Coleman Concierge

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Coleman Concierge Amazing Adventures for Ordinary People
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We are Ed Coleman and Jenn Coleman, a Gen X couple sharing stories of amazing adventures through activity driven transformational and experiential travel.

Scuba diving has always been a big part of our adventures, and it all started at Sandals Royal Bahamian, where we took o...
21/08/2024

Scuba diving has always been a big part of our adventures, and it all started at Sandals Royal Bahamian, where we took our first breaths underwater and discovered a whole new world beneath the waves. Fast forward to now, and Ed just earned his Master Scuba Diver certification right here where it all began! 🐠

One of the things we absolutely love about staying at a Sandals property is the complimentary all-inclusive diving. It’s such a unique offering that truly sets Sandals apart. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just getting started, the fact that diving is included makes it so easy to explore the stunning underwater landscapes without worrying about extra costs. 🐙

From the thrill of discovering vibrant reefs to the excitement of diving with sharks, every dive here feels like a new adventure, and it’s all part of the experience.🦈

The Bahamas truly hold a special place in our hearts, and coming back to Sandals to achieve this milestone feels like everything has come full circle. Here's to many more dives and memories to come! 🐟🤿

Thank you Samuel Bastian for being a great photography instructor for Ed and allowing us to use and pull stills from your amazing videos❣️

PADI Sandals Royal Bahamian Sandals Resorts Nassau & Paradise Island, The Bahamas

🌴 We spent a glorious week last month working with Sandals Royal Bahamian and we’re still basking in the glow of pure pa...
19/08/2024

🌴 We spent a glorious week last month working with Sandals Royal Bahamian and we’re still basking in the glow of pure paradise❣️

💍Returning to the resort where we got married just over 11 years ago was beyond special, especially after all the upgrades Sandals has made! The location is unbeatable—just 15 minutes from the airport, and you're immediately swept into a world of all-inclusive luxury.

🩵What we loved most💙

✨Barefoot Cay: This private island retreat was our favorite spot to unwind. The beaches were serene, the snorkeling was a blast, and the views were simply stunning.

🍽️ Dining Delights: With 12 dining options, every meal was an adventure. From French cuisine at La Plume to the casual vibes at Aralia House on Barefoot Cay, we never ran out of amazing food to try.

🏖️ Poolside Fun: Whether we were partying at the West Bay pool or relaxing by the quiet East Bay pool, every moment was a perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

🐠All-Inclusive Scuba Diving: We took our first underwater breath at Sandals Royal Bahamian, and on this trip, in a full circle moment, Ed joined the elite 2% of recreational divers and acquired his PADI Master Scuba Diver Certification💥

🚤 Island Adventures: We also took a sunset harbor cruise with Sandals excursion partners Island Routes which was unforgettable! The convenience of booking excursions through Island Routes made exploring Nassau effortless.

For anyone looking for a perfect mix of luxury, convenience, and laid-back island life, Sandals Royal Bahamian is the place to be! We can't wait to return someday soon! 🥂

Sandals Resorts Nassau & Paradise Island, The Bahamas

We’re excited to share our latest article on the top things to do in West Glacier, a small but charming town that serves...
16/08/2024

We’re excited to share our latest article on the top things to do in West Glacier, a small but charming town that serves as the perfect gateway to Glacier National Park—one of our absolute favorite places in the world❣️ If you’re planning a visit, or even just dreaming of one, you’ll want to check out our detailed guide👇
https://www.colemanconcierge.com/things-to-do-in-west-glacier/

From cozy stays at the West Glacier Cabins to epic adventures like biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road or rafting the wild Flathead River, West Glacier has something for everyone‼️

Let’s not forget the local eats—whether it’s a slice of pizza at Glacier National Pizza Company or a classic bison burger at Freda’s, there’s no shortage of ways to refuel after a day of exploring. 🍕🍔🍻

