Traveling is wonderful. As part of R&R, my husband and I decided to spend a few days exploring Atlanta. We’ve been through the city on numerous occasions, dreaded it for its treacherous traffic on I-75 that slows down our trip home to Iowa. However, after the experience we had, I’ll never see the city the same.
I’ll admit I was skeptical about the trip at first. I’d heard the horror stories of soldiers coming home for their two-week leave and spending thousands of dollars without reason. Going to a big city with plenty of attractions and restaurants seemed like begging for trouble.
I took some precautions, such as booking the hotel beforehand and utilizing the MWR to purchase a discounted Atlanta City Pass, which I highly recommend. This kept us busy, scurrying between the Georgia Aquarium, Word of Coca-Cola, CNN and Zoo Atlanta.
I was spoiled terribly with an evening showing of William Shakespeare’s “King Lear” at the New American Shakespeare Tavern. That alone sold me on the trip if nothing else did. Although they’re not included in the city pass, they do offer a significant military discount, which is always nice.
Actually, I was surprised at the number of places that had special accommodations or discounts for military personnel. As a newbie to the military spouse lifestyle, I often forget the many resources that are available. In line at the MWR, I witnessed the woman ahead of me save probably hundreds of dollars on lodging and tickets.
And if all of these resources are the “thank you” for the sacrifices made by the men and women who serve their country and the families who support them, it just doesn’t make sense not to use them.
I’ll admit I was skeptical about the trip at first. I’d heard the horror stories of soldiers coming home for their two-week leave and spending thousands of dollars without reason. Going to a big city with plenty of attractions and restaurants seemed like begging for trouble.
I took some precautions, such as booking the hotel beforehand and utilizing the MWR to purchase a discounted Atlanta City Pass, which I highly recommend. This kept us busy, scurrying between the Georgia Aquarium, Word of Coca-Cola, CNN and Zoo Atlanta.
I was spoiled terribly with an evening showing of William Shakespeare’s “King Lear” at the New American Shakespeare Tavern. That alone sold me on the trip if nothing else did. Although they’re not included in the city pass, they do offer a significant military discount, which is always nice.
Actually, I was surprised at the number of places that had special accommodations or discounts for military personnel. As a newbie to the military spouse lifestyle, I often forget the many resources that are available. In line at the MWR, I witnessed the woman ahead of me save probably hundreds of dollars on lodging and tickets.
And if all of these resources are the “thank you” for the sacrifices made by the men and women who serve their country and the families who support them, it just doesn’t make sense not to use them.