Security Check: Nicole Burrow is part of the vision, concepting, and execution of small and large-scale projects at Huge. Outside of work, she’s an avid scuba diver, traveler, food enthusiast, and a fitness fanatic.

What’s your historical London and New York connection?
I grew up in Santa Barbara, CA, and spent three years living and working in NYC at Huge. While I absolutely love New York and what the city has to offer, I reached a point where I felt I’d ‘had enough’ and was ready to live somewhere a little more relaxed. In 2012, Huge sent me over to work for a couple months on the Alexander & James website and I fell in love with the city. I decided then that I’d eventually move out here one way or another. I’ve been here for about 10 months now and moving here has been the best decision I’ve ever made.

Describe your experience in London as a New Yorker.
My experience thus far has been incredibly positive. I think by transferring over with Huge, I’ve been able to quickly find my place here, make friends and put down roots. Often when I meet new people here they want to know how NYC compares to London. It’s difficult to answer because the cities are so different but similar at the same time. One thing I miss is the energy you find at night in NYC, and it’s practically impossible to find late night food! London is a much more international city than NYC though and the ability to travel to incredible places quickly and easily is something that I don’t want to give up anytime soon.

How can New York and London better engage with each other?

I think a forum where New Yorkers and Londoners can share their favorite restaurants, parks, mixology bars, museums, design studios, shops, and more, would be an amazing resource and way for people to connect across common interests.

Favorite NYC secret spot: Not sure how secret it is, but Paulie Gee’s pizza in Greenpoint (Brooklyn) – most incredible pizza ever.

Favorite London secret spot: Paesan, an Italian restaurant in Farringdon – not sure if it’s necessarily secret but it’s one of the best Italian spots you’ll find in London.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?  At this point in my life, I wouldn’t choose to live anywhere but in London. Based on my desire to travel right now, the work opportunities here, and all the new restaurants to explore, I couldn’t be happier. Eventually I imagine I’ll move back to California to be closer to my family.

In flight entertainment:

• What’s playing in your headphones right now? Bondax and Arcade Fire.
• And what are you currently reading? Let’s Pretend this Never Happened – Jenny Lawson.

From the 3460 Miles newsletter: connecting NEW YORK CITY + LONDON