Most people hate geography, which I find hard to discern why. It is one of the geekiest things about me that only a few people know about.

As a kid, I always kept a world map. Then, I would study different countries from certain continents. After recognizing each country, I would memorize their capital cities, which is indicated by a star (or they usually come in bold letters). And while my expertise in geography has waned as I grew up, I could still remember some of them. Lately, this urge to learn more about cities from other countries is fueled by my dream to travel.

Not many people might be aware of this but I know every capital city for all of the US’ 50 states. Hence, I also wanted to visit every single state in the US. I am serious about this but will be something worth investing on. It amazes me how each state offers a unique experience each time. Here are a few things I look forward to in visiting these states:

1. The rich history of the South – visiting states like Alabama, Mississippi, or Louisiana. I’d like to listen to some jazz music or attend at least one Mardi Gras celebration before I die.

2. Beauty of natural formation in the Southwest – canyon formations in California and Arizona, and the huge desserts in Nebraska, Utah, or Nevada.

3. Roadtrip – It should be fun to drive around Florida and experience its famed Everglades National Park and the world-class Daytona Beach.

4. And who says you can’t have fun with snow? Over at Alaska, I might be able to learn some new snow skiing skills.

Some rainy nights, I would sit on my bed and watch the world through the window, especially when a slight rain is pouring. I always dream I was in Paris, walking in cobbled stone paths. Or in Amsterdam, picking out my favorite white tulips on a spring day. Or better yet, bungee jumping in New Zealand.

Just the other night, I was flipping through magazines on a bookshop and I saw this log cabin house and I dreamt of a winter vacation on the American Midwest, Aspen perhaps. Meanwhile, another shown a bungalow somewhere in Hawaii, with a terrace overlooking the blue-green ocean. I instantly thought of having breakfast there while sipping a cup of coffee.

“All work and no play makes one dull.”

This is it! I’m taking a break (a paid holiday at that – thanks to my client who was kind enough to give me the incentive) from work for a couple of days. Hopefully, those couple of days will be put to good use. After all, summer’s almost done and this could be my last shot at being able to enjoy the season before it bids goodbye. And more hopefully (fingers crossed), it extends up until the weekends so I can enjoy it to its fullest.

I really do deserve this one, after all that I’ve been through this past week.

Oh, I hope I won’t miss work – all these articles to write. Nah! I don’t think so. Forget about the outside world for a while, and all the work and everyday stress that goes with it. Hopefully, I’d be back for work next week feeling more rejuvenated! So, here’s to hoping…