Get away while you can, and get the most out of it
By Steven V. Dubin

Ahhhhh, just got back from a getaway trip to the Cape. Not far from my Plymouth home, but a world away.
Just crossing the Sagamore Bridge seemed like ascending into a quieter, wilder universe. The sweeping drive along Route 6A allowed me to exhale. I even put down my cellphone and allowed the panorama to wash over me.
Why don’t we do this more often? Could be day trip. Better yet, a long weekend.
If we don’t do it now, then when?
Here are some thoughts on the art of the weekend getaway – a delightful chance to swap the daily newspaper for a map (remember those?), the recliner for a cozy inn, and the humdrum for a hum of adventure. Here are some whimsical tips for seniors plotting their next two-day escape:
Pack like a mischievous magician. Slip in the essentials, of course – but tuck in one or two surprises. A favorite snack, a jaunty scarf, or even that “just in case” deck of cards. Half the fun of traveling is pulling unexpected delights from your bag.
Take the scenic route. Highways get you there faster, but country roads give you stories. Leave time for detours – whether it’s a roadside farm stand, a quirky antique shop, or a diner boasting the world’s best pie. (Spoiler: They all do, but it’s worth testing the claim.)
Choose charm over chain. Instead of a predictable hotel, pick a B&B with creaky floorboards and a host who insists you try their “secret recipe” pancakes. Every innkeeper has a tale, and sometimes the stories are the best souvenir.
Curate a “getaway soundtrack.” Trade your usual talk radio for a playlist of old favorites, road-trip classics, or even a mystery audiobook. Suddenly, the ride itself becomes part of the adventure. Or, get really crazy and actually talk to each other.
Adopt the two-ice-cream rule. Declare that any trip under 72 hours requires at least two ice cream stops – one for nostalgia, one for experimentation. (Ginger? Cape Cod Mud? Why not!)
Plan just enough – but not too much. Yes, make dinner reservations, but also leave wiggle room. Some of the best adventures happen when you wander into the town square and follow the sound of fiddles or laughter.
Collect odd souvenirs. Forget postcards – bring back something silly: A feather from a trail walk, a pebble shaped like a heart, or the menu from that café where you lingered too long over coffee. Given that we live in 900 square feet, I often bring home photos to add to my rotating photo frame.
End with a toast. On the last evening, raise a glass (sparkling water, wine, or root beer float – it all counts) and toast the fact that you’re still adventurers at heart.

Drop me an email and let me know your favorite getaway havens and traditions. Perhaps we can share the insider delights. Please email me at SDubin@PRWorkZone.com.

Steven V. Dubin is the founder of PR Works, a lightly used public relations firm based in Plymouth which helps small to mid-sized nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies navigate the overwhelming options of advertising. Steve lives in Plymouth with his wife, Wendy. He is a contributing author to “Get Slightly Famous” and “Tricks of the Trade,” the complete guide to succeeding in the advice business. He recently authored “PR 101,” an E-book.