The Mindholiday summer edit!
Save this to read on your next flight instead of spending $25 at Hudson News
A letter from the editor
Summer!!!!
One of my favorite traditions as a child was yearbook signing day at the end of the school year. Scrawling and receiving H.A.G.S. on the inside cover perfectly marked the start of summer, a season filled with sticky ice pops, burning to a crisp at the neighborhood pool, and fresh cut grass sticking to the bottom of my dirty bare feet as I skipped home.
I’m no longer in elementary school, but I still get the same butterflies when the air gets thick and humid.
Although summer is not officially here until June 20, I have a lot to say about the season, and rather than post a jillion times, I thought I’d compile everything into one edit… Think of this as the fun magazine you’d buy at Hudson News before boarding your flight to Europe.
And because I believe everyone should have equal access to a good in-flight magazine, this post is free, so feel free to share.
xx,
Bella
Note: This is a long post and it will get cut off in your email, so click here to read the whole thing.
Sky Daddy by Kate Folk: Linda is a lonely content moderator who develops an erotic obsession with airplanes—yearning to consummate and even die with one—as she confronts loneliness, trauma, and the search for acceptance in a disenchanted, tech‑driven world.
The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai: Follows a tight-knit group of friends in 1980s Chicago as the AIDS epidemic ravages and upends their lives, and later, in 2015 Paris, a grieving woman grapples with past trauma and estrangement while searching for her long-lost daughter.
Tender Is The Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica: A brutal dystopian novel set in a world where a virus has made all animal meat inedible, leading to legalized industrialized cannibalism.
The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish by Katya Apekina: Two sisters are uprooted by their mother’s breakdown, uncovering family secrets, trauma, and blurred boundaries in the wake of a fractured past.
What my favorite Substack writers are up to this summer
I asked five of my favorite Substack writers what fun trips and local adventures they have on the horizon, and they didn’t disappoint. Read on for travel inspiration, their summer essentials, and the trips they wished they were taking this year.
Olivia Marcus of Check the Bag
Where are you going this summer, and why?
I am happy to report that I am having an Italian summer! I have three trips planned to Italy this summer. One to Puglia for a work trip, a trip to Milan to visit my sister, and another Dolomites hiking adventure! Each trip has a few extra stops so I'm excited to explore. Mallorca is also on the itinerary (Note: Olivia has a great guide to the island here). I also have a few local trips upstate New York on the books.
Is there a spot you’re not visiting this summer but secretly wish you were?
I had a big trip planned around Portugal that unfortunately had to be cancelled because my boyfriend tore his ACL. I had booked Vermelho Melides, a gorgeous boutique hotel owned by Christian Louboutin for the trip and I'm so sad that I won't get to experience it this summer. My boyfriend and I will definitely re-book once he can walk again.
Do you have a summer soundtrack, scent, outfit, or snack that’s non-negotiable for vacation mode?
I looovee a summer scent. I choose a different one each summer to help solidify memories and vibes. This summer, I'm wearing Revel by The Maker and the Neroli & Basil body mist by Salt & Stone. They are both fresh and happy without being too sweet. Another non-negotiable is a turkey pesto sandwich on sourdough bread with salt and vinegar chips on the beach.
Katie Stone of Plant Based
Is there a spot you’re not visiting this summer but secretly wish you were?
For the past couple of summers, I've spent a few days in Fire Island with my family, so it has a special place in my heart now. We are sadly not going this summer, but I just love the feeling of being by the beach on a completely car-free island. Biking around to the convenience store, to my cousin's rental house, to the beach, and over to the ice cream shop is truly the epitome of summer in my mind, and it reminds me of vacations to the Outer Banks from my youth.
Do you have a summer soundtrack, scent, outfit, or snack that’s non-negotiable for vacation mode?
When it comes to entering summer vacation mode, it's essential that Lorde's “Solar Power” (I won't stand for its slander) and a lot of Prince are playing in my Airpods. Also, jorts on repeat. ;)
Alisha Ramos of Downtime
Where are you going this summer?
My husband, daughter, and I are going to Nantucket for two weeks this summer. We went last year and had such a great experience. Truthfully, the number one reason we're going back is because there's a quick and direct flight into ACK from D.C. where we live. For parents of a toddler, that's a huge draw.
We're not taking any other big (or even little...) trips this summer, so this will be our one big trip. We're renting a house. It's in a different part of the island than we stayed in last time, and I'm so excited to explore more of the other beaches and spots the island has to offer. We're especially excited to go back to The Juice Bar for ice cream, playing at Children's Beach, grabbing lobster rolls by the water at Jetty's, and hanging out at Cisco Brewers.
Is there a spot you’re not visiting this summer but secretly wish you were?
One of the best trips we've ever taken was to Monteverdi in Tuscany, for our honeymoon. It was such a tranquil place with unreal, painting-like views and incredible food, and the most fantastic staff. I'd love to go back there (and back to Italy, in general). It's a bit of a longer haul than we'd like right now with our daughter (a flight, a train ride, and a long car ride). But we'll be back someday!
Madeline Marcella of Crumbs of NYC
Where are you going this summer?
I'm taking two bigger trips this summer and a few small weekend trips. I'm super excited to go to Paris solo for the first time. I've actually never been on a solo trip and wanted to go somewhere that I've been a few times to be able to fully relax, eat at good restaurants, and sit outside and write without feeling like I need to tour day and night. I'm ending my trip by meeting my mom in Cannes for the film festival, which I can't wait to write about.
I'm also going to Brazil in late summer/early fall, which I actually have understood to be 'low season' due to the slightly cooler weather, but I've heard it's actually quite peaceful and lovely in Rio then, so I'm very excited!
Is there a spot you’re not visiting this summer but secretly wish you were?
There's a chance that this is my first summer not going to the Hamptons. I usually am pushing to plan weekend trips there early in the year, but feel like I was so caught up in work and trying to plan bigger trips that I let it slip. I've gone for the past few years and have done most of the popular things like Surf Lodge, The Crow’s Nest, and Duryea’s multiple times, and they're all lovely things to do, but I wasn't pulled to the Hamptons FOMO as much as I have been in the past…
I think I feel ok about not having a concrete weekend planned there. I'm actually thrilled to be able to enjoy time in the city this summer and feel like I've gotten over the hump of feeling like the "if you're in the city over the summer you're lame" rhetoric is true, and can't wait to keep exploring new neighborhoods and corners. And who knows, maybe a last minute Hamptons trip will spontaneously come up after all.
Do you have any summer traditions?
My boyfriend and I always take a longer train ride to L&B Spumoni Gardens in Gravesend at least once the second that the weather gets warm. He's a Native New Yorker, I am not, but eating pizza and Italian Ice here is the closest feeling to being a kid over the summer and feeling the true nostalgia of sitting at a picnic table after a day at the pool.
Diana May of Diana’s Substack
Where are you going this summer?
I will be in Minnesota, Mexico, Massachusetts, New York, Colorado, and California! These are all for wedding events, work, and personal vacation. Did I mention these all fall in June too? An exceedingly busy, but exciting month ahead!
Is there a hotel, local adventure, or cultural moment you’re especially excited about?
Very simple, but I cannot wait to eat a lobster roll in Nantucket.
Do you have a summer soundtrack, scent, outfit, or snack that’s non-negotiable for vacation mode?
My summer scent (that I will take on every vacation) is definitely Clementine Dreams by 7 Virtues! I just received a compliment on it today which solidified that sentiment. The perfect blend of citrus and vanilla.
A NYC summer packing list
I’ve lived through seven summers in NYC, and I can personally attest that every single year, I am astounded by how 90 degrees feels when you’re surrounded by concrete and metal buildings. It’s fucking insane. Packing for this weather can feel very intimidating, but I’ve lived through my share of warm weather wardrobe mistakes, so you don’t have to! Here are all of the essentials that actually deserve to be packed in your suitcase.
Everything you should bring
The suggested amounts take into consideration that you’re likely coming for 5-7 days. If you’re coming for more or less time, scale accordingly!
Outerwear
In case you missed it, NYC weather is frickin weird right now. Tons of rain, 60 degree days, very unpredictable!
Lightweight trench, for chilly mornings and rainy days. Skip if neither are in the forecast.
A light sweater or cropped jacket for nighttime. For chilly restaurants, breezes by the water, etc. Something you can tie around your waist or stuff in your bag in a pinch.
Shoes
Promise me you’ll only bring three pairs of shoes, max. And wear your bulkiest pair on the plane to save suitcase room.
One athletic sneaker. This is what you’ll be walking 20k steps in a day, so make sure it’s comfortable. These will also double as your workout shoes. I’m partial to these or these.
One pair of comfortable sandals. For dinners and instances where you won’t be walking a ton of steps.
One pair of flats or loafers. Again, for dinners and instances where you won’t be walking a ton of steps.
Comfies/Athleisure
One sweatshirt and one pair of sweatpants. Wear them on the plane. I hate not having comfy clothes, especially when chilling at my hotel/Airbnb at night. Better safe than sorry.
Pajamas. I sleep in men’s Uniqlo boxers, but you do you.
One workout set. If you’re crazy like me and work out more when you’re on vacation than IRL, bring two. These are easily washable in a sink, so you can rewear in a pinch.
One swimsuit, if your hotel has a pool or if you plan on tanning in Sheep Meadow/visiting the Rockaways…
Undergarments
Underwear. Obviously. Bring breathable ones.
Socks. I always over-index on socks and pack extras, because to me, there’s no worse feeling than sweaty sticky socks. Fresh socks, happy me! And they pack easily—just stuff them inside of your shoes.
One bralette/bra, if you dare. I go braless whenever I can (perks of being in the IBTC). Or I wear these.
Tops
2-3 basic versatile tees in white, black, or neutral colors. Think tees you can wear during the day or dress up at night.
