The number goes up, but at least the stories keep getting better.
This absolute GEM still makes me laugh, mostly because… not much has changed.
February is peak season in Arizona, so my Airbnb is rented every year.
Translation: I’m forced to travel. 
As a result, I’ve spent the last few birthdays in some pretty incredible places—and this year is no exception.
(Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia)
This year’s birthday destination?
Hong Kong.
3 days, 2 nights; $225 USD RT flight, $50 a night pad!!
Aging is inevitable.
Dropping new pins is optional—but highly recommended around here!
Booking flights is like playing chess while most people are still playing checkers.
To bounce between Cebu and Hong Kong, I booked three one-way tickets instead of a single round-trip—and the math worked in my favor:
Cebu → Manila: $20
Manila → Hong Kong: $70
Hong Kong → Cebu: $135
Not glamorous. Not obvious to most.
But flexible, intentional, and cheaper than forcing a “normal” itinerary.
That’s the game:
Stop thinking in straight lines and start thinking strategically.
I tried to pick a destination that was actually high on my bucket list, and Hong Kong landed exactly where it should, near the top!
Bonus: it doubles as a visa run, since I have to leave the Philippines every 30 days. Inexpensive, efficient, and exciting—my favorite combo.
Winner winner—Peking chicken dinner. 
Honestly, it’s been a pretty solid run so far, and I still have two more months to explore on this adventure.
Not bad for someone who claims to be grumpy and bored all the time.
01/15 – Tokyo, Japan
01/23 – Cebu, Philippines
02/10 – Hong Kong
02/19 – Siquijor, Philippines
02/29 – Siargao, Philippines
03/07 – Cebu lease expires → TBD
Possible next moves before 04/15 (because why not):
Stay in Cebu, Seoul, Phuket, Bali, Da Nang…
We’ll see where boredom strikes next!
I really shouldn’t complain—this trip has been incredible so far.
Now, excuse me while I yell at the clouds due to my missed meds! 
Welcome to #Freedom54! 🥳
And … Get off my lawn, damn kids!