On New Jersey and Small Pleasures

In just a few short days, I’ll be heading on a month-long trip to Portugal—by far the longest international trip I’ve taken that isn’t to my home country, Colombia. My excitement has been off the charts, matched only by my analysis paralysis as I daydream about all the places I want to visit, landmarks to see, and outfits to wear (can someone please invent a way to teleport Pinterest outfits into my closet—for free?).

Since our flight departs from Newark instead of DC, we’re spending a few days in the New Jersey suburbs—a place I’ve come to love. It means family time, no noise except for the sounds of nature, and nothing but green grass, swaying trees, and the occasional deer (and fireflies!). So, I thought I'd write about my the activities that make me happy when I'm in this corner of the world.

My Favorite Small Pleasures Around Here

• The Mall at Short Hills: I’ve been saying this for months—Short Hills is my favorite on the East Coast. This luxury mall is compact, well-kept, and filled with the best stores—from Aritzia and Abercrombie to Camilla, Diptyque, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. The cherry on top? An Eataly. It’s perfect not only for meals but also for coffee. They serve cremespresso, their version of the Italian crema di caffè—my favorite drink on the planet. Pure, instant happiness.

  
  

• The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: Did you know that Robbinsville, New Jersey, is home to Swaminarayan Akshardham—the largest Hindu temple in the U.S. and the entire Western Hemisphere? Completed in 2023, it’s quickly becoming a world-renowned destination for Hindu pilgrimage. The architecture is absolutely breathtaking, so, if you’re looking to be mesmerized, look no further. But here’s a pro tip: dress modestly (no shorts or skirts that show your legs), and be ready to walk barefoot inside!

  
  
  

  

  

  
  
  

• Treasure Hunts at HomeGoods & Co.: One of my favorite suburban rituals? Wandering through HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls. Honestly, the selections here are far better than in DC. I love spending hours browsing—without any rush—and I try to limit myself to what I actually need (easier said than done!).

  
  

• Branch Brook Park: The biggest public park in Newark and the place to see cherry blossoms in this state, as it has the largest number of these trees in the United States. But even outside of peak bloom, this park is still beautiful. I love strolling under its towering trees, soaking up the vibrant energy of kids playing sports and locals walking their dogs. Pro tip: bring something to sit on, something to read, and something to sip.

  
  
  

  

  
  
  

• NYC or Upstate Getaways: One of the perks of being in New Jersey? NYC is just under an hour away—a luxury I’ll never take for granted. Over the past year, I’ve built a list of spots we truly love. But if you’re craving something a bit quieter, we recently discovered Untermyer Park & Gardens in Upstate New York—a magical public garden filled with dreamy architecture and lush flora. Spend a leisurely afternoon there (ideally on a cool day), and make sure to sit looking to the river—it’s incredibly grounding.

• The Joy of Staying In: Honestly, staying in feels like such a treat here—something I rarely do back in DC, where social plans and home chores usually take over. But here, the quiet streets and slower pace invite true rest. I’ve been catching up on reading (especially if there’s a hammock involved), savoring home treats like frozen yogurt, going on long morning and evening walks with my boyfriend’s dog (often rewarded with deer sightings, cotton candy skies, or fireflies), doing some life planning, or simply dining al fresco.

A Royal Mess has always been about finding magic in places that others might overlook. The suburbs may seem ordinary to some, but for a Colombian girl like me, they’re a true delight—a little escape filled with quiet beauty and unexpected treasures.