Author: Lynne Strong

I am a 6th generation farmer who loves surrounding myself with optimistic, courageous people who believe in inclusion, diversity and equality and embrace the power of collaboration. I am the founder of Picture You in Agriculture. Our team design and deliver programs that inspire pride in Australian agriculture and support young people to thrive in business and life

Rethinking the Walls. My Journey into What Truly Matters

The two walls in my house have always felt like symbols of our family’s journey. One wall showcases what I thought we’d achieved together—my husband, my son, and myself. The other wall celebrates my son’s milestones, a tribute to his growth, his accomplishments, and the path he’s carved out for himself. But as I look at these walls now, I find myself asking deeper questions. What do these displays truly say about me? About the choices I’ve made, and perhaps, the expectations I’ve placed on myself and on my family?

Was I, in some way, living through my son’s achievements? Maybe I was. It’s a humbling question to ask myself, but one that feels important. I wonder if, in curating these walls, I was seeking a kind of validation—proof that our family was progressing, that we were “succeeding.” Achievements, after all, are tangible markers of success. They tell the world that we’re doing well, that we’re reaching milestones worth celebrating. But was I creating these walls for our family, or for my own sense of accomplishment?

There’s a vulnerability in realizing that perhaps these walls reflect my own aspirations more than our shared experiences. In focusing so heavily on achievements, I may have inadvertently narrowed the story of our family to a collection of accomplishments, rather than a rich, lived experience. Achievements are wonderful, but they’re only part of the story. They don’t capture the quiet moments, the laughter, the challenges we’ve overcome, or the values that bind us together.

Reflecting on this, I think about the times I’ve spent with Peter Brown, walking through his home filled with meaningful art and mementos. Each piece in his home is not just a record of achievement, but a reminder of the life he and his wife have lived together, the choices they’ve made, and the values they hold dear. His home tells a story that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

Perhaps, in my own way, I was trying to tell a story too—a story of our family’s growth and success. But maybe I missed something along the way. Maybe, in focusing on what we’ve achieved, I overlooked the parts of our story that are less tangible but equally meaningful.

Now, I’m beginning to wonder what our home would look like if it reflected more than just accomplishments. What if our walls told a story of our shared moments, our quirks, the things we’ve learned together? What if I asked my husband and son what they would like to see on the walls—what memories, what values, what experiences have shaped them and our family?

This isn’t about tearing down the walls of achievement, but about expanding them to include the heart of our story. By doing so, I might discover a different narrative—a narrative that isn’t just about success, but about love, connection, and the life we’ve built together. It’s a reminder that while accomplishments are worth celebrating, they are only a part of who we are as a family.

In the end, perhaps what I’m really searching for is a way to create a home that feels like us—a home that doesn’t just show what we’ve done, but who we are. It’s an invitation to rethink not just what goes on the walls, but what we hold dear in our hearts. And maybe, just maybe, that will be the greatest achievement of all.

#FamilyReflection #Legacy #HomeStory #LifeThroughArt #FamilyNarrative #SharedMoments #AchievementsAndBeyond #LivingWithMeaning #FamilyValues #HomeDecorWithHeart #ParentingJourney #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #CelebratingFamily #FindingMeaning

 

Seeking to understand America’s gun culture and political choices by listening first.

Attempting to understand rather than judge is not about agreement but about connection. Through Franks’ lens, I was reminded that real change, or even just meaningful dialogue, starts with an open mind. Instead of wondering “how could they?” perhaps the question should be, “what do they see that I don’t?” This willingness to listen and reflect is what ultimately bridges the gap, fostering respect and, hopefully, paving the way for a deeper understanding.

As someone living in Australia, it’s challenging for me to understand some aspects of American life that differ so fundamentally from my own. I’ve often wondered about the intense attachment to firearms in the United States, where gun ownership is not just a right but a deeply ingrained part of identity for many. Equally perplexing is the political support for figures like Donald Trump, whose values and actions seem so far removed from those held by the average Australian. In my efforts to understand, I’ve come to appreciate the value of stepping back and listening to others’ realities without judgment.

