TRAVELS - AMA RUNWAY

OSLO – The stopover

The economic stopover A paragem económica (Em Português AQUI) We couldn’t leave the old continent without taking advantage of the perks of European low-cost travel. Well, to secure an affordable trip for the desired dates, we had two options with crazy layovers. We opted for an independent layover, spending a night in Oslo, which would give us more time for final preparations. We left at dawn, heading to the cold city. A few hours of work from the airport. A 10-minute transfer to the hotel that costs more than the flight from London to Oslo. After demagnetising two room cards and deactivating an elevator, nothing beats a hot shower and a comfortable bed to crash in. THE BEST PART – THE BREAKFAST Well-deserved rest, and in the morning, one of the best breakfasts of my life—but only 15 minutes to enjoy it. Unfair! Why was I so lazy to get up? Why didn’t anyone warn me that such a feast was waiting for me? The truth is, I didn’t expect such a varied and delicious hotel breakfast. Perfectly cooked eggs in multiple styles, bread, croissants, cheeses and cold cuts, fruit, salmon, etc. I hate wasting anything and want to try almost everything. But I couldn’t. If anyone stays at the SCANDIC OSLO AIRPORT and the chef is the same, please wake up early and enjoy what I couldn’t! We left for the airport with time to spare, only to discover that the line for LA was huge and the check-in time was absurd. THE COOL GROUP Out of nowhere, a lady asked if I was part of the group. What group? The group of tired people waiting for a flight? The group of people who are exhausted, half-dizzy, and lost in time zones, mentally calculating everything that will be needed or possibly forgotten? Turns out, the lady had only seen my protective jacket and thought I was part of the group she was looking for—a group of crazy adults on an organised Harley motorbike trip through California. I wasn’t even prepared for my own adventure yet, and I was already being identified as part of the community. Suddenly, I was surrounded by motorcycle fanatics, who out of nowhere started talking about engines, seats, and destinations with me just because I was wearing an Alpine jacket. Another proof that appearances deceive, and there I was, immersed in an unlikely environment. Doubts began to arise. Was I in the right place? They talked about the good things and the difficulties—the challenge of hitchhiking, the hardness of the seat, the wind, the heat, etc. The more I listened, the more doubts crept in. A feeling of regret started to bubble up, even though I saw them all excited for their adventure. I felt out of place, like the odd one out. Since I was the oddball, I became the court jester, someone to chat with to pass the time and distract from the long wait. Until a kind soul realised that at this pace, we’d all miss the flight, and they decided to open more check-in counters and speed up the process, creating special lanes so we could rush to catch the plane, which was almost leaving empty. Yes, this happened in organised Europe, in a punctual and efficient Nordic country. The rush was such that, of course, I ended up losing something. The thing I always lose, but this time I lost both: my gloves! Brand new, with tags, with a guarantee, with protection. The most expensive gloves I’ve ever had, and I never even got to use them. CELEBRITY MIRAGE Before boarding, a figure caught my attention because of how different he looked. A tall guy with style passed by like a celebrity, and for a moment, he seemed like Harry Styles. If he had taken off his sunglasses, maybe I could have confirmed I was wrong, but everything about him looked like Harry. But I’m terrible at recognising celebrities. After failing to recognise Mr. Rowan Atkinson, the eternal Mr. Bean, I no longer trust my facial recognition instincts. And obviously, Harry Styles wouldn’t be there travelling on a 12-hour low-cost flight from Oslo to LA. Maybe it was his double. THE BENEFIT OF BEING ON A BUDGET Anyway, I was lucky not to have paid extra for front-row seats, which were full, and ended up in the less populated back section, where there were six seats for two people. In other words, a long chaise for each of us—a kind of executive experience for the poor. I believe the gods were signalling that I needed to rest well for the adventure I was about to embark on. A luxury breakfast, unexpected comfort on the flight… sooner or later, I’ll have to pay for this. Thanks, Norse, for the trip! I didn’t know about you, but you’ll now be a go-to on my trusted list. Uma viagem para recusar Não podíamos deixar o velho continente sem aproveitar as regalias das viagens low-cost europeias. Pois bem, para conseguir uma viagem acessível, para as datas pretendidas tínhamos duas opções com escalas loucas. Optamos por uma escala independente, passando uma noite em Oslo, o que nos daria mais tempo para a organização final. Partimos de madrugada rumo à cidade fria. Umas horas a trabalhar desde o aeroporto e um transfer de 10 minutos para o hotel que custou mais do que a viagem Londres-Oslo. Depois de ter desmagnetizado dois cartões de entrada e desactivar um elevador, nada como um banho quente e uma cama confortável para cair. O PEQUENO ALMOÇO DOS DEUSES Descanso merecido e pela manhã um dos melhores pequenos almoços da vida mas apenas 15 minutos para o desfrutar. Injusto! Porquê tanta preguiça ao levantar? Porquê não me avisaram que estava à minha espera um manjar daqueles? A verdade é que não esperava um pequeno almoço de hotel tão variado e saboroso. Ovos perfeitamente cozinhados em múltiplas versões, pão, croissants, queijos e enchidos, fruta, salmão, etc. Não gosto de desperdiçar nada

