Welcome to the British summertime or, rather, the sporadic days of sun we are having! It never lasts long here, but it’s fabulous when it happens!
I started the month of May in Fleetwood, near Blackpool, with my sister and niece. We stayed in a lovely caravan and had a few great days out.
We went to Lytham St Annes and took a walk along the beach to the sea. It looked like it wasn’t that far out but we walked and walked and never reached it. It was at least 3 miles out which apparantly happens because the sand is very flat. We gave up because my niece, Amayah, started to get tired!
Lytham St Annes
Lytham St Annes
Lytham St Annes
Blackpool next…
Blackpool
Blackpool
Blackpool
We visited the local farm…
Farmer Parr’s Animal World
Farmer Parr’s Animal World
Farmer Parr’s Animal World
Back home and the following week was a Bank Holiday, so me, my brother and his girlfriend went out for Sunday Funday! It was a fab day out and we drank our way though the afternoon and into the evening.
Sunday Funday!
I went to Portugal for a friend’s wedding which I was so happy about. Living across the other side of the world, I missed lots of events like this, so I was ecstatic that I was able to go.
I went to Albufeira for the day…
Albufeira
Albufeira
Albufeira
One of my best friends got married and it was such a beautiful day..
Ali & Rhys
I took a walk along the beach to Vilamoura where I met up with friends for a few afternoon drinks which went down very well in the sunshine.
Praia da Falesia
Vilamoura
Praia da Falesia
Lastly, one of my photos received special recognition – Celebrity Award at Viewbug
Celebrity Award @ Viewbug
So, that was my May! Wishing everyone a happy week and summer ahead!
About The Changing Seasons
The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.
If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:
The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)
Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them
The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):
Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them.
It’s always such a lovely treat when I receive one of these blogging awards. I feel very humbled that someone takes time out of their day to recognise the work that I do.
Nilla from Image Earth Travel nominated me for this award back in December. Time flies and I have only just got round to responding, but thank you from the bottom of my heart for the nomination!
Sunshine Blogger Award
Rules
Thank the blogger who nominated you and link their blog so everyone can visit.
Answer the 11 questions asked by the blogger who nominated you.
Nominate 11 other bloggers and ask them 11 new questions.
Notify the nominees by commenting on their blog post.
List the rules and display the Award logo on your blog post.
Nilla’s questions
For how long have you been blogging?
I’ve been blogging for almost 6 years. I started Talkingthailand because I wanted to share all of my travel tales up until then and a blog is a good place to digitise all your life experiences, whatever they may be. Since then, it has evolved into a place where I record all the things I’ve done, seen, thought, ate and drank in the places where I have lived and the countries I have visited. It’s a work in progress!
What do you do if/when you suffer from Writer’s Block?
First, I get annoyed and wonder what is going on because I love writing! Second, I feel guily because I am not writing/posting as much as I’d like. Third, I realise we all have off days and I leave what I am (trying) to do and go for a run which always clears my head enough to come back and start afresh.
What goals have you set for your blog in 2019?
None! I started 2019 with plans of starting a new blog dedicated to travel planning. I have the website already and have been adding content to it, but it’s kind of fallen by the wayside. I have made big changes in my life this year and I am getting used to them, so everything has been put on hold while I attempt to get some sort of plan about what to do and where to go next. I am a long way along with this plan, but everything else will just have to wait until I am more settled and know exactly what I am doing.
Where do you see your blog 2 years from now?
See my previous answer. Until I know what I am doing, job wise, life wise etc., I am not really concentrating on where my blog will be in 2 years. I am still going to continue with my blog, but, for now, it’s not a priority.
What do you love most about writing?
I love the physical act of writing, the feeling of the keys under my fingers and thoughts and ideas being written out. I also love developing as a writer and I think that my writing has improved over the years and that has come from practice.
Do you prefer to travel solo or with someone?
Definitely solo! Most of the travelling I’ve done has been alone and I prefer it because I can do what I want, go where I want and see what I want. I don’t have any one else to worry about and I do things that I wouldn’t necessarily do if I was with someone else. Having said that, in my early days of travel, it would have been nice to share the views and/or memorable sites etc. with someone, so when, for example, I reached the summit of a mountain, I could have turned to my travel buddy and said “Wow it’s so beautiful isn’t it?”, but I’ve learned to do that to myself! I just say it aloud anyway 😉 and I can really enjoy the moment alone!
