I just returned from my first-ever international trip, and the excitement still hasn’t worn off. The destination? The United States of America—a country that felt like stepping into a movie set, full of iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. My journey spanned San Francisco, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and New York City, and each stop offered something uniquely unforgettable.
The first major landmark I explored was the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge—a masterpiece of engineering and beauty, offering stunning views of the Bay and the skyline. At Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, I soaked up the waterfront vibes, wandered through lively shops, and was delighted by the sea lions lounging lazily in the sun. I also took some time to explore Union Square, a shopper’s paradise full of big-name brands, buzzing cafés, and beautiful street corners. A hike along Devil’s Slide Trail and a stroll on Pacifica Pier gave me a taste of California’s coastal beauty. One of the coolest experiences was riding in a Waymo One autonomous robotaxi—a driverless car that made me feel like I was living in the future.
From San Francisco, I flew to Las Vegas, where the shift in energy was immediate. The city was alive with neon lights, music, and an irresistible buzz. Just outside the chaos of the Strip, I visited Red Rock Canyon—a nature lover’s paradise. The red sandstone formations were stunning, and the peaceful desert contrast was a much-needed breath of fresh air. Back on the Strip, the Las Vegas Sphere blew my mind with its futuristic LED displays and immersive architecture. I strolled past world-famous casinos and themed hotels, caught some dazzling live performances, and gave the slot machines a try—just for fun! Between the sights and the sounds.
Next stop: Los Angeles. Day one began at the iconic Griffith Observatory, perched high above the city in Griffith Park. From there, I soaked in panoramic views of Downtown LA, the Hollywood sign, and even glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. The next day, I checked off a major bucket-list item—Disneyland! I wandered through Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Adventureland, experiencing all the magic I had only seen in movies.
My journey wrapped up in the unforgettable city of New York. My first stop was the majestic Statue of Liberty—a powerful symbol of freedom and resilience. I took in the views from the ferry and stood in awe as I approached Lady Liberty. One of the highlights was walking the historic Brooklyn Bridge at sunset. Fun fact: Shah Rukh Khan shot a scene here for Kal Ho Naa Ho, and standing where Bollywood met NYC felt surreal. I also visited the deeply moving 9/11 Memorial, where two massive reflecting pools mark the footprints of the Twin Towers. The silence, the names etched in stone, and the stillness of the water—all made it a moment of quiet reflection.
Another incredible experience was riding the Roosevelt Island Tramway—an aerial cable car that gave me stunning views of the city skyline from above the East River. In Lower Manhattan, I visited Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), and of course, the famous Charging Bull. I made sure to rub its nose for good luck! No visit to NYC is complete without a night at Times Square, and I stayed past midnight just to watch the massive digital billboards refresh at exactly 12:00 AM—a truly magical, high-energy spectacle that gave me goosebumps.
New York’s food scene was just as thrilling. I devoured a classic New York-style pizza slice, grabbed hot street pretzels, and found myself reaching for bagels and cream cheese every other morning. The diversity of food in the USA was as exciting as its cities—whether it was a customized Chipotle bowl, a loaded burger, or something sweet from a
food truck, every bite felt like a cultural experience. Another culinary highlight of the trip was dining at BUNGALOW the Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Vikas Khanna.
This journey across the USA was more than just a trip—it was a dream come true. I came back with a heart full of memories, a camera full of photos, and a mind already dreaming of the next destination.