Welcome to 2025
As the calendar turns to 2025, I find myself reflecting on the year gone by—a whirlwind of travel, growth, and meaningful connections. For someone like me, a born-and-raised New Yorker who thrives on the fast pace and constant movement, 2024 was another year of transformation. It pushed me to embrace the art of slowing down, even while jet-setting from the Middle East to Europe to the States. It was a year of contrast, of grounding myself while staying in motion, and I’m stepping into 2025 with a clearer mind, a fuller heart, and a renewed focus.
From meditating on a quiet beach in Alicante to soaking in the vibrant culture of cities like Split and Hamburg, this past year wasn’t just about places—it was about the people I met and the lessons I learned. I forged friendships that reminded me of the beauty of connection, found inspiration in family and friends who continue to shape my path, and was deeply motivated by all the kids in my life. Though none of them are my own, their smiles and hugs inspire me every day to be better, while giving me the opportunity to share knowledge of the world’s history, culture, and beauty with them. I challenged myself to take risks, and bold moves can be scary, but isn’t that what growth is all about?
This year, I’m leaning into that same energy: embracing uncertainty, chasing inspiration, and staying grounded in the knowledge that every experience—whether it's a win or a lesson—gets me closer to being my best self. Here’s to the adventures ahead, to finding joy in the journey, and to making 2025 a year to remember.
Bear with me - this newsletter is a bit longer….
Just Sharing Something Personal
(before getting into the 2024 highlights)
Travel wasn’t always a passion of mine—it grew from a deeply personal moment. In 2011, I lost my dad. He was an immigrant with a hustle-hard mentality who came to America with a dream and built himself into a self-made entrepreneur. My dad taught me the value of hard work from a very young age, lessons that shaped who I am today. He also taught me about responsibility—and taxes—the hard way.
Quick Dad story (if you know me, you’ve probably heard this one a few times lol): Every month, I’d join my dad on his trips to Manhattan, just the two of us. One stop was a discount store called Odd Job near Rockefeller Center. On one visit, he told me I could pick a toy for $3. Full of excitement, I ran to the toy aisle and found my favorite—a G.I. Joe figure for $2.99. Victory! Or so I thought. When I brought it back, he looked at me and said, “What about tax? With taxes, it’s more than $3.” I didn’t get the toy that day, and while I was upset in the moment, it’s a lesson I’ll never forget.
Nearly 40 years later, that lesson (amongst many many others) still sticks with me. It taught me to plan carefully, be practical, stay humble, and, most importantly, if I want something, I have to work for it. My dad’s immigrant grit and his life lessons shaped the foundation that drives me today.
Sorry back to the travel part -as part of our Hindu culture, we cremate the dead and spread their ashes in a holy river in India. Planning this trip with my mom and brother was deeply emotional, but inviting close friends turned it into something more. While the core reason for the journey was personal, sharing India’s culture and beauty with my friends brought unexpected joy and distraction. It was the first trip I ever planned—not nearly as polished as I am now, but enough to make it one of the most memorable experiences of our lives.
When I returned, some colleagues—now close friends—asked me to plan a trip to India with them. A year later, I found myself back in India, guiding a new group through its magic. That second trip solidified my love for crafting meaningful travel experiences and planted the seeds of what would become my passion for travel AND Trip planning.
Fast forward a few years, and work brought me to Dublin for six months. During that time, I visited 32 cities across seven countries, seizing every chance to explore. After a couple of months of working basically seven days a week into the late hours, I decided enough was enough. I put my foot down, took some time off, and went to Rome for my first solo trip—a defining moment. It was a reminder that life is meant to be lived: don’t live to work, work to live. The experience of booking tours alone and sightseeing was amazing; it gave me a sense of freedom and self-discovery. Eating alone at a fine dining restaurant was particularly interesting. At first, I felt nervous or shy—it wasn’t the norm for me—but by the end of the meal, I realized how empowering and liberating it felt. That weekend gave me the confidence to explore the world entirely on my terms and I have never looked back!
