From Dhaka to Denver: My First Adventure Across the U.S.
From the lively streets of Dhaka to the scenic mountains of Colorado and the vibrant neighborhoods of New York City—my first tour of the United States was nothing short of magical. Spanning from September to October 2022, the journey was packed with unforgettable sights, warm hospitality, and enriching cultural moments.
Let me take you through some of the highlights of this amazing adventure.
The Journey Begins: Dhaka to Los Angeles
It all started with a long (but exciting) flight from Dhaka to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Stepping off the plane into the warm California sun, I felt a rush of excitement—this was my first time in the United States!
Three Days in Santa Monica
I spent my first few days in Los Angeles exploring Santa Monica, and it was everything I had imagined and more. The Santa Monica Pier was buzzing with energy—street performers, the colorful Ferris wheel, delicious food stalls, and of course, those stunning ocean views.
Walking along the pier, I took in the atmosphere and enjoyed the beach vibes. The nearby Santa Monica Beach was perfect for relaxing, people-watching, and soaking up the golden sunshine. It was a great start to the trip!
Off to the Rockies: 20 Days in Colorado
Next, I flew to Denver, Colorado, and then headed to Colorado Springs to stay with my American friend and his family. Their hospitality was incredible—they made me feel like part of the family from the moment I arrived.
My friend is a big fan of the outdoors, so he made sure I got the full Colorado experience.
Exploring Colorado’s Natural Wonders
We kicked off with a visit to Pikes Peak, one of the tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains. The drive up was filled with jaw-dropping views, and once we reached the summit, I was completely blown away. It felt like standing on top of the world!
Then we explored the Garden of the Gods, a stunning park known for its dramatic red rock formations. Walking among those giant rocks felt like stepping into a different world.
Another highlight was Red Rocks Amphitheatre—even without a concert happening, just standing there and hearing the natural acoustics echo was amazing.
Throughout my stay, we shared stories, enjoyed home-cooked meals, and explored their favorite spots. Their warmth and kindness made this part of my journey incredibly special.
Scenic Train Ride to San Francisco
After 20 days in Colorado, I boarded an Amtrak train from Denver Union Station to San Francisco—a two-day ride that turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the trip.
The route passed through Salt Lake City and countless picturesque towns, mountains, and open landscapes. Watching the scenery change from the comfort of the train window was peaceful and inspiring.
Two Days in Mountain View & Silicon Valley
Once I arrived in San Francisco, I stayed in Mountain View for a short but sweet two-day visit. I finally got to see the Google headquarters, and it was even cooler than I expected. The open campus, colorful bikes, and creative spaces reflected the innovation the company is known for.
I also stopped by the Facebook (now Meta) headquarters, and it was fascinating to see how these global tech giants operate.
As someone from the tech world, visiting Silicon Valley was a dream come true.
Last Stop: New York City
From San Jose Airport, I flew to JFK in New York City and headed to Jackson Heights, where I stayed with a friend. Jackson Heights is a beautifully diverse neighborhood, and it felt like a little piece of Bangladesh in the heart of NYC.
Markets were busy, food was flavorful, and the Bangladeshi community made me feel right at home.
Exploring the Big Apple
No trip to New York is complete without seeing the classics. I visited Times Square, strolled through Central Park, and took the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty—each spot with its own unique charm and story.
Food was a big part of the experience too. From authentic Bangladeshi biryani to that iconic New York-style pizza, my taste buds were on their own adventure!
Final Thoughts
This first trip to the U.S. was more than just travel—it was a journey filled with connection, discovery, and gratitude. From the sunny coast of Santa Monica to the breathtaking peaks of Colorado, the innovation of Silicon Valley, and the cultural richness of New York City—every stop brought something new.
I’m especially thankful for the friends and families who welcomed me with open arms and made my stay so meaningful. Their kindness reminded me that no matter how far we travel, it’s the people who make the journey truly unforgettable.
Looking back, I carry with me not just memories but inspiration—and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
