NOMAD NARRATIVES
Welcome to Nomad Narratives, a travel blog/vlog (that vlog part is coming…) Travel is not just about ticking off destinations, but also about finding joy and connection along the way. I want to inspire you to embrace the joy and wonder of travel, celebrate the beauty of diverse cultures, and cultivate a sense of curiosity and openness that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Let's venture forward into the wide world with curiosity and a sense of limitless wonder to keep us company.
SERIES INTRO: Settling In
The digital age has revolutionized the way people live and work, allowing us remarkable autonomy to explore the world and seize life-changing opportunities. With this newfound mobility come new demands for extended-term accommodations that provide comfort, convenience, and cost-efficiency; this explains the rapid growth of extended-stay hotels and memberships catering to remote workers and frequent travelers—they offer cost-effective housing solutions for travelers who need a place to stay for days, weeks, or even months.
These properties offer flexible, all-inclusive living that is ideal for travelers and remote workers wanting to gain a deeper insight into a location by staying in the heart of it — digital nomads who want their accommodation to be as easy to pack up and leave as their laptop is, or anyone looking for a more immersive and fulfilling way of life.
One of the most exciting aspects of extended stay and long-term stay properties is the opportunity to experience different parts of the world in a deep and meaningful way. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in a new culture, explore the great outdoors, or simply enjoy some downtime, there's a property out there that's perfect for you. And with the rise of popular remote work programs like Remote Year and Outsite, it's easier than ever to combine work and travel in a seamless and productive way.
A Thought on ‘Home I've spent much of my adulthood searching for that feeling of being at home, yet it has always eluded me. I can admit in the privacy of my own thoughts that I have never felt truly settled, even in my younger years. I learned about "home" from external sources with little to no connection to myself, and that's why I have had such difficulty creating a sense of belonging for so long.
Throughout 2022, I experienced a significant period of being technically "homeless". To take care of myself, I frequently stayed at Sonder accommodations during this time. My negative experience with Airbnb led me to disengage from the brand and seek out alternative lodging options.
I discovered extended stay and long-term stay properties and memberships, and suddenly everything changed. The idea of having a home that's both flexible and all-inclusive was incredibly appealing to me.
Gone are the days of simply settling into the same house year after year. For some, home is a traditional two-story colonial in their hometown. Others thrive on the nomadic lifestyle and constantly seek new places to live and explore. And there's a group in between who want the freedom to work and travel while having a comfortable place to come back to. Whether you fit into one of those categories or something else entirely, extended stay and long-term stay properties and memberships can provide a flexible living arrangement that fits your unique definition of home.
If you're looking to work remotely, explore new cultures, or simply enjoy a change of scenery, there's never been a better time to take the leap and live life on your own terms. Why? When you choose an extended stay or long-term rental property in one of the thousands of locations across the United States—or around the world—you can rest assured that these homes have everything you need for a spectacular stay. Ideal for both business trips and family vacations alike, you don't have to sacrifice comfort, safety, or enjoyment in order to find affordable accommodations.
Settling In: Philadelphia, PA
I was in Philadelphia to attend the Cherry Bombe Jubilee in New York and the Black Women in Food Summit in DC, Philadelphia is right in the middle and it is my favorite city — and it's home. I grew up across the Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden, New Jersey. Originally a suburban town with ferry service to Philadelphia ,Camden evolved into its own city and was officially incorporated in 1828. but it is still very much an extension of Philadelphia. I chose my favorite hospitality brand, Sonder, for my accommodations and they did not disappoint.
Sonder has a presence in 40 countries and 9000 units in their inventory, and one thing that stands out is the consideration they put into using space design to emphasize the distinctiveness of each city, area, structure, and its history. Whether this type of attentiveness is part of their brand or not, it's obvious how carefully it's applied.
Philadelphia has complex history. Philadelphia was home to the liberation of Harriet Tubman and William Still, known as the Father of the Underground Railroad. For generations, it was arguably one of the worst places for African people, a port where they were brought to be sold into slavery and separated from their families. But it was also home to the largest population of free African Americans in the country—the Seventh Ward (between Spruce and South Streets and 6th and 23rd Streets) —and Mother Bethel, the first African Methodist Episcopal Church.You can go to South Street and see the remaining icons from the time when it was a vibrant, flourishing Black community, and then in the same day visit Napoleon Bonparte's brother's house.
