Monthly Archives: January 2025

In My Hands Today…

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Empresses of Seventh Avenue: World War II, New York City, and the Birth of American Fashion – Nancy MacDonell

Calvin Klein. Ralph Lauren. Donna Karan. Halston. Marc Jacobs. Tom Ford. Michael Kors. Tory Burch. Today, American designers are some of the biggest names in fashion, yet before World War II, they almost always worked anonymously. The industry, then centered on Seventh Avenue in Manhattan, had always looked overseas for “inspiration”—a polite phrase for what was often blatant copying—because style, as all the world knew, came from Paris.

But when the Nazis invaded France in 1940, the capital of fashion was cut off from the rest of the world. The story of the chaos and tragedy that followed has been told many times—but how it directly affected American fashion is largely unknown.

Defying the naysayers, New York-based designers, retailers, editors, and photographers met the moment, turning out clothes that were perfectly suited to the American way of life: sophisticated, modern, comfortable, and affordable. By the end of the war, “the American Look” had been firmly established as a fresh, easy elegance that combined function with style. But none of it would have happened without the influence and ingenuity of a small group of women who have largely been lost to history.

Empresses of Seventh Avenue will tell the story of how these extraordinary women put American fashion on the world stage and created the template for modern style—and how the nearly $500 billion American fashion industry, the largest in the world, could not have accrued its power and wealth without their farsightedness and determination.

2025 Top Travel Destinations

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As we look ahead to 2025, the travel landscape is evolving with emerging hotspots that promise unique experiences and cultural richness. So which destinations will trend in 2025? Read more to find out.

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Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is set to shine in 2025, boasting stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a diverse range of attractions. Known for its palm-fringed white sand beaches and mountainous jungles, it has seen a significant rebound in tourism post-COVID, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The opening of luxurious new accommodations and a growing interest in eco-tourism will enhance its appeal further, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.

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Montreal, Canada
Montreal is experiencing a renaissance as a cultural hub with its blend of European charm and North American vibrancy. In 2025, the city will host numerous festivals celebrating music, art, and gastronomy, attracting visitors eager to experience its rich cultural tapestry. The city’s renowned culinary scene, particularly its famous bagels, poutine, and historic architecture, makes Montreal an exciting destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.

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Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu remains a perennial favourite for travellers seeking history and adventure. The ancient Incan city offers breathtaking views and insights into Peru’s rich cultural past. With improved accessibility and guided tours expected in 2025, more visitors will have the opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, making it an essential stop for any traveller.

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Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is set to attract travellers with its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and passionate tango culture. In 2025, the city will host various cultural events that celebrate its artistic heritage while also showcasing modern innovations in music and dance. The city’s culinary scene is also booming, with new restaurants offering both traditional Argentine cuisine and contemporary fusion dishes.

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Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is emerging as a significant travel destination due to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant transformation. The city features an incredible blend of architectural styles, from Renaissance to Ottoman influences. Its thriving nightlife and evolving culinary scene are drawing tourists looking for an affordable European getaway with plenty of history.

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Albania
Albania is gaining popularity for its stunning Adriatic coastline and rich cultural heritage. With expectations of welcoming around 10 million visitors in 2025, Albania’s scenic beaches and affordable travel options are attracting international attention. The country’s designation as the host for ITB Berlin 2025 will further boost its visibility in the travel market.

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Lapland, Finland
Lapland is expected to trend in 2025 due to the peak visibility of the Northern Lights driven by heightened solar activity. Travellers are drawn to Lapland for its stunning winter landscapes and outdoor adventures like husky sledging. The whimsical charm of Santa Claus Village adds an extra layer of appeal for families looking for unique experiences.

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Great Karoo, South Africa
The Great Karoo is becoming popular due to its burgeoning astro-tourism sector, where visitors can enjoy stargazing experiences under dark skies. Its stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife make it an attractive destination for those seeking adventure in South Africa’s unique biomes.

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Cameroon
Cameroon is poised to take centre stage in 2025 with its rich cultural diversity and geographical variety, from coastal beaches to tropical rainforests. A recent visa-free travel policy has enhanced accessibility for visitors. At the same time, celebrating its independence anniversary will likely spark various cultural events appealing to travellers seeking authentic African experiences.

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Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has gained recognition as a destination due to its vibrant cultural heritage and culinary diversity. The annual Chiang Mai Food Festival highlights local cuisine while the city’s tranquil ambience attracts tourists looking for enriching experiences amidst historical architecture and outdoor activities.

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Osaka, Japan
Osaka is set to be a top travel destination in 2025 as it hosts the World Expo-themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” This event will showcase Japan’s advances in technology while highlighting Osaka’s rich culture through food and entertainment offerings that attract millions of visitors globally.

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Puducherry, India
Because of its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Puducherry is a trending travel destination in 2025. Known for its spiritual heritage centred around Sri Aurobindo Ashram, it attracts visitors seeking inner exploration alongside vibrant local crafts showcased during events like the Puducherry Heritage Festival.

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Shillong, India
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong captivates travelers with its picturesque hills and lush greenery. Its unique music festivals and community engagement initiatives position it as a premier destination for those seeking adventure combined with cultural richness.

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Raja Ampat Archipelago, Indonesia
The Raja Ampat Archipelago is recognised for its remarkable marine biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Known as the “Amazon of the Seas,” it attracts divers and nature enthusiasts eager to explore one of the most biodiverse marine regions on Earth while enjoying fewer crowds compared to more popular dive destinations.