Earlier this year, Melbourne photographer Tom Franks took a trip to Arizona with an ambitious project: he wanted to capture portraits of everyday Americans and their guns. What he returned with was a series that showed not just people with their firearms, but a community whose reality is fundamentally different from ours. In Prescott, Arizona, Franks found mothers, homemakers, even children with their own guns. To many Americans, guns represent self-reliance and protection, cultural cornerstones built over generations, and codified in their constitution. Franks’ experiences reminded me how vital it is to approach such topics with an open mind, setting aside personal judgments to understand why others make the choices they do.  Please visit Tom’s website here to see more of this amazing series

For many Australians, it might seem unimaginable to live with guns as casually as any other household item. But the gun culture in America is intricately tied to a collective sense of freedom and individual rights. Franks noted that his subjects were warm, welcoming, and proud to share their experiences, viewing gun ownership as something entirely normal. Their cultural reality, though so different from ours, isn’t an anomaly – it’s a deeply embedded value.

This journey to understand extends beyond the tangible matter of guns to the more complex question of political preferences, particularly support for leaders like Donald Trump. For many Americans, Trump embodies a spirit of resistance to government control, a rugged individualism that resonates in ways that are hard to grasp from afar. Much like gun ownership, Trump represents more than just policy; he stands as a symbol for a vision of America that values self-sufficiency and protection from external influence.

These values stem from lived experiences and collective memories that are largely distinct from Australia’s, yet they are very real for those who hold them. For Americans in places like Arizona, choices we may see as counterintuitive or even harmful make sense within the framework of their reality. Franks’ project highlighted a truth that resonates deeply with me: if we truly wish to understand others, we must listen to their stories without the filter of our own assumptions. Only by doing so can we begin to see the world from their perspective.

Attempting to understand rather than judge is not about agreement but about connection. Through Franks’ lens, I was reminded that real change, or even just meaningful dialogue, starts with an open mind. Instead of wondering “how could they?” perhaps the question should be, “what do they see that I don’t?” This willingness to listen and reflect is what ultimately bridges the gap, fostering respect and, hopefully, paving the way for a deeper understanding.

#CulturalPerspectives #GunOwnership #AmericanPolitics #UnderstandingDifferences #EmpathyInAction #ListeningToLearn #OpenMindedness #BridgingDivides #SocialUnderstanding

Read article ‘Everybody owns a gun. It’s like having a cordless drill’

Other articles in the Sydney Morning Herald on this day 8th November 2024 when many of us feel the world stepped back in time and forgot that thousands and thousands of people died to save us from dictators

Trump trounced the Democrats, but will he also destroy democracy?
“Most Americans believe that their country is riddled with corruption … that government serves the elites and not the people,” Peter Hartcher wrote in the aftermath of Donald Trump’s extraordinary US presidential election victory on Tuesday. “And now they have delivered the death sentence to the system they feel betrayed them.”
It’s a grim analysis, but Hartcher wasn’t alone.
Jacqueline Maley said the success of Trump’s campaign, loaded as it was with “rank masculinity”, was a particularly bitter disappointment for women. “If we thought the desolation in 2016 was bad, when a fresher Donald Trump trounced the highly qualified Hillary Clinton, it is worse now,” she wrote.
US-born Bruce Wolpe, who has worked on many Democrat campaigns, was also despairing at what might be ahead for the world with Trump back in the White House. “It’s beginning to look and feel like the 1930s,” Wolpe suggested.
New York-based Maureen Dowd identified the uncomfortable truths now confronting the land of the free. “We must now fathom the unfathomable: all the misogynistic things, the racist things, the crude things, the undemocratic things he’s said and done don’t negate his appeal to millions of voters.”
Niki Savva interrogated the implications of Trump’s victory on Australian politics. “The core issues during the US presidential election were the cost of living, immigration, abortion and the character of the candidates. These same issues – intractable, incendiary and dispiriting – will also figure here in the next federal election, which threatens to be as close, as unpredictable, and as divisive.”

and even more and yes, yesterday I promised myself I would read less news – just goes to show its baby steps

So Donald Trump’s Back in the White House… Let’s Get On with Living

Well, here we are. Donald Trump is back in the White House, and a whole lot of people around the world are feeling, let’s say, less than thrilled. It’s like the sequel you were hoping wouldn’t get made, but here it is anyway. Deep breaths, everyone.

