Tag: travel

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North America

A Four-Day Orlando Adventure: Universal Studios and Walt Disney World

We just wrapped up a whirlwind four-day, adventure-packed weekend at Universal Studios Florida and Walt Disney World, and while we are completely exhausted, we are also incredibly grateful for the memories we made along the way.

Day One and Two: Universal Studios and Epic Universe

We kicked things off at Epic Universe and went all in. We rode everything and soaked up the excitement of exploring a brand-new park. From there, we headed to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, where we hit all the classic favorites. Harry Potter, Velocicoaster, Hagrid’s roller coaster, and more delivered nonstop thrills and plenty of smiles.

Between parks and rides, we enjoyed some surprisingly great food. One night we ordered Uber Eats from a Peruvian restaurant and another from a pizza place. Both were excellent and honestly hit the spot after long days on our feet.

Day Three: EPCOT and Hollywood Studios

On day three, we shifted gears and entered Disney mode. Our first stop was EPCOT, where we rode Guardians of the Galaxy and the classic attraction inside the big sphere about people, history, and communication. It is one of those rides that always feels timeless and meaningful.

Later that day, we moved on to Hollywood Studios and packed in as much as we could. Rise of the Resistance and Star Tours were highlights, and before the day ended, we made our way back to EPCOT to ride Soarin’, which never disappoints and always feels like a perfect reset.

Day Four: Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom Classics

Our final day started at Animal Kingdom, where we experienced Flight of Passage and all the Avatar attractions. We went on the safari, saw the animals, and enjoyed a slower, more nature-filled pace that felt like a nice contrast to the earlier days.

To wrap up the trip, we visited Magic Kingdom, fitting in Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Philharmonic. It was a classic Disney ending, even if a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

It was a short trip, and in hindsight, moving between so many parks was a little stressful. Next time, we will absolutely stick to one park per day. Still, we saw so much, laughed a lot, and made memories we will talk about for years.

Now we are home, tired in the best possible way, already dreaming about going back. Not anytime soon, but definitely again in a few years.

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Europe

Week Two at Oxford Flow: Another Amazing Trip to Oxford, England

As I wrapped up my second week at Oxford Flow, I had the wonderful opportunity to once again travel to the beautiful and historic town of Oxford, England. Every trip here feels like stepping into a storybook and this visit was no exception.

After landing, I made my first stop at Chutneys, one of my favorite spots for great Indian food. It was the perfect way to kick off the trip. Feeling energized, I decided to join Buzz Gym at the Westgate Mall which is a great place to get my mornings started right and stay active during my stay.

One of the things I’ve truly loved about these trips is the peaceful morning walks from my hotel to the Oxford Flow office. The blend of old stone buildings, leafy streets, and the lively buzz of the town waking up is something special. Unfortunately, with our upcoming office move, this will likely be my last trip where I’ll get to enjoy that particular commute. I’ll definitely miss it.

The week was full of memorable meals and great company. I had a fantastic dinner at The Permit Room with my colleagues John and Brendan sharing laughs and conversations that made the workday melt away. Another evening, Salvo and I took a walk through the heart of historic Oxford passing centuries-old colleges and courtyards before sitting down to a classic pub dinner at The Turf Tavern. A place filled with stories of its own.

Later in the week, we enjoyed a wonderful team lunch at The Fishes, an idyllic spot just outside of the city, and wrapped up the trip with a great evening at The Perch with Neil and Tim which was a perfect way to close out a productive and inspiring visit.

Beyond the work and meetings, what made this trip special, just like the first one, was the continued opportunity to learn, meet new people, and immerse myself deeper into the English culture. The people here are truly amazing. Welcoming, proud of their rich history, and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s been an honor to experience it alongside them.

I’m incredibly grateful for these moments and excited for what’s ahead. Until next time, Oxford!