Philadelphia is grossly overlooked as a global city; its food culture and community are second to none. 19th century Philadelphia was dominated by Black caterers, making food service in the city an integral part of its Black history. Thomas Dorsey, Henry Jones, and Henry Minton had essentially created a catering monopoly in town--a remarkable feat at the time. Dorsey's story is especially remarkable: he'd been born into slavery in Maryland and managed to escape from bondage in his twenties, fleeing to Pennsylvania which was a free state.
The Terrace:
Perched above Benjamin Franklin Parkway with an incomparable view of downtown Philadelphia, The Terrace is perfectly situated in the city’s Museum District. Home to some of the most renowned museums and art institutes in the world, such as The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Franklin Institute, and Barnes Foundation, there’s no shortage of inspiring exhibitions just a few minutes away. Plus, El Vez offers some of Philly’s best tacos for when you need a break from sightseeing.
The Terrace provides a perfect place to kick back and relax. Every space comes fully stocked with modern kitchen appliances, open floor plans, and a private balcony. If you have work that needs to be done, choose between your personal desk or take the elevator down to use the communal lounge area. And don’t forget to stop by the fitness center for a quick workout.
The Tidewater
The Tidewater, is also located in Philadelphia's Museum District, the building was formerly a local grain distribution center and a significant piece of history. The building's construction was reinforced with the country's first slip-form method. Today, every space within the facility offers a fully equipped kitchen, in-suite laundry, and industrial-style windows. If you want to indulge in some sightseeing, you can cycle by the city bike to witness the iconic Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River's rowers. You can also explore the picturesque gardens of Fairmount Park, take a jog up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, or discover local bars and restaurants within walking distance of the Tidewater. The rooftop is an excellent spot to appreciate the building's stunning architecture.
The Edison
This contemporary building stands in stark contrast to the traditional atmosphere of Old City - America's most historic square mile. Each suite has a Roku for streaming, laundry facilities, and a full kitchen. Take your morning coffee on the roof for amazing views, or head to the acclaimed High Street on Market for farm-to-table sandwiches and pasta. Don't forget to take the bus over to Independence Hall and learn about the birthplace of America! Surround yourself with young professionals shopping at local stores and dining at independent restaurants in this vibrant neighborhood.
Boat People, by Philly-based artist Claes Gabriel, created with curator Ryan Strand Greenberg and Mural Arts Philadelphia. Located at 47th Street and Woodland Avenue in West Philadelphia, the mural’s design is inspired by the Haitian Flag, where Claes was born in Port-au-Prince.
Here's a brunch recipe inspired by Philadelphia, PA that serves two:
Philly-Style Breakfast Sandwich:
Start the day off right with this hearty Philly-style breakfast sandwich. Packed with savory flavor and loaded with delicious fillings, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. From the crispy bacon to the melted cheese and pretzel roll, every bite is a mouthwatering experience Perfect for a Sonder kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of Philadelphia-style soft pretzel rolls
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzel rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are slightly toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the thinly sliced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté over medium heat until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook them to your desired doneness (fried or scrambled).
5. To assemble the sandwiches, take one pretzel roll and place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half. Add a quarter of the sautéed green bell pepper and onion mixture on top of the cheese. Then add a slice of bacon and a cooked egg. Finally, add another slice of American cheese and cover it with the top half of the pretzel roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make the second sandwich.
6. Optional: If you prefer a melty cheese layer, you can place the assembled sandwiches back in the warm oven for a minute or two until the cheese melts.
7. Serve the Philly-Style Breakfast Sandwiches warm and enjoy your brunch inspired by Philadelphia!
Feel free to pair it with some fresh fruit, a side of home fries, or a cup of coffee to complete your brunch experience.
One Platt
One Platt | Studio
1 Platt Street, New York
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Contactless check-in
Fast WiFi
Professionally cleaned
Fresh towels
24/7 support
Artisan coffee
Comfortable bedding
Shower amenities
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Air conditioning
In unit laundry
Elevator
Fitness Room
Lounge and Work Space
Outdoor Space
Kid Friendly
Paid Private Parking
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Pricing can start as low as $150 a night depending on the length of stay and if you have a Sonder Membership.
Kitchen Comfort: Hearty Beef Stew for One
Sonder kitchens are typically ready for guests as soon as you unpack. You’ll find fresh black pepper and salt, olive oil and vinegar, cookware, flatware, plates, cleaning supplies and more.
Ingredients:
1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional)
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the beef stew meat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
If the stew is too thin, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Add the mixture to the stew and stir well. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened.
Remove the bay leaf and serve the stew hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your warm and comforting beef stew on a cold night!
