Life Philosophy

  • 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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  • Umbrella and random act of kindness

    Umbrella and random act of kindness

    I was walking home after work. It started raining heavily. There was nowhere to hide, and I was soaked.The car stopped, and a man came out.“Take this”, he said, giving me an umbrella. “I am sorry I can’t give you a lift in the car as I am on the way to my work shift

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  • The Universe knows what you need

    The Universe knows what you need

    I got a taxi from Havant train station. The driver did not look very happy.“To the island, please” (meaning Hayling Island, which is 15 minutes away), I said.“To the Isle of Wight?” he said sarcastically with a straight face.I told him that for somebody looking so grumpy, he has a great sense of humour. After

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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! 

Have any questions or thoughts to share? Let’s Connect! Your input is valuable to me. 
What would you like me to write about? Please share with me the topics that interest you most! 

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Video filmed to the Walking in My Shoes -Depeche Mode