So, whether you’re gearing up for your first trip or you’re a seasoned visitor, take a moment to dive into our guide. West Glacier offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and that unbeatable Montana hospitality. We know you’ll love it as much as we do! 🌲🚴‍♂️🛶

Pursuit Glacier Park Collection Visit Montana

🌄 Ready for a summer escape? Discover the hidden gem of Lookout Mountain in Alabama! 🌟 While most people think of Tennes...
13/08/2024

🌄 Ready for a summer escape? Discover the hidden gem of Lookout Mountain in Alabama! 🌟 While most people think of Tennessee, Alabama actually boasts 50 miles of this stunning mountain range—perfect for beating the southern heat‼️

Check out this guide to planning the perfect summer getaway with nine easy steps. Whether you're renting a cozy cabin (we are looking at you Forever View Cabin 😉), exploring waterfalls, hiking scenic trails, or paddling down creeks, Lookout Mountain has it all❣️

Don't miss out on this adventure—Alabama's Lookout Mountain is calling your name! 🏞️🚗

👇Check out this post for all the deets👇

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/lookout-mountain-alabama

✨️Book this gorgeous cabin for yourself✨️👇

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/688561531430563565?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

🎉Exciting News (in case you don't read comments) 😉🎉

Forever View Cabin is happy to offer all of Coleman's Conierge followers a 10% discount on a 2024 stay at Forever View Cabin. Just DM Forever View Cabin and mention "Coleman Concierge" and they will be happy to apply the discount to the dates of your choice.🎊

Visit North Alabama The City of Fort Payne Sweet Home Alabama Lookout Mountain Alabama

Austin, Texas, is a city bursting with energy and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline ...
11/08/2024

Austin, Texas, is a city bursting with energy and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline ju**ie, or just someone who loves soaking up the sun, Austin has something you will love‼️

Let's dive into some of the best outdoor activities this vibrant city has to offer!

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/outdoor-things-to-do-in-austin/

Visit Austin, Texas North American Travel Journalists Association

It's important to be safe while you travel! We value expert tips from experienced travelers. We can't think of anyone be...
10/08/2024

It's important to be safe while you travel! We value expert tips from experienced travelers. We can't think of anyone better than our friend, long-time travel writer and digital nomad (although now nomad adjacent 😉) Tim Leffel‼️

Check out his useful tips below:

https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2024/08/06/travel-safely/

Allianz Travel Insurance US

A veteran traveler gives tips on how to travel safely around the world, from apps to backups to keeping your valuables safe from pickpockets.

Wondering if you really need flight insurance? After witnessing global IT glitches and unpredictable weather, our advice...
04/08/2024

Wondering if you really need flight insurance? After witnessing global IT glitches and unpredictable weather, our advice is a resounding YES!

Check out this must-read guide for smart travelers, plus get access to a free travel planning app from Allianz Travel Insurance US for your next adventure from our friend Nicky at Little Family Adventure💥 {Ad}

Click to learn more! https://littlefamilyadventure.com/do-i-need-flight-insurance/

Is flight insurance necessary? 🤔✈️ Discover when it's worth it and what it covers for your next adventure. Save money and travel smart with these tips and my recommendation for a free travel planning app

🚴‍♂️ Ready for a unique adventure in Hattiesburg, Mississippi? 🌿 Discover what riding the Farm to Fork is really like! T...
30/07/2024

🚴‍♂️ Ready for a unique adventure in Hattiesburg, Mississippi? 🌿

Discover what riding the Farm to Fork is really like! This annual spring event, hosted by Extra Table, offers cyclists and runners a range of racecourses, from a scenic 34-mile bike ride to a challenging 62-mile metric century. Runners can choose from a 5K, 10K, or half marathon. New in 2024 is a thrilling criterium loop through historic downtown Hattiesburg!

