Colombia

I’m sitting perched on a wooden table overlooking the figure eight shaped pool below, to my left, a row of multicoloured hammocks hang from the wooden beams connecting the floor with the thatched roof above. I’m listening to the background sounds of Colombian music and families conversing over dinner behind me. I’ve been in Colombia for just over a month now and have walked through the hustle and bustle of the colourful UNESCO World Heritage walled city and the vibrant streets of Getsemani in Cartagena. From its beautiful street art and multitude of restaurants and bars, I’ve also had the pleasure to witness guest appearances from Shakira (no not the real Shakira but Cartagena’s favourite pot-bellied male impersonator). Whilst there, weekend evenings consisted of people watching at Lom Bar into the early hours where street sellers ventured up and down selling their wares, cigarettes, and other things while tourists and locals danced and laughed the night away.

One of many street art pieces in Getsemani

I’ve danced salsa at the famous Cafe Havana and taken a trip to the beautiful Rosario islands with its turquoise-coloured waters and white sands.

Me at Havana Salsa Club

I moved place a bit from the safer area of Cartagena to the not so safe area of Torices. Fine by day if you use your common sense but desolate after a certain time at night and for a good reason. Regardless, my lovely basic but super clean room in Torices at Casa Torices Real 12 was a little haven inside with its gorgeous staff and beautiful pool to hang out after work. Quite different from the outside with shops full of bars and the gate to our hotel locked by 8pm. So, taxis at night to soak up the city was a must before retiring back to my hotel to sleep before soaking up the rays during the day. Unless you venture out to the islands, Cartagena’s beaches near the city are not that much to write home about but the vibrant city life and beauty of the Old Walled City and Getsemani breathe life into your veins. I even took the super touristic Chiva bus around the city one night which was an experience in itself. Everyone starts off civilised sitting down but by the end of the night everyone is up and dancing, holding on for dear life while the bus takes a quick turn left or right to beat the traffic lights. A lot of fun and a different, if not cheesy way to end a night.

Chiva Bus

Now I’ve ventured up north and am staying at a lovely hotel in El Zaino, right next to the national park – Parque de Tayrona. The family that run Randuky and their staff are beautiful and go out of their way to help. It’s a real gem of a find and a real haven. This is the tranquil life that is the perfect end to my last month of being here. My day consists of waking up at 3am to start work at 4, and at around 7:30/8 I go for my run along the road with the beautiful backdrop of the jungle and palm trees dotted along the road. The birds are in full chorus in the morning when I get back and sit down to eat my breakfast, with several hummingbirds joining me fluttering their wings rhythmically while sipping from the bird water feeder that hangs above. Breakfast consists of fresh fruit and juice along with huevos (eggs) con arepas (Colombian cornmeal cakes), omelettes or pancakes depending on the day. My morning routine (your lunchtime) provides a well needed break that sets me up for the rest of the day. It’s the perfect time for reflection, restoration and re-energisation and after a quick shower, I’m ready to finish off my last half of the day. Once work is finished at 12:30, I don my swimwear and top up my tan whilst doing my journaling, Spanish lessons, learning and reading. At about 3pm I have my dinner and by 7pm,  I’m winding down ready to start another day, feeling refreshed, focused, and raring to go. As I sit here, sipping on my cocktail and reflecting on my time, I am so very grateful to work for a company that has enabled me to continue to pursue my passion of travel while working abroad. Not a lot of companies offer their people this opportunity but what I can say is it works. Not only is it a great energy booster but I’ve found I’m more focused, more mindful of how I manage my time and I’m reaping the rewards both mentally and physically by doing something that nourishes my soul. It beats the four walls of my bedroom turned workspace and has invigorated me in ways that I can’t even describe. This has definitely been an eye opener and one hell of an experience that has given me an energy overhaul that has me smiling from ear to ear. My days are so much bouncier, and I show up to work fully invested because my surroundings are idyllic and a well needed break from the norm. My focus and drive for work has skyrocketed and I’m sure my work colleagues have noticed the difference in how I show up each day. Now who doesn’t want some of that?

Tayrona National Park

And if you’re a boss reading this, and your people are crying out for change then maybe you should experiment and see what it does for your business. I’m living proof working abroad can yield positive benefits for both parties and all I can say is that I’m super grateful to Upping Your Elvis, as not only have they entrusted me to do something that I class as a once in a lifetime opportunity, but they’ve also helped bring out the best in me in more ways than they could imagine.

From Buenos Aires to Cartagena

I’m sitting in my guest house along the Caribbean coast of Colombia – Cartagena, catching up on my writing. We’ve already had two power cuts, so I’m hoping this is just a one off and not something I need to contend with on a regular basis, after all a girl’s got work to do!

