Trailer Park

Trailer Park A Go-Go

Buying a new home? Make sure you kick the tires first. Michael Lane, who with James Crotty has edited the nomadic RV journal Monk For nearly a decade, here shares some tips for first-time renters or buyers.

Kitchen: Cabinets should open upward or have solid latches to prevent them from popping open in transit. Also, make sure the fridge switches from battery to propane power. And get a big one, you'll want the space.

Driver's seat: You'll spend a lot of time here. Make sure you have comfortable arm rests and good back support.

Engine: Size counts. A 454 engine is big and it's worth it. If you get a small engine, you will really suffer going up hills. As for the other kind of power, the standard 12-volt deep-cycle battery should be powerful enough to keep your electrical system running for about a day without being recharged.

Bathroom: You will want space to move around without bumping your head, so save by skipping the bathtub – a shower is all you need. RV toilets have two pedals, one to fill the bowl, and one to flush it into a storage tank.

Bedroom: A lot or RVs come set up with a vanity sink in the bed room. It is a waste of space. And forget about those sliding closet doors. They buckle and become useless as the frame settles.

Tanks: Big water tanks, at last 100 gallons. You can go through 100 gallons in less than two days. Likewise make sure that your “gray water” tank (for water that had already been used) has at least a 50-gallon capacity.

Spare tire: The spare should be easily accessible. Some are mounted in such a way that it takes three people to get at them. You won't always be able to get roadside assistance.

Sewage: Make sure that the sewage hose is at least 10 feet long or that the dealer includes an extension so that it will reach out-of-the-way dump sites.

New York City. 7 Avenue. Photo by Elena.

Where to go get doing

Resources for joining a new American subculture

Monk – Lifetime after lifetime subscription: Billed as the World's Only Mobile Magazine, Monk is the witty, occasional publication of two RV nomads, James Crotty and Michael Lane. Each issue (there are about four per year) tells of their latest adventures on the road with their cat, the Dolly Lama (not to be confused with the Tibetan Dalai).

Good Sam Club: Sort of an American Automobile Association for RV owners. Good SAM offers campground discounts, mail forwarding service, insurance, road assistance, and  tour packages to nearly two million members.

Recreational Vehicle Industry Association: The RVIA can put you in contact with a local RV dealer and will also send you a free 16-page guide for first-time campers.

Low Hotel Rates

How to Get Low Hotel Rates

You don't have to pay top dollar to get top-notch service

Request all the basic discounts: Discounts are often available to senior citizens, members of automobile associations, and military personnel. But those who are eligible have to ask for them. 

Ask for a still lower rate: Hotels are often willing to reduce rates if doing so will fill empty rooms. Money magazine reports that budget motels have an average occupancy rate of 62 percent. That's a lot of rooms in need of filling: don't be afraid to ask the check-in manager for a still lower rate.

Call a reservation service. By purchasing rooms in bulk at reduced prices, these services pass savings on to you – usually 25 percent to 50 percent off the regular rates on mid-priced and luxury rooms.

The Cheapest Places to Sleep

Here's what you'll find inside America's budget motels

They all look the same when you're cruising the Interstate at 65, but there is a world of difference between budget motel chains. True, travelers don't go to them for the amenities, but some budget chains are a lot more budget-oriented than others, and some go out of their way to buck the budget stereotypes. La Quinta Inn chains, for example, offer free coffee and Danish to guests – no great leap for mankind, but a little nicety almost unheard of at budget motels just a few short years ago. Besides, senior citizens might want to choose the motels which don't offer senior discounts, while CNN fanatics can learn where to turn in for their for their daily fix. You can judge motel chains (Comfort Inn, Hampton II, La Quinta Inns, Super 8, Red Roof Ins, Travelodge-Thriftlodge, etc.) according to comfort, convenience, cleanliness, price and safety.

Hotel in Jamaica. Photo by Elena.

The New Kings of the Road

Why not take a home with you on your next vacation?

To all those hip folks who wouldn't be caught dead in an RV: think again. Kids love 'em. A 2015 poll by the University of Michigan found the 36 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds plan to purchase a recreational vehicle in the near future, a higher proportion than any other age group. Of course, older folks still love'em too – people 55 and older represent more than half of all RV owners. Still, sales of the kind of folding camping trailers that are popular with entry-level buyers increased by 46 percent in 2018 – record growth in an industry that generates $15 billion in annual retail sales.

