Author: Soraya

  • A Day Exploring Car-Free Murren

    A Day Exploring Car-Free Murren

    Seeing the light peer through the curtains, I eagerly pulled them open to reveal the Swiss Alps. The view overlooking Lake Thun and the village below from the chalet was breathtaking! The crisp morning air, the shimmering water below, and the towering peaks in the distance set the perfect scene, what…

  • A Scenic Adventure to Thun

    A Scenic Adventure to Thun

    Next up is a scenic adventure to Thun. On our way to Thun, we made a spontaneous stop at a park along the Thun River. It was nothing short of breathtaking. The view was spectacular, an enormous lake stretched before us, surrounded by the towering Bernese Alps. It felt like…

  • A Swiss Adventure

    A Swiss Adventure

    Waking up in the chalet that morning felt like stepping into a real life snow globe. Light snowflakes drifted lazily past the windows, coating the world outside in a soft, magical hush. The dogs, blissfully unaware of the day’s agenda, bounded through the untrodden snow at the base of the…

  • French Christmas Market Magic

    French Christmas Market Magic

    I’ve been living in Annecy for a while now, and it’s truly starting to feel familiar. I’ve discovered little shortcuts to my favorite places, making the city feel even more like home. Right now, I’m getting ready for a visit from my daughter, and as always, we’ve packed our agenda…

  • The Rhythms of Retirement in France

    The Rhythms of Retirement in France

    Living a retired life in France has been an experience both familiar and transformative. Having spent enough time here to settle into the rhythms of retirement in France,  I’ve realized that though the setting is different the experience of my days still carries threads of who I’ve always been. Routine…

  • Marriage Reflection and Change

    Today, I am setting aside my usual focus on travel to share something deeply personal, my marriage. While I have mentioned my two grown children in the past I haven’t spoken about my husband. This wasn’t an oversight but a deliberate choice. I needed time to find the right way…

  • The Adventure of Moving Day: From Southern Comfort to Alpine Bliss

    With a mix of excitement and a touch of wistfulness, departure day has arrived. The adventure of moving day: from southern comfort to alpine bliss was finally here. Saturday was here, and it was time to set off on our next adventure! It’s wild how much life you can pack…

  • Time to Leave for the Next Adventure. Goodbye, Menton!

    Time to Leave for the Next Adventure. Goodbye, Menton!

    Here it is, time to leave for the next adventure. It’s time to say goodbye, Menton after a wonderful month and half. How does time fly so quickly in a place where life moves at such a relaxed, laid back pace? They call Menton the “Pearl of France” and it…

  • Create a Signature Perfume – A Perfume Making Experience

    Having settled into cozy Airbnb, the clothes are unpacked, and le frigo (the fridge) is stocked with some of the essentials. My daughter and I set out to explore this charming coastal town, Menton, soaking up its beauty and character. Wandering through the streets we discovered adorable specialty shops, inviting…

  • Adjusting To French Culture – Local Culture

    I have been very excited to write about this topic, adjusting to French culture – local culture ! It’s such a rich and vibrant life. After having spent some time here, I will share my perspective. Also, I will touch upon what it’s like to navigate here with a dog(s),…