2 tanks in neutral colors. Tanks are perfect on their own or perfect for layering, and they don’t take up much space.
1-2 button downs. A button down is truly my security item—I don’t go anywhere without one. I prefer cotton poplin, but a linen one would work too.
1 fun going out top. What even is a fun going out top anymore? I can’t find ones I like for the life of me, but if you want to throw one in your suitcase for a fancy dinner, more power to you.
Bottoms
1-2 pairs of athletic shorts. I wear my Adidas shorts everywhere, even with nicer tops. They’re just so wearable and practical. If you don’t have a pair you like, you can get them for like $10 on eBay.
1-2 pairs of pants, such as jeans (for dinners) or linen pants.
1 pair of shorts or a skirt/skort that can be dressed up. Something like this or this. Skorts > skirts, because of sitting on subways, walking over blowing grates, etc. You can’t Citibike in a miniskirt, but you can in a miniskort!
Dresses
1-2 dresses, if you’re a dress girl. Think linen, breezy, nothing too voluminous. They should border on being nightgowns.
Accessories
Minimal jewelry. Your everyday stuff should work great!
A crossbody bag that actually holds shit.
A tote… for farmer’s market hauls and flea market runs.
Sunglasses. The darker the lenses, the better.
A baseball cap, for keeping the sun off of your face.
Beauty/First Aid/Other
A blister stick! Blisters in a hot city are inevitable, so I make sure this guy is with me at all times.
And blister bandages. Always in my carry-on and always in my purse.
This stuff is amazing and can be used on cuts, rashes, bug bites, sunburns, skin that’s breaking out and angry, etc…
Sunscreen. Wear your sunscreen!
Sheet mask… Optional, but sometimes city air pollution makes me break out badly.
Earplugs and an eye mask. The city is loud, and you deserve high quality sleep.
Things to avoid bringing
Heels. Just don’t, they’re impractical and miserable.
Hair tools, a ton of makeup, etc… It’s hot! It’s humid! It’ll all melt off. Go au natural and thank me later.
A whole skincare arsenal. New York humidity is going to humble your 10-step routine. Just bring cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. You don’t need snail mucin here.
More than one "just in case" outfit… If you’re saying “just in case” while folding it, you’re not going to wear it. Be ruthless and be brave and don’t put extra shit into your suitcase. You’ll want the extra room to bring goodies home, and you’ll end up rewearing your one favorite outfit anyway.
Bulky purses. The last thing you want is to develop terrible back pain from schlepping your massive leather purse with metal hardware. Skip!
Summer getaways close to NYC that you should be aware of
We all deserve a weekend getaway, especially one that is a bit more under-the-radar than the Hamptons or Nantucket. To me, the ideal long weekend summer getaway from NYC is affordable, unpretentious, and conducive to deep relaxation. Here are some spots that are currently piquing my interest… 🌀
TOURISTS Welcome, Berkshires, Massachussets
Distance from NYC: ~3.5 hours by car
Starting at: ~$329/night.
The vibe: A fun, very laid-back getaway in the Berkshires. With a gorgeous heated saltwater pool, you might not want to leave the property, but venture out and art + treasures will find you.
What’s nearby: MASS MoCA, Jack's Hot Dog Stand, Bright Ideas Brewing, Clark Art Institute, Lickety Split ice cream, Hancock Shaker Village, Norman Rockwell Museum, Berkshire Botanical Garden
Silver Sands Motel, North Fork, NY
Distance from NYC: ~3 hours by car, ~4 hours by train
Starting at: ~$375/night
The vibe: A boutique hotel on the north shore of Long Island with its own private beach. It’s in North Fork, so it’s much more relaxed and less snooty than the Hamptons can be. There’s also an excellent vineyards/local wine scene. Be prepared to let your hair down and let the salt water tangle it into oblivion.
What’s nearby: Rose Hill Vineyards, Orient Beach State Park, North Fork Table & Inn, Shelter Island (~8 minute ferry)
Where I’m headed this summer
Quinn is off to sleepaway summer camp soon, and we are off to Europe. We are all very excited, but I think Quinn is perhaps the most thrilled! As much as I love NYC in the summer, I’m excited to get out of the city for a bit. Without travel, I’ve been feeling creatively blocked over the past few weeks, and I’m in need of a change of scenery!
We’re headed to London first, followed by Slovenia, the Dolomites, and Venice. Then, we are coming back to the city and heading to the Berkshires for a long weekend + Quinn’s camp parent visitation day (so excited to see him in his element). After a week back here, we are headed to the south of France for time with family, then Corsica, then Copenhagen.
It’ll be a mix of familiar places that bring comfort and new corners I’m excited to explore. I’ll be sending weekly digital postcards and dispatches chronicling all of the hidden treasures I find along the way, so subscribe to get the best of my European summer delivered directly to your inbox.
xx,
Bella
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Loveeee! Thanks again 🥹
Thanks again for having me Bella!