The Great Pause on the Globe
It’s been roughly a year and a half since the last time we slipped on some airline shoes for pure leisure, and guess what? The itch to roam is still rock‑solid.
But boy, the travel bubbles that popped like soap bubbles have left us staring at the same dusty passports that never quite found a family. New outbreaks in places that used to be our “Safe Zone” mean that the next trip might need a 2‑step password reset.
- 2019 Memories: sun on the beach, waves, and a souvenir shop that never showed up next to the airplane.
- 2020 Realities: mask‑filled group chats about flights that turned into travel‑vacations videos.
- 2021‑2022: the “could‑not‑do‑it‑anymore” vibes of air travel that turned into a mycelial career supporting “stay‑at‑home” adventures.
We might not be able to ring our doors and let them open to the bright, bustling aviary of wanderers soon, yet there’s a tiny comfort in nostalgic tales. Let’s keep reminiscing during this crack‑in‑the‑world period, and once the chaos wraps up, we’ll suddenly feel like smooth‑jet streamlined dreamers ready for our next flight.
Disrupted plans
When Travel Dreams Turned Into Travel Panic
Our “Festive” 2020 Plans
We were all set for two fun get‑aways to cheer on my partner’s graduation—just the perfect way to say “goodbye world” before the new chapter. But then Singapore dropped the first Covid‑19 case, and our itinerary vanished faster than a magician’s trick.
The Cancel Bonanza
For a few frantic weeks we were on a frantic “flight‑chan‑cer‑drop” spree, trying to shoot up cancellations for airlines and Airbnb spots. We thought we’d lose a tidy $2,500 and had to be ready for that financial heartbreak.
- Everything looked bleak: The worry that refunds wouldn’t materialise was real.
- What happened: In the end, most platforms stepped up and hand‑ed us the full refunds, so we were lucky to cash out.
- Friends’ misfortunes: Some buddies who’d splurged on exchange trips clawed at their wallets and found themselves stranded overseas with no way back home.
What Our Colleagues Tell Us
Kimberly Lim shares a touch of lightness in the chaos:
“We were casually planning a trip for November 2020 as one of us was about to get married. We were just casually indulging before the big life decision. Luckily, we hadn’t booked anything concrete because Covid‑19 hit. The wedding got postponed too, so we can still plan a celebratory trip once the situation improves.”
Takeaway
While we emerged relatively unscathed, the pandemic tested our flexibility, taught us the value of cancellations, and reminded us that travel plans are never sacred—just a bit fragile and easily improvable. The lesson? Always double‑check for refunds before you let your adventure slip away.
Jannah’s Postgrad Travel Saga
Original Plan (Spoiler: It’s a Travel Tale)
Picture this: Jannah was all set to kick off her graduation vibes by trekking from the romantic streets of Paris straight to the historic alleys of Prague. The dream was as pure adventure as a winding European train ride, and the itinerary? Uncharted freedom.
Reality Check: That Got a Bit…Hilarious
Life had other plans. She realized she’d just been floating in a no‑booking zone—so no ticket drama! Had she already locked in travel, the sky could’ve turned from dreamy to a total “I can’t believe this!” kind of heartbreak.
Going Solo? … Maybe?
Her big question: “Who’s in for this epic trek?” If nobody wanted to join, she’d still pack her backpack and roll solo. Picture her grinning at the empty seat and thinking, “Just me, world, you’re about to get no show!”
Relief & The Power of Not Over‑Planning
The silver lining? With no bookings yet, there were no jaw‑breaking baggage costs or meticulous schedules to drag her into a loop of disappointment. She could keep her mind light, open to the possibility of a spontaneous travel buddy popping into the picture.
Takeaway: Keep It Loose and Fun
So the lesson? Playing it safe by keeping plans flexible is the breeze in your back pocket. Who knows—maybe next time her golden ticket comes, you’ll be the one that says, “Sure, let’s rock that Paris‑to‑Prague route!”
Lynette’s Grand Adventure Plan
“I was supposed to go to Okinawa with my girlfriends after I had finished my studies in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine). I was also planning on going to Bali alone and I even took an advanced diving license in 2019 so I could go diving with the manta rays in 2020!”
What’s in the Stack?
- TCM Graduate – She wrapped up her Chinese medicine school like a pro, ready to heal the world or at least her weekend brunch curves.
- Okinawa Crew‑Trip – The dream was to hop over to the Ryukyu islands with her best mates, snorkel in turquoise waters, and laugh until the shorelines shook.
- Solo Bali Escape – Calling the beach solo adventure was her way to flex the “me time” muscles, practice yoga on the sand, and raid every dessert shack.
- Advanced Diving License – 2019 saw her snag the license, and the 2020 plan was to swim with manta rays—those big, friendly sea turtles that have against the idea of humans showing up without lunch.
