The Sun Inside 🌞

Hello Dear Reader,

It's been some time since we last spoke. How are you? What sounds do hear around you? How has the sunlight felt on your skin these past days? ☀️ 

September was a long and eventful month. The days in Paris, Venice and Northern Ireland feel like a lifetime ago. 

Paris was wonderful, as it always is. A place you love or hate. And I made sure the people I was with loved every second. 

We visited the familiar creperies, gazed upon the mesmorizing stained glass of La Saint Chapelle and were treated to some much needed sunshine, in what was of course supposed to be Summer... 

And as you would expect, I made sure to indulge in one of the best pastries in the world, the infamous Escargot Chocolat Pistache 💚 🤎 well worth the 20 minute wait for the fresh batch...

And of course, we made sure to experience the night life, seeing the beautiful Parisien Skyline in the best way. Along with more great food.

And I got to catch up with my wonderful Basque friend, and as per tradition, I forgot to take a photo. 

She's a lady who has seen me the past two years around the same point in summer, but in every way different, year upon year. And I hope that her new adventure will also continue to blossom 🌸 

After spending time the glorious Buttes Chaumont and Jardins de Luxembourg, I felt refreshed, despite it being a very different playground this time round 🌳

But I knew that the new adventure would be a dream come true. After two of my closest had gone and left me behind, I was ready to see this infamous city, and to do it with romance, well that was a true bonus 💕

There was copious amounts of gelato consumed: pear, cheese, melon and of pistachio. Reminding me of why Italy is just so darn fabulous 🍨 

And of course, when you're forced to choose a birthday present, being in Italy is the best place to find anything leather, anything chic and unique 😍

And it's the perfect place to wear your best 🤍 

The trip was filled with a respectable amount of Aperol Spritz, a healthy portion of pizza and pasta and many steps to work it all off. 

It was an adorable little place and honestly not as touristy as I'd been led to believe. It has gained a negative reputation in recent years for being overcrowded, but I have to say that its charm won me over. 

The gondolas were far too expensive, but seeing them bobbing in the water, awaiting a wealthy tourist enamoured enough to splurge, indeed make for a lovely picture of serene romance. 

I was so happy to have visited, finally. And a little sad to leave, and to no longer have the opportunity to speak Italian, which I love to do so much 🇮🇹

Getting to Northern Ireland was long and arduous, involving a stop in Edinburgh airport, which felt like going back in time 40 years. Where agressive staff dissuaded me and my fellow travellers from ever revisiting. 

Arriving home in a taxi full of Mauritians messed with my head. 

Do you know what it feels like when all of your friends come from different parts of the world and different chapters of your existence? Then they overlap and you feel like you're entering the twilight zone. 

The extra people benefitted my parents wonderfully. Treating them to traditional creole cuisine, having so much laughter and helpers around. 

And then a reunion with my best friend and her beautiful family 💜

What's more, we got to celebrate my parents' anniversary, which I never really get to do. 

It was great to be back. And as usual, I didn't want to leave. The longer and the further I'm away, the more I want to be there, the more I feel nostalgia and miss 'home". Even though it never really felt like that when I was there. Maybe it's just the people ☺️

So as I look back on the adventures, I smile. At how much I learned. 

That I truly am a free spirit and no matter how much I love being around people, I will always need alone time for the soul 🪷 

That I often carry too much, that in spite of the yoga, the good practices and the appearance of being calm and mellow, I don't always reflect those qualities, and I often forget to just be. 

Lastly, that I am vulnerable. I am human and I know pain. And that may never leave. 

But maybe, just maybe, if I keep allowing the Universe to fill my heart with all the positive things out there, there will no longer be room to feel those sad things. 

Here's to the reminders of what's important. Whenever and wherever you least expect it. And from the people you never knew could be so special 🫂 

Finding Something New...

Once upon a time, a young Irish girl took a trip to a big city. 

She had visited there twice before, and had enjoyed being a tourist, as well as celebrating a very special event in a Loved One's life.

This time, she went back for another reason. To be alone. It was the first time she had explored by herself. 

A stepping stone. 

She used the time to find something new. And she continued to do so in every place she ever visited and revisited in the future. 

Arriving in our hotel in London, we were all stiff and sleepy from the long drive. The staff were nice, and they had free tea bags, which made up for the fact that you had to access the room through miniature stairs, whilst hauling the Mauritians' 21-day wardrobe. 

Thankfully, the lovely Dasha accompanied me to drop off the car, and I was able to take her on the infamous Thameslink to return 🚂 

We met my friends for dinner, and had traditionally disgusting English pub food. 

