It's true that we all have a favourite place, somewhere that has a real calming affect on us, where we are at ease and can truly be ourselves. I have traveled to many different countries down through the years and each place, certainly left its mark on me. Being moved by the landscape and the culture, allowing it all to open up my eyes and heart to the world we live in.
Experiences that really shaped me into the person that I am today. I remember so vividly, the first time that I got to visit the jungle. I had flew into Cancun not long after September the 11th happened. Flights were so cheap back then, so I took the opportunity to travel to Mexico.
I was personally, not very impressed with Cancun, with all of its lavish resorts. What I wanted, was to see the real Mexico!
So I took a bus to Tulum and chilled out at the Carribbean coast for a week. Blown away by the beaches and the beautiful ruins. Back then,(over 20 years ago) I stayed in a simple hut on the beach, now I hear Tulum is also full of resorts.
From there, I got a bus to Palenque, to see the Mayan ruins and step into the jungle for the first time. I was so excited.
I arrived just before dawn and found a room to rent, where I could get a few hours sleep before I explored the area.
The first day I explored the town and made enquires about how to get to the ruins. I booked a bus for the next morning. I somehow managed to sleep that night, even with the humidity and my excitement.That morning I woke super early and I was one of the first to wait in line to board the bus.
When we got there the sun was just starting to rise and I followed a path way through the jungle. I could hear howler monkeys rejoicing and an orchestra of insects. This jungle was so alive. I had to take. Few moments to take it all on, before continuing on my way.
I honestly didn't know where to look, every which way, just blew my mind. The trees, wow the trees and vines where amazing and so full of life. Up ahead, lay the ruins, but this sight that surrounded me now, was enough to bring tears to my eyes.
Visiting the jungle had been a dream of mine since I was a child.
And here I was, living my dream, feeling so much joy, so much excitement and filled with awe and wonder.
This is certainly how I feel, when I am in my happy place.
Throughout all my travels, I experienced that feeling many times. But it was not only when I was traveling. Being in nature, brings me that joy, as does dancing and when I listen to certain types of music.
My happy place is inside of me, I carry it with me, everywhere I go. And I can tap into it, whenever I like. Because it really is all about me living my best life and being true to who I am!
This is my response to the latest Ladies Of Hive contest, where @saffisara asked .......
If you could pick a favorite "happy place," where would that be?
