Bucket List Kinda Trip!

In May of 2021, the world was still heavy on the COVID-19 restrictions, we embarked on a bucket list trip that would create memories to last a lifetime. From train rides through stunning landscapes to exploring vibrant cities and the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park to the Caribbean Islands, this girls' trip was a testament to the resilience and determination to make the most of every opportunity. Read about this amazing journey as we recount our experiences:

The Train Ride: St. Louis to Chicago to San Francisco

Our adventure began with a train ride from St. Louis to Chicago, where anticipation and excitement filled the air. After a brief layover in the Windy City involved the icon Bean and Nutella Cafe, we hopped onto the American Zypher, a magnificent train that took us on a 51-hour journey through breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic Rockies to the awe-inspiring desert, we were treated to panoramic views and a sense of tranquility that only train travel can provide. Despite living off of a couple of pastries, a small bag of Chex mix, and some water, we loved every minute of this 51-hour train ride.

San Francisco: An Unconventional City Experience

Upon reaching San Francisco, we encountered some unexpected hurdles. Our Airbnb plans fell through, forcing us to quickly find alternative accommodations. Despite this initial setback, we embraced the spontaneity of travel and booked a hotel near a convenient bus stop. San Francisco, like many cities during that time, was still navigating the challenges of the pandemic, resulting in strict COVID-19 regulations and a quiet atmosphere. However, this unique setting added a mysterious charm to our explorations. On the day we planned to dedicate to San Francisco, we embarked on an ambitious walking tour, determined to see as much of the city as possible while spending as little money as possible. Little did we know, it would turn out to be a true test of endurance. Covering a staggering 16-miles on foot, we found ourselves captivated by the city's iconic landmarks and mesmerizing sights. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf, we immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of San Francisco's culture and history. Unfortunately, the combination of the windy weather and lack of food took a toll on Leah, who almost fainted. This incident resulted from the lack of food - a theme throughout this epic travel experience.

Yosemite National Park: Nature's Majestic Retreat

Eager to experience the wonders of nature, we rented a car and embarked on a scenic drive to Yosemite National Park. However, before making our way to the park, we had to fulfill the necessary COVID-19 testing requirements at San Francisco Airport, which were mandatory for the latter portion of the journey - a visit to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). Once the tests were complete, we continued our journey, eagerly anticipating the natural splendor that awaited us. Yosemite definitely did not disappoint. Towering waterfalls, grand granite cliffs, and serene meadows greeted us at every turn. Hiking through the park's picturesque trails, we felt a deep connection with the natural world and a sense of rejuvenation. We even spotted some black bear cubs on one of our trail hikes. Approximately 30-minutes outside the park, we stayed the night in a small furnished tipi tent! Surrounded by the park's timeless beauty, we marveled at the wonders of the outdoors and forged memories that would forever be etched in our hearts.

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)

The final leg of our extraordinary journey took us to the pristine islands of St. Thomas and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). We soon caught on to the implied rule that happy hour starts at 10:00 a.m. as were were offered rum at this hour on multiple occasions. The island of St. John is where we truly found our Caribbean bliss. We spent a few nights at the Concordia Eco Resort, which turned out to be one of the best experiences of our lives. Still recovering from the hurricane that had struck the island, the resort offered affordable cottages, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the island's natural beauty without breaking the bank. Nestled on our private deck, overlooking the powerful ocean, we engaged in deep conversations involving shared dreams, laughter, and stories that will forever bind us together.

One particular morning stands out in our memories as we purposely rose early to witness a breathtaking sunrise. The sky transformed into a magnificent canvas, ablaze with vibrant hues of pink, orange, and gold. During our time on St. John, we fully embraced the island way of life. We swam in the crystal-clear ocean, immersing ourselves in its cool embrace. The soft sand of the beaches became our napping spot, where we surrendered to the gentle rhythm of the waves and the warmth of the sun. The island's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals added depth and richness to our experience, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the beauty and charm of island living.

As college students during a pandemic, this trip was a rare and truly cherished opportunity. We took the chance to create memories that will stay with us forever and are grateful for the experiences we had. The one lesson we learned while on this trip is to take every opportunity because you never know what adventure will appear!