Dreams That Dip ‘n Swing
Picture Lynette: a newly minted Chinese medicine master, a backpack full of herbs, and a calendar full of freedom. She had plotted it all out: the calm of Okinawa, the laughter of Bali, and the high packet of excitement for a manta-ray swim. If life were a GPS, her route would have been “Asia: Fun, Food, and Fish!”
Why the Crew‑Trip Needed a Crew
Okinawa’s islands are laid-back, but traveling with friends fuels the mood. Friendships are the best souvenir—no souvenirs can depresiate a group chat powered by each other’s jokes and shared adventure photos.
Bali Solo: Me, My Things, and My Smile
Solo trips polish the soul, brushing off the everyday duds. One minute Lynette’s strolling down Kuta Beach, the next she’s sampling fresh tropical pizza—viva la solo life!
2020: Manta Rays Edition
The year she finally wanted to get under the ocean, breathe with manta rays, and say “hello” to a giant that metaphorically says: “Okay, you’ve got to be more than a joke to swim with me.” The advanced license was the golden ticket—no, not Disney. It gave her the inside scoop for safe underwater adventures.
How Plans Meet Reality
Plans are like the weather—both have hidden variables. While the roles of her voyage displayed ambition, lanterns, and a sprinkle of daring, the reality turned out to be a bit different. Still, the dream brings charm to her story, proving that ambitions aren’t just numbers on a checklist—they’re feelings, laughter, and an undersea curriculum.
So let’s raise a glass to Lynette’s future expedition dreams—because if she can finish her TCM studies and still aim for manta-rays, who says you can’t swim and heal at the same time?
Reminiscing about our most memorable trips
Our First Trip to Japan — A Tale of Tears and Sake
For a few months I sidestepped scrolling through old travel pics and vids, half‑thinking they’d sting with the memories of places we never got to explore. Now, I flip through them with a grin, and my boyfriend and I often dive in together when a wave of nostalgia hits.
What Makes This Trip Stand Out?
- Mount Fuji: A few days near the iconic peak, where I burst into tears when I finally met my travel‑partner in the real world.
- Politeness & Culture: The locals are unbelievably courteous—every polite nod feels like a welcome hug.
- Scenic Beauty: From cherry blossoms to misty hills, the vistas were straight‑out breathtaking.
- Food Fiesta: Sushi, ramen, tempura—each bite felt like winning the jackpot.
- Heated Toilet Bowls: A life‑changing comfort that made me feel like a superhero in the bathroom.
We spent a chunk of change—thousands of dollars—on this adventure, but every single cent was worth it. No regrets, just pure joy.
What My Friends Say
They keep laughing, but they’re also heart‑warmingly proud of those whirlwind memories. Their words tell me I’ve made the right flags to follow on my next journey.
South Island Road Trip
Picture this: A two‑week adventure across New Zealand’s South Island, packed into a rented camper van and my grandma’s budget. It turned out to be the most unforgettable experience I’ve ever had.
Why This Trip Stands Out
- Budget‑friendly bliss: Camping under the stars, cooking over a portable stove, and still seeing the world’s best scenery.
- Blues that wow: Every glimmering lake seemed like a piece of the sky itself.
- Peak perfection: The mountains weren’t just mountains—they were a passport to heaven on earth.
- Family fun: Driving as a trio of parents and a kid, swapping stories with seat‑belt laughter and the occasional “who’s the fastest” challenge.
Highlights of the Journey
1⃣ Milford Sound – The fjord’s dramatic cliffs made even the GPS jealous.
2⃣ Aoraki/Mount Cook – Trekking here felt like walking on the tips of the world’s tallest peaks.
3⃣ Queenstown – An adrenaline playground with nothing but a camper van’s tiny bathroom as your pit stop.
4⃣ Kaikoura – Whale‑watching that turns your front seat into a front‑row theater.
Final Thought
It was less about the places, and more about the moments we shared—dodging rain, laughing at the van’s creaking engine, watching the Northern Lights paint their own story across the night sky. If you’re ever craving a road trip that feels like a vivid dream, this South Island adventure will definitely earn your bragging rights.
My Most Memorable Trip: Stuttgart, Germany
Picture this: I packed my bag, traded the familiar smell of kaya toast for the cozy aroma of German sausages, and landed in Stuttgart. A summer exchange program turned out to be the adventure I never knew I needed.
What I Craved Most
- The local cuisine – I was hungry for flavors that were completely foreign to my Singaporean palate.
- Side-by-side comparison – I constantly wondered if a Neapolitan pizza from Naples could truly beat the Tony‑Snyder’s version I’d tasted in Singapore.
- Food experiments – From the hearty Weißwurst to the seductive Black Forest cake, every bite felt like a new chapter in a culinary diary.
