Introducing Allumette Travel
📍 Manhattan, NYC

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If you’ve been reading here for a while, you already know how deeply I love to travel. Whether it’s wandering the lavender fields of Provence, lingering over oysters in New England, or revisiting the quiet corners of Paris that still feel like secrets, the act of planning—of imagining—has always brought me as much joy as the trip itself. I’ve never been someone who simply shows up and wings it; I delight in poring over maps, researching the best corner table at a tucked-away bistro, and uncovering the boutique hotels that feel like they were designed just for me. It’s this mix of curiosity, intentionality, and aesthetic sensibility that inspired the creation of Allumette Travel—a travel concierge for those who love meaningful experiences, polished details, and destinations that feel as personal as they are inspiring.

What Does Allumette Mean?

The word “Allumette” is French for matchstick—and like many of the best things in life, it’s a small nod to something sentimental. I’ve long collected matchbooks from restaurants, hotels, and bars that leave a lasting impression. They’re little tokens of memory—of dinners that stretched into evening with dear friends, weekend getaways spent somewhere beautiful, or travels that shaped how I see the world. There’s something romantic about them, these tiny, ephemeral souvenirs that say “you were here, and it was special.” Allumette Travel draws inspiration from that same feeling: thoughtful, flickering moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.

What Does Allumette Travel Offer?

Allumette Travel was built to offer more than just recommendations—it’s about creating beautiful, seamless travel experiences tailored to your lifestyle. There are two primary ways to travel with Allumette. The Curated List is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy exploring on their own but appreciate a well-edited list to start from. You’ll receive a beautifully designed, destination-specific guide with restaurant recommendations, hotel options, must-sees, and hidden gems. Then there’s the Signature Voyage, our most immersive offering, which includes a full day-by-day itinerary with every detail considered—from how you’ll spend your afternoons to where you’ll enjoy apéritif hour. It’s all tailored to your taste and interests, blending the iconic with the unexpected, and leaving plenty of space for magic in between.

What is the Allumette Travel Process?

What makes Allumette truly personal is the collaborative process. Every journey begins with a virtual consultation, where I get to know not just your destination, but you. I want to understand your style of travel: Do you love slow mornings with room service or early wakeups for sunrise hikes? Do you crave museum afternoons or breezy shopping strolls? Are you looking for family-friendly ease, romantic moments, or a bit of both? As an affiliate of FORA Travel, I have access to an extraordinary network of hotel partners around the world, which means I can secure exclusive perks for you, including complimentary breakfast, $100 resort credits, room upgrades, early check-in, and late check-out. These thoughtful extras make your stay feel more indulgent—and more effortless.

What is Allumette Wardrobe?

In addition to the itinerary, Allumette Wardrobe is a service I’ve developed for clients who want to travel light but look refined. With each trip, I offer a personalized capsule collection of 30 to 50 pieces curated around your style, destination, and activities. Whether it’s coastal chic in Nantucket, neutral layers for a Parisian fall, or breathable linens for a Mediterranean summer, I’ll source a mix of timeless staples and elevated essentials you’ll actually wear. Think of it as packing without the stress—each item selected with purpose so you feel polished from takeoff to your final toast.

Allumette Travel is about more than logistics—it’s about traveling well. It’s for the modern romantic who believes that where you stay matters, that what you wear affects how you feel, and that the beauty of a destination should linger long after you’ve returned home. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by options or unsure where to begin planning your next trip, I would love to help you design something unforgettable. Whether you’re in the mood for an edited list or a fully personalized journey, I invite you to explore what Allumette Travel can offer. I can’t wait to travel with you.

Love from NYC,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England. 

Winters in the Upper East Side
📍 Upper East Side, NYC

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Winter in the Upper East Side has its own special charm. Although the holiday lights have dimmed and the festive crowds have dispersed, the neighborhood settles into a quieter, more refined rhythm. The crisp air makes for an invigorating stroll, and there’s something enchanting about the way the city slows down, if only slightly, before the first signs of spring emerge. The historic brownstones dusted with snow, the soft golden glow of lamplights in the late afternoon, and the occasional sight of children bundled up and laughing in the park all add to the season’s quiet magic.

We started our day with a proper breakfast at Sant Ambroeus, indulging in a leisurely meal that set the perfect tone for the morning. Their cappuccino is always a favorite, and the warm ambiance made it easy to savor the moment before stepping back out into the crisp winter air. Afterward, we grabbed to-go coffee from Ralph’s and took a bundled-up walk through Central Park, letting Brennan take in the wintry beauty around her. The bare trees against the bright sky, the occasional crunch of snow underfoot, and the occasional brave runner on their weekend route made for a picturesque morning.

One of the many reasons I cherish our MET membership is the ability to explore the museum at our own pace. This visit led us to even more new-to-us corners of my favorite museum—there is always something different to admire and appreciate. We wandered through the Islamic Art and Musical Instruments collections, among others, taking in the intricate craftsmanship and rich history each exhibit had to offer. It was a welcome escape from the chill outside, a chance to immerse Brennan in beauty and culture. After all, it’s better to start them young!

Our day ended with lunch alongside dear friends at Bryant Park Grill, a reminder of how special it is to have them living nearby. Their presence in Brennan’s life is something I truly treasure. In a city that moves so fast, these slower winter days filled with familiar places and loved ones feel all the more meaningful. There’s something about winter in the Upper East Side that encourages a different kind of appreciation—one that finds warmth in the small, beautiful moments of everyday life.

Love from NYC,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.