Are you planning a trip to the captivating New York City and looking for a combination of comfort, elegance, and reasonable prices? Sonder has got you covered. 1 Platt St, in the heart of downtown Manhattan. Their studios feature modern amenities that most hotels lack. These include cozy living areas, spacious bedrooms, and large picture windows overlooking the cityscape. If you want to get out on the town, this Sonder is located near one of NY's major interstates and the subway.
At Sonder's One Platt St. location, I felt very much in the heart of the hustle and bustle of downtown New York City. The property is located close to several popular tourist attractions such as the Trinity Church, the World Trade Center Memorial, Battery Park, and many more. The great thing about Sonder is that no matter what kind of traveler you are, there's something offered for everyone. The property on 1 Platt St was equipped with lots of unique amenities to make sure my stay was comfortable and enjoyable. This includes a spacious lounge for socializing or working, along with a communal kitchen where I could easily whip up a meal or snack. Additionally, the co-working space was perfect for those who need to get some work done while they're away from home. Apart from its modern amenities and convenient location, another great highlight of staying at 1 Platt St was getting to explore the nearby historical sites such as Trinity Church and its graveyard. It also happens to be where Alexander Hamilton and several other famous figures are laid to rest. As someone who loves history, this was truly an amazing experience! Overall, Sonder's One Platt St. location was great for both leisure and business travelers alike. I absolutely enjoyed my stay and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the best of New York City.
As I walked around the streets of downtown New York City, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the warm bed waiting for me at Sonder's One Platt St. location. I spent the better part of the day exploring the nearby historical sites and taking in the sights. As I unlocked the door to my spacious studio unit, I immediately hit up the electric kettle and made myself a cup of tea. Sonder offers a beautiful selection of coffee and tea, and the Egyptian chamomile was a perfect choice on a cold day. It is one of those small, hospitable gestures that never goes unnoticed by me it instantly makes me feel at home. After pouring myself a cup of coffee, I made my way to the comfy little chair in the corner by the window and took in the view of the city being covered in snow. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
Hance Park
Sonder has one of my favorite taglines because it’s queued up for high expectations and they do not disappoint.
Sonder | A better way to stay.
When you drop onto the landing page of their website what greets you is a confident and comforting invitation disguised as a mission statement:
Inspiring, award-winning design meets modern mobile-first service. Welcome to the future of hospitality.”
www.sonder.com
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Contactless check-in
Fast WiFi
Professionally cleaned
Fresh towels
24/7 support
Artisan coffee
Comfortable bedding
Shower amenities
-
Air conditioning
In unit laundry
Elevator
Fitness Room
Pool
Lounge and Work Space
Outdoor Space
Outdoor Grill
Kid Friendly
Paid Private Parking
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Check-in is at 4:00 pm
Checkout is at 11:00 am
You may request early check-in and/or late check-out after booking. Our team will do our best to accommodate any requests based on availability.
Wheelchair accessibility is not available
Elevators available
House Rules
No smoking (not even on balconies/patios)
No pets (not even really cute ones) unless otherwise stated
No parties (not even really quiet ones)
Quiet Hours are 10PM-8AM
Flexible cancellation
Sonder offers flexible cancellations for all bookings. For longer stays that are paid monthly, we require at least 30 days’ notice to cancel or modify without fees.
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Pricing can start as low as $96 a night depending on length of stay and if you have a Sonder Membership.
2814 N. 16th St., #1205, Phoenix
Phoenix's most iconic mural wall, a collaborative effort by Gennaro Garcia, Lalo Cota, Breeze, Angel Diaz, Pablo Luna and more.
If you're planning a trip to Phoenix, Arizona, and looking for a comfortable and stylish place to stay, with multiple properties throughout the city look no further than Sonder. The brand also offers great value for money. Each apartment comes with everything you need — from linen and towels to basic toiletries — ensuring that no extra costs are added at check out. In addition, you can book for shorter stays or extended stays depending on your travel plans and budget.
I've had the pleasure of staying at nine different Sonder properties, each one unique and memorable in its own way. One of my first and favorite stays was at the Sonder-Hance Park, in midtown Phoenix. I stayed in their Studio unit which was modern and stylish, located in a great neighborhood with plenty of restaurants and shops. This Sonder property in Midtown has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, work out at the fitness center, or grill up some delicious food at the BBQ facilities. A private patio and in-suite laundry add to the convenience and comfort of your stay.