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North America

A Memorable Weekend in Atlanta: Gabriela’s Wedding and Family Adventures

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling to Atlanta to celebrate a very special occasion—my niece Gabriela’s wedding to her new husband, Adam. The wedding was held at the beautiful Governor’s Towne House in Acworth, Georgia and it was a picture-perfect day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments with family.

Of course, no trip is complete without some exploring, and we made the most of our time in and around Atlanta. The weekend kicked off with a friendly (but competitive) tennis match with my brother Juan at Dellinger Park. It had been a while since we played and it was great to get out on the court, enjoy the crisp spring air, and relive some of our old matches.

Tanya and I had a great meal at Pollo Primo simple, flavorful, and exactly what we needed. Later in the weekend, we had a wonderful family lunch at La Parrilla, where the food and atmosphere made for a perfect gathering spot before the wedding festivities began.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was spending time with my parents. We started the morning at the Atlanta Breakfast Club, a popular spot known for its Southern-style comfort food. Watching them enjoy a hearty meal and share stories over coffee was a highlight of the trip.

We also took some time to visit some of Atlanta’s most iconic attractions. Coca-Cola World was a fun stop, full of nostalgia and interesting history about one of the world’s most famous brands. The Martin Luther King Jr. Center was a moving experience, a place that serves as a powerful reminder of Dr. King’s legacy and the continued importance of his message. From there, we explored the Center for Puppetry Arts, which brought out the kid in all of us with its incredible exhibits and classic puppets from childhood favorites.

Before wrapping up the trip, we walked around Lenox Square Mall, taking in the vibrant energy of one of Atlanta’s best shopping destinations. Our last dinner in the city was at Bones, a classic steakhouse with incredible food—definitely a great way to end the trip on a high note.

From the joy of celebrating Gabriela and Adam’s wedding to the memorable moments spent with family, this visit to Atlanta was truly special. Looking forward to the next time we can all gather again!

#AtlantaAdventures #FamilyTime #GabrielaAndAdam #GreatMemories

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North America

Mardi Gras in Lafayette: A Weekend of Food, Festivities, and Soccer

Mardi Gras in Lafayette is a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and, of course, incredible food. This year, we packed our weekend with classic Cajun experiences, delicious eats, and an unforgettable ending at a Dynamo vs. Inter Miami game.

Friday Night – Po’ Boys and a Cozy Stay

Our weekend started with a stop at Darrell’s, where we indulged in one of their legendary po’ boys. The roast beef with gravy was everything we hoped for—messy, flavorful, and the perfect way to kick off our Louisiana adventure. After stuffing ourselves, we checked into Hilton Parc Lafayette, our home base for the weekend. The hotel’s comfortable atmosphere gave us the perfect place to rest up for the festivities ahead.

Saturday – Exploring the Best of Cajun Country

We started our morning with a classic Lafayette breakfast, fueling up for a day of exploration. The first stop was Avery Island, the home of Tabasco. Walking through the pepper fields and learning about the history of this iconic hot sauce made us appreciate the spice even more. The lush jungle gardens and wildlife gave us a taste of Louisiana’s natural beauty.

Lunch was a treat at St. John Restaurant, where we enjoyed Cajun classics like crawfish étouffée and gumbo. Nothing beats the rich, comforting flavors of well-made Louisiana cuisine.

After lunch, we took a scenic drive to Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. The peaceful, swampy landscapes were a nice contrast to the lively Mardi Gras energy. It was the perfect spot to stretch our legs and soak in the natural side of Louisiana before heading back into town.

Back to Lafayette – Coffee, Parades, and More Food

No trip is complete without good coffee, so we stopped at Rêve Coffee Roasters in Lafayette. Their locally roasted beans and cozy vibe made for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up before heading to the highlight of the weekend—the Mardi Gras parade!

The streets of Lafayette were packed with energy. Floats rolled through, beads flew through the air, and the spirit of Mardi Gras was alive and well. The music, dancing, and festive atmosphere were exactly what we came for.

After the parade, we ended our night with a fantastic meal at Prejean’s. Their seafood gumbo and blackened redfish hit the spot, making for the ideal closing meal in Cajun country.

