Embassy Festival, The Hague

On September 7th, 2024 the 12th edition of the annual Embassy festival took place in The Hague. Out of all cultural and music festivals, Embassy Festival is definitely one of my favorites! It's a celebration of global culture, showcasing live music, traditional dances, folk costumes, delicious food, drinks and more. 

In 2024 there were 47 countries who participated (out of 195 countries that are recognized by the United Nations). That's less than 25 percent, so there is still room for growth. I have to be honest, I missed Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Italy, Spain.... of course everyone has their personal favorites.

One of the countries that I visit every single time is Mexico, with mouthwatering food by KUA Mexican Kitchen. Their streetstyle tacos are amazing (causing long lines). In case you want to experience KUA yourself, check out my previous blog: KUA Mexican Kitchen.

I could be wrong, but it seems the number of visitors grows every year! I thought it was incredible how many people turned up... most of them well-dressed in national costumes.

At three o'clock there was the Culture Parade, which is something you should not miss. Watching the participants from all different countries in national dress is something special! Embassy Festival, thank you very much for a very nice time & see you next year!

Want to read more about the Embassy festival? Please continue here:
https://tarasdolcevita.blogspot.com/2018/08/embassy-festival.html

Umbria Jazz 24

Umbria Jazz 24 has come to an end.... While I'm sad it's over, I am so happy and grateful I was there!!! It was a wonderful edition with many amazing concerts!! Raye, Lenny Kravitz, Toto, Nile Rodgers and Chic, Chucho Valdes, Roberto Fonseca, Pacific Mambo Orchestra, Hiromi, Christian Sands, Charles Lloyd, Ray Gelato, Funk Off, Accordi Disaccordi.... it just went on and on!!! 

I had lots of fun with my friends, had so many delicious meals (at Ristorante La Taverna, winebar la Bottega del Vino, Da Cesarino, Pasticceria Sandri), many aperitivi at the festival bar down at the Arena Santa Giuliana, met lovely new people, spent all my money at Perugia's finest stores (including Forma)...! All I can say is... next year you must pay the Umbria Jazz festival a visit!

For more information: Umbria Jazz

Want to see more of Umbria Jazz? Check out my previous blogs:
https://tarasdolcevita.blogspot.com/2023/10/umbria-jazz-50th-anniversary.html
https://tarasdolcevita.blogspot.com/2020/07/ode-to-umbria-jazz.html

Spring Vibes 2024

Spring 2024... it's not exactly a spring to remember.... the weather has been extremely cold and dreary! I have had enough of all this rain... However, there were a few moments that were sunny and I enjoyed every minute.

Spring 2024 is almost coming to an end and that's for the best I guess. Let the summer return and bring back the sun! We've all been waiting for it (especially here in The Netherlands).

Tropical print shirt by Zara
Pillows and vases by Walter & Roland, Laren
Giant sunglasses on the beach of Scheveningen
Handbag by Mercedes Salazar
Turquoise plate by Ceramica Artistica Solimene

Photos taken in The Hague and Laren (Noord-Holland), The Netherlands.