But seeing a couple from an old life, combined with my crew from my new island life, as well as a girl I met jumping out of an airplane - well it doesn't get any more random. I was filled with joy, once again. 

So, for context, Mauritians are thrifty as hell. At least the ones I spend my time with are. Meaning, when I described Primark, they were 100% game. 

It also meant a 90 minute visit to the Flagship store and one member of our party (not me) bring 35 items into the fitting room. 

Yes, Primark is great. And I won't have anyone tell me that there is a better place to buy pyjamas. Which I of course did do. 

Much to the disappointment of my refined amigo, George. The man with the best hair in England, who also happens to know the top spots in London's Chinatown. 

♥️

I adored our time together, and wish that we would have had more.

Our final day in London was great, because the sun came out. Just as we happened to pass by the Natural History Museum. 

I was filled with the happy memories of visiting with my dad, so many years ago, and the revisits, as it's just such a cool place 🦖 

The next stop was Harrods, where someone decided to leave me unattended in the chocolate section. I was lost to a pistachio-induced trance, as I wandered aimlessly up and down each isle, trying to decide which extortionately overpriced pistachio flavoured delight I would part with my money for 💚 

I backed out at the last second, hearing my Grandad's voice screaming that it was too expensive. But then Stéphane saved the day and bought me 4 luxury dates, which totalled £15!!!!! I mean they were incredible, but still. That's 15 items in Poundland...

A trip to England would not be complete without a special visit from the Greatest Hungarian of all time. 

As usual I felt her aura before she stepped through the door. 

And I was also lucky enough to meet another friend, who had once formed part of an impromptu women's circle, all those moons ago, in Ubud. Do you recall, Dear Reader?

No photos from that night so here we are earlier this year in her new village life 🏡 

Before it even began, our London stint was over. 

Due to the worst UX ever, Flixbus told us that our bus was departing 30 minutes early, so we gallivanted across London with our luggage, powering through the crowds at Victoria Bus Station, only to discover that this was indeed, not the case.

After departing promptly, we commenced our long journey to Amsterdam. Unfortunately, this included a night ferry ride, which made the Mauritians very unwell. I made the most of the free stuff of course, as I felt fine. 

Arriving in Amsterdam, I wasn't so excited, as I have been there three times now. 

The last was my birthday, three years ago. But the company wasn't great. 

This time, I found something new ✨ 

We had the most gorgeous appartement, and after doing what everyone does there, we went off in search of something sweet. After following the scent of free cheese, we found this bad boy: 

And after more gateaux, we ate the best fries that have ever been created - with truffle sauce on top. I am salivating just thinking about them. 

...

As I am a big hippy inside and have now had some notable experience in the realms of psychedelics, I decided to take a solo trip to spend some time with the Big Guy. 

After being humbled, I flew through the stars and was presented with exactly what I needed. Thanks Universe ✨💫

...

That night, I ate the biggest pizza I have ever seen. I won't share a photo, as I look how you would expect someone who's just come down from a 6 hour trip. 

🍕

After having been apprehensive about going to Amsterdam, I feel that in some ways, I may have got the most out of that trip (no pun intended). 

I was reminded that in each place, with every person in all the individual moments of our lives, there is something new to be found. Nothing is ever the same twice. That's the nature of Impermanence. That's the beauty of life. 

Sharing in Joy 💫

A dance in the midnight hour 

Wings spread under the light of the stars 

As the nymphaea rosea caresses the dewy air 

The nightingale in harmony with the leaves 

A rose with such allure, blood is drawn 

Turning to blossom as it falls 

The heart beat of the Universe 

Sending ripples through the air 

Energy changes form

Leaving the soft palms of hope in its wake...

Dear Reader,

Oh how I have missed you! 

I hope the last weeks have treated you well. 

It's been a time of travel, to old favourites and new marvels ✨ 

Some of you have been eager to hear... And I will keep you in anticipation for just a little longer... 

I have to say that the belly dancing was the first great thing to happen last month. 

...These photos were actually from a Bollywood workshop, which was so incredibly fun, and something I wish I'd had the confidence to do earlier in my life 💃...

Although I've been attending belly dance for some time, as my close friends will know, I can be shy in a group. And it's only recently that I've started to really feel part of the community. 

To my shock, I was put in the front row for the new song. And just for some perspective, I'm not a front row girl for most things. I cower at the back, thanking my imposter syndrome for allowing me to even get that far. 

But the right people, the right atmosphere and the right relationship with yourself- it changes all that. 

And so I was ready to attend my friend's wedding, with confidence and excitement, to wish them the happiest of ventures ahead. 

