2024 was a year of transformation for me, as it brought a pivotal career change that opened up opportunities to travel in a whole new way. No longer limited to trips to conferences, I found myself exploring destinations where I could deeply immerse myself in the history, culture, and essence of the areas I visited. This shift allowed me to not only satisfy my own curiosity, but also gain the knowledge needed to thoughtfully plan tours back to these places for others to experience.
Travel has a way of leaving a mark on your soul—a collection of moments and memories that shape how you see the world, and yourself within it. Looking back at 2024, I was fortunate to experience a year filled with rich cultural discoveries, scenic journeys, and heartfelt connections. From the bayous of Louisiana to the rolling landscapes of Italy, each destination taught me something new and meaningful.
Now, as I prepare for the adventures 2025 has in store, I want to share some highlights from last year’s travels and reflect on the road ahead.
Highlights from My 2024 Travels
Cultural Immersion in Cajun Country, Louisiana
2024 began with one of the most vibrant and moving experiences of my life—a familiarization tour of Cajun Country, Louisiana. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the warmth and hospitality of the people, who welcomed me with open arms and genuine smiles. The rich traditions of this region, from its flavorful cuisine to its infectious zydeco music, had me completely mesmerized. One of the highlights was visiting local communities where I witnessed how they honor their heritage in everyday life—through lovingly prepared dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, lively community gatherings filled with dancing and laughter, and heartfelt storytelling that keeps their history alive for future generations. I was inspired by their unwavering pride and commitment to preserving their culture while sharing it so generously with visitors like me. It’s a powerful reminder of the beauty that comes from embracing one’s roots and celebrating them with the world.
Italy with Family
A two-week family exploration of Italy was nothing short of unforgettable. We traversed iconic destinations, diving headfirst into the rich culture, history, and flavors that make this country so unique. In Rome, we marveled at the ancient Colosseum, strolled through the Roman Forum, and stood in awe beneath the grandeur of the Vatican's Sistine Chapel. Florence enchanted us with its Renaissance beauty, from gazing at Michelangelo's David to wandering the cobblestone streets and soaking in the art and architecture at every corner. Sorrento, with its stunning coastal charm, provided breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and we even took a day trip to the Amalfi Coast, where the picturesque towns seemed straight out of a postcard. Lastly, Sicily welcomed us with its vibrant lifestyle, where we enjoyed bustling markets, explored ancient ruins, and savored more authentic Italian cuisine than we thought possible. Whether it was walking through history, indulging in Neapolitan pizza, or simply sharing laughter over gelato, this trip brought my family closer together and gave us memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Cheyenne Frontier Days
Attending the “Daddy of ’em All” rodeo, Cheyenne Frontier Days, was an unforgettable experience and a thrilling reminder of the American West's proud traditions. The energy of the riveting rodeo events, with jaw-dropping bull rides and skilled barrel racers, was nothing short of electric. The atmosphere was alive with the sounds of country music during the lively concerts, and the cowboy culture was on full display, from the iconic hats and boots to the warm hospitality of everyone we met. This trip was a perfect blend of excitement, history, and community spirit—pure Americana at its finest.
Colorado’s Iconic Trains
All aboard! Spending a week in Colorado riding four iconic trains was nothing short of a dream for any railway enthusiast and a perfect indulgence for my love of slow travel. Each journey was a unique experience, offering dramatic views of Colorado's towering mountains, winding rivers, and vast canyons. The nostalgia-laced carriages, with their vintage charm and history, made every ride feel like a step back in time. From the rhythmic clatter of the wheels to the crisp mountain air streaming through the windows, these train rides allowed me to fully immerse myself in Colorado’s rugged beauty. It was a truly unforgettable way to explore the state at a pace that encouraged me to soak in every moment.
The Charms of Laurel, Mississippi
Fans of HGTV’s Home Town will know Laurel, Mississippi, as a small city with a big heart. Exploring its streets, where creativity thrives and southern charm prevails, felt like stepping into a picture-perfect postcard. Seeing firsthand how a community reinvents itself with grit and grace was one of this year’s unexpected delights.