Do you think Ghost blogging is unethical?
There could be many reasons why someone wants to enlist a writer as a ghost writer – not enough time, not enough skills/knowledge etc., so I don’t think that it’s unethical from that point of view. Why not get the help of someone if you need them? I’ve done ghost writing in the past and, from a writer’s perspective, I think it’s a good way to practise your writing and to get feedback, so you are developing your collaboration skills etc. Plus, as long as you are happy for the person you are ghost writing for to get the credit for what you have written (It’s still yours!) 😉 then I don’t see any problem with it.
How do you create and cultivate relationships for your blog?
Respond to people who have taken the time to comment on your work. Read and comment on other blogs, and don’t stop! By doing this, I have made some wonderful friends and, although I have never met them in person, it feels like I have and have known them for a long time. I hope to meet them in the, not too distant, future!
Is your blog self-hosted or on the free WP platform and why did you go this way?
When I started my blog back in 2013, I used the free WP platform for a while, but then I wanted to try and make money from my blog and I thought the self-hosted option, with …co.uk, looked more professional for my objectives. Plus, there are more options with a self-hosted blog such as themes etc. However, now I have gone away from wanting to make money and am just happy with blogging as a hobby, either would have been sufficient, particularly as I’m not bothered about all the extra features you get.
What social media platform gives you the most exposure for your blog?
I don’t really look at my blog analytics, but I have the most followers on Twitter!
Any travel plans for 2019?
I have just returned from a week in Portugal where I attended my friend’s wedding. I am planning on having a break away with my sister and/or friends later in the year to Ibiza or somewhere else – no firm plans as yet.
My Nominees
3CStyle – Dominque’s wonderful world of fashion and classic, contemporary and chic style
Lismore Paper – Enjoy Lisa’s fabulous art creations with a vintage look
The Wall Gallery Blog – Another very talented artist, Kirt’s creativity shows no bounds
I really want to know, how we are in May already?! Time travels so fast when you’re having fun!
I started April with a little creativity. I wish I hadn’t coloured the flower with pencils as I don’t really like using that medium, but I thought I would try. The second one, I used charcoal and pencil.
Flower using coloured pencils
Pencil and Charcoal drawing
I went to London with my sister. We went to Leicester Square and Covent Garden and sat in the sunshine enjoying a couple of beverages.
London
London
London
Covent Garden, London
Then, we took to the tube to Camden Market. I’d never been there before and it is such a fun place to hang out. We didn’t realise it was a big as it was until we started exploring all the little alleyways. We ended up half a mile away from where we first sat. It really was a fabulous day out.
Camden Market, London
Camden Market, London
Camden Market, London
Camden Market, London
Camden, London
Camden, London
Camden, London
To keep fit, I like to run, so one week I set myself a running challenge and managed to run just short of a marathon – 38.79 km (24.1 miles). Mind you, it took me 5 days!
I started watching 2 brilliant programmes. The first is Our Planet with my favourite natural world presenter – David Attenborough. It is so utterly fantastic, it will make you stare at the wall and say out loud “Oh my God!” ( I do that a lot!)
It’s fascinating, it’s funny, and it’s awe-inspiring. Take the Blue Mannequin bird mating dance:
Then, there are scenes that are so very shocking, but necessary to bring awareness to what is happening to our planet and the consequences it has for every single creature (including us) that live on it:
The second programme is Earth From Space (the clue is in the name) – a mind-blowing view of earth from 7 km up. Satellites above show incredible colours, find new discoveries, and how the earth is affected by climate change. It is truly brilliant!
Have a fabulous May!
About The Changing Seasons
The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.
If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:
The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)
Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them
The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):
Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them.
When you think of Bangkok, you might imagine high-rise buildings, long traffic jams, millions of people all going about their day, and noise on every corner. And you’re right – it’s all of these things. What if I were to tell you that there are places, not at all far from all the commotion, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet, away from the madding crowds, the gorgeous trees and flowers, and the resident wildlife? Let’s see where the nature is in Bangkok.
Bang Pu Nature Reserve
Located in Samut Prakan, lies Bang Pu Nature Reserve – a great little spot where you can go bird-watching and where the locals go to feed the huge flocks of seagulls at the end of the pier.
