My First Solo Business Trip! Minnesota Diaries

At the end of February, I took a brave little leap and went on my first ever business trip to Minnesota. It was a total first for me—not just work-wise, but also travel-wise. I was so nervous I could’ve packed five backup toothbrushes (I didn’t, but almost). But the big kicker? I was traveling without Bear. Yep, just me, my suitcase, and my Squishmallow, thee Polar Bear.

I flew out of my beloved cold, snowy Appleton and landed smack in the chaos of Minneapolis airport; but I managed to find my way like a tiny, anxious explorer on a mission. I stayed at the Radisson Blu, which was connected to the Mall of America, and let me tell you: solo hotel vibes hit very different. Thank goodness Polar Bear was there to keep me company.

Work was work—but honestly, exciting work. I got to learn so much, meet great people, and feel like an actual grown-up in business-casual clothes making business-casual decisions. After all the events, I was (surprisingly!) able to squeeze in some shopping time at Mall of America like a woman on a mission. I had a couple of hours to shop, and yes, I was totally cutting it close—boarding was in about an hour and I still had to get to the airport! But hey, nothing says “seasoned traveler” like sneaking in a last-minute hoodie haul while still managing to make your flight. Plus, I got some really cool Japanese and Korean stuff to bring home to Bear.

Other foodsy things... Mr. Waffle Dessert had real taiyaki—crispy, warm, and stuffed with dreamy fillings like custard, chocolate, matcha, and even ice cream. I felt like a kid in a sweet shop. Then I found Niko-Niko Boba and nearly cried happy tears over an Ube boba with cheese foam!! Creamy, salty, sweet, and undeniably the taste of home. I know, I know, some of you don't appreciate cheese foam as much as I do but I'm a sucker for it. 

As for ramen, I wandered into a random place (still kicking myself for forgetting the name) and was blown away; it was way better than any overpriced bowl I’ve had before. It was like... a hole in a wall.. in the mall...

Food-wise, I gave Benihana a try—and… meh. For the price tag, I’d take Sushi Lovers any day, all day. But I did explore other food spots (peep the pics) and discovered a few hidden gems that totally made up for it. My tummy went on its own little vacation while I was working, which feels fair, right?

Flying home at night was a whole mood: nostalgic, low-key sad, but comforting too. It felt like saying goodbye to a mini chapter of growth, independence, and caffeine-powered courage. I missed Bear like crazy, but I came back a little more confident, a little more seasoned—and with way too many snacks in my carry-on.