Since I clearly couldn’t hold myself back from traveling in 2018, I let 2019 me embrace all the mileage. While 2017 was full of backpacking travels, 2018 was full of unexpected travels, 2019 was full of experiences that stretched my flexibility muscles —all in a good way. :)
4 countries, 16 cities
• Los Angeles (5x)
• Puerto Galera, Philippines
• Manila, Philippines
• Palm Springs (Indian Wells!)
• Austin, Texas
• Houston, Texas
• Lake Tahoe, California
• Monterey, California
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Tokyo, Japan
• Kyoto, Japan
• Seoul, Korea
• Jeju, Korea
• Daegu, Korea
• Taipei, Taiwan
• Atlanta, Georgia
2019 TRAVEL THEMES
Because traveling embodies freedom and embracing how the journey unfolds, going anywhere with a group has always felt the opposite: restrictive. I usually prefer being in small groups where it’s easier to make decisions and avoid competing agendas. Boy did 2019 prove me wrong. While I still prefer to travel light and with flexibility, I’m also more open-minded to how group travel has its advantages (cost efficient + maximum enjoyment! —if people get along). I went on two 10+ group trips this year: Ruby Ibarra + Balikbayans’ Philippines tour and tagged along with a friend's group to Indian Wells in Palm Springs. The takeaways are that group travel works when people naturally self-select into complimentary roles and communicate effectively. It also helps to keep a loose structure into the plans, leaving enough wiggle room for people to do what they want / break free from the big group at times.
Group Travels
Taking photos vs
being in the moment
Some people like to enjoy the moment. Some people like to take photos of the moment. I say, who’s to say they’re mutually exclusive? If the environment is safe, taking photos is legal, location has good lighting —why not capture the moment? Everyone I’ve ever traveled with has known me to be the designated photographer (who has angle preferences), which is why I was in shock when my partner called me out for ‘taking away from an experience’ by taking photos. I wouldn’t bring this up if we haven’t already resolved this issue, but it was a point of contention that goes beyond simply traveling together. Our philosophical (strong word, I know) differences around this definitely challenged how we eventually compromised. But for anyone reading this, who also goes through this struggle… you are not alone! So, now that he willingly takes pictures… next lesson is on taking good photos.
Google Maps is the ultimate app
From offline mode, integrated real-time public transportation routes, multi-layer view (street view being my personal fave), and so many other incredibly useful features —this app has always been a staple for any travel destination. I double dare you to show me a more superior app.
Manila, Philippines
Los Angeles, California
Palm Springs (Indian Wells)
Ruby Ibarra + Balikbayans @ Los Angeles
Monterey, California
Lake Tahoe, California
Austin, Texas
New Orleans, Louisianna
Annapolis, Maryland
Seoul, Korea
Tokyo, Japan