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Expert: Jason Curodeau - 8/26/2010


Question
My family and I are planning to travel up to Carmel for a
week-long visit and we are trying to decide which route to
take north.  We'll have two kids in the car, so the shorter
the better.  Mapquest suggests the I-5 to the 46 to the 101
to the 68.  Some have said to take the 101 instead of the 5.  
Suggestions?

Answer
Anne,
If all you are looking to do is reach your Carmel destination as quick as possible and are not interested in any sight seeing or beautiful scenery, do the I-5 route. Unless you are leaving on a mid-week day after 8 a.m. in which case the 101 would be a little less truck infused and offer better cuisine apart from am-pm hot dogs and hamburgers. Personally I am the stop and smell the roses guy and prefer the coastal scenary which is something you may decide to do for the return trip. The coastal drive is much better south bound. You don't have to look across traffic to see the cliffs, bluffs and ocean views.
With kids it sounds like you'd rather be able to snap your fingers and magically appear in Carmel. Again, for me the journey is the reward not the destination. Maybe you should consider flying? This would give you ample time at your destination.
If you truly just want to get the drive "over with" than Interstate 5 is your solid bet.
I hope I have been some help.
Jason Curodeau

California

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Jason Curodeau

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding best routes of travel. Although I cannot predict traffic conditions, I can provide the most scenic and dynamic route for the traveller on a budget and or schedule. I also know the most direct and yet scenic routes.

Experience

I have had the opportunity to travel quite extensively throughout the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, both as a resident and traveler. My search for adventure and new experiences has given me the thirst for the "road less travelled". Because I am not independently wealthy, the road I travel is as an admirer of the journey. As long as I can find a place to sleep for next to nothing, pack some food, and afford the gas I am down the road. If given a description of the prospective travelers needs I can easily provide them with detailed route options independent of their finances and suited to their needs. Most of my travels have been by automobile. I recently purchased a motorcycle and I am taking ten day trip from Joshua Tree to Auburn California and I am taking back roads and state highways the entire way. I will take a day trip around Lake Tahoe, where I lived for two years, and cruise the old highways of the Gold Mining era. I will cut across towards the Pacific and slowly wind my way down the coast taking in every minute smell and experience temperature changes subtly created by the shadow of leaves

Organizations
Some friends and I from the area have started a local music and art "zine" and have experienced some very positive community feedback.

Education/Credentials
I am currently a full-time, thirty-seven year old student and I am preparing to begin a career in primary education. I have chosen this field not only because I feel it will be rewarding but also for the travel time it will allow me. I anticipate frequent world travel in my near future.

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