Since then, travel has become a core part of who I am. It connects me to people, places, and cultures while fueling my love for food. From fresh pasta in Rome to spicy street food in India and world-class wines in hidden corners, food and travel are inseparable—each destination a delicious story waiting to be told. ✨
Top 5 Personal Highlights of 2025
Purchasing a Dream Second Home in Upstate New York: One of my boldest and most exciting milestones of closing out 2024 was been becoming the proud owner of a cozy cabin-style home on five acres of peaceful land in upstate New York. It’s not just a home—it’s a leap of faith, a step into the unknown, and a commitment to living life with intention. This cabin is the perfect getaway, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, and it’s already become my sanctuary for recharging and reconnecting with nature. Taking this step felt risky but also invigorating—a reminder that the best decisions are often the ones that push us out of our comfort zones.
COMING SOON TO AIRBNB!
Becoming a Travel Advisor with Fora Travel: This year, I officially joined Fora Travel as an advisor, helping clients turn their travel dreams into reality. Achieving advanced status was a testament to my dedication to curating meaningful experiences, and it’s been inspiring to connect with so many fellow travelers, travel advisors, and colleagues in the travel industry along the way who have all had made such an impact on helping me learn along the way.
The launch of www.roamandshine.com was one of the most creative and challenging steps I’ve taken this year. Creating a space to share travel stories, positivity, and inspiration has been a long-time dream, and seeing it come to life—along with my first newsletter—has been incredibly rewarding. Whether this venture succeeds or not, the learning experience alone has been worth every moment. From diving into email marketing to experimenting with web design, every step of building something so creative has been exhilarating. But let’s be honest—whether it succeeds or not, I will not fail, because I’m a bit competitive by nature. If one strategy doesn’t work, I’ll find another, because this is a challenge I’m determined to conquer.
Achieving Diamond Status on Delta: Reaching Diamond Medallion status with Delta Airlines was a proud moment that reflects my love for travel. With priority upgrades, exclusive benefits, and a smoother travel experience, I’m ready to take 2025 to new heights—literally and figuratively! Going to break the bank on travel this year….will replenish and figure it out in 2026…HA!
Focusing on Health, Wellness, and Boldness: This year, I committed to becoming the best version of myself. From prioritizing physical fitness and mental well-being to strengthening relationships with friends and family, 2024 was about balance, growth, and living with intention. But it was also about pushing my boundaries—being bolder, stepping outside my comfort zone, and taking risks to chase the things that truly matter. This newfound confidence and resilience have opened up new opportunities and given me a fresh perspective on what’s possible. Hoping to double down on fitness and get back into some of the things I love this year – biking, hiking, basketball, maybe pick up pickleball – who knows!
Top 5 Travel Highlights of 2024
(New Locations I visited)
As a New Yorker, I’m no stranger to chasing the best experiences, and 2024 delivered in spades. While Spain will always have my heart and soul, this year brought some new places into my life that left a lasting impression. These five destinations—each distinct in vibe and energy—offered adventure, culture, and some of the best food I’ve ever tasted.
1. Anantara, Abu Dhabi
Picture this: a private suite in the desert, camel rides under the blazing golden sun, and tearing up dunes on an ATV. Anantara Abu Dhabi was the definition of effortless luxury. Add in dining under a sky full of stars, with perfectly grilled meats and the freshest hummus I’ve ever tasted, and it was a trip that blended adventure and indulgence like no other.
2. Mexico City
Mexico City doesn’t just have energy—it *is* energy. Staying at the Four Seasons Mexico City, with its lush courtyard and stunning restored architecture, set the tone. But the food? Game-changing. From street tacos that had me shamelessly going back for thirds to high-end spots that turned Mexican cuisine into pure art, every bite was a revelation. Throw in bold street art, historic charm, and a city that never stops moving, and I left buzzing.
3. Croatia
Croatia was straight-up magical. Think postcard-perfect beaches, medieval towns, and seafood so fresh it felt like the Adriatic was served on a plate. Grilled octopus, buttery scampi, and olive oil that tasted like liquid gold were the stars of every meal. Add in a Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik, where the streets felt like a living movie set, and you’ve got a destination that delivered indulgence, culture, and serious wow moments.