I arrived today after a 7am flight from Buenos Aires to Bogota and then onto Cartagena. I nearly didn’t make it here, because unless you have an onward flight booked from Cartagena, you’re not boarding. After several attempts to convince the flight check-in assistant that I haven’t made up my mind where I’m going next and that it could change, I had to admit defeat and book a one way out of Colombia to Caracas in Venezuela. She didn’t care where I was going or indeed if I was actually going to go – when computer says ‘no’, it means ‘no’.

And so that was that, I booked the cheapest flight out, just to give her a booking reference so I could get on the plane!

They are not playing, so be warned!

Anyway, despite the near miss and half a day of travelling, I’m finally here – my dream destination, my original 40th birthday destination (had covid and vaccinations not got in the way).

It’s mad being here as it’s probably the only time where I’ve felt really lonely. I haven’t felt like this in the whole of my travelling journey, but today I really feel it. Maybe it’s because my limited Spanish is making it hard, or perhaps I’m a bit secluded from the hustle and bustle of things, but today I feel a bit homesick and alone. I know it won’t last but I’m being honest and although being able to travel is definitely a blessing, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s not all roses and there can be some dark and lonely moments too.

Despite not doing lots in Buenos Aires, I didn’t feel lonely there, so it’s weird how some places can make you feel like that. If anything, the people here are the most friendliest I’ve come across, always saying hello and with a big smile – it’s gorgeous. So, I’m not sure where these feelings are coming from, but they’re there and their valid so I’ll accept them but won’t dwell.

That being said, I booked the Rosario islands for tomorrow so can’t wait to get out at sea. I’m looking forward to that as it’s been on my bucket list for a while.

Talking of bucket lists, although I didn’t get to see lots when in Buenos Aires (mostly because I was recovering and working), I did manage to tick off the things I said I would love to do if I ever went to Argentina. I watched a Tango Show – La Esquina Homero Manzi, eat steak and drank wine at Las Cabras and had a Tango lesson with Palermo Tango Studios. Not bad for someone who wasn’t even planning on going to Argentina on this trip. That’s all thanks to becoming ill in Rio, so every cloud eh!

How Rio Ruined Me

I’m sitting in my Air BnB in Buenos Aires reflecting on my recent escapade
to the party capital of Brazil and what can I say?? Or what will I choose to
reveal, might be a better way of rephrasing it 😉

If one thing’s for certain, the Brazilian’s sure know how to party and my
mistake was thinking I could keep up. There’s only so much dancing, lack of
sleep and Caipirinha’s my body could take before it was time to say goodbye to
carnival.

Straight off the plane and pretty much into a bloco (street party), was how
carnival started off for me. And it never stopped. I was averaging around 4
hours sleep a night and each day was a top up from the night before. Cachaça
was in my bloodstream, so no wonder the mozzies loved me. Bitten, burnt and no
time for a hangover (purely because I never let myself go a day without
drinking while in party mode), it was soon inevitable that I became ill.

My immune system had taken a bashing and after almost a week of partying, it gave
up and I was confined to the dark and dingy, ant ridden room of my guest house,
shivering, alone and thinking I had Dengue Fever. Perhaps it was a blessing in
disguise, the party girl was finally forced to hang up her dancing shoes before
her last hurrah! Thank goodness! Maybe I wouldn’t be here to tell the tale.

After being sick in Rio with flu-like symptoms, a rash and what seemed like
a chest infection, I bit the bullet and decided to book a flight to Buenos
Aires to get out. My physical state was up and down – one minute I was
feeling okay and then terrible the next. I made a trip to Christ The Redeemer
one day as was feeling better but then soon had to come home as I thought I
would faint. 

When finally in Buenos Aires, I got some antibiotics and now 3
days in, I am so much better than I was. Although the lethargy is still a
thing, I feel like I am getting back to my normal self, bit-by-bit. Despite the
unfortunate bout of sickness, Rio was a spectacular vibe. I had lots of fun,
met so many friendly and kind people and was truly welcomed into the community.
Not only did I get to watch the carnival parade, but I even got to be part of
it too, which is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I sit here with a smile on
my face as I think back on the magical moments, the costumes, the laughter, and
the characters I met. Rio De Janeiro, you certainly made a lasting impression
and with enough partying and memories to last a lifetime – I fondly say Tchau
and obrigada!

Recommendations:

If you are ever in this neck of the woods then check out Gringopalooza – run
by Jay and Alan. Two great guys who are really welcoming and run several WhatsApp
groups for Rio with hundreds of members. Send them a message and get added to
the WhatsApp groups. It’s a great community and you will meet so many amazing
people by turning up to the events etc. Have fun!

