09 June 2025

There’s something timeless about Provence — where every village looks like it belongs in a Cézanne painting and every meal feels like a long, sun-drenched memory in the making. We spent a week in a stone villa just outside Les Baux-de-Provence, one of the region’s most beautiful hilltop towns. With our two kids in tow, we made gentle day trips, sampled croissants daily, and quickly fell into the rhythm of Provençal life — slow, simple, and sun-kissed. Here’s how our week unfolded. Where We Stayed Our home for the week was a rustic-luxe villa tucked into the olive groves, with shutters that opened to views of rolling lavender fields and limestone hills. Just a 10-minute drive from Les Baux-de-Provence, it had a pool, an outdoor kitchen, and enough space for barefoot mornings and long family dinners under the stars. Day 1 – Arrival & Settling In We arrived in the afternoon after a scenic drive from Marseille airport. The kids ran straight to the pool while we unpacked and stocked the kitchen with local cheese, fruit, and a bottle of rosé from a roadside vineyard. That evening, we took a quick trip up to Les Baux — cobblestone lanes, cliffside views, and the scent of wild herbs in the air. Dinner was at a simple bistro with the kind of view that makes you put your phone down and just stare. Day 2 – Les Baux & Carrières de Lumières After croissants and cherries on the terrace, we spent the morning exploring Château des Baux, where the kids loved climbing old catapults and running through the medieval ruins. In the afternoon, we visited the incredible Carrières de Lumières, a massive art installation in a former quarry. This season’s show was devoted to the pharaohs of Egypt, and watching the temples and their secrets come alive across stone walls was a highlight for all of us — even the little ones stood still, spellbound. We ended the day with homemade pasta, poolside, as the sun dipped behind the Alpilles. Day 3 – St-Rémy-de-Provence & a Market Morning We set off early for St-Rémy, just 25 minutes away, to catch the weekly Wednesday market. Picture overflowing baskets of figs, lavender sachets, olive oil, and cheerful stallholders handing out slices of saucisson. We let the kids pick pastries while we browsed linens and pottery. After lunch under plane trees in the town square, we stopped at Saint-Paul de Mausole, the former asylum where Van Gogh lived and painted his most iconic works. Quiet, moving, and full of sunflowers. Back at the villa, we swam, napped, and had a casual dinner of market finds: tomatoes, tapenade, crusty bread, and rosé. Day 4 – Arles & Roman Wonders A bit of history on day four with a day trip to Arles. The Roman amphitheatre captivated the kids, while the narrow streets and painterly corners were a dream to wander. We followed a Van Gogh walking trail, peeking into bookshops and galleries along the way. Lunch was crepes and ice cream near the Rhône. On the drive home, we stopped for a wine tasting (grape juice for the kids!) and picked up a few bottles to bring back. Day 5 – A Lazy Villa Day By midweek, we were all craving a slow day — no plans, no driving. We read by the pool, played board games, and the kids helped pick wild herbs from the garden. My husband and I took turns sneaking naps in the hammock. In the late afternoon, we lit the outdoor pizza oven and made dinner together — simple toppings, lots of laughs, and a Provençal sunset as the perfect backdrop. Day 6 – Avignon & the Pont du Gard We took a longer drive to Avignon, where the Palais des Papes impressed all of us with its towering halls and secret passageways. The kids loved the medieval history scavenger hunt (thank you, audio guide!). Later, we stopped at the Pont du Gard — a Roman aqueduct and World Heritage site where we picnicked by the river and skipped stones. It’s the kind of place that makes ancient history feel alive and accessible for everyone. Day 7 – Lavender Fields & Saying Goodbye On our final day, we made a short morning trip to Eygalières, a tiny village with quiet charm and postcard views. We stopped at a lavender farm nearby and filled the car with its scent for the ride home. Back at the villa, we packed slowly, swam one last time, and sat out late into the evening — a soft breeze, the hum of cicadas, and one more toast to Provence. Final Thoughts Provence isn't about ticking off sights — it's about how it feels to be there. The stillness of the olive trees, the rhythm of the markets, the way kids slow down in the sun and remember how to play. If you're looking for a holiday that blends beauty, ease, and a little bit of magic, a villa stay in Les Baux-de-Provence is just about perfect. We'll be back for sure.

