Since I was a little girl, it has been a dream of mine to road trip across the States. It stemmed from the idea that driving from one side of a country to the other is the best way of exploring what is has to offer, especially in terms of insight, “freedom”, and mishap.

Now in its sixth year, the biennial MINI TAKES THE STATES rally is a prime example of such a trip. It will take 15 days to complete and, driving through 18 states, it will cover around 7 040 km. I could definitely get involved. I just need a MINI.

This year’s trip began in Atlanta, Georgia on 9 July, and while the most dedicated MINI enthusiasts will be going all the way, others will just pop in for a short trip or MINI introduction.

The idea is to convene with other MINI lovers and make friends while exploring the States. How fun? Check the map:

Two participants in what has been called an “exhaustive” trip are Monique Scott and Andrew Fawcett, taking part for the first time. Having joined up in Minneapolis, the pair are going to St. Ignace and heading across the Upper Peninsula en route to Sturgis, North Dakota, and back.

Their vehicle of choice is a 2009 MINI hardtop that’s dark green with a white stripe. The pair are on a mission to see Mount Rushmore for a bit of a “vacation”.

Every stop sees the fleet of MINI’s take over the town that they station at for the night and gives locals a chance to get involved, too. The photographs comprising so many MINI’s is something of a phenomenon.

Just look:

As you can see, there are various MINI’s out on the road, from the old-school to the new – and some are even themed, like the one below:

Star Wars for life.

If you want to join the ranks of the fabled MINI driver and maybe take a trip around South Africa, email editor@2oceansvibemedia.com, subject “MINI Jedi”, and we’ll hook up you up with a discount.

[source:ourmidland]