Guest blog by Alejandro Farina Garcia
As my summer internship in San Francisco came to an end, I packed my bags, not just to return to Chicago, but to embark on a journey across Southeast Asia, Europe, and finally back to Chicago. What started as a chance to explore new places quickly became a journey of connection, reflection, and shared experiences with fellow Boothies.
Southeast Asia: Adventure, Culture, and Connection
I began in Hong Kong, reconnecting with an old friend over dim sum in the bustling international hub before meeting four fellow Boothies in Vietnam. We explored the lively streets of Hanoi, took in the natural beauty of Halong Bay, and enjoyed incredible local food. In Cambodia, we explored ancient Khmer temples and watched the sunrise over Angkor Wat, a humbling experience that put Southeast Asia’s deep history into perspective.
Thailand was a mix of bustling cities and peaceful retreats. We visited temples and markets in Bangkok, spent time at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, and enjoyed the beaches of Phuket, where we met a group of Boothies on a Random Walk trip.
We wrapped up our time in Southeast Asia in Indonesia, where we reunited with another group of Boothies. Days in Bali were spent surfing and exploring, while evenings brought oceanfront sunsets and great conversations.
Europe: Exploring History, Coastlines, and Oktoberfest
In Istanbul, we joined a larger group of Boothies to explore landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, immersing ourselves in the city’s rich history. A ferry ride along the Bosphorus, which divides the European and Asian sides of the city, reinforced how interconnected the world and our Booth network truly are.
From Bodrum, we traveled along the Turkish coast and through the Dodecanese Islands, exploring small towns, hiking, and swimming in the Aegean. The relaxed pace gave us time to connect over shared meals and take in incredible landscapes.
The summer adventure ended at Oktoberfest in Munich, where Boothies traveling all over the world reunited for one last celebration before heading back to Chicago. Dressed in lederhosen and dirndls, we joined the crowds in the beer tents, enjoying Bavarian food, music, and the festival atmosphere.
More Than Just Travel
Returning to Chicago, I realized that this summer was about more than just exploring new places. Traveling with Boothies reinforced what makes this MBA experience so special. As we begin our final year, I know these connections and memories will continue to inspire and support us in whatever comes next. Because in the end, this experience, just like the MBA, is about more than the destinations. It is about enjoying the journey and the people who make it unforgettable.
