🌍✨Welcome to my blog! Are you ready for pictures? If this is your first visit, get ready for an adventure-filled treat. And to all my returning readers, thank you for joining me on this journey again. I’m excited to share even more unforgettable stories with you. So, whether you’re new here or a seasoned traveler in my world, let’s embark on this exciting voyage together!

It’s no secret that my passion for travel runs deep. The allure of exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and experiencing unforgettable adventures is something that ignites my soul. Every time my hubby and I start planning our next travel escapade, it’s like a rush you just can’t put into words. The world feels boundless, full of possibilities. Lately, I’ve been itching to kick off a fresh tradition, something where I can reminisce about the top moments of my year, reliving all the incredible adventures I’ve been fortunate enough to experience.

So, here are the highlights of my 2023 ✨🌍

The Caribbean

In 2023, my husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary with a trip to George Town, Cayman Islands. Pronounced “kei-muhn” or “kay-men”, this tropical paradise is composed of three jewels: Cayman Brac, Little Cayman, and the crown jewel, Grand Cayman – the largest and most sought-after gem in the archipelago.

Our hotel stood along the renowned Seven Mile Beach, ironically only six miles in length, nestled on the western coast of Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands boast stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, making them a paradise for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities. Seven Mile Beach, in particular, is known for its beauty and has been ranked among the best beaches in the Caribbean.

As a British overseas territory, we quickly adapted to the left-hand driving and the quaint left-handed quirks, from door handles to everyday customs. The local currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar, holds its own against the British pound; payments are accepted in both Cayman and US Dollars.

Getting around the island was a breeze, yet what truly intrigued us was the method of determining taxi fares. Instead of modern technology and digital apps like Uber or Lyft, fares were calculated using a printed book, evoking a nostalgic charm of simpler days 😄.

Given the island’s status as an import-dependent territory, prices tend to be on the higher side. Despite this, we thoroughly enjoyed the diverse culture, where the majority of people have mixed heritage originating from Africa, Jamaica, and Europe. We learned about the rich history from our private tour guide (Cayman native), who provided us with fascinating insights into the islands’ past.

Overall, our experience in the Cayman Islands was delightful. We relished the delicious food, felt safe exploring the area, and were captivated by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. It was a memorable way to celebrate our anniversary, and we are grateful for the experience.

Central America

Panama City, Panama holds a special place in our hearts as a go-to winter destination. Having visited a few times already, including the winter of 2023, we’ve come to appreciate its blend of modern amenities, historical significance, and cultural charm. From its convenient accessibility with direct flights from the US to its intriguing fusion of American influence and Latin American flair, its access to the Panama Canal, Panama City offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds.

One of the most striking features of Panama City is its impressive downtown area, reminiscent of Manhattan with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. It’s a testament to the city’s rapid development and growing cosmopolitan vibe. Yet, beyond the urban landscape, Panama City boasts well-maintained highways and an efficient transportation system, making it remarkably easy to navigate for visitors.

What sets Panama City apart, however, is its affordability without sacrificing quality. From upscale accommodations to budget-friendly stays, there’s something for every traveler’s preference and budget. Whether you’re indulging in luxury or seeking a more modest experience, Panama City delivers.

One thing that makes the experience more authentic is the language barrier. Unlike lots of other tourist places, most people in Panama City speak only Spanish. Take Costa Rica, for instance, just north of Panama, where many folks speak excellent English, especially in big American hotel chains like Marriott. Panama feels different, so if you’re thinking of going there, it could be helpful to learn a bit of Spanish. If not, you can use Google Translate. It’s not flawless, but it’ll get you understood.

However, it also offers a chance for cultural immersion and practicing languages. As someone who began learning Spanish in graduate school, I’ve discovered that engaging with locals is not only fulfilling but also enriching. Interestingly, my proficiency in French appears to improve my ability to speak Spanish, earning me compliments as I go along.