It feels good to be back…

It’s been a while since my last post, I apologise… but I haven’t travelled since last July (Lake Bled in Slovenia) and quite frankly it has sucked. I mean I did enjoy many alternative activities in the lead up to Christmas and New Year, but for me, there’s nothing that beats a new destination to explore, a chance to escape from reality and a sense of adventure.

For the first seven months of last year, I was jetting off to a new European destination each month – a rather extravagant birthday present to myself, but you only turn 40 once right?! Hence my blogging was on point – I was writing about each trip, which meant monthly blogs. However, after my last holiday, my posts soon stopped and before I knew it, it was 2024 and I was making New Year’s Resolutions again! How did that happen?

What I do know is that going from travelling regularly to not at all for six months was a bit of a shock to the system, and now looking back at it, I think it probably was a contributing factor to the low moments that greeted me from time to time.

However, I’m super grateful I was able to experience regular trips, especially as some can’t even go on holiday once a year. And I realise that me moaning about not getting away for six months might sound super entitled. I’m not, I’m blessed and I also don’t have any kids, a mortgage, or a partner so all my spare money can go on travel, unlike some.

Travel is my vice, my Achilles heel and will always have my heart and while I’m young (well younger than some), free, and single, I might as well explore this beautiful world any chance I can get.

And that’s what I am doing!

As I write this I’m sitting on the long black chairs at Guayaquil Airport, looking out onto the runway while the baggage trucks manoeuvre back and forth loading other people’s prize possessions to and from the plane. For some it’s home sweet home, for others the dream destination brings a sense of elation as they venture into the unknown. And for me, I eagerly await my flight to Lima, my second of four flights with the final destination being Brazil.

I’ve been away for three weeks and already spent an incredible week in Peru, mostly walking the magical Inca trail to Machu Picchu with its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, cloud forest and archaeological remains. From the Sacred Valley to the Andes Mountains, including the toughest and steepest hike to Dead Woman or Warmiwanusqa (in Quechua language), the trail was breath-taking (in both senses).

Machu Picchu

After Peru, I hoped over to Ecuador where I worked for two weeks in the Galapagos on Santa Cruz Island. I can’t tell you how magical it was to be surrounded by wildlife and for them to not be afraid of humans. It’s unbelievable! I visited so many places after work or on the weekends. I managed to hang with the Iguanas on the pristine white sands and clear waters of Tortuga Bay, snorkel in a saltwater swimming hole (Las Grietas), snorkel with sea lions at Santa Fe, watch Turtles in their natural habitat and dive with white tip sharks, rays, and turtles at Mosquera and North Seymour. Three weeks in and I have done so much and have loved every minute of it. I’m full of energy, super grateful and can’t wait for the next adventure – Rio Carnival I’m coming for you!

Las Grietas

Swimming with sea lions at Santa Fe

Tortuga Bay

Something in the air

Life can be a bit funny at times, you think that you have it sussed and you are heading in the right direction, then out of nowhere, something happens that shakes things up again. Believe me, I think these things happen to teach us lessons, to nudge us, to wake us up from our slumber and force us to change direction. “Hey, wake up, you’re going the wrong way”. Those gut feelings, those thoughts, warning signs or feelings of uneasiness that things are not “quite right” are all little tell-tale signs that we sometimes ignore. It’s only when life throws you a curveball that sometimes you start to revisit those feelings and look inside. Why am I feeling this way? What am I missing? What do I need to do?

I’m a great believer in ask and you shall receive, if you ask the universe for enough guidance and we allow ourselves to just “be” and “feel” – we will find the answer to what we are searching for or what we might “want to do”. Of course, some curveballs are pain staking, gut wrenching events that you may never understand. I say this as I think about my mum, who was taken too early from this world and although it’s painful to say – there was a reason for it.

Everything happens for a reason! Maybe she can finally be free, maybe it was to teach us that life is too short and to not take those around us for granted. I do not know, but what I do know is that through grief, I have learnt how to cope, I have learnt more about myself, my strengths, my weaknesses, I have put more effort into working on me. I am by no means a finished product and have so much more to learn and I will make mistakes, many more, with some repeated until I learn from them. But what I do know is I have definitely been on a journey and learnt along the way. The good, the bad and the ugly – the truth. I used to see vulnerability as weak and would not wear it on my sleeve, now I’m learning to embrace it and show it. It’s okay not to be okay at times, it’s okay to jump headfirst into things, it’s okay to not have the answers, it’s okay to love, be loved and not be scared to be true and honest. If I can’t be honest with myself and allow my vulnerability to be shown, then can I expect truth from others in return? It’s hard as no one wants to get hurt but I think sometimes it’s worth the risk. The risk of showing the real you to those who you want to be part of your life – whether that’s family, friends, partners, or colleagues. There’s nothing wrong with taking a gamble sometimes as you never know what you get back in return. Showing vulnerability doesn’t come easily to me so I need to continue to work on it if I want people to see me for me. My journey is still playing out, where I will end up, I do not know, all I know it’s not time to get off at that stop yet – well not until I meet my maker.

