I’m back with an update on my 2019 travels! Similar to last year when I decided to share my travel plans for the first time and then provided what I like to call quarterly updates, I’m sharing an update on where I’ve traveled to so far in 2019 and what’s coming up in the next few months.
In February, I wrote about my January trip to Mexico and the numerous places that were already on my 2019 travel list.
Since then, I’ve traveled to a few of those places. Here’s where I’ve been since February:
Iceland
Iceland was an incredible birthday adventure, full of Icelandic horses, waterfalls, the Northern Lights and a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience trying ice climbing for the first time. This is definitely a country I hope to return to one day soon.
Hong Kong
I always love going to Hong Kong but this last trip was really great, partly because I was with my mom and we had a great time exploring the city (and shopping), and also because the weather was overall much better than my previous visits to Hong Kong. I FINALLY got to see the Hong Kong skyline from Victoria Peak (third time’s a charm).
Vietnam
Vietnam has to be the surprise of the year so far. Even though I read that Danang was the “Miami of Vietnam,” I still went there with no expectations. Overall, I really enjoyed my time in Vietnam. Hoi An is more touristy than I expected, but it’s a beautiful town with very friendly people. I also did a countryside bicycle tour, which I loved. Oh, and the food! I miss the food so much...
Thailand
This was my first trip to Bangkok and it was...hot. Wow, I haven’t been so hot in a very long time. It was also hot in Phuket but at least I was by the water so I didn’t feel it as much. I enjoyed Bangkok a lot, but I definitely want to return again during a cooler time of year to explore even more (and continue to eat all the food, of course).
South Florida
I went to South Florida to see my forever FLOTUS, Michelle Obama, on her book tour, and she was AMAZING! I’m so glad I went and had the opportunity to experience the tour before it ended. Also, New York was still way too cold at that time so it was good to escape to the sunshine and the sea (and the pool) for a few days.
With those trips done, here’s what’s coming up in the next few months:
Italy
In my last update, I shared that I was only going to Venice. Well, that’s changed slightly since I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to swing by Milan first so I’ll be doing Milan for play and Venice for work.
Copenhagen
As I mentioned in my first travel plans post, Copenhagen has been on my list for a very long time, so I’m excited to finally make my way there very soon!
England
I mentioned my trip to London in my previous post, but in addition to London, I’ll also be spending time in Brighton. I visited this seaside town for the second time two years ago and was reminded of how lovely it is, so I can’t wait to return.
South Florida
Back to South Florida I go for some pre-Jamaica family time (though my trip to Jamaica will also be with family). I’ll also be there during Miami Spice, so I anticipate lots of three-course dinners in my near future.
Jamaica
A few months ago, I mentioned Jamaica as a possibility, but those plans have now been confirmed. I’ll be heading to my favorite island in the world to celebrate some family birthdays and enjoy all the festivities.
Philadelphia and New Jersey
This is a first for me: I have not one but two weddings in one weekend! One in Philly and one in Jersey, and fortunately I’ll be able to make both. Thanks to those friends (who are from two completely different chapters of my life) for getting married in somewhat close proximity to each other, geographically!
That’s all for now. I’ll be back in a few months with my third quarter travel update!