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Towards the end of the world

The Wild Ride, TRAVELS

A perfect trip to be refused Uma viagem para recusar (Em Português AQUI) After a period of pandemic isolation, with constantly changing restrictions, and after spending time longing for the old routine, I received an invitation for a trip that was easy to refuse, yet tempting. WHY SHOULD I GO: It was an opportunity to explore a continent that was new to me. The America. That one colonised by Europeans that now has a mix of legacies. Where we find relics of ancient peoples, indigenous traditions, prejudices from less noble eras, and cultural influences from other parts of the world. It’s also filled with social and political conflicts, where some pursue superpower status while others fight to survive extreme poverty. A continent forced to receive what it both wanted and didn’t want from across the Atlantic. This is how I see the American continent, shaped by its contrasts. What has always fascinated me is its cultural diversity and what has grown from it. Despite the negative aspects of colonisation, I believe all this cultural blending has resulted in a wealthy continent, particularly in art, fashion, food, and music. America isn’t afraid to use colour, to mix flavours and sounds. It’s the continent of distances, where nature is as generous in what it offers as it is drastic in what it destroys. My favourites come from there: colourful Mexican embroidery, Argentine tango, U.S. pop art, Panamanian bananas, Colombian coffee, and even Brazilian music. WHY SHOULDN’T GO: For all these reasons, the invitation for this trip was indeed tempting, if not for the fact that it was offered as a ride on an off-road motorbike. Yes, this detail means that I could only have half a suitcase of clothes, a backpack for essentials, a laptop for work, and a very hard seat. No doubt that it was a trip to refuse. And I did refuse it. So many times I said no. I explained all the reasons I didn’t want to go. But I was not strong enough. So I said yes. Yes to give it a try until I realise it wasn’t for me, or perhaps until I changed my mind and decided to continue. This would be a crazy journey for some perfectionists, with so different expectations. This was the kind of trip I wouldn’t even dream of taking, but one that real life pushed me toward. CHANGE OF MIND: So, I committed to trying, to confront my fears and prejudices. It would be a few days in California and some more in Mexico to get a better sense of the culture outside the luxury resorts. I packed a dozen pieces of clothing, two pairs of shoes, and a strong will to step out of my comfort zone. It was time to embark on the adventure of travelling and working remotely with only the bare essentials. For this to happen, I had to renew my passport, pack up the clutter of my normal days, and set off with a backpack on my shoulders and a healthy portion of craziness. Uma viagem para recusar Depois de um período de clausura pandémica, restrições em constantes alterações, depois de um tempo a matar saudade do que era rotineiro, surgiu um convite para uma viagem fácil de recusar mas tentadora. PORQUE SIM: Uma experiência para conhecer um continente novo para mim. A tal América que foi colonizada pelos europeus e que vive agora com uma miscelânea de heranças. Por lá encontramos relíquias de povos ancestrais, tradições indígenas, preconceitos de épocas menos nobres, influências culturais de outras partes do mundo. Também não faltam guerras sociais e politicas, onde se busca o super poder ou se sobrevive à pobreza extrema. Um continente obrigado a receber o que queria e o que não queria, do outro lado do atlântico.. É assim que vejo o continente Americano, desenhado pelos seus contrastes. Pois o que sempre me chamou a atenção foi a diversidade cultural e o que nasceu dela. Apesar da parte negativa da colonização, penso que toda a mistura cultural deu origem a um continente bastante rico principalmente em arte, moda, comida, e música. A America não tem medo de usar cor, de misturar sabores e sons. É o continente das distâncias onde a natureza tanto é generosa no que oferece como drástica no que destrói. Muitas das minhas preferências vêm de lá. Os bordados coloridos Mexicanos, o tango Argentino, a arte pop dos Estados Unidos, a banana do Panamá, o café da Colômbia, ou mesmo a música Brasileira. PORQUE NÃO: Por tudo isto, o convite para esta viagem era bem sedutor, não fosse ela oferecida à boleia de uma mota todo-o-terreno. Sim, uma viagem apenas com direito a meia mala de roupa, uma mochila para os essenciais, um computador para trabalhar e um assento bem duro. Obviamente esta era uma viagem para ser recusar. E recusei. Insisti na minha recusa. Expliquei todas as razões para não querer ir. Recusei até ser convencida a tentar. A pelo menos experimentar até perceber que não é para mim, ou até mudar de ideias e decidir continuar. Esta seria um viagem de loucos e para uns loucos talvez demasiado perfeccionistas com diferentes expectativas para tal aventura. A tal viagem que nem em sonhos me metia, mas que a realidade e a oportunidade me empurrou para tal. MUDANÇA DE IDEIAS: Então comprometi-me a tentar. A confrontar os meus medos e preconceitos. Seriam uns dias na Califórnia e uns quantos no México para conhecer melhor a cultura fora dos resorts de luxo. Agarrei-me a uma dúzia de peças de roupa, 2 pares de calçado e vontade de sair da zona de conforto, para entrar na aventura de viajar e trabalhar à distância somente com o estritamente essencial. Para que isso acontecesse foi preciso renovar passaporte, empacotar a tralha dos meus dias normais e sair com uma mochila às costas e uma boa dose de loucura.