But let’s be honest: we can’t control it. The politics machine keeps turning, but here’s the good news—we get to decide how to live our lives. If there’s a silver lining to this, it’s that this moment reminds us to lean even harder into the things that make life rich and worth every second.

I’m talking about something big here—living to the fullest. That’s my plan, and if you’re feeling the weight of this political news, maybe it can be yours too. Here’s my new list, for anyone who’s ready to shrug it off and get back to what matters:

  1. See More Sunrises: We’re talking about those real, quiet moments that are just for you. Get up early, or stay out a little later to watch the sunrise, listen to the sounds of your neighbourhood, and breathe it all in.
  2. Turn Off the News (for a bit): As much as I respect journalists, we all need a break. Go learn something new, read that book you’ve been putting off, or head outside and soak up the fresh air.
  3. Save for Experiences, Not Stuff: Instead of splurging on the latest gadget or trend, I’m putting those funds toward experiences. This year is about seeing more of the world, meeting people, and stepping out of my comfort zone—experiences that will last longer than any news cycle.
  4. Get Involved, Where It Counts: Sometimes the biggest impact is right in your own backyard. Join a local cause, volunteer, support your community, and let your energy go where it can make a real difference.
  5. Laugh, Especially When It’s Hard: The world may feel absurd, and there will be endless jokes about “The Donald: Take Two.” Embrace the humour and find the funny side where you can—it’s good for resilience and, frankly, a necessary coping mechanism right now.
  6. Connect with People: In a time where everything can feel disconnected and polarised, make the effort to reach out. Check on friends, family, and neighbours. Because in the end, no one can take away the simple act of being there for each other.

So, Trump’s back—but that’s not the story of our lives. Let’s stay focused on the people and places that ground us, fuel our passions, and remind us what truly matters. Life isn’t waiting for anyone, so let’s make the most of it, no matter who’s sitting in the Oval Office.

#LivingLifeFully #PostElectionLife #FocusOnWhatMatters #FindTheGood #LifeGoesOn #LaughAndLive #SeeTheWorld #PositiveVibesOnly #LocalImpact #StayConnected

 

Discovering the World Through Stories and Places –

I recently watched No Time to Die a Bond movie because it reminded me of Matera Puglia, a place I’d visited and found absolutely breathtaking.

Watching those sweeping scenes set against the rugged beauty of Matera brought back vivid memories—it’s not just a movie location for me but a place where I’ve walked, stayed, and felt its spirit come alive. Yet, beneath the cinematic thrill, Bond’s story touches on something deeply sobering: the cost of sacrificing for the greater good.

The Bond movies and the Inspector Gamache series capture two different visions of heroism. Bond is forever in high-stakes fights to save the world, driven by duty and thrill, often at the expense of his own happiness. Gamache, by contrast, is grounded in a personal mission—creating a safe world for his family and the community he cherishes in Three Pines.

Real-life heroes face similar personal sacrifices, navigating losses, traumas, and an unyielding sense of duty. And it makes me wonder: What can we do, in our own lives, to contribute to a safer, more compassionate world? Though we may not be spies or detectives, each day gives us a chance to embody courage, empathy, and integrity in ways that matter. In a complex, often conflicted world, these small acts are steps each of us can take toward the greater good.

Seeing Matera on screen, familiar and yet transformed, reminds me of how much there is to discover in the world. There’s a depth to places that only reveals itself when you walk their streets and breathe their air. And somehow, that makes the sacrifices of these characters even more profound—they’re fighting to protect a world we know to be achingly beautiful.

At the film’s end, Bond and Madelaine share a haunting moment: “If only we had more time,” she says, to which he replies, “But you have more time.” It’s a poignant reminder of life’s finite nature and an encouragement to live fully, holding close what truly matters.