4. Scotland
Scotland stole the show with its rugged beauty and timeless charm. Wandering Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets and staying at the **InterContinental Edinburgh The George** added a touch of elegance to the adventure. A visit to the Macallan Distillery, sipping world-class single malts, and (unsuccessfully) searching for Nessie in the Highlands were unforgettable highlights. Another gem? **Dowans Hotel**, a cozy and luxurious retreat in Speyside that perfectly complemented the breathtaking landscapes and hearty pub meals. Scotland’s combination of history, whisky, and postcard-worthy views makes it a destination I’ll keep coming back to.
5. Bordeaux & Carcassone, France
Bordeaux was like stepping into a French dream. Staying at the elegant **Hotel First Name Bordeaux** added a modern yet refined touch to the experience. Touring picturesque vineyards, sipping wines that tasted like perfection, and indulging in the region’s famous canelés—a caramelized pastry that’s as good as they say—was pure magic. The highlight? A stop in Carcassonne, where staying at the **Hotel de la Cité Carcassonne-MGallery** made me feel like royalty for a night. Bordeaux wasn’t just elegant—it was enchanting, with the kind of meals and memories that stick with you forever.
Each of these places left me feeling full—of inspiration, joy, and unforgettable meals. They weren’t just destinations; they were experiences that reminded me why I love to travel.
City Spotlight: Barcelona
(something new - will spotlight a new city each month this year)
Barcelona, a city that seamlessly blends old-world charm with vibrant modern energy, holds a special place in my heart. Known for its stunning architecture, buzzing neighborhoods, and delectable culinary scene, it’s a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re strolling down the historic streets of the Gothic Quarter, marveling at Gaudí’s masterpieces like La Sagrada Família, or soaking in the coastal vibes of Barceloneta, Barcelona invites you to savor every moment.
When it comes to food, Barcelona delivers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. My personal favorite, RAO, serves up exquisite Catalan cuisine with a creative twist—don’t skip their fresh seafood dishes! Casa Amalia Restaurant, tucked away near the bustling Mercat de la Concepció, is perfect for those craving traditional Catalan comfort food, while El Chigre 1769 combines modern dining with Asturian flavors and is always a must-visit when I’m in town. For a chic yet cozy vibe, Babula Bar 1937 impresses with its eclectic menu and warm atmosphere. And for those seeking a hidden gem, Corte y Brasa, recommended by a local connection, offers incredible grilled meats and an authentic, no-fuss dining experience.
Barcelona’s drinks scene is just as captivating. Dr. Stravinsky, a world-renowned cocktail bar, dazzles with its inventive drinks and artistic presentations. If you’re seeking elegance and sophistication, Sips is a must-visit, where each cocktail feels like a work of art. Pair these experiences with Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods—from the edgy, artsy streets of El Raval to the trendy vibes of El Born and the upscale allure of Eixample—and you’ll find that every corner of the city has its own unique personality waiting to be explored.
Beyond the city itself, Barcelona offers incredible day trip opportunities. A visit to Montserrat, with its breathtaking mountain views and historic monastery, is both inspiring and rejuvenating. The Roman ruins and coastal charm of Tarragona transport you back in time, while the sun-kissed beaches and turquoise waters of Costa Brava provide the perfect escape for those looking to unwind by the sea. And, of course, no trip to Barcelona is complete without experiencing the thrill of catching a match at Camp Nou, home to the iconic FC Barcelona—a team that is as much a cultural institution as it is a global sports phenomenon.
Barcelona is more than a destination—it’s a sensory journey that stays with you long after you’ve left. From the food and drinks to the history and culture, every moment spent here feels like magic. So, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Barcelona always has something new and unforgettable to offer. ✨
Happy New Year!!
Thanks for coming along for the ride—through the places, stories, and moments that make life so much richer. Here’s to 2025: a year of big adventures, good vibes, and keeping it real. May your travels take you somewhere unforgettable, your health keep you strong, and your kindness shine through—because the world could always use more of it. And when you’re ready to plan your next adventure, hit me up—I’ve got you covered. Let’s make this one count.
