Travel is always unpredictable – even costly at times to be very honest – but is a constant eye-opener. 

Life occasions have somewhat shifted and destination celebrations became the center of some of my 2025 itineraries. 

There I was in late 2024 planning my things to do in the Netherlands since I was attending my friend’s wedding in Amsterdam last April. Afterwards, I found myself at the perfect season, looking for the bus to the Keukenhof in Lisse to see Holland’s tulips in full bloom and partying a few days after in the streets of Utrecht for King’s Day. With Belgium just a few hours away, I made it a point to finally see my great aunt and her family in Schoten. 

My friend’s birthday last November in Bucharest had me going back to Europe for a second time in a year. The city was not as interesting as most destinations I’ve been to, but the company of my friends made the trip truly memorable. 

After the parties, I excitedly flew to the Andalusia region of Spain and explored the majestic sites of Seville and Córdoba. We all met up again after a few days in Madrid for another round of dinners and drinks. 

Bangkok welcomed me twice in a year. The first trip was to catch Kylie Minogue’s concert. I should be so lucky — she was literally a few meters away from me, dancing past me as she made her way to the second stage of the venue. In between, I was able to go back to my happy places Paris and Kyoto. 

My trips were a lot to take in but I really enjoyed them all. Still, there are things I ponder on when I was abroad. First off, is the experience worth the cost? Trips don’t come cheap and, coming from the Philippines with a relatively weaker currency, expenses will really be a bit pricier. 

Nonetheless, I remind myself that the world is big and my world should not just revolve where I am right now. Every opportunity to travel is a learning experience to know how and why things work in foreign cities and a chance to be inspired by the people and culture that make life and living interesting and beautiful. This has always been my motivation to earn and save more so I can explore more and see the many wonders that this world holds.

Next, after always seeing the differences in each city’s way of life, wouldn’t it be great to live abroad and experience the progress and discipline that Manila lacks so much? Maybe a change in environment is necessary. It can be scary but it can also be enriching and fulfilling. 

Every start of the year is a chance to improve one’s self. A new adventure in the next chapters of life might prove to be an interesting change for a new year. That is definitely something worth considering.