How to Master Shoshin: The Art of Embracing a Beginner’s Mind | Art of Saudade

Have you ever tried to approach a task with the mindset of a total beginner, even if you were an expert in the field? While it may seem easy to adopt a beginner’s mind and approach new challenges with a fresh perspective, the reality can be far more challenging. So, why is Shoshin such a powerful and fruitful philosophy of life? By embracing this mindset, … Continue reading How to Master Shoshin: The Art of Embracing a Beginner’s Mind | Art of Saudade

Carnaval Around the World: From Portugal to Rio and Beyond | Art of Saudade

Carnaval, a time of lively celebrations and colorful parades, has become a worldwide event, celebrated by people of all ages and cultures. But where did this festive occasion originate, and how has it evolved over time?  From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the charming towns of Portugal, Carnaval brings people together. So, what does the word “Carnival” mean? Carnival, or “Carnaval” is … Continue reading Carnaval Around the World: From Portugal to Rio and Beyond | Art of Saudade

Beyond the Selfie Stick: How Voluntourism Can Help You Connect with the World

Imagine embarking on a journey to another country where the sun-kissed skies and enchanting landscapes mesmerize you at every turn. Now, picture yourself lending a helping hand to the locals and making a real difference in their lives. That’s the beauty of voluntourism – the perfect blend of adventure, self-discovery, and social responsibility. This is where it all started. Portugal has been on my bucket … Continue reading Beyond the Selfie Stick: How Voluntourism Can Help You Connect with the World

The French Connection: My Guide to Studying and Living in France | Art of Saudade

France has always been a popular destination for students looking to study abroad. With its world-renowned universities and cultural attractions, it’s no wonder why so many students choose to make this beautiful country their home. When it comes to education, France boasts some of the finest universities in the world, including the famous Sorbonne University in Paris and Sciences Po in Lyon. These institutions offer … Continue reading The French Connection: My Guide to Studying and Living in France | Art of Saudade

A Journey Through Time: Exploring Coimbra’s Rich History and Culture | Art of Saudade

From the picturesque streets lined with traditional Portuguese architecture to the rich history embedded within its walls, Coimbra is a city filled with charm and unique culture. With its large student population, this city located in the north of Portugal is a lively and youthful place, with a thriving nightlife and a diverse cultural scene. According to locals though, Coimbra gets quite empty in August, … Continue reading A Journey Through Time: Exploring Coimbra’s Rich History and Culture | Art of Saudade

Exploring the Enchanted Forests of the Balkans: A Hiking Adventure for Fiction Writers | Kamenjane waterfalls | Art of Saudade

The forest is the perfect place to escape everyday life’s noise and distractions and focus on your thoughts and emotions. The sights, sounds, and smells of the forest provide a sense of tranquility, peace, and isolation, which is a great way to reconnect with nature, unwind and de-stress. Kamenjane is a village located in the Shar Mountains, among the highest mountains in the Balkans. The … Continue reading Exploring the Enchanted Forests of the Balkans: A Hiking Adventure for Fiction Writers | Kamenjane waterfalls | Art of Saudade

Jorge Luis Borges on Life and Regrets | Art of Saudade

“Any life, however long and complicated it may be, actually consists of a single moment — the moment when a man knows forevermore who he is.” –Jorge Luis Borges Only 20th-century writer Jorge Luis Borges could poetically express the essence of life without using any poetry. During his childhood, he had everything to become one of the best storytellers in the world: his mother often … Continue reading Jorge Luis Borges on Life and Regrets | Art of Saudade

The Art of Writing an Entire Novel Without The Letter E | Georges Perec | Art of Saudade

Can you make a sentence without using the letter E? It may seem a bit hard, but not impossible. How about a 500 characters text? It’s getting more complicated, right? Now try to write a 500 pages novel without one of the most commonly used letters in the alphabet (at least in most of the European languages). Well, this is what the French author Georges … Continue reading The Art of Writing an Entire Novel Without The Letter E | Georges Perec | Art of Saudade

Unveiling The Architectural Marvels Of The Colorful Mosque in Macedonia | Gallery | Art of Saudade

A little bit of history… 1438. The Ottomans in one small city in Macedonia decide to defy convention and create a colorful mosque. In the 15th century, during the classical Ottoman period, mosques were built in the most minimalistic way possible. No colors, no pictures, and very few symbols. Mosques were usually constructed by sultans (Ottoman monarchs) or pashas (local governors). The Šarena Džamija (Colorful … Continue reading Unveiling The Architectural Marvels Of The Colorful Mosque in Macedonia | Gallery | Art of Saudade

Best Things To Do In Montpellier, France | The Perfect 3-Day Trip | Art of Saudade

Montpellier is one of the cities you must see once you are in the south of France. This place has everything: whether you’re interested in culture, history, street art, local and international cuisine, nature, sports, or beaches, this vibrant city will find its way to attract and impress you! Check out why Montpellier’s street art is so special: Day 1 – The Culture Day Musée … Continue reading Best Things To Do In Montpellier, France | The Perfect 3-Day Trip | Art of Saudade