Wow. What a trip.
This was my first time traveling to Asia and somehow, it exceeded all of my expectations.
For years now, I have been saving every reel and picture of travel destinations that have crossed my Instagram feed in the hopes that I will one day be able to see all of it for myself.
In Singapore, I drank dragon fruit tea in Chinatown, licked chrysanthemum-flavored ice cream, sipped out of a coconut, and ate Michelin-star chicken and rice and prata at hawker centers. In Bali, I drank mojitos of every flavor in an infinity pool, had wagyu steak for the first time, and tried deluxe tea at a tea garden.
I saw some spectacular views from rice terraces, to sunsets over the ocean, beautiful waterfalls, and temple walls crawling with monkeys. I got a glimpse of the Singaporean jungle, as seen from the treetops, and the forests of Bali from a glass bridge.
The Tegenungan waterfall in Ubud was my favorite part of the trip, followed closely by the swing ride I took in a flowy red dress.
I bought many red dresses, silver jewelry, and some inauthentic, but pretty artwork, all of which I have hauled back to the states.
In Singapore, the air was fresh and hot at all times and the feeling of being there was indescribable. Bali was a tropical paradise with a bustling urban center that lives up to its name the island of the gods.
I realize how lucky I am to have been able to travel so widely so early in my life (or at all). I know that so few people in the world get this opportunity and if you’re lucky enough to travel, then you’re lucky enough.
One day, I might learn how to surf and return to Bali, but until then, I’ll have the memories that I made walking down a stretch of beach in Bali with my aunt.
Thank you to my aunt and uncle for hosting me. It was truly the trip of a lifetime.
I want to go back to both Singapore and Indonesia in the fullness of time and experience more of what these great countries have to offer, but in the meantime, I will be returning to my life in New York City, ready for more American adventures.
The Tragic Queen,
Raquel
P.S.: Check out how I spent my favorite day in Bali
The Tragic Queen 