Addicted to skiing

13 boarders, 3 skiiers

It's taken 3 years for me to go on a ski trip since moving to the UK, and I can't believe it took that long. A large group of us took off to the Dolomites in Italy for a quick weekend trip, where we skiied and ate huge amounts of pasta and pizza. Having only skiied once about 20 years ago in Verbier on a family holiday, I wasn't sure how much I'd remember. Turns out it's like driving a car - you don't really forget. All I needed was one refresher lesson on the first morning, and after that, I was good to go. I'm incredibly proud of myself for going up into the mountains and doing the red runs. Sure, I tumbled quite a few times, and I was a little scared to go fast, but by the third day, something clicked and I was able to conquer my fear and just let go. My favourite part was high up in the mountains, where the snow was powdery and we descended gradually while being framed on each side by magnificent trees. Truly magical. I can't wait for the next trip.

Quick trip to L.A.

Along Santa Monica boulevard

I had to go to L.A. for a last minute work trip last week, which was a pleasant surprise. Aside from the extremely long time it took to get out of LAX and having to contend with the culture of tipping, I had a really great time. The work part of the trip went well, and I managed to slip in a job interview which ended well. It was also so nice to enjoy the Californian sunshine and explore Santa Monica. I'm hoping I get more trips back there in the near future!



Pancakes and eggs for breakfast at the IHOP next to my hotel


Walking along Santa Monica Pier








I love Pinkberry! Especially the blood orange flavour and added extras of mochi



I had to buy $4 flip-flops from CVS Pharmacy after getting blisters from walking around in heels.


Having the signature umami burger and sweet potato fries at Umami Burger. No one does burgers like the Americans.


Eating lots of cake at champagne brunch at the Beverly Hilton

Late summer in Lake Garda (due)

Renting a car around Lake Garda was a great decision, as it allowed us to drive around and explore the little towns around the Lake. We particularly liked Limone and Malcesine, both very picturesque and charming in their own ways.

Limone










Malcesine

Late summer in Lake Garda (uno)

Sunning myself by the Lake

Back from my trip. It was a wonderful holiday, with everything I hoped for: lots of sun, cool nights, gorgeous views, time to relax and read, amazing food.

We stayed at a charming B&B up in the hills of Albisano in Torri del Benaco. Each day, we woke up to a beautiful view of the lake and breakfast outside on the terrace. It was a very idyllic few days. All the following pictures were taken in Torri del Benaco.