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A diary excerpt from an urban explorer
Sunday morning, 7.00 am.
The sun trickles through the cracks in the bedroom blinds, but I’ve promised myself less snoozing, more up-and-at-’em-ing.
I check my calendar on my phone. No entries today.
The whole day stretches before me and I dream of the possibilities.
A drive down the coast, a train ride to the closest national park for a hike, a SUP at the beach … all far-away adventures; each at least an hour or more to get to.
The joys of urban dwelling, eh?
The thought of exploring what’s immediately around me never seems to cross my mind. Not usually, anyway.
But then I remember that it’s the last Sunday of the month, which means my local markets are up and running.
So, I make a coffee to-go, grab the dog and my sunnies and head out the door.
As I walk, I can't help but notice the little details of my neighbourhood that usually go unnoticed in the weekday rush - the way the morning light hits the old graffitied buildings, the intricate patterns of the ironwork on the balconies, all the different flowers in bloom.
I notice a cute knick-knack shop for the first time, a bakery selling fresh gluten-free bread (so rare), a small dance studio offering beginners salsa classes on Tuesday nights, and a tiny second-hand bookstore nestled between two larger buildings, its shelves overflowing.
I find a new park to let the dog run loose, and a hole-in-the-wall cafe painted bright pink with the smiliest of baristas and the yummiest looking chocolate slices.
I stop and make small-talk with a friendly older woman sweeping her front yard. She asks if I want some lemons from her tree (yes! please!).
I walk past an indoor rock climbing gym, a hot yoga studio, and a small outdoor 25m swimming pool.
I make it to the markets, and then I return home, feeling like I’ve been on a wonderful adventure. But in truth, I’ve walked fewer than 10km in less than 2 hours.
In return, I've gained a new appreciation for my local neighbourhood, realising that ‘exploring’ doesn't always mean hopping in the car, on a train, or catching a flight.
Sometimes the loveliest adventures happen in your own backyard.
Just some food for thought.
Nakie HQ
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