The celebration didn’t stop at the departure gate – it continued onboard, and then once we landed. There was music, dignitaries, food, speeches, and so many happy people greeting us. The memorabilia is adorable – and didn’t stop once we landed – the Senegalese carved wooden boat will be displayed in my office along with the baobab tree. What a phenomenal welcome to Senegal. I was ready to get to my hotel – and oh my… it was eye opening. More to come!
Countries
Welcome to my adventures. Happy reading!
Spring Break 2025 consisted of Budapest and Belgrade, with driving in-between Hungary and Serbia. Initially we planned to add Sofia, Bulgaria, but the rental car company said we couldn’t go there with the car. We switched it up and stayed 2 nights in Belgrade, and what a surprise! Belgrade was a wonderful city, a mix of old and modern; the people were incredibly friendly, helpful, and kind. We walked a lot and saw beautiful architecture including two old churches. On the way back to Budapest, we ventured to Novi Sad for more sightseeing and shopping. The St Regis was a fabulous place to stay – right on the river and close to many restaurants. I highly recommend checking out Belgrade.
And we’re off! Snagged the upgrade on the long-haul flight – and ready to settle in for the short 10 hours to Munich. We ventured into the city center during our 5-hour layover, and then dashed it back to get into Budapest. Sure, it was over14 hours of traveling, but the time is going to pass anyway – might as well sleep on the plane and arrive into a new country and a new adventure. So excited to share this trip with a good friend.
In my bid to travel to 100 countries, I was thrilled to find this opportunity to travel to Senegal. I’ve heard of the country, but never had an inclination to travel there. As luck would have it, the opportunity arose thanks to an inaugural trip there… and I snagged the flight! I’m looking forward to explore the city, the beautiful beaches, and a short side trip to Cabo Verde.
A long weekend getaway is just what the Doctor ordered – sun, sand, drinks, and good food. Aruba, although the water is lovely and the white sand beaches are nice, is way too Americanized for me. It was like Vegas and Atlantic City meet Mexico – contrived, overpriced, and felt inauthentic. The AirBnB on the beach was perfect – and avoided the insanely expensive and crowded beach resorts. A car rental is a must and afforded the chance to see the real Aruba, get away from the hordes of tourists, and explore some local eats.
Now, Curacao was a much better and relaxing experience. The VRBO had a perfect view of the ocean and was quiet, private and had a beautiful pool. A car is an absolute must on this island. The food, local culture, and people were all wonderful. I’d absolutely come back here!
I’ve been thinking about my 2025 vision board, as it’s time to start laying out the goals for the year. I divide my goals into 4 categories: travel (2 new countries to reach 100 countries); professional; personal (reading, health, etc.); and goals by each boy, since we work on titles in several sports. I’ve often been told that people who are single-focused get what they want, versus the people who split their focus. I disagree – when you break a goal down into tasks and schedule your calendar around these tasks, you can accomplish everything you set out to do.
Added another country to my list today – and this one has been on my “must visit” list since I was a young girl. Sydney is our home for the next 5 days, and we plan to make the most of it from attending a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House, exploring this marvelous city, venturing to the Blue Mountains and Bondi Beach, plus climbing Harbour Bridge and everything in-between. We have a packed schedule and it’s just beginning!
That’s the million dollar question – where shall I go next? There have been some awesome airfare deals to Europe and Turkey. Just not ideal times for me to travel. I was trying to figure out a 4-night destination in January, but part of me is drawn, rather, pulled to stay home. I’ve been on the go constantly and about ready to head out on another BIG adventure. Maybe it’s time to hang at home and relax. Hmmm! Usually I have a trip or two booked, but this is the first time I’m not experiencing anxiety from lack of planned vacations. As always, work travel is planned and booked – with California, Florida, Ohio, Texas, and Illinois on the horizon.
Santorini was by far the best part of our trip to Greece. It was so peaceful with stunning landscapes and architecture. Our resort was perched above the sea and afforded us beautiful sunrise and sunset views. I took this on our last day here, while we waited for the Uber to arrive. A short flight from Santorini back to Athens and then the long flight (11 hours) to Chicago. And, then another flight on to Denver. I’ll cherish this moment of serenity, and be reminded of all of those I’ve experienced this trip. A good week of recharging, and much needed! We’ll be back next year – girls trip 2.0!!
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