Navigating the concrete jungle of New York City, I found myself crossing the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, a marvel that’s been standing since 1939. Interestingly, this bridge was once known to sway in the wind, earning the nickname “The Trembling Lady of the Bronx.” Today, it’s as sturdy as the unshakable resolve of New Yorkers, but back then, crossing it must have felt like a tipsy dance with fate – speaking of tipsy...

The real adventure began with a business meeting that would put any Hollywood script to shame. Picture this: a group of Russians, straight out of central casting, decked out in bright tracksuits that screamed ‘I’ve arrived, and I don’t care if you know it!’ After what must have been a wild night in the city, they were nursing hangovers that could rival the aftermath of a vodka revolution. As they argued animatedly about sales targets, their thick accents rolling over each other, one of them kept confusing Connecticut with Kentucky. It was like watching a live comedy show, but with PowerPoint slides and pie charts. The journey back to Boston through Connecticut was a quiet one, with everyone silently agreeing never to discuss the tracksuit diplomacy of New York again.

Traveling from Boston to the Twin Cities is an adventure that unfolds over 20 hours of scenic driving. Our journey kicked off with enthusiasm and a playlist full of classic road trip tunes. As we left the familiar streets of Boston, the landscapes gradually transformed, offering us a panoramic view of America’s diverse terrains. The highlight of our drive was the Chicago skyline, rising like a modern-day Olympus against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. Its towering skyscrapers and the shimmering reflection on the lake’s surface were a sight to behold, a perfect interlude before we delved into the heartland of America.

Upon reaching Minnesota, we were greeted by a winter wonderland, with over a meter of snow draping the landscape in a pristine white blanket. This was a stark contrast to the urban tapestry of Boston. Saint Paul, the cozier twin of the Twin Cities, welcomed us with its unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The City Hall, an art deco masterpiece, stood as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural ingenuity. Its grandeur was accentuated by the snow, making it look like a scene straight out of a classic holiday card.

The highlight of our visit was the “Let’s Play Hockey” exhibition, a paradise for hockey enthusiasts. Here, we were awestruck by Herb Brooks’ gold medal ring, a symbol of the legendary “Miracle on Ice.” This exhibition was not just a display of memorabilia but a journey through the history of hockey in Minnesota. Speaking of hockey, a visit to the Minnesota Wild home Arena was a must. The arena was buzzing with excitement, showcasing the state’s passion for the sport. We also had the opportunity to witness a high school hockey game, an experience that highlighted the sport’s deep roots in local culture.

Exploring the suburbs of Minneapolis was like stepping into a different world. The area’s tranquil neighborhoods, set against the backdrop of natural beauty, provided a serene escape from the bustling city life. The icy lakes and snow-covered parks offered a picturesque setting, perfect for leisurely walks and introspective moments. This was a chance to experience the everyday life of Minnesotans, adding a genuine touch to our travel diary.

The journey back to Boston was another 20-hour drive, retracing our steps through the heart of America. Passing through Chicago once again, we were reminded of the trip’s beginning, yet the experience felt entirely new with the memories we had created. A quirky highlight was finding a Sopranos-themed pinball machine at a gas station, an unexpected encounter that added a touch of humor to our road trip. As we approached Boston, the familiar skyline signaled the end of our journey, leaving us with unforgettable memories and stories to share. This trip wasn’t just a travel experience; it was a mosaic of America’s urban charisma, natural splendor, and the unifying spirit of hockey, all rolled into one epic road trip.

Gazing down from my window seat, the descent into Boston was a spectacle of serene beauty, as the city’s skyline emerged like a pop-up book from the misty Atlantic. The thrill of my first visit to this historic city had me glued to the window. As we glided over the Boston Harbor, its waters shimmered like a vast, liquid mirror, reflecting the city’s fusion of history and modernity. Little did I know that my trip would be as unpredictable as Boston’s notorious weather.

No sooner had I savored my first breath of crisp New England air than the skies decided to throw a curveball – a snowstorm, whimsical yet vigorous, began to blanket the city in a frosty embrace. Streets that were bustling with life a moment ago turned into a tranquil white canvas. It felt as if the city had donned a wedding dress, elegant and pristine. This unexpected twist led to an impromptu adventure, wandering the snow-laden paths and discovering the hidden beauty of Boston under a white veil.

