Embarking on a Journey: A Celebration of Achievement and Adventure

As promised, after my daughter’s remarkable academic journey and her acceptance into Tulane Medical School, we embarked on a voyage to commemorate her achievements and savor the moments before the demanding years of medical education began. Our journey spans continents and cultures, promising to be a tapestry of exploration, celebration, and reflection.

We begin on the tranquil shores of the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, where azure waters meet lush greenery, offering a serene backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. It is here we call home for 7 months a year since my retirement. From there, we make our way to Atlanta, Georgia, our pre-retirement home where my entire family grew up. Atlanta is a city teeming with history, culture, and Southern charm. Even after growing up in this city, we still enjoy exploring its vibrant neighborhoods and indulging in its culinary delights; we have and consider ourselves immersed in the essence of the South.

Next, we find ourselves in the soulful streets of New Orleans, Louisiana, where the rhythm of jazz and the aroma of Cajun cuisine fill the air. It’s a city steeped in tradition and resilience, a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. We are on a misson to find housing for our daughter and for her to attend meetings at the Medical School. After a long day of searching, we found a unit that would be perfect for her. Safe, clean, modern and gararge parking! Now that the mission is completed, we bid adieu to the Big Easy, we return briefly to Atlanta before setting our sights on the enchanting city of Doha, Qatar.

In Doha, we are greeted by a juxtaposition of ancient heritage and futuristic ambition. Skyscrapers stand tall against the backdrop of desert dunes, while traditional souqs offer glimpses into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. I still recall the vastness of the desert and the sole modern building, the Sheraton Hotel that was just completed before my first trip here almost 30 years ago. From there, we will jet off to the tropical paradise of Bali, where emerald rice terraces cascade down verdant hillsides and sun-kissed beaches beckon with their siren song.

Our journey continues to the pristine shores of Coron, Palawan in the Philippines, where crystal-clear waters and untouched landscapes await exploration. From there, we make our way to bustling Manila, a city that pulsates with energy and diversity, offering a tantalizing blend of history, culture, and cuisine.

Our voyage takes us to the vibrant port city of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, where modernity meets tradition in a seamless blend of skyscrapers and temples. From there, we journey to Keelung, a coastal gem famed for its bustling night markets and scenic beauty.

As we sail through the Ryukyu Islands, we stop at Naha Okinawa, Japan, where ancient castles stand as silent sentinels to a bygone era. Our journey through Japan takes us to Kagoshima, Osaka, Yokohama, Shimizu, Kobe, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Kanazawa, Akita, Aomori, Hakodate, and finally, Tokyo.

Each city offers its unique charm and allure, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil beauty of Hakodate’s cherry blossoms. Along the way, we savor the flavors of Japanese cuisine, immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and pay homage to the resilience and spirit of its people. Coming this far, I felt it important to also stop and visit Korea and the bustling energy found in Seoul.

Our journey will culminate back in Atlanta, Georgia, where I will reflect on the memories we’ve made, the lessons we’ve learned, and the bonds we’ve strengthened. It will be a voyage of discovery, celebration, and reflection—a journey that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

As I share our experiences and insights in the coming weeks, I invite you to join us on this adventure of a lifetime. Follow along on Besorah.org as we explore the beauty of our planet, the richness of its communities, and the diversity of its cultures. From breathtaking landscapes to mouthwatering cuisine, from ancient traditions to modern marvels, our journey promises to be a celebration of life, love, faith, and the pursuit of adventure and discovery.