As an oncologist, my work-life is intense. But group travel lets me be a kid again
I work as a radiation oncologist in a clinic that delivers care to underserved regions. Growing up in rural Louisiana, the opportunity to bring cancer care closer to home resonates with me.
My job is not only to treat cancer, but to cater to the goals of the individual and hopefully be a source of light and hope. I treasure the opportunity to be present in some of the most trying times of people’s lives.
My days are very full. I usually wake up around 4am to prepare clinic notes, and I work until around 8pm most evenings. When I am working, I’m in full “on” mode: 4.45am might count as a sleep-in. By the end of the day, I’m exhausted. My willpower to plan anything is low.
That’s what I love about Flash Pack’s approach to group travel – everything is curated for you. I’ve been on four trips so far, including Costa Rica, Colombia, Chile and Peru. Every time I return energized and ready to get on with the next chapter of my work-life.
I usually wake up around 4am and work most evenings
Normally, I’m someone who likes to take control and make agendas for everything. So, it’s such a relief not to have to stress about any of the planning. With Flash Pack, a Pack Leader trip tells me what to do, where to go and even what to wear. They sort every last detail of the logistics; all I have to do is turn up.
I’m so happy to hand over responsibility that I don’t even scour the itineraries for the vacations I’ve booked. I read enough to know what to pack, make a list and then simply show up. The surprise is all part of the fun. I think, “Oh, this is what we’re doing today.” In a way, it’s like regressing to childhood. I just turn up and follow the leader. It’s play time in the truest sense of the word.
I also love the blend of immersion and disconnection that comes with each group adventure. It’s great to arrive somewhere new and wake up in a completely different environment. At the same time, I am not a sit-on-a-beach type of person. I like moving, walking, biking and touring. Rafting is one of my favorite past-times – the stronger the rapids, the better. I like to get into that mode where I’m engaging my brain but I’m also relaxed and doing something different.
Activities-wise, rafting in the jungle of Costa Rica was a highlight for me. Together, we tackled class III and IV rapids on the Pacuare River, making our way to a remote rainforest lodge. We had to rely on one another quite a bit – it was a really bonding experience.
I am not a sit-on-a-beach person. I like walking, biking and touring
In Peru and the Andean highlands, it was the culture that stood out. From the local food to the incredible colors of the landscape and the architecture, the Sacred Valley felt unique.
In the city of Cusco, we stopped at an alpaca and llama farm. The animals were clearly well-cared for and very friendly. The women were in traditional dress, and they showed us how they make garments from alpaca wool. Seeing the process up-close was fascinating, and everyone was kind. The place had a joyful feel.
Above all, what feels special about Flash Pack is the ability to try new things with people in your age group. When you share experiences with travelers that you connect with, the whole thing feels more meaningful.
I love meeting new people, and I got on well with everyone on all my trips. With Heather, a woman I met on the Costa Rica trip, we even ended up doing another adventure together (to Peru). She also works in medicine – she’s a general surgeon based in Tennessee – and we’re still in touch now.
What’s special is the ability to connect with people your age
Back home in Arkansas, I enjoy working with cancer patients, and I love my coworkers. However, as a physician with a “go-go-go” attitude, I’ve struggled to let go of my work – even when I’m on my own time. There are always more tasks to do, and bigger things to achieve.
In the most simple terms, it’s so nice to have an organization that curates experiences for me, and with like-minded people. It’s given me the freedom to untether from the stresses of my daily life and enjoy time not only with new friends, but also in other cultures that I’d otherwise know nothing about. I don’t like being away too long, yet I relish having time out somewhere different, lively and beautiful – somewhere totally new.
Dr. Howard Morgan is a radiation oncologist who lives in the US state of Arkansas. He’s traveled with Flash Pack to Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile and Peru.
Images: Courtesy of Dr. Howard Morgan