But it's not just about the race—it's about giving back. Proceeds help feed food-insecure Mississippians, making every pedal and stride count. Participants also get to enjoy Hattiesburg's culinary delights and a fantastic after-party at The Barn at Bridlewood. 🍽️

While you're in town, take time to explore the 44-mile Longleaf Trace Trail, a Rails-to-Trails Hall of Fame winner. Enjoy its shaded paths and well-maintained pavement, perfect for a leisurely ride or run. And don't miss downtown Hattiesburg, with its vibrant murals, eclectic shops, craft beer, and live music.

Whether you're riding or running, the Farm to Fork event is an unforgettable experience that combines fitness, fun, and philanthropy. Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of scenic routes, delicious food, and community spirit in 2025! 🌟

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/hattiesburg-farm-to-fork/

Visit Hattiesburg Mississippi Tour Guide Extra Table

Dreaming of a luxurious escape to Nassau, Bahamas? 🌴 Check out this guide to the island's top resorts!https://www.colema...
29/07/2024

Dreaming of a luxurious escape to Nassau, Bahamas? 🌴 Check out this guide to the island's top resorts!

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/nassau-bahamas-resorts/

Whether you crave an all-inclusive, adult-only paradise like Sandals Royal Bahamian, the epicurean delights and water parks of Atlantis, or the timeless glamour of Goldwyn Resort, Nassau has something for everyone. Dive into the seclusion of The Ocean Club, enjoy the vibrant downtown from the British Colonial, or immerse in island life at Island House.

Find your perfect tropical getaway and prepare for an unforgettable adventure! 🌞✨

Travel Bahamas Sandals Resorts

We visited Pulaski, TN, this weekend, on the day of political violence in the U.S. with former President Trump's shootin...
16/07/2024

We visited Pulaski, TN, this weekend, on the day of political violence in the U.S. with former President Trump's shooting.

We went to interview 96-year-old Vivian Sims, an inspiring and dedicated educator who spearheaded and funded the Resurrection of Valor monument honoring and highlighting the untold stories of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) from Giles County. One of the interesting things that makes this story more poignant and heartwarming is the fact that Pulaski Tennessee is the birthplace of the K*K.

The Resurrection of Valor Statue can be found in Cave Springs Park in Pulaski, Tennessee. It portrays a USCT soldier reaching down to a young boy with the inscription --"You are the descendant of brave warriors who fought and died for your freedom. God created you free and equal to all Americans. Take pride in yourself and your heritage. Always do your best, work hard to succeed, and make this world a better place to live and love one another."

We enjoyed local spots like Soda Pop Junction and Big Machine Brewery & Distillery and met Colonel Littleton Ltd., Inc. (a purveyor of fine leather goods, ironically with former President Trump as one of his customers). Col. Littleton lives by the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." His belief in mutual respect, despite political differences, was refreshing.

We checked out 1st American Filling Station , a classic car-themed ice cream and snack shop built on owner Jeff Monchilov's dream to live in a car dealership. We even toured Monchilov's dream home/dealership home next door, which was amazing, but please note it's a private home and not a tourist attraction.

Afterward, we headed downtown to see the courthouse square. Sam Davis' statue was still standing in front of the courthouse. A few buildings down was the plaque for the first meeting place of the K*K, but it was turned backward as an overt protest to the Klan's racist and violent beliefs.

We ended the day with dinner at Kitchen 218, contemplating the legacy of figures like Sam Davis, the message of hope from Resurrection of Valor, and the future of the K*K plaque.
Southern heritage is complex, blending courage with darker histories. The USCT's bravery should inspire us all to "build up" rather than tear down and remind us to promote unity and reject divisive rhetoric.

Experience Tennessee Visit Pulaski

Are you ready for the world's worst-kept secret? As travel writers, we spend a lot of time traveling‼️🤪Travel apps are t...
15/07/2024

Are you ready for the world's worst-kept secret? As travel writers, we spend a lot of time traveling‼️🤪

Travel apps are the only way we can keep some semblance of sanity in our crazy, hectic lives, so we thought we'd take a moment and share our favorite travel apps with you❣️

Thank you to the folks at Allianz Travel Insurance US for sponsoring this post!