It feels that this year has been full of ups and downs for many in my circle, perhaps there is something in the air, but it definitely has been a rollercoaster of events and emotions for many and I am sending lots of love and peace to all who need it right now.

As for me, I realise I still have that feeling inside, I’m searching for something but don’t know what. I watched the documentary “The Deepest Breath” on Netflix last night (really good) and I could totally relate to how Stephen felt on his quest to find something that fulfilled him. That’s the feeling I’ve had for years – what I am searching for, I do not know, but certain events have torn off that plaster and reopened that wound, which has been there all along. I just covered it up. I’ve got some decisions to make moving forward and a lot of guidance from the universe is needed to “show” me the right path. After all I have one chance of life in this realm and I don’t know how long I’m here for, so I need to make the most of it.

Which is what I’m doing tomorrow as I head off to Weymouth to undertake my 4-day RYA Practical Day Skipper course. Hopefully a few days at sea will help unravel my brain a bit, but either way, I’m super excited as it should be a lot of fun!

Sunning it in Slovenia

Wednesday 5 July

And we are off and on route to the North Terminal at Gatwick after parking the car. It’s a short ride but our lounge awaits, and we are eager to get there as soon as possible, as it’s all eating into our drinking time. Totally misjudged this one and will put it down to tiredness as it doesn’t take a genius to work out that we should have left a lot earlier to actually enjoy our time there. At this rate we will have about half hour. Better start on the shots!!

After a quick stop at the mediocre lounge with a short time to eat and drink, we made
it to the plane on time. I’m really tired and after a few nodding dog and catching flies’ moments – I reckon I’ve managed to top up my 4-hour sleep with another half hour in the bank. The sun is shining bright through the airplane window, which is a relief as it was predicted to be a rainy forecast. Fingers crossed; it stays this way.

So far so good, the sun is shining, the sky is blue, and the view is picture perfect. Lake Bled is stunning, the backdrop of the mountains, the blue lake, the green trees dotted around the winding paths, this is something I can get used to.

I’m sitting waiting for our starter, which we are sharing – some dumplings with tarragon in lemon sauce, and I’ve opted for a nice glass of wine at The Gostilna pri Planincu Pub. It’s cute here, red, and white checked tablecloths cover the small wooden tables and wooden plaques line the stone white walls. It’s a nice little rustic pub, with a nice outside area, offering a perfect way to spend a bit time soaking up the rays and putting the world to rights.

We decide to do a restaurant and bar crawl and have now made our way to Grajska Plaza overlooking the lake. It’s hot!! We’ve gone for our second starter to share – roasted red beet with goat cheese, pistachio, and balsamic vinegar, along with another glass of wine. Perfect! The starter is so good that we had to share a main – pasta (Pljukanci) with slices of beef, aged local cheese, and white truffle oil – absolutely beautiful. As the main is just as nice if not nicer, we decide to go all out and get a traditional Bled Cream Cake for dessert. Yummy!

After a walk round the rest of the beautiful lake, we decide we are peckish yet again
and try  Ostarija Peglez’n. I opt for the spaghetti with shrimp – again another really tasty
dish. The food here is amazing and the small intimate setting with hanging plants from the ceiling add to the charm of this little quaint restaurant.

Thursday 6 July

I’m starting the day off with a run, a nice little 4-miler (according to my phone) around the lake to get me fuelled and ready for the day ahead. I still can’t get over how stunning it is here – real picture postcard moments.

Next up is bike time, we rent some bikes, get our healthy pack lunch sorted and now we are on route to Vintgar Gorge – a 1600 m long and 250 m deep gorge on the Eastern part of the Triglav National Park.

It’s a bit of a hilly start to the gorge but the reward is worth it when I see the beautiful green and white frothy gushing water of the Radovna River crashing its way through the gorge.
There’s something about water that just has that calming effect on me. Combine that with the melodic sounds of the birds and the cool mist in the air and you have a little slice of paradise right here. Dreamy!

