#curated travel packages

[tooobjectdinosaur-blog]

#Experience and Indulge in the Beauty of Indic #Culture, Tradition, #Temple art and #Architecture, To continue the act of goodness of creating pleasurable memories and promoting India’s soft power: the intangible cultural heritage, paths of Jvala has been carefully created with a lot of care.

Cultural tour curated for advanced level #yoga practitioners and spiritual #seekers, and hence Yoga Darshan and its practice traditions are the underlying currents, among other things. Similarly, if you are an art buff, then each path under the category of #connoisseurs has a small knowledge capsule from Indian aesthetics as a theme that will adequately accentuate the experience of the #travel destination chosen. For this reason, Jvala’s travels are unhurriedly designed.

[chubs-deuce]

Hello!!! Love love LOVE your Charlastor and Hazbin artwork; your art is amazing!!

I have a feww questions if you’re comfortable with answering them (no worries if not) :D

I love hearing people’s music recommendations, so I was wondering if you listen to music whilst you draw and if there’s any songs in particular that make you think of the characters and/or the ship?

Also, I get a bit nervous posting about Charlastor because of some of the hate it gets in the fandom and because some of my irl classmates who follow me don’t like the ship (and don’t know I like it), so I was wondering what your general mindset is when you post your art online, but also what your mindset is like when posting Charlastor art, knowing what the fandom can be like?

Finallyy, I wanted to ask if you’ve read Under My Skin by whamagram on AO3 and if you have, what are your thoughts on it? It’s a mature slowburn Radiobelle fic and only has a few chapters out so far, but it’s updated pretty regularly and has become my new favourite at the moment! I highly highly recommend it because it’s super well-written, really witty, and really understands the characters. It’s all about Charlie nursing Alastor back to health after the final battle in season 1 and it’s just so well done!!

Again, just want to say that I really really love your work and thank you for sharing it! I especially love how you draw expressions and the way you draw characters and their emotions feels so real. Seeing your illustrations inspires me to keep practicing with my own art!

Omg thank you so much for this lovely ask?!!

I'd be more than happy to answer all of these actually! :D

I am, in fact, the kind of person who looooves finding songs that fit certain characters or ships and make whole playlists over time if I find enough of them, so here's some that made me think of Charlastor (links are all spotify):

- Glass Piano, by Kathleen

- Daisy Bell, and specifically this scuffed computer sung version bc it hits better

- bored like me, by dodie

- Ended with the Night, by Caravan Palace

- I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire, by The Ink Spots

- I Can't Decide, by Scissor Sisters

I have yet to really find more songs specific to the characters as individuals tho lol

----------

As for your next question...

This isn't my first rodeo in the unpopular non-canon het presenting ship club, so there's a few things I like to remind myself of when I feel that people pleaser anxiety sneaking up on me:

1)

if people truly wanted to avoid content of the ship, they'd block the tags. Maybe kindly ask your friend to block the charlastor and radiobelle tags bc you want to post about them? This way they're not forced to see what they dislike and you get to have your harmless fun. If they're opposed to this, question why. It's not your job to curate *their* online experience, they do have all the necessary tools at their disposal.

2)

I consider the source material like a toy box. You can play with the dolls in it like the packaging intended for you to, but there's no rules dictating that you can't play *your* way if that's more fun to you.

Canon is in my eyes the preferred suggestion, but not the law - don't we all just smush the heads of dolls together making kissy noises in our minds at the end of the day?

A lot of people sadly treat shipping like it's a battle for author validation, when in reality it was always just a way to playing with hypotheticals and exploring the world and characters canon offered us in new and interesting ways... I hate the attitude some people have about canonicity. Imo, as long as you're not acting like your non-canon ship should be canon and shit on other ships in the process, you're not doing any harm.

Now... Canon sexualities and having contrary headcanons are a tricky road to travel because there's so much emotional investment in the canon representation of often overlooked or mishandled minority groups, and this is the biggest anti argument I've seen get thrown around, since Charlastor as a ship not only splits up the canon lesbian pairing, but also alters Alastor's canon sexuality to make the ship work.

What's important here is that you handle it respectfully - i.e. don't be a dick and go around acting like your preferred ideas are better and should be canon or whatever. Attitude is important, respect canon for what it is and embrace the fact that your ship is not. It's not a detriment! It just means we have to make all of our own content lol.

I personally headcanon Alastor as demisexual/demiromantic not only because it still fits under the aspec umbrella, but also because I myself am both of those things and enjoy messing with the characters and narrative using a dynamic I have a lot of personal experience with! It's fun to hit someone as haughty and stubbornly emotionally detached as Alastor with a flurry of unexpected, unwanted feelings and struggling to navigate them.

Do I want that to be canon? Absolutely not! I'm just having fun with my imaginative toys in my own corner of the internet lol.

Also for the record, I think Chaggie is cute and they should absolutely stay together, I just don't find them interesting enough to explore further in the realm of fanfiction and art :'D

Ultimately I'm a strong believer of "I can post whatever I want forever", if anyone has an issue with it and the given tools at their disposal aren't enough to deal with it, they're free to unfollow and/or block me! I don't need anyone's approval to have harmless fun with my artistic and writing skills where I don't bother anyone, and that's imo always what should be at the core of creating just about anything.

----------

OH ALSO I KNOW THAT FIC AND IT'S SOO GOOODDDD I DROP EVERYTHING TO GO READ IT WHENEVER A NEW CHAPTER DROPS

I try my best to leave comments under it wherever I can too bc it genuinely scratches like every itch I have about this ship so well-

The comedy is on point, the dialogue feels so solidly in-character and the pacing and the overall concept just work perfectly!!

10/10 concur as a great recommendation lol

----------

QWQ again, thank you so much for taking the time to type out this lovely ask, I really do appreciate it and the compliments also absolutely made my day!!

