So often I am asked this question: What is your favorite place? Actually I have so many it is very difficult to choose. Usually I just say Florence, Italy! But why? What makes for a favorite place?
For me a favorite is defined by sights, smells, surprises and expectations. The visual for me is a big part of a favorite. Sitting having a cool drink looking at the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx was a bit overwhelming. Knowing this is a once in a lifetime experience and having the time to just sit and inhale the vision.
Some smells never leave us since they are so strong. The smells of grilled food at La Tupina, Bordeaux was overwhelming too! I hope to go back some day.
The surprise of Michelangelo’s David was a favorite to be sure. Maybe this is why I usually say Florence. We all know what he looks like: a young lad with a sling shot. Well yes from the front this is so. But go to his backside and he becomes a strong muscular man and over the left shoulder he becomes angry as to say, ‘why did you make me kill you?’ How can a piece of marble emit so many emotions? If you ever go allow lots of time.
Then there are expectations. We plan and look forward yet never quite know how we will feel or respond. A favorite holiday includes a few days of driving in the countryside. I have driven many a day in Italy and France along the back roads. A good Michelin map can show the way! They can mark where there are steep hills and winding roads. For me, the more the merrier. Driving from the Mediterranean coast to Carcassonne was great but this year’s drive along the Amalfi Coast was definitely a favorite!
Lastly there are my days of scuba diving, which encompassed all sight, smell, surprise and expectation. Clearly a favorite! And making best of friends in Atlantis, South Africa is forever a favorite.
What is your favorite place?
AlwaysHarriet 