From exploring the historic Panama Canal to strolling through the Panama Viejo (Old Panama, now a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site), every moment in Panama City is filled with discovery and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to uncover in this dynamic city.

Yet another captivating feature of the Gulf of Panama, sourced from the Pacific Ocean, unveils itself at Playa Bonita, where we stayed at the Westin hotel: the mesmerizing dance of high and low tides. With clockwork precision, every twelve hours, the tide ascends to an impressive fifteen feet at its zenith, only to retreat to depths of three to four feet during its nadir. Witnessing this natural phenomenon firsthand was nothing short of extraordinary.

In conclusion, Panama City has effortlessly captured our hearts as a favorite winter getaway destination. Its blend of accessibility, affordability, and cultural richness makes it a gem worth exploring time and time again. So, if you’re searching for your next travel adventure, consider Panama City—it may just surprise you in the best possible way.

South East Asia

It had been years in the making, a dream nurtured within our family for the single members among us at the time. Despite numerous reschedules and careful consideration of safe destinations for two women traveling alone, we diligently researched. Then, after what seemed like an eternity of anticipation, the perfect moment arrived, and our much-anticipated Girls Trip materialized into reality.

As the world slowly emerged from the shadows of the pandemic, my youngest sister and I found ourselves eagerly counting down the days until we could embark on our much-anticipated adventure. Our destination? The vibrant city-state of Singapore – a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and endless possibilities.

From the minute we landed, we were in full mode tourists. Staying first at the W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, we quickly navigated a lot of touristic hotspots of the island. From the dizzying heights of the Sentosa SkyHelix to the tranquil beauty of the Gardens by the Bay, we marveled at the awe-inspiring sights that unfolded before us. We rode the Singapore Cable Car, gazing out at the city skyline as it stretched out beneath us like a twinkling sea of lights.

We delved into the attractions and beauty that Resorts World Sentosa had to offer. Visiting the S.E.A Aquarium was a memorable experience for me, as I couldn’t recall the last time I had been to an aquarium before this trip. At Universal Studios, we had a perfect amount of time, exploring themed rides, shows, and attractions across different zones. Additionally, we embarked on a day trip to the stunning Palawan beach, where we strolled along and ventured to the floating bridge leading to Asia’s southernmost point. It was an exhilarating experience.

Undoubtedly, you cannot end a journey in Singapore without a stop at the iconic Marina Bay Sands. Before our trip, my sister and I were captivated by the movie Crazy Rich Asians, much of which was filmed in Singapore. Exploring the sites and landmarks from the film filled us with excitement. The towering structures and panoramic views were simply awe-inspiring, showcasing the city’s relentless drive for innovation and advancement. We marked my birthday with a delightful celebration at the rooftop Italian restaurant, Lavo, and indulged in some shopping at the expansive underground mall beneath Marina Bay Sands.

And amidst it all, there was the warmth of the Singaporean people – friendly and welcoming. Yet, it was the remarkable hospitality of the staff at JW Marriott South Beach that truly left a memorable impression.

From the moment we arrived, their hospitality shone through. Despite booking a regular room, they graciously upgraded us to a suite a month in advance, enhancing our stay from the outset. Anticipating our needs with thoughtful gestures, they ensured there was a sofa bed already set up, understanding our desire for personal space.

A delightful welcome gift awaited us, setting the tone for a memorable experience. On the occasion of my birthday, a heartfelt note accompanied by balloons and a delicious cake was a touching gesture, imbuing the celebration with an extra layer of warmth and sincerity.

It wasn’t just about the material amenities; it was the genuine care and effort invested by the staff that made our stay extraordinary. The team at the executive lounge epitomized this, going above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction at every turn.

Holding the prestigious title of Ambassador Elite with Marriott doesn’t guarantee an effortless and enjoyable experience every time. In a world where hospitality can sometimes feel transactional, the genuine warmth and exceptional service at JW Marriott South Beach stood out as a beacon of hospitality. It wasn’t just a hotel stay; it was an experience with warmth, care, and a genuine desire to create lasting memories.

