Friday, February 20, 2026

As a travel expert, in the past year I’ve taken 109 flights and visited 29 countries. These are the best and worst hotels and airlines, the most revolting food – and the moment everyone must experience once

As the year comes to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I’ve been on. This year, I have taken a total of 109 flights, covering a whopping 233,000-plus miles, while exploring 29 beautiful countries. It’s been a whirlwind adventure, and I can confidently say that I have been busy.

Travel has always been a passion of mine, and this year, I decided to take it to the next level. I made a promise to myself to visit as many new places as I could and to truly immerse myself in the culture and experiences each destination had to offer. And boy, did I keep that promise.

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beaches of Bali, I have been fortunate enough to witness the beauty and diversity of our world. Each country I visited had its unique charm and left a lasting impression on me. I have tried new foods, learned new languages, and made memories that will stay with me forever.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. With 109 flights, there were bound to be a few hiccups along the way. Delayed flights, lost luggage, and language barriers were just some of the challenges I faced. But each obstacle only made me more resilient and taught me valuable lessons about adaptability and patience.

One of the highlights of my travels was the people I met along the way. From fellow travelers to locals, I have been fortunate enough to connect with people from all walks of life. Each person had a unique story to share, and it was truly inspiring to hear about their experiences and perspectives. These interactions have broadened my horizons and made me appreciate the beauty of diversity.

Another aspect that made my travels even more fulfilling was the opportunity to give back. I made it a point to volunteer in each country I visited, whether it was teaching English to children in Thailand or helping with conservation efforts in Kenya. Giving back to the communities I visited not only made a positive impact but also gave me a deeper understanding of their way of life.

Of course, traveling to 29 countries in one year was not without its challenges. It required careful planning, budgeting, and time management. But the rewards far outweighed the difficulties. I have learned to be more organized and resourceful, and I have become a master at finding the best flight deals and accommodations.

Some may wonder how I managed to travel so much in just one year. The truth is, it’s all about priorities. I made travel a priority, and I was willing to make sacrifices in other areas to make it happen. I saved up, cut back on unnecessary expenses, and made the most of my vacation time from work. And it was all worth it.

As I look back on this year, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences I have had and the lessons I have learned. I have grown as a person, and my perspective on life has shifted in ways I never thought possible. I have also realized that the world is a much smaller place than we think, and there is so much beauty and kindness out there waiting to be discovered.

To anyone who dreams of traveling but thinks it’s impossible, I am living proof that it can be done. It takes determination, hard work, and a bit of courage, but the rewards are immeasurable. So if you have a desire to see the world, don’t let anything hold you back. Take that first step, and who knows where it may lead you.

As I embark on a new year, I am excited for the adventures that await me. I may not have as many flights or miles as this year, but I know that each journey will be just as meaningful and enriching. After all, as the saying goes, “travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

So here’s to a year filled with new experiences, new friendships, and new lessons. Cheers to being busy, and may our wanderlust never fade.

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