I'm super excited for and proud of Ed, who just joined the elite 2% of recreational divers and acquired his PADI Master ...
10/07/2024

I'm super excited for and proud of Ed, who just joined the elite 2% of recreational divers and acquired his PADI Master Scuba Diver Certification 🎉

We also have some exciting news for scuba enthusiasts! 🌊

PADI® has launched the Master Scuba Diver Challenge, offering a chance to win a dream dive trip to the Maldives🇲🇻. This challenge encourages divers to aim for the elite PADI Master Scuba Diver rating™, achieved by less than 2% of divers‼️

Until December 31, 2024, participants can earn this rating and enter the giveaway. To qualify, complete the Advanced Open Water Diver course, five Specialty courses, the Rescue Diver course, and log 50 dives.

The grand prize winner will receive roundtrip airfare for two to Male, Maldives, and six nights' full-board accommodation with two dives per day at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa❣️ Two additional winners will receive a recreational PADI eLearning course of their choice.

To enter, sign up at padi.com and answer, "Why do you want to be a PADI Master Scuba Diver?" Gain more entries by completing PADI courses.

For more details, visit: https://www.padi.com/education/continue-learning

Dive in and start your journey today! 🐠

📸Thank you Padi for the gorgeous images!📸

PADI

They say Knoxville, Tennessee is a nature-loving-adventure-seeking-artsy-kinda town. Sounds like our kind of place. You ...
27/06/2024

They say Knoxville, Tennessee is a nature-loving-adventure-seeking-artsy-kinda town. Sounds like our kind of place. You know what? They're right! Since it's only about four hours from Huntsville, the real questions are what took us so long to visit and when are we coming back?!

We loved how compact the city was, with a walkable downtown, the World Fair Park, and the UT campus stacked together like a yummy urban sandwich.

Just south of town is the Tennessee River and then the urban wilderness of South Knoxville with five parks, 60 miles of trails, and a 600-acre wildlife area. We paddled the river, peddled the river trail, mountain biked the parks, hiked along old quarries, and even did a nighttime adventure course in the treetops under twinkling lights.

In between we found live music, romantic hotels, delicious food, colorful galleries, public art, and friendly people.

Whether you're nature loving, adventure seeking, or just a little artsy, this is your kind of town! Since we're all three, we loved it!

It's no wonder it just made CNN Travels top ten for America's Best Towns to Visit❣️

Check out our latest post to get the goods on all the good stuff going on in Knoxville!

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/things-to-do-in-knoxville-tn/

{Ad} Visit Knoxville Tennessee Vacation

Eleven years ago, I married my partner in life and crime, Jenn Coleman, on a beautiful sandy beach in the Bahamas. She m...
20/06/2024

Eleven years ago, I married my partner in life and crime, Jenn Coleman, on a beautiful sandy beach in the Bahamas. She may not be perfect, but she's perfect for me.

She understands the soupy thoughts flowing from my mouth and brain, which are sometimes sharp as tacks and other times slow as molasses. What's more, she loves me equally as much for both.

She completes me and helps me to be a better person. She heals wounds so deep that I accepted the scars as core tenets of my epistemology.

There's nobody like her and no couple like us, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Life's too short for the ordinary, and Jenn is extraordinary in every way.

I don't know what next year will bring, let alone the next decade. But I do know that life with Jenn will never be boring and will be filled with extraordinary adventures.

Thank you for eleven amazing years‼️ I can't wait to head back to Sandals Royal Bahamian where we were married next week❣️ I know we will have another beautiful adventure 🌺

Planning a trip soon? Make sure you're prepared for any unexpected events that might come your way❣️ Check out this arti...
18/06/2024

Planning a trip soon? Make sure you're prepared for any unexpected events that might come your way❣️

Check out this article from our friends at Sand and Snow to learn why travel insurance is essential for every traveler. Don't let unforeseen circumstances ruin your adventure‼️

https://www.sandandorsnow.com/reasons-you-need-travel-insurance

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Here are five reasons why travel insurance is a must-have for any trip and how to find the best one to suit your travel needs.