It’s fun to walk along the elevated walkways through the mangroves with great views of the mudflats and out over the Gulf of Thailand. There’s even a birding hide where you can sit and wait for all the different species that can be found there.
Bang Pu Nature Reserve
Bang Pu Nature Reserve
Bang Pu Nature Reserve
Bang Pu Nature Reserve
Bang Pu Nature Reserve, Bangkok
Bang Pu Nature Reserve, Bangkok
Ancient City
Also in Samut Prakan is Muang Boran – or Ancient City, an open-air museum in the shape of Thailand and covering some 200 acres. The park is full of trees, plants, lakes, decorative bridges, and statues of buildings that can be found all over Thailand, some of which no longer exist.
The best way to see it is to hire a golf buggy or you can cycle round it but, be warned, it is very hot, so you need to take lots of water and wear sunscreen. There are places to buy refreshments in different parts of the park. It’s a really fabulous place to get out into the fresh air where you can learn about some of Thailand’s history.
The Ancient City – Bangkok
The Ancient City – Bangkok
The Ancient City – Bangkok
The Ancient City – Bangkok
The Ancient City – Bangkok
The Ancient City – Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort
Chulachomklao Fort is in Phra Samut Chedi District, around 29 km south of Bangkok. It’s a bit of a trek getting there, but it’s fun trying to find your own way there!
There’s lots to explore – a gun park and a bunker with disappearing guns. There’s a statue of King Rama V which stands at the front of the fort and you can also board the huge military ship – H.T.M.S Maeklong – which was used during WWII. Nearby, there is a mangrove forest where you can see the mudflats and critters that live there. You can also meet the resident monkeys who pay no attention to you whatsoever as they chase each other along the boardwalks.
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Chulachomklao Fort, Bangkok
Green Lung of Bangkok
The green lung of Bangkok is the nickname for Bang Krachao, a conservation area located in Phra Pradaeng district, located just across the river from Bangna.
There are orchards, gardens, and forests to explore and the best way to see it all is by bicycle. You can cycle to Bang Nampueng floating market where you can buy and try traditional Thai food. Not too far away is Sri Nakhon Khuankhan botanical gardens, full of tropical trees and flowers, a large pond and several walking and cycling paths. Many people go there to enjoy the nature and relaxed surroundings.
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bangkok’s Green Lung
Forest in the City
Pa Nai Krung or forest in the city, is located near Suvarnabhumi airport. It’s a beautiful area created to raise awareness of how important the preservation of forest areas is to the environment and where you can learn about forest ecosystems.
There are some 250 native trees, plants and shrubs and a sky-walk and observation tower where you can get fabulous views of the surrounding area.
Forest in the City, Bangkok
Forest in the City, Bangkok
Forest in the City, Bangkok
Forest in the city, Bangkok
Forest in the city, Bangkok
Forest in the city, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park
There are plenty of parks in Bangkok, but King Rama 9 park is the biggest, covering around 200 acres and there are 2,300 plant species and loads of trees for shade on a sunny day. There is plenty of wildlife to encounter too and many photographic opportunities to be had.
The park is split into six different areas, all with different varieties of plants and trees. Many people go to this park as the sun goes down to enjoy the fresh air and the greenery.
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
King Rama 9 Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park
Right in the middle of the city, Lumpini Park is a wonderful place to relax if you are out and about. It has a lake, many species of trees and flowers and around 30 species of birds.
This is another popular place for people to go in the evenings to relax after work or to do their daily exercise.
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
Lumpini Park, Bangkok
So, if you happen to be in Bangkok, I thoroughly recommend any of these places, especially King Rama 9 park – that was my favourite place to go when I lived there.
We all have times when even the smallest of tasks seem like an uphill climb. Life has a way of getting on top of us sometimes. But, staying motivated doesn’t have to be difficult, all it takes is a little determination and an ability to see the bigger picture. So, get up from your seat and try these things to stay at the top of your game.
Do some exercise
We all know that exercise makes you feel good, although the thought of going for a run makes some of us want to retreat to bed. But, just a few minutes of any type of exercise makes you feel happier – it’s the release of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine into our brains that causes the feelings of well-being. Your mind becomes clearer and you feel like you could take on the world. Exercise also helps you to become more motivated to try new things or even to finish that task you started.
