Connecting Routes: That Four Letter Word
DRC - GERMANY - COTE D'IVOIRE
Amidst the deeper dives into a destination, these pauses pay tribute to the threads that weave together the random beauty I’ve seen at specific spots into a larger and more linked landscape - highlighting tacit touchpoints together in a way that showcases the rich tapestry of Life’s flow.
Here’s to “Connecting Routes” ~ a space to spotlight a common theme in my travels that offers snapshots from one place to another, like the tantalizing tease of a tasting menu or a shortlist of your next dream vacation!
Top Three Places for That Four Letter Word
The mother of all expressions, we find ourselves drawn into it - especially in drama or the ‘real deal’, as a fleeting feeling or a passionate purposeful pose. Learnt and likely leaned on from receiving and reflecting it, the possible permutations in which it can be pertinent often outnumbers how and when it can be professed, let alone portrayed.
Hopefully, we’ve landed on the same four letter word ;) LOVE has influenced, infused and inspired us all. From what we think and try, wonder and write, pray and play and of course, what we visualize and voyage for. These highlights are first rooted in evolution, then showcase lovers before resting on what’s en vogue and equally vital: self love - the brilliant bouquet that only we can gift ourselves via ritual, reflection and room to bloom.
Democratic Republic of Congo: Limited by logistics, we turned our attention to the Bonobos (who share 98.7% of our genetic material). The creatures are known for the peaceful matriarch and their liberal use of sex to solve serious squabbles. From heartwarming connections and scintillating scenes, like a lover that lingers, Africa wouldn’t leave - and I dreaded the separation too.
Germany: Being out and about, holding hands and snuggling into each other, Frankfurt’s holiday market scene offers as many opportunities to feast your eyes on comfort food and craftsmanship as it does on people watching and memory making. The colourful collection of committed couples proclaiming their pacts, promises and prayers for a tomorrow together nudged my imagination to how partners shared and seized the day, feeling their feelz.
Côte d'Ivoire: Unbeknownst to many, the country houses a basilica that awakens architectural and artistic awe. Indeed, it’s a twin to know. Whether your jam is a surprisingly sophisticated spa, retail therapy at bustling markets, swinging with your sentiments seaside or existential escapades, surrender stepped closer as I leaned into self love. Who knew that the Ivory Coast would extend such soulful invitations?
Wall art that says it all. New Zealand. May we mirror the love that lights our lives manifold to others - and to ourselves (whether/however we mark V day),
