Spreadsheets to Sunsets: A Travel and Trade Blog — The Plan
After a few years of balancing debits and credits, I’ve decided it is time to balance something else: my life.
Fresh off the back of becoming a newly qualified ACA chartered accountant, I’m hitting pause on the spreadsheets to explore a world far beyond the office.
This is my first time properly stepping outside of Europe, and where better to start than the vibrant, emerging and dynamic corners of Asia? It’s more than just a holiday — it’s a journey to uncover new cultures, potential career moves, and maybe even some unexpected business opportunities along the way!
The Plan
The journey will kick off in Istanbul, Turkey, a city where history breathes through every stone and street corner. Formerly known as Constantinople, this iconic crossroads of East and West has been a pivotal city for centuries, from the Roman Empire to the Ottomans. So what better city to visit first then this icon which bridges Europe to Asia.
Next, I’ll be heading to Dubai — a city that’s not just racing into the future but striving to become a major player on the global financial stage. It’s fascinating to see Dubai’s ambitious rise, attempting to position itself alongside powerhouses like New York and London. Lets see if I end up falling into the crowd of people who end up loving it so much they want to move out there, or the other crowd who find it to be a soulless desert hellscape 🤔.
From there, it’s off to Thailand for a whole month! Where I’ll dive into both the urban energy of Bangkok and the more relaxed vibes of Chiang Mai and Phuket. Thailand is known not just for its rich culture and incredible food, but also as a hub for digital nomads and entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in a rapidly growing market.
In Malaysia (also for a month), I’ll explore Kuala Lumpur and Penang, two places often lauded for offering the best value for money when it comes to quality of life. With a growing economy, modern infrastructure, and relatively low living costs, it’s no wonder so many expats are flocking here.
Singapore is next on the list — a city often dubbed the ‘Switzerland of Asia’ for its stability, wealth, and influence as a global financial center. It’s a place where order, precision, and growth meet. I can’t wait to discover how this tiny city-state punches well above its weight on the world stage. A potential new homebase for the next leg of my career?
Finally, I’ll be wrapping up in Hong Kong, a city that has captivated me since childhood. Its iconic neon-lit skyline and bustling streets have long been symbols of ambition and possibility. Once a jewel of the 80s and 90s, Hong Kong continues to be an awe-inspiring metropolis.
All this kicks off in just over a weeks time as I write this!
The next blog, will be “Week 0” and on the topic of packing and getting ready to hit the road for 3 months with just a carry-on and backpack! 😱
Follow me on Twitter / X for up to date entries and posts while I’m travelling. And my Instagram for all the photo goodness — @raiyhan66.