I hope you keep having as much fun with this ship as I am, take care!! <3

[tasty-littl-snack]

I was watching that new interview video with Steven Lim and he talks about starting watcher and how he asked Ryan to start a company with him for about a year but Ryan was very hesitant until one day he said sure but then asked to bring Shane like I’m not normal about this. Ryan could not part with partner in crime. 🥺

It's almost like they are a package deal and have a bond that can't be broken (all Ryan's words)

This is a great interview that really tells so much about Steven and his thinking. I think this is the most bts we got on how they came up with the idea to start their own company, aside from making watcher but that's more yknow calibrated for camera so they don't say everything. This podcast and TJ's podcast from last year with Shane as a guest really is more relaxed settings (both people they talk with are their friends so they are a bit more honest than the curated story of how it all came to be) and it going to rotate in my brain forever. It's really luck and circumstances and stars alligning that these people even met and then decided to take a risk like that together. (even more so from Shane's perspective who thought he got the internship at buzzfeed and then it turned out he didn't but he already moved to LA by that point. Like if this isn't fate then idk what is)

What strikes me is that it's Ryan asking if Shane can come along as if it wasn't obvious from the start, and Shane obviously thinking that it's a risk and being the last one to agree. From Steven's interview it seems like Ryan and Steven started working on it only the two of them and then Ryan asked if Shane can join them which changes the perspective of it all to me. For some reason I thought maybe it was Ryan's idea and he asked Shane first, so this changes a bit their dynamic to me because it really shows that Steven and Ryan are good friends who would take a risk like that and then there's of course Shane who Ryan can't imagine to not cowork with I guess. Idk.

This inteview is also good for the background of travel season preparation and how Steven also had to convince Adam and Andrew to come to Watcher which I find very fascinating in itself. But while he lasted a bit longer doing stuff without them Ryan and Shane simply could not be separated for that long and it really shows that they are not normal about each other. Much to think about.

[ladamedusoif]

Provenance

A Gentleman Thief x F!Museum Professional Reader Story

Part of the HCU (Heritage Crimes Universe) - click for masterlist

Pairing: The Thief (Casillero del Diablo) x F!Museum Professional Reader

Summary: Two months after their reunion, the museum curator finds herself on an unexpected Parisian adventure. 

Content warnings: Smut; Oral sex (F receiving); unprotected but safe PiV sex; discussion of contraception; alcohol consumption; angst; discussion of illegal acquisition of stolen objects during WW2; (ethical) heritage crimes; theft; sort-of fluff; no physical description of Reader beyond her professional attire, though she has a nickname (chérie).

Rating: E (18+ MDNI)

Word count: ~7,500

A/N: They're back! The Thief is just too charming to resist. A follow-up to My Kiss, Only For You and Reunions.

I am no longer using a taglist: please follow my writing blog @ladameecrit and turn on notifications to keep up to date with my work.

The package is, unmistakably, a book. Wrapped in brown paper, a neatly-typed address label affixed to the front. No return address. 

It’s pretty explicitly addressed to you, though. Right down to the department. You rack your brain, trying to remember whether you’d ordered something and forgotten. Or maybe it’s a gift?

You slip it out of the wrapping carefully. The dust jacket design suggests it’s from the 1950s, 1960s at the latest, but it’s in impeccable condition. 

The Museums of Paris: A Guide

The front cover features a photo of the Louvre, the facades still soot-blackened before their cleaning in the later part of the twentieth century, with beautifully-dressed tourists milling around the old entrance to the museum. 

Before you can leaf through the book, seeking a receipt or gift card or invoice of some kind, your desk phone rings. The museum director. And they want to speak to you: now. 

***

“We’ve had an…unusual request.”

You slip into the old leather chair opposite the director’s desk, covered in papers and catalogues. “An unusual request?”

She takes off her dark-framed glasses and smiles. “One of our major donors. They’re potentially about to buy some important art objects from a private Parisian collector, and we are hoping that - in time - they might donate them to us.”

“Okay…”

“But they don’t feel entirely confident appraising the collection without expert guidance.”

You nod slowly. 

The director looks at you as if she’s waiting for the penny to drop. 

“They want you to go to Paris with them, as an expert consultant. They will pay for all your expenses, travel, per diems - the lot.”

You just about manage to stop your jaw falling open. 

“Um…why me? I’m not one of the senior curators or object specialists, maybe they…”

She holds up a perfectly-manicured hand. “Stop there. The donor has explicitly requested you. They believe you are the best equipped to manage their needs on this job.”

“Uh… okay. So, when do I leave?”

She grins. “Two days’ time. And bring some decent clothes - you know how formal some of the French collectors can be.”

As you return to the office, a sensual memory flashes through your brain. Velvet, the colour of good Burgundy wine. Soft lips, coarse beard. Warm bodies pressed together. The most intense orgasm you’ve had in years, maybe ever.

It couldn’t be, surely. It was almost two months since that night and there’d been no missive, no note, nothing. The director said “them”, didn’t she? Not “he”. 

Besides, she’d said the donor was buying the objects. Not, you chuckle to yourself as you sit at your desk, stealing them. However ethical his motives may be. 

Still. No harm in packing some nice lingerie. Just in case.

***

It is still dark when your phone buzzes to let you know that the car - paid for and sent by the client - is waiting outside, ready to bring you to the airport for your transatlantic flight to Paris. 

You’d expected an Uber, not the gleaming black vehicle pulled up outside your building. Suitcase securely stowed, the driver points out the bottled water and snacks located in the back of the car as he sets off through deserted city streets. 

The surprises keep coming. You are in business class, not coach, for the long flight, resisting the urge to kick your feet and squeal with delight at the unexpected luxury. A smartly-dressed man holds a sign with your name on at Arrivals, and for a moment you wonder if this is the client. He’s another driver, of course - a charming and funny young Frenchman called Youssef, who speaks English with a vague American accent he says he picked up from TV and movies. 

