Life Philosophy

  • Solo Dating

    Solo Dating

    Friday night in January, and I am meeting a friend in the local pub.The pub is pleasantly full; it is great to see so many people who did not give in to the dry January propaganda and chose to socialise and support struggling British pubs. We are talking about dating, or rather, how to find…

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  • On unconditional love and a bit of poetry.

    On unconditional love and a bit of poetry.

    “I shall always love you”, I said He was surprised; he did not expect this “I love you also”, he said The thing is, nothing ever happened between us other than a powerful connection that felt like a soul-level bond. We can talk seriously and laugh for hours. I learnt so much from this man.…

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  • On changing the January mindset

    On changing the January mindset

    Traditionally, January is not an easy month – winter blues start kicking in, and I crave sun and light, remembering summer holidays and spending more time inside than usual. But this year, I am trying to change my mindset. Especially with yesterday’s first full moon of the year, it is an excellent time to let…

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  • Christmas Day Pyjamas

    Christmas Day Pyjamas

    December brings the most dreaded question after “Are you travelling solo?”And the question is, “What are you doing for Christmas?”And, my dear reader, I have a confession to make.I mostly do not answer this question truthfully. I prefer to spend Christmas Day alone. That may be why Home Alone is one of my favourite movies…

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  • On a vintage home style

    On a vintage home style

    “What do you like most about your furniture business, and how did you get into this?” I was seriously curious to learn. “I love the history of an item and what story it could tell. Sharing my passion helps you see the value in vintage pieces and feel inspired to find your own stories in…

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  • On Poetry and Unexpected Gifts

    On Poetry and Unexpected Gifts

    Sunday morning in Covent Garden Square was alive with its usual energy—street performers calling out, musicians tuning up, and the hum of shoppers drifting through the air. Amid the bustle, a young man sat behind a vintage typewriter, its retro keys clacking like something from another era. “What would you like me to write about?”…

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  • “No man is a failure if he has friends”.

    “No man is a failure if he has friends”.

    It was May this year when I had a call from my friend Tanya. “Please do not shout at me, but I have to tell you something. I know you decided not to pursue home buying after your last unpleasant experience, and you hate the whole home searching process. I’ve been doing it secretly for…

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  • john Cooper Clarke and Yana about Yana

    john Cooper Clarke and Yana about Yana

    Imagine my nerves as I stood before John Cooper Clarke, my hero, ready to hand him a book for signing. It was a moment I’ll never forget. “What is your name?” he asked.“Yana,” I replied.“What a beautiful name,” he said. “Do you know that there was a very famous model and singer by the same…

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  • Solo Travelling to Bulgaria and Meaningful Connections

    Solo Travelling to Bulgaria and Meaningful Connections

    I was sitting in the café in Nessebar, Bulgaria, watching as an older gentleman across the square sold works of art.I was mesmerised. It was clear the man was keen to sell, but there was more to him. He had so much passion, yet also integrity.I noticed a painting with lilac purple flowers and came…

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  • If you were to be a painting, which painting would you be?

    If you were to be a painting, which painting would you be?

    Discovering this quote was like uncovering a hidden gem! It resonated with me and sparked a deep, meaningful connection that truly inspired me: “I am an artist at living – my work of art is my life” by Suzuki, a Japanese philosopher and scholar of Zen Buddhism. I was thinking about my life, all the…

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I’m Yana De Lilac

Welcome to the Walking in My Shoes site. Here I will share with you what inspires me: from luxury cruise ship holidays to culinary experiences and things to do in Southampton. Let me be your guide through the jungle of sights and activities, sharing hands-on tips on solo travelling. This is a non-commercial blog based entirely on my real personal experience. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Happy reading! 

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Video filmed to the Walking in My Shoes -Depeche Mode