The gorge is approximately a 45-minute walk across winding bridges and paths and ends with the 13-metre high Šum river waterfall. It’s then another 45 mins through the village and woodland to the parking lot where we locked our bikes.

The ride back is downhill and a lovely treat after the hills we endured to get to the gorge. I’m picking up speed and loving the fresh wind on my face as the adrenaline starts to release as I zoom back to the town.

Bikes sorted and now time for a bit of Prosecco on the banks of the lake – today has
been beautiful.

Friday 7 July

Another run round the stunning lake before getting sorted and renting some paddle boards. I’m super excited to get on the water and get my core working – this jelly belly needs to go! We’ve rented them for the day, so let’s see how long I last!

It’s so refreshing to be out and paddling in the gorgeous sun. We take a slow paddle to Bled Lake Island and chill on the water with our drinks that we pre-made. Some locals have house tunes blaring from a speaker, so we float around basking in the sun while listening to a Defected playlist in the background. This is heaven!!

After hours on the water, we head back to hand back our paddle boards, this is a lot harder than on the way here as we are battling the wind and current. Eventually we make it back within the hour, grab a quick drink then make our way to a small local secluded spot to sit on the bank of the Sava Bohinjka River. The birds are busy chirping away in the nearby trees and there isn’t a soul insight apart from us. It’s the perfect end to another perfect day.

Saturday 8 July

We hit the lakes again and get a big boy paddle board out for two of us. It’s enough to fit four so a bit tougher to paddle but we make it work. Again, the water is beautiful, and the sun is hot, so we are onto a winner. We visit Lake Bled Island and this time visit the church and the Belfry viewing tower. Legend has it that a widow who lived at Bled Castle and loved her husband very much melted all her gold and silver to make a bell for the chapel on Bled Lake
Island. But when the bell was transported, a storm struck, and the bell and boatmen sunk. The widow was devastated and went broken hearted on a pilgrimage to Rome. When the pope heard her sad story, he donated a bell for the church.

Now if you ring the bell three times and make a wish – it’s supposed to come true. Yes, I made a wish, and no I’m not saying, otherwise it won’t come true!

Sunday 9 July

I’m sitting on the banks of the lake again. It’s hot, chilled and the perfect end to a great holiday. It’s our last day today and so it’s really time to unwind before the journey back this evening. I’ve had the most amazing time and feel incredibly lucky to have experienced the beauty of Slovenia.

This will be my last trip for a while as visiting a new country each month for a year has been fulfilled. In fact, I’ve visited 13 new countries in 12 months. It’s been amazing but a lot to keep up, so I am looking forward to a bit more chill time and more money in the bank. I’m super grateful, that I’ve been able to do it and have seen and experienced so much over the past year.

Slovenia has been unexpectedly wonderful, and I couldn’t think of a better country to finish with. All I know is I’m going back feeling good, grateful and with a big smile on my face.

 

Visit to the Vatican

Friday 9 June I’m sitting in Wondertree at the South Terminal of Gatwick airport looking forward to a nice salad and glass of wine before I set off to Rome in a few hours. My flight has slightly been delayed and I am feeling a little bit more relaxed than I did a few hours ago. I’ve been to three different destinations (Brussels, Ibiza, and Mallorca) over the space of a month and was feeling slightly overwhelmed at having just arrived back last week, only to set off again this week. Disturbed sleep patterns, busy work schedules on top of everything else called life, meant that since being back, I felt that I haven’t had much ‘me time’. Seriously, the ‘woe is me’ story was real a few hours ago where I felt that my ever increasing ‘to do’ list was permanently renting space in my head and getting me worried about what I must do next week before even leaving for this trip. However, after a good talking to myself and telling my inner voice to ‘shut up’, I am now feeling more relaxed and excited to be eating pasta and visiting the Vatican City.

Saturday 10 June

It’s amazing what a bit of sun can do. I’m lying on the beige sun lounger by the stone paved floor of the 25-meter pool. Trees are dotted around me, and the sounds of the birds happily chirp in the distance.

Despite the sounds of the motorway traffic trying to drown out my zen-like state, I am super relaxed and loving it. I am the only one here! There’s blue sky above and I am in my element topping up my Vitamin D levels – bliss. All my stressing yesterday has vanished – now this is what it is all about.

I’m now sitting on a wooden bench in the Vatican Museums entrance, waiting for my tour to start. I’m welcoming a quick little recharge after the hours of walking I did earlier along the green water of the River Tiber to the Castel Saint Angelo and then on to the Piazza Navona, The Pantheon and St Peters Square before making my way to my final destination – The Vatican.