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Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania is trending due to its culinary delights in Launceston and Tamar Valley and its renowned natural beauty that attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Events like the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race draw international attention, while tourism campaigns emphasise unique experiences across culture and nature.

As global travel continues to evolve post-pandemic with a focus on sustainability and authentic experiences, these hotspots are set not only to attract tourists but also to provide enriching journeys that resonate long after their return home. Travellers should consider these emerging destinations when planning their adventures for the coming year—each promising unforgettable memories amid breathtaking scenery or vibrant cultures waiting to be discovered!

In My Hands Today…

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The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore – Evan Friss

Bookstores have always been unlike any other kind of store, shaping readers and writers, and influencing our tastes, thoughts, and politics. They nurture local communities while creating new ones of their own. Bookshops are powerful spaces, but they are also endangered ones. In The Bookshop, we see those stakes: what has been, and what might be lost.

Evan Friss’s history of the bookshop draws on oral histories, archival collections, municipal records, diaries, letters, and interviews with leading booksellers to offer a fascinating look at this institution beloved by so many. The story begins with Benjamin Franklin’s first bookstore in Philadelphia and takes us to a range of booksellers including The Strand, Chicago’s Marshall Field & Company, Gotham Book Mart, specialty stores like Oscar Wilde and Drum and Spear, sidewalk sellers of used books, Barnes & Noble, Amazon Books, and Parnassus. The Bookshop is also a history of the leading figures in American bookselling, often impassioned eccentrics, and a history of how books have been marketed and sold over more than two centuries—including, for example, a 3,000-pound elephant who appeared to sign books at Marshall Field’s in 1944.

The Bookshop is a love letter to bookstores, a charming chronicle for anyone who cherishes these sanctuaries of literature, and essential reading to understand how these vital institutions have shaped American life—and why we still need them.

Mumbai Memories: My favourite Mumbai Photos

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As I mentioned previously, this year I will be posting posts about Mumbai, my childhood, and my grandparents under Mumbai Memories. So to kick off this series, here are some of my favourite photos of the city of my birth, Mumbai.

This photo was taken in 2022 and shows Mumbai around 2-2:30 am. During this trip, I flew to Mumbai to move my parents to the retirement community in Bangalore they currently are in. Because of COVID, I could only use a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) flight. This meant that I could not take a direct flight from Bangalore back to Singapore. So I flew back to Mumbai and then took a VTL flight back to Singapore. This was my first trip back home after the two-plus years of the pandemic.

The same image, but during the day! This was taken last year in 2023 when I went back to India to drop my parents back home after they spent a couple of months with us in Singapore. Because of my father’s condition, this was probably their last international flight. I flew to Mumbai on a day trip to take care of some bank business. This was on my flight back to Bangalore.

A photo again from my 2022 trip. This was taken during my morning walk on our building’s terrace. I had the entire terrace to myself since I used to walk around 5:30 am. I loved how the light played with the trees and the scenery and created this ethereal photo.

This photo is from 2019 on a trip to Elephanta Caves. I clicked this just as the boat left Gateway of India. The Gateway itself was closed due to some Navy ceremonies, and I couldn’t take any photos of this iconic structure. An arch-monument, the Gateway of India was completed in 1924 to commemorate the landing of George V for his coronation as the Emperor of India in December 1911, the first British monarch to visit India.

This last photo is again from the 2022 trip and from my building terrace. I used to enjoy the sunrises when I walked there, and the colours were simply amazing. I feel this photo looks like a painting, with the clouds creating illusions of peaks.

I have more photos coming up from my recent trip, so look out for them.

2025 Week 02 Update

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Today’s quote from Anne Lamott, an acclaimed American author, essayist, and speaker, is a witty yet profound reminder of taking breaks to restore balance and functionality. It draws a parallel between technology and human beings, suggesting that just as a malfunctioning device often needs to be powered down and reset, we too require moments of disconnection and rest to recharge. In our fast-paced world, people often equate busyness with productivity and success, neglecting the importance of downtime. Overworking without pause can lead to physical exhaustion, mental burnout, and emotional distress. Lamott’s quote encourages us to embrace self-care and prioritise rest as an essential component of a healthy, sustainable life. Returning from the constant demands of work, relationships, and modern technology allows us to regain clarity, creativity, and perspective.

This idea also touches on mindfulness—the practice of being present and attentive to our own needs. Pausing provides an opportunity to reconnect with our inner selves, evaluate what truly matters, and approach challenges with renewed energy and insight. In a society that often glorifies hustle, Lamott’s words challenge us to redefine productivity as something that includes intentional rest and reflection. The quote serves as a gentle reminder to practice self-compassion. Just as we would troubleshoot a device without blaming it for its temporary failure, we should treat ourselves with kindness and patience when we feel overwhelmed. Lamott invites us to embrace imperfection and recognize that taking a break is not a sign of weakness, but an act of wisdom and self-preservation. Ultimately, her message is one of balance: work and rest are not opposites but complementary forces that, when managed thoughtfully, lead to greater resilience, creativity, and well-being.

This week was a tame week, with nothing of note happening and life settling down to the new year after a long India trip. I’ve started planning for my trip later in the year, and our group chats have been blowing up almost every day with the planning process. I am so excited about this trip and fingers crossed everything goes well and I can check off some of my travel bucket list places.

BB had a long weekend this week because of some forced half day and leave, so he enjoyed his sudden break. GG had one class this week because the class would not happen later in the month due to the Lunar New Year, and school will officially start tomorrow. This is supposed to be a hard semester with almost all core subjects that are content-heavy, so she has already started on her reading to get a head start on her work.

That’s all from me this week. Stay positive and keep smiling!