Birthdays: a universal language of joy, connection, and unforgettable celebrations.
To celebrate Agoda’s 20th birthday, we asked Agodans to share their most meaningful birthday memories for our travel photo contest. From heartfelt traditions to spontaneous celebrations and surprises that turned strangers into friends, the submissions reminded us that birthdays aren’t just about marking time; they’re about bridging cultures, one slice of cake at a time.
Here are the five winning photos that capture the magic of celebrating another year of life, wherever you are in the world.
Birthday Mountain Memories in Kyrgyzstan
Anatole Colevas
Marketing Team
“This was the birthday celebration for Muratbek (the man waving), the patriarch of the homestay where we stayed during a backpacking trip in Kjyrgalan, Eastern Kyrgyzstan, near the border with Kazakhstan and China. I can’t recall his exact age, but I believe he was in his late 70s.
Muratbek had spent 30 years working in a Soviet coal mine and had witnessed the rise and fall of the Soviet Union. He was a kind and fascinating man, deeply proud of his farm and family.
For the party, they butchered and roasted a sheep, and we spread a large quilt on the grass near their home to eat and drink together. It was a blast.”
Family Cheers in Indonesia
“April 2025 was extra special: it was my birthday! I celebrated with my big, wonderful family at a restaurant in Jakarta, Indonesia.
This photo captures the joy right after the candle-blowing tradition. Fun fact: the restaurant staff joined in, singing Happy Birthday at full volume. It was so loud, I’m pretty sure people in the next zip code heard it! I turned bright red as the entire place turned to watch my unexpected spotlight moment. (Note to self: never trust family surprises!) While I have plenty of photos and videos, this one perfectly sums up the laughter, love, and chaos of the day.”
Three Generations of Love in Brazil
Fernanda Rosa
Rocket Travel by Agoda
“This photo captures my grandmother Luzia on her 90th birthday. She’s standing beside her two daughters, who were turning 69 and 70. Luzia was the mother of seven children and spent her life on a farm, where she did it all: planting, harvesting, caring for animals, cooking, and cleaning to provide for her family. She was a shining example of faith, love, and thoughtfulness.
Luzia passed away exactly one year after this photo was taken, just two days after I left her town to travel to my wedding, carrying her blessing with me as I departed. She never liked parties or having her photo taken, which makes this moment even more special. This photo remains one of our last and loveliest memories of her.”
70 Years of Joy in Italy
“70 and happily counting!
Celebrating seven decades years of joy and gratitude, my dad shines brightly, surrounded by me and our beautiful family here in Milan, Italy. Unafraid to embrace his age, he faces life’s many challenges with bravery and welcomes the new joys that each day brings. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and endless appreciation—for every moment that has shaped our remarkable paths and allowed us to feel truly alive. To many more years together, and to each one of us!”
Birthday Peaks and New Beginnings in Indonesia
Erlinawati Erlinawati
Customer Service Team
“This birthday, I swapped cake for conquering Mount Prau with my brother and his awesome friends in our homeland of Indonesia. The summit views may have been shy, and the wind had other plans for my birthday candles, but the journey? Absolutely breathtaking. New paths and new challenges wholeheartedly embraced. Plus, the energy of the incredible young souls I met there was seriously contagious! I’m feeling fueled, inspired and ready for all that lies ahead.”
Want more travel stories?
Click below to explore past winning entries and unique perspectives from Agodans across the globe:
- Click below to explore past winning entries and unique perspectives from Agodans across the globe:
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