Sunday – Buc-ee’s and Soccer in Houston

Before heading home, we made a necessary pit stop at Buc-ee’s—because no road trip through the South is complete without one. Stocking up on snacks and souvenirs, we hit the road to Houston for the final highlight of the weekend: the Dynamo vs. Inter Miami game. Seeing some of the biggest stars in soccer and feeling the electric energy of the stadium was the perfect way to cap off an incredible trip.

From mouthwatering Cajun eats to scenic bayous and the thrilling spectacle of Mardi Gras, this weekend in Lafayette had it all. Until next time, Louisiana—Laissez les bons temps rouler!

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North America

Indianapolis is a city full of surprises and my recent trip there proved just that. It was a short visit but one packed with interesting experiences, great food, and a touch of nostalgia.

Upon arrival at the Houston airport I had just enough time to check out United’s Go Fly lounge in Terminal B. The concept impressed me—an innovative approach for travelers with short layovers who don’t have time for a full lounge experience. The lounge provided convenient access to snacks and drinks, making it an ideal stop before heading to my final destination.

That evening, I had dinner at The Library, a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent food. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of travel and prepare for the busy schedule ahead.

The following morning, we set out for Connersville to visit a distributor. The drive through Indiana’s countryside was peaceful, and the meeting was productive. Afterward, we stopped for lunch at No. 9 Grill in Cambridge, a great little spot with fantastic food that made for a memorable meal.

Our next stop was the Hoosier Gym in Knightstown, a pilgrimage for any basketball fan. The timing of our visit made it even more poignant—on the very day that Gene Hackman passed away. Standing in the gym where Hoosiers was filmed, I couldn’t help but reflect on the impact of the movie and Hackman’s legendary performance as Coach Norman Dale. It was a special moment to be there on such a significant day.

Charlie and I decided to change our flight and head back to Houston later that afternoon. While at the airport, I took some time to explore and stumbled upon some unique pieces of history—an Indy sports car on display, a letter from Abraham Lincoln, a note from Johnny Cash, and a guitar from ZZ Top. It was an unexpected but fitting way to wrap up the trip.

Though brief, the visit to Indianapolis was well worth it. From great food and productive meetings to meaningful moments and unexpected finds, it was a trip that left a lasting impression.

Categories
North America

A Whirlwind Business Trip to Casper, Wyoming

Business travel often comes with its fair share of excitement, exhaustion, and unexpected adventures. My recent trip to Casper, Wyoming, to meet with Engineered Equipment Inc. was no exception. From airport lounges to great food and a mad dash through Denver, this trip had it all.

The journey began with stops at the United Lounges in Houston and Denver—always a good way to get some work done and grab a quick refreshment before the next leg of the trip. Upon arriving in Casper, I made my way to Frank’s for a well-earned steak dinner. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. There’s something about a perfectly cooked steak after a long day of travel that makes all the difference.

After dinner, I decided to unwind with a game of poker, enjoying the local scene before calling it a night. The next morning, breakfast at the Hilton came with an unexpected highlight—the server’s homemade green salsa. It had just the right kick and was a great way to start the day.

Before heading to my meeting, I stopped by the Blue Ribbon for a solid cup of coffee. There’s nothing quite like a good local coffee shop to set the tone for a productive day. Lunch was at HQ Southern BBQ, where the flavors were as bold as the conversation. A great spot for a final meal before hitting the road.

Then came the sprint. My return trip started with a mad dash to the Casper airport, only to find myself in an all-out 25-minute run through the Denver airport to catch my connecting flight to Houston. Just what you need after a full day of meetings and travel.

I’ll be arriving back home at midnight, finally crawling into my bed around 1:30 AM. The best part? I get to wake up in my own home on Friday instead of spending another full day traveling. It’s always good to get out and meet with partners, but nothing beats coming home after a trip like this.

Casper, you were a whirlwind. Until next time!