A padi farmer at Ubud was soaking his feet in a basin of warm water, his soles a brutal landscape of calluses and cracked skin. This changed my understanding of journey from a romantic idea to that of a physical, painful truth. Every grain we eat, every path we take, is paved by someone else’s sacrifice and perseverance, and now, I tread more purposefully in life with an attitude of gratitude.

I learnt to embrace the beauty of slowness. In Hangzhou, I watched life unfold not in rushing from place to place but in the deliberate, graceful movements of a tea master warming his cups and the slow paddling of a boat on Xihu. It was a masterclass in patience, reminding my hurried soul that the most beautiful things - friendship, trust, a perfect cup of tea - cannot be rushed.

Never lose hope!

Remember the hands that poured your drinks, the smiles that needed no translation, the tales that were shared, and the kindness that made the world feel warm and wholesome again. When life grows bitter and throws lemons at you, hold on to those moments that served as a reminder that your faith in humanity was once restored by strangers who asked for nothing in return.

By the sea, surrounded by mountains and beautiful Arabic architecture that transported us into a tale from One Thousand and One Nights, we realized life isn’t about counting hours, but about living moments. Spending two nights in this peaceful oasis taught us the importance of pausing, breathing, and enjoying the present. Life is short, and sharing it with those you love most makes it infinite.

To learn to let go <3

You will realise that mother nature is the greatest architect of all time.

My journey through Bali reminded me of the magic in meeting new souls, embracing different cultures, and losing myself in breathtaking views. I’ve always known -but somehow forgotten- that the more I plan, the less I discover. So I let go, stayed present, and found peace in the unknown. Thank you, Buahan, for a journey of healing and hope.

京都の大徳寺の石庭で自分を見つめ直した

The best hotel I've ever stayed in! I booked this hotel as a treat for final night in Korea after just over 2 weeks exploring as much as I could in this amazing country. I almost felt disappointed going out in the evening as I had to sacrifice time in my amazing room. I enjoyed the views from my room, the pool and the amazing showers. Plus, the massage chair. I couldn't get out of it for 30 min.