As our time in Singapore neared its end, we concluded our visit at the Jewel Changi, an incredible experience within the Changi International Airport. Inside, we explored the enchanting Canopy Park and marveled at the majestic Rain Vortex. Pretty cool if you ask me. However, it also marked the bittersweet conclusion of our Girls Trip. As my sister and I prepared to depart from different terminals, the realization weighed heavy on me, and I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness at the prospect of parting ways.

We loved Singapore, and I highly recommend it.

US Travels

While frequent travels are somewhat routine for me, visiting New York City twice within a year was an extraordinary feat, considering I usually find the Big Apple a bit overwhelming. The first trip was for a leadership training program and conference in May, immersing me in both professional development and the vibrant energy of the city. I graduated in June, in Atlanta.

The second trip, however, was a completely different adventure – a Global Citizen Festival at the Central Park Lawn. Participation in Global Citizen events invariably inspires a profound sense of purpose, amidst a community dedicated to effecting positive change in their respective spheres.

The Middle East

In 2023, I had the opportunity to embark on a journey to Israel. Unlike any other, the country holds significance for Christians and Jews who revere it as the Holy Land, while for Muslims, Jerusalem stands as their third holiest site. Traveling through the Middle East, one is frequently advised to dress modestly and navigate with caution—a lesson I learned years ago during a visit to Egypt.

However, arriving in Israel, particularly Tel Aviv, felt remarkably different. It resembled a bustling city in the United States, where women sported a variety of attire, and the atmosphere exuded modern days. When we visited, it was in August, a hot summer with temperatures in the 90s all day, for two weeks. I had never felt so hot, glad that it was dry heart in some locations like Jerusalem and northern Israel.

Jerusalem on the other hand, you are advised to dress up modestly due to religious sites and churches that dorn Jerusalem. Sitting up high in the mountains, you can feel the temperature difference from Tel Aviv. The Jerusalem Old City is nothing like I have ever seen.

It is divided into four distinct quarters: the Jewish Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter, and the Armenian Quarter. Each quarter is characterized by its own unique architecture, religious sites, and cultural atmosphere.

The Jewish Quarter houses significant landmarks such as the Western Wall (Kotel), while the Christian Quarter is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Muslim Quarter features bustling markets and the Dome of the Rock, while the Armenian Quarter boasts historical churches and cultural heritage sites.

My Highlights in Jerusalem

• Yad Vashem (Hebrew for Memories Monument): Located on the Mount of Remembrance to preserve and honor the memory of the six million Jews, who perished in the Holocaust. Personally, I found myself unprepared for the emotional intensity of the experience awaiting me. The exhibitions meticulously trace Jewish history, particularly in Europe, evoking profound distress.

Despite having familiarized myself with accounts from Holocaust survivors through history narratives and memoirs, I found it heartbreaking and could only endure about an hour before feeling overwhelmed. Whether it was the sheer brutality of human cruelty or my own firsthand encounters surviving the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, I had to leave the Memorial to shield myself from further trauma.

• The Garden of the Righteous among the Nations: Nestled within the grounds of Yad Vashem is the garden adorned with trees, each symbolizing the bravery of non-Jews who risked their lives to rescue Jews during the Holocaust. Among these stands the Ten Boom family tree, a poignant tribute to their courageous actions immortalized in Corrie Ten Boom’s book “The Hiding Place.”

• The Western (Wailing) Wall: Situated within the ancient walls of Jerusalem’s Old City, specifically in the Jewish Quarter, the Wailing Wall holds profound significance as the holiest site in Judaism. It stands as the sole remaining portion of the original retaining wall of the Second Temple, constructed over two millennia ago.

• The City of David: located in the south of Temple Mount outside the walls of the Old City, this Biblical archaeological site is an ancient fortified city that David conquered and made the capital of Israel (Jerusalem). With a private tour guide, we toured underground tunnels that included Hezekiah’s tunnel and the Siloam Pool at the bottom of the city to the east.