Exercise for motivation
Make a to-do list
A to-do list is a good way to keep focused and you’ll feel motivated to finish all the tasks on your list in a given time frame. It’s such a good feeling when you cross off the last task! Keep it small though because if you keep adding to the same list, those feelings of despair might creep in and that will have the opposite effect.
To-Do List. Source: Max Pixel
Start with small steps
Rome wasn’t
built in a day, so whatever you’re doing, don’t race to finish it! Take your
time and produce quality rather than quantity. Start with the small things and
progress to the bigger, and potentially more complicated, tasks. The sense of
achievement you will feel at completing even the smallest of tasks will make
you feel more confident and more likely to carry on.
Small steps. Source: Flickr
Get out into nature
If you’re
struggling with motivation, there is nothing better than to get out in the
fresh air. Go for a walk and surround yourself with nature. You will be
surprised how much listening to birds or sitting by a lake relaxes you. Your
thoughts will be clearer and you’ll be ready to get back on that
self-motivation wagon.
Get out into nature
Educate yourself
I don’t mean go and register for a course, although, you could do that. What I mean by educate yourself is to do something that interests you. Go to an art gallery, watch a documentary or read a blog or a book. You’ll be able to find inspiration in these things and recreate it into the things that you set out to do. By doing this, you will think to yourself “I can do that too”!
Educate yourself
Don’t compare yourself with others
Everyone has different goals and objectives in life, so don’t compare yourself with anyone else. If you constantly think that everyone around you has a better car or earns more money or has a better job, you won’t get anywhere and you won’t need anyone to put you down, you’ll be doing that yourself. Remember one thing, it’s your life! It’s not your business what anyone else is doing and vice versa. Concentrate on living your life and achieving things for yourself – that’s where the motivation lies, not to mention the empowerment!
Don’t compare yourself to others
Remember why you are doing what you do
You could
be the most motivated person on the planet, but there will be days when you
just can’t be bothered. We have all been there. What you’ve got to do is to
think of why you set out doing what you are doing in the first place. Take a
break from it, sure, but always think about the end goal or the big picture. If
you don’t carry on, you’re never going to get there!
Remember why you are doing what you do
Celebrate
your Success
When you are focused on achieving your goals, whatever they may be, you might forget to stop and think about what you’ve done. It’s so easy to get engrossed in what you’re doing, to get in the flow of things, and that’s a good thing, but simply thinking about what you have accomplished rather than what lies ahead can help your motivation levels. If you take a moment to realise just how successful you are already, you will more determined than ever, so celebrate your successes – however small they are!
The month of March started with a lovely evening out with my friend Trudy and, on the way home, we were talking about how dead the town centre of Northampton is these days at night and how it used to be buzzing when we used to go out in town all the time. To which Trudy’s son Zack replied, “Well you did use to come out in town over 30 years ago!!” Thanks for that little chestnut of a reminder! 😉 But, age is just a number – we’d still party these youngsters under the table! 😉
Me and Trudy
I also spent an evening with my little sister! We went to her friend’s birthday meal. It’s nice to be able to do things like this while I am on my little hiatus!
My sister and me
I made an impromptu trip to Rotterdam and Amsterdam in March too! The light of my life left Bangkok and arrived in Rotterdam to begin his new life with his boyfriend. I took the Eurostar for the first time. It was awesome and I was very happy that I was able to take a bottle of red wine on board! 😉
Me and Chris – reunited
We spent the next day exploring Rotterdam.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam
Rotterdam
Rotterdam
The next day, I left for Amsterdam. I wandered around the streets with my camera before having a beer in the sunshine. It’s so lovely sitting by one of the many canals there.
The month of February started with a little snow in Northampton. As usual in this part of the world it never lasts long, but it everything looks pretty in white.
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…..
One of my photos received a Top Shot Award on Viewbug. A little boost for me at the beginning of the month! Even the small things bring joy 🙂
Bluff, New Zealand
One Sunday in February, I just couldn’t motivate myself to work, so I spent the afternoon watching Bohemian Rhapsody with my sister-in-law. If you haven’t watched it, I recommend you do, especially if you are a fan of Queen. It’s a fabulous celebration of the life of Queen and their brilliant front man – Freddie Mercury!
