Hello my dear readers,
Well, well, another month flew by and—bam!—December has arrived, bringing Christmas right around the corner. Can you believe it? This month was unusually calm for us…for the first time in over six months, we didn’t jet off anywhere!
Instead, we played host to some friends, which meant I got to have a little fun in the kitchen. Whipped up some easy recipes: almond flour and coconut cake, a savory potato pie filled with minced meat and mushrooms, cinnamon rolls to make our mornings a bit sweeter and threw together some “placinte la tigaie” with ham and cheese—honestly, I have no clue what to call these in English, but let’s just say they were cheesy, and hammy. They’re kind of like pita bread’s fun-loving cousin—just a bit more indulgent, packed with melty cheese and savory ham, and pan-fried to perfection. Think of them as the ultimate comfort food with a Romanian twist!




November marks the beginning of the high season in Phuket, bringing beautiful sunny days and a calm, nearly flat sea in stunning shades of blue. Tourists start flocking in, but Kamala, thankfully, remains a peaceful haven compared to bustling areas like Patong or Bang Tao. We’ve been able to enjoy the sea with a bit more tranquility here.
On our morning beach walks, we’ve had some company these days: a bunch of busy crabs! They’re scuttling all over the sand, digging impressive holes and leaving little trails. If you zoom in on some of the photos below, you might catch a few of these tiny sand architects in action. It’s surprisingly entertaining to watch them at work!












November is also my birthday month, and my husband made it extra special with a surprise dinner at the best Italian restaurant in Phuket. And let me tell you, it absolutely delivered! From start to finish, we were treated to an incredible dining experience, complete with mouthwatering dishes and perfectly paired Italian wines. It was a night filled with amazing flavors, laughter, and memories that made turning another year older feel pretty fabulous.






In November, we also hit the greens and enjoyed a lovely day of golf at one of Phuket’s picturesque courses. The sun was shining, the fairways were calling, and it was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the island’s beautiful surroundings.

Strangely, this month we did not travel, but we enjoyed a staycation at the Anantara Vacation Club in Mai Khao Phuket that was nothing short of spectacular. Invited to preview this luxurious resort, we seized the opportunity to experience it at a fraction of the usual cost. The resort’s reputation for opulence is well-earned, and we were excited to immerse ourselves in its offerings. Adding to the magic of the stay, it was also my birthday, and the staff made the occasion extra special by decorating our bed with an elegant “Happy Birthday” message. Such a warm and thoughtful gesture set the tone for what became an unforgettable experience.
We stayed in a stunning pool villa that offered ultimate privacy and comfort, allowing us to unwind and relax in style. The villa was impeccably designed, with modern amenities and luxurious touches, making it feel like a serene escape from reality. During our stay, we indulged in delicious food and refreshing drinks, which further enhanced the sense of luxury. The beach at Mai Khao was equally breathtaking, with its crystal-clear waters and soft sands offering a perfect spot for a tranquil stroll. From the resort’s attentive service to the natural beauty of its surroundings, our time at Anantara Vacation Club was truly memorable, leaving us with cherished memories of relaxation, celebration, and luxury.












As part of our Anantara Vacation Club package, we received tickets to Carnival Magic in Phuket, a vibrant Thai cultural carnival park that celebrates the country’s rich heritage through dazzling performances and attractions.
The evening was truly spectacular, with colorful lights illuminating the park and a magical show that offered a glimpse into Thailand’s history. One highlight was the Bird of Paradise Buffet Restaurant, where we dined amidst an opulent setting. The adjacent restroom, known as the “Fountain of Youth,” was so lavishly adorned that I couldn’t resist taking a photo—it was unlike anything I’d ever seen.
Overall, it was a magical night that left us in awe of the creativity and grandeur on display.










This was my November—a truly beautiful month as I celebrated my birthday. I baked, we hosted friends, enjoyed amazing food and drinks, experienced new adventures, explored new sights, embraced nature, indulged in luxury, worked hard, and found time to relax. Now, I’m ready for December! With friends coming over to celebrate Christmas and New Year together, I’m excited for all the fun and festive moments ahead.
How was your month? What did you get up to? Did you take a moment to appreciate the little joys that each day has to offer?
Bye for now,




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