The best things in life are free, well the majority of them at least are. And today I wanted to count down fifteen of the most luxuriously simple things (in my humble opinion) that we have and quite often take for granted. Keep in mind though, it is winter over here in Australia so this list may be a little influenced by this.
15. Smile. Especially when it comes from a stranger or passerby. You never quite know what another person is feeling or batteling. A simple smile or kind hello in exchnage may just
14. That feeling of crisp fresh sheets
13. Those head massages you get when visiting your hairdresser. Complete and utter bliss.
12. Music.
11. kisses. Soft, hard, passionate kind. Any kind really. Enough said.
10. flowers. pretty little buggers they are. have you ever actually looked closely at one? Like really looked deep into their beings. they more than one dementional, there are so many precious things that make it up.
9. clouds. drifting above gossamer clouds. how fluffy they are, cotton candy like, you just want to dive right in on Aladdins magic carpet and whip them into soft serve peaks.
8. sunrises and sunsets. gosh there is something undeniably beautiful about watching the sun make it's descent and ascent to and from the horizon. Michaela from Michalea Jean said it perfectly. No matter where you are in the world, this is always a constant. The sun looks the same no matter where you are.
7. The night sky. The stars, how infinite it is and how miniscule we all are in the grand scheme of things.
6. Puppy cuddles. Or cuddles from any kind of species really (except from spiders and gross crawly things. Frankly, they can keep their love to themselves). Nothing beats those fuzzy feelings you get when those eyes look deep into yours.
5. Books. Possibly a controversial one, I know a few people who don't see the value in them. Seemingly their loss. some people may take a while to warm up to them. I know I did growing up. I loved them until someone pointed out how supposedly uncool they were so I stopped for a bit. but were on good terms now, I even apsire to have several pulished some day. theres something for everybody, they entertain,
4. Chocolate. Because, Nutella. Enough said.
3. Thunder and lightening. the way a single bolt effortlessly lights up the night sky, if only for a second. those flashes of light in the sky and the rumble that follows. it's like a dance of domination, mother nature asserting herself as top of the food chain, reminding us who really is boss in these parts.
2. Travel. those who do noy travel only read the first page. if you've ever travelled then you'll understand this and the importance of visiting far away places. not just the shiny, tourist hot spots but places less travelled.
1. Sleeping in. Especially on a chilly morning. When you're all snug as a bug and deliciously toasty between those sheets. Add a speckling of rain pattering away on the window pain and that right there is heaven. For the past year I've been suffering chronic back pain that loves to rear its ugly head at around 4am. By 6am the pain gets too intense to remain laying down.
Anyone want to add anything else to this list?
15. Smile. Especially when it comes from a stranger or passerby. You never quite know what another person is feeling or batteling. A simple smile or kind hello in exchnage may just
14. That feeling of crisp fresh sheets
13. Those head massages you get when visiting your hairdresser. Complete and utter bliss.
12. Music.
11. kisses. Soft, hard, passionate kind. Any kind really. Enough said.
10. flowers. pretty little buggers they are. have you ever actually looked closely at one? Like really looked deep into their beings. they more than one dementional, there are so many precious things that make it up.
9. clouds. drifting above gossamer clouds. how fluffy they are, cotton candy like, you just want to dive right in on Aladdins magic carpet and whip them into soft serve peaks.
8. sunrises and sunsets. gosh there is something undeniably beautiful about watching the sun make it's descent and ascent to and from the horizon. Michaela from Michalea Jean said it perfectly. No matter where you are in the world, this is always a constant. The sun looks the same no matter where you are.
7. The night sky. The stars, how infinite it is and how miniscule we all are in the grand scheme of things.
6. Puppy cuddles. Or cuddles from any kind of species really (except from spiders and gross crawly things. Frankly, they can keep their love to themselves). Nothing beats those fuzzy feelings you get when those eyes look deep into yours.
5. Books. Possibly a controversial one, I know a few people who don't see the value in them. Seemingly their loss. some people may take a while to warm up to them. I know I did growing up. I loved them until someone pointed out how supposedly uncool they were so I stopped for a bit. but were on good terms now, I even apsire to have several pulished some day. theres something for everybody, they entertain,
4. Chocolate. Because, Nutella. Enough said.
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3. Thunder and lightening. the way a single bolt effortlessly lights up the night sky, if only for a second. those flashes of light in the sky and the rumble that follows. it's like a dance of domination, mother nature asserting herself as top of the food chain, reminding us who really is boss in these parts.
