This weekend was a lovingly and joyously a bit atmospheric transporting me back to some unforgettable trips I have taken in the past. In being so transported, I dreamt of travel and longed to pack my suitcase and go somewhere. Anywhere. Well, not exactly anywhere. But almost anywhere.

A few years ago, we traveled to Hong Kong. And, it was a most fabulous trip despite the less-than-ideal weather. I tend to rarely travel to a place during peak season. I go off-peak so that I can supposedly have a more authentic experience (which I myself am not too sure I entirely buy that perspective)  and so that I can save money.  Honestly, I think my trip to Berlin during Christmas was absolutely beautiful and worth it despite my frostbite.   I am only slightly exaggerating on the frostbite. I am not meant for harsh winter conditions. My son, on the other hand, just found the extreme cold to be refreshing. He enjoyed it thoroughly, I loved the Christmas markets, and the trip was nearly free for us.  You can’t beat that. Travelling at anytime is a good activity to undertake.

But back to Hong Kong. We went in April and it was a bit foggy.  We went on a Sunday to see a giant Buddha and couldn’t see it even standing right next to it. That in itself was kind of thrilling. And spooky.

We found the experience beautiful as well. I suppose I find value in every experience whether conditions are ideal or not. And, if you have a similar disposition then the world is yours for the taking.

 “Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” – Anthony Bourdain