Ever since I can remember, I’ve been filled with wanderlust. In fact, some of my earliest and most precious memories revolve around traveling. Naturally, one of those memories is of a trip to Disney World when I was about four years old. I remember being so excited to board the plane and fly, to see something new. I had just come out of an asthma attack when we were heading to the airport yet all I could think about was my eagerness to travel.
Learn what sparked Nikki’s love of travel
I have my mom to thank for my travel spark. She would bring my sister and I along on trips all across the country for work conferences. Soon enough, I was doing my own searching for conferences and convincing my mom to attend just so I could tag along. I was always on the lookout for conferences near Disney World. I hold Disney especially close to my heart because Ryan proposed to me at Epcot on his first ever visit there. We also had a Disney wedding where I got my most treasured souvenirs: his Mickey ears top hat and my Minnie ears veil!
Find out what Nikki’s favorite travel souvenirs are!
No matter where I end up, I get to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Travel has expanded my worldview and my social circle. I’ve met some of my longtime friends from traveling and I’ve gotten to deepen my existing relationships from experiencing new places together. I also love to travel because vacation is all about taking a break and letting go of everyday responsibilities. After a year stuck inside, it’s incredibly freeing to set aside time to explore and enjoy yourself.
My wanderlust continues despite the circumstances. Now that it’s been a year since the start of the pandemic, I’ve had a chance to reflect on what a balancing act it’s been between my desire to travel and my need for safety. This past year was an emotional rollercoaster. I’ve had to consider whether the trips I was planning for the year were worth the potential exposure for me, my family, and those around us. I kept my trips within the U.S. and was pleasantly surprised by the smart adjustments made by the airport, air lines, hotels, and resorts. Thank goodness for hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes! Even the rental car process was different. This whole experience has shown me that even though things are different, different doesn’t mean bad.
How does one balance wanderlust and safety in a pandemic world?
COVID-19 may have altered my 2021 travel bucket list but it didn’t get rid of it! I keep travel plans realistic by keeping up with safety guidelines and planning accordingly. I intend on making both domestic and out of the country trips. Everything about Hawaii has been calling me back to its gorgeous shores. All I want is to feel the sun on my face and the waters flowing around me. Also, nothing in Michigan could possibly compare to the food in Hawaii. It’s all unbelievably fresh, from the fish to the fruit. I especially love their sushi. Outside of the U.S., I’ve been itching to get back to Mexico. For a while, I’ve had my eye on Xel-Há Park. It’s an adventure park where you can bike, jump off cliffs, and ride river tubes! I’m looking forward to riding a golf cart all around Isla Mujeres for a mix of relaxing and fun. I returned from Disney World and Universal Studios not too long ago but I absolutely plan on making it back there one more time this year.
Determining when you’re comfortable traveling is a super personal decision and one that I don’t want to force you into. I’m always available to talk over your concerns, answer any questions, and get you excited about your future travels!