The Vatican Museums are beautiful – all the art, the Roman sculptures with the life-like eyes and the grounds are unbelievable.

The Sistine Chapel is also stunning, I mean how can it not be what with the famous work of Michelangelo and other great masters such as Pietro Perugino, Sandro Botticelli, Biagio D’Antonio, Cosimo Rosselli, Luca Signorelli and Domenico Ghirlandaio.

However, it is not a pleasant experience. I’m in a room with hundreds of people and feel like I am at a festival as it is so crowded. I can’t stay long, but despite the noise and the crowd, I still get a sense of awe as I look up to the ceiling and see parts of the book of Genesis depicted beautifully above and stories of Jesus and Moses on the North and South walls.

I’m zapped and the sun is still shining bright as I veer away from the Vatican City and make my way to a restaurant recommended by another tour guide – Brandamante.

Negroni’s and some pasta is the perfect way to end a beautiful day. As I sip on the strong tastes of one of Italy’s classic cocktails, I breath it all in and smile – what a lucky girl I am!

Sunday 11 June I’m trying my very best to channel my inner calm after the taxi driver has taken me to the wrong airport! I thought it was a bit strange when I saw the flight screen in the departure terminal and noticed my flight was not up there. I am meant to be flying from Rome Ciampiono and had my transfer booked through the hotel, but instead the taxi has taken me to Rome Leonardo De Vinci, somewhat 40 mins away from the airport I am meant to be at. My flight is at 6:10 and it’s now 4:50, there is no way it is going to work. That sudden sinking feeling of knowing you’re going to miss your flight and there is nothing you can do about it has started to surge. Thankfully, I am able to book another flight with Vueling to leave a couple of hours later and I am sat in Gate E looking forward to the journey back. It could have been worse, and I am mindful that changing my mindset is key to the rest of the day going swimmingly. In fact, now I’ve got another flight, I can now see the funny side of it – another story in the Nadia travel saga. I’ve also somehow managed to rip half of my nail off so this inner zen needs to come out in full force so that the rest of the day is a good day! Sitting here reflecting on my whirlwind tour of Rome, I have to say there is something special about the city. Despite the unbelievable crowds, the rip-off taxis, and the latest mishap – it truly is a city that has a certain lure, a ‘Je Ne Sais Quoi’ about it. With the cobbled streets, beautiful buildings and a plethora of restaurants and bars, it really is a lover’s paradise and extremely suited to those who like a little adventure and are happy to soak it all up and get lost in it all for a while.

Brussels and Mussels

We nearly didn’t make it. What with the national train strikes, our chance of getting to Kings Cross St Pancras was looking slim, as neither of us wanted to spend fortunes on a hotel or taxi’s just for a day trip to Brussels. However, my beautiful sister offered up her weekend away at the family flat in Northolt so that we could stay there and take the tube instead. Thanks Naomi.

So, we finally made it, we are aboard the Eurostar to Brussels, excited and feasting on some smoked salmon, fruit and some fizz to kill the time. I feel like a little kid on a school trip. Eager to get there but just enjoying the journey too.

I’m sitting outside Café Capitale on the cobbled streets of Rue du Midi enjoying a coffee and pain au chocolate pit stop before exploring. It’s 11:30 and the sun is shining bright and already 18 degrees. Blue skies ahead, it’s going to be a nice day. Despite feeling like I need matches to hold my eyes open from the meagre two hours sleep I had, I’m enjoying the sounds of multiple different conversations all around me – English, Arabic, French. It’s warming to hear the diversity in the city, which is reinforced by the extensive choice of cuisines we pass along the way – Cuban, Thai, Middle Eastern and many more. The city has a plethora of options and with the LGBTQ flags flying high through various streets, it obviously is very open and welcoming – truly warming!

After miles of walking and taking in the sights such as the Grand Place, Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, various street art, and amazing buildings – we decide it’s time for a well-deserved rest. After a cherry beer at Cafe Bebo, we opt for something more substantial and happen to find a great people watching spot at the Lobster House, where we feast on Moules frites, scallops and prawns along with some aperol spritz to wash it down – yum!

After some more walking and drinks, it’s time to head back to Brussels Midi for our train home. It’s been a great day but a rather long one. If you like your food and love to shop, then this city should be on your list, especially as its super easy to get to. It’s my first time taking the Eurostar and I’m impressed – a great alternative to flying and lots of fun – just next time I’ll make sure I spend at least one night in the city!

Gloomy Gothenburg

Sunday 23 April

We arrive about midday and are told by the very friendly tourist information clerk that we just missed the 20-degree sunny weather by a day. Well, no matter the weather, the cows still have to be milked they say. Nice and true sentiment but I still can’t help feeling slightly robbed – thanks sun gods! 

