How I dedicated time to traveling during grad school.
Despite starting my first year of PA school in January 2024, I found plenty of time to travel both nationally and internationally. The first year of our program is structured into four blocks, each lasting 11-12 weeks, with no more than a week-long break after finals. These breaks became opportunities to relax, explore, and create lasting memories. Here’s a recap of my travels in 2024:
March: A Much-Needed Staycation
Our first break in March came after a whirlwind start to PA school. I decided to stay home and relax, catching up on rest and preparing for the next block. We enjoyed a quiet and peaceful Easter with my family.
June: A Sentimental Journey to France
Halfway through the program, I traveled to France with my grandmother and two sisters. This was my second visit to France; I first visited in the summer of 2019 with a study abroad program through my college. For my grandmother, who immigrated to the U.S. in her 20s, it was a particularly emotional trip. She hadn’t been back in over 10 years and considered this her final visit due to her age. We began in the south of France, spending a few days with her family and exploring the charming city of Lunéville. Then, we took the train to Paris, where we soaked in iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, and the Louvre.
From stunning architecture and artwork to exquisite food and cherished family time, the experience was unforgettable. French lifestyle—unhurried meals shared with loved ones, walkable cities, and a focus on enjoying the moment—left a lasting impression. The food was a highlight: fresh baked croissants, fruit, cheese, and wine. Every meal was a delight!
September: A Girls’ Trip to Fort Lauderdale
Our third break in September was shortened to half a week, but I made the most of it with a girls’ trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with my other grandmother. Although a hurricane on Florida’s Gulf Coast caused closures and sporadic rain, I enjoyed the hotel’s pool and beachfront when I could. I even managed to finish reading my book Amiga, Lávate Esa Cara (Girl, Wash Your Face) by Rachel Hollis. We also got to explore historic Bonnet house, Vizcaya Museum and gardens, the local farmer’s market, and all the shops of Las Olas Boulevard. It was a relaxing getaway despite the unpredictable weather.
November: A Surprise Weekend in Salt Lake City
In November, I surprised my boyfriend with a weekend trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, only needing to take one personal day from school. We saw his favorite country music artist on his final tour, went horseback riding in the mountains, visited Antelope Island to see the salt flats and bison, and learned about the Mormon pioneers’ westward expansion. It was a mix of adventure, music, and history.
December: Wrapping up in Lancaster, PA
Right after Christmas, we took a roadtrip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania— better known as Amish Country. The vast farmlands, modest lifestyle, and focus on family and hard work reminded my boyfriend of his days as a dairy farmer in his home country. We stayed at a bed and breakfast I visited as a child, where the owners still remembered us! Highlights included enjoying homecooked Amish food from the famous buffets and markets, a dairy farm tour, playing with animals at another farm, and exploring nearby Philadelphia on Sunday when Lancaster’s shops were closed.
In Philly, we toured Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were drafted and signed, and explored the Museum of the American Revolution, which houses George Washington’s wartime tent. It was inspiring to connect with American history and appreciate the nation’s founding.
Reflections and Plans for 2025
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences, family time, and memories made in 2024. With clinicals ahead, my travel schedule will likely be limited, but I’m still planning 2-3 trips in 2025—locations to be revealed later!
What was your favorite travel destination in 2024? Share in the comments; I’d love to hear about your adventures!
Health and Home by Haven 
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