. Lunch was at Lebanon Grill.

I was so amazed by the beauty of this place. I did not know such a place existed in the U.S. It reminded me of The Hague in the Netherlands. Live performances, Middle Eastern-type bazaar vibes, so much art, including murals everywhere, and the amazing structure of the old-style buildings with lovely decorations everywhere, and friendly people.

I wanted to visit the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, but it was closed due to Christmas. After walking for almost 5 miles, it was time to drive to Gulf Shores, and the drive was almost 3 hours. I entered Alabama at 4:30 pm and passed through the following towns:

Mobile, Alabama
Loxley
Robertsdale
Summerdale
Foley

I arrived at Best Western on the Beach in Gulf Shores around 6 pm. It was dark and foggy, ocean vibes. After taking a shower and settling in, I went to Ice House Taproom for a drink and some food. Most places were closed due to the holiday, but I was glad this place was open.

Dec 26th, 2025 —Perfect Weather - Summer Vibes 

I woke up before sunrise. The balcony of my hotel room faced the beach, the ocean, and the sunrise. I set my phone to take a time-lapse of the sunrise and enjoyed the amazing breeze. Later, went for a walk for a few miles across the beach. This part of the country is exceptionally beautiful. I did not want to leave, but I had to.

I checked out from the hotel around 10 am, went for breakfast at a nearby Waffle House, and then it was time to drive to Fort Morgan, which is why I came here. It was to visit Fort Morgan based on my map plan.

I enjoyed the 30-minute drive across the coast on Fort Morgan Road, seeing all the coastal houses that are built above the ground due to ocean waves and flooding risks.

I arrived at Fort Morgan around 11 am. The park entry was $8. I had marked this place on my map when I was watching a documentary a few years ago.

Fort Morgan State Historic Site in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a 19th-century masonry fort guarding Mobile Bay, famous for its role in the Civil War’s Battle of Mobile Bay, but also active in the Spanish-American War and both World Wars. This National Historic Landmark offers museum exhibits, concrete artillery batteries, tunnels to explore, a gift shop, and pet-friendly beach access, detailing American military history from 1814 to 1945.

I took countless photos and really enjoyed my time here. Absolutely worth visiting this place. I left the park around noon and drove toward Rosemary Beach, across the coast. I had not decided where to stay for the night yet; my goal was to drive east toward Florida.

I arrived at Rosemary Beach around 3 pm and took a walk around. While having a drink at Beachside Burger Company, I was looking for places to stay. Staying at Rosemary Beach was not an option due to its being so expensive.

Apparently, this place is exceptionally expensive due to its prime location on Florida's 30A, severely limited supply of homes, and high-end, pedestrian-friendly, European-inspired design. It is a premier, exclusive, high-income “Hamptons of the South” community where strict architectural and design guidelines limit development. Rosemary Beach is a well-known exclusive vacation spot frequently visited by celebrities, musicians, and wealthy visitors.

I decided to drive to Panama City and found a place that was suitable for my budget, Bikini Beach Resort, in Panama City Beach. After checking in, I went for a walk along the beach and enjoyed the sunset very much, a lifetime experience. As a sunset lover.

For dinner, I went to Runaway Island. They were about to close, but I had some soup, which was very much needed. Before heading to my hotel room, I stopped by Liq Bar for a few drinks and great music.

Next day — Dec 27th, 2025

I woke up with the sunrise again, but it was cloudy today. I walked a few miles along the beach and then drove toward Everglades National Park, 8 hours and 38-minute drive.

Something I have been listening to during my drives on this trip is The Moth. The Moth is a globally renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling. Since its founding in 1997, it has shared over 65,000 true personal stories told live and without notes.

I have listened to countless stories. Some give me chills, some make me cry, some make me happy, and others give me uncomfortable feelings. I felt all sorts of emotions while listening to these stories, and I felt like I knew all these people and connected with them. Very, very powerful stories.

I have listened to The Moth in the past, but nothing like this trip. The Moth is the best thing I have ever listened to thus far in my life.

The drive was through Tallahassee, Florida, Gainesville, Tampa, and St. Petersburg.

By 6:51 pm, I was at RaceTrac in North Fort Myers (16900 N Cleveland Ave, North Fort Myers, FL 33903). I was very tired. I took a long break, had some food and snacks, my first real bites of the day.

