Title: 13 Years of Full-Time Travel: Highlights from HoneyTrek in 2024 and What’s Coming in 2025
After 13 years of adventures on the road, one might assume that full-time travelers Anne and Mike Howard of HoneyTrek would be inclined to settle down. However, their enthusiasm for exploration, cultural experiences, and impactful travel keeps amplifying. In 2024, they traversed eight nations, made an appearance in a national television series, achieved a distinguished glamping accolade, and set the stage for an exhilarating new era in their travel narrative. Here’s a recap of their remarkable year and a glimpse into what awaits in 2025.
Baja Wellness: Where Medical Tourism and Beach Detox Meet
Starting the year at a wellness retreat in Baja California, the Howards merged affordable healthcare with beachfront camping. In Los Algodones, the dental hub of the world, they received exceptional treatment at a mere fraction of U.S. costs. Their journey also encompassed a general health assessment, a skin cancer diagnosis, and effective treatment—all topped off with rejuvenating beach moments along the Gulf of California.
Featured in Outside TV’s “Texas State of Mind”
HoneyTrek made an appearance in Outside Magazine’s “Texas State of Mind” series, showcasing the cultural richness of San Antonio. Accompanied by a professional film crew, they embraced the challenge of being in front of the camera and produced an engaging segment that highlighted their storytelling skills and passion for immersive travel.
Southeast Asia Exploration: Malaysia to Timor-Leste
Their journey in Southeast Asia commenced in diverse Malaysia, where they explored Kuala Lumpur, the karst scenery of Perak, and the UNESCO-listed island of Penang. They later ventured into Borneo’s lush rainforests, trekked alongside orangutans, and plunged into the Celebes Sea.
In Brunei, they undertook a complicated overland trip to uncover the world’s largest stilted village and the grandeur of the Sultanate. In contrast, Singapore delighted them with its global neighborhoods and cultural unity. Timor-Leste, the least-visited nation in Southeast Asia, revealed itself as a hidden treasure, abundant in colonial charm and natural wonders.
Filming a Travel TV Pilot in Indonesia
Elevating their storytelling, Anne and Mike produced a pilot episode for a travel program in Sumba, Indonesia. The project aims to highlight regenerative travel and the individuals behind sustainable tourism efforts. Their choice of location, Ngalung Kalla Retreat, embodied the kind of eco-friendly and community-focused destination they aspire to feature.
Nostalgia and New Explorations in the U.S.
Amid their global explorations, HoneyTrek returned to their beginnings in Hoboken, New Jersey, revisiting cherished memories while discovering nearby treasures like Lambertville and Cape May. They also uncovered the lively culture and heritage of Richmond, Virginia—CNN Travel’s top U.S. destination in 2024.
As keynote speakers at Camp Indie in the Berkshires, they motivated aspiring digital nomads to embrace location-independent lifestyles. Their Gold Country road trip through California’s Sierra Nevada region provided a blend of history, stunning nature, and thrilling experiences like whitewater rafting on the American River.
Puerto Rico: Glamping Consulting and Surf Championships
In their role as glamping consultants, HoneyTrek traveled to Puerto Rico to assist a new camp owner in creating his dream retreat. Their visit coincided with the ISA World Surfing Games, offering them an up-close experience of this Olympic-qualifying event and a deeper connection to the island’s community and culture.
Miami’s Untamed Side
Partnering with Visit Miami, HoneyTrek revealed the city’s hidden natural gems, featuring two national parks, a coral reef, and tropical fruit farms. Their initiative emphasized Miami’s biodiversity and dedication to sustainability, showcasing that the city’s wild aspects go far beyond its nightlife.
Tunisia: The Mediterranean’s Undiscovered Jewel
Tunisia became HoneyTrek’s 80th country and emerged as one of their unexpected favorites. With Roman ruins, Saharan sand dunes, and Berber warmth, the country provided a rich tapestry of cultures and stunning landscapes. Traveling with Tunisia Ecotourism, they engaged deeply with local communities and practices, from weaving rugs to crafting bread in the desert.
TBEX Alaska: Exploration and Growth in the Last Frontier
Speaking at TBEX, the leading travel blogging conference, took HoneyTrek to Alaska. Beyond the discussions, they explored the Chugach Mountains with fellow creators, enjoyed kayaking, glamping, and danced aboard the Alaska Railroad. This experience reaffirmed their dedication to community and lifelong learning.
Colorado: A Space to Refresh
Their time in Denver allowed the Howards to reconnect with family and friends. With house-sitting opportunities, they lived like locals and participated in seasonal celebrations, from Halloween to Thanksgiving. A side excursion to Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the U.S., added yet another altitude adventure to their repertoire.
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