The second trip around the world lasted 6 months, spanning from east to west, from October 10, 2018, to April 18, 2019: Bulgaria, Poland, Norway, USA, Japan, S. Korea, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, UAE, Cyprus, Bulgaria.

In order to facilitate our travels, we rely on Expedia.com for its flexibility in choosing entry dates and entire countries, not just cities. This approach broadens our horizons and allows us to explore beyond conventional borders. Our use of Expedia.com isn't a secret—it's an affiliate link that provides us with valuable support in planning our journeys. The real secret to our successful adventures lies in meticulous planning: when we embarked on our journey in October, we had already purchased our first ticket to the initial destination back in May. With careful consideration, we crafted our route step by step, navigating from one country to the next, and exploring city by city.

Expedia.com offers more than just flight options; it's a comprehensive platform where you can discover excellent deals on accommodations and car rentals. Whether seeking budget-friendly lodgings or luxurious stays, Expedia.com ensures we find the perfect place to rest our heads after each day of exploration. By leveraging its resources, we optimize our travel experiences, ensuring every aspect of our journey is seamlessly planned and executed.

And our third trip around the world lasted more than a year (due to Covid-19, we were stuck in the USA) from February 2020 to April 2021: Bulgaria, UAE, Philippines, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Turkey, and back to Bulgaria.
 

And our third trip around the world lasted more than a year, spanning from February 2020 to April 2021. This extended journey was a result of unforeseen circumstances, as the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily kept us in the USA. Despite the challenges, we embraced the opportunity to explore diverse corners of the globe, starting from our home in Bulgaria.

 

Our adventures took us through the vibrant streets of the UAE, the tropical beauty of the Philippines, and the dynamic city-state of Singapore. We then ventured across the vast landscapes of Australia, from the iconic Sydney Opera House to the breathtaking natural wonders of New Zealand. Returning to the USA, we immersed ourselves in its diverse culture, from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of California.

 

Continuing our journey, we discovered the rich history of Turkey, explored its ancient ruins and bustling markets. Finally, we returned full circle to Bulgaria, completing an unforgettable journey that spanned continents and cultures. Each destination left an indelible mark, enriching our lives with new experiences, friendships, and memories.

In every journey around the world, we have achieved countless memorable milestones, particularly in the United States of America. Over the course of three visits, we had the opportunity to explore and experience 35 out of the 50 diverse states that make up this vast country.
 

Our adventures took us along iconic American highways, such as Route 1, tracing the breathtaking East Coast from its northernmost point down to the picturesque Key West. We also conquered the historic Route 66, embarking on a nostalgic journey from Santa Monica Pier on the West Coast all the way to vibrant Chicago in the heart of the Midwest.
 

Our memories are filled with the awe-inspiring landmarks and natural wonders that define America's landscape. From the bustling streets of Times Square and the serene beauty of Central Park in New York City, to the thunderous cascades of Niagara Falls and the pioneering spirit of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, each destination left an indelible impression.
 

We marveled at the vibrant nightlife of Miami Beach, soaked in the laid-back atmosphere of Key West, stood in awe at the majestic Grand Canyon, and gazed upon the breathtaking vistas of Monument Valley and Horseshoe Bend. We explored the pristine beauty of Zion National Park, marveled at the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam, and found solace in the towering trees of Sequoia National Forest.
 

The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas dazzled us, while the iconic Hollywood Hills offered a glimpse into the heart of the entertainment industry. And who could forget the unique allure of Hawaii, with its volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
 

Each leg of our journey through the United States was a chapter in our global exploration, enriching our lives with unforgettable experiences, cultural insights, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Another significant milestone for us was our exploration of Australia, a country we had the privilege of visiting multiple times. Across three distinct visits, we embarked on an extensive journey from the northern reaches to the southern tip of this vast continent. Beginning in Darwin, we ventured through the rugged landscapes of the Outback, stopping to admire the ancient rock formations of Alice Springs and the unique underground dwellings of Coober Pedy.
 

Traveling along the eastern coastline, we immersed ourselves in the cultural and cosmopolitan hubs of Australia. In Melbourne, we reveled in the city's vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary offerings. Our visit to the capital city of Canberra provided insights into Australia's political history and architectural splendor.
 

Of course, no visit to Australia would be complete without experiencing the iconic Sydney and its world-renowned Opera House, a symbol of artistic excellence and architectural brilliance. From Sydney, we continued our journey northward, discovering the sun-drenched beaches of the Gold Coast, the bustling riverside city of Brisbane, and ultimately reaching Cairns, the gateway to the majestic Great Barrier Reef.
 

Throughout our travels in Australia, we were captivated by its breathtaking natural beauty, from the vast expanses of the Outback to the pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life. Each destination offered a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery, leaving us with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for Australia's rich diversity.

Getting to and exploring New Zealand seemed like a distant dream, akin to training as an astronaut and journeying to another planet. However, after successfully exploring Australia twice, we felt emboldened to uncover the mysteries of this remote and captivating land.
 

Our journey through New Zealand was a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes and cultural discoveries. In the mountainous and serene Queenstown, nestled amidst the Southern Alps, we found ourselves surrounded by pristine lakes and snow-capped peaks that seemed to touch the sky. The journey continued to Auckland, New Zealand's orderly and vibrant capital, where modern architecture blends harmoniously with lush green spaces and a bustling waterfront.
 

Exploring further, we marveled at Stirling Point in Bluff, the southernmost tip of New Zealand's South Island, where the windswept coastline meets the roaring seas of the Southern Ocean. In Christchurch, we discovered a city rebuilding itself with resilience and creativity following the earthquakes, yet still retaining its charm and cultural heritage.
 

Wellington, New Zealand's creative and culinary capital, captivated us with its eclectic mix of cafes, galleries, and stunning harbor views. Climbing Mauao, or Mount Maunganui, provided panoramic vistas of the Bay of Plenty, while visiting the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse at the northernmost point offered a spiritual connection to Maori traditions and the meeting of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean.

In every corner of New Zealand, we immersed ourselves in its natural wonders, from lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches and geothermal wonders. The warmth and hospitality of the Kiwi people, combined with the country's commitment to environmental sustainability, made our journey even more enriching.
 

New Zealand truly captured our hearts with its unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural richness, leaving us with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for this extraordinary country.

In every journey to Japan, we have experienced countless unforgettable moments across the country's rich cultural landscape. Over the course of several visits, we had the chance to explore and immerse ourselves in all four of Japan's main islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku—each offering its own unique charm and traditions.