On My Radar...

and a little PSA

Hi,

Two weeks ago, I shared a piece I wrote about Vogue and the frontlines, something I felt particularly proud of. In its wake, I noticed a few unsubscribes. Thankfully, that doesn’t happen often (truly, thank you for sticking around!), but it did prompt me to pause and reflect.

Back in undergrad and throughout grad school, my dream was to work at the United Nations or a similar institution, advocating for a more just and equitable world. However, the realities of that path—along with the emotional toll it took—eventually led me to pivot. In 2014, I launched my travel blog as a way to channel my voice and passions… and here we are today.

For the past decade, my work has centered on travel—exploring places, stories, and cultures that connect us all. Lately, though, I’ve been finding my way back to my roots, reconnecting with the causes and values that first inspired me. It’s felt like returning home, blending my love for storytelling with a drive to create meaningful change by focusing on issues like social justice. But honestly, I’m still figuring it all out. Aren’t we all?

What does this mean for you? It means that the stories I share may expand to include not only slow travel conversations and lifestyle musings (like the Prada headband I tried on two weeks ago that’s been on my wishlist - keep scrolling; I linked her below) but also more on international human rights and global issues—topics that inform, inspire, and spark meaningful conversations. After all, I can’t just let my M.S. in International Human Rights from NYU go to waste…jk, or maybe not. 😉

What I’ve come to understand is that life isn’t one-dimensional. Our passions are multifaceted, and as we grow and evolve, it’s essential to embrace all the different parts of ourselves. I’m grateful to share this space with you as a lifestyle curator and journalist, and I hope it serves as a reminder for us all to keep growing and embracing the unique qualities and quirks that make us who we are. We’re all on this journey together, learning, growing, and becoming the fullest version of ourselves.

Here, you can expect a mix of thought-provoking conversations on global issues, along with insights on travel, lifestyle, and the occasional indulgence—if that resonates with you. But if this version doesn’t quite align with where you are right now, no hard feelings at all. I completely understand if you decide to unsubscribe.

Thank you for being here. Truly. xx

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Top Image: The Seed of the Sacred Fig, Middle Row: First Lady Olena Zelenska for Vogue, photographed by Annie Leibovitz, Bottom Image: A still captured by me from the documentary Bread and Roses

Good Knowledge | Curated reads, films, and resources to inspire your journey as a traveler and global citizen.

• 📚 I’ve put together a curated list of books—check it out! For now, the focus is on human rights, but I’ll be adding more topics soon, including travel and lifestyle.

• 🎬 This movie blew me away. The Seed of the Sacred Fig sheds light on the courage and complexity of political activism in Iran, exploring the profound personal sacrifices and collective resilience required to challenge oppressive systems. I highly recommend it to those interested in learning more about the realities of resistance and the enduring fight for justice in the face of adversity. It’s a must-watch for anyone passionate about human rights, activism, and the stories that shape our world. If you're in New York City - the film is at the Walter Reade Theater in Lincoln Center.

• 🌹 The latest documentary, Bread and Roses, now streaming on Apple TV, delivers a powerful look at women's lives in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. Directed by Sahra Mani and produced by Jennifer Lawrence, the film highlights Afghan women's resilience, courage, and unyielding spirit in fighting for their rights amidst oppression. After watching, I sat quietly, overwhelmed with gratitude, reflecting on the privilege and freedoms I often take for granted. It reminded me how lucky I truly am and of our responsibility to stand for those who still fight for the fundamental rights we too easily overlook.

• 📚 Ukraine's First Lady, Olena Zelenska, is preserving the nation's culture and history one book at a time. Recently, she spoke with Harvard University about her initiative, "Books without Borders," which ensures displaced Ukrainian children have access to literature from their homeland. These efforts preserve Ukrainian culture and offer a sense of continuity and connection for those affected by conflict. They are a powerful reminder of how literature can transcend borders and keep cultures alive. #CulturalPreservation #BooksWithoutBorders

Cositas on My Radar | Wishlist + Purchases

• When I go back to Spain, I’ll stay here. Give me a horse ranch any day, and I’ll be the happiest girl around!

• I walked into Prada to try on the headband that’s been on my wishlist—it gave me full-on Blair Waldorf vibes.

• I have a problem, and it’s called Miu Miu. While Prada masters clean lines and timeless sophistication, Miu Miu is its effortlessly cool, and rebellious little sister—the one who always surprises you with her playful edge. I am currently obsessing over these, these, and these (yes, my expensive shoe habit is very real!). 😅 Oh, and one more thing—have you seen Miu Miu Tales? It’s a series of short films commissioned by the brand and created by an incredible lineup of female filmmakers. Each film dives into unique perspective of femininity and identity. Told you—she really is the cooler younger sis. :)

• Slow Roads has one of the best Instagram accounts but did you know they also had a shop?! The curation of treasures from around the world is perfection.

• I recently purchased this makeup brush holder for travel, but I also love how it keeps my brushes covered from dust at home.

• New Yorkers will get this. :)