Nashville
Nashville, the Music City, where southern charm meets a vibrant music scene! I’ve been fortunate enough to visit, and every trip has been filled with live music, delicious food, and tons of fun.
One of the highlights of my Nashville visit was the Tipsy Bike Tour around the city. It was a blast, cruising through the streets with a drink in hand, seeing all the iconic spots, and soaking in the energy of the city. We made our way down Broadway Street, where the neon lights and honky-tonk bars set the perfect stage for a night out.
After the bike tour, we headed to a show at one of the coolest spots in the city, the 5-story nightclub. The live music and electric atmosphere made it an unforgettable night. It was a true taste of Nashville’s nightlife, where the music never stops, and the energy never fades.
Of course, no visit to Nashville would be complete without diving into the local cuisine. I can’t resist grabbing a hot, crispy hot chicken sandwich (a Nashville specialty), and there’s nothing like a plate of biscuits and gravy to start your day right. I also made sure to check out a few of the city’s famous barbecue joints—because let’s be real, you can’t visit Tennessee without trying some!
Another spot you can visit which i missed and would be sure to if i return, is the Country Music Hall of Fame, where the history of country music is brought to life. It’s not just for country fans; the museum’s exhibits are fascinating, and the building itself is worth a visit. I also checked out the Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” where some of the biggest names in music have performed.
3 Nights Is Perfect for Nashville: While Nashville has a lot to offer, I recommend staying for 3 nights at most to hit the major spots without feeling rushed. You’ll have time to explore the best of the city’s food, music, and nightlife!
Hit Up Honky-Tonk Row: Broadway is where Nashville’s nightlife happens. Check out iconic spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World for live music and dancing, day or night.
Take a Nashville Pedal Tavern Tour: A must-do if you’re with a group of friends. Pedal through Nashville while sipping drinks, jamming to music, and seeing the city in a fun way.
Explore the Street Art in East Nashville: Wander through the artsy streets of East Nashville, where you'll find amazing murals, quirky cafés, and local shops. Perfect for photo ops!
Chill at The Gulch: One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Nashville, with upscale bars, local boutiques, and cool spots like Barista Parlor for coffee and The 404 Kitchen for dinner.
Dance at a 5-Story Nightclub: For a wild night, head to places like Wildhorse Saloon, where you can dance, enjoy live country music, and make memories.
Relax at Radnor Lake State Park: If you need a break from the busy city, head to Radnor Lake for some peaceful hiking or a picnic with gorgeous nature views.
Experience Live Music at The Basement East: A laid-back venue with local bands and indie artists. Perfect if you want a more intimate, authentic Nashville music experience.
Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame: Dive into Nashville’s rich musical history and discover artifacts from country music legends. A must for music lovers.
New York
Spending 3.5 months living in New York City was an unforgettable experience. I lived on the coast in Long Island, just 40 minutes from the city, which gave me the perfect mix of beachside relaxation and fast-paced city life.
From day one, I embraced everything NYC had to offer, from trying all the American food (because let's be real, the portions are next level) to exploring some of the city's most iconic landmarks.
Top Experiences from My NYC Stay
Empire State Building Views – Taking in the skyline from the tip-top of the Empire State Building was a surreal moment. Seeing the city lit up at night was even more magical.
Boat Ride to the Statue of Liberty – Nothing beats sailing down the Hudson and getting up close to Lady Liberty. It’s one of those must-do experiences that makes you appreciate the city’s history.
The Ultimate Broadway Show – The Lion King – Seeing The Lion King on Broadway was absolutely incredible. The production, the costumes, and the music made it one of the best performances I’ve ever seen.
Tourist Vibes & Sky-High Views – I went full tourist mode and visited places like The Vanderbilt Building and The Edge Lookout, both offering insane panoramic views of NYC.
Cycling Through Central Park on an Electric Bike – This was hands down my favorite way to explore the park! Effortlessly cruising through the greenery, seeing the street performers, and taking in the fresh air was a perfect escape from the chaos of the city.
Navigating the Subway to Yonkers – NYC’s subway system is an adventure in itself. One of my most memorable rides was heading up to Yonkers, giving me a taste of a different side of New York.
The Best of Both Worlds: Beach & City Life
One of the most unique parts of my NYC experience was having the best of both worlds—spending time in the city’s hustle and bustle, then escaping to the beach club where I lived for the summer. The contrast between the non-stop city energy and the laid-back coastal lifestyle made my time in New York even more special.
Living in NYC truly opened my eyes to a completely different culture. The city is fast-paced, full of diversity, and offers endless food, entertainment, and adventure. From discovering hidden cafés to experiencing the luxury of city and beach life combined, every day was something new.
Would I do it all over again? In a heartbeat!
