Nika

10 things about me

1. Proud mama of Julieta, 19 – the catalyst for me leaving London, going self-employed, and building a portfolio career.
2. RA warrior and gluten-free. Bit of a challenge as I love my carbs (and all things Italy!). I recommend Seggiano, named after the village where it all started.
3. I was born in Mansfield – the chief town of Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood’s stomping ground. Also famous for its Bitter and mining heritage – we supplied the stone used to build the Houses of Parliament.
4. Mum says I was like Houdini as a nipper, constantly trying to escape the cot–bed–cubicle (I’ve never grown out of that!).
5. I’ll be raving till the grave. Music, dancing, coming together = collective joy. Renaissance opened in Mansfield in 1992 and people would travel for miles for the music.
6. I did my first big solo trip in 1999. Wwoofed my way round the world, staying on farms and retreats, which led to my first travel writing gig on Australia in Your Backpack. Just me, my camera and guidebooks.
7. I’m a big fan of Vipassana silent retreats (I’ve done two). They’re life-changing experiences – get out of your own way!
8. I worked as a researcher for a private investigator in London and am obsessed with detective dramas – Strike, Mindhunter, Dragon Tattoo, Line of Duty, Frauds, Sherwood, Dark Winds.
9. I’m car-free and walk everywhere. Keeps me fit, saves money, and I can chat to people. “I suspect that the mind, like the feet, works at about three miles an hour. If this is so, then modern life is moving faster than the speed of thought, or thoughtfulness.” – Rebecca Solnit, Wanderlust.
   
   “That’s the best way to see the world: in our bodies.” – Beat poet Gary Snyder.
10. Hastings & St Leonards has been my home since 2006 – I kept things stable while lone parenting. Now doing my bit to celebrate 1066 Country!