Business Trip Reflection: SFO / AUS / LAX

Despite the tight schedule, my recent business trip to the United States — covering San Francisco (SFO), Austin (AUS), and Los Angeles (LAX) — turned out to be a very rewarding and comfortable experience. Each city offered a unique blend of business dynamics, cultural character, and personal takeaways that made the trip both productive and enjoyable. The journey began in San Francisco, a city known for its innovation and tech-driven atmosphere. Meetings here were highly efficient, with key discussions centered around partnerships, technology trends, and future collaboration strategies. The Bay Area’s fast-paced rhythm kept things moving, but I appreciated the professionalism and openness of the people I interacted with. Although the time was short, I managed to take in a few sights like the Golden Gate Bridge from a distance — just enough to remind me of the city’s unique charm. Austin was the next stop, and it brought a noticeable shift in energy. Compared to San Francisco, Austin felt more relaxed yet equally vibrant. The tech scene is clearly growing fast, but with a down-to-earth Texas vibe. I had the chance to meet with several local teams and potential partners. The conversations were meaningful and grounded in real-world applications. I was also impressed by the city’s hospitality and southern friendliness. Even with back-to-back meetings, I found the pace refreshing and had time to enjoy some great local barbecue and live music in the evenings. The final leg of the trip took me to Los Angeles. As expected, L.A. was a mix of business and lifestyle, with a diverse and creative energy. I had important customer meetings here, focused primarily on product updates, customer satisfaction, and upcoming launches. The engagements were positive and reaffirmed our shared direction. While I didn’t have much downtime, I still managed to enjoy a walk by the beach near Santa Monica after a long day of discussions — a perfect way to unwind before heading home. Overall, this trip was a perfect balance of work intensity and personal comfort. Despite the packed schedule, I never felt overly rushed or exhausted. The well-planned logistics and smooth transitions between cities made a big difference. I also appreciated the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and clients face-to-face, something that still brings irreplaceable value in today’s digital-heavy work environment. This U.S. business trip reminded me of the importance of cultural adaptability, efficient communication, and maintaining energy across different time zones. It was a fulfilling journey that deepened business relationships and offered insights that will help shape future strategies. I return with renewed motivation and confidence for the projects ahead.