27 Comments

Top-tier. As someone who makes it a point to keep a chunk of their trips for just "hanging out", I couldn't agree more. So well-described, but. You took us into your mind while you were doing nothing, and I loved that bit.

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Beautiful. Most of my trips, I go unplanned, slow down and appreciate being witness to the extraordinary ordinariness of life.

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This was such a soft and beautiful read❤️ Beauty really is all about paying attention, isn't it? I remember going to a public park when on holiday in Pondicherry and spending 45 minutes just looking at how different trees sway in the wind and it was one of my favorite memories from the trip!

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The kind of trip that I would like to do , someday!! For now, travelling vicariously through your wonderful posts..And a dash of Mary Oliver makes everything better!!

Keep writing.

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Lovely read! I wish I had your clear-sightedness of vacations being experiences instead of frantic Fomo-driven top attractions hopping. I'll get there, one day.

Also, your newsletter (and social media) is my window into poetry so thank you for that.

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Hey, I am planning a trip to Bali in April. I plan to stay in Ubud. Could you please share the link to the AirBnB you stayed? Thanks

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Your writing soothes me. It moves me. I somehow feel you're writing for me, sometimes I feel you are me - the voice, tone and how you think. I have wanted to be a solo wanderer for ever. Have done some solo wanderings. But now there's an urge. I loved the poems by Mary Oliver and the last quote by Michael Montaigne. Your writing urges me to pick up my writing from where I left off. Thank you. Lots of love.

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I have been following your newsletter for a few months now and you have done the impossible- prompt me to travel when it isn’t forced on me by friends or work. Indonesia (Mt Bromo) calling!

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What a delightful read. It was like sipping on comforting tea.

Just the mention of Rajnigandha and Champa cheered me up so much. This one is a special post.

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I have no plans to go to Bali anytime soon but this is literally my dream vacation, wherever I go. I love doing nothing other than maybe taking walks and exploring cafes in unknown places. Thank you for this post, which I am going to use next time I'm traveling with my partner - a Duracell Bunny traveler, if there ever was one 😊

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Beautifully written Ila. As always :)

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Just existing in a place and not doing anything - this has been my life everywhere. Loved it. I wonder if you also feel that all Sundays look and feel the same everywhere. Aimless, explore worthy and peaceful. What a lovely post, as usual. Thank you.

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I like your "i dont give a damn attitude"

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