🌲🗻 As someone who lived in Whitefish, Montana for five years and explored many western national parks, I can confidently...
16/06/2024

🌲🗻 As someone who lived in Whitefish, Montana for five years and explored many western national parks, I can confidently say that Glacier National Park is the most beautiful of them all‼️

Its jagged mountains and epic views are unmatched! If you’re planning a visit, trust me, spring is the best time to go.

Here's why Glacier is truly magical before the 4th of July✨:

🚴 **Biking Going to the Sun Road**: From approximately Memorial Day to Father's Day, this iconic road is closed to cars but open to bikes. Imagine riding through breathtaking scenery with no traffic!

🚣 **Rafting the Flathead River**: The spring snowmelt makes for perfect rafting conditions, with active wildlife adding to the adventure.

🌲 **Hiking Trail of the Cedars**: Enjoy the tranquility of this popular trail without the summer crowds. Springtime offers a peaceful, almost solitary experience.

🏔️ **Glacial Views from Lake McDonald**: Snow-capped peaks create stunning views that are best enjoyed in spring.

🏨 **Plenty of Room at the Inn**: Dine at the Belton Chalet without the summer hassle. Delicious food and gorgeous views, minus the wait.

🏕️ **Glamping with a View**: Stay dry and cozy at Glacier RV Park and Cabins, a perfect spring retreat.

☀️ **Bluebird Days**: Experience all four seasons in a day, with moments of glorious sunshine without the summer crowds.

🌧️ **Rainy Day Activities**: Embrace the rain with rafting, or stay dry with a pie at Glacier National Pizza and a pint at Freda’s.

⛳ **Golfing to the Sun Road**: Enjoy a round of mini golf between rain showers, followed by pizza and a pint if the rain returns.

🚂 **Sleeper to Seattle**: Skip the car and take the train! West Glacier Village offers great food and lodging, making a car-free visit practical and fun.

For more on biking, hiking, and things to do in Glacier in the springtime check out our most recent article‼️👇

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/glacier-national-park-in-spring/

Don’t miss the chance to see Glacier National Park at its springtime best! 🌞✨{hosted}

Pursuit Glacier Park Collection Visit Montana

Feeling bogged down by all the "No's" in your life? No time? No fun? Well, it's time to turn those "No's" into a resound...
05/06/2024

Feeling bogged down by all the "No's" in your life? No time? No fun? Well, it's time to turn those "No's" into a resounding "Yes!" with the ultimate girls' getaway in Buena Park, California – the "Land of Yes!" 💃🥂

Forget what you think you know about Buena Park being just for families because it's a blast for the ladies too! My BFF from high school Debbie Finch Brandt and I went last month, and we had a blast! From poolside pre-gaming to sipping on wickedly good cocktails at The Cauldron , it's not hard to find a crafty craft cocktail!

Our first night, we had after-dinner drinks at the famous Beach Boulevard Club 🎹🍸 We let loose, sang along to dueling pianos, and felt oh-so-sophisticated with our after-dinner martinis 😉.

I was low-key nervous about our visit to Knott's Berry Farm. I am a true roller coaster lover, but due to some current neck issues, my doctors banned me from riding them. I was pleasantly surprised that there was plenty to do, see, and of course, taste (it was Boysenberry Fest, ya'll😋‼️); I almost didn't miss being winged around upside down at a high velocity...almost😉.

Bonus - I got to experience a side of the park I typically overlook due to my coaster-love.🎢

And let's not overlook the culinary delights! From mimosa flights at Broken Yolk Cafe to Korean souffle pancakes at Basilur Tea, sizzling steaks at Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse, to mouthwatering Korean hot pot at dPot, each meal was high-quality and delicious. By the end of our weekend, we were both ready to atone for a nutritional sin or two, but we were so glad we indulged🤤.

