Google Maps, Waze, whatever your choice of navigation app, always want to route us on what they think will be the fastest way to our destination. Usually, that involves a freeway or a toll road.
When you are in a hurry, that’s fine. I know lots of people who do not like to dawdle. But over the past few years, I have been clicking the tab that reads “avoid highways” and taking less hectic byways.
Some of my routes have been out of caution. I am a Prius driver, and I’ve been tailgated a lot by SUVs and pick ups, even when I am keeping up with traffic. There’s also the intimidation factor posed by 18-wheelers. I’m little, and they’re big.
But mainly, I take alternate routes because I enjoy them. To me, highways are like flying, while non-highway routes are seeing what is on the ground. I’ve probably inherited this from my father, who loved to “go the back way” on our family road trips, in contrast to his airline executive life.
Along with scenery, you find numerous delicious treats, in unexpected places.
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