At the Mehendi and the wedding itself, I was reminded again of how far I've come. These people have accepted me. And there are lots of them. Some acquaintances, some friends and some little angels who appear on the mosaics that line the paths we choose. 

And of course I used it as an excuse to go full Indian. Because that's just the only way 💚 ♥️ 

The beach, the peace at Trou aux Biches, going for the first time there alone, meditating. Allowing some things to settle and others to create something new. 

It really was a great weekend, as it included one of the best pizzas I have ever eaten: truffle and cheese, with a pistachio cheesecake for dessert. I did question whether the apocalypse was en route as I reckoned that life doesn't get much better... 

And now ladies and gentlemen. The trip. 

Part 1.

I have the cutest boyfriend. I know, I'm so disgusting, but what else do I say when he surprises us all to lounge access 🥹

The only issue being that I had not undertaken adequate fasting to fully benefit from the limitless buffet, but I did it justice at least. 

The flight was on time, smooth and everyone drank far too much and sprayed copious amounts of perfume on ourselves in Dubai, which would be an airport theme for the entire trip 🥂 

Arriving in London Gatwick again, I had less culture shock, but still the weird sensation of dreaming. Most likely as the Mauritians were with me, and we had finally reached my home continent. 

After a disappointing encounter with the man from Sixt, we set off on our very long road trip. 

I had already found us the same diner chain that I had gone to on my last UK road trip, so we dined there and then laughed at the fact that their first experience of British food was in an American roadside diner. 

When we finally reached Manchester, we were exhausted. But the party didn't stop there, as we had to meet some special people. 

After so many years, I was reunited with my school friend, in this city where she has now made a home for herself. 

And I was also able to exchange a much needed hug with my favourite moth 🧡 

Then following a very hot sleep, I helped fulfil a childhood dream. 

And I have to admit, it was very cool. 

The luxury meal was a great bonus, but nothing beat the atmosphere of walking into the stadium and seeing people from T.V. right in front of you... 

Although, I walked in 47 minutes into the match due to a technical fault, but at least my better half could make the most of his ticket. 

They lost, as usual, but just being there was enough. 

Having never been to Manchester, I was pleasantly surprised, and happy that there was actually sunshine 🌞 

But I knew that for me, the best part was still yet to come. 

 

As tempting as it is to tell you all about London now, I will take some time to come back to the current moment. 

🎶 I'm reaching light through the shadow 🎶

See you in London 💂

Red Fody

🦋As the butterflies seemingly appear out of nowhere to remind you that every step you take is leading you further towards your being, you begin to realise what you can find when you stop looking... 

The colour red flashes before your eyes. So quickly you almost miss it ❤️ 

Among the grey swirls of rain drops that twirl in the wind, bouncing lethargically off windscreens and concrete, among the images of bright green leaves submitting to the dominance of temporal power, your eyes momentarily break away from the monotonous stare and find intrinsic beauty in an old friend. 

Reminding you why you're here. 

You're following. Trusting. Committing. 

...

It can be so hard to be authentic to ourselves. I mean what does that even mean?! 

To me, it's to let go. To stop looking for purpose and to realise you are already whole. You can just do what you want from there. Within reason. And everything just feels better. 

People like you for you...

I can't express how good it feels to finally be part of a dance group again, after so many years of dancing alone 💃

To have a man in my life who accepts my utter insanity as I bounce around the car to 90s rap for an hour. Who can sometimes read me better than myself. 

Going to a bachelorette and meeting a bunch of girls who make me feel like we are old friends reuniting. 

Sharing with them new memories. 

Offering my practice. 

Receiving love. 

Surrendering to my skin. 

Embracing the now. 

It's a short one this time, Dear Reader. 

In less than a fortnight I will return to my home continent, to become tour guide to some special people. 

And by some miracle, so many of my sweet souls will overlap 🥰 minus a few...

It will tell a lifetime. 

It will decide another. 

But first, a wedding 💒 

Sending you good vibes, Dear Reader. For showing up. 

Keep going 😘

Memories By The Thousand 💫

Dear Reader,

I come to you from a sunny morning in Curepipe. Slowly feeling my body awake after my coffee. Hearing the chirps of the birds, the rumble of engines. 

I think about my time, only a few weeks ago. A time to reflect. In my little blue car. Navigating the windy roads of Croatia. 

Yes. 

I had wanted to visit this country for some time. To see where they filmed Game of Thrones, to witness the breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline, to swim in a sea I have not touched in a decade. 

My first impression was that it's very Eastern Europe. Beautifully presented people, dry heat in the afternoons, glistening sea. 