We left Buena Park with our fun tank filled but with a few more things on our list still left to do. I guess that is one more reason to say "YES" to a return trip for even more fun💖✨

Who's ready to say "Yes!" to the ultimate girls' getaway? Tag your girls and start planning your adventure today! 🌴👯‍♀️ {Ad}

https://www.colemanconcierge.com/things-to-do-in-buena-park/

🎉

[AD] Wanna getaway but airfare costs are getting you down? We don’t often share travel hacks, but we know that you know ...
28/05/2024

[AD] Wanna getaway but airfare costs are getting you down?

We don’t often share travel hacks, but we know that you know that we have them with how much we travel 😉 One we love to use for flights is Dollar Flight Club‼️

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Check out our most recent post to discover ways to save thousands on your next trip with our expert travel hacks! Learn insider tips for finding unbeatable airfare deals, even from high-cost departure cities. Start saving on your travels today and book that dream getaway without breaking the bank!

Discover the top 12 things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas, a town with a surprisingly nefarious past😉. Once a hotbed of ...
23/05/2024

Discover the top 12 things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas, a town with a surprisingly nefarious past😉. Once a hotbed of organized crime, Hot Springs was cleaned up in 1967 by Governor Winthrop Rockefeller and Judge Henry M. Britt.

Explore Hot Springs attractions with a nod to the town's gangster history, perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike‼️

Arkansas State Tourism Visit Hot Springs Laurie Rowe & Company



https://www.colemanconcierge.com/things-to-do-in-hot-springs-arkansas/

I (Ed) finally made it to Ridgeland, Mississippi, and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations! It's an upscale ...
11/05/2024

I (Ed) finally made it to Ridgeland, Mississippi, and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations! It's an upscale little town outside of Jackson with a huge reservoir (33,000 acres, 105 miles of shoreline) and direct access to the Natchez Trace scenic parkway. All three of these things give the town its charm and character and make me want to return.

We started with lunch at Pelican Cove Grill at Barlette Reservoir, which would have been really nice if it hadn't been raining cats and dogs. Still, you can't go wrong with lots of shrimp and frozen drinks. Afterward, we headed to the nearby Mississippi Arts Center, which was filled with local art I would actually put in my house. I also learned about the Snappy Sync Fireflies, which we were a couple of weeks early for (next year!). Who knew there were synchronized fireflies in Mississippi? There are several James Beard-nominated chefs in town. Local 463 urban kitchen is a restaurant by award-winning chef Derek Emerson, where George had "the best fried chicken of his life!"

The next day was all about biking and eating. I cycled 100 miles in the Natchez Trace Century. There were about 50 miles along the Trace and 20 waterfront on the reservoir. It was beautiful, and luckily, the weather cleared for a great day of riding. I worked up an appetite, so I thoroughly enjoyed my evening at the Santé South Wine & Food Festival. Mississippi isn't wine country, so all the wines were brought in from elsewhere, but the food pairings were local and delicious.

The next morning, we explored the Trace by car, including a stop at a delightfully beautiful cypress swamp. You'd never guess from the parking area, but just a few feet down the trail took you into another world of water and trees. We also stopped at the Reservoir Overlook. It was very near the start / finish line of the race, but this time we could take pictures. We couldn't leave without trying one more restaurant. Anjou Restaurant featured classic French cooking with a southern Mississippi, like Biloxi Omelets with fresh crab and crawfish crepes.

We drove home full, content, and making places to come back for the synchronous fireflies next year. The celebration is next weekend, so if anybody goes, let us know what you think‼️🤔

Explore Ridgeland Visit Mississippi Natchez Trace State Park

I (Ed) just returned from a guys' trip to Hattiesburg, MS, with my training partner, George, to experience the Farm to F...
01/05/2024

I (Ed) just returned from a guys' trip to Hattiesburg, MS, with my training partner, George, to experience the Farm to Fork Ride, Run, and Crit. We didn't do any running, but we did a whole lot of riding, and George even raced in his first crit‼️

We came in Friday for lunch at Southern Prohibition the first craft brewery in Mississippi to can beer. Since our last visit, they've grown up a bit and now have an in-house kitchen instead of food trucks. Then, we headed up to Time Will Tell Escape Games for our first-ever escape room. The setup was 100% original, but you really need that one person in your escape room party who is over the moon with every new clue they found. George and I were a little too strait-laced to optimize the experience, lol.

