Letters Home

If I had to choose a theme for our recent summer holiday, it would be “the power of nature.” We visited places that were vastly different from what we are used to and experienced fire, lava, sandstorms, and ocean tempests. Every destination served as a powerful reminder of our smallness and vulnerability in the face of Mother Nature’s might.

Iceland – Land of Fire and Ice

Charl’s dream of visiting Iceland came true this year. We love cruise holidays because they offer a carefree experience and the opportunity to explore many places without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking.

We set off from Rotterdam aboard a Holland America ship, heading towards Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.

Our first stop was the beautiful town of Ålesund in Norway. We explored the breathtaking fjords of Iceland, which are lined with small fishing villages and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Some areas even served as filming locations for the Game of Thrones TV series.

We had eagerly anticipated our visit to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s top attractions. However, just a few days before our arrival, a volcano near the lagoon erupted, forcing the spa to close due to lava flows that made the roads inaccessible. I closely followed the situation on social media and read about how authorities worked through the night to restore access to the attractions.

An Active Volcano

Our drive to the lagoon in a rental car was an experience. The landscape, shaped by an eruption over 800 years ago, was truly breathtaking. As we got closer, we could see where fresh lava had flowed over the roads. It resembled black mud. Authorities had constructed lava barriers and created new roads to allow traffic to pass through. Many people stopped along the way to take photos and capture drone videos. And yes, we saw the volcano erupting—from a safe distance, of course. It was unbelievable! In that moment, we felt so small in the presence of such an immense natural spectacle.

During our cruise, we crossed the Arctic Circle and experienced Iceland’s Midnight Sun, where daylight lasts nearly 24 hours in June. This unique daylight cycle is one of Iceland’s many wonders. In contrast, winter brings shorter days with only a few hours of sunlight, making it possible for visitors to see the Northern Lights, as the long nights allow the aurora to dance brightly in the sky. I hope I get the chance to witness that one day!

Geothermal Blue Lagoon

Fortunately, we were still able to visit the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is truly unique; the warm, mineral-rich water has a soft blue hue and is known for its health benefits. The water originates from 2,000 meters deep underground and remains delightfully warm, averaging between 37°C and 40°C, regardless of the outside temperature.

The Blue Lagoon formed by accident when steam released by the geothermal power station at Svartsengi condensed on the surface. Initially, people thought that the water would seep into the lava fields. However, over time, sediment sealed the surface, allowing the lagoon to grow.

At the spa, there is a mask bar where you can choose from options like silica mud, algae, minerals, or even a lava scrub. After using these treatments, our skin felt silky smooth, and we were deeply relaxed—ready for our next adventure.

Sandstorm in La Goulette, Tunisia

La Goulette, a port town in Tunisia, immediately welcomed us with its warm and hospitable atmosphere. The markets were alive with vibrant spices, colourful fabrics, ceramics, and traditional crafts. The day we visited was extremely hot, and after exploring the old town and the bustling markets, we decided to return to the ship early for a refreshing swim.

Back in our cabin, I sensed a change in the air. I quickly brought our wet swimsuits in from the balcony—just in time! A sandstorm rolled in, turning the sky a deep orange. Unexpectedly, we heard a crash as the glass of the swimming pool shower broke. The wind swept items from the pool deck into the ocean. Our cabin was on the 11th floor, and one of the chairs even left a mark on our balcony’s wooden railing.

This kind of phenomenon isn’t a daily occurrence, but it is part of life in a region influenced by the Sahara Desert. For most locals, it is merely a temporary nuisance; for us, however, it was a frightening and unforgettable experience.

Ocean Storm and Wildfire in Marseille, France

As we approached the harbour in Marseille, I could feel the ship battling the elements. The sea’s white-capped, rough waves were like Cape Town’s South-Easter on a stormy day! The captain successfully docked the cruise ship with assistance from two dredgers, which helped keep the vessel steady throughout the day. Our short walk to the shuttle bus was difficult due to the strong wind.

Later that day, we noticed smoke rising in the distance. A small yellow aeroplane was scooping up water and flying towards a wildfire. Suddenly, all our phones began vibrating with an eerie sound. In red letters, we saw: Safety Warning. Everyone connected to the Marseille cell tower received this alert. The fire prevented some buses, filled with passengers on day excursions, from returning to the ship on time. Consequently, the cruise ship departed later than scheduled, but we were safe.

Gratitude and Humility

After every storm, every plume of smoke, every sandstorm, and every volcanic eruption, we began to see the world with new eyes. This holiday didn’t just amaze us with natural beauty – it revealed the incredible power of nature and how small we truly are in comparison.

We are grateful to be safely home again, with memories we will treasure forever, and a newfound respect for the forces of the Earth.

Regards

Emsia

Zander was fortunate to embark on a meaningful journey to Kathmandu, Nepal, as part of a school trip. His school, ICS in Zurich, has a strong and ongoing partnership with Shree Mangal Dvip (SMD) in Nepal, founded on the values of heartfelt intercultural exchange, global understanding, and transformative education. For over twenty years, ICS has welcomed SMD students and assisted them in pursuing their IB diplomas. The ICS school community has united to raise funds for the improvement of the SMD school’s facilities and education.