I didn't enjoy Zagreb, as you know. However my next stop was Makarska, which was a dream. 

I had a great little apartment. I was able to find a quaint cafe with a friendly waitress, who served me a chai, made with love. 

Its narrow streets, uncrowded and inviting. The blue waters creating a peaceful border to a beautiful picture. 

Contrary to Dubrovnik, where it took 1 hour and 4 wrong turns to even enter the city...

The people milling around, dazed by the stifling heat, which bounced off the city walls. Billions of steps in every direction. I had waited so long to get here, but I soon left, happy to spend my time where it feels good. 

And it felt good in Mlini. 

My place was fine, though I missed the Makarska studio. But the view. Wow. Mountains to the left, sea to the right. And the lack of afternoon sun on my balcony meant that I could work outside. Perfect. 

Furthermore, the fact there was a bakery three minutes away serving pistachio croissants... That rendered it the best place in Croatia. 

I finally visited the sea. It was like I was cheating on my Ocean. But it was glorious in the end. My own little cove, accessible only by climbing down the cliff and invading the personal space of an old couple. 

Sinking into the stony beach, feeling the textures of the pebbles, each one a different colour, shape and carrying its own story. Drying off on a slab of rock, like a misplaced mermaid. What a way to spend the morning before work! This is called making the most of life. Exactly why I was there in that very moment. 

I would have written to you when I was there, if it weren't for the fact that it was so hot, my phone would likely have ignited in flames. 

I remember driving along the breathtaking roads and thinking, "Wow, the scene is literally twinkling before my eyes". I wanted to stop so many times, but to do so would have resulted in me joining the fish. 

Of course, I could have just spent my last day avoiding parking fines and dipping into the sea. But I had other plans. 

I had to visit my 6th country in a week, my 4th country in 5 days. I had to push that random limit to see how that felt. Probably won't do that again though. 

Bosnia. Well, in fact, Herzegovina. The Serbian, Orthodox side of the country. 

Crossing the border felt very different from entering Montenegro. 

The size of the men in the booth for one. Yelling at me in what I assume was Croatian, but with a Serbian accent. 

They let me through easily, but instantly, I started thinking about landmines. 

Yes, you heard correctly. I heard both my friend George, and his father, saying the exact same thing in their eloquent English accent, "Oh you're going to Bosnia and Herzegovina... Plenty of unexploded landmines there". 

Well, I did try to learn more about the history and what lead to these mines be placed and the horrendous genocide. However, entering the museum proved to be impossible, so instead, I just walked about Trebinje all day, feeling very lost and a little confused. 

I enjoyed working from the cafe I chose, and people were pleasant. But there was something in the air which just felt, ominous. It didn't seem unsafe and was nice in its own way. But the air felt like it was penetrated by a history that I didn't fully grasp and a complex culture that hasn't quite found its calm. 

I ended up visiting a very small monastery, which felt like it was in the middle of nowhere. 

I also passed a mansion or palace, or something which was labelled "Private Property". And when I say that I have never seen anything like it, I mean that. 

It was like the bloody Taj Mahal. Just this great big "f*** off" building plonked in the arid land of southern Herzegovina. Scarface lives there? Maybe some long lost Soviet war hero? I have no idea. But I knew that if I allowed my peaking interest to continue, I would end up in detention. 

Which I almost did. Yea. 

Because why just drive to the border? Of course when I see "Hum"on a sign, I follow that, to honour the private joke between me and my work colleague, Leah. 

Well where does this narrow, winding, stopless route lead? None other than a freaking off-site army base, with barbed wire everywhere and an eery quiet which lead me to do a 19-point turn to get the heck out of there, at 100kph.

It felt like I'd never leave this strange place where time stood still, but eventually, I crossed the boarder, after No Man's Land, back to Hrvatska. And I have never been so happy to see that flag. 

I don't know why I was unsettled. Whilst it was s good day trip, I would probably not recommend it, but rather visiting somewhere like Sarajevo, where there's more to do. 

❤️

And before I knew it, the adventure was over. 

After a late flight from Dubrovnik, I landed in London. I spent the night in a hotel which was way too far from the airport, but I made the most of my time and watched Ballerina, before taking my flight back to Ile de Maurice. 

...

I am glad that I travel. I am happy that I don't settle for easy. I accept challenges and I stay calm when things go wrong. 

This is who I am. 

And even when I find myself curled up on the grey sofa, in dreary Curepipe, I can close my eyes and feel the gratitude of a thousand wonderful memories. Things that I made happen for my life. 

And I take that with me, through everything I do, every single day. As I feel the energy slowly creeping up my spine. 

Who are you, Dear Reader?