travel

New Year, not New You.

Posted on by Keya

Good day to you my raring to go readers,

I hope you all had an amazing Christmas break with your families and a very Happy New Year. As always, I would love to thank you for taking the time to subscribe and read these posts each month and welcome to the new  joiners, your support is greatly appreciated and I am so grateful to have this platform to explore my creative writing with each blog.

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With the emergence of the new decade upon us, I have been thinking a lot about the notion of setting New Years resolutions. I am not sure about you but I find that each year a small sense of doom overcomes me as the last few days of December pass by, at the thought of making a resolution that I can actually stick to and not sabotage by the end of January (the usual things like giving up chocolate – I mean really, I had no chance) or not being such a sucker when it comes to a fashion bargain.  Its just not a nice feeling that you have failed at something already in the first month of the New Year.

I am sure you have seen on social media and on advertising campaigns, the slogan ‘New Year, New Me’ with companies promising their new wonder products can help you reach that dress size you have always dreamed of or have that glossy, shiny hair that we see on models in magazines but all that crosses my mind is, should there be a new me – what is so fundamentally wrong with the version that was left behind in 2019?

I wholeheartedly agree that if you have your heart set on perhaps quitting smoking or to get out in the great outdoors and lead a healthier lifestyle then that is a great goal to set yourself and sometimes we need a milestone like the 1st of January to break old habits but it pains me to think that people will be feeling really rubbish about themselves if they have a little slip up. Life is genuinely challenging enough, try not to put that added pressure on yourself also!

So personally this year, I have set myself a new goal NOT a resolution for 2020 and that is to just BE PRESENT. By this I mean, as adults we are always subconsciously worrying about or making plans for what is to come in the future or regrets from the past, we tend to lose sight of what is in front of us right now, being in the moment. We forget to take a second to revel in the sights, sounds, colours and variety in the world around us and that is a very sad thing to think of in my opinion.

Whatever New Years aspirations you have set in your own lives for 2020, just remember that we only get one life, so make memories, spend time with loved ones and friends, travel to those bucket list destinations or invest in that statement winter coat – just LIVE it to the fullest.

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Until next time, take care

Keya x

 

 

 

 

Siestas and sunsets in Santorini

Posted on by Keya

Good day to you my olive loving, fetalicious globetrotters,

I hope you all had an amazing summer and made lots of holiday memories. We not so long ago got back from the amazing island of Santorini and I certainly left with a heavy heart as I had the most amazing time. With the white washed, blue domed buildings, quiet sandy beaches and unbelievable local produce, for this months post I thought I would deep dive into this incredible place.

For this years summer vacation we had a handful of locations in mind but as soon as we saw the pictures and read the reviews we were sold on this magical gem in Greece. As soon as we had made our reservation the excited countdown began. After lots of research about the best places to stay we decided on Perissa, which with the black sandy beach on the doorstep of our incredible accommodation, Petri Suites we were over the moon as soon as walked into our room. With the white cave exposed walls, huge double sinks and fluffy robes and matching slippers it instantly felt like home. Also who doesn’t love an egg chair?

Our days were filled with swimming in the ocean and lunches over looking the crystal clear waters. One of our favourite spots was a restaurant called La plage noire. The squid and calamari were the freshest we could imagine and their crab and mango salad is a must try.

We even managed to head out on a fishing trip off the coast. The morning started off with a short sail to pick up the nets from the previous night to see what had been snapped up and we then headed to a secluded cove where we could go snorkelling, try our own hand at fishing and to just seal the deal whatever was caught was barbecued on the boat and we had it for lunch. Could you possibly get any fresher I hear you say?

Our nights were filled with visiting the many quaint towns which were easily accessible as we managed to hire a car for a week during our stay which is definitely a good idea should you visit. Every town has its own unique style however the sunsets never failed to disappoint no matter what location we watched them in. From Oia to Thira to cosy courtyard al fresco dining in Megalochori, the feta, cherry tomatoes, olives and my favourite – watermelon were mouth watering wherever we went.