2. Travel. those who do noy travel only read the first page. if you've ever travelled then you'll understand this and the importance of visiting far away places. not just the shiny, tourist hot spots but places less travelled.
1. Sleeping in. Especially on a chilly morning. When you're all snug as a bug and deliciously toasty between those sheets. Add a speckling of rain pattering away on the window pain and that right there is heaven. For the past year I've been suffering chronic back pain that loves to rear its ugly head at around 4am. By 6am the pain gets too intense to remain laying down.
Anyone want to add anything else to this list?
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Braga was a town which unexpectedly surprised and delighted at every single turn. Truly a most unexpected discovery teeming with opulent architecture and flair. Most sadly crumbling structures with magnetic facades remaining. It was so much more than a bustling mini metropololis of monotoned tiled apartment complexes I'd been so accustomed to seeing upon the outskirts of town. Outskirts that we mainly skimmed past on our way to other points of interest, away from the town.
The Rua Dos Arcos. It took us some time, wandering and a few conversations with the locals attempting to locate this place. A place only hours prior did we learn about after hearing a recanted tale about my late grandfather. I had suspected such a place was coined only by himself and it turns out such suspicions were correct. Not its actual name but a name my grandfather coined for this place. A place that left quite the impression on him, perhaps creativly at that. In this tale it told how enamoured he become with this stretch of road after a mission to a nearby church to collect a bell for their village church. He was that enamoured every time he found himself going to or through the town he insisted on passing through. When I first heard this story I wondered if this was a place he drew inspiration from. And after setting eyes on such a site I myself no longer have any doubt on such questions.
Barcelos Portugal, a quiet and charming town famous for an iconic and decorative cockerel. One in which its originals and tale plays out quite the novella. This wasn't the first stop during my time in Portugal but for me it was the most memorable. It was a day of great laughter and much excitement.
We came, we conquered and we saw a surprising amount of oversized cockerels. And one bazaar breastfeeding horned demon thing.
Unless your Australian or English, looking at these photos and all those weirdly resplendent chickens you're immediatly going to associate them with Nandos and you'd be right to do so. This is the town that inspires it's very emblem slash logo slash mascot.
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// now playing: 24/7 - the neighbourhood
The dawn of a New Year hold such promise for us all. We're all riding that wave of actualising change, teeming with motivation and ambition. Why is it that such positive forces begin to wane within the first few weeks (and for some unfortunate few, the coming days of a New Year)? How can one contiinue with such determination so that it becomes perpetual and everlasting.
Welcome twenty-eighteen. May you be kind and a blessing to us all
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The festive season has a tendency to bring out the good and bad in all of us. Those feelings of benevolence become amplified once the clock ticks over into December. Scenes of goodwill and charity develop into circadian occurrences, as opposed to blue moon incidents. Seemingly with such altruism, it also sees our frustration and stress levels elevated. Ugly scenes like road rage run rife. And we seem to attract those inconveniently oblivious to anyone but themselves. Through such annoyances it is vital we remember that such occurrences in reality are an oddity. And at the end of the day we all have burdens to bear. Rather than focusing on that jerk who cut in line, put more energy into love and just let it go. In truth, not everyone is blessed to be celebrating this time of year surrounded by love and laughter. They don't have the luxury of perusing stores for gifts or creating delectable Christmas lunch menus. Some people find themselves alone this time of year and some will be far from home. It's imperative to remember just how blessed you are and that any small act of kindness can go a long way.
But it's also crucial to carry such behaviours well into the New Year too. Christmas is indeed a time that sees much merriment and compassion, but these are all attitudes that should be practiced throughout the year and not just exclusively during the month of December. Especially during a time where the world feels erratic and those in power unhinged. Chose love over hate and empathy over intolerance. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a most happiest of Holidays. Whatever and wherever you find yourself, I hope it is brimming with affection and mirth.
Eat, drink and be merry always.
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The road to this Monastery was confining and very much perplexing, with only two obscured signs along the way to point us in the right direction. Traveling at only a snails pace through dense villages and labyrinth like streets. Streets that were indescribably narrow with some points requiring vehicle mirrors to be tucked in for safer passage. Such a setting is actually rather common in these parts, when one traverses off the main roads and highways that is. It is a most charming sight, beautifully foreign and authentically Portuguese. Something most travellers fail to experience when opting to remain within larger, more developed cities and towns.
