So, for a couple weeks now, I’ve been in the US catching up with friends and family that I haven’t seen for months. While I love visiting home for the summer, I’m excited to start high school and possibly experience some new countries and cultures this year. With that in mind, here are a few of the plans I have for the coming year!
Arcade, New York & Niagara Falls
Arcade is obviously not a common travel destination, however my mother grew up there. It’s a small town near Buffalo, which is very cold and snowy in the winter time. However, we’ll be there in the summer, so it should be warmer. My mom and I will be staying with a friend and our family will drive around and take a little tour of the town where they grew up.
In addition, we’ll be visiting the US side of Niagara Falls. I’ve never been there and I can’t wait! Hopefully, we’ll ride the Maid of the Mist and get some awesome photos!

Manila, Philippines
Last year, my school participated in the World Scholar’s Cup, a competition centered around learning and fun. My team (2 of my friends and I) did well enough in the regional round to qualify for a global round. Our school is sending those of us who are interested with chaperones to Manila in the fall, and I’m super excited!
Manila is the Capital of the Philippines and boasts a unique mixture of tall skyscrapers and Spanish Colonial architecture. Some famous sites include San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. I’m not sure what we’re going to see during our trip, but I’m sure we’ll have a good time no matter where we go! As we’re traveling in the fall, it hopefully won’t be too hot, although it is monsoon season, so I’m expecting high humidity (?).

New York, New York
I’ve travelled all around the world, but I’ve never been to NYC. I was there earlier in the summer around midnight for a few hours on my way home from China. My mom and I plan to see the Statue of Liberty, a broadway show, and the Brooklyn Bridge. We’ll also take a slavery tour and spend some time in the Dumbo neighborhood (a small district with cute cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and more).

Well, that’s all the plans I have for now. I’ll make sure to post pics and stories about each place, of course. Have an awesome day, you awesome people and sorry for the late post!