Stay for At Least 4-5 Days: NYC is huge, and there’s so much to see. A quick weekend won’t cut it, so aim for at least 4-5 days to hit the must-sees without feeling rushed.
Use the Subway Like a Local: It’s the fastest and cheapest way to get around. Grab a MetroCard or use your phone to tap and pay. Avoid taxis and Ubers unless absolutely necessary—they’re expensive and traffic is brutal.
Explore Beyond Manhattan: Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx all have amazing spots. DUMBO for skyline views, Williamsburg for cool cafés, and Astoria for incredible food are just a few must-visit areas.
Go for Iconic Skyline Views: The Empire State Building is great, but The Edge, One Vanderbilt, and Top of the Rock give you even better panoramic views with fewer crowds.
See a Broadway Show (Buy Discounted Tickets!): Broadway is a must, but tickets can be pricey. Check out TKTS booths for same-day deals, or book in advance for better prices.
Try ALL the NYC Food: Pizza at Joe’s, bagels from Ess-a-Bagel, a classic NYC diner breakfast, and of course, some street cart hot dogs—you have to try them all.
Walk as Much as Possible: Some of the best NYC experiences happen when you’re just wandering. Stroll through Central Park, the West Village, and SoHo, and let the city surprise you.
Visit Museums on Free or Discount Days: Many museums, including The Met and MoMA, have free or pay-what-you-wish days. Plan ahead and save cash!
Experience NYC at Night: The city truly comes alive after dark. Check out a rooftop bar, take a night cruise on the Hudson, or just walk through Times Square and enjoy the lights.
Be careful of pick pocketing!
Orlando
Orlando was non-stop fun—theme parks, wild rides, giant water slides, and unforgettable nights out. It’s the kind of trip where you’re constantly on the move, running on adrenaline, snacks, and sheer excitement.
We kicked things off at EPCOT, and honestly, it was a total surprise highlight. We wandered through the World Showcase, where you can eat, drink, and shop your way through 11 countries—all in a day. Sushi in Japan, pretzels in Germany, margaritas in Mexico? Yes please. The vibes were immaculate, and the details in each pavilion were unreal.
We rode Soarin’ Around the World (a must), got way too into Spaceship Earth, and ended the night with the new Luminous fireworks show over the lake—absolutely stunning.
Next stop: Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter totally lived up to the hype—drinking Butterbeer, riding Escape from Gringotts, and walking through Diagon Alley felt like stepping into the films. And over in Islands of Adventure, VelociCoaster was pure chaos in the best way.
To cool off, we spent a day at Volcano Bay, Universal’s water park paradise. The Krakatau Aqua Coaster was unreal, and the lazy river (plus frozen drinks in cabanas) gave us major chill time. Pro tip: the TapuTapu wristbands let you reserve rides and avoid lines—total lifesaver.
When the sun went down, we hit Señor Frog’s on I-Drive, and it was a party. Think neon lights, massive frozen cocktails, games, dancing, and a lot of loud music. It’s pure holiday chaos, and we loved every second.
Other gems? A spin on The Wheel at ICON Park for skyline views, and shopping ‘til we dropped at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets (seriously, the deals).
Orlando is more than just theme parks—it’s adventure, energy, and a little bit of magic in every corner. Just make sure to pack your comfiest shoes and a backup battery—your camera (and feet) will be working overtime.
Already dreaming of going back… and eating around the world again.
Currency & Costs: Orlando uses USD ($): Theme parks aren’t cheap—budget for tickets, food, and extras like Genie+ or Express Passes.
Getting Around: Renting a car gives you freedom, but Uber and Lyft work great too, especially around I-Drive and the parks. Parking fees at hotels and parks can add up!
Park Planning: Book tickets in advance, download park apps (like My Disney Experience or Universal’s), and arrive early. Make dining reservations ahead for Disney!
Stay Cool: Florida heat is no joke—pack sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, portable fan, and comfy shoes. Expect sudden rain, so a poncho or rain jacket is a must too.
Use the Apps: Disney and Universal apps show wait times, mobile food ordering, and park maps. Game-changer for navigating and saving time.
Don’t Skip EPCOT: It's not just for adults! Great rides (Soarin’, Guardians of the Galaxy) and the World Showcase is perfect for food, drinks, and chill vibes.
Take a Break: Rest days are key. Hit a water park like Volcano Bay, or unwind with shopping at the outlets or a chill night on I-Drive.
Nightlife Vibes: For a fun evening, head to Señor Frog’s, ICON Park, or CityWalk at Universal for food, drinks, and entertainment.
Pack a Park Bag: Bring a small backpack with essentials: water, snacks, poncho, portable charger, and hand sanitizer.
Expect to Walk (a LOT): Most parks are huge—10k+ steps per day is normal. Break in your shoes before the trip!
