Dharshi


Natural golden light on beautiful Dharshi.



Portrait session: Tania - Sweden.


Oh Hello!

I am so excited to share with you this portrait session of my lovely cousin Tania in her home country Sweden (lucky girl). Wayne and I still talk about moving there like it's really going to happen (and it won't ever) but we still like to dream about it.

The ever so hilarious Tania who is incredibly intelligent with a glowing musical talent, an amazing taste in fashion and the ability to speak a bazillion languages. It's no wonder we get along (he he). Pretty sure if Tania was in Melbourne I'd have my camera in her face all the time. I'm trying to convince her to visit us here.

I don't know if this relates to my Middle Eastern heritage but there is a sense of priority when it comes to extended family in my life. It's really important for me to try and keep in touch with all of my aunties, uncles and of course cousins. Sadly we are all living in different countries so it can be really difficult especially when we miss important milestones.

My cousins are scattered across New Zealand, USA, and Sweden. I have yet to meet my USA cousins, haven't seen them in over 20 years. USA will definitely be our next destination.

I get to see Tania roughly every 6 years. I first met her when she was about 6 and every time she's different so of course each visit is amazing. Our Dads are brothers, a very special connection as both of our dads are quite similar. It's the most surreal feeling to see their similarities unfold. It's something I see rarely so I soak up every moment with a few chuckles here and there.

I'm so glad I had the opportunity to do this session and I hope we can do it every time we see each other - these memories are so precious.

xo
Farrah




Vienna snaps - Part 1


Hello friends!

Over the next few months I will be sharing with you a few images and experiences from our travel adventures. First up is Vienna!

We arrived in Vienna early morning with our first stop over at Europcar to pick up our rented car. I threw my husband in the deep end with never being overseas (New Zealand doesn't count) making him drive on the wrong side of the road on his first day. I knew it was going to be memorable! we were both so nervous, Wayne doing a few laps around the car park while I fumble over the maps. It was the best decision for us, we are the perfect match for road-tripping. My husband has the best temper for driving in stressful conditions, and I am a GPS (more or less). Yes I did just call myself a GPS. If you can read signs, and you generally know which direction you're heading - you really can't get lost.

Since we're on the topic of driving, I'll give you a little brief about it. We liked having a car for comfort and being able to leave and stay whenever we wanted. For two weeks of driving it cost us around 800 euros including petrol. When it came to accommodation, which many people may see it as a negative, we had limited to choose from with free parking. But it all seemed to work out perfect for us, most of the hotels were located 10-20 minutes from the center and close to a metro station. But this also meant less touristy and more local culture. Win!

Back to Vienna.

It is undoubtedly an amazing city to visit - but you really only need a maximum of 3 days to see it well. Many white and symmetrical buildings which I found it to be unique when compared to the rest of Europe. There are interesting laneways, cafe's, and there's definitely a fun multicultural feel to the city. It reminded me of Melbourne a little.
Getting around Vienna is easy with the Metro to all the main attractions. We walked around a lot though - which I would have done less of if we weren't eating so much :)

Must do's:
- Schonbrunn Palace with the Audio Guide if you're a history buff like us.
- Imperial Palace (see below image)
- Laneway walks and Viennese coffees
- Stephansplatz (for Cathedral and main shopping - very touristic area)
- Eat Pork Schnitzel (of course)
- Night Market with a big pork leg (yeah we are fatties) with mustard and bread.
- Classical music concert (we went to this one)
- Museum Quarter

Below images from walking around in the main town, Imperial Palace and a few of the laneways.

Stay tuned for Part 2 :)

x Farrah