Top 10 Travel Moments of 2024

2024 has been my most well-traveled year yet, filled with a beautiful mosaic of adventures woven together by spontaneity and delightful surprises. Even though some of my trips had a work aspect, they all provided wonderful opportunities to explore off-the-beaten paths, turning side trips into the beautiful highlights of my journeys. In this blog, I’m excited to share the vivid moments that made these travels so special—the unexpected encounters, the stunning views, and the delightful meals that linger on the palate long after the journey concludes. I’ll skip over the not-so-glamorous parts, though: the long airport layovers, the immigration lines, the traffic jams, and those frantic dashes to catch nearly missed flights. While these moments were part of the adventure, they didn’t overshadow the joy of creating beautiful memories. So, let’s dive in together!

A Surprising First Impression


Stepping into Barcelona for the first time was like entering a vibrant mosaic, where history, art, and modern life collided in a symphony of colors and energy. The streets pulsed with life, and every turn revealed another masterpiece, but nothing prepared me for the awe of standing before La Sagrada Familia. Its towering spires seemed to pierce the heavens, while the intricate façades told stories of faith and imagination. Inside, the kaleidoscope of sunlight filtering through stained glass felt almost divine, casting the space in emerald, sapphire, and ruby hues. Barcelona’s charm was not just in its beauty but in its contradictions—a city of grand cathedrals and lively markets, ancient alleyways, and buzzing innovation. It reshaped my perception of Europe, revealing both its flaws and its undeniable magic, and left me longing to uncover more of its hidden treasures.

Best Cultural Immersion


Istanbul, a city that straddles continents and centuries, swept me into its intoxicating blend of history and culture, making it the most captivating solo travel experience of my life. Walking through the grand courtyards of the Blue Mosque and the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, I felt the pulse of an empire that shaped civilizations. Every corner told a story, from the whispering stones of Hagia Sophia to the aromatic wafts of Turkish coffee in a quiet teahouse. Yet, what truly set Istanbul apart was the warmth of its people. Strangers became friends over shared plates of meze, their smiles as generous as their servings. Turkish hospitality, with its unmatched sincerity, made me feel less like a visitor and more like a welcome guest. It was a city that didn’t just offer sights but embraced me with its soul, leaving a permanent imprint on my traveler’s heart.

A Foodie Dream Come True

Fukuoka unfolded as a culinary paradise, where every meal felt like an invitation to discover the soul of Japan through its flavors. By the Hakata River, the yatai—small, open-air food stalls—came alive under the soft glow of lanterns, offering sizzling skewers, steaming bowls of Hakata ramen, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled seafood. Perched on a simple stool, I slurped my way through rich, milky pork broth ramen, a dish so comforting it felt like a warm embrace, even during the humid summer season. Beyond the yatai, I explored the local delicacies: succulent mentaiko, fluffy takoyaki, and perfectly crisp chicken nanban. Each bite was a celebration of Fukuoka’s culinary heritage, enhanced by the friendly banter of stall owners and the lively hum of fellow diners. 

In this city, food wasn’t just sustenance—it was an experience that connected me to the heart of Japanese culture.

A Breathtaking Natural Wonder

Visiting White Island in Camiguin was like stepping into a slice of paradise you’d only see in travel magazines. It’s just a simple sandbar in the middle of the sea, but wow, what a view! The soft, white sand felt like powdered sugar beneath my feet, and all around was this incredible expanse of crystal-clear water shimmering under the sun. And then, there’s Mt. Hibok-Hibok in the background, standing tall like a quiet guardian—it’s the kind of scenery that makes you pause and take it all in. Watching the colors of the sky shift during sunrise was pure magic as if the universe was showing off its best work. No frills, no distractions—just nature at its most stunning, reminding me why it’s called a natural wonder.

Most Unexpected Adventure


My unexpected Swiss adventure was a perfect blend of awe and exhilaration, with moments that felt like they were straight out of a dream. Hiking in Saint-Cergue, I was surrounded by lush forests and the crisp, cool air of the Alps, each step leading me deeper into a landscape that seemed to exist solely in postcards. But the real magic came when I caught sight of Mont Blanc, its snow-capped peak towering majestically in the distance—nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale and beauty of it in person. Later, sailing on the tranquil waters of Lake Geneva in Versoix, I felt the thrill of the wind and the serenity of the lake, with Mont Blanc still looming in the background like a silent giant. The unexpected combination of hiking, sailing, and the breathtaking view of the Alps made this adventure one of the most unforgettable of my travels.

