🗞️ Top Story by Lassi Pensikkala: Let us help you break down some of the city’s latest and greatest holiday happenings that you won’t want to miss during your trip for Christmas in New York. From the enchanting window displays along Fifth Avenue, which showcase elaborate themes and stunning artistry, to the dazzling lights of Dyker Heights that draw visitors from all over, there’s an array of festive activities to immerse yourself in. You can take part in ice skating at Rockefeller Center, a timeless tradition that’s perfect for families, friends, or even a romantic date night, or stroll through Central Park as it transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered trees and gentle caroling echoing in the air.
Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to savor seasonal treats at various holiday markets scattered throughout the city, each offering unique crafts and festive foods that will surely delight all your senses, from peppermint hot chocolate to freshly baked gingerbread cookies, ensuring that every moment is filled with holiday cheer and the spirit of the season. As you wander through the charming stalls adorned with twinkling lights and cheerful decorations, take your time to explore a diverse array of artisanal goods, handmade ornaments, and locally sourced produce that evoke the essence of winter wonder.
You can engage with passionate vendors who are eager to share their stories and culinary secrets, making each purchase meaningful. Along with traditional favorites, look out for innovative seasonal treats that combine unexpected flavors, such as spiced apple cider donuts and savory pumpkin empanadas, inviting you to indulge in a memorable gastronomic adventure that celebrates the warmth and joy of the holidays in every bite.
Lassi Pensikkala – Economist, Travel expert, and Frequent traveler
Lassi Pensikkala — With three decades in the travel industry, Lassi has worked as a professional travel guide, destination management entrepreneur, and international travel consultant, serving 700+ B2B clients from 55 countries. His experience spans global mega-events (Formula 1, football world championships, international trade fairs, and congresses) as well as incentives, themed group tours, and tailor-made cultural journeys. This expertise was built over 20+ years as the founder and operator of a destination management company in Germany. He is the author of 37 Europe travel guides, 60 USA destination guides, and a growing collection of world guides on AmerExperience.com. Learn more
By Economist Lassi Pensikkala | International Business Developer | Multilingual communicator | Connecting ideas, people & opportunities across borders | Founder of AmerExperience & Seguros Amer® |
Lassi Pensikkala is the creator of AmerExperience.com, founder of SegurosAmer.com, and an international business developer with over four decades of global experience. Hailing from Finland, Lassi has lived and worked across Europe and Latin America, driven by a deep curiosity for cultures, languages, and meaningful human connection.
He writes regularly, offering thought leadership on topics such as travel, golf, and international cross-cultural business. You can follow his work on Telegram, connect with him on LinkedIn, or read his articles and updates via Google News, Flipboard, and other social media platforms.
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Expertise
• International Business Development
• Creator of AmerExperience.com and SegurosAmer.com
• Strategic consulting for cross-border ventures
• Avid golfer and advocate for golf psychology
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Education
Lassi studied Foreign Trade at the Business College of Turku, Finland, and later graduated as economist MSc (Econ) from the University of Hamburg, Germany, where he also pursued studies in Psychology and Sociology.
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Language skills
Multilingual in English, German, Spanish, Swedish, and Finnish
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Life philosophy
“Live freely, seek knowledge, and be open to the richness of life’s experiences.”
Lassi’s passion for exploration started early. Growing up during the golden era of Rock’n Roll, student movements, and the first moon landing, he experienced the unique Nordic freedom of crossing borders without passports — a freedom that still inspires his global lifestyle today.
For him, true freedom means exploring new lands, embracing diverse cultures, and forming real connections with people around the world.