Youssef whisks you into the city, pointing out landmarks along the way. The Eiffel Tower comes into view on the other side of the river as the black car negotiates elegant, narrow streets lined with perfectly-maintained nineteenth-century apartment buildings. 

“Et voilà!” Youssef stops the car and hops out to retrieve your suitcase. You step out, expecting to see the entrance to a hotel - but instead it’s just another residential building, sealed off from the city by two huge, heavy, dark green doors. 

With a bright smile, Youssef taps a little tag off a keypad and one of the doors swings open, revealing a passage leading to a gorgeous courtyard beyond. He refuses your tip - “it’s all good, madame!” - and instead picks up your bag and leads the way, opening another door to reveal the entrance hall proper. The marble floor is polished to perfection; dark red carpet covers the staircase that wraps around the elevator shaft; and there is not a sound to be heard.

”Sixth floor, madame. They’re waiting for you there.” He slides back the door of the elevator, slots your case in beside you, and presses the button. “Have a nice day!”

The elevator is old - possibly pre-World War One, you muse, unable to turn off the specialist’s mind - and slow. As it ascends, you take a moment to gather your thoughts and process this strange little adventure. 

If this was a movie, you’d be walking into a meeting of a criminal gang - or maybe to your death, you suddenly think, panic taking over for a second as the lift comes to a shuddering stop and you step out onto the sixth floor landing.

There is only one apartment entrance up here, as far as you can see. Dark red double doors, perfectly polished brass doorknobs and fittings adorning them, and a tiny doorbell discreetly tucked alongside the doorframe on one side. 

You close your eyes, take a deep breath, and hover your finger over the button. 

The door to the apartment swings open just as your fingertip makes contact with the doorbell, setting off a loud, sonorous bell somewhere within and making you jump.

”Bienvenue, chérie. Come in, won’t you? I do hope I haven’t frightened you.”

***

“You know, if you wanted to ask me out again you could have just called or emailed, like a normal person.”

He hands you a cup of strong black coffee and joins you on the couch in the apartment’s enormous living room. 

“Do you think I’m a normal person?”

You take a sip and chuckle. “You are definitely not a normal person.”

He smiles in satisfaction, eyes taking you in from head to toe as you feel a warmth building deep within.

”It’s very, very good to see you, chérie.” His voice is warm and honeyed, an inviting purr that makes you ache between your legs. 

Today, he is wearing a black cashmere turtleneck with a pair of perfectly-tailored grey dress pants and some heavy, brown-framed glasses. It’s all you can do not to climb on top of him. 

“It’s been almost two months, Thief. Did you forget about me?”

He shakes his head, eyes softening with what you want to believe is genuine regret. “Never. I had to spend some time away, in South America - dealing with the family business, you know - and then I came here, to look at Madame Deseine’s…collection.”

The way he enunciates the final word gives you pause. What was in this “collection”?

“So my invitation here was just an excuse to see me, is that it? Because you weren’t back in the city yet?”

He looks at you in surprise. “Of course not! I mean, I’m very happy to see you again.” A little smile, eyes twinkling. “But no, I need your expertise. And your company is…a nice bonus.”

“My expertise?”

He sits back and crosses his legs, holding your gaze. “You are a specialist in the kinds of decorative arts and objects in Madame Deseine’s collection, I believe. And you are fluent in French. Year abroad in Lyon, correct?”

Your mouth falls open and you quirk your head. “How did… have you been… were you digging for information on me? That’s a violation of trust, and -“

He interrupts your fury with a chuckle. “Chérie, it’s all on your museum staff page profile. Qualifications, time abroad, special areas of expertise.”

You blush, embarrassed, and stare down into the dark swirl of your coffee as an awkward silence takes hold in the apartment’s tasteful interior. 

“I’m sorry, chérie. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable. Trust me, you are exactly the right person for the job.” 

He extends a hand towards yours, long fingers gently stroking the back of your hand. When you look up, his dark eyes are warm and genuinely apologetic. 

“I guess I’m not used to being…pursued, like this.”

He arches an eyebrow. “In what sense?”

You smirk and stand up. “In every sense, Thief. Now: are you going to explain this ‘job’ to me or not?”

His gaze - taking you in, a smile on his lips - is enough to set you aflame. 

“I am. But over dinner, I think.”

***

The waiter perfectly pours a little more white wine into each of your glasses before returning the bottle to the stainless steel ice bucket and leaving the two of you to your meals. 

He raises his glass to you, and you return the gesture.

You were not surprised when the car had pulled up outside an elegant, discreet restaurant tucked away in the Seventh Arrondissement. It was exactly his style: subtle, timeless, and exuding quality even before he held the door open and you stepped inside.

“So.” He swallows a bite of his monkfish and takes a sip of wine. “Madame Deseine.”

“Madame Deseine.”

You start to eat your meal as he explains. A genuine and respected art collector, Madame Deseine lived outside Paris in her family’s country estate, surrounded by an exceptional array of mostly nineteenth and early twentieth-century paintings, decorative arts, sculpture and furniture. As she grew older, she had begun to sell some parts of the collection - but remained extremely guarded about its exact contents.

“There are some…questions about the provenance of some of the items in the collection, or at least items we think are in the collection. Mostly late nineteenth-century decorative arts - clocks, vases, that sort of thing - but also some small art nouveau sculptures and figurines.”

You take a sip of your wine and narrow your eyes. “And this is where you come in?”

He nods. 

“You’re planning to steal some of her collection?”

He shakes his head, pauses, then nods before shaking his head again.

“Kind of, not really. Didn’t you hear what I said about provenance?”

“You think she’s not being entirely honest about her methods, about how she came by the collection?” In a world increasingly attuned to the repatriation of looted and stolen objects to their rightful place, you were deeply familiar with the importance of the provenance paper trail. 

He dabs at the corner of his mouth with the linen napkin. “Some of the collection. I believe that some of the collection came into her family as a result of looting and theft, that these items were not restored to their rightful owners, and that she is well aware of this fact.”