Returning from a brief detour to Minnesota, Boston seemed to have performed a magic trick. The snowstorm’s remnants were gone, as if whisked away by a giant hand. The city now basked in the crisp clarity of post-storm sunshine. The Boston skyline, now unobstructed by flurries, stood proudly against a bright blue backdrop, its skyscrapers glinting like beacons of resilience.

My adventures took a scholarly turn as I strolled through the prestigious grounds of MIT. A chance encounter with the friendly MIT police added a dash of humor; they jokingly warned me about the ‘severe risk’ of acquiring sudden genius in the vicinity! The day continued with a walk to the serene Harvard Gardens, where budding spring flowers whispered the promise of renewal, juxtaposing the rigid intellectuality of the surrounding academia.

As my journey reached its end, and I found myself back home, reflections of my time in Boston danced in my mind. From the surprise snowstorm that turned the city into a winter wonderland to the intellectual aura of MIT and the tranquil beauty of Harvard Gardens – every moment was a chapter in a storybook experience. Boston, a city of unexpected weather, historic charm, and intellectual wonders, had left an indelible mark on my traveler’s heart.

In the whirlwind of experiences from my Boston escapade, I discovered the unpredictable joy of travel. Whether it’s the weather playing tricks or the charm of historic sites, every journey has its own story. Boston, you were an unexpected teacher, and I am a grateful student.

Visiting Las Vegas always feels like stepping into a whirlwind of energy and innovation, an experience amplified during my latest adventure for CES, the largest consumer electronics expo in the world. Having been to Las Vegas before, this trip stood out as it was my second time attending CES, where the cutting-edge of technology is unveiled.

Last year’s CES was all about actively showcasing our product. Caught up in the whirl of presentations, I hardly had a moment to share my experiences. This time, however, I absorbed every detail, immersing myself fully in the vibrant atmosphere of the show.

CES is more than just an expo; it’s a global stage for everyone from tech titans to emerging startups, all eager to impress and innovate. The range of products is astonishing – from televisions and cars to helicopters, cryptocurrencies, and smartphone accessories. It’s a place where the future of technology unfolds, with the notable exception of Apple, which usually opts out of the event.

However, this year, I noticed a sense of déjà vu with many exhibits. It appeared that a significant portion, around 80%, were repeats from last year, leaving only about 20% of the show dedicated to new innovations. This repetition was a bit of a letdown in the midst of the otherwise sparkling array of technology.

The expo is cleverly segmented into thematic sections, covering everything from sports to engineering. It sprawls across different venues in the city, creating a tech wonderland. For the second consecutive year, our booth was set up at the Sands Expo, which is conveniently located next to the Venetian Hotel. The main portion of CES took over the sprawling Las Vegas Convention Center.

The primary goal at CES is to maximize exposure for your product, showcasing it to the industry journalists who will then broadcast its story to the world. Having learned from my previous visit, I was better prepared this time with a few key strategies: scheduling meetings with journalists in advance, arriving in Las Vegas early to acclimate to the climate, starting booth setup a day before the expo opens, and maintaining high energy levels throughout the event.

To avoid the long lines and keep energy up, stocking up on coffee is a must. Bringing a large team is also beneficial. It allows for a balance between interacting with the press and exploring the rest of the exhibition, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the groundbreaking innovations on display.

An unforgettable part of my visit were the NHL hockey games, where the local Vegas Golden Knights faced off against the New Jersey Devils and the San Jose Sharks. The first game was a spectacle of fiery enthusiasm, resulting in a nail-biting 3-2 victory for the Knights. The second match, however, was a tough battle, and we witnessed a narrow 3-2 defeat. These exhilarating games added a dynamic layer of excitement to my CES experience in the ever-lively Las Vegas.

My first encounter with Boston was a brief whirlwind. With only two action-packed days filled with meetings, there was hardly any time to properly explore the city.

