The airport bathroom stall says it all.

One week in the self-proclaimed Pearl of the Adriatic and I feel rested and recharged.

My trip was replete with self-reflection and I’m ready to return to real life with new perspective.

I decided I’m going to chronicle the trip from the last night to the first, like the backwards Seinfeld episode (although there’s no Pinter, nose-piercing or schnapps stories). Because I think the trip is better told that way.

It may make sense and it may not, but at least there will be stories and pretty pictures to look at.

My main take-aways from the trip that I want to remind myself of in the midst of the usual grind:

1. Go offline: a digital disconnect does wonders for mental clarity, and lets you actually experience your senses and surroundings.
2. Be more aware of smells, colors, and nature (see #1).
3. No makeup, nail polish or frills: all ok every now and then.
4. Go with the flow: rules and structure don’t apply all the time.
5. Be sure to factor in a mid-day glass of wine and nap (and if this isn’t possible, at least take a mid-day pause).