Since I moved in with my brother, I’ve had to find new routes to go running. I never realised my hometown was so pretty. I try to go running 3 or 4 times a week, and one day I managed to run 10 km for the first time in ages! Another high-five to me 😉
Northampton countryside
About The Changing Seasons
The Changing Seasons is a monthly challenge where bloggers around the world share what’s been happening in their month.
If you would like to join me and the others in this challenge, here are the guidelines:
The Changing Seasons Version One (photographic)
Each month, post 5-20 photos in a gallery that you feel represent your month
Don’t use photos from your archive. Only new shots.
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them
The Changing Seasons Version Two (you choose the format):
Each month, post a photo, recipe, painting, drawing, video, whatever that you feel says something about your month
Don’t use archive stuff. Only new material!
Tag your posts with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so others can find them.
I got the idea for this post from a Netflix show called Skin Wars (a fabulous insight into body painting – you should watch it!). The contestants painted their ideas onto someone’s body, I have chosen to write about my defining moments in life.
My Favourite Childhood
Memory
I remember the horse at my nursery. It was a spring horse and it was my favourite toy there. I’ve always loved horses and this may be what made me love them so much. I went to that nursery every day and I was never off the little horse, wrapped up in a world of fantasy as I bounced up and down on the saddle. I loved it that much, no other kid was allowed to play on it.
Spring Horse. Source: PublicDomainPictures
My Biggest Passion (s)
Growing up, I can’t say I was passionate about many things, but since going travelling and moving abroad over 10 years ago, my passion for certain things has grown. I love writing and I love photography and, until recently, I was always out and about with my camera and my notebook. (I will be doing that before long again – but I’m taking a little break from things). With both of these pastimes , I get to learn about different things and develop new skills, so it’s a win-win!
Photography Passion
My Greatest Achievement
My greatest achievement was getting my Bachelor of Science with honours in 2013. I started my Open University degree back in 1984. It was an Open degree, so I could choose any courses I wanted to make up the points I needed in order to obtain the full degree. I chose to do science and biology, brain, and behaviour, because that’s the sort of thing I was (am) interested in. I passed, but only just. After that, my life got in the way and I didn’t continue. However, after moving to Thailand, I decided to pick up where I left off. So, in 2010, I completed a psychology course which I passed with distinction. I was so thrilled with the result, it spurred me on. I did subsequent courses in philosophy, grammar, and myth in the Greek and Roman worlds – the latter 2 I did at the same time. Finally, in 2013, I achieved my degree. I was as proud as punch when I went to the degree ceremony to receive my award.
Degree ceremony
The Love of My Life
As I am currently single, the love of my life is my family. I’ve just returned home from living abroad for the past 10 years and while I am thinking about what to do next, I get to spend time with my beloved family. It’s so nice being close to them, being able to have coffee with my mum and sister or see my niece growing up. It’s lovely to be able to see them at a moment’s notice and to fully know what’s going on in their lives and not be separated by 6,000 miles.
Mum and Dad
My Most Memorable Adventure
In 2005, I took myself
to Australia for my first ever trip abroad. My second husband and I needed to have
time apart to decide whether we should continue our marriage, so I went to the
other side of the world. It took many walks up the beach to come to the
decision that two would become one. My decision set me on a path where I ended
up living in Thailand for 10 years. Since then, I have become more independent,
much happier, and I have learned lots of new things.
Adelaide, Australia
My Favourite Song (s)
This one is too hard to name just one song, so I am going to name 7! There are many more songs that I love.
Daft Punk ft. Pharrell
Williams and Nile Rogers – Lucky
This song is very different
from Daft Punk’s usual tunes, but I love it because it’s very uplifting and
makes me smile when I hear it
ABBA – I have a Dream
This is one of my favourites
from the movie Mamma Mia! I love it because the words are very inspiring – having
a dream and seeing good in everything. Everyone should have dreams and follow
them as best they can.
Xzibit – Paparazzi
(instrumental)
I heard this tune on season 1, episode 6 of The Sopranos when Junior becomes the official boss and they have a banquet to celebrate. Unbeknown to Junior, Tony and the others the FBI are covertly taking photos of them all. Xzibit’s Paparazzi was the theme tune and I don’t think I have ever heard a tune that goes so well with a scene. I had to watch it over again!