“You know that some of the most important art collectors in France before the war were Jewish families, no doubt.” You nod and he continues. “And that many of those families, even if they were in the minority lucky enough to escape the round-ups and the camps, had to leave behind those collections.”

”And when they were gone, the collections were…dispersed.”

He shakes his head. “Not dispersed. Stolen. Some of the surviving members of those families had their possessions located and restored, but not all. And I have been reliably informed that some of those missing items are currently in the hands of Madame Claudine Deseine.”

You swallow a bite of your salmon and size him up. “Aha. And this is why an ethical gentleman thief is required, I suppose?”

He gives you a knowing smile. The way the candlelight catches the coppery flecks in his brown eyes makes your breath catch for an instant. 

“I have been asked by a number of individuals to retrieve the objects stolen from their families over eighty years ago, and which have made their way into Madame Deseine’s collection without regard for their provenance.” He chews thoughtfully on a steamed green bean. 

“So where, exactly, do I come in, Thief?”

”I am going to buy some of the collection. But in order to be sure that the missing objects are in the Deseine chateau and to cross-check the gaps in the provenance records…I need to gain her trust. Or rather - you need to gain her trust.”

You raise your eyebrows and take another sip of wine. You might need something stronger by the end of the night.

”You aren’t seriously asking me to steal art, are you?” you hiss. He shakes his head furiously.

”Absolutely not. But I know Claudine Deseine’s reputation, and I know she won’t just let a potential buyer see the whole of her collection. She will, however, be a little more welcoming to a specialist who has kindly agreed to evaluate the items properly. Oh, and to look through the provenance records, to save us all time.”

”So what, I just turn up with you and hope she lets me into her secret stash of stolen stuff?”

He chuckles at the alliteration. “Not quite. But you may need to butter her up, tell her you’ve heard extraordinary things about the rare items she has, ask if she might let you see these things you’ve only read about in catalogues. And when you’re in, you can use your expertise to confirm that these are the items we are looking for, and then look for any gaps or obvious forgeries in the accompanying paperwork.”

”And how, exactly, do you propose to liberate the items from this chateau?”

He taps his nose. “Chérie, telling you that would make you completely complicit. I will handle it, you will wait in the apartment.”

You purse your lips. “I can’t believe I’m actually agreeing to this.”

He tilts his head to the side. “Deseine has knowingly sat on these things too long - why else would she hide these valuable items from any public descriptions of her collection? The government ignores the claims from the descendants because, for the most part, they live in the US.” He finishes the remaining wine in his glass. “And I, personally, cannot resist a challenge.”

“I have one condition. Apart from not becoming more implicated in this than I already am.”

“Name it.”

”That. That’s my condition. I want your name.”

He chuckles and looks down at his empty dinner plate. “Chérie, I cannot.”

”You’re asking me to help you steal back some very valuable art, and you can’t give me your name?”

”If you know my name you will know too much. And I don’t know why you need to know, anyway.”

You roll your eyes. “I like to know who I’m working with. And, on occasion, who I’m sleeping with, or who’s eating me out on my desk.”

To your satisfaction, he splutters on his sparkling water. 

”I still can’t tell you,” he says, recovering his composure.

”Nothing stopping me guessing, though,” you whisper mischievously. “Let’s see. Giacomo.”

He gives you a withering glance.

”Not that, then…Pietro.”

An eye-roll. 

“Dave.”

”Do I look like a ‘Dave’ to you?”

You giggle as the waiter takes away your empty plates. “No, that’s true. Pierre?”

He groans and shakes his head, but his smile is unmistakable. “Don’t make me regret this, chérie.”

***

Back in the apartment, he rummages in a sideboard filled with bottles of various liqueurs and spirits, before producing a bottle of Courvoisier and two cognac glasses.

“A little digestif, if you’d like?” 

You accept your glass gratefully and inhale the complex, fruity aroma of the alcohol, swirling it gently before taking a sip. Its warmth radiates through your body and you close your eyes and savour the sensation, tucking your feet under you as you cosy up on the couch.

“Tell me about the apartment.”

He smiles, looking around the spacious living room, its nineteenth century interior fixtures somehow matching perfectly with the array of impeccably-chosen twentieth-century furniture. 

“My great-great-grandfather bought it, not long after this building was constructed - late nineteenth century, I think. The family business frequently brought him to Paris, and he needed a base.”

“And the family business is…?”

He huffs a laugh. “You are persistent, chérie. Wine. The family business was - is - wine.” 

You raise your eyebrows and nod as if extremely impressed, and he chuckles, revealing the laughter lines around his eyes that lend his handsome face such character. 

“Well, I can’t pretend to be an expert - what do they call it? An…oenophile, is that it? - so I’m not going to ask for any more details, fear not. My wine knowledge extends no further than ‘that’s quite nice, isn’t it.’”

He feigns horror, recoiling back into the cushions of the sofa. “Chérie, I am going to have to pretend I didn’t hear that.”

You giggle and take another sip of the cognac. “I’m willing to learn, though.”

“That so? Well, I can be your guide, if you’d like.” He finishes his cognac and licks his lips as he looks at you. 

“I…I would like.”

He smiles, takes your glass, and stands up. You follow his lead, wandering behind him into the kitchen where he deposits the empty glasses on a pristine countertop. Every fibre of your being wants to reach for him, to pull him to you, to have him there and then.

“Chérie, I…didn’t want to presume anything.” He swallows hard and turns to face you, eyes a little wary. “About, uh, sleeping arrangements. Hence the guest bedroom.”

You had changed there earlier - a bright, pretty bedroom at one end of the corridor running along the apartment, complete with its own small en suite bathroom. 

“Oh. Of course.” You flush. “A busy day tomorrow.”

His hand finds yours, long fingers caressing yours before he brings it to his lips for a soft, sustained kiss that does nothing to quench the flames of your desire.