I looked up places and decided to stay at Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers. Super nice place, with a very good price. After settling in, I wanted to go out for a drink somewhere I did not have to drive. I looked up places nearby and found “Kava Nirvana Kava Bar.”

Being ignorant, I went there and asked for a beer. The bartender was kind enough to explain to me that this is not an alcohol bar. She explained a lot about kava vs kratom and gave me time to look it up and decide if I wanted to drink it or not.

Finally, I decided to go with a kava drink. It felt like soil in water, at least to me 😊 But I really enjoyed my time at this place, lovely people, great atmosphere, and great music.

The end — next to Everglades National Park.

November 6–9, 2025 | Nebraska, South Dakota

 November 6–9, 2025 | Nebraska, South Dakota

On Thursday, November 6th, I hit the road to North Platte, Nebraska, for a business trip to attend a conference. I spent the day working and later joined a large group for dinner at a Cuban restaurant called El Mojito. It was a lovely night, meeting new people, sharing stories, and learning from their life experiences.

The next day, Friday, November 7th, after wrapping up the conference, I decided to drive toward Chimney Rock, Nebraska, about a two-hour and 33-minute drive. The route took me through Windlass Hill and across the Platte River on US Highway 26. As I approached Bridgeport, the sun was setting, painting the sky with glowing colors as usual.

I arrived at the Chimney Rock trailhead at 4:52 p.m., just after the sun had fully set. It was a beautiful, quiet evening, and I had the place all to myself. Instead of taking the main trail to the rock, I wandered along the Ethel S. Abbott Foundation Trail since it was getting dark. I still got close enough to take a few photos and enjoy the cool night breeze during a peaceful walk.

Chimney Rock, located in western Nebraska, is an iconic geological formation rising over 300 feet above the North Platte River Valley. It served as a crucial landmark for 19th-century pioneers traveling along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. Managed as a National Historic Site by History Nebraska and the National Park Service, it features a visitor center, exhibits on westward expansion, walking trails, and remains a powerful symbol of the American West, recognizable from miles away.

After that, I drove to Scottsbluff for the night and stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Dinner was at Backaracks Steakhouse and Grill. The place was packed, and it took almost an hour and a half for my food to arrive, but I didn’t mind. I enjoyed a few beers, chatted with people at the bar, and watched sports on TV.

The next morning, Saturday, November 8th, the weather was cold, windy, dusty, and cloudy. After grabbing coffee from the breakfast area, I drove toward Alliance, Nebraska, to visit Carhenge: one of the many spots I had marked on my Google Maps. I arrived around 9:30 a.m.; only one other visitor was there, and the gift shop was closed. The wind was intense, blowing dust everywhere, but I still enjoyed learning about the history and effort behind this unique project.

Carhenge is a replica of England’s Stonehenge, located near Alliance in Nebraska’s High Plains. Instead of stones, it’s built from vintage American automobiles. It was created by Jim Reinders, who studied Stonehenge while living in England and carefully replicated its shape, proportions, and size. I was genuinely impressed by this landmark and loved the artistic paintings on the cars; it’s absolutely a must-see if you’re driving nearby.

Next on my itinerary was Toadstool Geological Park, about an hour and a half away. I had originally planned to camp there, but forgot that it was November, weather denial at its finest.

While driving from Carhenge back to the main highway, my GPS routed me onto a dirt road for several miles. It was already dusty, but I sped up and passed a truck, which I’m pretty sure annoyed the driver. For nearly a mile, all I could see behind me was dust. The truck kept honking, and I kept driving; bad decision, but honestly, kind of fun 😊

After passing through Crawford, I turned left toward Toadstool Geological Park and drove another 17 miles on dirt roads. The weather was fascinating, cold, cloudy, and dusty. Driving through the High Plains and the Oglala National Grassland felt unlike any other natural experience I’ve had in Nebraska. This area is truly beautiful.

Oglala National Grassland encompasses approximately 94,500 acres of remote mixed-grass prairie and rugged badlands, characterized by vast open horizons and unique geological formations.

I arrived at the park around 11 a.m., once again completely alone, clearly off-season. The first thing that caught my attention was an exhibit sign that read “Africa in Nebraska.” Learning about the geological history of the Great Plains, going back 35 million years, was absolutely mind-blowing.

