Beyond the Surface
If you already follow me on Instagram, you know part of my story. In 2022, my then long-time boyfriend (now permanent roomie) and I decided to start a life together. To make that happen, one of us had to change the direction of our lives as we were living in different continents. After thinking back and forth, it was me who decided to take that leap. Moving to a different continent meant leaving my comfort zone and the professional life I had built after finishing my MBA. With the hope that we could make it work, I left behind thirty years of life to start fresh here in the heart of Philadelphia with my love.
I can still recall the day I landed in Philly with two big suitcases. The day was cloudy yet windy; I got on a cab, and the first thing that amazed me was the speed of the cars! I never experienced that kind of speed while riding in a cab—the maximum speed limit is much lower in India. I wasn't sure how the pieces I brought with me would fit into a new thing in the new country. However, only one familiar face was enough to make it happen.
Where the journey began
We started building our tiny home together—from selecting a new piece of couch to reading a book on it by the window to assembling it ourselves—we learned to value every small victory. Eventually, we mastered navigating our new life one step at a time.
One fine morning, while sitting on my favorite yellow couch, kinkainphilly happened. It let me connect with the people that I call “my people.” It grew into a space where I could share photographs with some thoughts associated with them. Many started to appreciate it and it encouraged me more to continue knowing the city. Honestly, when someone texts or comments that a specific photo or write-up brings them back to some fond memories, I get my rewards. I know how much it means to love a place and still be living somewhere else.
As time goes by, I feel I have succeeded in deciphering the raw spirit of Philly. The unmatched vibe I found myself experiencing brought me back the memories of my own homeland and then I came to realize that Kinka belongs to Philly. Today, if you ask me if there is anywhere else I would have moved, I would say NEVER.
This is my place to share my love for Philadelphia and the life I've built. I hope you enjoy reading my story, my perspective, and have a great time.
- Kinka