Without letting the dismal climate conditions affect our disposition, we download the “To Go” app and pay for our 72-hour travel pass. We were told we will only need Zone A – wrong! In fact, we need Zone B from the airport and then A from another point. A bit of a shock to us considering that we got the information from the tourist information counter – but hey, oh well! 

Despite the confusion and purchasing of extra tickets, we finally arrive at our hotel – Scandic No 5. Check in isn’t until 3 and it’s only 1, so we have a little mooch around the deserted streets. Everything is pretty much closed, but we happen to pass a Shawarma place where we grab a bite to eat to pass the time. I opt for a beef Shawarma Bowl, and for the bargain price of £10 it is even tastier. Sweden can be known to be expensive, so I am more than happy to eat economically for our lunchtime affair. 

Once checked in, we jump on one of the blue trams to Haga – one of Gothenburg’s oldest neighbourhoods. We walk along the cobbled streets taking in the various bars and restaurants that line either side. It is pretty, but empty. We stumble upon an Irish bar and go in for an alcoholic beverage or two 😉

The very attentive barman tells us that Sundays are extremely dead. Most things are closed, and no one comes out – apparently it was heaving on Friday and Saturday and people were out with tops off soaking in the rays – damn, I mucked up on timings, but hey that’s why the flights were so cheap!

With that in mind, we head back, grab a salad from the supermarket as the restaurants by us are closed and we have a reasonably early night. 

Monday 24 April

After a beautiful breakfast (included in the price of the hotel) we make our way via tram to Salthomens Brygga to catch a ferry to do a bit of island hopping off the Gothenburg archipelago. Our Zone A travel card works for us on all the trams, buses, and ferries here, which is amazing. 

We sit in the waiting area waiting to get the ferry to Vrångö, it’s a miserable day but I’m excited to get aboard and explore the islands. I love the sea so travelling by boat rather than any other transport is a real treat.

After about 45 minutes, we arrive in Vrångö and I’m so excited to explore. This island is one of the smallest and is home to around 300 people. Some of the houses are huge and it’s super clean and quiet. We walk through the trees following a path to some boulders that dot the shore, where we stop for a while to breathe in the fresh sea air – it literally is a ghost town!

Once again, everything is shut so we can’t have our slap-up shellfish platter as planned. Boo! Not discontented, we wait for the ferry to the next island Donsö. 

This island is a bit bigger but again eerily quiet, we happen to stumble across the only restaurant open – a pizza place called Noretti Pizzeria and Restaurant and I grab a prawn salad, which is nice and fresh, but no consolation to my seafood platter I was salivating over earlier. Either way we are satisfied and avoided the hangry stage so I would say we are winning. 

Last stop is Styrsö, the biggest island of them all, and despite being larger in size it also looks like it has nothing here, again it is super quiet, and we don’t see any shops or restaurants on our walk. Perhaps we needed to walk in a different direction – who knows, but combined with the weather and lack of facilities, we decide to make our way back to the ferry to go home. 

I can imagine the summer months on the islands are heaving and even if they aren’t – you could easily spend a day there walking, sunbathing, and swimming, and if you brought your own picnic – it would be the perfect day out. 

Once back on dry land we head in the direction towards the Irish pub we visited yesterday and take a walk down the road the barman recommended – Andra Långgatan. It still looks quiet, but we decide to just pop into one of the bars – Dirty Records for a drink. It’s a cute little bar with vinyl over the walls and pictures and posters of bands. It’s quite busy in here but we soon realise that the bar only offers, beer, wine or cider and so we opt to go somewhere else and head into Cello Bar  instead. 

This small little intimate bar with exposed brickwork, pictures and cellos dotted around has a great cocktail list and hits the spot nicely. After working our way through some of the menu we decide to head for some food at Tapasbaren via the number 9 tram.

The drinks at Cello bar were strong so I’m already slightly tipsy on arrival at this busy tapas restaurant. The ambience is great and the sounds of people laughing and talking while eating in the warmly lit room or by the bar demonstrate the relaxed vibe all around. The waitress is super helpful and goes above and beyond to explain the full tapas menu. We go for the mushroom croquettes with pickled apple and chilli mayonnaise, broccoli with miso and tofu cream, chilli and peanuts, the blue mussels with coconut milk, coriander and ginger, the lamb with polenta, chimichurri and beans and the Swedish fish with nettle sauce, horseradish, and kohlrabi, all washed down with some sangria. WOW – the food is unreal here. The tastes, the intricate pairing of flavours, the presentation – everything is really good – this is a real gem of a find. We stay for the whole evening and even opt for some dessert to finish off our last glass of sangria before making our way back to the hotel.