I hiked nearly two miles through the badlands, enjoying the eerie silence. Other than the sound of wind, the place was incredibly quiet; a hidden gem with an otherworldly landscape, unusual rock formations, wide-open views, and deep solitude. It felt perfect for hiking, photography, and stargazing, and the remoteness truly made me appreciate the escape and natural beauty it offers.

Around noon, I left the park and drove toward Wind Cave National Park. I stopped in Hot Springs, South Dakota, for food and a drink, and by 1 p.m. I arrived at Wind Cave. Since cave tours were closed due to the government shutdown, I decided to do a few hikes before sunset.

My first hike was the Rankin Ridge Trail, hoping to reach the top tower, but it was closed. Still, I enjoyed the high-point views and took a few 15-minute naps while being the only visitor on the trail. By now, the mountain weather was surprisingly pleasant.

Next, I drove the Wildlife Loop Road and saw countless prairie dogs, pronghorn, and bison. Wind Cave National Park protects one of the largest remaining mixed-grass prairies in the U.S. and is home to wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, pronghorn, elk, deer, coyotes, foxes, badgers, and even black-footed ferrets.

I spent about an hour at the Prairie Dog Town, attempting time-lapse shots. After setting up my camera near one of their burrows, I quickly realized how strong their warning system is; they appeared briefly and disappeared the moment they noticed my phone. Amazing creatures.

After sunset, I exited the park via Lame Johnny Road toward SD-79, heading to Rapid City. I arrived downtown around 6:30 p.m., greeted by Christmas lights everywhere. There was a big music event in town, and most hotels were booked, but I managed to find a room at Elevation Inn & Suites. After checking in, I went to Paddy O’Neill’s Irish Pub & Grill for food and drinks. It was a lovely place, and I enjoyed chatting with a local couple celebrating their daughter’s birthday. Before heading back, I stopped at a pharmacy for sleeping pills; I haven’t been sleeping well lately. Welcome to adulthood.

On Sunday, November 9th, I woke up around 7 a.m. At breakfast, the kind kitchen staff asked everyone where they were visiting from. People had traveled from all over for the country music concert.

I then drove toward Black Elk Peak, formerly known as Harney Peak. At the Gas station, I talked to a local man, and I told him that I was driving to Black Elk Peak; he was almost upset about why I called it Black Peak; he said it is Harney Peak, not Black Peak, and the name was changed due to politics. I had no idea; but as I am writing this blog I googled it and found this “Harney Peak was renamed Black Elk Peak in 2016 by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names (USBGN) to honor Lakota spiritual leader Black Elk and remove the offensive name of General William S. Harney, who led a massacre of Native Americans, including women and children, in 1855. The change recognized the mountain as a sacred site for Native Americans, who found Harney's legacy deeply derogatory, aligning with the USBGN's mandate to avoid offensive names, despite some initial state-level opposition.”

I was nervous about the weather, but it turned into a perfect morning. I had wanted to hike Black Elk Peak since 2018, and this felt like the right day. At 7,242 feet, it’s the highest point in South Dakota. I started the hike from Sylvan Lake at 9:15 a.m. About a mile in, I spotted a mountain goat climbing granite cliffs; an incredible sight that I chose to simply enjoy in the moment and did not take any photos.

I reached the summit around 10:30 a.m. Everything was cold, icy, and white: trees, rocks, even the prayer flags. A sea of clouds blanketed the forest below, while blue skies stretched endlessly above. I felt incredibly lucky to exist at that moment. I spent about 30 minutes near the lookout, snacking, resting, and chatting with fellow hikers. I returned to the parking lot by 12:30 p.m. after nearly eight miles of hiking.

Before heading home, I drove the Needles Highway and through the Needles Eye Tunnel, surprisingly still open for the season. The drive was stunning, winding through towering granite spires and breathtaking Black Hills scenery.

The drive back to Lincoln, Nebraska, took about eight hours and twenty minutes. After entering Nebraska, I followed Highway 385 to Alliance, then Highway 2 east through the Sandhills and the Nebraska National Forest. The BNSF railroad ran alongside the road all the way to Grand Island. I passed through countless towns, Hemingford, Hyannis, Mullen, Broken Bow, Ravenna, Cairo, and many more.

This drive completely changed my perspective on Nebraska. The Sandhills, Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge area, and the vast openness were stunning. With almost no cars on the road, I drove as the sun folded into the horizon, listening to Turkish music and capturing videos of the glowing sunset. I arrived home around 9 p.m., tired, grateful, and full of memories.