While the drive was relentlessly disorientating, and with spots of internet inactivity causing mass panic and confusion, this trip was very much worthwhile. Even though it had you constantly questioning if such a place could even exist amongst such a dense sprawl of residences. But that horizon tightly guarded by towering stone facades, blackberry bushes and the curious suntanned faces makes for a most dramatic climax. Upon reaching the destination that is. As if out if thin air, a sprawling prairie emerges followed by a grandiose and imposing architectural structure.
The drive towards this estate is equally as magnificent as what lays ahead. A long stretch of gravel that warmly beckons you forward and all against a field of sunburnt lawn. Approaching closer, there is no denying it's palatial standing - albeit a humble one. That is until you physically cross the threshold at the Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes. With an interior that is rich in master craftsmanship and antiquities. And accompanying grounds lush with flora and greenery, like the journey here, the facade of this Monastery sneakily obscures what lays beyond its walls.
(On a side note the image above caught my curiosity whilst in the editing stages. The window to the far right housing a most unexpected and eerie figure...)
Perhaps such sensations could be connected to the mysterious apparition from above?
There is no denying the resplendence and grace that exudes this church. Originally erected in place of an Ancient Roman church back in 1628, adopting Late Renaissance architecture and formed in a traditional Latin cross shape. However its white washed walls in company with gold filigree and carvings and the rich mahogany features, coalescing with slight marble embellishments depict strong influences of Baroque and Rococo touches through the years. This is a site rich in religious artwork and craftsmanship, and it's hard not to spend the afternoon away simply gazing in awe. Especially when it comes to the alter and the upper choir which contains a plethora of works to survey. Which also includes an grand wooden bookstand featuring a centuries old liturgical book.
The Monastery itself dates back to the 6th Century. And its interiors and grounds respectfully pay homage to opulence and craftsmanship expected from such times. While majority of this Monastery remains vacant and sparse, there are still countless rooms, points of interest and antique pieces to admire. Pieces like apothecary jars, Azulejos, carver chairs and interior features are generous throughout. And unlike the interiors at the Paco Dos Duques, there is a strong sense of continuity and identity here.
I can not stress just how sizeable this entire Monastery is. Nor how freely accessible, leaving one with countless hallways and rooms to venture. So I'd highly recommend setting aside an entire day for your visit. There is a small fee for entry but it is well worth it. And located adjacent to the entry, the cemetery cloister (featured in images 4 and 5) is a most darling sight. Stately Tuscan style columns that frame a courtyard abundant in roses to one side, and vibrant Azulejo tiles narrating tales with illustrations on the other. Of course the wooden coiffured ceilings was also rather mesmerising and highly covetable.
There is also glimpses into life back in the 17th Century with the original lavatories remaining intact. Something which will bring on either (or both) a fit of giggles or bewilderment at the gargantuan plummet to the pit below. And while the interiors of this Monastery are undeniably fascinating, so are the gardens. Arches of fanciful grape vines accompanying stonework and hedging reminiscent of the gardens at Casa De Mateus. And a wealth of water features and sprays of efflorescence that can be found within its courtyards. One of which housing housing a bizarre sculpture of a cockerel (image 23). St John's Garden (image 21 and 22) is also worth mentioning. An octagonal design featuring an exquisitely carved fountain, which was once painted and gilded, is a most serene and tranquil scene. As well as being fancifully photogenic framed by it's delicate pink dividing walkway.
Having arrived here late in the afternoon we weren't able to fully experience this estate. While the interiors remained throughly explored, including many ominous nooks found inside various guest sleeping quarters, the grounds however were merely touched upon. Being as extensive as the interiors it just was not a possibility for us that day. So we merely touched upon what these resplendent grounds had to offer. Featuring acres upon acres of lavish landscaping and working fields, one could spend a good portion of their day simply admiring the flanking Hydrangeas over exploring the pathway before you. We may or may not have been guilty of this ourselves.
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So how can one overcome such adversity? It's actually more straightforward than it seems when you implement some smart changes to your usual routine. The key is organisation. To a certain extent. As is having a fair understanding of your destination. Things such as climate and local customs will assist you greatly. For example tropical adventures to places like the Maldives will no doubt call for swimwear or bohemian style rompers. So leave the biker jackets at home and save them for notoriously cooler parts of the world like San Francisco.
I've listed a few of my own tried and tested methods for packing a suitcase. Which will hopefully help you avoid emptying the entire contents of your wardrobe into one bag (or do so comfortably).