09 June 2025

Salalah is a place that surprises you — not just with its waterfalls and rolling green hills, but with how deeply it invites you to slow down. We visited in early June, just before the full arrival of the Khareef season (July to August), when monsoon rains transform Oman’s Dhofar region into a tropical oasis. Even then, the signs of what was coming — low clouds, fresh air, and bursts of green — were already showing. Travelling from Dubai with my husband and our two kids, we were looking for a mix of adventure and rest. Salalah gave us both in perfect balance. Our home for the trip? The peaceful, palm-lined Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah — a dream for families looking for space, comfort, and thoughtful service. Day 1 – Arrival & Lagoon Serenity Check-in & First Impressions Our short flight from Dubai made the journey easy — and as soon as we landed, the cool breeze and lush scenery felt like stepping into a different world. The kids stared wide-eyed at the green hills and grazing camels as we made our way to the resort. Anantara Al Baleed was the ideal base for a family trip. We checked into a spacious lagoon-view villa that gave us privacy and room to unwind. The kids were immediately drawn to the infinity pool and beach, while we were just grateful to finally unplug. The blend of calm and comfort set the tone for the entire stay. Dinner: Mekong at Sunset That evening, we dined at Mekong, the resort’s Asian restaurant, which sits right over the lagoon. The kids were given colouring sets and a tailored menu (the sweet and sour chicken was a hit), while we shared Thai curries and fresh spring rolls under swaying palms. Watching the sun set over the water as a family, with good food and relaxed smiles all around, was the kind of moment you travel for. Day 2 – Forts, Waterfalls & Blowholes Exploring Dhofar by Car After breakfast, we picked up a rental car (which the resort kindly arranged for us) and hit the road. Our first stop was Taqah Fort, a small but charming historical site where the kids could climb towers and imagine life in ancient Oman. From there, we drove to Wadi Darbat — and wow. Even in June, the valley was green and alive. We rented a paddle boat and drifted through the lake, surrounded by foggy hills and curious camels grazing nearby. It was peaceful and wild all at once. A Quirky Stop & Local Flavours Next, we stopped at the famous Gravity Point, where the car appeared to roll uphill on its own. The kids were thrilled — it felt like magic. For lunch, we headed to Ayal Alfareej, a casual local spot that served one of our favourite meals of the trip. We had shuwa — slow-roasted lamb cooked underground — served with spiced rice and fresh salads. Simple, authentic, and incredibly good. Blowholes at Marneef We ended the afternoon at Mughsail Beach, where the Marneef blowholes were putting on a show. The kids laughed every time a wave shot water into the air with a roar, and we stayed there until the light softened and the cliffs began to glow. Dinner back at the resort was low-key — just a relaxed room service meal with our feet up. Day 3 – Slow Living by the Sea Resort Adventures On our last day, we chose to stay close and enjoy everything the resort had to offer. After a slow breakfast at Sakalan, the kids joined a kids' club treasure hunt while my husband and I treated ourselves to a frankincense ritual at the spa — warm oils, calming scents, and pure relaxation. Later, we all tried stand-up paddleboarding on the lagoon. It was the perfect activity: safe, calm, and fun for everyone. The kids loved spotting herons and little fish in the water, and we loved watching them disconnect from screens and connect with nature. Dinner: Seafood Grill by the Beach We wrapped up our stay with Seafood Grill Night by the pool — fresh lobster and grilled prawns on the plate, and waves gently rolling in just metres away. It felt like a farewell toast to a place that had welcomed us so warmly. Final Thoughts Salalah gave us a chance to slow down as a family, explore the unexpected, and make memories that felt rooted in both adventure and ease. If you're thinking about where to travel next with kids — especially between July and August, when the Khareef season is in full swing — this misty, magical part of Oman is absolutely worth the journey

