I’m a Bucharest-based travel writer, whose work has appeared in CNN Travel, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, BBC Travel, The Telegraph, Thrillist, Skylife Business, Wizz Magazine, Business Traveller, Glamping.com, Travel & Leisure, In Your Pocket and more - both print and online (monicasuma.contently.com).

I write about arts & culture, food & drink, unique properties around the world, as well as up-and-coming destinations, lesser known to the general public.

After nine years in New York City, and a three-year interlude in France, I moved back to my native Romania. From Travel Massive NYC, which I symbolically consider my home chapter after so many years, to Travel Massive Bucharest. Since my return, I’ve reported on Bucharest and Romania extensively, in particular for Lonely Planet in a variety of roles.

Through my 12 years abroad, and my travels to some 45 countries on five continents, I have gained a much deeper understanding of what makes us who we are. I deeply believe multiculturalism and diversity makes our life richer, and travel, the beautiful experience that makes me come alive each time in a different way.

Travel started early for me, when my parents met while on a trip to Moscow and Saint Petersburg in Russia. And it continued as a child, with relatives in the States and France, both countries I would eventually live in as well, and as a preferred lifestyle in the family whenever it was possible. It’s often difficult to pick favorites, as each destination is soul-stirring in a distinct way. But the month-long stay spent on Navajo Nation in the American West or the Highlands of Papua New Guinea in Oceania stand out as otherworldly and unforgettable. Challenging, yet fulfilling beyond description.

Travel in my books equals meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, and immersing myself in different languages. It’s not about ticking boxes. Perhaps that’s why I’m good with languages myself, four of which I speak. That is why I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain, and interned in Shanghai, China, two experiences that rounded up my university studies in New York City.

Therefore, more than travel writing alone, I'm a visual storyteller and content creator in more ways than one.

Happy to be here and make your acquaintance.