I’m Shirley Roberts, a German-American living in wonderful Astoria, Queens. For me, that means two things: incredible food and amazing destinations in a radius of under ten miles.
I had the honor of studying acting at the prestigous Academy of Dramatic Arts (was definitely on my teenage bucket-list, so check), followed by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in film and television at St.John’s University. During those years, I learned how to shoot a commercial, how to write a professional-looking screenplay, and how to make the tears come flowing when needed in an emotionally charged scene. Even though my studies didn’t turn into a bread-winning passion, I became intrigued with writing.
So after graduating in 2015, I became a freelance writer of various sorts: Lifestyle,relationship advice and dating, fashion, health and fitness, food, and ultimately, traveling. My travels took me to an abundance of places, during which I re-discovered a new love for food that can only be experienced when you leave your own comfort zone behind.
Over the years I built a business writing, editing, selling my travel photography, and creating personalized travel itineraries for others, never without clear consciousness of the environment and the people around me.
In 2019 I became a mom to my precious Ella Rose, and only 6 months later, the COVID pandemic changed the travel industry in unforseen ways, so life has turned upside down in beautiful and harrowing ways. And yet, I continue to explore, searching for new local sights, quaint staycations, and unique adventures with my little family (often in a 10 mile radius!). You’d be surprised how much you can find in a place like New York!
Cheers - Shirley