John Denver – Leaving on a Jet Plane
I love this song just
because every time I used to leave my family to go travelling or every time I flew
back to Bangkok after Christmas, they would sing this from the front door! It
makes me happy and it makes me cry!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFEhzS0hYco
Caro Emerald – On a Night
like This
A friend of mine told me about Caro Emerald and I started listening to her jazz and pop songs. On a night like this is feel good tune which never fails to get my foot tapping. I defy you to not sing along! The video is fab too – it reminds me of nights out with friends.
Israel Kamakawiwu’ole
– Somewhere over the Rainbow
I love this song
anyway, but Israel Kamakawiwu’ole’s ukulele melody version definitely takes you
somewhere over the rainbow. His voice is beautiful and matches the soft sound
of the ukulele. It conjures up images of his native Hawaii with blue seas and
white sandy beaches.
Louis Armstrong – It’s
a Wonderful World
The world is truly wonderful and Louis Armstrong’s raspy vocals perfectly captures this sentiment.
Let’s face it, there are plenty of things you can do to have fun. You can go to a concert, go on holiday, go shopping or arrange a party for friends, but everything is so expensive these days. The cost shouldn’t stop you in your quest to have fun, but if most of your salary is spent on bills what can you do? It’s important to have fun though. Having fun makes your life that much happier and more memorable, so don’t worry about a thing, here are 9 ways to have fun without spending money.
Draw a
picture
There are
endless subject materials in the world around us, you don’t even have to leave
the comfort of your home in order to draw. Grab a pencil and paper, look around
for something interesting and create your own drawing. It doesn’t matter if
your artistry skills aren’t up to scratch, the fun is in creating your own
masterpiece.
My Art
Write
Ever wanted
to put pen to paper and write something? Do it! Write about what you’ve done
that day, write about a favourite book or movie or simply write down your
thoughts. Start a blog and really get those creative juices flowing. You never
know, it might be something that you continue with and make it part of your
life.
Write something
Go for a walk
in the park
Leave the car at home and take a walk around your local park. Not only is it good exercise, but the sheer joy of walking, surrounded by trees and ponds, as you listen to the chirping birds and watch the squirrels scampering around is one of the simplest pleasures in life. And it’s completely free. Being outside in the fresh air makes you feel better too.
Beautiful nature – right on your doorstep
Bird
watching
This might not be an obvious choice, but bird-watching is another way to make the most of the great outdoors and have fun at the same time. You don’t have to go far, birds are everywhere! Remember to take your camera because half the fun is taking a photograph, but the other half is finding your subjects!
Backyard birds
Photography
challenge
Get out and about with your camera. You don’t have to have the latest model, you’re phone will do. Set yourself a challenge for the day and go out and see what you can find. Look for the small details, choose a colour or photograph one subject in different places, like doors or windows. It’s amazing what your eyes can see when you really open them and take in your surroundings.
Photographing the details
Listen to
music
Listen to
your favourite music and play tunes that you haven’t heard before – the shuffle
option on your playlist is good for that. Music has a way of lifting our
spirits, so kick off your shoes and dance around your living room like no one
is watching. As the song goes – the best things in life are free!
Listen to music – Source: Max Pixel
Learn
something new
Ever wanted to learn something new? A language? History? Philosophy? Learning doesn’t cost a penny, not if you take advantage of the wealth of information on the internet. It’s all right there at your fingertips and it’s free, so choose a subject and educate yourself. Not only will you develop your own knowledge, but you’ll be exercising your brain too!
Learning is fun – Source: Pixabay
Go on a
walking tour of your hometown
There’s no better way to learn about your hometown than to walk around it. When you go abroad, you’re a tourist and you spend time learning about your destination and taking lots of photographs, so why not do this in your own back yard and discover something you didn’t know.
Walking tour of your hometown
Do some
exercise
Exercise makes us feel good, but all that sweating and hard work might seem far from fun. To combat this, try hula-hoop dancing, belly-dancing or some other exercise that is upbeat and makes you smile. It feels a lot less like exercise, but it’s still great for your body and mind.
Preparing for big changes, especially if you know they’re coming takes some planning – not just physically but mentally and emotionally too. My big change was leaving Thailand for a new life in Spain, so here’s how I prepared for it.
Change is good
We all know change is good for us, but when it comes down to it, it’s sometimes easier to remain in our comfort zones. That warm place where everything is hunky dory, you’re having a ball and living your life happily. Why upset the apple cart when it’s like this? For me, change is a challenge and something that will give me new opportunities to help me develop and grow into the best version of myself.
