Go away with ... Ava Dash
For New York City-based activist and model Ava Dash, traveling is less about an itinerary than it is about embracing the moments she never planned for, like “watching the sun set over the ocean with close friends, discovering a tiny restaurant you found by accident, or getting completely lost in a city and ending up somewhere even better than where you intended to go.” The daughter of music mogul Damon Dash, she co-wrote the novel “96 Words for Love” with her mother, Rachel Roy. Additionally, Dash is one of the stars of the Bravo reality series “Next Gen NYC.” Fans may find her on Instagram (@ava_dash) and TikTok (@avadashh). This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Q: What can you share about your role on this season of “Next Gen NYC”?
A: [It] feels a lot more personal. People will see me navigating a new chapter of independence, building unexpected friendships and saying yes to opportunities that pushed me outside of my comfort zone. It’s definitely a side of me viewers haven’t seen before.
Q: You were born and raised in New York. Have you discovered anything new about the city while working on this show?
A: Growing up in Manhattan, you think you’ve seen everything. But filming reminded me that the city is always evolving. Every block can become the backdrop for a completely different story. It also reminded me how much I love this city. Personally, I realized I’m more adaptable and resilient than I ever gave myself credit for. Reality television is unpredictable. I learned to trust myself instead of trying to control every outcome.
Q: For someone who hasn’t been to New York before, what are some things you would recommend?
A: My favorite days in New York don’t usually involve checking landmarks off a list. I’d spend the morning walking through the Tribeca with a matcha, window shop in SoHo, wander through the galleries at the MoMA, stop for a bagel at Apollo Bagels and end the evening with dinner at Sant Ambroeus. The best way to experience New York is simply to walk. You always stumble upon something or someone memorable.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: Hvar, Croatia, is somewhere I never get tired of. There’s something so timeless about it. The pace slows down, every meal feels intentional, the cobblestone streets are safe to wander, the sea is calm and refreshing and even the simplest afternoons somehow become unforgettable. It’s the perfect balance of elegance and ease.
Q: What was a trip you took as a child that stands out?
A: Visiting India will always be one of the most meaningful trips I’ve taken. It gave me a deeper appreciation for my [Indian, Dutch and African American] heritage. I still think about the colors, architecture, markets and incredible food. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Q: Where are some places your modeling career took you?
A: Modeling has taken me to places I dreamed about growing up, including Paris, London, Italy, Mexico and throughout the United States. One of my favorite parts of the job is seeing how every city has its own perspective on fashion and creativity.
Q: Where are your favorite weekend getaways?
A: The Hamptons in the summer, my dad’s house in Florida or my mom’s house in Texas. And anywhere on the coast where I can completely unplug for a couple of days.
Q: If you’ve ever gone away for the holidays, which was the best trip?
A: I love celebrating New Year’s somewhere warm. I had an amazing time bringing in the new year in Sayulita, Mexico. There’s something about starting the year by the ocean barefoot in the sand. That always feels optimistic.
Q: What are your five favorite cities?
A: New York will always be number one. After that I’d say Paris, London, Hvar and Florence. Each one has such a distinct personality and I always leave feeling inspired.
Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?
A: Ibiza has been at the top of my list for years. I’m hoping to finally make it there this summer. Beyond that, I’d love to explore Korea and Japan.
Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?
A: A great skincare routine, my camera, wired headphones, a speaker, a good book for the flight and a portable charger.
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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)
©2026 Jae-Ha Kim. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c) 2026 DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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