This movie underscores that raising the next generation isn’t the duty of one person alone—it’s a shared mission. Women, as mothers and partners, are central, not as bystanders but as co-creators of the world we wish to leave behind. Together, we raise children with integrity, compassion, and strength, shaping a world we can be proud of. Each of us has the time left to work toward a legacy of equality and shared responsibility.

BTW the beautiful hotel where I stayed in the cave in my pictures is Hotel Le Origini

#BondMovies #InspectorGamache #MateraPuglia #DiscoverTheWorld #ExploreMore #HeroismAndSacrifice #TravelAndStorytelling #TimeAndRegret #CommunityAndCourage

 

 

The Heart of The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny – A review

I always get excited when a pre-ordered Louise Penny novel arrives on my Kindle. After 19 books, it must be challenging to bring a fresh crime adventure to life. While I found the plot in The Grey Wolf highly implausible, I’ll keep reading her novels for the deep humanity they exude.
Here is my review ……
In The Grey Wolf, Louise Penny once again invites readers into the world of Armand Gamache and the village of Three Pines. While the crime element may now feel implausible, Penny’s storytelling remains driven by her commitment to explore life’s quieter, more human moments.
This is a perfect example:
Gamache’s character is beautifully portrayed through the lines etched on his face:
“And then he smiled at her. And as he did, the furrows deepened. And she was reminded that while some of the lines down his face were certainly caused by pain and sorrow, stress and grief, by far the deepest impressions were made by just this. Smiling. Like lines on a map, these chartered the longitude and latitude, the journey of a man who had found happiness.”
Such a beautiful way to capture a man who has faced suffering yet chooses to embrace joy, embodying resilience.
The village of Three Pines feels like more than a setting; it’s a place I wish I could call home, a true sanctuary offering “comfort in an ever-changing world.” It restores its residents, giving them a sense of belonging without isolating them from the realities of life—a beautiful reminder of the healing power of community. Yet, even in this idyllic place, Gamache’s moral complexity stands out as he navigates his own inner conflicts. Haunted by Dr. King’s words,
“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends,” Gamache embodies a commitment to justice and integrity, even when the path forward is filled with doubt.

Jean-Guy Beauvoir’s growth resonates deeply with me, especially his journey toward understanding the importance of feelings—a journey I think many of us can relate to. When we’re younger and haven’t yet faced life’s harder truths, it’s easy to overlook the power of compassion and empathy. Penny captures this beautifully in Beauvoir’s transformation:

“In the past Jean-Guy Beauvoir’s disdain of feelings would have been obvious.” But through his work with Gamache, his experiences in rehab, and the love he has for Annie and his children, he’s learned that “feelings were where it all began,” and that they drive the choices and actions that define us.

I can’t help but wish that this capacity for compassion were innate, something we all carried naturally from the beginning. But perhaps it’s life’s challenges—the losses, love, and struggles—that awaken it within us. Penny’s portrayal of Beauvoir’s evolution reminds me of the importance of nurturing empathy in ourselves, no matter where we are on our journey. It’s this focus on compassion and connection that makes her stories so powerful, and why I keep returning to them.

At its core, The Grey Wolf grapples with the parable of the two wolves—compassion and rage—a theme that mirrors Gamache’s internal battle and Penny’s exploration of moral choice.

  “We all have them, inside. Best to acknowledge that. Only then can we choose which one we feed.” Armand turned and looked out across the mirror lake. “There’s a huge black wolf out there, Jean-Guy. Has been for a while. Feeding on rage, on the need for power. Spreading fear and hatred. Infecting the frightened and vulnerable. Convincing them to do the unthinkable.” “We need to find him. We need to stop him,” said Jean-Guy. “Or her,” said Armand, even as he saw his own black wolf lift its head. “But there’s also a grey wolf. We need to find him too.” Jean-Guy considered before saying what he was thinking. But finally, he spoke. “Are we so sure which is which, patron?”
Despite a crime plot that stretches belief, the novel resonates through its focus on courage, community, and the power of compassion over judgment.