25 May 2025

Seoul is a city that invites you to walk — through history, across modern skylines, into quiet alleys and vibrant streets. Over four immersive days, I explored the city almost entirely on foot, staying at the beautifully located Le Méridien Myeongdong, a luxury base that was not only central to everything but also just steps away from Cheonggyecheon Stream — ideal for scenic morning runs or quiet evening strolls. Day 1 – Village Vibes & a Towering Sunset Check-in & Exploring Central Seoul After checking into Le Méridien Myeongdong, I laced up my sneakers and set out to explore. First stop: Ikseondong Hanok Village, a creative neighborhood where traditional architecture meets hip cafés and indie shops. From there, I followed the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful urban waterway that flows just a block from the hotel — a local favorite for joggers and walkers alike. I continued on to the buzzing streets of Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s busiest shopping areas, alive with skincare shops, street food stalls, and music pouring out of every storefront. Sunset Hike to N Seoul Tower By late afternoon, I made my way to Namsan Park and began the hour-long hike up to N Seoul Tower. It’s a steep but manageable climb through forested trails, and the reward is breathtaking — a full panorama of the city glowing in the golden hour. The tower stays open late, so it’s perfect for lingering after sunset. Dinner: Korean BBQ at Kukbingwan I ended the night with dinner at Kukbingwan, a classic Korean BBQ joint where the meats are rich, the side dishes are endless, and the post-hike hunger is fully satisfied. Day 2 – Palaces, Art, and Fortress Views Gyeongbokgung Palace & GROUND Seesaw The day began at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where I caught the changing of the guard ceremony — a colorful and choreographed event steeped in history. After exploring the palace grounds, I walked to GROUND Seesaw, a minimalist contemporary gallery nearby. I was lucky enough to visit during the Werner Bronkhorst exhibition — a striking display of raw, modern works that challenged and captivated me. The contrast between ancient tradition and contemporary art in the same morning was exactly the kind of cultural duality that makes Seoul so special. Hanok Village & Lunch at Onion Anguk Next, I wandered through Bukchon Hanok Village, taking in the quiet beauty of traditional Korean homes nestled among hills. I stopped at Onion Anguk, a beautifully restored hanok turned café, where I had lunch and one of the best pastries of the trip. Bugaksan Fortress Wall Hike In the afternoon, I took a short taxi ride to Changuimun Gate to begin the Bugaksan Trail, a historic hike along the Seoul Fortress Wall. You’ll need your passport for entry, but the ~2-hour walk offers dramatic views, cool mountain breezes, and a chance to see a different side of the city. K-Star Road & Starfield COEX Mall I closed out the day with a visit to K-Star Road in Gangnam — filled with playful pop culture tributes — then wandered through Starfield COEX Mall, home to high-end boutiques and the iconic Starfield Library. Dinner: Fried Chicken & Beer Dinner was delightfully laid back: crispy Korean fried chicken and an ice-cold beer at a casual local spot. No better way to recover from a double-hike day. Day 3 – A Journey to the Border DMZ Tour This was the most structured day of the trip, but also one of the most powerful. I was picked up early for a guided DMZ tour, which included visits to the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the DMZ Exhibition Hall. Seeing the division between North and South Korea up close was sobering and surreal — a must-do experience that offers deep perspective on the country’s past and present. Dinner with a View: The Griffin Bar Back in Seoul by late afternoon, I got ready for a memorable final dinner at The Griffin Bar at JW Marriott Dongdaemun. Set on a rooftop with sweeping views of the city skyline, this cocktail bar was the perfect place to toast the trip and reflect on everything I’d seen, tasted, and walked through.