“Indeed. That said, if you want company…”

You see the spark in his eyes: teasing, playful, almost daring you to act first. Instead, you meet his gaze with an enigmatic smile.

He pulls away slightly and arches an eyebrow. “If you want company, I am just down the hall. Bonne nuit, chérie.”

***

In the quiet of the guest room you slip out of your clothes and into a wine-coloured silk robe you’d found hanging on the back of the door, freshly pressed. You retrieve your washbag and toiletries and set about your nightly routine. 

You hoped it would be a distraction from the ache between your legs, from the memory of his hand on yours, from the way he looked at you, from his offer of company. From the wet patch you’d noticed on your panties as you undressed. 

“Fuck.”

You close your eyes and lean on the sink for a moment as you take a deep breath before reaching for your moisturiser.

***

He’s sitting on his bed, stripped to his boxers and clad in his own, navy blue silk robe. It hangs open around his body, the colour a perfect complement for his golden skin. 

A knock. He lifts his head from his papers.

“Come in, chérie.”

She peeks playfully around the door. “I was wondering if that offer was still valid. I think I do want some…company.”

“It’s still valid.” He tidies away the paperwork and pats the space beside him on the large bed. “What kind of company did you have in mind?”

She crosses the room, hands reaching for the sash of her guest robe. It falls open as she reaches the bed, revealing the lacy bra and matching French knickers underneath. He inhales sharply, cock twitching at the sight. 

“Up to you. This is your turf, after all.” 

“Ah, but you’re the guest, chérie. Your preference is what counts.”

She shucks off the robe and climbs onto the bed, swiftly straddling him. With a slow roll of her hips, she drags her pussy over his hardening cock, the outline visible under his dark boxers.

“This is my preference. Does it work for you, too, Thief?”

He answers with a hungry kiss as he pulls her tight to him.

***

He tastes of mint and cinnamon and the faintest trace of Courvoisier. You had missed his mouth.

His fingers unhook the clasps of your bra and he tugs it off you, discarding it to a corner of the room. He breaks the kiss, lips pink and wet, and turns his attention to your tits: cupping them, fondling them, squeezing them with his broad hands before he starts to suck on each nipple in turn.

You toss back your head and bite your lip, stifling a loud moan. He releases your breast with a pop of his mouth.

“This apartment is the entire top floor, chérie. You can be as loud as you wish.”

Two fingers tug aside the crotch of your panties and find the warm wetness that’s been building between your legs all day. He looks up at you and grins. 

“On your back, amor.”

French knickers off, he gently pushes your thighs back before resting your legs over his shoulders. He buries his face against your pussy with a delighted groan, the delicious timbre of his voice rumbling against your core. 

He licks a long, slow stripe from your entrance to your clit, a hand pressing against your belly as your hips instinctively buck upwards with pleasure and need. His tongue swirls lasciviously across your folds, lapping up the wetness, before he begins to suck on your clit. Slow at first, a gorgeous torment; then faster, more insistent, the tip of his tongue flicking over and back over the swollen nub rhythmically in time with your needy moans and whimpers. 

He keeps it up as he slips first one, then two fingers inside you and hooks them just so, chuckling when you cry out.

“Fuck…I’m close, I -“

You let go. You come hard against his face, ecstasy coursing through your body as he keeps on fucking you through it with his fingers, gently pulling out when he senses your overstimulation. 

He moves up and lies beside you, face to face. 

“You enjoyed that.”

You try to slow your breathing. “You think?”

He chuckles, tracing the curve of your hip with his hand. “I enjoyed it, too.”

“And no jewel theft involved this time. So far, anyway.”

He closes his eyes and smiles, humming contentedly as he reaches for your breast, idly rubbing your nipple with his thumb. 

You study his features for a moment, noting the handful of freckles on his face, the way his dark lashes look against his cheeks, the gloss of your own slick shimmering across his pink lips, his chin, his moustache. 

This time, when your tongue swipes against his mouth, he tastes of you. 

You gather some of your own wetness on your fingers by way of lubrication, before tugging down his boxers and taking his cock in your hand. He closes his eyes as you stroke him slowly, steadily, feeling him growing harder under your careful touch.

With your free hand you caress the side of his face, thumb rubbing gently against the grey patches in his beard. 

“I want you, Thief.” 

He opens his eyes and smiles before gently moving your hand away from his cock. He shucks off his robe and shifts into position above you, arms caging your body on either side. 

“You know, I’m on birth control,” you whisper, looking up at him through your lashes. “And you were the last person I was with, and before that…well, it had been a while.”

He quirks an eyebrow. “Same. Well, not the birth control, evidently…but the rest. No one but you, not for some time. So…?”

You trail your fingers over his chest, dappled here and there with freckles, and he leans down to kiss you. Different, this time - softer, less desperate, more…tender.

“So you can have me bare, if you want.” 

“Oh fuck, chérie. Yes. Please.” He gestures with his head. “Turn, get on all fours.”

You do as you are told, teasingly wiggling your ass at him once you’re in position. He gives it a light slap and you squeal approvingly until the feeling of his cock opening you up makes you catch your breath.

He sinks slowly inside you, pausing when he’s fully sheathed in your warm pussy. You can hear his breathing becoming a little ragged, hitching as he adjusts to the feeling.

”Feel good, Thief?”

”Incredible, amor. You?” 

“Fucking amazing.”

He takes you slowly at first, a long drag out, a quicker thrust back inside, and builds up a rhythm quickly. The angle is nothing short of perfect and you bury your face against the covers, whining with pleasure. He reaches down and grabs one of your breasts, fingers pressing into the flesh as he fucks you harder and faster. 

“Such a beautiful body, amor. So soft and warm and fuck, such a tight little pussy for me. You feel so perfect on my cock.”

He’s hitting you just right now, another orgasm building rapidly until you come for the second time, muffling your cries in the blankets. You turn to look at him: broad body glistening with perspiration, errant curls falling over his forehead and darkened with sweat, that gorgeous head thrown back as he gets closer and closer.

