Embracing the Morning Sunshine in Europe
Divia Thani reflects on sun-soaked mornings and long afternoons in Europe, surrounded by those she loves. Starting the day in a villa offers a unique blend of relaxation and connection with loved ones.
Waking Up to Beauty
My favorite part of a villa holiday is waking up and observing how everyone else awakens. As an early riser, I relish solitude in the mornings, lying in crisp white sheets for a couple of hours, savoring the view with a cup of coffee while reading the news. I never draw the curtains shut, allowing the soft morning light to fill the room. The way sunlight stretches over the bed feels magnificently luxurious, and I truly bask in it. Once the sun hits my eyes, I head downstairs to the poolside.
Morning Rituals and Coffee
Generally, my boyfriend has already been by the pool for hours, soaking up the sun. Each summer, we enjoy a villa holiday with his family, and over time, I have come to recognize the delightful patterns of our mornings. His cousins and aunts wake at dawn, all heading eagerly into the kitchen, where one enthusiastic soul volunteers to make masala chai for everyone. Brewing it from scratch is a meticulous process, allowing everyone to enjoy it their way, which adds an element of charm to our morning ritual.
The villa chef skillfully navigates multiple requests while preparing platters of fresh fruit. The oranges in Spain are always a hit; in Greece, strawberries with feta are a favorite; Thailand spoils us with dragon fruit and mangosteen; and in Italy, everything is dipped into luscious pistachio paste. The eggs, made to order with chopped green chilies and topped with hot sauce, add a flavorful kick to our breakfast.
The Joy of Sharing
As the younger cousins, nephews, and nieces wake closer to noon, they often prefer coffee. However, their requests for more eggs frequently interrupt the chef, who remains cheerful despite the challenges. The delightful taste of food is always celebrated, particularly the fabulous coffee in Europe. At noon, the idea of popping champagne arises, and amid some mild protests, many bottles are uncorked. We toast the chef, who agrees to serve a late lunch at 2 PM. Everyone gathers around the table, chatting and sipping rosé while still in our pajamas.
Throughout these mornings, there are shared stories and playful chaos—a book unintentionally falling into the pool, someone trying to make dinner reservations at the last minute, and sunglasses frequently going missing (yes, often that’s me). Each morning holds the same delightful rhythm, creating a sense of intimacy and satisfaction.
Creating Memorable Moments
In conclusion, experiencing villa holidays in beautiful locations brings forth opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones. Therefore, savor each breakfast, cherish these moments, and embrace the connections formed amidst the sunny mornings.
