You might be surprised to learn about one particular flip side of Firenze. Different to what many people would think, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, this open-air museum where realness, visual arts and aesthetic beauty mesmerize our senses has, sadly, little shady zones where personal belongings – specifically related to means of transport – are an easy target.

Do I miss Amsterdam? I have been asking myself this question. I would dare to say no but it’s too painful to admit it let alone feel it (or should I say not feel at all?).

Is a friendship measurable? I have a theory. If you ever lost a truly beloved one try to remember the ones that attended the funeral service. When my mother passed away, not only did I count on my better half’s unconditional support (which I cannot live without) along with his wonderful family but also on friends who wouldn't be anywhere else but there, by my side.

Have you ever heard a song that reminds you of something that you’ve never experienced before? A song that makes your thoughts travel through someone else’s past? Even though it’s hard to explain such an odd feeling, this is exactly how I feel whenever I listen to the former and extraordinary French singer, Charles Aznavour.

"If you want things to get done in the Netherlands, you have to push, push and push hard!". The words of that Dutchman still resonate in my head. For the first time I understood that things are not easy peasy in this country as I romanticized for so long.

I've been thinking a lot about people's choice of to be or not to be vaccinated. In a very short period of time I've come across some mind sets which are so opposed to each other that I can't help but fear for humanity's future.

After two weeks submerged in a story about the current terrible condition of bridges and quay walls in Amsterdam that I was commissioned to write for a distinguished magazine, I finally find respite and come back to firm soil. For days and nights this was all I could think, write and dream about. Such a time-consuming story that, once it was done, I felt empty.

I don't recall the last time I went without drinking coffee. In fact, I cannot even remember when I would just wake up and function properly without a caffeine boost. It's Thursday afternoon and all I can think about is how I'll make it through the day. Has my entire routine been shaped to rely upon that black stimulant?