Dear Gastronomad Family,
As Thanksgiving nears and the holiday season begins, my heart feels truly grateful that you are part of our Gastronomad family.
Thanksgiving holds a special place for me. Gathering with those we care about to express thankfulness is a beautiful reminder to live each day with gratitude. The tradition began with pilgrims and native people sharing a feast, celebrating the season’s bounty, survival, and a spirit of community. Over the years, these harvest gatherings have become a symbol of gratitude, resilience, and unity in American life.
Today, many families honor Thanksgiving by sharing a meal, reflecting together on what they are grateful for, and passing down favorite recipes and cherished rituals to the next generation. I believe Thanksgiving is the single most poignant and meaningful tradition in the United States, and it is something that fascinates our friends around the world.
While each of us celebrates in our own way, coming together to show appreciation makes Thanksgiving important for our society. For me, living with gratitude is my guiding principle. Kindness and thankfulness fill life with happiness in ways that nothing else can.
I’m thankful for each of you, our kindred spirits and cherished supporters. You are the heart of our Gastronomad family. Because of your trust, we have traveled together through beloved places, sharing magical and life-changing moments with inspiring culinary masters, makers, and artisans. Mike and I feel blessed by this privilege.
Nearly twenty years ago, I traded my steady career for a life devoted to discovery and freedom. This journey around the world has been about searching for beauty, connection, and the best food and wine. Along the way, we have found lasting friendships, tasted unforgettable food, learned from fascinating cultures, and grown a wonderful global community.
The Gastronomad Experience grew naturally and organically out of our passion, but it is you who believed in us and joined the journey.
Almost ten years ago, inspired by Mike’s fans, we began with an idea to bring together curious travelers, sharing a love for beautiful places, delicious food, and memorable wines while meeting the extraordinary people behind them.
We gather in welcoming kitchens and around long tables, celebrating the art of sharing and the experience of living with gratitude, intention, and joy.
The Gastronomad Experience has always been much more than travel. It is about sparking joy, embracing surprise, and finding wonder as we come together to celebrate life over exceptional food and wine.
Because of you, inspiration fills my days. These years have been a magical journey of adventure, laughter, belonging, and deep gratitude and fulfillment. Thank you for being a meaningful part of our story and for bringing warmth, curiosity, grace, and appreciation to every place we have explored together. It is pure joy to share it with you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your presence in our lives.
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving. May your table be filled with your favorite dishes and surrounded by the people you love most.
With love and gratitude,
Amira
