The World Unfolding | April 10, 2025

Each year, I try to return home to Cleveland, Ohio, to reconnect with friends and family. My hometown of Chagrin Falls is a cozy, nostalgic place full of familiar faces, charming streets, and memories that always draw me back. There’s something incredibly comforting about stepping back into a place that shaped you. One of my favorite summer traditions is the Blossom Time Festival over Memorial Day weekend—a small-town celebration that brings the whole community together. Last year, I made it home in May. This year, I’m thinking June.

This time, I’m adding something special: a return to Michigan for golf. It’s been ten years since I played up there, and I’m long overdue. Summer golf in Michigan is as good as it gets—great conditions, stunning views, and amazing value.

I’m planning to explore several distinct golfing pockets across the state: the forested fairways near Clarkston, the coastal charm and rolling terrain of Petoskey, the serene solitude of Roscommon, and the dramatic lakeside views of Arcadia. Each of these regions has its own character, and together they represent the best of what Michigan summer golf has to offer. Courses like Arcadia Bluffs and Forest Dunes aren’t just good—they’re unforgettable. I’ve been thinking about these experiences for a decade! I still remember teeing off at Bay Harbor around 5 pm and finishing my round under a fiery Lake Michigan sunset.

Northern Michigan holds special memories for me. Ten years ago, I spent a week traveling through towns like Petoskey and Traverse City, soaking in sunsets by the water and savoring quiet mornings on empty fairways. The region combines small-town charm with spectacular natural beauty, a perfect backdrop for reconnecting with yourself through nature and sport. Picture strolling through downtown Petoskey, enjoying fresh pastries from a local bakery before an afternoon tee-time.

Unfortunately, this will likely be a solo trip. I’m embracing the solo travel mindset—flexible days, quiet mornings, and a chance to reflect. But it also means planning needs to be smart, efficient, and cost-effective.

Yet, this new addition to my annual Ohio trip brings logistical challenges. The primary one? Transportation. Integrating a golf trip in Michigan with friends & family time in Cleveland inevitably means a one-way car rental, notorious for their hefty fees. These rentals sometimes cost double or triple a standard round-trip rental, quickly turning a relaxing vacation into a budgeting headache.

So, here's where your expertise comes in—I need your help navigating this:

1. How can I save money on one-way car rentals? I've heard stories of people successfully using lesser-known rental companies, special discount codes, or even creative solutions like vehicle relocation services. Perhaps there's a specific loyalty program or a hidden tip you've discovered. Any advice or personal experiences you have would be incredibly helpful.

2. Airport Strategy—Traverse City, Grand Rapids, Cleveland, or Detroit? Another critical choice involves selecting the right airports to minimize costs, stress, and drive time. Flying standby, thanks to a flight attendant friend, adds flexibility but also requires careful planning. I'm currently leaning towards flying into Traverse City to immediately dive into golf, then gradually heading south, spending my last five days relaxing and reconnecting in Cleveland before flying out. Does this sound like the best strategy, or should I consider another approach?

3. Bonus Question: Is Mackinac Island worth a stop? I’ve never been and am wondering if it’s worth building into the route—even for a quick afternoon or overnight visit. If you’ve been, I’d love your honest thoughts: Is it overhyped, or a true highlight?

Here’s my ideal itinerary clearly outlined: Arrive in Traverse City, spend five leisurely days playing golf and exploring Michigan, then drive south, enjoying scenic stops along the way. Finish the trip with five days around Cleveland reconnecting with loved ones, ensuring the journey ends refreshed, stress-free, and fulfilling.

Your turn—I'd love your help:

• Have you discovered any brilliant ways to save money on one-way car rentals?

• Which airport strategy has worked best for your Midwest trips?

• And what’s your verdict on Mackinac—skip it or don’t miss it?

Reply directly to this email with your best advice. I'll feature the top reader tips in an upcoming newsletter!

Quick Poll (reply to vote):

• Best airport to start this trip: Traverse City, Grand Rapids, Cleveland, or Detroit?

Also, I'd love to hear your favorite Midwest travel memory or hidden gem spot. Sharing your stories helps us build a richer, more connected community.

Special Giveaway: To encourage your participation, I'll send premium coffee beans to the reader who submits the best travel tip or story. Let's inspire each other!

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Until next Thursday,

Jeff