As parents, we said goodbye to an excited group of Grade 10 learners at the airport. The rest of this letter is my account of their trip, pieced together from messages, photos, and Google research. It was a joy to follow their journey from afar, and I hope these reflections capture even a fraction of the excitement and growth they experienced.

A warm welcome at SMD and Kathmandu

Upon their arrival at SMD School in Kathmandu, the principal warmly welcomed them with a cup of tea, followed by a guided tour of the school. Zander shared, “The school reminded me of our primary school in South Africa. The students are kind, friendly, and cheerful. It was wonderful to meet the other Grade 10 students from SMD and get to know each other better.“

At the end of the school day, their new friends accompanied them on a visit to the Boudha Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shape of the Stupa symbolises the Buddha, crowned and seated in a meditative posture on a lion’s throne. In Buddhism, a Stupa is a domed, semicircular structure that holds various types of sacred relics.

On their second day in Nepal, the group had a unique opportunity to witness Saka Dawa, one of the holiest celebrations in Tibetan Buddhism. This sacred day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana (passing) of Gautama Buddha.

Zander shared, “After the celebration, we played fun games like basketball and soccer with our new friends. Just ten minutes of playing here leaves me completely out of breath—I think it’s a combination of the high altitude and the air pollution. Later, the girls gathered us in a hall and taught us some traditional Nepalese dances.”

Different Worlds, Same Dreams

Zander’s feedback on the climate and food experiences: “The climate in Nepal is hot and tropical. However, 30 degrees here doesn’t feel like 30 degrees in Switzerland or South Africa; it is much more humid. In the evenings, intense thunderstorms are accompanied by heavy rain. During the day, the sun shines brightly, but by 6 p.m., the skies open. I enjoy the food, especially the Nepalese momos and Indian curries.”

He also shared insights about privileges: “The Nepalese kids have the same interests as we do. We listen to the same music and speak in similar ways; we’re just ordinary teenagers. However, the boy I met must travel five days by bus and then hike far into the mountains every time he visits his parents. His family barely has enough money for school. He’s the only person in his entire family who can read and write. His parents sacrificed everything so he could have an education.”

Collaboration Across Cultures at SMD

During the first week, Zander and his group attended classes alongside the SMD learners and collaborated on group projects. They not only learned with the SMD students but also learned from them. ICS and SMD students collaborated on sustainable development solutions for mountainous, landlocked countries such as Switzerland and Nepal. At the end of the week, the teams presented their ideas to the Grade 9 students and school staff. 

Exploring Kathmandu

In the second week, the group went on a cultural excursion that included visits to Patan Durbar Square, an early morning vegetable market, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the Swayambhu Nath Temple, which offers a stunning view of the city. The highlight for many was exploring the vibrant Thamel district, where students had free time to wander, shop for souvenirs, and pick out gifts.

Shivapuri Summit Trek

Over the weekend, ICS and SMD students embarked on a hike to the summit of Shivapuri Mountain, located in the national park at the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley. The 10-kilometre ascent, with an elevation gain of nearly 1,100 meters, took approximately four hours to complete. Along the way, they spotted deer and a troop of macaques in the lush tropical rainforest. Unfortunately, they did not catch a glimpse of the elusive clouded leopards or Himalayan black bears that also inhabit the area.

At the summit, the group rested in a circle, sharing snacks and recharging their energy for the descent. They chose a different, shorter but much steeper path down. The 6-kilometre return journey, which involved hundreds of stairs, took about two hours. After such a physically demanding day, their soft beds were especially welcome.

Tranquillity at Namo Buddha Monastery

The group had an overnight experience at Namo Buddha Monastery. I have read that, from a Buddhist perspective, Namo Buddha is one of the most sacred religious sites in Nepal. Together with the Budha Stupa and Swayambhu Nath Stupa, it comprises three of the country’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations.

According to Zander, Namo Buddha is not only spiritually significant but also breathtakingly beautiful and profoundly peaceful. The surroundings are serene and clean, with cool, fresh air that feels rejuvenating. It serves as an ideal place for meditation and quiet reflection. In the early morning, a stunning sunrise greets visitors, while the evenings offer equally mesmerising sunsets. In the distance, the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas emerge, radiating a sense of purity and majesty.

Travel is a gift

I close with the words of one of the teachers on the trip. It has been a wonderful two weeks, an experience none of us will ever forget.  I suspect that the lessons learned from Buddhism, SMD students, Nepali culture, and their way of life will manifest themselves differently in each of us here, and those learnings will appear at varying times and places for all of us over the coming days, weeks, months, and years.

I am grateful to Zander’s school and teachers for making this experience possible. A journey like this shifts your perspective on the world, its people, and the values that truly matter in life. Travel is a gift that keeps on giving.

I share some pictures that the students and teachers captured in the video below.

Regards

Emsia