Why? Those who had already purchased RVs cited comfort (easy-swivel captain's seats!), convenience (no lost luggage!), and a “good value” (home cooking every night!), as their primary motivations. And of course, there is the simple thrill of trekking across the nation as our pioneer ancestors did: with a kitchen in the back seat and a bed in the trunk.

Driving an RV may be convenient – if you're up to the task of parallel parking – but buying one can be daunting task. RVs cost anywhere from $50,000 for a basic trail to upward of half a million dollars for those deluxe custom buses favored by rodeo stars and country western singers.

Options vary widely, from handy dashboard cup holders to deluxe built-in home entertainment centers. The only thing that doesn't vary much, in fact, is the mileage, which is universally bad – about 8 to 10 miles per gallon at best.

With so many choices available, you may want to rent an RV first to see what kind of amenities you will require on the road, and, more important, to see if gypsy life is really all that you and your traveling companions had dreamed.

Getting There on the Cheap

Getting There on the Cheap

There are bargains galore for seniors, students, and small children

Face it, working world, airlines might drop their rates or offer special packages from time to time, but they won't bend over backwards to court you. The story is different, however, for senior citizens, students, and small children. Travel industry executives know that many working men and women have to fly on business, but younger and older travelers still need to be wooed. Accordingly, there are several excellent discounts available for young and not-so-young travelers. Outlined below are some the best.

Airline Deals and Discounts

Seniors: Most North American airlines offer coupon books good for travel within the United States and Canada. The books come in sets of four and eight, with each coupon redeemable for a single, one-way flight. They cost much and those who fly only only short distances might not want to buy these coupons, but they do offer considerable savings on expensive and coast-to-coast routes. Since the prices and services are similar on each airline, choose the one that serves cities you expect to visit most.

Students: Several airlines have their own discount “clubs” for students. American Airlines offers students deals through the National Collegiate Travel Club. For a modest sum a year, students receive three certificates valid for travel within the continental United States. One certificate can only be used by the student to either depart from or arrive at an airport near the student's college. The other two certificates can be used by the student or his or her parents, but only for flights between school and home. Of course, there are several restrictions with this plan.

USAir offers low rates to students traveling distances under 750 miles to entice them to fly rather than drive.

Full-time students who carry American Express cards can enroll free in the company's Student Privileges program. It offers discount certificates on Continental Airlines, some of which can be used on international flights or by companions.

Children: Infants under the age of 2 travel free on almost all domestic airlines. They are expected to travel on a parent's or guardian's lap, and can only be placed in a seat if one is available. With USAir, children between 2 and 11 can use senior coupons when they are accompanied by seniors also using coupons.

New York, New York. Photo by Elena.

 Train Deals and Discounts

Seniors: Amtrak passengers 62 and older, can get coach tickets 15 percent off, but only between Monday and Thursday. The discount does not apply to Auto-train, Metroliner, sleeper car, Club service or Custom Class passengers.

Students: Students 12 to 25 can get big discounts on rail and ferry tickets in Europe and beyond by showing an International Student ID Card. The cards are available for small prices from the International Education Exchange. They offer no savings in the United States, though.

Children: Amtrak passengers 2 and under can ride on a parent's lap for free, while children 2 to 15 ride at half-price with an adult or other child who is paying regular, adult ticket prices.

Overnighting Deals and Discounts

Seniors: Many hotels already offer senior discounts to guests either 60 or 65 and older, but some increase their discounts for members of the American Association of Retired Persons. The AARP admits anyone over 50, so membership means senior rates for some not-so-senior travelers. AARP membership also brings discounts on rental cars, sightseeing tours, and cruises. The annual membership fee exists.

Other seniors' clubs, such as the National Alliance of Senior Citizens and the Silver Keys, offer discounts as well.

Several hotel chains have created their own seniors' clubs. They sometimes offer big savings, but deals vary greatly, according to a recent study by the Consumer Reports Travel Letter. Hilton's Senior Honors offers up to 50 percent off nightly rates, but charges money for one year and a reasonable sum each year thereafter. Red Roof's RedicCard +60 program entitles guests to a 10 percent discount over its regular senior discount for a lifetime-membership fee. Several other clubs, including Best Inns' Senior First Club and Hampton Inn's Lifestly 50 Club, offer free membership but with reduced savings.

Seniors who want to combine travel with classroom learning can vacation for very little through the Elderhostel program. Participants, who must be at least 60, spend one to four weeks on a college campus, studying a variety of subjects, eating in dining halls, and sleeping in student  housing. Room and board can be at reasonable price a week in the Unitsed States and Canada.