”Come on, Thief.” You purr your encouragement, never taking your eyes off him. “Come on. Come. Fill me up.”

He comes hard, with a loud cry, hands gently caressing your hips as he finishes deep inside you. 

”I think you missed me.” 

He flops back on the bed and turns to face you as you nestle against him. A mischievous grin plays around his lips. “What on earth makes you say that, chérie?”

You kiss his forehead, tasting the salty sweetness of his damp skin. “Just a hunch. By the way, I have an even better reason why I need to know your name.”

He groans and rolls his eyes affectionately. “Well?”

”Well…if I knew your name, I could scream it out loud the next time you make me come like that.”

His eyes widen and he grins. “You could, I suppose.”

”So? What’s your name…Pablo.”

He fixes you with a teasing glare. “Not Pablo.”

”James. Jimmy. Jimbob?”

He can’t help but burst out laughing this time. “Fine. Fine. Let’s make a deal. If we succeed with Madame Deseine, I’ll give you a name.”

”A name?” The distinction is striking.

”A name. It may or may not be my name. But it will be a name. Deal?”

“Deal.”

***

The morning mist hangs low over the French countryside as you drive through the enormous gateway that divides the Deseine estate from the rest of the world, and follow the long drive up to the chateau proper.

You had expected that Youssef would be on driving duty. But it was your gentleman thief at the wheel of the understated hire car, confidently navigating the autoroutes and trunk roads that led to your destination. For a moment you imagine a parallel universe where you are just a normal couple on a normal holiday, not a nameless thief and a museum curator plotting to relieve a woman of her family’s ill-gotten gains.

He had slept well, it seemed. You? Not so much. In the wee small hours of the morning, you lay awake, listening to his steady breaths and ruminating over what, exactly, you were doing here - and why.

He isn’t your partner. Not your boyfriend. Hell, you don’t know if you could call this “dating”. You don’t even know who he is. He stole from your employer because you let your pussy override your brain. He brought you to Paris to aid and abet in another theft. And, instead of turning on your heel and trying to protect your professional reputation, you’d not only agreed to his scheme - you’d fucked him. Again. 

You’d tossed and turned on the pillows as you tried to quiet your mind enough for sleep. Was this really just about sex? Or was something else pulling you into each other’s orbits?

The Deseine chateau emerges at the end of the driveway. It appears at first glance to date from the eighteenth century, with some later additions and extensions. He pulls up near the main door and hops out of the car, quickly bounding over to the passenger side so he can hold the door for you. 

“What a gentleman,” you whisper, straightening the smart blazer and palazzo pants you’d worn for the occasion. 

“At your service,” he replies with a subtle wink. “Just as I was when you needed…company. How are you feeling this morning, by the way? Satisfied, I hope.”

Before you can answer, the enormous main doors of the chateau swing open and a petite woman with snow-white hair emerges, clad in a vintage bouclé Chanel skirt and matching jacket. He moves swiftly up the steps to shake her hand, speaking too quietly for you to pick up on whatever name he’s using today.

“And this is my expert, my advisor, my guiding light!” He gestures towards you, motioning for you to join them. You introduce yourself with a bright smile, trying to read the older woman’s expression, to get a sense of how you might gain her trust.

“It is an honour to be here, Madame. I’m so excited to see the collection.”

Claudine Deseine casts an appraising glance over you from head to toe. Seemingly satisfied, she extends her hand in greeting and addresses you in clipped, precise English. 

“It is very special, I think you’ll agree. Now, do come in - I’ll have my housekeeper Maryam bring us some coffee, and then we can take a look at the objects we’ve discussed.”

***

He is gentlemanly charm personified, you think, watching him follow Madame Deseine around the house. He flirts just enough to have the older woman like putty in his hands, listens attentively, laughs at her jokes, and looks at her with a familiar twinkle in his eyes. 

The recognition gives you pause, but you push it to the back of your mind. You have a plan to stick to today.

She leads the two of you into a bright room at the back of the chateau, overlooking a gorgeous French-style formal garden. “Well, here they are.” She gestures towards a large oak table in the middle of the room, where a variety of figurines and decorative objects are set out. You’d known what to expect: mostly art nouveau, dating from decades either side of 1900; some bronze figures; some beautifully-decorated ceramics, glazes still bright and vibrant; and what you immediately recognise as a small, early Lalique crystal vase.

He claps his hands together in what looks like genuine delight, eyes widening as he moves closer to the table. “May I?”

Madame Deseine beams and nods. He carefully picks up one of the vases, inspecting the swirling, sinuous curves of its painted decoration before checking the makers’ marks on the bottom of the piece. 

“Extraordinary,” he says in a rapt whisper.

“Madame?” She turns to face you. “Would it be possible for me to see the paperwork while he - while my client is inspecting the objects? It would save your valuable time, and you’ve already been so kind to accommodate us.”

She beams. “Of course. Follow me, won’t you?” She opens another door leading off the room and pauses for a moment. 

“I’ll be back tout de suite, monsieur,” she purrs at him as he peers at a bronze figurine. “Please, make yourself at home.”

“You really are most kind, Madame.” He winks, and the esteemed Claudine Deseine titters like a schoolgirl.

***

She flicks a switch and illuminates a large, windowless room located at the rear of the house, in what you suspect might be the former servants’ quarters. “Et voilà. The archive.”

The walls are lined with shelving, filled with hundreds of archive boxes and files. You begin to scan the shelves, trying to work out a pattern in the filing system. 

“They are labelled according to date of acquisition,” she explains. “Achats, purchases, by year.”

You look at her with an expression that you hope conveys innocent confusion. “Gosh, it’s all such a lot. Could you give me dates for the items being sold? Ballpark, if necessary - I just know he’s a stickler for the paperwork but he’s impatient and he won’t take kindly to me taking a long time in here…”

She smiles and nods sympathetically, and for a moment you feel incredibly guilty. “Ah. Men. I understand, my dear.” She pulls out an unmarked, unlabelled box file from the top shelf and retrieves a spiral-bound book.

