When I fly...

This is my first blog from a series, that I intend to publish on LinkedIn. As I explored the idea about my first post, it struck me: why not make it about travelling? So, here we go. 

Traveling is one of the many perks of the business world. Among the jet-lagged days away from home, it is an opportunity for new experiences, friendships and business ventures. But the year 2020 was tough on us with the pandemic’s deleterious impact on both corporate and leisure tourism. These aren’t easy times for travel aficionados like me. After spending some time indoors, I decided to set out on a blogging journey, as I reminisced my escapades through the mountains, beach towns, mega cities and green forests. 

Honestly, I miss travelling and the opportunity to travel across the globe, more than ever now. I am grateful for the fact that I could visit many places over the past few years. Each city that I’ve visited had a story of its own and also had an impact on me. Among all of these travels, the fast-paced and vibrant New York City (NYC) definitely stands out.

Many firsts and lots of invaluable learning happened during this trip 

If you are a corporate professional, you’ll agree that, “Time is your most precious gift because you only have a set amount of it”. I live in Gurgaon and have been in the corporate sector for over 16 years now. Life in the big city can get demanding and sometimes, it’s hard to prioritize things we love, such as travelling. This is where business trips come to our rescue. 

• Visiting NYC was my first business travel abroad.
• It was the first time I was plunged into the unknown!
• It was also the first city I’d visited in the US, entrusted with big responsibilities while I represented my firm overseas for the first time.

So this tour holds a special place in my heart.

Life lessons from NYC 

I visited the city in the month of December. What I loved most was how the city never slept and never stopped moving. Apart from the luxe hotels and restaurants, that I obviously enjoyed, what enthralled me more was how NYC inspired a sense of wonder and discovery in me.

I have “chopped” my experiences down to 7 life lessons (or bite-sized takeaways), listed below: 

Suit up and pace up!

The most common trait attributed to New York is its pace. The city operates at a break-neck speed. People here are always on the go and I noticed that there is a higher level of energy here, than at most other places. Walking quickly here isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, it’s more like a point of pride for the folks. Also, when you are in Manhattan, you are surrounded by a bunch of highly motivated, ambitious and intelligent people 24/7.

Realize your ambitions

New York’s glittering skyline is always lit up, no matter what! At some level, the soaring buildings epitomize your ambitions, to move upward in life. Even today, I could lull myself to sleep right away with the vibrant lights of the Empire State Building! Standing in the middle of bustling Times Square is an overwhelming experiences for first timers. That’s when I realized my memories from NYC would last a lifetime and beyond.

Make friends

You are never alone in this magical city! Just peek outside the window, and you can see the streets buzzing with people. Also, there is an endless possibility of building great connections and making friends for life.

Embrace diversity and inclusivity

NYC is certainly a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities and people, from all over the world! The city’s vibes encourage diverse cultures to assimilate and yet, exist in harmony. Flavors brought in by immigrants like music, food, fashion, religion, and more, have actually become a part of NYC’s own framework. No wonder it is called the cultural capital of the world!

Keep digging and experimenting

The restaurants are incredible here! Being a foodie myself, I was quite impressed by the side-street snack baskets. That being said, I feel NYC is home to the “best pizzas and bagels” in the world.

Keep exploring

The unbeatable blend of never-ending shopping experiences, the peace of the Upper East Side and the vibrancy of Midtown East — along with a comfortable 24/7 transport — means there’s so much to explore in the five boroughs. And then, there’s the suburbs too.

Experience serenity of a different kind

New York is loud, all the time. Yet, it is full of hope every single day. Once you are there, you will definitely find the silence within — which will make your time in the city all the more beautiful. 

In my opinion, the exposure to new places, exploration of new culinary terrains and getting to meet new people, can be eye opening experiences for anybody! Travel helps me appreciate the fact that in the grand scheme of things, there is no limit. So, I try to enjoy every moment during these trips and hold on to those precious memories forever.  

I will share another story about my travel expeditions soon. Until then take care and stay safe!