In the Rearview: My Favorite Travel Moments of 2017

Hi, again! I’m back!

Wow – 2017 was definitely one for the books! Since I’ve last posted, I’ve once again become an expat, I’ve started working completely online (more on that to come!), and, of course, I traveled some more. Last year was filled with many twists, turns, and pleasant surprises. I grew a lot in 2017. But, what I didn’t do in 2017 was tick off a new country. In 2017, I decided to revisit places that were near and dear to me, and to explore these places deeper, and see more beauty in those countries than what I have seen before.

2017 was remarkable, and it made me realize that it’s not always all about adding to “the list”.

Ghent, Belgium
More people need to see more of Belgium. Period. Belgium is criminally underrated, and continuously overlooked. Do not overlook Belgium. Do not overlook Ghent. Ghent is quieter than Bruges (but just as cute), and the selection of beer options is on par with Brussels.

PS: The bar behind me is awesome!

Havana, Cuba
I almost didn’t make it to Cuba. I was sick AF, my girl brought me medicine at 7AM, I basically crawled over the border from San Diego to Tijuana, but I made my flight and ended up drinking margaritas on my layover with my super ride-or-die friend (Lynnzee – you rock!). I’m glad I rallied – Cuba ended up being one of the most magical and interesting trips I’ve ever been on.

Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
They say the third time is a charm. Well, it is. Not that the first two times in HCMC weren’t. I love this city. This trip to Vietnam was extra special because I got to share this captivating place with my parents. They fell in love with this country too, and now Vietnam holds an even more special place in my heart.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
There was no way I was going to be in Southeast Asia without stopping in Kuala Lumpur. I couldn’t wait to get back: KL is one of my favorite cities on the planet. I spent five dreamy days by myself wandering around Kuala Lumpur. KL is a city of extreme contrasts, and that attracts me to this place like a magnet.

Hrun, Iceland
Iceland is famous for its many hot springs, but most visitors only end up making it to the touristy Blue Lagoon. I barely found this hot spring, but thankfully, there were two other cars parked just off the side of the road. A small path took me from the makeshift parking lot to the remote hot spring. To my surprise, there was a hunky naked man relaxing in the hot spring. Note: Nudity is completely normal. I quickly got acquainted with my new friend, and I surely can’t complain that a handsome naked man ended up taking the best pictures of me during this excursion in Iceland. Also note: Getting out of the hot spring with a wet bathing suit on in the freezing cold really sucks.

Palm Springs, California, USA
Palms Springs was nothing that I expected, in all the weird and right ways. Palm Springs is a haven for chaotic pool parties during the summer, so I spent my days relaxing by the Saguaro drinking beers that I had to put ice in because it was so hot, and I watched people be people. Want to sweat uncontrollably while watching people let loose? Go to Palm Springs.

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam has been tantalizing my senses for over ten years. I just can’t get enough of this city! While I went to Amsterdam numerous times in 2017, visiting during Pride was unforgettable. The celebration of love left its trance over Amsterdam like a warm embrace – it was a very special time. If you’re looking to be a part of one of the best celebrations on the planet, make sure to visit Amsterdam during Pride.