Why I Thought Snacks Were the Real Treasure
It wasn’t just about eating; it was about discovering culture through taste. I found myself measuring sweetness levels and crust thicknesses, noting that a single slice of pizza can tell a whole story about its homeland.
Sharing the Experience
When back home in Singapore, I’d brag about how the Stuttgart pretzel was fluffier than any I’d ever had, or how the Dill‑creamed pork could rival any “street food” in my city. The point? Food is the passport that lets us taste the world.
Vietnam Vibes: A Week of Food, Fun, and Free‑Spirit
Picture this: seven sunny days in Vietnam, a backpack at my feet, and a mouthful of memories that still tickle the taste buds. My itinerary was simple, spontaneous and downright delicious.
Core Philosophy
When the road calls, I pour my soul into good food. No fancy itinerary, just an agenda of:
- Sun‑drenched walks through bustling streets.
- Seafood barbecues that sizzle right on the sidewalk.
- Fresh bowls of pho that get you back in the moment.
Highlights
Every evening, the local stalls came alive. The aroma of grilled shrimp, crab and the sweet scent of lemongrass pushed the crowd to dance. I tasted broth that melted into a warm hug, honeyed with spices that whispered stories of the past.
Why It’s A Game‑Changer
Travelling is like a buffet of experiences, but when you’re in Vietnam the menu is a musical festival of sensations. The city pulse, the communal feel, the shared plates – it’s a reminder that the best moments are the ones you don’t plan.
So if you’re on the hunt for the best travel adventure, grab a pint of local lager, a plate of fresh seafood, and let the flavors and moments giddy up your journey.
Why Travel Memories Stick Around Like Super Glue
Tan Thiam Peng’s Take on the Everlasting Charm of Journeys
Ever wondered why a snapshot of a sunrise or a quirky street sign can stick in your mind for years? Tan Thiam Peng nails it: “Almost every travel memory is memorable now.” Let’s break down what that means for your own adventures.
- Instant Gratification: The surge of adrenaline when you board a plane or jump into a scenic lake is a golden ticket for long‑term recall.
- Curiosity Magnet: New sights and sounds light up your brain’s novelty detectors—making later reminiscing a natural treat.
- Feeling Power: Emotions tied to sights—whether awe or “nah, I totally overpaid for that hotel”—anchor memories like magnets on a fridge.
How to Turn Every Trip into a Treasure Trove
Got a way to keep memories fresh? Try this:
- Write a quick line in your journal right after you hit the hotspot.
- Snap a photo with a goofy caption—laughter is the best memory enhancer.
- Share a small detail with a travel buddy; storytelling makes the memory stickier.
Wrap‑Up
So next time you’re checking off your bucket list, remember Tan’s mantra. Every snapshot, every giggle, every unexpected gust of wind—those little moments are already sewed into your mind’s fabric. Just keep enjoying the ride, and the memories will keep on rolling in!
Still waiting for the day we can scratch things off our bucket list
Lost Passport, Still Dreaming
Picture this: I’ve gone on a quest for my passport—turns out it’s hiding in the same spot as my keys, probably. Oops. Yet I keep filling out that endless list, hoping the world will be open enough for me to finally hop on a plane.
- Paris – the city of love and croissants
- Tokyo – neon lights and sushi dreams
- New Zealand – lush landscapes and adventure hangs
- South Africa – game‑watching and safari tales
- Norway – fjords that bite at your imagination
Because, if there’s anything that keeps me sane, it’s the vision of a passported passport. Until borders open (and my passport shows up), I’ll keep pretending I’ve got all the travel cards, with a grin and a splash of hope.
My Japan Quest & Disney Dash
After that first trip to Japan, I could see my eyes wide open and my heart doing cartwheels—the country had captured me! Now I’m on a mission to drop a pin in every one of those 47 prefectures before the big bug pays the final dividend.
1⃣ Why Japan? Why Now?
- Instantly fell in love with the blend of ancient temples and neon street food.
- Every visit felt like a new chapter in a manga—the plot got wilder with each place.
- “Nervous but exhilarated” is how I describe the thrill of stepping into a new city.
2⃣ My Disneyland Dream
Can’t forget the glitter‑glam of Disney magic. The plan? Hit all six flagship parks—from Florida’s Magic Kingdom to Tokyo’s unmistakable skyline.
- Hong Kong’s whoop‑worthy roller coasters that keep my breakfast on standby.
- Paris’s quintessential charm where I’ll do a little “French-speak” along the Seine.
- Asia’s own fairy tale in LA—yes, it’s a little more American.
- San Diego’s classic showdown, forever a “sun‑shine perhaps?”
3⃣ The Singapore Gap
“Hey, what about Singapore?” the locals ask, because—spoiler alert—they have no Disneyland in the mix. No problem. I’ll keep tabs on any future plans staring the fabulous skyline.