After the escape room, we headed downtown for the Live At Five live music festival held every Friday night from April through mid-May. After a little live music from Jacob Arnold & The Bird Dogs, George was ready to race.

A crit is a spectator-friendly bicycle race of a specified number of laps on a closed course over public roads closed to normal traffic. Tight cornering is a must, and downtown Hattiesburg provided a beautiful backdrop. George was dropped from the lead pack of five and basically rode solo until he was lapped near the end of the race. He was able to hop on the back of the peloton and hung tough for a fast, final lap.

The Group B Crit was fast, and the lead pack must have been twenty-strong. The precision as they cornered through downtown was as beautiful as it was scary. Group A was wicked fast, with only a select few riders participating at that level. After the race, we stopped at Blue Jazz Cafe, one of the top new restaurants in the Pine Belt, for a little carb-loading before our big ride day.

We stayed at the Longleaf Piney Resort, a fun tiny home campground that's only a five-minute bike ride to the starting line for our Metric Century (62 miles). The course was absolutely beautiful, weaving through Mississippi with just enough hills to keep it interesting. Every 10-20 miles, there was a SAG stop with water and yummy snacks. We followed behind a group of three riders from New Orleans who were happy pulling the whole way at a 17 mph pace. Coming from New Orleans, they thought the hills were bigger than we did with our Huntsville calibration, but they were troopers and pulled anyway.

It was just getting a little hot by the last pit stop, with 10 miles to go. Luckily, Visit Hattiesburg was there with gourmet popsicles. The final 10 miles were beautiful riding on the Longleaf Trace, with plenty of trees for shade and windbreak. It was a wonderful ride; I don't know if I really earned my big forking medal. I did build up an appetite for the after-party at Barn at Bridlewood.

We rested off our food coma on the back porch of our tiny home and talked about nothing for hours. After a while, we felt motivated to go for another ride, and we broke out our mountain bikes for a 15-mile loop through the Tuffburg Trails. They were solidly okay, with a couple of super fun sections, but there were too many loops and roots for my liking. Then again, this was after we had already ridden 60+ miles for the day.

We built up enough of an appetite for dinner at Hattiesburg's newest restaurant - Big Trouble, which served flavor-forward Asian-American food.

After a good night's sleep, we headed back downtown for Southbound Bagel and Coffee to try their famous Hattiesburg Hash. We couldn't leave without one more ride, so we went to the Petal River Bike Trails, which are the highest-ranked trail system in Hattiesburg. They were legit fun, with more trees but fewer roots than Tuffburg. There was also better trail development working over small hills (mounds really) with some banked corners and a few jumps and pump track features.

Visit Hattiesburg

When we got started on this whole crazy content creation/travel blogging thing, one of our first conferences was TBEX (T...
30/04/2024

When we got started on this whole crazy content creation/travel blogging thing, one of our first conferences was TBEX (Travel Blog Exchange) Community.

Now 8 years and 5 TBEX's later, we are honored to be featured in their Creator Spotlight and asked to tell our story❣️

Some of you may know the story of how this all went down, lol, while others may not....it certainly has been a crazy ride, and one we wouldn't trade for the world!

The inspiration, knowledge, contacts and friendships TBEX has brought into our lives has truly added a rich element of passion, connection, and purpose we could not have imagined when we got our first campaign in San Diego covering the Food Truck Round-Up 🤠.

We are so thankful to be a part of this dynamic community of creators 🙏.

Thank you to guest contributor, Ed Coleman, who alongside his partner in life and business Jenn, is 1/2 of the creative force behind the website

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