Miami
Miami was everything we hoped for—sun-drenched days, palm-lined streets, turquoise water, and serious energy. We stayed in Brickell, the city’s sleek downtown district, surrounded by skyscrapers, rooftop bars, and that unmistakable Miami vibe.
We spent mornings wandering through Brickell City Centre, grabbing iced coffee, doing a little shopping, and soaking in the buzzing city atmosphere. It felt modern, polished, and full of life.
Of course, no trip to Miami is complete without a day at South Beach. The Art Deco buildings, rollerbladers cruising past, and clear blue water—it was giving exactly what we came for. We lounged on the sand, took a dip in the ocean, and people-watched to our heart’s content.
We also explored the more peaceful side of Miami with a visit to Key Biscayne. It was a whole vibe—calmer, greener, and perfect for a break from the party pace. The beaches there are gorgeous, with soft sand and fewer crowds, and the views of the Miami skyline from the bridges were next-level.
One of the biggest highlights? A boat tour around Star Island. It was full-on luxury sightseeing—mega mansions, waterfront estates, and that classic Miami glam. We may not own a yacht (yet), but we definitely felt like we belonged on one for a minute.
For dinner and drinks, we hit up Kiki on the River—and it was the moment. Set right on the waterfront, the vibes were immaculate. Great music, flowing cocktails, candlelit tables, and a crowd that looked like they stepped out of a magazine. By sunset, the place turned into a mini party, and we were so here for it.
Miami gave us the perfect mix of city, beach, and boujee. From chill beach days to rooftop cocktails and boat rides past celebrity homes, every moment was extra—but in the best way.
Definitely not a one-time destination—we’ll be back for round two (with maybe a yacht of our own next time… goals, right?).
Currency & Costs: Miami uses USD ($). It’s not the cheapest city—budget for dining, drinks, and activities, especially in South Beach and Brickell.
Getting Around: Use Uber or Lyft—parking is expensive and traffic is hectic. For beach days, consider bike or scooter rentals along Ocean Drive or the boardwalk.
What to Wear: Stylish but comfy—think swimsuits, sunnies, linen shirts, and something cute for rooftop bars or waterfront dinners. Miami is all about the look.
Must-See Areas:
South Beach: Iconic vibes, art deco, and turquoise water.
Brickell: Sleek city energy, rooftop bars, and great dining.
Key Biscayne: Chill beaches and nature, perfect for a quieter escape.
Wynwood: Street art, galleries, and cool cafés.
Food & Drink: Book ahead for hotspots like Kiki on the River. Try Cuban coffee, ceviche, and hit Little Havana for local flavors and music.
Nightlife Tips: Dress up and book in advance—places like LIV, Story, and waterfront spots fill up fast. For fun vibes, Señor Frog’s on South Beach delivers the party.
Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, portable fan, reusable water bottle, and a day-to-night outfit—you’ll likely go straight from beach to dinner.
Boat Tour Must-Do: A Star Island cruise is a fun way to see the luxe side of Miami. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrity mansions!
Visiting Chicago in winter was a whole new experience—freezing, but totally worth it! I went to see a friend who lives there, and of course, I made sure to hit all the must-see spots. The Bean was just as cool in real life as in the photos, and ice skating beside the frozen lake felt like something out of a winter movie.
For a little escape from the city, I took a trip down to Urbana-Champaign, a classic college town with a cool vibe. And, of course, I couldn't visit Chicago without trying some iconic American food—from deep-dish pizza to local favorites, I definitely lived up to the full Chicago winter experience. Cold? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely!
Dress for the Weather: Chicago winters are freezing, so bring layers, a warm coat, gloves, and a hat. In summer, it’s hot and humid, so pack accordingly.
Try the Local Food: Don’t leave without eating deep-dish pizza (Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s), a Chicago-style hot dog, and Italian beef sandwiches.
Visit Millennium Park & The Bean: A must-see, especially in winter when you can go ice skating at Maggie Daley Park with a city skyline view.
Explore the Neighbourhoods: Beyond downtown, check out Wicker Park for trendy spots, Pilsen for street art and tacos, and Lincoln Park for a quieter vibe.
Take in the Skyline Views: Head up Willis Tower’s Skydeck or 360 Chicago (John Hancock Center) for incredible city views.
Use Public Transport: The CTA trains (‘L’ system) are the easiest and cheapest way to get around—skip expensive Ubers when possible.
Walk Along the Chicago Riverwalk: Even in winter, it’s a scenic stroll with cool architecture, but in warmer months, you can take a boat cruise or rent a kayak.
Visit a Museum: The Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, and Museum of Science and Industry are all worth a visit, especially on cold days.
Check Out a College Town: If you have time, take a trip to Urbana-Champaign for a different vibe with cool cafés, bars, and a classic college-town atmosphere.
Be Ready for the Wind: They don’t call it the Windy City for nothing! A windproof jacket is a must, especially in winter.