The urban landscape of Boston struck me as incredibly compact. It was fascinating to see the Crowne Plaza Hotel ingeniously built right over a highway, a testament to the city’s innovative use of space.

Despite the brevity of my visit, it was clear that Boston brimmed with intriguing sights and experiences. The glimpses I caught – the historic architecture, the bustling streets, and the vibrant cultural tapestry – left me determined to return and delve deeper into the city’s rich heritage and contemporary charm.

From my brief moments of exploration and the city views I captured, including a timelapse from Boston’s airport, I could tell that Boston is a city of layered histories and modern dynamism, promising much more to discover on future visits.

The Manitou Incline near Colorado Springs is a famed hiking trail that presents a unique challenge for both seasoned athletes and casual hikers. Spanning a horizontal distance of 1,420 meters, it ascends 613 meters – a steep gradient that means for every 2 meters walked horizontally, you climb 1 meter vertically. The trail culminates in 2,768 steps made from repurposed railroad ties, starting at an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level.

Local athletes often conquer the Incline in just 30 minutes, but for the average person, reaching the top can be a daunting, yet rewarding, endeavor.

Nearby, the Garden of the Gods, dusted in snow, offers a breathtaking spectacle. Its beauty in the wintery cloak is a sight to behold and a perfect complement to the rugged challenge of the Manitou Incline.

A notable highlight in the area is Pikes Peak, famous for the century-old ‘Race to the Clouds’ event. This snow-capped peak, visible to the right, stands as a majestic backdrop to the region, adding to the area’s natural grandeur and the sense of accomplishment that comes from exploring these remarkable trails and landmarks.

When visiting Lake Garda, indulge in some light-hearted travel antics for a truly memorable trip. Start by mastering the art of the Scaliger Castle selfie. It’s a rite of passage for every visitor! Get creative with your poses – perhaps mimic a medieval knight or a Venetian noble. And if you manage to get a duck in the frame, you’ve hit the jackpot. These feathered locals are known to photobomb tourists, adding an extra layer of fun to your pictures.

Embrace the culinary adventures that await by taking on the Gelato Gauntlet. Challenge yourself to sample a new gelato flavor daily, from the classic stracciatella to the adventurous olive oil. And while dining, try mastering the Italian art of pasta twirling. It’s a skill that, when perfected, earns you honorary Italian status. But beware, the path to perfection is paved with many a pasta fling. Remember, laughter is the best remedy for any accidental pasta mishaps!

Finally, blend in with the locals by steering clear of the classic tourist fashion faux pas – socks with sandals are a definite no-go! And keep an eye on the lake for the elusive ‘Lake Garda Monster.’ It’s a whimsical reminder that every ripple and wave holds a story, making your visit not just a journey but a tale to be told. Learning a bit of Italian can go a long way too, especially the essential phrases like “Dove il miglior gelato?” (Where’s the best gelato?). With these playful tips in mind, your Lake Garda adventure is sure to be filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable experiences.

My flight from Frankfurt to Denver on Lufthansa was a breathtaking journey. A previous trip to Vegas had taught me how to choose the best side of the plane for stunning views. The secret? Check the flight’s previous route and approach to landing on Flightradar24 to pick the perfect seat, considering the wing’s position.

Flying over the ocean, which looks the same from all sides, pales in comparison to the fascinating landscapes over land. Flying over Canada, I was surprised to find Quebec and Ontario, usually green on Google Maps, mostly barren in June, one of the Northern Hemisphere’s warmest months. The terrain resembled the moon’s crater-filled surface, eventually giving way to roads without houses, only appearing as we neared the U.S. border.

The confluence of the White River and Missouri in South Dakota was a spectacular sight, creating a unique natural phenomenon.

In Nebraska, circular fields soon turned into rectangular ones, creating a patchwork landscape.

The Westin at Denver Airport looked stunning, but this time, I opted for a homely stay in a cottage. Surprisingly, the interior felt twice as large as it appeared from outside. The first floor housed the kitchen, living room, and a bedroom, with more bedrooms upstairs. Sleeping there after the long flight was incredibly comforting.

Near Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods awaited with its striking red rocks and landscapes reminiscent of ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’.