The local wines were incredible too, each time we usually asked the restaurant staff to recommend a local vineyards wine to try and if you are a bit of a grape lover than the bottles from Sigallas Estate and Venetesanos were our particular top choices. We even partook in a wine tasting experience at the latter which was a first for me and it definitely did not disappoint. The pairings of crab croquettes with a soft white wine and rich dark meat with a bold red were a shock to the senses.

I couldn’t talk about Santorini if I didn’t go into the unbelievable sunsets they have pretty much every night there. As the sun began to set around 7.15pm, the sky was ablaze with burnt oranges, fiery reds and then the sun would just disappear into the ocean before your very eyes. What I loved about this island is, that no matter where you are, the restaurants and bars all have a perfectly placed terrace or veranda to easily add to your photo album each evening and bathe in its ethereal, romantic glow with your loved one.

I know that a destination has made an impression on me when a smile tugs at the corners of my mouth as soon as I reminisce about it and this is definitely the case with Santorini. It has the perfect mix of places to explore and is the ultimate in relaxing and chilled if you want to unplug and unwind from the stresses of our careers. It also holds a special place in my heart, because this is where I got engaged – such an amazing surprise and obviously I’m ecstatic. Whatever special memories you want to make in your own lives, this island is definitely going to help you make them.

Until next time,

Take care

Keya x

Homely Houston.

Posted on by Keya

Good afternoon to you my travel loving trendsetters,

This past weekend I returned back from a business trip to attend a training course. Although I have been to Texas once before, this time around I got to see and do a bit more to experience the great hospitality and homeliness in Houston.

(Image courtesy of google images)

On the first day I arrived in the US, I was taken to my hotel which was the Sorella in the City Centre and the pictures definitely did not disappoint. The rooms were modern, airy and spacious and the pool area was almost magical when it was lit up with twinkly lights after sunset. I spent my evenings meandering the pedestrianised walkways window shopping and deciding what restaurant to try next. (If you are ever in the area, I would really recommend the Smokehouse for their huge selection of barbecued meats and delicious salads)

I had heard that July was a particularly hot month in Texas but the humidity that sends your senses into overdrive the minute you step outside was definitely something to get acclimatised to. As usual, I was faced with the conundrum of what to pack which was both professional, office attire but also light and cool. I settled on fit and flare styles in bright prints with tanned Ralph Lauren sandals or knee length floaty dresses with embellished flats. I am sure those on my course could definitely tell I wasn’t from the US not only from my accent. Haha.

With Houston being a predominately Oil and Gas city, as you can imagine there were designer shops mixed in with your usual high street favourites catering for all bank balances and occasions. Some of the cars which were being valet parked outside my hotel were incredible too – a particular favourite of mine was this postbox red Ferrari.

One of the things which astounded me before and was proven once again on this trip is that southern charm really is infectious. From taxi drivers to restaurant staff, everyone was so friendly and genuinely seemed interested in your day which is so refreshing. With our busy lives working and living in London it can sometimes be a struggle to forget about the stresses of the day and smile 😊

Although my trip was short in duration, it definitely left a lasting memory in my mind. I love travelling – experiencing new walks of life and cultures and I can pretty much guarantee that no matter which city you visit in America, it will be completely different from the last in a good way.

Where will your adventures take you next?

Until next time,

Take care, Keya x

Green garden

Posted on by Keya

Good morning to you my nature loving readers,

From earlier posts you would know that I LOVE travel. Whether it be practising yoga amongst the rice paddy fields in Bali or relaxing on the beach in Cyprus – I am in my element. For the past few months however, I have stayed a little closer to home and visited some beautiful places within the UK. For this months post I wanted to delve into the garden just beyond our doorsteps.

My parents have been taking me on holiday since I was three years old, my first destination being Portugal. Although I cannot remember that trip specifically, the bug must have stuck because as I’ve got older I have tremendously enjoyed researching new countries to visit – either going with family, friends, as a couple or on my own! I guess, I just never really considered staying in the UK for my summer holiday – boy was I wrong though.

I love this time of year in the UK. When the sun is shining, everything just seems to come alive. The grass looks greener, the flowers in full bloom and it just makes me want to get outside and enjoy nature at its finest.

