I love to travel! All throughout high school, it was what I lived for. I planned my big summer cruise with my extended family all year long and as soon as got home from a trip, I’d start planning the next. I got into college with an essay about travel and adventure. I went to school on the other side of the country and then studied abroad once I transferred to somewhere closer to home.

Quarantine has been especially hard for the travel lover in me. But here are some of the trips I dreamed about before it all went south.

Cruise

The cruise industry has taken a big hit since COVID first started showing up in the news. Some analysts predict that it won’t be able to recover from this. But, cruising holds a special place in my heart, so I hope they’re wrong. Right now, my dream cruise is a stress-free, fun Caribbean trip with my boyfriend on Royal Caribbean. We both love the shows and games onboard, and Caribbean islands make perfect day trips. Sailing the Caribbean Sea with a drink I didn’t make myself in hand.

Asia and Australia

My dream graduation trip, which obviously can’t happen anymore, is a month long trip to the other side of the world. My first stop is Auckland, New Zealand. The pictures show the beautiful scenery this city has to offer. I also want to go zorbing.

Next, Sydney, Australia. Opera House, parks, markets.

Then, up to Asia. China specifically. I was born in Changzhou, China and adopted by my parents at 8 months. I have no memory of China, but I’ve always admired the pictures my parents took on their trip. I am interested in learning more about my Chinese heritage so why not do it there.

Finally, a relaxing trip to the French Polynesia to finish it off. Those picturesque huts on the water look like the most relaxing experience on earth. And after this long trip filled with sightseeing and walking, I’ll need it.

Hawaii

I went to Hawaii for my 18th birthday and it’s one of my favorite trips to this date. Incredible beaches, sunsets, dancing, shave ice, culture, luaus, hikes, and so much more. I went to Maui for a week, but I know that there are other islands and other things on Maui that I’ve yet to experience.

I can’t wait to see the world some more. To my next adventure: may you happen soon…