National Park enthusiasts 62 or older can pay a little sum for a lifetime Golden Age Pass, good at all U.S. National parks for 50 percent off all recreation fees – a good deal for seniors who enjoy camping but not the standard daily rates.

Students:Many hotels are increasing the maximum ages for free stays with accompanying parents from 12 to 18. Holiday Inn Express even lets 19-year-olds in free.

For students seeking shelter sans parents, American Youth Hostels (AYH) provide an inexpensive bed and the opportunity to meet other travelers. A AYH membership is not required, but it does reduce the cost for a bed for the night by a few dollars. The majority of hostel guests are between 18 and 30, but there is no age requirement. Children under 12 receive reduced rates at many youth hostels, but they must be accompanied by a parent of the same sex.

Children: Many hotels permit children to stay free when their parents or guardians pay regular rates. Children under 16 are admitted free to all U.S. National parks.

Take a Train

Take the A-Train … Or Take the B-Train If You Like

Countries all over the world offer passes that guarantee unlimited, flexible travel at a set price for a specified period, and it often only take one or two trips for you come out ahead by buying one. Below are some of the options.

Australia: Travel between most tourist sites in the vast nation requires an overnight trip, making air travel a practical option in many cases, but the view of the outback is better from ground level. Prince Range: The AustrailPass, with unlimited travel on all ROA railways, ranges from $500 for 14 days in economy class to more than $1500 for 30 days in first class. Austrail flexi-passes run from 8 days of travel in 60 days (economy) to 15 days of travel in 60 days (first class). Some routes are restricted. The Kangaroo Road “n” Rail Pass includes limited travel on Greyhound Pioneer buses. All passes must be bought outside Australia. Train tip: wildflower fans must see the spectacular blooms along the Indian-Pacific line from Sydney to Perth in September and October.

Canada: Train travel in the sprawling nation isn't a particularly efficient means of transport, but the Canadian line through the Rockies is popular among rail buffs for its spectacular views. The Canrail Pass allows unlimited coast-to-coast economy-class travel on VIARail lines for 12 days within a 30-day period. Price range: During the low season (January 6 – May 31 and October 1 – December 14) passes are around $400 for adults and about $300 for those under 25 or over 60. During the high season, they are at least $700 and $500. Canrail passes are not honored December 15 to January 5. Purchase passes from VIARail, Amtrack, or a travel agent. Train tips: In 1992, Canada's national passenger railway launched a restored, stainless steel fleet of passenger cars built in the 50s. The cars retain their art deco sleekness, but are updates with showers and advanced suspension systems.

University Tour. Photo by Elena.

Europe: A way of life for the teeming masses of backpacktoting college grads that storm Europe every summer, the Eurail pass is valid in many countries in Continental Europe (without any notable exceptions). The cheaper Europass covers three to five of the following nations: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. And passes must be purchased in the United States and are good for 6 months from the time of purchase. Any travel agent can order passes.

Price Range: Eirailpass runs for 5 days of travel in 60 days to 90 days of unlimited travel. Youth passes are available for those under 26. Europass prices range from $400 for 5 days of travel to 60 days in three countries to $900 for 15 days of travel in 60 days in five countries. Train tip : if you're in a hurry, try the French TGV. It set the world record for passenger rail speed at 320 mph in 1999 and averages 130 mph on regular passenger routes.

India: Rail travel is a popular but slow alternative to India's sometimes harrowing airline system. Indrail passes are available in three classes : air-conditioned first class(sometimes includes a sleeper), regular first class or air-conditioned chair car (different cars, same pass), and second class (which tends to be very crowded). The definition of “first class” varies from line to line. Tickets must be purchased outside of India. From one day pass (second class) to up to 90-day unlimited travel pass (air-conditioned first class). Train tip: Many lines here rely on ancient telexes to confirm reservations; travelers often are stranded when the telex fails.

Japan: If you intend to do even minimal travel in Japan, a train pass is a great investment. An ordinary 7-day pass costs less than a round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Osaka, and the extensive Japan Raiway (JR) system rivals that of Continental Europe for speed and convenience. JR passes come in two flavors: green (first class) and ordinary (economy) . Both include travel on most Shinkansen (bullet trains), some buses, and the ferry between Honshu and Mijajuma. From $400 for a 7-day ordinary pass to $1200 for a 21-day green pass. Children 6 to 11 are half-price. Passes must be purchased outside Japan. Train trip: A 7-day train pass costs about as much as a cab from Narita airport to downtown Tokyo. Don't take a cab.

