Being Thankful …
Taiwan: Waves of Wonder Media Event - New York City, November 19, 2024
It’s the Thanksgiving season here in the United States and while it’s important to always be thankful, there are certain moments that highlight just how important it is to pause, reflect, and appreciate.
For me, I had the opportunity to be thankful by way of the Taiwan Tourism Administration. They invited me to share the launch of their “Waves of Wonder” portion of their #PictureMeInTaiwan promotional campaign. It was a wonderful evening (more on that below) bookended by an opportunity for me to acknowledge my own good fortune - being able to join the event in the first place.
I live and work (as a public school teacher) right here in New York City - in Queens, in fact. After a day of teaching young New Yorkers, I headed to the Murray Hill Long Island Railroad Station and caught a train to Grand Central Station. I exited Grand Central, looked up, and saw the Chrysler Building gleaming in the late-afternoon November sun. After a brief walk along E 42nd Street to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office and an enjoyable evening as a guest, I walked back to Grand Central, under the glittering lights of Chrysler’s crown, descended into the station, and headed home.
And I thought - you know, not everyone has the opportunity to just take an afternoon, hop on a train to Grand Central, take a few cursory glances at The Chrysler Building, enjoy the hospitality of the another and culture … and be home before 8pm.
What an amazing evening!
It’s experiences like these that reinforce the real value of travel and exploration … it’s the journey, yes … but also the connections to others you make and, the lessons of history and culture and people you learn and, especially, the appreciation for what you already have.
And this lesson could not be more closely related to the events of the evening. From Ambassador Chih-Chiang Lee, to Director Jin Juang, to Host and creative force behind Bare Feet Mickela Mallozzi, the evening was a showcase for the vast appreciation and generosity of Taiwan. Not merely a tourist destination, Taiwan is a place of discovery and culture.
And make no mistake! Taiwan is a place that well-earns that praise and gratitude. From its natural beauty, its gleaming, safe streets, its spirituality, and its openness and confluence of diverse cultural influences, Taiwan is truly a destination worth exploring.
Of course, the highlight of the evening was the premiere of third episode Mackela Mallozzi’s Taiwan Trilogy of exploring this amazing place through the lens of dance and music. Look for it on PBS in December 2025!
Walking back under the glow of the Chrysler Building, I realized that gratitude isn’t just about acknowledging a moment — it’s about recognizing the doors those moments open. Taiwan’s new 'Waves of Wonder' campaign embodies that spirit beautifully, inviting travelers to look deeper, connect more meaningfully, and experience a land where culture, creativity, and kindness flow together.
I’m truly appreciative of the Taiwan Tourism Administration, Ambassador Lee, Director Juang, and Mickela Mallozzi for extending this opportunity and bringing a piece of Taiwan to New York. If you’re looking for your next destination — or simply inspiration — explore the #PictureMeInTaiwan campaign and see what discoveries are waiting. I know I’m already inspired to experience Taiwan firsthand.
Thank you, Taiwan Tourism Administration for the wonderful event and all of the opportunities!
