Continued travels in Chiang Mai, Thailand have reminded me that some of the best parts of traveling aren’t just the places—but the people you meet along the way.

On the plane, I met Roger from Houston, Texas, who was on his way to Chiang Mai to visit his fiancé, Can. A simple conversation turned into a meaningful reminder of how travel connects lives from completely different corners of the world.

During a cooking class, I also met Connor, a teacher from Auckland, New Zealand, and Eden. We ended up spending some more time together, exploring the nights in Chiang Mai, sharing stories, laughs, and perspectives that may only come from crossing paths far from home.

Being a social person, I truly value these connections. The friendships—whether brief or lasting—add depth to the journey and offer a wider perspective on how diverse, kind, and interconnected the world really is.

Onward to more adventures.