“This is strictly entre-nous, my dear. My personal catalogue. Everything by date. Let this be your guide. And now, I must return to monsieur.” She looks at you conspiratorially. “If he becomes - how do they say it, antsy? - then he can simply take a walk in my beautiful gardens, hmmm?”

***

He strolls past the elegantly-trimmed box hedges as he makes his way to the elaborate water feature at the centre of the gardens. He couldn’t quite believe how well it had all worked out, so far - your complaint about his impatience had, as planned, won you her sympathy and with it an order from the lady of the house to go and see the gardens while you worked through the papers. 

If necessary, he’d have feigned illness, claimed he needed some air. But it’s always better when they play right into your hands, with something they believe is their idea. 

The gardens are perfectly positioned to give him a view of the back of the house: the doors leading to a terrace, the smaller windows and discreet servants’ entrance. His dark eyes survey the building closely, making a mental map he’ll refer to when he finalises the plan. He has his suspicions, but he needs you to confirm exactly where the collections are hidden. For now, he just hopes you can unlock the final part of the puzzle. 

***

A knock on the door announces the return of Claudine Deseine. 

“Well, have you found what you needed? I do hope the catalogue was useful.”

Little do you know, Madame. 

You replace the lid on a box of papers and nod at a stack of receipts and records of authenticity relevant to the items he was perusing for purchase. 

“Very useful, thank you, Madame.” 

You swallow hard and slow your breathing as you follow her out of the room. 

“Madame, may I - may I make a somewhat bold request?”

She raises an eyebrow. “You may. What is it?”

“I couldn’t help but notice the entries for some of Lalique’s cire perdue work when I was looking at the catalogue. Pieces so rare that we only know they exist because of René Lalique’s own records…”

“Yes. And?” 

“My masters dissertation was on Lalique, Madame. Is there…would you…could I…?”

She stares at you before her features soften into a smile. 

“You want to see them, don’t you?”

***

“Well?”

He waited until you were out of the estate before asking the question, not seeming to notice how quiet you’d been since getting back in the car.

“They’re there. The three Lalique pieces, that rare Sevres vase. She was only too happy to show me.”

“Did you check the makers’ marks?”

You nod, gazing out of the window. “I did. They’re the right pieces. Those Laliques are one of a kind. In different circumstances, it would have been a joy to see them.”

“And the papers?”

He takes the turn to merge onto the autoroute back to Paris, and you wish the nagging doubts about this whole sorry enterprise - about him - would dissipate.

“The private catalogue clearly states when they were acquired, but with no corresponding archival code numbers. I checked the boxes for those years carefully, just to be sure…but there’s no paper trail. Just a note in each catalogue entry recording the dealer they came from - all from the same man.”

He nods, satisfied. “And the room itself? What’s access like?”

“I sent you some photos earlier.” While Madame Deseine had been taking the priceless objects out of their storage boxes, you had snapped some surreptitious pictures. “Access may not be straightforward, though, given the absence of a window.”

He chuckles. “Leave that to me.”

“Won’t she know that you’ve taken the pieces, by the way?”

“F is for Fake, chérie. Nothing some good forgeries cannot fix.”

***

You spend the rest of the journey in silence, while he rambles about various subjects: French motorways, private chateaux, Lalique’s cire perdue process, in which a vase is formed within a one-off wax mould that was discarded afterwards, rendering the pieces unique - and extremely valuable.

“The descendants of the original owners still have, in some cases, the provenance records for these items,” he explains as he parks the car and taps the sensor to open the door into the building. “And now, soon, they’ll have their rightful inheritance.”

You don’t know whether to snap at him or burst into tears.

He takes your coat and saunters into the apartment’s small kitchen, still talking to you as he audibly potters around, opening cupboards and taking out dishes and glassware. You are not really listening, still caught up in your own thoughts. Why the fuck were you here? Were you really willing to risk your entire reputation for a crush and some sex? You’d been lucky to escape any questioning or punishment after the theft of the ruby, after all. 

And what if, as you wondered in the chateau when he was so flirtatious and charming with Madame Deseine, he was just using you? Your knowledge and your veneer of professional respectability helped him steal. Your desire and your body got him off. Win-win for him, but a potentially devastating loss for you.

“Chérie? Didn’t you hear me?”

He’s standing at the narrow door into the kitchen that adjoins the living room, sweater sleeves rolled up.

“Oh. Oh, sorry. I was miles away. What is it?”

“I asked the housekeeper to leave a light dinner for us, as it’s been a long day. It’s nothing fancy - some salads, crudités, cold cuts and cheeses - but I do have a very nice Sancerre chilled in the fridge…”

You force a smile. “That does sound good. I’ll set the table, if you show me where everything is.”

He cheerily opens the various cartons and tubs of food as you ferry the tableware into the open-plan dining area. Behind his usual charming patter, though, is a man increasingly worried about how quiet you’ve been since you left Madame Deseine and her collections earlier that day.

***

“You know you can talk to me, chérie. What’s on your mind?”

Of course he’s noticed. Why wouldn’t he? His perceptiveness is what makes him such an artful, successful thief.

You drain your glass of Sancerre and look him square in the eye.

“Am I really so different to Claudine Deseine?”

He looks confused.

“Excuse me?”

“Am I really so different to Claudine Deseine? In your eyes, I mean. Are you using me, like you’re using her?”

“I’m not using Madame Deseine. I’m buying some of her collection so I can liberate the really valuable pieces and get them back where they belong. That’s stealing, not using.”

You exhale, long and slow. “I saw you today. Handling her just like you do me. The charm offensive, the twinkling eyes, the flirting. She, at least, hasn’t slept with you - though I wouldn’t put it past you to try if you thought it would have helped.”