#TheGreyWolf #LouisePenny #ArmandGamache #ThreePines #CompassionAndCommunity #CrimeFiction #MoralChoices #BookReview

 

10 Essential Travel Hacks I Swear By After My Latest Overseas Trip

Travelling teaches you some indispensable lessons — and it’s often the simplest tips that save the day. Here’s my collection of 10 tried-and-true travel hacks that made all the difference on my recent trip.

1. Compression Cubes: The Packing Revelation

If you haven’t tried compression cubes yet, you’re missing out. They compress everything down to a fraction of the original size, maximising suitcase space. Compression cubes turn even the messiest packer into a pro.

Compression cubes come in all sizes but there are very few options to buy individual sizes 

2. The Wrinkle-Removing Spray Bottle Trick

A small spray bottle filled with water can smooth out wrinkles in your clothes without needing an iron. Spritz, shake, or hang – it’s quick, effective, and space-saving.

My spray bottle can fit in anywhere and can turn this into this in 2 mins. 

3. Know When Your Airline Allows Check-In

To avoid waiting in departure areas where there are often no seats, check your airline’s earliest check-in time. Many let you check in early, so you can offload your bags and find a comfortable spot to wait. Beware ITA doesn’t open until two hours before check-in and by this time the queue can stretch out the door. Wont be travelling ITA again. Emirates and Qantas are awesome opening at least 24 hours before.

4. Invest in a Good Travel Adapter

Find a universal travel adapter with USB A and USB C ports so you can charge multiple devices at once. It’s a one-time investment that’ll save you loads of hassle across countries.

I had this one which I love as the colour makes it easier to find. I left it in a hotel ( one of only two items I left behind 👏👏) 

I now have this one which has 3 USB C ports

5. The Ever-Ready Power Bank

Always carry a small power bank and ensure it’s fully charged. With phones handling everything from maps to boarding passes, it’s a simple must-have for any traveller. I also take a lot of photos so I carry mine in my pocket. I currently use this one 

6. Luggage Straps: A Lifesaver in Disguise

Luggage straps saved the day when the zip on my large suitcase burst. Not only did the strap hold everything in, but its bright colour made it easy to spot on the carousel. I buy mine at Strandbags

 

7. Digital Copies of Important Documents

Keep digital copies of your passport, travel insurance, and bookings stored on your phone or in the cloud. If anything goes missing, you’ll still have access. A printed copy in your bag is also a good backup. I found everywhere I went including hotel were happy with a digital copy which you can email to them

8. Pack a Lightweight, Foldable Tote Bag

A foldable tote or duffel bag is a lifesaver for extra purchases, day trips, or laundry. It packs down small and expands to give you much-needed extra space.

9. Use AirTags or Tile Trackers for Luggage

Add an AirTag or Tile tracker to your suitcase so you can track its location with your phone. If your luggage doesn’t show up at your destination, you’ll know exactly where it is.

10. Use a Carabiner Clip

A carabiner clip on your bag is surprisingly useful for attaching small items like a water bottle or hat, keeping them within easy reach.

With these 10 tips, I hope your next trip is not just an adventure but a stress free one too!

#TravelHacks #PackingTips #SmartTravel #TravelEssentials #TripTips #TravelPrep #SavvyTraveller #OrganisedTravel #TravelLikeAPro #AdventureReady #EffortlessTravel #WanderWisely #PackLikeAPro #GlobetrotterTips #StayCharged

Losing Sight of What Matters in a Bizarre First-World Bubble.

Richard Osman’s We Solve Murders is an absolute delight, blending wit, warmth, and a touch of melancholy to create a murder mystery that’s both entertaining and insightful. Osman’s storytelling isn’t just about solving crimes; it’s about unravelling the complexities of modern life, with characters who feel like old friends and observations that cut to the core of our shared human experience. With humour that’s as sharp as it is empathetic, Osman delivers a narrative that’s equal parts thrilling, thought-provoking, and laugh-out-loud funny. This isn’t just a mystery—it’s a reflection on life’s oddities, its tenderness, and its tragedies, making We Solve Murders a compelling read from start to finish.

