Julia Reed

How did you get involved in travel?

"My love of travel started when I was born and raised in Hong Kong, a foreign country to my family and me. Growing up in a different culture profoundly shaped how I see the world and sparked an interest in our shared interconnectedness. As a naturally curious, outgoing, and open-minded individual, I gravitate toward travel experiences where I can enhance cross-cultural connections with others. I've always been adventurous, and since childhood, I have had opportunities to live and travel in Central and South America, SE Asia, Europe, and parts of Africa. Traveling to other places is more than seeing the highlights; I want to immerse myself in the cultures and traditions of the countries I visit!"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"A travel experience I'll never forget was meeting my high school pen pal from Seville in person during one of Spain’s most iconic celebrations, Semana Santa, or Holy Week, during Easter. Having the opportunity to connect with someone from another country and experience her culture and traditions firsthand was genuinely life-changing. From dressing up in traditional Semana Santa attire to having late-night dinners with her family, I knew then that I was hooked on Spanish culture, its deep-rooted traditions, incredible cuisine, and, of course, the warmth of its people!"