My Favorite Travel Moments of 2024: Stories That Changed Me
2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary—a year filled with travel, growth, and unforgettable memories. From the bustling streets of South Korea, where I lived and worked for six months, to the vibrant flavors and chaotic charm of Vietnam, each destination brought its own adventure. After two years abroad, returning home to reconnect with family and even trying my hand at pickleball felt like a comforting pause in an otherwise whirlwind journey.
This year has been a celebration of life’s lessons and the pursuit of happiness. As I sift through the endless photos and videos I’ve collected, it’s not the grandiose landmarks or elaborate plans that stick with me the most—it’s the quieter, more intimate moments. These are the memories that remind me why I love to travel: the laughter, the peace, and the unexpected joys that make life so special.
Top 3 Lessons I’ve Learned from Traveling the World
Celebrating My Birthday in Geojedo, South Korea
The Scene
Geoje is a beautiful island on the south coast about an hour's drive from Busan. Geoje has long been a destination I wished to travel to. Locals boast of its fresh air, serene views, and amazing seafood. Goeje is a lovely city not easily accessible to foreigners without their own transportation.
My birthday weekend started a little heated as my boss did not appreciate my birthday plans. However once in Geoje, all my problems were washed away.
HakDong is known for it’s small black pebbled beach.
Why It Stood Out
I have been traveling a lot since leaving the States back in 2022. However, this trip was just for me, dedicated to the celebration of my 30th birthday and spending every day doing only what I wanted to do. To make it extra special I went with someone special to me who took care of all the accommodations and fed me on time.
While the entire trip has stayed near and dear all year round. My favorite part was failing to skip rocks at Nakdong Beach. On a surprisingly cold and cloudy day, after having the best Kalgugsu, I’ve ever had the pleasure of devouring, we took a walk on a smooth rocked beach.
It’s cold, my rocks won’t skip, and I am having the time of my life
Impact on Perspective
My birthday was back in April. I have folders of files filled with images and videos no one has ever seen. As much as I want to share my experiences and encourage others to travel and live the life they desire, I also want to be mindful of myself. Not everything is for everyone. Some things are just for me and whoever I made the memories with. A secret slice of happiness to share between ourselves.
Exploring Miryang’s Hidden Gems
Swimming in Vietnam
The Scene
Vietnam is HOT. From the minute you leave your air-conditioned room to stepping out into the halls of your accommodations you will sweat profusely. There is no way around it, bring a fan, stay hydrated, and have a great time despite glistening with sweat in every photo. Heat aside, Vietnam is beautiful and has something for everyone. Bustling city streets, quiet rural areas with stunning landscapes, and coastal views to take your breath away.
Vietnam was my post-teaching English in South Korea vacation. I spent one week in Vietnam, before returning to Korea to pack the last of my things and fly back to the United States. We started in Hanoi but I desperately wanted to see the water. From Hanoi, we ventured to Ha Long Bay and booked a full-day cruise through our hotel. I say we, but I booked nothing, I just showed up when I was told (another dream realized).
A glorious view for a glorious vacation. Luon Cave, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Why It Stood Out
On the cruise, we were treated to food, drinks, mesmerizing views, and several side quests. One quest included kayaking in Luon Cave, where said swimming ensued. The warm water, surrounded by rocking mountains with lush green tops, called to me from the Kayak. No one else was in the water unless accidentally capsized. After a little apprehension, I answered the call.
Engulfed by the warm water I swam away from the kayak to a nearby rock poking out from the water. The rock was inhabited by a few cute little crabs. I felt completely at peace floating in the water, watching the crabs watch me.
Just a girl happy in the water
Impact on Perspective
Presence is the key to happiness. There in the water, I thought of nothing but the feel of the water on my skin, and the beauty of my surroundings. Forgetting time, schedules, and all the people around me, I was present. I don’t know how much later we realized that we were one of the last kayaks left, making our cruise late to depart for the next quest. Even still, swimming was the highlight of the trip for me and remains one of my favorite moments of the year.
Home: Time with My Nephew
The Scene
Returning home brings about complicated emotions for me, I don’t particularly enjoy being in the States. Of course, I find enjoyment wherever I venture and love spending time with friends and loved ones. But I know that if my family ever moved out of the United States, I most likely, would not come here. But those are thoughts for a different post.
The last time I saw my family, was October 2023, the day he was born. I was back on a plane returning to Korea a day later. Living a life of travel and adventure means missing a lot of milestones in the lives of those closest to you.
I returned home to be with my sister and my nephew and help in the demanding yet rewarding task of helping a child grow. While my feelings about the US are complicated, my feelings about my nephew are simple.
Watching the sunset on the city I grew up in
It remains unclear who wore who out
Why It Stood Out
My Little Peanut is a bundle of joyous chaos. In the months I have been home I have watched him learn to walk, say my name, open doors, cabinets, and dog kennels. We have enjoyed swimming, playing at the park, eating kimchi, and many many walks around the neighborhood.
Highlight how this moment provided balance and perspective in a travel-heavy year.
Impact on Perspective
These last six months with my family have reminded me of the importance of coming home. As I plan my trips for 2025 and beyond, I will carve out specific time to come home and spend time with those who matter to me most. Creating these memories will last much longer than the postcards and souvenirs sent from far-off places.
Moments in Reflection
These moments represent what I treasure most in life: celebration, freedom, and connection. They are the fruits reaped from seeds sown years ago, when I promised myself to lead a fulfilling life. These experiences have shaped themselves into core memories engraved into my being. They offer peace in times when I am frustrated with my external and inner world, reminding me of the beauty in everyday life.
I am so grateful for this year full of experience and lessons learned. I will use these memories to fuel my excitement for 2025 and the adventures I have yet to plan.
What were your favorite travel moments this year? Share your stories in the comments below!
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