Monday, May 13, 2013

Paradis perdus...paradise at the end of the world




I am on a constant quest to explore the world, in search of forgotten lands, away from the traveled paths. Being immersed in nature allows me to be my true self, brings me peace, joy, calmness and a sense of being, belonging to the universe.


In nature, I feel the powerful words of Max Ehrmann's timeless poem "Desiderata"



 "Be Yourself"



"Nurture strength of spirit"


"Be gentle with yourself"


"You are a child of the Universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here"



"And whether or not it is clear to you
no doubt
the Universe is unfolding as it should"


"Be at peace with God,whatever you conceive Him to be"



"and whatever your labors and aspirations
in the noisy confusion of life
Keep peace in your soul"


"It is still a beautiful world"


"be cheerful.
Strive to be happy"

Taking in the sunset...



I found my small piece of paradise on a remote island of the coast of Mozambique, Banguerra island. A few days of pure bliss, feeling the hours go by at a slow pace, taking in every moment in this glorious gentle landscape.

Mozambique is in Southern Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe and South Africa. Mozambique was a Portugese colony for four centuries and gained independence in 1975. The country after 2 years of independence, descended into an intense and brutal civil war until 1992. With the failure of Marxism, capitalism was established via multi reforms. The country is slowly regaining stability but still ranks among the the lowest GDP per capita, human development and  average life expectancy. Unfortunately, poverty and huge prevalence of corruption affect all sectors of the country, police, public administration,judiciary, public finance and world donations.

The landscape of the outer islands is magnificent, unspoiled, some of the best diving in the world and the clear warm waters of the Indian Ocean. We stayed at the Benguerra Lodge,  a beautiful thatched roof lodge, with a wonderful staff. With only 3 other guest groups in the Lodge, we really felt transported in a blissful word. Getting there from New York is an adventure in itself, we flew to  Atlanta, then on to Johannesburg, a 16 hours direct flight, spent the night in a charming hotel, up early to fly to Banguerra island via 3 different planes, getting smaller and smaller in size...one lost is Navigation system, so we were rerouted via Maputo the capital. Finally last leg of a trip on a 6 seater which flew us over these magnificent islands and landed on a smooth grass runway.

Our Casita

A room with a view...

Grat canopy bed...perfect for naps

Copper tub



The Lodge


Great Beachcombing


Fishermen' villages


Hard to say Goodbye...



A Bientôt,

Francine

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9 comments:

  1. Francine! Oh this was so very beautiful--I hate to admit it but I am green with jealousy. Wow. I have scrolled through your gorgeous photos three times already, trying to take it all in...that light!!

    And I really appreciate your travels that are never, ever "typique"...and knowing you, you probably did good along the way. :)

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  2. Francine, paradise indeed. A soothing sea experience; I wish I could be there with you !!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

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  3. Bonjour Francine!

    I just happened to be scrolling down on my older post and noticed you came by today! THANK YOU! Now I have you on my list of participants for the France post THIS FRIDAY, May 17. Are you still going to be posting? It will be lovely to have as many French bloggers! Your pictures here are so gorgeous and I know you would be a wonderful addition to our party. I believe you did tell me you would be in. I am having a giveaway on my current post of Vicki Archer's book, French Essence. If you are interested, let me know! Anita

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  4. Francine, you look beautiful and so happy. This is a good enough reason to travel, being beautiful and happy. I've never been anywhere in Africa, though both of my children have and spent much time there. So happy you will be with Anita in her Paris posts. Me too. Sending love....

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  5. Francine you look Fabulous, what out for that sun. The photo's are beautiful, we are all living vicariously through your adventures.
    Have fun.

    yvonne

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  6. Absolutely beautiful post, Francine.
    Thank you for popping by today always lovely to hear from you.
    Catherine xx
    (and yes, of course you can wear a little silk and tulle over 40 ;-)

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  7. Francine... Mozambique is on my 'must' list...
    Later in the year I am going to the Kalahari... I think Africa is my favourite destination... I promised myself I would try and go every year... there is something so energising and re-charging about safari... The mind truly switches off and we have time to really see what is in front of our eyes...
    Glad you had a wonderful time and that you made it home in one piece... xv

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  8. Francine,

    This is beyond gorgeous. How did you come to choose Mozambique?

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    Replies
    1. I read every french travel magazine (a bit more adventurous than US magazines) I love unchartered territories and was always intrigued by the raw beauty of this country, that had been ravaged by years of civil war.

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