And just like that—the travels are back! After months of staying grounded, I almost can’t believe I waited this long to dust off my suitcase. To be fair, there’s been something so lovely about the rhythm of being home—slower mornings, familiar routines, and the comfort of the everyday. But as with most things in life, balance is key. And for me, that balance often comes in the form of travel.
I’ve always believed in taking regular breaks. Without them, the risk of burnout creeps in quickly. A little time away, even just a change in scenery, has this magical way of recharging creativity. Travel sparks curiosity, invites rediscovery, and—let’s be honest—offers the most delicious opportunities to try new food. For me, that’s reason enough to pack a bag and go.
A Surprise Change of Plans
In my last post, I hinted at future travel plans, but life had a surprise waiting for me. An opportunity came up—unexpected, thrilling, and almost impossible to pass on. Where to? None other than Rome. Yes, Rome! A city that had been high on my list for ages suddenly became my next destination. With barely a week’s notice, I had to rearrange my schedule, plan quickly, and pull together a suitcase for a trip that turned out to be nothing short of unforgettable.
It was my first time in Italy, and the city won me over instantly. Between the rich tapestry of art, history, and family traditions, layered with modern charm, Rome felt like a feast for every sense. And of course, the food! Authentic pasta dishes, pizza straight out of wood-fired ovens, creamy gelato on warm afternoons—each meal was its own kind of adventure.
Walking Through History (and Burning Off the Gelato)
One of the best tips I was given before arriving was that walking is the ideal way to experience Rome. It turns out, it’s also the best way to balance out all those indulgent meals. Strolling through cobblestone streets, wandering from piazza to piazza, pausing at a café for a cappuccino—it made the city feel alive, approachable, and endlessly inspiring.
Of course, in a city where every corner is postcard-worthy, you want to keep things light while carrying the essentials. This is where my newest travel companion came in: the Brahmin Lane Crossbody.
The Perfect Travel Companion
I’ve always had a soft spot for Brahmin bags, and while I’ve loved my previous styles, Lane instantly won me over. Its round silhouette felt playful yet refined, and the Whiskey-colored Italian leather gave it a timeless appeal. It struck that perfect balance between vintage luxury and everyday versatility—exactly what you need when traveling.
What I loved most was the adaptability. With its adjustable strap, I could sling it across my body while exploring on foot or even hopping on a Vespa (a must in Rome!). When the moment called for something more polished—say, dinner under twinkling lights—I could simply carry it by hand, and it still looked effortlessly chic. And the neutral tone? It blended seamlessly with every outfit I packed, making it a true wardrobe chameleon.
The practicality didn’t stop at looks, either. The Lane Crossbody had just the right amount of space for the things I actually needed while out and about: my phone, wallet, lipstick, a city map, and of course, room for the occasional souvenir. Compact, comfortable, and stylish—it was as if the bag was designed with this very trip in mind.
A City That Captures the Heart
But beyond the outfits and accessories, what made Rome so unforgettable was the feeling it gave me. There’s a certain magic in walking through a place where the ancient and the modern coexist so beautifully. On one street, you’re gazing up at ruins that have stood for thousands of years; on another, you’re sipping espresso surrounded by chic boutiques and locals who make the art of living well look effortless.
It reminded me why I love traveling in the first place: to feel small in the presence of history, to taste flavors I can’t recreate at home, to hear a language sung all around me, and to find joy in the simplest rituals—like saying “prendiamo un caffè” and sharing a cappuccino at a sidewalk café.
Until the Next Adventure
This Roman holiday was just the beginning. In fact, I’ll be heading back to Italy again in April, and I already know the city will welcome me with more layers to uncover. Travel has that effect—it leaves you longing for more, knowing that one trip is never enough.
For now, I’m carrying with me the memories of cobblestone walks, plates of pasta shared under the stars, and the quiet thrill of experiencing a place for the very first time. Rome was everything I hoped it would be—and more. And as I sip my last cappuccino before moving on to the next stop, I can’t help but smile. The travels are back, and my heart couldn’t be fuller.