• The Temple Mount is located on Mount Moriah (the place Abraham brought Isaac for sacrifice): this is where both the First Temple (built in 1000 BC by King Solomon and destroyed by Babylonians in 586 BC) and Second Temple (built by Ezra, Herod between 538-515 BC and destroyed by Romans in 70 AD/CE) & exiled Israelites for 2 millennia. Today, the Wailing Wall (1600ft retaining wall) stands on the western side of the Temple Mount. On the top of the Temple Mount is where the Dome of the Rock is, part of the Muslim Quarter.

• The Great Bridge Route: We were guided by a private tour guide, who led us through an incredible discovery part of a recent excavation: a bridge linking Jerusalem’s upper city to the Temple Mount. This ingeniously designed structure was crafted to span a valley, eliminating the necessity for ascents and descents between the City of David and the Temple Mount. Additionally, the bridge incorporated an aqueduct system, facilitating the transportation of water to the Temple.

• The Garden of the Tomb and the Church of the Sepulcher: (one of these two locations is traditionally believed to be where Jesus was crucified (Golgotha), and Jesus’ empty tomb (where he was buried and later resurrected). This is located within the Christian Quarter.

Concluding our three-day visit to Jerusalem, we wrapped up the journey at the Israel Museum; focusing on the archaeological section housing the recently discovered Dead Sea Scrolls and the history. This particular visit followed the Great Bridge tour and an hour-long walk on the Ramparts Walk of the Old City, amidst sweltering heat. By the time we reached the museum, exhaustion had taken its toll, and my interest waned. Nevertheless, I look forward to revisiting the museum some day 😊

Our lodging choice in Jerusalem was the Waldorf Astoria, a Hilton Hotel, situated conveniently close to the Old City, downtown, and various points of interest—all within walking distance. I highly recommend this hotel when visiting Jerusalem.

My Highlights Outside Jerusalem

Thanks to having a rental car at our disposal, we had the freedom to explore every destination on our itinerary. Departing from Jerusalem, we drove down to the Dead Sea, visited the Masada National Park, and concluded our day trip by driving back to Tel Aviv through the stunning Negev Desert.

• Masada National Park: Located on a hilltop overlooking the Dead Sea, and accessed via a cable car, the Park holds profound historical and archaeological significance. It is home to the ancient fortress of Masada, built by King Herod the Great around 30 BCE. Masada is the site of a dramatic siege during the Jewish-Roman War in 73-74 CE.

The fortress was besieged by the Roman army, and rather than surrender, its Jewish defenders chose mass suicide. This event has become a symbol of Jewish heroism and resistance. Today, Masada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape, as well as well-preserved ruins and archaeological excavations that provide insight into ancient Jewish history and culture.

• The Dead Sea: Located at the lowest point on Earth’s surface, approximately 1,410 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea shares borders with Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. Its waters are saturated with thick salt, which enables visitors to effortlessly float on its surface.

The day of our visit was exceptionally scorching, exacerbated by the low altitude, making the temperature intolerable. Regrettably, I couldn’t indulge in swimming (floating), as the water was uncomfortably hot.

• Caesarea (Keisarya in Hebrew): An ancient city located on the Mediterranean coast of Israel, was once a bustling major port known for its strategic significance and architectural city. We visited the Caesarea National Park; Caesarea holds significant biblical importance, notably as the place where the apostle Paul was imprisoned for two years due to his unwavering faith in Christ. It was from the same place that Paul, as a prisoner, was eventually transported to Rome, where he faced execution.

The Park offers both paid guided and self-guided tours that lead visitors through ancient structures dating back to the Roman Empire. Among these structures is a Roman Theater, where large gatherings took place, and which was unearthed during excavation efforts.

