Bailey’s 2025 Travel Recap

This year was packed with back-to-back flights, spontaneous adventures, and journeys that took me from the mountains of Montana to the savannas of Africa. I traveled for bachelorette parties, weddings, work, family, and pure fun—adding up to a spectacular year!

Miami & Daytona

The year kicked off with a work trip to Miami, followed immediately by a Ricky Bobby–themed bachelorette party at the Daytona 500. The energy and chaos of the race has me itching to get back to another NASCAR race. We had the absolute best time.

Andalusia, Spain

Our annual girls trip took us to Spain for ten incredible days of horseback riding in the mountains and exploring the historically rich cities of Seville and Granada. We got the Más Team together in person and Adrianna and I pulled our friend Kelsey into the mix which made the trip even better. We’re already plotting a horse trip for 2026.

Peru

Every year, Andrew and I plan a big adventure to close out ski season (conveniently aligned with my birthday). This year’s destination was Peru.

We spent two jam-packed weeks exploring a country we instantly fell in love with. Peru blew us away with its warm people, jaw-dropping landscapes, and endless opportunities for adventure. We packed in as much as possible—Lima, Huacachina, the Nazca Lines, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley—and still left with a list of hikes and regions we can’t wait to return to.

Throughout the US

Returning to the U.S. didn’t slow things down for me. I kicked off summer with a whirlwind of North American trips: Las Vegas, Miami, Rhode Island, Florida, Idaho, Punta Mita (MX), and Chicago—which was filled with a rotation of reunions, sunshine, and great time with friends and family.

Back home in Montana, we squeezed in a five-night overnight float trip, soaking in that perfect summer magic only Montana can deliver.

Africa: A Dream Family Safari

Next up was Africa for the Dowd family safari—a true bucket-list experience.

We spent 10 days in Botswana, riding horses across the Makgadikgadi Pans, safariing through the Okavango Delta, and river cruising along Chobe. Afterward, we crossed into Zambia to view the iconic Victoria Falls.

When the rest of the family flew home, Andrew and I continued on to Uganda for gorilla trekking. Uganda overwhelmed me in the best possible way—I have never felt so welcomed by a country. Locals thanked us for choosing Uganda and greeted us with genuine warmth everywhere we went. We completed two successful gorilla treks, played volleyball with local kids, and even picked up a few new musical skills along the way.

Hawaii’s Big Island + Kauai

Next up was a trip to Hawaii. On the Big Island, highlights included snorkeling with turtles right in front of our resort, a scenic horseback ride, and an unforgettable night snorkel with manta rays. Then we hopped over to Kauai—now firmly on my list of the most beautiful islands in the world. The emerald mountains meeting turquoise water is something you simply have to see.

We stayed at the Grand Hyatt on the south side before heading north to Hanalei Bay, one of my favorite towns with its laid-back surf vibe and family-friendly beach. And the Nā Pali Coast boat tour? Absolutely unmissable. We spent the day weaving along cliffs, discovering hidden beaches and sea caves, watching dolphins race alongside us, and snorkeling with vibrant marine life.

A Montana “Staycation”

To close out the fall, I traded long flights for a Montana staycation with my dad at The Ranch at Rock Creek. This all-inclusive, five-star western retreat exceeded every expectation. We stayed in “The Stables,” the original 100+ year-old property stables converted into beautifully appointed rooms decorated with antique bits, bridles, and ranch memorabilia.

With over a dozen activities on offer, we opted for horseback riding and skeet shooting. My dad enjoyed the spa while I toured the property with the general manager. From the accommodations to the activities to the food—everything at The Ranch at Rock Creek was exceptional. I can’t wait to return.