Okay, confession time. For years, Coachella has been my annual pilgrimage. The music, the fashion, the vibes – I ate it all up. I'd spend months planning my outfits, scouring for the perfect flower crown, and mentally preparing for the desert heat. But this year? Something feels different. I'm still itching for an adventure, just not that adventure.

And honestly? I'm kinda relieved. Anyone else feel like Coachella has become less about the music and more about the Instagram moment? Don't get me wrong, I love a good selfie as much as the next person, but I'm craving something deeper, something realer this year. A friend even joked it's become more of a influencer convention than a music festival, haha!

So, where am I headed instead? Drumroll please… I'm going on a hiking trip through the Redwood National Park! Forget the desert heat and the throbbing bass; I'm craving the cool shade of ancient trees and the sounds of nature. I'm swapping my flower crown for a practical hat (sun protection is key, people!) and my sparkly boots for sturdy hiking shoes. No more battling crowds, just me, my friends, and the great outdoors.

One of my friends told me of a fun hiking experience, its sounds refreshing and fulfilling than Coachella! I know the mountains won't let me down. Honestly, I am so excited for the nature

Okay, so maybe hiking isn't your thing. No worries! The beauty of ditching the expected is that you get to create your own adventure. Here are a few other ideas for alternative escapes:

• Volunteer Trip: Give back to your community by volunteering at a local charity or environmental organization. I know it's not as fun as dancing, but its surely fulfilling!
• Road Trip: Pack your bags, grab a friend (or go solo!), and explore a new part of the country. Make a stop at a local diner, or try out some new ice cream flavor!
• Camping: Pitch a tent under the stars and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature. Don't forget the marshmallows!
• Staycation: Explore your own city like a tourist. Visit museums, try new restaurants, and discover hidden gems you never knew existed. I heard there is a new cafe opening up in the town, should give it a try!
• Creative Retreat: Dedicate a weekend to pursuing your passion, whether it's painting, writing, music, or anything else that sparks your creativity. This weekend, I would like to find a new hobby!

Ultimately, ditching Coachella this year is about honoring my own needs and desires. It's a reminder that it's okay to step away from the mainstream and create your own definition of fun and fulfillment. So, what does this mean for you? What are you craving this year? What makes your soul sing? Maybe it's Coachella, and that's awesome! But if it's not, don't be afraid to forge your own path. Life's too short to spend it doing things that don't bring you joy, ya know? Plus its okay to make mistakes, and we can always come back to it next year!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go pack my hiking boots and find a good trail map. Wish me luck! And tell me, where are you adventuring to this year?