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Romantic Charm

PLACES, TRAVELS

Discover rustic chic at La Bastide de Marie, a relaxing and inspirational place for romance, from pre-wedding to honeymoon Entering the tranquil countryside of Provence, there are many special locations for a romantic getaway. Facing the mountain range of Luberon in Ménerbes, I find the charmingly restored 18th-century farmhouse of La Bastide de Marie. A well-kept secret, this house oozes authenticity and comfort, allowing guests to forget about the world outside. From the entrance to the living room, it is impossible to be indifferent to the environment with its fine combination of traditional and modern. Vintage furniture and antiques enhance the décor, giving a home away from home vibe. In the rooms and suites, each is designed with its own colour theme. They tell a different story though the delicate fabrics and little details, yet all express comfort and romantic harmony. Around the house, every “salut” comes served with a kind smile and attentive discretion. Serenity lives in every corner, beside the pool, in the shadow of a terrace garden tree and amongst the vineyard paths. I am visiting in autumn and the 23 hectares of vineyards look truly magical. The changing colours of the leaves create the perfect scenery for relaxation. We are sheltered inside with warmth and comfort, whilst the last sunbeams fall across the landscape. It is simply enchanting. Treat Yourself With the house green tea, a chocolate cake, or seasonal truffle. Pair the treats with a fruity rose Marie wine Wine & dine The cuisine at La Bastide de Marie is delicious. Every week the chef prepares an innovative menu, cooked with passion and creativity. Each dish focuses on quality, using the freshest products in the region at the time of year. Not only was the gastronomy rich in flavour, it was also presented beautifully. Overall, this made the food even more appetizing. As a famous wine-producing region, Provence boasts wines as flawless as you would expect, and La Bastide de Marie is no exception. The in-house wine, named Domaine de Marie, is made from eleven vine varieties and possesses a spicy, fruity flavour. The wine is an ideal accompaniment to salads or starters. However, if you’re opting for haute cuisine, the premium wine, Nº1, is recommended. Refined and elegant from 25-year old vines, these wines balance richness, finesse and complexity. PRE-WEDDING The surrounding area offers many options for couples getting ready to say, “I do”. Feel the fresh air on an electric bicycle ride and see the landscape up close, without a guide or time limit. On your travels, don’t miss the pretty village of Ménerbes. A beautiful stone commune built upon a rocky hill, the village is the perfect stop for a break with wine and truffle tasting. Another option is to venture to the tradition market in Gordes, where you can find lovely pieces of pottery, special condiments and spices. Here, you can also allow yourself to be seduced by the natural aroma of handmade soaps. For some décor inspiration, shop in the small town of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where you can find extraordinary antiques and a Sunday market. Every object tells of a different story and the market stands showcase some of the best flavours in the region. If you have time, visit the Edith Mézard shop for customisable linens and local souvenirs. Return to La Bastide de Marie at the end of the day and relish with a facial detox, pampering treatment, or massage at the Pure Altitude Spa. The in-house products use a selection of rare and natural ingredients from extreme environments, offering effective care for face, body and mind. WEDDING day A glorious venue for an intimate wedding, La Bastide de Marie is the perfect place to accommodate your guests. Spread across multiple levels, the 14 rooms allow everyone to stay in same space whilst maintaining a sense of privacy. You can declare your vows in any corner of the garden, surrounded by vines, olives and cypress trees. Alternatively, an indoor wedding at La Bastide de Marie is equally beautiful. Why not get married in the Vermentino Room with panoramic window, just a few steps from the main house? The panoramic views of the vineyard and access to the wine cellars make it an ideal location for lovers of the beverage. Saunter between the cellar and large terrace, an area enriched by the daytime sun and glistening stars at night. La Bastide de Marie is encompassed by the fragrant tones of lavender, serene beiges from the ancient stones, and purifying greenery. From sweet pastel colours to vibrant yellows, whatever your wedding theme or colour palette, it will look picturesque amongst the stunning backdrops. Honeymoon After a romantic wedding ceremony and reception, why not extend your stay for the honeymoon? Enjoy the sun by one of the outdoor swimming pools, or take a stroll around the vast garden. Rest on the terrace and take in the purifying breeze and gentle sound of the fountain. For more privacy on your honeymoon, stay in the Gipsy chic caravan. This nomadic abode is located in the garden and allows you to imagine a carefree lifestyle, free from modern constraints. Alternatively, at the end of the property is Villa Grenache, a house with five rooms, private terrace and heated outdoor swimming pool. It offers the same attentive hotel services as La Bastide de Marie, with the intimacy of living in your own private residence. This charming Provencal setting is the ultimate place to recharge your batteries before returning to daily life as a newly married couple.

