2010 marked an incredible turning point filled with adventure and change. At the time, I was working at Yahoo! and had been in a relationship with my boyfriend, Adam, for over three years. Adam, finishing up his MBA at USC, received a job offer in San Francisco. When he asked me to move with him, I didn’t hesitate—I was ready for a new chapter. Having spent my entire life in Southern California, the thought of exploring a new city was thrilling.
Before Adam started his new job in July, we realized we had a unique window of time to do something unforgettable. I planned to leave my job for the move, so we embraced this rare chance to go big—round-the-world-ticket big. We mapped out our route with the One World Alliance (American Airlines) and embarked on an ambitious 7-week journey, staying primarily in major hubs. In true explorer style, we covered over 17 cities and 12 countries in just 49 days.
As our whirlwind trip was winding down, Adam made it even more unforgettable by proposing. The rest of 2010 continued to be monumental: I landed an exciting role at Sephora HQ, and on December 31st, I celebrated my 30th birthday. It was the perfect way to end a decade marked by growth, adventure, and love.
Here’s a glimpse into our incredible 2010 summer travels!
Rio de Janiero, Brazil
Rio bursts with vibrant culture and breathtaking views. By day, we enjoyed sipping caipirinhas on the beach, and by night, we immersed ourselves in the energy of samba clubs. For an unforgettable experience, I highly recommend joining the locals to watch a fútbol (soccer) match at the stadium—it’s electric!
Santiago, Chile
Santiago is a modern, pristine metropolis boasting the largest metro system in South America. For panoramic views of the city, a visit to Santa Lucia Park is a must. Pair your exploration with Pisco Sours and indulge in a hearty Chilean feast. If you’re up for a short excursion, the nearby wineries are well worth the trip—we ventured to Pirque to sample the renowned Concha y Toro varietals.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is renowned for its passionate tango, succulent steaks, and rich Malbec wine. A visit to the iconic Recoleta Cemetery to see Eva Perón’s grave is a must, followed by a stroll through La Boca, a lively neighborhood brimming with street art and brightly colored buildings.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
Iguazú is an awe-inspiring destination, where the waterfalls span the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. We started our adventure on the Argentine side, where you can get up close to the thundering falls and even get soaked by the mist. On the second day, we explored the Brazilian side, which offers a more developed, tourist-friendly experience with well-marked paths and trams. This side provides a sweeping panoramic view of the falls, showcasing their full scale, though it lacks the up-close intensity of the Argentine side. Keep an eye out for the playful coatis that roam the park—they’re adorable but notorious for snatching food!
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is known for its stunning squares and lively nightlife. We explored the city on a bike tour, weaving through its lush parks and fascinating museums. One highlight was seeing the iconic Guernica at the Reina Sofía—it’s an impressive 25 feet wide and over 11 feet tall, and the impact is truly powerful. Our days seamlessly turned into late evenings filled with leisurely dinners and vibrant nights out. In true Spanish fashion, the city comes alive after afternoon siestas, transforming into a haven for night owls.
Rome, Italy
When it comes to sightseeing, Rome is unbeatable. From the iconic Colosseum and the majestic Trevi Fountain to the grandeur of Vatican City, the city is brimming with wonders. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, and savor late-night pasta and wine dinners as you soak in the timeless atmosphere of this historic city.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a stunning city, with its enchanting Castle District that feels like a scene from a fairy tale. The Danube River divides the city into two distinct parts: Buda, with its historic charm and rolling hills, and Pest, known for its vibrant energy and bustling streets.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is truly majestic, exuding a serene atmosphere with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and its iconic blue-domed architecture. We explored the island on scooters under sunny 80-degree weather and enjoyed delicious Mediterranean dinners. The highlight of our visit was a sunset cruise that took us around the volcanic islands—a magical experience we’ll never forget.
Athens, Greece
Athens is home to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel towering over the city, housing the ruins of several historically and architecturally significant buildings, with the Parthenon being the most iconic. After exploring this ancient marvel, make your way to The Plaka, where you can enjoy a rooftop dinner at sunset, with stunning views of the city below.
Agra, India
Delhi was truly an eye-opener. The city is densely populated, with traffic that’s chaotic and unlike anything I’ve ever seen—oxen, bike taxis, foot taxis, tuk-tuks, cars, and even malnourished cows wandering the streets. We didn’t book any tours in advance, so we navigated the city and its contrasts of wealth and poverty on our own. It was a raw and unforgettable cultural experience that left a lasting impression.
The Dead Sea, Jordan
The Dead Sea is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. We arrived on a scorching day, and the water felt warm and slick. The high salinity allows you to effortlessly float on the surface, like a cork bobbing or drifting on a raft. You can also indulge in buckets of mineral-rich mud, known for their therapeutic properties and skin benefits.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is absolutely surreal—a city intricately carved into the rock, nestled among mountains filled with hidden passages and gorges. As one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, it’s also featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. This is a place that absolutely belongs on your bucket list!
Jerusalem, Israel
Whether you’re religious or not, Jerusalem is a city that draws you in with its deep biblical history. We spent time exploring the Old City, taking in landmarks like the Mount of Olives, the Mary Magdalene Church, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of All Nations, and the Ascension Chapel. We also walked the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus took while carrying his cross to the site of his crucifixion. Our journey culminated inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where we stood at the spot of the Crucifixion, the place where Christ’s body lay, and finally, the tomb of Christ.
Boracay, Phillipines
Boracay offers a stunning and romantic backdrop. We stayed at Nami Resort, where our balcony provided the perfect view of the vibrant blue ocean. Our days were spent swimming in the crystal-clear waters, while evenings were dedicated to sipping cocktails as the sun set. Each night, the sunsets painted the sky with an unforgettable array of pinks, yellows, purples, and oranges. After a fun night out with fellow honeymooners, Adam surprised me by proposing as we walked hand in hand along the beach on our way back to the resort!
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a sleek city, with towering skyscrapers and a vibrant energy that pulses through its streets. Known for its mouthwatering dim sum, it also boasts a chic nightlife scene and an electric atmosphere that never slows down.
Are you planning a trip soon? These are some of my favorite sites for finding places to stay, booking tours, and more:
- Booking.com for the best hotel deals
- Get Your Guide to book a variety of tours and activities
- Expedia for flights, hotels, rental cars and more.
- Herschel for nice luggage that’s made to last
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