What a year 2024 turned out to be! Filled with exciting travels, major family milestones, my first layoff in career and even unexpected political developments back in Bangladesh, this year has truly kept me on my toes. As December rolled in, my wife Shusmita, our son Ahyan, and our daughter Suhaila joined me in a final adventure to close out the year in Los Cabos, Mexico. It was the perfect finishing touch to an eventful twelve months.
A Year of Travel, Celebrations, and Challenges
Guys’ Trip to Las Vegas (September)
In September, I took a “guys only” trip with some friends to Las Vegas. We laughed nonstop, enjoyed some shows, and simply took a break from the daily grind. Vegas never disappoints when it comes to letting loose!Elk Meadow Cabins at Orick, CA
Later in the year, eight families/friends teamed up for a serene getaway to Elk Meadow Cabins in Orick, California. Nestled among giant redwoods and scenic trails, it gave us the perfect blend of nature and bonding time.Political Shifts in Bangladesh
2024 will also be remembered for the violent downfall of the fascist Hasina government in Bangladesh—a momentous shift. I participated in protests both online and in the Bay Area, supporting the push for democracy. Then, one of my role models, Nobel Laureate Dr. Yunus, stepped up to lead the interim government, kindling hope for a better future in my home country.Career Ups and Downs
This year brought a personal career challenge: getting laid off for the very first time in my life. While unexpected, it pushed me toward a much-needed Myrtle Beach family trip in South Carolina. A little sunshine and sand always help put things into perspective.Family Milestones
2024 was big for our extended family, too. We finally hosted the long-awaited, grand 50th-anniversary celebration for my parents in Bangladesh. Friends, relatives, and extended family came together to make it an unforgettable day.
Meanwhile, my son Ahyan graduated and moved to the University of Miami to study Musical Theatre. Before he officially started classes, we managed a couple of short trips to New York and Florida—quick but memorable getaways to set him on his path.Road Trips Galore
Taking my friend Nayan—who flew in from Bangladesh—to Las Vegas by road for his business seminar in the U.S. was another highlight. Road-tripping is a fantastic way to see America’s diverse landscapes.
And speaking of road trips, I had a memorable drive through Monument Valley with my friend Wali Bhai. Watching the sun set against the iconic red rock formations was a spiritual experience, to say the least.
Ending 2024 on a High Note in Los Cabos
After such a whirlwind year, it felt only right to wind down in a place known for relaxation and adventure alike. Our Los Cabos trip came about rather spontaneously—but turned into the perfect culmination of 2024’s highs and lows.
ATV Zip Car Thrills
One of our favorite activities was tearing across the dunes in an ATV zip car. The roar of the engine and the spray of sand added an element of thrill to our beach vacation. Ahyan, always our little daredevil, took the passenger seat for an up-close taste of desert adventure.Bike Ziplining
Riding a bike while ziplining—yes, really—was one of the most surreal experiences we’ve had. Pedaling above the desert at sunset, gazing out at the golden terrain, gave us a bird’s-eye view of the vast Mexican landscape.Nighttime Camel Trek
Imagine the gentle sway of a camel beneath a star-dotted sky. It’s not every day you picture yourself on camelback in Mexico, but Los Cabos made it happen! The kids adored feeding the camels, and Shusmita found the entire moonlit experience almost dreamlike.RCI Membership Perks
Even though it was somewhat last minute, my RCI membership helped secure discounted rates on lodging and activities. It took some of the financial sting out of planning a spontaneous trip, allowing us to splurge on extra adventures.Relaxation, Mexican Style
Of course, we balanced out the adrenaline with downtime by the beach, sampling fresh seafood, and exploring local markets. Suhaila brought home handmade trinkets while Shusmita and I enjoyed sipping on ice-cold drinks under a warm sun.
Looking Ahead
As we said adiós to Los Cabos—and to 2024—we couldn’t help but reflect on how much this year has changed us. From witnessing significant political events in Bangladesh, to celebrating family milestones, to crossing new travel adventures off our bucket list, we ended the year feeling both grateful and inspired.
Where will 2025 take us? Who knows? But after the roller coaster that was 2024, I’m excited to see what the future holds.
