the gal behind

EVERLASTYING

A woman with a striped skirt and black jacket is walking away in an art gallery, looking at colorful abstract paintings on the walls. The gallery has a white ceiling with track lighting and a smooth gray floor.

A table set with various food items including a plate of fried chicken and fries, a plate with a decorated sweet dessert, a bowl of salad, a glass of an iced beverage, a tray with small colorful candies on a stick, and a glass teapot with a dark liquid inside, all near a window showing an overcast sky and cloudy landscape outside.

Hiya, I’m Melinda

I drink way too much boba, believe in carry-on-only travel, and spend my time finding aesthetic cafes & delicious Asian eats, and uncovering the history of Taiwan & NYC.

A blank white piece of paper with a strip of masking tape at the top, against a black background.

Two bubble tea drinks with black straws held by a person, with a sign in the background featuring a mountain graphic and Chinese characters.

White suitcase with wheels and handle, two chairs with wooden seats and black cushions, a large straw hat with a black band on the seats, with a marble wall background and a small dark wall light.

Born in Miami, raised in California, and lucky enough to live in Taiwan for two years before landing in Brooklyn, NY 🗽. Those two years in Taiwan shaped me — I went from knowing zero Mandarin to speaking fluently, thanks to my parents’ encouragement and my own love of reconnecting with my roots.

You could call me…
a cultural chameleon. 🌏🙂‍↕️

After taking several solo trips and having some deep self-reflections on how to make a positive impact on this earth, I decided to create EVERLASTYING — a space to share authentic travel stories, spotlight small businesses, & show you how to travel deeper (without feeling like the awkward tourist).

how

EVERLASTYING

began

Ever since I can remember,
starting my own business was always a dream —
but let’s be honest, the fear of failure constantly held me back.
In 2023, after an unexpected shift at work…
I finally decided to take the leap.

And that’s how EVERLASTYING was born.

The name comes from “everlasting” memories and “Ying” (瑩) — my Chinese name, meaning authenticity. It’s my way of staying true to myself while helping others travel deeper and live lighter.

What started as a love letter to Taiwan has become a platform to celebrate its culture, food, and small businesses — while also spotlighting Asian gems here in NYC.

As I explore more of the world, Taiwan will always remain center stage 💫 — because EVERLASTYING is all about intentional travel, supporting local communities, and finding meaning in every journey.

Get to know me

MOST UNDERRATED DESTINATION I’VE BEEN TO

Con Dao, Vietnam

FAVORITE SONG ON REPEAT

“CAN YOU SEE ME?” Rezz

COMFORT MEAL

Anything with potatoes

BEST TRAVEL SOUVENIR?

handmade ceramics,

locally designed clothes + magnets!

Travel deep with me

National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan

A small dog lying down, wearing a green collar, with a tan and white coat and upright ears.

A piece of white masking tape partially covering a black surface, with the upper part of the tape slightly lifted.

A dog with brown, white, and black fur sitting next to green plants and a brick pathway in sunlight.

A torn piece of beige paper with a vertical green bar on the right edge.

Treasure’s Corner

In memory of my baby, Treasure.
I dedicate this corner to honor his 15 years and 10 months of commitment, loyalty, and faithfulness to me and my family.
April 20, 2010 - February 16, 2026.