A special trip to New York

Hi, I’m Flavia, and like most of us here at Importante and La Casa, I love travelling! There’s nothing quite like discovering new places, soaking in different cultures, and, of course, indulging in amazing food along the way. This trip to New York was particularly special because I got to meet my parents there—they flew in from Brazil, and we spent some unforgettable days together in the city that never sleeps. Unlike previous visits, I skipped most of the tourist attractions and immersed myself in the local lifestyle. Despite the fast-paced energy of New York, I took my time wandering through charming little streets, discovering cosy coffee shops, and soaking in the everyday rhythm of the city at a more leisurely pace.

Being in New York just before Christmas was a unique experience. The city was alive with festive music playing on every corner, the scent of hot chocolate filling the air, and the crisp winter chill adding to the cosy atmosphere. Even the cold, though slightly unpleasant at times, made everything feel even more magical. Luckily, my Nikolina jumper by STAPF kept me warm throughout the trip, and my Beata handwoven hat by Len & Spolka was a lifesaver against the icy breeze. The holiday spirit was everywhere, bringing back memories of special moments from the past.

Some of my favourite outings included watching the world go by in Central Park, visiting MoMA, and strolling through the stylish streets of SoHo. I loved the buzz of the Union Square street fair, wandering through Williamsburg, admiring the street art, and exploring The High Line, Meatpacking District, and Chelsea. Each place had its own unique charm and energy, making the city feel even more dynamic and alive.

The highlight of my trip was definitely the food. I had some of the most memorable meals, from the best cookie I’ve ever had at Levain Bakery to an indulgent Croque Monsieur at Boucherie in West Village. La Pizza & La Pasta at Eataly served up a delicious pumpkin ravioli, while Kashkaval Garden impressed me with Mediterranean flavours and a rich cheese fondue. I loved the cosy atmosphere and fresh food at Amy’s Bread, and the burger at Au Cheval was simply unbeatable. And of course, as a Brazilian, I couldn’t miss out on Fogo de Chão for an authentic churrasco experience!

Although New York is known for its consumer-driven culture, shopping wasn’t my main focus on this trip. Still, I enjoyed visiting a few select stores, like FARM Rio for a touch of Brazilian fashion, West Elm in Brooklyn for home inspiration, and Macy’s to take in its famous Christmas lights. Philip Williams Posters, Anthropologie, a giant Patagonia, and the quirky décor store Coming Soon were also highlights. Throughout my trip, my Vespino bag and Firenze pouch from Inkolives, both in black, were the perfect travel companions. They matched every outfit and made exploring the city effortless—stylish, practical, and just the right size for my urban adventures.