What My Colleagues Say
They call it “ambitious” and “quirky. Some suggest I pair a travel journal with a laugh track, just to keep the journey lively.
Bottom line: this is not just a bucket list—it’s a personal adventure anthem I’ll sing to the rhythm of Tokyo’s rail, the fireworks in Hong Kong, and the iconic “Mickey” silhouette across the globe!
Travel Dreams in the Age of FOMO
Kwok Kar Peng
Dream Highlights:
- Japan – the enchanting Hiroshima and Nagasaki
- Ancient wonders – Pompeii and the Egyptian pyramids
- China’s historical gem – Xi’an
Lynette
Bucket List Quest:
- Okinawa – searching for the secret recipe to living forever
- Spin the world’s backdrop: Bali for manta‑ray dives, Machu Picchu for mountain‑talk, and Mongolia with the iconic Trans‑Mongolian Railway ride
Kimberly
Family First:
- Prioritise Malaysia as soon as the virus lull clears
- Miss family dearly – it’s been roughly two years since a family reunion
- Excited about cousin’s baby but still yet to meet the tiny menace!
- Social media keeps the connection buzzing, but the FOMO (fear of missing out) is hitting hard
The silver linings
Stuck at Home, But Not Stressed Out
When the world turned upside‑down, I was one of those who’d felt the sting of a “travel‑boom” that ended up being a bit of a burnout nightmare. But let’s be real—staying put for a year had its own set of perks, and I’ve decided to brag about them.
Why a Year‑Long “Break” Feels Like a Hidden Treasure
- Get Cozy with Your Backyard: The city skyline that once felt ordinary suddenly gleams with newfound wonder. Or the quiet canal that runs beside the park that’s now your personal escape route.
- Dump the FOMO: No longer obsessing over friends who’ve hit the “next ‘must‑see’” list. Instead, you’re taking seriously that you’re not chasing a missing piece that’s just— you missing.
- Lift Your Wallet: You’re no longer splashing $2,000–$3,000 on every new adventure. That money? Patience, investing, a nice rainy‑day savings account.
- Feel the Fresh Air, Literally: Less carbon footprint means gentler weather for everyone. Small changes that matter big.
What My Colleagues Say About It
— Jannah: “The main perk for me is the appreciation of the little things in your home country that you’d take for granted otherwise, like the city skyline or the peaceful canal by your neighbourhood park connector. Those things at your doorstep that can actually bring you just as much of an escape or breath of fresh air.”
— Kimberly: “Besides a lower carbon footprint, I’ve also managed to save up. I used to spend at least $2,000 to $3,000 traveling each year.”
— Lynette: “All my extra money went towards investing (like, who am I even?!)”
Bottom Line
Long‑term travel can be a burnout trap, and hey, so can FOMO. Slowing down gave me space to notice the tiny wonders right next door, keep my wallet a little fuller, and being kinder to the planet. Instead of wondering what’s next, I’m focusing on what’s already within reach. That, in my smartest opinion, is the ultimate travel, eh?
What will be the ‘new normal’ for travelling in the future?
Covid‑19 Is Finally Becoming Our New Sidekick
Scientists are whispering that the ever‑present Covid‑19 might just “settle in” like the neighbor who never stops humming. It’s not the juiciest headline, but we’re all about that life—adapt, thrive, and maybe throw in a snarky meme or two.
What This Means for the Jet‑Setters
- Expect more paperwork than a passport‑to‑Spanish‑speaking bank account signup.
- Booster shots will be as common as souvenir coffee mugs—especially if you’re heading overseas.
- Even if masks aren’t a legal requirement, you’ll probably do it anyway just to look like a responsible globe‑traveler.
So yeah, if you’re planning your next adventure, think of it as a “travel challenge” rather than a simple trip.
What My Friends Are Saying
- Jannah: “Picture this—sanitisation stations everywhere. Instead of a metal detector scanning for steel, you’re getting a spray‑of‑finesse of disinfectant. It’s clinical, it’s quirky, and it keeps you feeling twenty‑seven!”
- Kar Peng: “The new normal will be a mash‑up of regular boosters, mandatory masks on planes, and a one‑year vacation ban. And I’m short‑changing Europe, the USA, and maybe even Australia because of anti‑Asian vibes—yikes!”
- Thiam Peng: “Travel won’t shut down entirely. We’ll get ‘safe routes’ that hand out the sort of quarantine—if any—based on herd immunity statistics, not sheer panic.”
- Olga Bessarab: “Got it. Masks everywhere, traveller nerves signed off, and no more overcrowded immigration checkpoints. It’s a new existence on the world’s roads.”
Bottom Line
Covid‑19 might be a long‑term roommate—unwanted but inescapable. Let’s turn the situation into a fun, resilient, and somewhat comedic adventure. Adventure is just a boost, a mask, and a healthy dose of “what if?”