STICK TO BASICS
When it comes to deciding what to bring with you, basics are always a good idea. For me they are essential because of their low maintenance appeal and most importantly, easy to pair. This type of clothing will always be complimentary and effortless to style again and again. And mixing and matching will leave you with a vaster number of options, easily carrying you into the week. Of course it doesn't hurt to include one or two statement print pieces into the mix. You know for spontaneous nights out or impromptu adventures. You can also pair these with your basics. But remember not to go overboard on these. Because chances are you'll end up finding irresistible unique beauties at your destination and need to bring them home with you.
MERMAID IN TRAINING
Don't forget your swimsuit. That is if you're a notorious aqua-bunny. Because it's more than likely you'll sniff out a heated hotel pool to frolic in. Otherwise leave it out. Just don't forget to bring a wet bag and laundry bag because the last thing on your mind is doing needless laundry. These bags can really save your bacon. They also come in handy for packing your delicates and unmentionables. Another hack for packing these is to layer your bras on top of one another and fold them over to create a secure shell, then stuff the insides with your underwear or socks. This will further protect their integrity and avoid them getting crushed. Shop laundry needs here or a selection of swimwear if you find yourself heading towards cerulean waters sometime soon.
CHECK IT TWICE
Checklists can truly be a godsend, especially if you're forgetful or prone to poor time management. This will also encourage you to narrow down unnecessary gadgets and clothing while also ensuring you don't forget something crucial, like your phone charger. These days there are countless apps specialising in to-do lists available for download. I personally prefer the Wunderlist app and usually separate my checklist into categories like Tech, Beauty, Clothing, Shoes and Accessories. Of course you could do it the "old fashioned" way and handwrite your own list. Either one will get the job done.
MINI ME
Travel minis really do make a difference in terms of space. Their petite stature leaves more room for other things while ensuring your beauty routine remains undisrupted. While they can be on the pricier side to acquire specific minis, you can also purchase empty travel bottles. Just load them up with your shampoo, micellar water or cleanser and you're good to go. I invested in the NARS Orgasm, Laguna duo and used these travel bottles for my last trip which saved me from carting unnecessary large bottles and compacts. Just don't forget to place aerosols and liquids into a waterproof or zip lock bag for safe keeping. I never use to employ this before, but did so on my last trip to Portugal. And thankfully so since I was met with an unfortunate incident with my self tanner. It pays to be safe than sorry.
// Shop ideal travel minis options.
TO ROLL OR NOT TO ROLL?
This is a rather controversial topic with both sides making equally valid points. Rolling clothing will seemingly leave you with more valuable packing real estate but the act of folding your clothing will help to retain its shape and protect the garment overall. Especially when it comes to more delicate fabrics such as cotton or silks which are prone to creasing. Personally I prefer to utilize both methods. And when it comes down to rolling your clothing this works best with packing cubes (shop packing cubes and and other travel accompaniments at the end of this post) implemented as they will allow you to squeeze as much as physically possible while remaining structured and uniformed in your luggage.
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To say I was blown away was an understatement. For one, such grandeur literally lay mere steps away from me unexplored. And secondly that such a site existed in one of my favorite Portuguese towns Vila Real.
How had such grandeur escaped me for so long?
Better late then never I suppose.
Entry into the palace grounds are free, however to peruse the interiors a tour guide is needed. Though I'm not one for tours, this is one I highly recommend. The interiors of this Palace are as equally palatial as the outer. Laden with yesteryear and historic relics, I don’t think I’ve ever been quite so taken aback by how grandiose and extensive this collection of antiquities is.
As some parts remain as a private residence, certain sections are closed to the public. Regardless what remains is more than satisfactory with nearly have of the interiors free to be explored. My favorite room was the library. Another luxurious but intimate room with floor to ceiling shelving housing countless reading material and artwork. Numerous first editions, God knows dating back to when. Books brimming with handwritten tales, mostly on the history of Portugal. Their size about as ostentatious as the estate, some as large as an A3 paper. All hand sewn and bound in leather, their bindings worn with wear, time and narratives. How I wanted to explore each and every single title and I never, ever leave. And how I envied this family for such a covetable collection keepsakes.
While the interiors are memorable and highly desirable, the grounds also hold their own unique charms. Thoroughly spotted with fanciful hedging alongside an abundance of grape vines. You could spend a good part of your day here wandering delightfully aimlessly. From filigree type hedging and stonework fountains to a mammoth shallow lake boarded by pine trees and blooms. The entire setting feels akin to an exotic Austen novel, architecture mingling with flora easily transporting one to yesteryear.
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