When the sun is setting, between dusk and darkness, there is a moment when the light turns blue. And the world stops for a heartbeat.
Unlike Venice or even Paris, Rome has the feel of everyday life everywhere. Even in the most touristy center, tucked in the narrow lane between two monuments is someone’s laundry drying from the window, and someone’s grandmother keeping a careful eye of the comings and goings on her street. The pulse of real Rome.
Note the grandmother of the street on the right…
Group photo credits to Alexandre Halbardier
One weekend with 250 friends is not enough – but then again 1 year with 500 was not enough either. New memories were made.
Let’s do many more mini-reunions before the next full-blown party 5 years from now.
PS. You can see the bigger pictures by clicking. If anyone wants the pictures in full size, send me a message.
The Sacred Heart of Paris – more commonly known as Sacré-Cœur Basilica – is in my opinion a more stunning than either Eiffel tower or Notre Dame. It has a strong meaning to me – as well as to my entire South African side of the family. I never spend time in Paris without lighting a candle.
To finish off a great week in France, my mum came to meet me in Paris. A lot of gossip, walks and wine followed – as appropriate. In between, we made it to some sights in the effort of re-capturing iconic sights of Paris. And what could be more iconic than Notre Dame and the pigeons.
The year in INSEAD was one of the best experiences of my life – so I definitely did not want to miss the reunion. About 250 classmates showed up – and some others were greatly missed! Another 5 years to the next one.
This weekend was my 5-year Insead (MBA) reunion. It was amazing to see all the people – many for the first time since graduation. To add to the memories, the evening party was hosted in the Fontainebleau castle. A visual masterpiece, and a phenomenal party!
Quirky stores, narrow streets, great restaurants, and great views (after lots and lots of stairs)… what is there not to love about Montmartre.
Paris is amazing for people watching. This lady sat opposite to me, wet from the rain outside and tired from the long day at work. Few minutes of closing your eyes can be relaxing. When she got off, she smiled.
My favorite part of Paris is Montmartre with its small alleys and tiny cafes. Getting lost in there is pure entertainment. However, this time I decided to behave a little more like a real tourist (also because I no longer have many of the old pictures I’ve taken from Paris) and headed to the Eiffel tower and Seine. You can’t deny it – it is impressive.
Life is hectic at the moment. For all the wrong reasons. But when you are really busy, there is nothing you need more than a break.
Three hours to Bruges, Belgium. Three nights. Small moments of peace.
If you wonder why I have so many after-the-sunset pictures… There isn’t exactly that many hours of daylight in here at the moment. Very quaint. Very Christmassy.
Blue Moment 