Delapre Park, Northampton – Summer
Delapre Park, Northampton – Winter
That’s why I decided to leave my Thai life for a new life in Spain. It hasn’t quite worked out how I planned and I find myself back in my hometown but everything happens for the best, for a reason – right?
What it’s all about
Get out of your comfort zone and make some changes, particularly if you’re not happy with your current situation
If it doesn’t work, take a step sideways to reassess before you make your first move
Decide if this is what you want
I finally made the decision to leave my home in Bangkok. It’s a decision that didn’t come easy, Thailand was my home for almost 10 years and I honestly thought I’d stay there forever. I was vocal about this move a year before I left and I told my family and closest friends that I was planning on leaving, but I had to be sure that it was what I wanted.
It was a massive step for me, I never thought I would hear myself actually say that I wanted to leave, but I want to be closer to my family and friends and to be able to see them more regularly. Although everyone loves me being close and I love seeing them, I could not have moved just for this reason. I simply have to follow my own path. It’s my life and I intend to live it the way I want, so I’m happy. Life is far too short to be anything else.
Follow your own path in life
What it’s all about
Make
sure it’s what YOU want. It’s your life and you must do what makes YOU happy
Save money
For me, this was an obvious must-do when I was planning to leave Thailand. There were flights to book, things to ship home, hotels to book, and the list goes on. I frantically saved my money for almost a year before I left, so when I arrived in Spain, I could take time to explore before starting work again.
Save your cash
Living in Thailand, it’s a lot cheaper to live, so saving money each month was easier for me, but wherever you are there are ways to put aside money for your bigger plans. And that’s the key thing. If you’re planning a big move that should be bigger and more important than buying clothes, going out all the time or whatever else you spend money on. Work out how much money you realistically need to survive each month and as soon as you get paid, put the rest away and don’t be tempted to spend it. If you do, ask yourself, do you really need the thing you are about to buy? Probably not! Plus, another advantage from saving is that if anything unexpected happens, you’ll have money in your bank to deal with it.
What it’s all about
Think
of your end goal and imagine your new life
Make a pros and cons list
If you’re like me, you’ll love making lists. I have to-do lists, shopping lists, lists of blog posts I’m going to write about – I just love a good list. There weren’t any exceptions before I moved countries – I made a pros and cons list.
Pros and cons list
These kind
of lists are great if you’re unsure about something. They help you focus and to
see whether you have more things in favour of your decision or more things
against.
Some of my
pros:
New
start
New
places/country to explore
New
job
New
people
Closer
to friends and family
Good
weather (pleasant days rather than profusely sweating from the humidity)
Some of my
cons:
More
expensive
No
Chris ( a really good friend of mine who I’ll miss terribly because for the
past 4 years he has been such an influence and a big part of my life)
The
unknown (also exciting)
No
job
If your cons list is bigger than your pros list, then it may be wise to rethink your decision (or add a few more pros) 😉
What it’s all about
Think
about your decision by making a pros and cons list. It may help to make things
clearer – either way
Do your research
Unless you’re returning to your home country, it really does pay to do some research about your new destination, even if you’re just going on holiday it’s good to know about what you can see and do in a country.
But, moving
to a new country requires more research into things like the cost of living, accommodation,
visa requirements, schools, career prospects etc.
Do your research
I decided I
was moving to Spain, but I’d only been to Marbella and Ibiza before, so I
really didn’t know which region I was going to go to. I found Valencia and the
more I read about it I realised that this might be the place for me. For one, it’s still very Spanish,
unlike its more touristy neighbours of Barcelona and Alicante. There are
hundreds of museums, art exhibitions, and an impressive arts and science
centre. There’s an old river bed that runs through the centre of the city which
has been turned in a park, and there are miles of coastline with stunning
beaches. Plus, hiking and skiing in the mountains, natural swimming pools and
an efficient metro system to get around. Sounds idyllic, right?
It was! Valencia is a beautiful country and I can still see myself living there, but knowing what I know now, I probably should have gone and did my research there. Yes, I looked into accommodation before I got there, but it wasn’t until I was in the city that I found out it was much more difficult to find somewhere to live.