• The Banias Waterfalls: The Falls cascade down from Mount Hermon, the highest peak in Israel, and flow through the Banias Nature Reserve, eventually joining the Dan and Snir streams to form the Jordan River. It was a remarkable adventure, descending steep stairs to reach the falls, followed by the exhilarating hike back up with temperatures in the 90s.

• Mt Hermon: At an elevation of 9,232 feet above sea level, Mount Hermon straddles the border between Israel and Syria. One afternoon, we ventured to its foothills, capturing photos and enjoying coffee at the ski resorts despite the sweltering heat. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to ride the cable car to the summit, I imagine it would have been a delightful experience.

• Bethsaida is known as the hometown of Jesus’ disciples Philip, Andrew, and his brother Peter. It holds significance as the location where Jesus performed miraculous deeds, including walking on water, healing a blind man, and miraculously feeding a multitude of five thousand people with just two fish and five loaves of bread.

• Tiberias (Teveryah in Hebrew): Cited in John 6:23 as the departure point from which boats set sail in pursuit of Jesus, who had traveled to Capernaum following the miracle of feeding the five thousand with two fish and five loaves.

In the historic Old City of Tiberias, one evening we dined at the Hermitage restaurant, housed within a remarkable stone building that boasts over 800 years of history. This family-run restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which happens to be my absolute favorite. Despite my picky tastes, the flavors surpassed my expectations.

• The Jordan River: holds significant historical and religious importance, being the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus and where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land (Canaan) from Egypt. The area we visited is also a baptism site, though it’s not widely recognized as the location where Jesus was baptized. That distinction is typically attributed to a site farther south, closer to where the Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea.

• The Sea of Galilee: Also referred to as Lake Tiberias or Kinneret in Hebrew, the Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake on Earth. It stands as the second-lowest lake worldwide, situated approximately 600 feet below sea level. Our hotel, Galei Kinneret, located along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, provides captivating vistas that are simply breathtaking. This well and conveniently located resort allowed us to easily visit the Jordan River, Capernaum, Bethsaida, and other nearby tourist destinations.

• Capernaum (Kfar Nahum in Hebrew): situated on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum was a fishing village and thought to be the location where Jesus launched His ministry. It was within these historical grounds that He called Peter, John, James, Andrew, and Matthew to become His first disciples.

Our initial visit to the site was unexpectedly abbreviated due to my attire; I had unknowingly violated the strict dress code by wearing shorts and baring my arms, and I had forgotten my shawl. Despite scorching temperatures reaching 100 degrees, religious protocols remained steadfast. However, upon our return, we were able to fully appreciate the site, including a synagogue believed to be where Jesus first preached, what is thought to be the house of Peter, and the breathtaking panorama of the Sea of Galilee.

• Finally, Nazareth and Cana of Galilee: hold significant places in the life of Jesus. Nazareth was His hometown, where He spent His early years, while Cana was where He performed His first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding celebration. As we drove through the town, there wasn’t much in terms of visible historical landmarks, yet the experience of traversing through such a historically rich area felt deeply satisfying.

As a follower of Christ, my beliefs and faith are deeply rooted in the knowledge that much of Biblical history and the journeys of Jesus occurred on the very soil I walked on. This trip has been incredibly fulfilling for me. While I don’t subscribe to the belief that miraculous healings or mysterious transformations occur simply by stepping on this sacred ground, visiting this land and walking through its historical sites has long been a dream of mine. What an extraordinary experience!

Throughout the year, numerous domestic trips took us to various destinations such as Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, North Carolina, Chicago, and Virginia. However, international travel remained the top highlight. Like many end-of-year holidays, we cherished spending quality time with family, friends, and the dedicated staff and children part of my nonprofit, Rising Above the Storms in Rwanda. These moments are always cherished.

If money and time posed no limitations, I would go everywhere, to every corner, every culture, every hidden gem.

What about you? Have you traveled anywhere recently, or are there places you’re dreaming of visiting? Do you have a bucket list? Feel free to share in the comments below. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experiences! Wishing you a blessed day!