Osman brings an astute awareness of the issues older people face, weaving in themes of loneliness, grief, and the everyday challenges of aging with his signature touch of humour and wit. Through Steve’s quiet reflections on love and loss, Osman taps into the profound isolation that can come with getting older, especially in a fast-paced, self-focused world. Steve’s recorded conversations with his deceased wife on his Dictaphone—“otherwise he would just be a man on a bench talking to himself”—capture the humour and subtle sadness of a life where meaningful connection has become rare.

Osman also delves into the choices people make as they age, particularly the shift toward risk aversion. Steve’s decision to avoid the “thrills of life” in favour of the calm predictability of his armchair and his cat, Trouble, is both amusing and poignant. He observes that “you can’t have the thrills of life without the pain of life,” and so chooses to go “quietly,” hinting at the desire for peace over adventure that often accompanies later years.

Richard Osman’s satire also cleverly exposes a troubling aspect of first-world life—how we’ve drifted into a bubble of trivial pursuits and self-importance while much of the world faces far more pressing challenges. Bonnie’s rise as an “influencer” through painting a toilet door, Dubai’s extravagant excess, and the triviality of hiring a “murder-broker” reveal how wealth and security have distorted priorities, creating a society consumed by superficial fame, luxury, and entitlement.

Meanwhile, in many parts of the world, people are navigating poverty, conflict, and survival. The juxtaposition begs the question: where did we go wrong? When trivial pursuits overshadow empathy and awareness, perhaps it’s time for first-world societies to re-evaluate, remembering that prosperity should come with a broader responsibility to the world beyond our borders.

#TrivialPursuits #FirstWorldProblems #LostPriorities #WeSolveMurders #WealthAndResponsibility #RichardOsman #Satire

Discovering Malta through the eyes of Philippe

 

I’ve spent the last six weeks in Europe, soaking in the sights, taking countless photos, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Over the next few months, I’ll be sharing my experiences through blog posts, not just to share with my readers but also to ensure I have a lasting record of what this journey has meant to me. You can find them here

I had the privilege of traveling in small groups in Spain and Italy with a guide, while in Sicily and Malta, I enjoyed private tours. When you spend up to 14 days with the same guide, for me, the experience becomes less about the sites (as impressive as they are) and more about the guides themselves—what drives them, their stories, and their passion for the places they call home.

After spending five days touring Malta with Philippe, a true local, I had the chance to see the country through his insightful and passionate lens. His journey into tourism reflects his love for languages and his desire to connect with people from different cultures.

Philippe’s story starts with a dream to work in tourism, but life had other plans. At 16, he was too young to start the tourist guide course, so he pursued marketing instead. After finishing his master’s degree in Ireland—a chance for him to live abroad and meet new people—he returned to Malta, only to find that marketing wasn’t where his heart lay. When the pandemic hit, he saw it as a chance to reignite his original passion, completing the tourist guide course in 2022. Since then, he has been guiding visitors through Malta, sharing his love for the country’s rich history and stunning architecture.

From guiding in English and Spanish to sharing stories of the medieval city of Mdina, Philippe’s knowledge and enthusiasm bring Malta’s history to life. His favourite place to guide? Mdina, where Malta’s history stretches from the Bronze Age to the 16th century.

Mdina is often called “The Silent City,” a stunningly preserved medieval town that offers a rare glimpse into the island’s layered history. With its winding streets, ancient fortifications, and grand palaces, Mdina stands as a testament to Malta’s past, showcasing influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs, right up to the Knights of St. John. The history of Mdina stretches beyond the 16th century; during the 17th and 18th centuries, the Cathedral and parts of Mdina were rebuilt following the earthquake of 1693. The British also left a mark during the 19th and 20th centuries, adding to its historical richness. The city’s quiet charm and architectural integrity make it a favourite for those who appreciate history, like Philippe, as it captures Malta’s heritage in every stone.

Spending time with Philippe made me appreciate the depth of knowledge that locals like him bring to the table. Every tour, every anecdote was a window into the heart of Malta. His light-hearted banter and incredible knowledge made my time in Malta an unforgettable experience.

