Urbanista Blog

October's arrival marked a major milestone – turning the big 3-0! And what better way to celebrate than by showering myself and my loved ones with a little indulgence?

First things first, a Middle Eastern-inspired photoshoot right here in Plymouth. Talk about treating myself! It was a chance to embrace my heritage and capture some stunning portraits with a unique theme. Plus, it was just plain fun!

Next up, sharing my love for Dubai with the people who mean the most. I whisked my crew away to Akoya, a London restaurant filled with authentic flavors and vibrant vibes. Think epic Arabic dinner adventure, complete with delicious food, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.

But wait, there's more! To truly transport them to the heart of Dubai, I gifted them each a taste of the city: decadent chocolates, mini oud perfumes for that intoxicating scent, and, of course, sachets of my beloved Karak Chai to take home – pure joy was definitely served!

Now, with a heart full of gratitude, a camera roll full of stunning photos, and a spirit yearning for more adventures, I can't wait to see what unfolds in the next chapter.

So, let the journey continue.

Posted By Urbanista ( Azza Gasim)
Follow me on Twitter/Instagram (@azza_urbanista)

A recent trip to Geneva with my cousin and friends wasn't just sightseeing - it was a journey through time! We recreated photos from my childhood, and it was fascinating to see how things felt different now.

Remember that enormous Flower Clock? It's now a charming garden centerpiece. The National Monument, once a looming giant, is now a friendly landmark. Perspective definitely shifts!

The UN headquarters, once a mysterious castle, now holds even more weight as a symbol of global efforts. And the Broken Chair sculpture, a powerful reminder of the fight for justice, resonated deeper as an adult.

Of course, no Geneva trip is complete without the iconic Water Fountain. As a kid, I swear that jet reached the clouds! While it's not quite as cloud-piercing anymore, its power and beauty remain undeniable.

Recreating those old photos was a surreal experience. It reminded me how much perspective changes, how things shrink or grow depending on your life stage. But the core memories - the joy, the wonder - those stay with you forever.

Geneva, you brought back the feels and showed me how far I've come. Now, I'm excited to see what 2024 has in store! What adventures await? Where will the next memory-making journey take me?