Sun, Sea and something to say…

I feel as if currently, I am the winner in the lottery of life, in this fabulous, crazy part of the world. It is as far removed from the cold, austere north of Scotland as is possible. There a day out at the seaside involved carloads of anoraks, windbreakers, thermos flasks of hot soup and enough jumpers to kit a polar expedition. Here on the Riviera, the novelty of waking up in sunshine and going to bed at night still warm and minus extra clothing layers is a huge attraction.

I have been in the South of France for just under a year and I am in love… with the sights, the sounds, the smells and most of all the sea. But it has come at a compromise; I have left a familiar place, language, friends, career and many of my defining characteristics behind. I have had to re-invent myself… and I’m sure I’m not the only one.

For as many women who find southern France and Italy the place they always dreamed of, there are as many who find the Riviera an alien landscape, unfriendly and incomprehensible. Through circumstance, they find themselves alone, unsure of their role and adrift as to how to make friends and ask for help. It is as if they’ve landed in paradise, but it’s flawed and don’t know how to fit in. What should be a celebration turns into a nightmare.

The Riviera Woman came to my rescue months ago when I was a new girl here and I am so honoured, delighted and humbled to now take an active part in this new online magazine. Over the past few months, I have learned first hand of the power of women, they are chameleons conquering worlds. Inspirational is too small a word to cover the women I’ve met and who we hope to feature here so that we can all learn from their experiences, gain inspiration and have fun.

The Riviera Woman is a joyous celebration of women…of me… of you...Tag: coeditor Articles by The Riviera Woman Random Home Contact