Surrounded by picture-perfect vineyards and ancient olive groves in Spain's Cava wine country, I'm feeling a familiar mixture of joy and… jet lag.
This wine region, which has been a major wine producer since at least the 7th Century B.C., is found in Southern Catalonia in the Penedes region just a short drive from Barcelona.
We arrived from San Francisco nearly two weeks ago and I'm still not shaking the jet lag.
After almost two decades of nearly full time travel, I've learned to accept my body's sensitivity to time zone changes. Tonight, I succumbed to an early slumber at 6pm and woke up five hours later. So, here I am, wide awake. At midnight.
Naturally, I take my laptop and start writing this Gastronomad Journal because. It's what one does at midnight, caught between today and yesterday.
I've experimented over the years with various remedies and practical approaches to fighting jet lag, without success. Now, I've adopted a more relaxed, natural approach and just try to go with the flow. I try allowing my body to gradually adjust to the new time zone at its own pace. I'm hopeful that my internal clock will synchronize with the new local rhythm before our next Experience (which isn't here, but in Italy — the upcoming Prosecco Hills & Venice Gastronomad Experience).
I spent Mother's Day in Sitges, away from my kids again, and as it's become an unwelcome recurrence. I can't remember the last time I got to be with my kids on Mother's Day. It's one of the many tradeoffs our lifestyle demands. I found myself shedding some tears, reminiscing about my sons when they were little (you may have seen my Instagram post if you follow my personal profile). I also cried because I miss my mom and Mike's mom, both of whom are gone now but whom I love dearly.
Despite my sadness, I tried to embrace the weekend to the fullest. We enjoyed brunch amidst vineyards in the cava wine country. We indulged in a serene sail on the calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea as the sun was setting. We savored a delightful beachside dinner. Afterwards, we strolled back to the apartment where I had another sleepless night and Mike stayed up doing the TWiT podcast hosted by our dear friend, Leo Laporte.
Missing the people I love is a bittersweet experience. It reminds me of the depth of our relationships and the incredible bond we all share. It is a testament to the strength of our global community and the power of love to bring us together, even when we are physically apart.
While holidays are the hardest times to be away from family, I still felt loved on Mother's Day as I received many messages and calls from my beloved kids, family and dear friends. I was reminded of the closeness we can share with those we love across the globe, transcending physical distance and international borders.
We're here preparing a very special Barcelona & Cava Wine Country Gastronomad Experience taking place this September. As always, we have all kinds of new and epic wine and culinary adventures in store for our lovely guests (each and every Gastronomad Experience is unique and bespoke).
While I can't give away the secret surprises, let's just say that our guests are in for a wonderful treat during the grape harvest season, including a visit to a cellar that goes back 1,000 years. The rich history and charm of the region continue to captive and inspire us.
The profound beauty of the world and the creativity of our talented friends across the globe serve as constant sources of wonder and inspiration, enriching our journey with each new encounter and serendipitous discovery. Even when I can’t sleep.
Joy and adventure,
Amira