Valencia
I also
found out that hardly anyone speaks English which only added to my stress levels
when I was there. I learned a few words of Spanish, but not to the level that I
needed it. The fact that people don’t speak English usually presents itself as
an exciting challenge for me, but I guess this time it was just too much on top
of the emotional strain of moving to a new country.
Learn the language
What it’s all about
Do
extensive research about the ins and outs of your chosen destination
Learn
the language to ease you into the way of life
Have a plan B (and C and D)
Planning is
good, it helps us to prepare or look forward to things. However, it’s all very
well having a plan in the first place, but what if something unforeseen happens
and your plans go out of the window?
I’ve always
been a planner! Whether that’s planning a holiday, something to do at the
weekend, or moving countries – I simply love planning.
I planned to leave Thailand at the end of last year and I planned to make a new life in Spain. I left Thailand, as planned, 🙂 spent 10 days in Hikkaduwa, 10 days in the UK, and I was soon on my merry way to Valencia.
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka
I stayed at
a hotel for a week and I hoped that I would find an apartment within that time.
I didn’t! Because I don’t have income in Spain, the landlords were asking for a
lot of money up front, so I came back to the UK to reassess things and rethink
my next move.
However, even before I arrived in Valencia, there was something else that prompted me to make a plan B – BREXIT! Who knows what will happen with that, I think even the people in charge are clueless! In any case, when the UK leaves the EU next month maybe I (and countless others) won’t be able to live in Europe as easy as we can now. I prefer to remain positive and think that not much will change, but let’s see!
Be positive
So, my plan
B was (is) to live in the UK and make my base here. Then, if I work remotely I
can still travel to other countries to visit and/or work from time to time.
What it’s all about
Always
make a plan B, C…… in case your first plan doesn’t work out the way you thought
it would
Keep
a positive mind that everything will work out just fine – it’s worked for me on
several occasions in the past
Pack well in advance
I’ve had a lot of practice with packing. I’ve done it several times – I went travelling for 10 months, I left for a life in Thailand, I left Thailand to return to the UK for 2 years, I returned to Thailand, and more recently, I left Thailand for a life in Spain. Surprisingly, I find packing for short holidays more difficult that full-on “moving to another country” packing!
But, each
time, I started packing well in advance of my departure date. It was stressful
enough making all these moves, so the earlier you start to pack the less
stressed you will feel with this part of the process.
Pack well in advance
It’s not
just about packing your suitcase (s). It’s also about getting rid of all the
stuff you accumulate and it’s astonishing how much of it you actually collect!
Of course, it’s a joy to put roots down in your chosen home, but when it comes
to leaving, you can’t take it all with you however much you want to. So, you
have to be as ruthless as you can – a skill I have honed over the years.
When I
started packing up for my departure from Thailand, I began with throwing things
away as I moved about my apartment – little things like jewellery, clothes, and
things in my drawers that hadn’t seen the light of day since I put them in
there. The bigger things took a bit more thought and planning.
I wasn’t getting rid of my books this time! I’ve done this before and I regretted it. I love my books and I’d built up a small collection since I’d arrived back in Thailand in 2014. So, my ruthlessness waned somewhat! I wondered how I was going to take them with me, especially with the restricting weight allowance that airlines give you. A friend told me about Send My Bag – a worldwide luggage shipping service. Their website is easy to use and you can find out up front how much it is going to cost to transport your stuff between countries. I shipped 2 boxes full weighing around 22 kg each filled with my prized possessions. It cost much less than if I’d sent them through the postal service and my boxes arrived home within 3 days!
My prized possessions
Then there were my clothes. It was easier to be merciless and I happily chucked away items that I hadn’t worn in a long time, those that didn’t fit anymore, or simply because many were not suitable for the European weather. I found a second hand shop in Bangkok that takes old clothing and recreates them into unique products. This provides employment opportunities for the people who live in the slums of Bangkok and financial help to the second hand shop.
Book bags
Pencil cases
Toy elephants
What it’s all about
Start
packing with plenty of time to spare
Use
Send my bag for cheaper shipping costs
Find
a local charity shop to donate old clothing items
The little
things
When you’re moving to a new country, you need to take care of the little things too.
To do checklist
All the planning and preparation to leave Thailand served me well. Now, I’m in the throes of preparing for my next move! 🙂
What measures have you taken to prepare for a big move in your life?
