100 Days with Dad: A Journey of Healing and Discovery
We began this meaningful and transformative trip on November 11, 2024, as a healing journey for both Dad and me to honor the cherished memory of Mum. We both truly needed this much-deserved break, and I made a promise to Mum that I would take Dad traveling, despite his past lack of interest in such adventures. Our comprehensive plan includes a mix of nature, cityscapes, and cultural experiences to provide the balance and diversity we need to heal and grow together.
The Itinerary
11 Nov - 16 Dec: New Zealand
16 Dec - 5 Jan: Melbourne
5 Jan - 8 Jan: Adelaide
8 Jan - 18 Jan: Tasmania
18 Jan - 1 Feb: Sydney
1 Feb - 8 Feb: Brisbane
8 Feb - 18 Feb: Singapore
18 Feb: Return to Hong Kong
Why embark on such an ambitious journey? Losing Mum left a void that felt impossible to fill. For months, life felt like a series of routines devoid of joy and purpose. I knew we needed a way to reconnect—not just with the world, but with each other. Travel, with its ability to push boundaries and create shared memories, seemed like the perfect antidote to our grief.
This will also be my first trip with Dad 24/7 ever since I was born. Not knowing what to expect, I see this journey as a training ground for both of us to navigate new dynamics and grow together.
Planning this trip was an exercise in intention. I wanted each stop to reflect something meaningful—whether it’s a place Mum would have loved, a setting conducive to reflection, or simply an opportunity to step out of our comfort zones. The itinerary was designed to blend tranquility with adventure, giving us time to process our emotions while also embracing life’s possibilities.
The southern hemisphere felt like the ideal choice for this journey. Mum had often chatted about wanting to visit this part of the world, and it’s one of only two trips she spoke of before her passing. Dad had been to Melbourne with Mum before, but their visit was part of a tour, and they didn’t have the chance to explore many of the places they wanted to see. Returning to Melbourne felt like a way to honor those unfinished plans while creating new memories of our own.
This trip isn’t just about where we’re going—it’s about why we’re going. It’s about breaking free from the confines of grief, reconnecting as a family, and creating a new chapter in our lives. It’s a tribute to Mum, a promise fulfilled, and a reminder that life, even in its hardest moments, is worth exploring.
As we prepare to embark on this journey, I feel a mix of anticipation and hope. I know there will be challenges along the way, but I also believe in the transformative power of shared experiences. Here’s to 100 days of healing, discovery, and love—for Mum, for Dad, and for us.