This Phoenix neighborhood has become quite the artistic hub, with trendy coffee shops and eateries lining the streets. While I have been a resident of the city since 1994, this trip was my first time being here as a "traveler" and freelancer. It was fascinating to witness its vibrancy from a new point of view. The Phoenix Public Library, art museum, and theater are all within walking distance. A particular favorite of mine is the library - it's great for getting some writing in while sipping coffee or listening to free concerts and lectures. The gems of this neighborhood don't end there: The nearby Heard Museum offers guests an incredible exhibition it’s just a short walk or a ride on the light rail. If you want to get out of the downtown area, this Sonder is located near one of Arizona's major interstates and the Valley Metro Light Rail.
When it comes to furnishing their properties, Sonder puts a lot of thought and effort into creating spaces that are comfortable and stylish. From cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, they've got something for everyone. All of Sonder's properties feature couches covered in cushy fabrics, spacious kitchens with sparkling countertops, and bathrooms with clean, contemporary designs — all of which reflect the local character. The apartment itself was beautifully decorated with all the amenities I needed for a comfortable stay.
When I booked with Sonder for the first time I had come out of a hellish Airbnb experience, and was in desperate need of a bath and a good meal so the bed and garden tub were a balm to my weary soul. — The bedroom was thoughtfully designed with a comfy mattress and had plenty of storage space for my belongings.
Hospitality is one of my core values, and it is also an industry I've spent lots of time working in, so I'm particularly critical of hospitality levels when I travel or visit everywhere. When it comes to hospitality, the local team in Phoenix truly shines. From check-in to checkout, I was warmly greeted and felt taken care of by the friendly team at Sonder, this level of customer service was a breath of fresh air for me. The Sonder app is a user-friendly and beautifully designed portal that is simple to use — making communication a breeze. Knowing that someone is always available to answer questions or provide help is a huge plus when you’re away from home. It also means you can rely on them if something goes wrong during your stay.
During my stay, I decided to take advantage of the mail service and the poolside seating for a bit of meditation. It's great to have these amenities on-site, especially when you're traveling and you have work still on the schedule. One day, I decided to check out the nearby Heard Museum. As a lover of art and culture, this was definitely a highlight of my trip. The museum features a stunning collection of Native American art and artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more. I spent hours wandering the galleries, taking in the beauty and history of each piece. It was a humbling and educational experience that I won’t forget anytime soon.
On my last night at Sonder-Hance Park, I wanted to make a meal in the apartment's kitchen. The appliances and countertops were perfect for this task. Cooking while traveling is a unique experience; Airbnbs often don't provide the necessary supplies to make preparing food easy. Staying with Sonder was an absolute upgrade in this department. Even the most experienced traveler may want to stay in and not get takeaway. This also opens up greater opportunities to explore the local food scene by having to seek out grocery stores in the area. Depending on the community, one could find anything from a regular grocery store to a Trader Joe's or an H Mart. An adventurous spirit may even be rewarded with some of the best cooking experiences of their life.
As I packed up the last of my belongings, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness. My time at Hance Park had been nothing short of amazing, and I wasn't quite ready to leave. But alas, my travels called for me to move on to my next destination. When I was checking out, I used the Sonder app, which made the whole process extremely efficient and easy. One of the things I really appreciated about the app was that it sent me notifications so I wouldn't miss my checkout time, and it also provided a short checklist to make sure I had everything. After I returned my keys and parking fob to the appropriate locker, I pressed the checkout option on the screen, and then I was finally able to leave on my way. As I walked out of the garage and into the Phoenix sunshine, I couldn't help but smile. My time in this vibrant city had been a mix of challenging and restful, and Sonder had played a huge role in making the latter so. I knew that I would be back, and I couldn't wait to check out more of what Sonder had to offer — they had a fan for life.
The Mighty Southwest Quinoa Bowl
This recipe is easy to execute in a kitchen as well equipped as a Sonder kitchen. It's also healthy and filling. Phoenix has amazing local ingredients available so I recommend exploring the local markets and going a little rogue on this recipe. Add chicken, shrimp, or steak for a boost of protein. Turn this into a breakfast bowl by adding fried or scrambled eggs to the mix.
SERVES 2
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
1 avocado, diced
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Instructions:
Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and add it to a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through.
While the quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender.
Add the black beans to the skillet and season with cumin and chili powder. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the beans are heated through.
Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the veggies and beans. Stir to combine.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the diced avocado, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the quinoa bowl in bowls or take-out containers. This dish can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it perfect for a day of travel.