United Kingdom: Britain is not included in Eurail packages, but it does offer several rail passes of its own. Among them are the Britpass, the BritGermany Pass, and the BritFrance Pass. All include travel in Wales and Scotland, and some include ferry travel. All passes must be purchases in the United States and are good for six months from the time of purchase. A travel agent can provide details and order passes. Britpasses range from 10 days of travel to 30 days days, economy or unlimited travel (first class). Train tip: The Chunnel beneath the English Channel opened in 1994, allowing direct travel from London to Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam.

U.S.A.: Despite government subsidies, Amtrak has had trouble competing with airlines in most areas except along the Eastern Seaboard and parts of the West Coast, so it has abandoned many less popular lines. Train travel enthusiasts might consider Amtrak's All Aboard America fares, though. They are good for 45 days, but you must choose your itinerary in advance and are allowed only three stopovers. Amtrak divides the nation into three regions: east, west and central.. Tickets range from $300 in one region to $900 (peak) for travel in all three regions. Peak season is from June 17 to August 21. There is a 50 percent discount for children 2 to 15 and a 15 percent discount for seniors over 62. Train tip: Amtrak began the first regularly scheduled transcontinental train service in U.S. History in 1993. The Sunset Limited makes the 3,000-mile journey from Miami to Los Angeles in just 69 hours.

Company Town

Company Town

By Madeline Ashby

Aviation/Metabolist

“So,” Hwa said. “You<ve done some succubus play, right?”.

The aviation was alive with jazz. Violet light streamed across the black-and-white chequered floor. In the centre of the room, the bar rotated slowly. One revolution an hour. Hwa had counted three revolutions. She had lost track of how many bourbons that meant. Or which of the very specialized types she'b en drinking. Probably all of them.

Layne sipped her drink. “Sure, like once or twice. It's super rare, though. Like it's a thing they try once and don't really go back to, unless they some like it. What are you at?”

“Where did you get the suit?” Hwa gestured at herself. “For being invisible.”

“Or, my God. You don't need to be invisible, Hwa. Get over yourself.”

“Not, it's not like that,” Hwa said, for the second time in as many days. “I don't...” I don't want to be invisible, she should have said, but the words were harder to get out than she expected.

“Besides, it's fucking tough to rent that shit,” Layne said. “Like, it's super regulated. Like worse than guns. Which is kind of sad. Background checks and everything. They're woven with smart sensors ; if you rent one, the person you rented it from knows where the suit is every minute.”

“Could you buy one?”

“Yeah, a shitty one. Not the good stuff. The military stuff costs.”

“But if I wanted to buy the military stuff.”

Layne looked at Hwa as though she were extremely stupid. “Then go to the Lynches! They have a whole Security branch, right? Don't you work for them?”

“I'm in another department,” Hwa said. “I file reports to Security, but I'm a...” She struggled to find the right phrase. “Discretionary hire?”

“Well, if anybody has that stuff, it's them. I even heard them joking about it. Or Eileen did. I think she's the one what told me about it.”

A very big city. Photo by Elena.

Hwa said nothing. She'd tried to ping Eileen, just to talk, and had even tried to explain why she<d gone back to working for the Lynches, but nothing came of t. Eileen had written her off. Completely. And Layne knew it. Everyone knew it. And it was awkward and awful as hell.

“What else is going on at work?”

Oh, not much, they just blew up this town so they could build a star in the ruins.

“They're making me go to Homecoming,” Hwa said. “With Joel. They're sponsoring it.”

“Don't look so sad! You can handle it. It's just a dance.”

Layne looked sleepy. It was late. Her flapper costume was fading. She'd rented the look for only a few hours, and now her pearls flickered  in Hwa's specs.

“It's the whole principle of the thing,” Hwa said. “I don't dance. Sunny dances. I don't dance.”  

“Who is Sunny?”

“Never mind.”

“Do you mean your mom? Wasn't you mom a dancer?”

“No. She was in a girl group, and the group danced, in videos. But she wasn't, like, a dancer. She wasn't an artist, or something. She was just following orders..”

Layne brushed her pink hair aside and stared at Hwa hard through the veil of way too many brandy Alexanders. “Go Junghwa.” She pointed. “You hate your mother.”

Hws shrugged. “So? The feeling's mutual.”