Free At Last…
Written: 05/25/2020
As many of you may have noticed and if you know me personally, you know that traveling and a sense of exploration and discovery is engrained in my soul. It is not only the seeking that sparks excitement and whimsy within me, it’s the depth in which I feel more acquainted and understanding of the people, culture and place. I always value depth and connection— with my family, friends, students, significant other, the barista at the coffee shop and pretty much everyone I encounter. Spending time visiting or living in a place brings me joy whether it’s for a weekend or living somewhere for years!!
During this crazy global pandemic, I haven’t been able to embrace this pillar part of my life (obviously, like everyone jaja!). I have found joys in many other things— like actually staying put and relaxing in my city and home, baking and cooking up a storm, tending to my stunning plants and taking on new hobbies like water colour panting and learning the ukulele. I really strive to find joy in all the little things.
As the months have gone by and the restrictions have loosened here in Albania, I finally got to do a little trip this past weekend. There is so much jaw-dropping beauty here in this hidden gem of a country and it truly just eased my soul. I was carrying some stress and sadness within my body with all the unknowns of when this will all end, when can I go home to see my family and what will my job situation be. With the economic effect of this crisis, my school has had some major problems and cut the majority of the staff for the next school year. I was feeling super emotional and a bit helpless, but getting out of my situation here and doing a little road trip really changed the game.
We drove from Durrës through Vlorë with stops for coffee and photo opts and reached Dhërmi. We spent a couple nights here, going to the Drymades Beach during the days.—THE MOST STUNNING turquoise water, limited people, rocks and mountains all around and not to mention the best seafood pasta I have ever had!
I was truly moved. We went to little villages and walked around— Vuno, Dhërmi, Himarë, Porto Palermo and to the Ali Pasha Fortress. (Pictured above!)
After we drove down to Sarandë and stopped for some goat photoshoots, chats with some shepherds, saved a few turtles and 2 puppies and just soaked in the peace of nature all around! How eventful was this 1.5 hour drive through the beautiful mountains?!
We stayed in Sarandë for a couple nights and walked around the city having pizza and ice cream ( Kayak Gelato & Frozen Yogurt!!).
We spent our days going to the Butrint National Park and having lunch and napping at Ksamil Beach. Just lovely and calm! On the way back, we stopped for some amazing byrek in Sarandë and made a stop the The Blue Eye!!! Another breathtaking piece of nature. I can’t wait until the water is a bit warmer, so I can jump in.
What a gift this country is and this little trip after quarantining for so long. When I returned, I countinued my potato life with the naps on the couch, some cooking, walks and phone chats!
I hope everyone gets in the green zone soon and can continue living life freely and hopefully with some “aha” moments, traveling and embracing people!
