It seems the past few years have been filled with heartbreak for so many. To embrace or not to embrace? To touch or not to touch? To kiss, hold or not to love? Here, a dear friend of RUSSH shares poetry through imagery with her latest photo travel diary travelling and kissing friends from NY to LA.

Tell us a little about LA & NY?

LA is always a place of fantasy for me. A place to try on different lives and discover myself in new landscapes - social and geographic. As a New Yorker, I spend so much time on the street and in buildings so it is always a bit of a shock to my system to experience my physical self in a wide open plane. It used to feel really uncomfortable for me, but lately I’ve been embracing my time with sand and sun. New York will always where I feel like my true self. I love walking everywhere and living close to my friends and creating a life I’ve always dreamed of.

What was your favourite moment from the trip?

I woke up early every morning and swam in the pool at the house I was staying in by myself before starting any part of my day. Taking that time inside of water each morning was so cleansing and pure and made me feel so connected to myself. It is so beautiful what time spent with yourself in a kind and nurturing way does to your mental health.

What sights were on your must-do list?

I love driving to see the giant dinosaurs in between Los Angeles and the desert. This time, when I went, they were painted different colours in celebration of Easter. I couldn’t believe my eyes when one of them was bubblegum pink - I was so happy.

What’s your perfect travel outfit?

I love a small bag for my phone and camera. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with sheer dresses and layering different colored swim or underwear underneath. And I always have a chunky sweater on hand for cool nights.

What is your favourite travel read?

When I go to California, I love reading Eve Babitz or Joan Didion and reading about their connections to the city. This time, however, I spent my time reading Patrick Modiano. I love his book Little Jewel the most.

What are your travel beauty bag essentials?

A gentle cleanser from Cetaphil and the oil free moisturiser to go with it, Chanel rose lip balm, a good sunscreen, some kind of face mist - I love the Avene one or the Mario Badescu rosewater spray, Pat McGrath highlighter and lipliner, and an eyebrow brush.

What spot is next on your holiday list?

I’d love to spend some time in France, in the countryside, and you know, I really can’t wait to kiss all my friends in Paris.