Tuesday 24 April

It’s our last day today and we have a lot of time to kill after checkout, before heading back to home so we have a little wander and eat some lunch at Yubi Asian Eatery. I opt for a few small dishes – the stir-fried prawn and veg with teriyaki sauce, salt and pepper cuttlefish and chicken dumplings. All very pleasant and tasty but not the same as our amazing feast last night. With belly’s full, we make our way to the airport to begin our journey back home. 

All in all, it’s been a lovely trip despite the weather and quietness of it all – but sometimes it’s nice to be able to take things easy and not be amongst the hustle and bustle. However, I do feel that another visit is in order to see the city for what it truly is like in the summer and next time I won’t come on a Sunday! 

Skiing in Slovakia

Friday 17 March

It’s that time again where I venture across the waters to another European destination – this month, Slovakia awaits. I’m sat on the plane eagerly waiting for take-off as my end destination involves a short stay near the Tatra mountains and hopefully some skiing. 

After clearing security, we pick up the car and begin our 2-hour journey driving through the winding rows lined with trees. Every now and again, we get teased with a small patch of snow and wonder if we are a bit too late to catch the last ski runs of the season. 

Then we catch a glimpse of the majestic snow filled Tatra Mountains in front – they have not disappointed, and their magical lure excites us more as we get closer to this part of the Carpathian Mountain range. 

We arrive at Čerešňový Sad – a suite of lovely spacious apartments about 20 mins drive from the mountains. We are the only ones here and we rejoice in the stillness and quietness surrounding us, while sipping wine on our large terrace. The High Tatras are calling us and I can’t wait!

Saturday 18 March

It’s 5:56am, I’m outside watching the big orange sun slowly turn to white as it rises and lights up the sky. I suck in the grand view of the white topped peaks belonging to the majestical Tatra Mountains on the horizon, while the ensemble of birds perfectly orchestrate their sweet morning call. Just bliss.

We arrive at the car park, park up and jump on the bus to the ski resort, where we buy our ski passes, rent our gear, and take our lesson with Theodor, our ski instructor. This isn’t my first rodeo but I’m keen to start from the basics again and soon we are doing turns and making lots of use of the snow plough on the way down. Once at the bottom, it’s back up on the button lift and repeat. This is the format for most of the day and I love it.

After donning our skis, we jump on the ski lift to the top of the mountain. The view is spectacular, a blanket of snow everywhere while a bed of green Norway spruces line the path below for as long as the eye can see. The sky is brilliant blue with the odd fluffy cloud dotted around. I lie down on the crunchy white snow with the sun beaming down my face – this is idyllic and the perfect end to the day. 

Sunday 19 March

It’s Mother’s Day today. I forgot initially until I saw the Facebook posts and messages. Maybe I tried to block it out and live in the moment. However, now I am now feeling sad, I miss my mum but glad I had her as my mum for a huge part of my life. She spent so much time with us as kids, took us places, fuelled our imagination, kick started our love of exploring things from food to experiences and more. She was my biggest advocate and always supported me in everything I did. Miss you mum and hope you are dancing in heaven today. I’m going to go and explore today as you would have wanted me to do. Love you. 

We have arrived in Starý Smokovec a small little town located in the central part of the High Tatras to catch the funicular to Hrebienku for a little walk and to see the Tatra Ice Dome. After a 3 min ride up to the mountains, we arrive at Hrebienku and walk to the Ice dome, which house several ice sculptures. It’s cold but mesmerising – there is something about ice art that is really magical. I stand in awe walking around these giant sculptures with their intricate details – this must have taken some time. 

Soon we are on our way following the snowy and slippery trails, taking in the beautiful mountain landscapes and green trees. Finally, we arrive at a little stream with great big boulders and stop for a few pictures on the small wooden bridge before we head back. I write a message to mum in the snow then continue back toward Starý Smokovec on foot instead of opting for the funicular back. 

We stop for a bite to eat at Starý Šmakovec restaurant. After deliberation I opt for the game goulash with cranberries, baby plum and Carlsbad dumplings for my main, blueberry cheesecake with forest fruit for dessert, and an indulgent hot chocolate with whipped cream for an extra treat – very naughty but nice! Now I have a food coma and it’s time to drive back to the comfort of our beautiful apartment overlooking the mountains. 20 mins later and we are back. I’ve had an amazing time and as I reflect on the beauty, I think of my beautiful mama and raise a glass to her in the sky.

 

High Tatras view from path near our apartment