If there is one reason why I will solely go to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, it would be for the TWG Tea Salon at the newly opened Yas Mall. You must have seen their Dubai Mall branch in one of my posts here I'm a frequent visitor and their tea salon in Abu Dhabi is always fully stocked. They even had the Milk Oolong Tea exclusively sold here which costs AED 70 per 50g. So yes, I don't mind driving for an hour and a half just so I can purchase my tea of choice.

Since it's Throw back Thursday, here is a sneak peak of a life in France in the summer. During a leisurely walk, the interesting texture of this wall captures one's attention. The play of various materials with a contrasting wooden shutter result to a recently renovated charming house in the french countryside.

"Let your dreams be bigger than your fears, your actions louder than your words, and faith stronger than your feelings. " Dreams of the future keep us going.  

This is my first post for 2015.  I spent the year end and the beginning of the year doing inventory of items we want to keep and sell.  It was difficult, liberating and nostalgic. Difficult, because each furniture has a story to tell. Each of these black and white photo frames has my personal shots of specific destinations that mean something to us. They are usually conversation starters with guests and each time I look at them, they make me smile.  

The above dining furniture, we are taking with us.  The photo frames, we plan to sell soon as well as my paintings.  The below furniture will go as well as the rest of our appliances.  So what will you be expecting from Travel Gourmande this year?

Happy New Year!  As I type this post, I'm enjoying a cheese platter with Ardenian Salami by myself. Yes, on my own. Dim lit living room with French music drifting in the air. My husband and baby are both sick and in bed already. Now that I'm off the nurse duty, I dressed up, poured myself a glass of wine and enjoying delicious cheese as we speak.

I found this quote on Pinterest and tweaked it. This is an image of our community fountain. I won't let tonight pass without sharing these goals here. Wishing you all an adventurous, inspiring, bountiful, prosperous, successful, healthy, peaceful and joyful 2015!

I raise my glass to you! Santé!

Bonne année!

Love & light,

Arni