Growing up as a teenager I loved Kate Moss, as I can imagine many girls my age did at the time. I remember reading an interview she gave where she said that when she wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of London she went to her country home in the Cotswolds, only a few hours away so that was our first short weekend break location. We spent our days filled with long forest hikes, stopping off for quaint country pub lunches and finding local gems to explore for our evening entertainment.

Our next stop was Warwickshire. When we were looking for places to stay the Wroxall lodge and spa was our instant favourite. The mansion has been standing since the 1800s, and I loved how it still had original features like the bell telephone system and the ornate fireplaces in each room. Around every country bend there was another cosy pub which were mostly dog and children friendly. We instantly felt like we were welcome and one of the locals. If you are staying in this area, for a great coffee spot try the Cowshed and for dinner you must secure a reservation at Robbie’s restaurant. On our last night, we had a seven course french taster menu which was simply out of this world and great value for money.

Including a weekend stop over in Bath last year and several trips to the North East under my belt, I can safely say my passport is staying put for the time being as there are still so many exciting areas I would love to explore on our green shores.

Until next time,

Take care

Keya x

Otherworldly Oman

Posted on by Keya

Good day to you my travel loving adventurers,

I cannot believe it has been so long since I last posted, but once again I have flown the proverbial nest and I’ve joined my partner in the Middle East in his new career opportunity which is incredibly exciting.

Within 24 hours of arriving in Qatar, we were en route to Oman for a short break. Considering I have never been to the UAE previously, it felt very jet set visiting two countries in short succession but Oman is truly breathtaking and definitely a must visit.

On our first day we hired a car for the duration of our stay (which we ended up being so grateful for in the end) and checked out the local mall for some lunch. We then headed to the port where we glimpsed lofty vessels moored in the harbour from around the world and with the incredible backdrop of mountains and ancient forts dotted all around us.

We then visited the popular souk where we were met with sense heightening smells of incense and spices in the air, mixed with visual displays of pure cashmere scarves, harem trousers and to my delight oodles and oodles of silver jewellery. I managed to find the most incredible pair of sterling silver handmade earrings which were priced on the weight of the metal not a tourist laden price – it was a lovely memento to take back with me.

On our second day we embarked on an incredible drive through the mountain ranges once again an hour and a half out of Muscat to visit Wadi Shab. After browsing the night before, must do things in Oman this tropical oasis was one of them and it certainly did not disappoint 😊 We arrived at the location and had to get a little boat to the opposite island where we had a tough 30-45 minute hike through unbelievable scenery to the fresh water lake in the depths of the mountains. We happily plunged into the freezing cold water and embarked on the series of lagoons, eventually finding ourselves in a cavern where we climbed a rope laden waterfall to yet another water wonderland. It was spectacular, a real pinch yourself moment.

During our trip we also visited the magnificent Grand Mosque where I was asked to cover my arms and head in respect of it’s religious significance. We laid our eyes on one of the largest chandeliers and woven carpets in the world. I just couldn’t believe the sheer size of that vast but intimate space.

Another must see if you get the chance and are able to get a reservation is to have dinner at the Al Bustan Palace hotel. This positively regal establishment is beautiful beyond words and I am so happy we got to experience the heartwarming local hospitality. Our table overlooked the ocean and you could hear the waves lapping the shore as we dined. Our appetites were gracefully satiated with tuna sashimi, steaks and king fish with the freshest vegetables and Parmesan dusted fries. It is making my mouth water now thinking about it.

We completed our short trip in Muscat by visiting a traditional Omani restaurant where we tried camel Biriani, shark soup and beef Tagine with fresh dates and apricots. What an unlikely but delicious combination I can assure you.

And then before we knew it, we were on our way back to Qatar and our mini break was complete but wow with so many amazing memories to take away with us. Oman it was short, but oh so sweet. It is hopefully not good bye but see you soon.

Until next time take care,

Keya x

There’s no place like home

Posted on by Keya

Good day to you my delightful darlings wherever you may be in the world,

I am writing this post today from my slouchy sofa back in Brisbane after spending the last blissful two and a half weeks back in my home town of London visiting my wonderful family and friends. 


With the impending realisation of my one year anniversary of moving to Australia approaching and being informed of some changes in events back home, I knew almost immediately that I wanted to book a trip back as soon as I could.

