Exploring the World: My Recent International Travel Experiences
As a frequent traveler, I can say with confidence that international travel offers a wealth of opportunities to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. Here, I share some of my recent travel experiences, ranging from short day trips to extended stays in beautiful destinations.
Last Week: A Border Cross into New Zealand
This past week, I found myself working in twenty different countries, much to my surprise. Despite living close to the border, I rarely feel that anything is truly different from one place to another. Basic things might be different, but that can also happen within your native country. It is essential not to place too much faith in the legends that are often shared in your home country about other places.
Recent Trips and Experiences
Several weeks ago, I made a trip from Australia to New Zealand. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned, as the previous Tuesday was supposed to be my departure but unexpected complications arose. This has been a recurring theme in my travel experiences, with last-minute changes and delays being common.
However, my travel adventures are not limited to just those two trips. In the last year, I've visited Thailand over a dozen times and I've made 10 plus trips to Vietnam and Cambodia, among other destinations like Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, and Qatar. Each visit has its highlights, be it the bustling markets in Bangkok, the stunning landscapes of Nepal, or the vibrant cultural scenes of Malaysia.
Recent Intercontinental Destinations
Let’s move on to some of the more recent intercontinental trips. Three weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Norway, a country known for its breathtaking natural beauty, educated and open-minded people, and impressive efforts towards sustainability. The country is considered one of the greenest on earth when it comes to clean energy and recycling.
The last country I visited was Finland. Above all, it was a fantastic experience. I have friends there, I speak some of the language, and I love the food. The Finnish people and their culinary delights made for a memorable trip.
For a shorter stay, two weeks ago, I traveled to Colombia and Ecuador. These visits were short but sweet, and both countries were filled with beauty and warm hospitality. I also have friends in both these countries and I appreciate the vibrant food scenes there.
In the 1980s, I was forced to spend a night in Canada border crossing. It was a harrowing experience, with border guards being particularly unfriendly on the way back, making it an unforgettable and unpleasant one. But that was in the past, and I have moved on from those days.
Only last Tuesday, I took a trip to Malaysia with my mother, a short border crossing just to grab groceries and other supplies, as it’s less expensive. It turned into a short trip to Kuala Lumpur and Penang, just recently after postponing the trip for exactly two years, with the original plan being for May 2020.
Traveling abroad is not just about visiting new places, but it’s also about the people you meet and the experiences you share along the way. Each trip brings a new story and a new perspective to share, making every journey worthwhile.
In conclusion, whether it’s a long international trip or a short border crossing, every travel experience is enriching. It's a chance to explore, learn, and grow, both as a traveler and as a person.