Huntsville, Alabama and the Space and Rocket Center
Visiting Huntsville and its legendary U.S. Space and Rocket Center was truly awe-inspiring. Standing beside the towering Saturn V rocket, I couldn’t help but feel humbled by the sheer scale of human ingenuity and determination. Exploring the exhibits, I learned about the incredible milestones of space exploration, from the Apollo missions to the ongoing efforts to reach deeper into the cosmos. It left me in awe of human potential, ambition, and the collaborative effort it takes to push the boundaries of what’s possible. It was a powerful reminder of how curiosity and innovation can propel us to achieve the extraordinary.
Myrtle Beach Familiarization Tour and Christmas Tour
While I live close to Myrtle Beach, it was a treat to be a tourist in my own backyard. Myrtle Beach proved to be more than just a sun-and-sand destination. Unique stops like the Colored School and Charlie’s Place gave me glimpses into its layered cultural heritage and history. These hidden gems added depth to this Coastal South experience.
Million Dollar Melodies Tour
This musical tour covering Nashville, Memphis, and Branson was nothing short of magical, a journey through the heart of America’s music history. In Nashville, we stepped into the iconic Ryman Auditorium, often called the “Mother Church of Country Music,” where the echoes of legendary performances still resonate. Memphis brought its soulful energy, from live blues on Beale Street to the deep cultural significance of Sun Studio, where rock 'n' roll was born. Branson's vibrant theaters were alive with spectacular shows, celebrating a wide range of genres and talent. A truly unforgettable highlight was meeting descendants of music legends Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Hearing their stories gave us a personal and intimate connection to the rich history of music, adding a deeper layer of appreciation to this incredible experience. This tour was a celebration of music's power to inspire, connect, and bring people together.
Thanksgiving in New York City
Spending Thanksgiving in New York City was truly magical, even with the rainy weather adding a challenge to things. The trip was packed with unforgettable moments, starting with a hop-on-hop-off tour that took us past iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Central Park. One of the highlights was seeing a Broadway show—I was completely blown away by the talent and energy on stage. Another unforgettable experience was attending the Radio City Christmas Extravaganza featuring the Rockettes; their precision and festive spirit were absolutely breathtaking. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was a highlight as well, bringing the holiday spirit to life with its enormous balloons, marching bands, and colorful floats. The city's festive window displays and sparkling holiday lights made every corner feel magical, from Fifth Avenue to Bryant Park. It was such an incredible experience, filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable sights, and I’m already counting down the days until I can return!
Nashville at Christmas
Although Nashville still feels like home in many ways, there’s something uniquely magical about being there at Christmas. Nowhere captures the holiday spirit better than the Gaylord Opryland Hotel, with its breathtaking lights and festive atmosphere. From dazzling displays to joyful concerts steeped in Southern charm, Nashville at Christmas exudes warmth and wonder. Strolling through its beautifully decorated streets, surrounded by the glow and cheer of the season, reminded me why this city remains so special in my heart.
Excitement for 2025
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be equally exciting, with destinations like Palm Springs, San Diego, Iceland, Scotland, Philadelphia, Mackinac Island, and Baton Rouge on my radar. It’s shaping up to be a year of broadening horizons, with a mix of international adventures and destinations rich in history and unique charm.
What’s Next?
Each of my 2024 adventures taught me valuable lessons about the importance of connection—whether with loved ones, strangers, or even ourselves. I’m excited to carry these lessons into 2025, where new destinations await, each with its own story to tell and world to discover.
For my fellow travel enthusiasts, particularly those who love cultural exploration and group travel, I hope my reflections inspire you to dream big and pack your bags. Stay tuned for follow-up posts where I’ll take you inside each of my 2024 adventures in more detail.
Where are you planning to go next? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear about your travel dreams for 2025! 🌍