What began as a work trip quickly turned into a whirlwind Asian adventure filled with bucket-list thrills.
When reading week rolled around, I found myself packing not just for a work trip but for an unexpected adventure. What started as a business-focused journey quickly spiralled into a whirlwind tour of Asia that had me ticking off bucket list items.
Between meetings and deadlines, I managed to sneak in some of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
Spoiler: this was no ordinary work trip—it was a thrill ride disguised as professional development.
Heatwave hug in Ho Chi Minh
Leaving behind the endless winter of home, I landed in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, ready to swap corporate emails for bustling street markets. The moment I stepped off the plane, the tropical heat hit me like a hug from the sun. Ho Chi Minh’s chaotic streets pulsed with life and I knew I was in for more than just boardroom banter.
By the time I reached the city center, I had fully embraced the tropical vibe. Mornings were for meetings, but afternoons were mine. I roamed through vibrant markets, lounged by the river and let the breeze erase every trace of winter. It was the perfect blend of work and play.
Wriggling wonder of live octopus in Gwangjang Market
After a long day of work and during a layover in Korea before flying back to Canada, I found myself in Gwangjang market, staring down a plate of Sannakji, a variety of hoe (raw dish) made with a live octopus…YES IT’S ALIVE!
This was an emotional experience. The octopus wriggled defiantly, its tentacles wrapping around my chopsticks as if to say, “Are you sure about this?”
The first bite was surreal: chewy, salty and a little too lively for comfort. But as I adjusted to the bizarre sensation, I realized I was having fun. By the end of the meal, I had not only conquered my culinary fears but also added “octopus wrangler” to my growing list of Asia triumphs.
High on life in Yangpyeong
The workdays were productive but I needed a grand finale. In Yangpyeong, I swapped my business attire for a harness and went paragliding over one of the most famous paragliding destinations in the world. It was a literal high point of my trip, 1000 meters high!
Soaring above the fall landscape, I felt an overwhelming sense of freedom. The world stretched out below me—yellow and green fields, sparkling ocean and tiny villages.
It was peaceful and exhilarating all at once, a stark contrast to the structured world of work. In those moments, I wasn’t just looking down at the world; I was looking at a new version of myself.
Serenity found in Seoul
Not every adventure involved chasing thrills or pushing boundaries. In Seoul, I found a serene escape along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, where an outdoor library became my go-to retreat after long workdays and meetings. The gentle sound of flowing water, the rustling of leaves and the distant hum of the city created the perfect atmosphere to unwind and recharge. Rows of books, neatly arranged under canopies invited passersby to pause and lose themselves in a story.
Each visit felt like a journey within a journey. I’d settle into a quiet spot, the day’s stress melting away as I flipped through the pages of novels, poetry or local history. On sunny afternoons, light filtered through the trees, casting a warm glow, while the crisp air on cooler evenings added a meditative quality to the experience. The setting offered a rare blend of urban energy and natural calm which made every moment feel special.
The outdoor library wasn’t just a place to read, it was a space to reconnect with myself, with nature and with the simple joys of slowing down. It reminded me that some of the best escapes don’t involve grand adventures but rather finding peace in the quiet, everyday moments.
What happens in Asia stays with you forever
What started as a work trip turned into a masterclass in adventure. From tropical heat to fighting live octopus, Asia didn’t just tick off my bucket list—it rewrote it.
Balancing work and exploration allowed me to experience the best of both worlds, seamlessly blending productivity with adventure. It wasn’t just about ticking tasks off a to-do list or visiting new places. It was about finding joy in the everyday and learning from every opportunity. Whether it was a quiet moment of reflection after a long day of work or an exhilarating trip to an unfamiliar destination, each experience added depth to my journey. The memories I created during this time, filled with laughter, growth and discovery, are ones I’ll carry with me for a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers both professional growth and personal thrills, Asia is your next stop. Just be prepared for your bucket list to get a little out of control.
Feature image courtesy of Jona Espejo.
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