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Stockholm

PLACES, TRAVELS

What can happen when you have five days off, no plans, but a desire to do something different? Refusing any kind of plan, I picked a random destination, booked the flight from a remote airport, and prepared myself for any situation. But before Edimburgh My great mistake Stockholm was the intention, but due to a booking mistake, I ended up travelling to Edinburgh first. It was a positive surprise, and despite the cold, the trip was full of warm memories. It was the last day of a cold November and I was waiting at Victoria Station for an overnight bus trip to Edinburgh. Just me, my 8kg rucksack containing essential items for survival and a big desire to escape from my routine. At 7am, before sunrise, I’d arrived in Edinburgh and had already climbed the Carlton Hill to see the first light of the day at a historical and mystical place. The rain wasn’t strong enough to stop me from wandering and getting lost among the hills, castles, old villages, museums and streets adorned with Christmas decorations. A few years ago, if someone had told me that one day I’d be having breakfast in a cemetery, I’d have thought it was a joke. In fact, it was the perfect spot to imagine the experiences of the people whose names were engraved on a tombstone. It was also the closest place to wait for the opening time of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. In front of the museum was a welcome garden – a meaningful place, as the lawn was landscaped by Charles Jencks, inspired by the chaos theory. Perhaps the only theory that can sum up my trip. For the first time, I saw the life-size “Ten Marilyns” by Andy Warhol. I love pop art, Warhol’s irony, impact and his reflection on repetition. That exhibition – “I want to be a machine”– proved to be an inspiration for my upcoming projects. At the Scottish National Gallery, I was invited by chance to participate in a pop-up “Can-Can” dance experience, as part of the Toulouse-Lautrec exhibition. The class was a funny cinematographic episode with a cardio and laughing exercise. And to complete the Lautrec experience, there was some lemon crepe tasting and French music, which made me feel like I was on my way to Paris instead. Back in a British mood I couldn’t avoid the Christmas market, enjoying the warming happiness of the festive time, and of course, I didn’t miss having some haggis at the pub before my departure to a Scandinavian land. Finally Sweden Why not start with my first mistake upon arrival to Sweden? Buying fizzy water as I didn’t understand the language. It was not funny. I really hate fizzy water. The city of islands Stockholm is divided but also connected by different bridges. A perfect combination of waterways and green spaces, romantic human-made sceneries and natural, landscaped views. It is calm – perfect for relaxation. The serenity of the water and the silence of cold air made me fully aware of my deep breath. Even though it is a capital city, busy and active, the routine and people’s movements looked like they were in slow motion. I was surprised by the architecture. The charming houses in the middle of a forest are a perfect illustration for fairy tales. Forgetting the Royal Palace or the monarchy’s icons, it’s still possible to feel enchanted and it’s a brain wave for any romance. Even the brief appearance of sunlight can move us into another chapter. At some points, it is impossible not to dare to dream. The Nordic winter days are quite short, but we don’t need to rush. Plus all the Christmas illuminations help us to enjoy the city at night as well. The best way to beat the low temperature is to always hold a hot drink, enter into all the traditional shops and be inspired by the amazing Scandinavian style. As an art and design lover, I couldn’t miss the Moderna Museet. After finally meeting some of my art history references, I discovered the Olafur Eliasson work and fell for his concept. Last but not least, my recommendation is to embrace the local vibe by trying to understand and use the Swedish word FIKA. The word means, ‘Take a break for a coffee and a bite to eat.’ It is the concept of enjoying the moment, slowing down and appreciating the good and simple things in life. After all that, I completely forgot the typical souvenirs (maybe because I took on the minimalistic Scandinavian style to focus only on essential things). Somehow, I did finish my experience regenerated, as a detox trip. All the time without witnesses or great photos to prove it, but instead, memories to feel the experience and a story to tell later. And that is what really matters, isn’t it?

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