#EuropeanAdventure #MaltaMemories #GuidedTours #CulturalTravel #TravelWithLocals #MaltaHistory #TourGuideLife #ExploringEurope #MaltaExperience

 

Finding Meaning in Malta’s Statues of Family and Survival

Going through my photos from Malta, I keep coming back to two statues. They couldn’t be more different, yet both strike a chord deep within me.

One is Les Gavroches in Valletta, a haunting piece by Antonio Sciortino, capturing three street kids, barefoot and ragged, inspired by Hugo’s Les Misérables. These are children left to fend for themselves, lost in a world that barely sees them. They look as if they’re ready to take on whatever life throws at them, together, yet on their own.

Then there’s the fisherman in Marsaxlokk. He’s coming home with the day’s catch, his kids and even the family cat is there, waiting for him like a part of the ritual. Marsaxlokk, with its fishing boats and cat shelters, honours family and tradition.

This statue is rooted in that sense of place, showing us what it means to belong—to know that someone will always be waiting for you.

These two pieces of art are worlds apart, yet both resonate in ways I can’t quite explain. One is about survival and grit; the other, about connection and care. Maybe that’s what keeps pulling me back: the reminder that family can mean different things, but the need for belonging, for resilience, is universal.

#MaltaMoments #LesGavroches #MarsaxlokkMemories #FamilyConnections #ArtThatSpeaks

Meet Alex, the bicultural wanderer with a passion for people.

I interviewed  Alex (who was my guide during my Tauck tour in Spain) in two engaging sessions. With my passion for understanding people’s personal journeys, I delved into how Alex’s unique experiences shaped his views and career choices. Through these conversations, Alex shared not only the influences of his bicultural background but also his reflections on what the future holds.

Alex’s journey from Paris to Florida and back to Europe is one filled with passion, spontaneity, and a love for sharing stories, all while embracing the unknown. He’s the kind of guide who makes every stop memorable, with just enough humour and insight to leave a lasting impression.

When you first meet Alex, you sense there’s something special about him. It’s not just his warm smile or his laid-back demeanour—it’s the way he moves between worlds, effortlessly blending cultures, languages, and stories in a way that makes everyone feel at ease. His journey from Paris to Florida and back to Europe is a testament to his spontaneity, love for people, and hunger for new experiences. But beneath it all, Alex’s story is one of embracing the unknown and finding joy in every connection.

Born to an American mother and a French father, Alex grew up straddling two worlds. “My mom’s American, and my dad’s French,” he says with a grin, effortlessly switching between his French upbringing and American flair. “They met in New York, but my dad convinced her to move to Paris. I’m the oldest of three boys, so we grew up in Paris, but we’d go back to the States every summer. That’s why I eventually chose to go to university in the US—to have my own American experience.”

Alex’s choice to attend Flagler College in Florida was as practical as it was strategic. “It was close to my grandparents and cheaper than most American universities,” he laughs. “But also, I wanted to embrace this American identity everyone in Paris seemed to label me with, despite never having lived there.” But when Alex arrived in Florida, life had other plans. “I was the French guy in Florida,” he says with a chuckle.

While studying business and psychology, Alex stumbled upon his true passion—something that would forever change his life trajectory. “I started working in a French restaurant and saw how food and culture connected people. I got hooked on that feeling,” he recalls. His dreams of becoming the next big Wall Street guy? “Totally scrapped,” he admits, shaking his head. “I saw people in the kitchen working 10-12 hours a day out of pure passion, and I thought, ‘This is crazy,’ but then I fell in love with it. The hardships, the passion—it made sense to me.”

After college, Alex returned to Paris. Unsure of what came next, he found himself brainstorming one day. “I thought, why not give tour guiding a try? I love people, I love Paris, so I started guiding tours. And, well, here I am,” he says with a smile.

For Alex, tour guiding wasn’t just a job—it was an extension of his love for human connection and storytelling. Whether leading a group of study-abroad students through Europe or explaining the deeper meaning behind a Da Vinci painting in the Louvre, Alex quickly realized the power of his work. “At the end of one tour, a group of students came up to me and said I was the best history teacher they’d ever had. That was one of those moments where I thought, ‘This is why I do this.’”