Most Photogenic Location

Geneva, Switzerland, is a photographer’s dream, where every corner seems to have been designed for a perfect shot. The city’s stunning blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance makes it impossible not to snap a picture at every turn. From the iconic Jet d'Eau shooting high into the air against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains to the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, each scene feels like it belongs in a gallery. The shimmering waters of Lake Geneva reflect the surrounding alpine peaks, creating a mirror image so flawless it almost seems unreal. The historic buildings, like St. Pierre Cathedral, stand proudly against a sky so clear it almost seems painted. Whether it’s the charm of the small cafés along the lake or the grandeur of the surrounding nature, Geneva’s beauty is simply unparalleled, and every frame feels like it captures the essence of perfection.

If I took a thousand photos of Geneva, not a single one is ugly.

A Travel Challenge Turned Triumph


Imagine this: I arrive in Singapore from Sydney with a tight two-hour layover, thinking I’ve got everything under control. I confidently take the Skytrain from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2 since my gate is at E8. Naturally, I stop by the smoking area for a 15-minute ‘relaxing’ break, enjoying a few sticks to calm my nerves. Fast forward to when I finally get to the gate—only to see ‘Denpasar’ plastered on the screen. Panic mode. My heart races as I frantically check my phone and discover a message from Singapore Airlines: my gate has been moved to A12, back in Terminal 3. You could say I went from zero to Usain Bolt in seconds, cursing every step as I sprinted back, convinced I’d miss the flight. But when I finally reached Terminal 3, I found our cabin crew in the same situation, panting and furious. So there we were, feeling stuffy and stressed, all chasing the same plane, while I silently cursed the SQ gate team’s idea of a ‘fun’ layover game.

To be fair, I still love Singapore Airlines and the layover at Changi Airport.

Most Romantic or Soulful Spot

The Galata Bridge in Istanbul, especially during sunset, has a kind of magic that makes it feel like the city’s heart beats a little slower. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues over the Bosphorus, the bridge transforms into a soulful haven where time seems to pause. I found myself standing there, mesmerized by the sight of fishermen casting their lines, their silhouettes framed by the warm, fading light. Below, the gentle ripple of the water echoed the quiet hum of the city, and the distant calls of seagulls added a soundtrack to the scene. The blend of history, the view of the majestic mosques, and the romantic pull of the sunset made it feel like you weren’t just watching a beautiful moment—you were part of it, connected to Istanbul’s timeless soul. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in the love that lingers in the air, making it undeniably one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Biggest Bucket List Achievement

This year, I finally ticked off the top item on my bucket list—watching Coldplay live in Sydney, a city that’s always held a special place in my heart. Last year, I was crushed when I missed out on tickets to every venue they played at, the frustration of constantly checking and refreshing my screen is still fresh in my mind. But this time, fortune was on my side. When the tickets went on sale, I was ready, and against all odds, I scored one for their Sydney concert. I went alone, but somehow, that made the experience even more magical. As the first chords of "Viva La Vida" echoed through the stadium, it felt like the universe was giving me a personal serenade. The crowd’s energy, the electrifying atmosphere, and seeing Chris Martin do his thing in my favorite city—there was no better way to experience my ultimate concert dream. It was a night I’ll never forget, a perfect harmony of music, memories, and pure joy.

A Moment of Personal Growth

As I reflect on my 2024 travels, I'm struck by how much the world has shaped me in ways I didn’t expect. From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the serene beauty of White Island, each destination left its mark, offering not just new sights but new ways of seeing. I wandered through ancient temples, hiked lush trails, and sailed tranquil waters, each moment making me feel smaller in the grandness of the world yet somehow more connected to it. But the most profound discovery came not in the landmarks or landscapes but in the people I met along the way—their warmth, generosity, and unique perspectives. Travel this year didn’t just expand my horizons physically; it deepened my understanding of myself and the world around me. 

In every city, in every conversation, and in every person I’ve encountered, I found a lesson in humility, patience, and gratitude. It will always remind me that the greatest journey is often the one within.

Muchas gracias, merci beaucoup, maraming salamat 2024!