The rest of Colorado evoked scenes straight out of ‘Far Cry 5.’

Before leaving, I had to stop at Old Chicago for some beers and a slice of their famous Chicago-style pizza. Enjoying a game at the bar, switching channels during ads, and savoring a piece of pizza was a delight, a culture sadly fading in Europe.

But the trip’s highlight was the unexpected finale. On the night flight home, I got to watch the 2018 Stanley Cup Final between Washington Capitals and Vegas Golden Knights live on Lufthansa. Witnessing Ovechkin’s joy at winning his first cup after 14 years in the NHL, 10,000 meters above the Atlantic, was an unforgettable experience.

My startup journey unexpectedly led me to Rome, Italy’s majestic capital, to participate in traditional ceremonies aimed at attracting luck and success. Ironically, despite my numerous visits to Italy, Rome had always eluded me.

On the night of May 13th, the streets of Rome were deserted, yet the city was far from asleep. The fate of the Italian Football Cup was being decided – Juventus, having confidently drawn 0:0 with Roma, clinched the Serie A title. The streets instantly erupted with crowds of jubilant fans, their joy palpable.

Rome’s architecture inspires genuine awe. To truly savor its splendor, one would need at least two weeks. There’s simply too much beauty and history to absorb.

I had the unique opportunity to visit places usually off the tourist trail: the Italian Forum and the Olympic Center. The Olympic Center is a beautifully maintained site, imbued with the triumphs of athletes.

Foro Italico, a group of sports facilities built in the late 1920s, exudes an imperial grandeur typical of Mussolini, who used sport to propagate his ideologies. Despite its origins, it was preserved post-war in its original form as a historical reminder. In 1960, it hosted the Summer Olympics.

For the first time, I experienced a live tennis match. Previously, I found tennis somewhat dull, likely due to television broadcasts failing to capture the court’s intense emotions and the physical exertion each professional strike demands. In person, the experience was electrifying.

The monumental sculptures of Roman Olympians at the Forum add a sense of historical grandeur to the sporting events held there. Performing in such a venue is undoubtedly an immense honor.

The comfort of a hotel bed after a flight is unparalleled, especially when you can luxuriate in 8 hours of sleep instead of a cramped 4 hours in an airplane seat.

New York City’s Mayor Bill de Blasio had declared a state of emergency just the day before due to an approaching snowstorm. With schools and kindergartens closed, the city – usually teeming with its 20-million population – turned eerily quiet. Well, almost. The subway and hipster cafes remained open, and the snowstorm turned out to be less severe than anticipated.

A snowstorm in New York is a unique spectacle. Due to the city’s proximity to the ocean, the snow is dense, not fluffy. About 20 centimeters of snow had fallen overnight and into the morning, creating a rare opportunity for tourists to see the city free from the usual crowds.

After a delicious breakfast, we set out to explore the classic sights of New York. Walking these streets felt surreal, like déjà vu – I’d seen it all before in GTA video games and countless Hollywood movies. It was like stepping onto a film set.

We planned to explore the iconic views of Manhattan – the Empire State Building, Broadway, but the highlight awaited us at Madison Square Garden. This isn’t just New York’s premier arena; it’s a symbol of America’s entertainment and sports scene. We were lucky enough to get a tour without a reservation or a long wait.

Preparations were in full swing for Justin Timberlake’s concert that evening. And the next day, the same venue would host a Rangers game, followed by a Knicks game. In a city where space is a luxury, it’s not feasible to have separate arenas for basketball and hockey teams. Hence, they share Madison Square Garden, ingeniously converting from a hockey rink to a basketball court in just four hours. The process is more complex when setting up for concerts.

The locker rooms for the Knicks and the Rangers are separate. The Rangers, who had a tough season in 2018, are quite superstitious; they cover their club logo with a special carpet to prevent tourists from jinxing it. The Knicks, on the other hand, proudly display their logo in their locker room.

Our departure from Newark Airport in neighboring New Jersey wasn’t delayed by the snowstorm. Surprisingly, the usually congested journey from Brooklyn took us only 30 minutes, a trip that would typically take an hour and a half.