Wherever I go, so does my journal, recording my utmost experiences
and precious moments. My journals are my most precious souvenirs,
enabling me to reflect upon over many years to come.
Once we arrived at Hotel Mercure La Défense 5, we only had 45 minutes to freshen up and change before boarding our coach for our first night of sightseeing in the heart of Paris.
We travelled along the impressive Champs Elysées, apparently the second most expensive shopping boulevard in the world (first being Fifth Avenue) before the legendary Arc de Triomphe came into view.
My goodness, I only sighted these prominent landmarks in books and on postcards.
"Now, I am actually in the postcard".
Merging into one of the busiest roundabouts in the world, where marked lanes are clearly unheard of, certainly is an unforgettable hair-raising experience.
Apparently, the objective is to avoid eye contact and push your way in. Truly hate to think "what if there was an accident?"
Absolutely total chaos - you really need to experience it to believe it!
Our driver Fabio, dropped us off - enabling us to wander and absorb the alive and enticing French capital.
On entering the Cathedral Notre Dame meaning “Our Lady” in French, a mass was in progress, so we silently drifted through, observing the celestial beauty of this glorious 14th century gothic structure.
From here, my partner Dean and I walked further along to a cafe strip and met up with one of the lovely Canadian couples on our tour. Together we came across a trendy little brassiere where the four of us enthusiastically chatted over a light meal.
My quiche lorraine (pictured) was delicious... so light and fluffy with succulent pieces of ham, served with crisp salad and a glass of chardonnay.
Our handsome waiter was extremely friendly and cooperative, speaking a little English which sort of complimented my attempt in speaking French. His service was superb and we tipped him generously.
Further on, having met up with the rest of the group, we followed our guide, Jelle a short way to board our boat, darkness had settled as we commenced our cruise along the river Seine.
By night Paris is transformed into a spellbinding fascinating city of striking illuminations.
Romance was in the air and I was intuitively consumed with love, taking in the magnificent architecture of the neighbouring buildings.
Everything was ignited under the balmy night skies.
The Eiffel Tower looked so outstanding and grandiose, sparkling in green and gold to commemorate the 2007 Rugby World Cup Final.
Once we were virtually under this magnificent land mark, I instinctively welled up up through anticipation and happiness as I beheld Dean's eyes. I still couldn't believe I was really here, in Paris!
For me, this was a dream come true.
Following our enlivening cruise we took pleasure in a scenic drive throughout the enchanting golden city of lights before retiring to our comfortable hotel and dream of Paris.
Sistene Chapel - Sunday 30th September 2007
My heart was pounding in anticipation as we walked through the doors of one of the most famous places in the world – the Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel) where I drowned in heavenliness and goose bumps creeped all over my skin.
Staring above, I tried to envision the four years of painstaking labour the great man, Michelangelo endured between 1508 and 1512. His outstanding knowledge in human anatomy is apparent in his meticulous saintly frescoes covering the entire ceiling.
Twenty years later at the age of sixty, Michelangelo was summoned back to the chapel to paint the renowned ‘Last Judgement’ on the wall behind the altar.
A depiction of the second coming of Christ, it shows Jesus as the judge with the Virgin Mary next to him, surrounded by saints and apostles. Above him, the celestial world of angels, then below to his right are those ascending to heaven and below to his left are those being hauled to hell.
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This magnificent fresco took Michelangelo eight years to complete
and was unveiled in 1541. |
Burano Island - 2nd Oct 2007
Early one afternoon, a group of us opted to embark on a taxi boat from St Mark’s square in Venice and travel to Burano Island.
Immediately we arrived, I was struck and in awe of the sheer prettiness of the place.
Quaint little houses, painted in vibrant colours, stood in a row neat as a pin, even the fishing boats are equally as colourful and everything presented so impeccably clean and orderly.
Rather interesting to learn that to paint your house, you must obtain notice from the government for allocated shades permitted for that particular lot.
Every house shall always remain the colour it was originally painted.
When considering buying a home on Burano Island, you would certainly want to choose a colour that you can live with... I decided on a pink house!
Window boxes and pots displaying a show of geraniums and washing suspended outside the top windows all made for a delightful postcard image.
Taking That Forward Step
I know I will never achieve anything if I don't pursue it and if I push through life without asking questions, I will always end up with "no" answers.
I wouldn't like to think of myself stuck in the same place only because I was too afraid to take that forward step, for there really is a lot to learn and experience in this wonderful world I live in.
Oh, these colourful, pristine islands of Greece
Consuming me with contentment and peace
Sun of Apollo, shining and warm
On a rickety jetty - so tired and worn.
Amid the weathered fishing boats
Earnestly determined to stay afloat.
I breathe and taste the salty air
Relishing simplicity of a life so fair.
Julie Annette
Travelling Solo
When travelling alone, my soul is awakened, I tend to listen with my heart and become more spontaneous.
Additionally, my knowledge is furthermore enriched through experiencing diverse cultures and traditions. I’m attentive, not only to others but also to my inner self.
Seeing the beauty and feeling the love in everything and everyone is deeply fulfilling.
I am blessed with the freedom and ability to roam wherever I please, in knowing I always have a comfortable home to return to.
Engaging with people from all walks of life, is my passion. Even when there is a language barrier, one broad, open smile speaks a thousand words.
I believe wholeheartedly in Karma… whatever you bestow to others, you'll surely receive gratification in return.
All That's Left:
