Sep 30, 2016

A writer’s holiday – Kandy Shepherd


 I’m writing this on the balcony of my hotel on the beachside in Chania on the Greek island of Crete. I’m thinking of this as a working holiday, as I’m on a deadline for a book and still writing as I go. I thought I could get it finished before we left but it was not to be. Sadly, Im not a fast writer...


What a place to write!

People react with dismay when I tell them but I’m finding it enjoyable. The time I’m spending writing I would usually be reading—and maybe snacking too much on local delicacies. And I love writing! Not only that but I’m writing a Greek hero in a Greek setting and I’m here in Greece. How much better can it get than that?

Of course writers never really get a rest. We’re always getting hijacked by ideas and finding inspiration from our surroundings and the people we meet. A walk around an area where there seemed to be a number of abandoned buildings really fired my imagination.


 Are they really abandoned? What’s the story behind them? Or is the crumbling façade just that—a façade? There may not be a story there at all. But I find it all fun to contemplate.



And of course that’s not to mention the many handsome Greek men I see around me. I try not to make it obvious I’m observing them—just for hero inspiration you understand! (And beautiful Greek women, too.)

The story I’m finishing now was inspired by my last trip to Greece. Who knows what this trip will bring? I’ll be sure to let you know when the book comes out.

Do you have a favourite holiday destination, Down Under or otherwise? I’ve only just discovered Greece after many years of travelling. I’d love to read your comments!



10 comments:

  1. Hi Kandy

    WOW love those photos and yes this trip must be inspiring and that means more great stories for us and I have to say I am very partial to a Greek hero love Greek food as well :) Greece is a place I would love to visit maybe one day I will get there I had many Greek friends growing up as for me I have been on a few cruises and visiting some of the islands was amazing and fingers crossed we will be on another cruise next year.

    Have Fun
    Helen

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    1. Hi Helen, yes the Greek food is delicious! Your cruises sound wonderful, I hope you get to go on another one next year. I have only been on one cruise, it was great fun.

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  2. Kandy, I envy you your Greek trip for inspiration. There, I've said it! I'm just starting a book with a Greek hero and setting and am relying on some very old memories. I've been discussing with Mr West the possibility of a stay in Greece again some time as we both love it.

    As for a favourite place? Too hard to narrow it down to one.

    Enjoy the holiday! Good luck with the book.

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    1. Thanks Annie. Yes, it is very inspiring here, you do tend to forget details. I take lots of photos, even of things like what flowers are in bloom at this time of year. This morning there was a gorgeous little Greek toddler at breakfast with a mop of curly black hair and mischievous black eyes - look for him in one of my future stories! I think we should all consider a writers retreat in Greece!

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  3. Ooh, Kandy, what a splendid place for a spot of writing. It all sounds so exotic! I hope you're having a wonderful time. :-)

    Favourite holiday location...mmm, I find it hard to go past London. ;-)

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    1. Michelle, I adore London too. I loved every minute living there and so enjoyed visiting favourite haunts when I was there last week. Two of my best friends (my bridesmaids!) live there and catching up with them is always a treat.

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  4. Kandy, totally agree that we writers never really rest. What if? keeps plaguing me. We spent a month in Italy three years ago and I'd go back in a instant. But not to be sad, because we're heading to other countries in Europe next year. More stories and fun coming up.

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    1. Oh yes, Sue, those plaguey "what ifs?" But it's wonderful how much fuel we collect for our stories on our travels, isn't it? I haven't been to Italy for years and years. Maybe that's next for us. Great to hear you have a European trip planned for next year, will look forward to your reports!

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  5. Hello Kandy, these beautiful photos. A favorite destination for my holiday is the sea, no matter where, as long as there is the sea. I hope soon to go on vacation in Greece, and perhaps even in Australia ... what would be my dream.
    Franca

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    1. Franca, I also love to be by the water for my vacation. Greece is fabulous. So, of course, is Australia. We would love to see you in Australia some time!

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