In 2024, I traveled a lot — but that travel looked very different from prior years. I started the year with a plan: to organize and embark on a 16-city national book tour to celebrate the release of my book, “Mechanic Shop Femme’s Guide to Car Ownership,” all in just 28 days.

This book tour was different for a lot of reasons, but primarily because instead of signing books at libraries or bookstores, I held events in women-, queer- and POC-owned mechanic shops across the United States.

It was a whirlwind. I crisscrossed the country, starting on the West Coast, then heading to the East Coast, and finally finishing the tour at home in the Midwest. Along the way, I visited cities for the first time, returned to old favorites and saw a side of the country I never expected.

Here are my favorite hotels from the tour, a few restaurants that stood out and nearby mechanic shops in case you're ever in the area — or road-tripping and need car help.

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The Inn at Woodstock Hill
Woodstock, Connecticut
In the era of Airbnb and spare-room rentals, you might think the charm of a true bed-and-breakfast has been lost—but the Inn at Woodstock Hill proves otherwise. Located in Woodstock, Connecticut, just outside of Massachusetts, the inn features 21 guest rooms, six of which have four-poster beds, and is set on a sprawling lot with trees and walking paths.

Breakfast is served daily, and the warm, cozy atmosphere makes this the perfect spot for a romantic getaway not far from Boston, Providence, and Hartford. Just make sure to drive or rent a car — rideshare services are rare here.

Mechanic Shop: Santora Automotives, North Oxford, Massachusetts

Palmer House Inn
Falmouth, Massachusetts
I only spent one night at the Palmer House Inn, but I still can’t stop thinking about this charming Victorian-style bed-and-breakfast. Located on Cape Cod, it’s within walking distance of almost everything you’d want to enjoy during a getaway.

The inn features 12 individually decorated rooms in the main house, four rooms in the guest house, and a private two-bedroom cottage. The guest house and cottage are pet-friendly, so you can bring your pup along for a romantic escape or a girls' weekend.

The breakfast here is truly special—the menu changes daily and includes homemade fruit dishes, pastries, and a main dish, all served in the dining room or outdoors.

Mechanic Shop: I........

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