This entire trip was not supposed to happen, yet it did. Here I am, in southern California in the middle of 70-degree weather about to fly halfway across the world to the complete opposite. Sure…sounds like fun. If that were the case, I would have just gone back to Minnesota for the holidays. So why Budapest? My answer, “why not?” Within a few days, I was able to secure all necessary arrangements for my trip, including an emergency fund. On that note, as a service-connected veteran, I informed the VA to ensure that they could provide assistance in case of unforeseen circumstances. I also established a set of clear goals, as I wanted to make the most of the experience. This gave me a sense of purpose and clear intentions. I created a google maps list of places I wanted to explore and capture photos. I kept note of places I visited (or in passing) which I have listed at the end of this page for reference.

By the end of my trip, I walked a grand total of 32.02 miles (yes, I love to walk). I reflected on the entire experience during my 13-hour flight back to LA and set some new goals for myself. I came home feeling ready for 2024 and the new adventures ahead.

Where to next?