Lost in Lisbon’s Words: A Journey Inspired by Fernando Pessoa | Art of Saudade

The enigmatic presence of Fernando Pessoa continues to guide us through Lisbon’s labyrinthine and poetic streets. Before embarking on my journey to the magnificent Portuguese capital, I made sure to read this poet’s masterpiece, a guidebook called “Lisbon – What the Tourist Should See”. By following his footsteps, I could delve deeper into the very same streets that inspired his exquisite verses, and experience the … Continue reading Lost in Lisbon’s Words: A Journey Inspired by Fernando Pessoa | Art of Saudade

Rainy Days in The City of Light: A Photo Journey | Paris Photography | Art of Saudade

When I planned my trip to Paris in April, I expected to find the city of love in full bloom with sunny skies. However, when I arrived, I was greeted with a different reality: rain and fog. As I traveled from Montpellier, the south of France, I was not prepared for the drastic difference in weather between the two regions. I realized that France is … Continue reading Rainy Days in The City of Light: A Photo Journey | Paris Photography | Art of Saudade

Overcoming Post-Erasmus Depression: Tips for Embracing Life After Studying Abroad | Art of Saudade

As the world becomes more connected, it’s easier than ever to travel and experience new cultures. For students, programs like Erasmus offer a unique opportunity to live and study in a foreign country, gaining new perspectives and creating lifelong memories.  But what happens when the program ends and you have to return home? Many students experience what’s known as Post-Erasmus Depression, a sense of loss … Continue reading Overcoming Post-Erasmus Depression: Tips for Embracing Life After Studying Abroad | Art of Saudade

Moving through Space and Time: Georges Perec’s Insights on Moving | Art of Saudade

Moving is one of the most profound human experiences, a transformative journey that challenges us to embrace the unknown. It is a change of space, of place, of life. This outlook is echoed by French writer Georges Perec, who reflected on the many facets of space, including the experience of moving in his essay Species of Spaces. “The art of living is the art of … Continue reading Moving through Space and Time: Georges Perec’s Insights on Moving | Art of Saudade

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

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