A “Rheset” in New York
Travel is my form of escapism. I wouldn’t say it’s my way of running away from my problems, but when life starts to feel a bit suffocating, galavanting to another country feels like the biggest exhale. That’s why I booked a spontaneous trip to New York. I can’t exactly say it was like a breath of fresh air because we all know the musk and lingering smell of urine that awaits you in this city; therefore, I will describe it as rejuvenating.
Yes, an island girl going to a city during the winter for a reset sounds odd, but as the kids say, it was something to take the edge off. So, before I babble more, here’s what a reset in New York City looked like for me.
A Whole Lot to See and Do
Let’s start by talking about what I actually had planned. I was staying with one of my best friends, so a few days before my trip, she messaged me with our itinerary, entitled "New York Miniute 2.0”— our inside joke, which pays homage to a beloved Mary Kate and Ashley movie.
My trip started with a snowstorm, an 8-hour delay, and an expensive Uber ride. Nonetheless, after a power nap, I had brunch at The Harold in the heart of Herald Square. My order was the normal breakfast favourites, eggs, potatoes, bacon, and toast, but with a refreshing Harold Cocktail on the side. The cocktail consisted of gin, elderflower, lemon juice, fresh basil, and was topped off with prosecco…absolutely yummy. However, The Harold apparently shut down on December 31st, so you will just have to trust me that it was delightful.
Then my inner child took over and had a joyful time on the Christmas Carousel. From there, I visited Bryant Park, roamed the Christmas Markets, and took a photo with the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree.
I love museums, and this time around, I finally made it to the Museum of Ice Cream, which was fun, cute for photos, had a lot of ice cream, but I can’t say I learnt anything. On the other hand, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) had so much to explore and discover. The featured exhibit was Divine Egypt, which showcased the imagery, objects, and deities from ancient Egypt. Apart from that, the museum features so many breathtaking installations spanning many continents and time periods. And, it’s also the home of the MET Gala, so of course I had to have my moment on the stairs.
However, the true show stopper of the itinerary was watching the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. It was the best gift from my twin, and as a former dancer, all I can say is those ladies are impeccable.
Leave Room to Wander
I am a firm believer that your itinerary should have open days where you can simply get lost and wander. My favourite part of my trip was exploring the city alone, stumbling upon new and old gems. For instance, getting off at the wrong stop led me to The Donut Hub in SOHO and the most divine French Cruller. My search for an Apple Store reconnected me with my long-time love, Los Tacos NO.1. Reaching out to an old friend ended with axe-throwing on a random Tuesday at Kick Axe Throwing Brooklyn, and learning what weapon will NOT be my first choice during the apocalypse.
Moving along, I need to give props to TikTok and a good ole late-night doom scroll for adding some magic to my trip. I saw this video where you could go to Times Square and write a wish on the confetti that is released during the New Year’s Eve Ball drop. Of course, I stood in that line in the cold for an hour to write my manifestation for 2026, and it felt magical. I’m sorry, but small things like these make my little heart quiver and bring me joy.
Adding New Things to the Bucket List
Speaking of joy, taking an Aerial Lyra class was a huge highlight of my trip and unlocked a new bucket list item. I am an aerialist, skilled at aerial hammock, but I wanted to try a new apparatus. There are so many types of aerial forms, but the lyra (hoop) has always been on my list to try. Aerial Arts NYC was the studio I chose, and I picked a good one. It was easy to book and find, the atmosphere and energy were good, and the instructor was very friendly and knowledgeable. Now, every time I travel, I have to go to an aerial class.
Food that makes you dance
Lastly, let’s get into the food. I mainly ate delicious home-cooked food, but I did find some eats around the city that made me do a bougie twerk…internally. Here’s my list and my recommendations of what you should try.
The Donut Hub (SOHO) – French Cruller
Los Tacos NO.1 – 1 Grilled chicken and 1 Grilled Steak Taco on flour tortillas with a Mexican Coke.
Levant on Smith (Brooklyn) – Duck Confit and the Crème Brûlée (soooo good)
Five Senses Korean Cuisine - Mandu (pork dumplings)
Milk Bar – Birthday Cake (Best cake everrrr)
San Mazano NYC – Pappardelle with Bolognese
Cava - A bowl with Grilled chicken, Saffron rice, tzatziki, red pepper hummus, lemon herb, tahini, Feta, Greek vinaigrette, corn, broccoli
I have to mention I tried Raising Cane’s, which was good, but it didn’t even make me shimmy.
Thank You, New York
New York has always held a special place in my heart. There’s something about that city that makes you feel alive, and I needed a little resuscitation after a very long 2025. Maybe if all the geopolitical issues calm down, I may consider a longer stint in one of my fave cities.