Letter from the editor

From a young age, I dreamed of traveling the world. Hearing stories of backpackers wandering through Europe, crossing continents by train, or climbing mountains to witness breathtaking vistas only deepened my fascination. Every adventure I encountered fueled a longing to one day embark on a journey of my own.

As I grew older, however, I realized that pursuing such a dream is rarely as simple as it seems. Looking back, I often wish I had started traveling sooner. Perhaps I would have experienced more of the world before life’s responsibilities settled onto my shoulders. Too often, those responsibilities become excuses that keep us from chasing the dreams we’ve held onto for years.

One of my childhood friends began his journey much earlier. By his twenties, he had explored countries throughout Europe, traveled across the United States, and discovered remarkable destinations throughout Asia. In recent years, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of witnessing the Northern Lights. Today, he lives in the United Kingdom, where the opportunity to explore neighboring countries has become even more accessible. His journey is a reminder that dreams become reality when we choose to take the first step.

Saint Augustine once wrote, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” Those words have stayed with me over the years. The thought of remaining in one place, never venturing beyond our comfort zone, feels like missing countless chapters waiting to be discovered. Traveling broadens our perspective, introduces us to new ways of thinking, and reminds us that while every culture is beautifully unique, many share the same core values. Time and again, we see that family, community, and the pursuit of a meaningful life transcend borders. There is a quiet beauty in the simple moments that generations have cherished long before us.

In this annual Travel Issue, we invite you to journey with us once again through the eyes of passionate travelers. Each story offers a unique perspective, thoughtfully captured with intention and care. From the turquoise shores of Thailand to the peaceful landscapes of Russia’s Southern Ural region—and everywhere in between—these pages offer more than beautiful destinations. They remind us of the wonder that awaits beyond the familiar.

Perhaps this issue will inspire your next adventure. Dreams are rarely fulfilled by waiting. They begin with a single decision, a willingness to take that first step, and the courage to trust that the road ahead will unfold into something even greater than we imagined.

Francis Wong

Editor-In-Chief