Another memorable experiences as a guide, he told me, also took place in the Louvre. “There’s this Da Vinci painting—one of those pieces that, if you really look at it, it’s powerful beyond words. I was guiding a grandmother, her daughter, and granddaughter. They started crying as I explained it. The cycle of life, generations—everything hit home for them, and I found myself tearing up with them. That’s the magic of art and history. It connects people in ways that nothing else can.”

But Alex’s journey didn’t stop in Paris. Two years ago, he attended a wedding near Madrid, where fate had another surprise in store. “That’s where I met my partner,” Alex says, smiling. “It was a high school friend’, of my now partner’s, wedding. We started a long-distance relationship, and a year later, I moved to Madrid.”

Now based in Madrid with his partner, who works as a consultant, Alex balances life between guiding and embracing new adventures. “In 15 years? Who knows,” he shrugs. “I just want to keep enjoying what I do. If I’m not happy, I’ll find something else.” But one thing is certain: Alex’s love for guiding hasn’t faded. Despite leading similar tours for over 15 years, he keeps each one fresh and exciting. “The off-season is my reset button,” he explains. “I spend that time reading, investigating, and finding new ways to present the same places. There’s always a new angle, a fresh way to tell the story.”

What sets Alex apart is his respect for local culture. Whenever his group arrives in a new city, he hands the reins over to a local guide. “They know their town better than I do, and it’s their story to tell. I trust them to guide my group while I give them the context to work with.” It’s this humility and openness that make Alex’s tours so unique.

When it comes to hidden gems, Alex is all about the food. “For me, it always comes down to the local spots—places where you can get authentic food without the tourist traps,” he says. “In Paris, there’s a small restaurant where the food is fantastic, the wine is plentiful, and you get that gritty, authentic experience. That’s the real Paris for me—the layer beneath the fancy image.”

As we talk about his love for different cultures, Alex offers a fascinating comparison between France and Spain. “The French can be quite serious and proud, very aware of the relationship between the individual and society. In Spain, people are more carefree. There’s this nonchalance, this happiness that makes life flow a little differently.”

He recalls how in France, people are mindful of personal space, moving out of the way as they walk down the street. But in Spain? “People walk right at you!” he laughs. “At first, it frustrated me, but then I realised it’s just a different way of being. You adapt, and it becomes part of the charm.”

Growing up in both French and American cultures has given Alex a unique perspective on identity. “I’ve always felt like a satellite,” he reflects. “I’m always ‘the other.’ In America, I’m French. In France, I’m American. Even in Spain, I’m not quite one of them. But it gives me a certain freedom to roam and see the world from multiple perspectives.”

This bicultural background has fuelled his passion for connecting with others. “Most people don’t think too deeply about their identity. But when you’re constantly navigating between two cultures, it’s something you live with every day. For me, it’s an endless quest, but that’s the beauty of it.”

For Alex, the people he meets on his tours make it all worthwhile. “When I meet fun, good people, it’s like all my efforts are paid back a thousand times. This group we have now? Just amazing. We have such diversity—fascinating backgrounds—and we come together as this little collective. It’s special.”

And that’s what makes Alex’s tours stand out—the stories, the fun facts, but more than anything, the connections. As he says, “If you’re not enjoying it, people notice. That’s the last thing I want—to be the Debbie Downer on my own tour.”

As our conversation winds down, Alex reflects on his future. “I think one day I’d love to be a teacher,” he says thoughtfully. “Teaching is the most important profession in the world. You get to shape young minds, and that’s something I’d love to do.”

He’s not sure when or where that might happen, but for now, he’s happy guiding tours, exploring new places, and embracing the unpredictability of life. “In 15 years? Maybe I’ll still be guiding, maybe I’ll be teaching. Who knows? I just want to keep enjoying what I do.”

As he prepares to leave for lunch, Alex leaves us with a final thought that sums up his philosophy: “It’s all about the people. The places are amazing, but it’s the people that make it all worthwhile.”

#CultureAndConnection #TravelReflections #GuidedByLocals #ExploringEurope #FindingPerspective #JourneyToLearn #WorldOfStories