With leave authorisation approval in place and having spent some final quality time with friends and loved ones here, I packed my bags (albeit being prepared for any kind of weather – good ole England) and set off for the motherland. 

As cliché as it sounds and with numerous pep talks inwardly to “keep it together” upon coming through arrivals at Heathrow, I sill managed to sob uncontrollably when I fell into my dad’s arms as soon as I saw him. 

The first few days flew by in a flurry of catch up drinks in the city with some of my oldest girlfriends, dinner invitations with prior work colleagues and impromptu torture (in the good kind) sessions with my spinning instructor mentor/ bootcamp instructor friend – it was nothing short of spectacular. 


Also as my parents were both around, we spent wonderful, priceless days either browsing the stalls at Petticoat lane market (oh how I do love a bargain) or getting our culture on stalking the corridors at Kenwood House. FYI – for anyone visiting London for the first time, I would highly recommend taking the trip to Kenwood – it is a house like no other and the history alone of its heritage is mind blowing. 


I even frequented a gothic inspired village in North London with the houses dating back to the 1800’s, all with their own unique gargoyles and spires. The architecture was one to behold and I loved how each property was unique in its own way.


On my last weekend there, one of my best friends and I went to one of my all time favourite music festivals SW4 and after a one year hiatus it really did not disappoint. 


Sadly as it was such a short trip,  I did try to cram as much as I could into the fortnight at the expense of treating it as a holiday for myself too. Since being back in Oz however and obviously being biased as I’m a born and bred Londoner, I completely LOVE my city. 

From the thrill of just jumping on the tube to get to wherever you need to go, to walking through an area that you may have ventured into a million times and unearthing a quaint church or mews you had never seen before – it truly is the most exhilarating, amazing place I’ve been lucky enough to frequent so far in this world. No wonder so many people choose to make it their home. 

I truly believe that no matter where you decide to move to or visit in life, home is always where the heart is and I know for certain that my beloved London certainly holds a special place in mine. 


Until next time, take care

Keya x

Spectacular Sydney 

Posted on by Keya

Good evening my Southern Hemisphere socialites, 

Just over a week ago my brother touched down in Brisbane to visit me from London and after what has felt like a whirlwind few days I thought I would dedicate this post to our recent road trip to Sydney. 


We decided rather spur of the moment that this week we were going to go to Sydney so after organising a rental car on Tuesday we set off first thing the next morning on our mammoth journey. The roads were so quiet and the scenery en route was truly breathtaking. 

When we were about 200km outside of Sydney city we organised our accommodation for when we arrived which was to say the least interesting but in a great location to just put our head down for the night and freshen up. We awoke the next morning and set out early fueling up at a nearby cafe called the Grumpy Baker which made awesome coffee and even better homemade muesli with fresh fruit.
We fully immersed ourselves in the culture of the city taking in the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge before hopping onto one of the sight seeing buses to take in some more of the city and also visit Bondi beach which truly was breathtaking. 
We walked until our feet could not take us anymore and then retired to our room to shower and change before heading to a local Italian place in our area for some food and a cheeky night cap. 

The next morning we were up bright and early again to head to the Blue mountains. They truly did not disappoint and we made the most of the many strenuous hiking trails and adventuring before heading slightly further inland to visit the awe inspiring Jenolan Caves. We had a super tour guide show us around one of the many caves here  which was both intresting and mind boogling. A certain must do if you are in the area 😀


That evening we again freshened up before heading to a quirky pub in the town centre for dinner and a few drinks before bed. 

The following morning we were up bright and early again to hit the road for our nearly 12 hour drive home. I can definitely say although we had the best time, wow was it amazing to be back in my own bed and reunited with my love when we got home. 

I have already been reminiscing today about how much Sydney reminded me of New York with small dashes of London thrown into the mix. What an awesome city and trip, I would totally recommend a visit if you are ever in this part of the world. 

Wherever you plan to venture this year on your annual summer holiday, just remember if you leave the destination with knowledge of the particular culture and bundles of arty shots on your iPhones then you know you have truly experienced another city in this wonderful thing we call the world 🌎 

Until next time take care, Keya x