The words leave your lips, and you instantly regret it. So much for rational calm. Now you just sound like a jealous lover.

He looks at you, jaw ticking, and a blend of fury and hurt burning in his dark eyes. 

“That’s rather unfair, don’t you think?”

Silence.

“I had to win her over. Just like you did. Or did you forget your part in this?”

“Why am I here, Thief? What do you want from me? There must be hundreds of other experts out there you could have enlisted to help you gain access to the collection, theft or no theft. And if it’s just about sex, well - I suspect there’s no shortage of people who’d be very glad to fuck you. So why me? Or do you just want to ruin me, finish what you started when you tricked and took advantage of me?”

His voice is low and carefully controlled. “You know that’s not what this is, chérie. You know that.”

You push away from the table and stand to face him, flinging down your linen napkin. “So what, then, is it?”

He stares at you and his expression shifts, from glowering to openness. Mouth slightly ajar, he seems to be struggling to find the words.

He can’t even bring himself to say it. Coward.

“I see. Good night, Thief.”

***

Your return flight is booked for the day after tomorrow, and there’s no way you could afford a last-minute ticket for an earlier departure. As you complete your nighttime routine and slip into the guest bed, you resolve to make the most of an unexpected solo day in Paris, looking up current exhibitions and shows at the city’s various museums and galleries. 

You take a herbal sleeping tablet, just in case, and turn off the light.

When you wake in the morning, you find that your pillow is damp from the tears you wept in the night.

His bedroom door is still firmly closed as you pad down the hallway and to the main door. Exploiting you or not, he’d made it clear that he didn’t need you for today, the final stage in his plan. There’s a spare keyfob in the drawer of the small hall console table. You slip it in your bag and head out of the apartment and into the city.

***

Museums afford a kind of sanctuary: a quiet space for meditation, reflection, imagination, escape. On a day like today, they enclose you in a safe, comforting cocoon of art and beauty, helping to shield you from the world outside - and from the raging storm of your own thoughts and worries.

You flash your work ID at the entrance to the Petit Palais and are waved through, past the lines of tourists, by virtue of the international reciprocal entry schemes for museum staff. The current temporary show, on Paris in the first decades of the twentieth century, is just what you need by way of distraction, and you lose yourself in artwork after artwork, in no hurry to return to the apartment. 

At the museum’s garden café, you take your time over coffee and cake, occasionally joined by a tiny songbird who seems hell-bent on helping himself to your snack. His daring raids on your slice of carrot cake help to stop your mind from wandering back to the apartment, to him, and to his journey back to the chateau.

***

He’s gone when you get back. Just an envelope on the counter, addressed to you. Normal service, you think, resumed at last.

Chérie,

As planned, I’ve returned to the Deseine estate to finish what we started. I intend to return later tonight, or in the early hours, but promise me that if I do not return, you will take the flight tomorrow evening. 

You must not look for me. Promise me that.

I hope that I might see you before you leave, one way or the other. 

Know that I care for you, chérie. 

Midnight comes and goes with no sight or sound of him.

One. Two. Three. Nothing.

You close your eyes and force yourself to sleep.

***

He whispers to you in your dreams, over and over. He calls out to you. 

“Chérie?”

You open your eyes. In the half-light, you see him. Hair mussed, eyes wide, face streaked with dirt, stripped to the waist. 

He feels real to the touch: warm, solid, the softness of his middle, the strength of his arms and shoulders. His beard bristles so realistically under your lips that you could almost believe he was there.

“Chérie, I’m here. I’m back. I’m with you.”

Instinctively, you wrap your arms around him and pull him to you, wordlessly peppering his face with kisses before he wriggles down and nestles his head against your chest, holding you tight to him.

He seems unsettled, distressed, even. Perhaps it had been a narrow escape. Perhaps something had gone wrong. 

No matter. You envelop him with warmth and protection. The way he clings to you, needs you, starts to provide an answer to your questions about the nature of his feelings.

You kiss the top of his head and stroke the scruff on the side of his jaw. He pulls away for a moment to look up at you, all softness and awe and warmth. He motions as if to say something, then stops, pensive, and reaches up to kiss your mouth.

“My name is Alejandro.”

Find out more about the Lalique cire perdue technique here!

If you'd like to read more about the great Jewish art collecting families of pre-war France, I strongly recommend James McAuley's The House of Fragile Things and Edmund de Waal's Letters to Camondo.

[ghanatrails]

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[nilesdaughter]

Wrapped in Love

Fandom: Critical Role Characters: Percy De Rolo, Vex'ahlia Pairing: Perc'ahlia Word Count: 1,065 Note: Yes, I know Perc'ahlia Week 2024 is coming up in a month--and I should be focusing on those prompts--but I've been trying to finish up what I didn't for the 2023 prompts. This one in particular was fighting me, but I finally got it to a point where I don't hate it.

[Also found on AO3.]

X-X-X-X-X

Aside from her obvious love for her archery lessons, Vex’ahlia looked back on her woodworking lessons with some level of fondness. They were not something she’d had the opportunity to do often, as Syldor focused more on the twins’ academic and martial studies rather than their artistic pursuits, but they put her at ease in much the same way that archery did, surrounding her with the comforting scent of wood even when she was indoors.

She naturally fell out of practice when she and Vax’ildan abandoned Syngorn, since she lacked access to the full range of necessary tools while they traveled. She picked up small projects where she could just to fill the idle moments, but her woodworking—limited as it was—became delegated to creating more arrows when she couldn’t buy them and carving small personalizing details into her bow. Even when Vox Machina earned Greyskull Keep, she still didn’t get a proper chance to return to it, since it took several months for the keep to be constructed and then their ordeals with the Briarwoods and the Chroma Conclave kept them away from their new home.

It wasn’t until Vox Machina spent some time away from each other that she could actually pick the craft up once more. As she and Percy settled more into Grey Hunt manor—her manor—they curated a workshop space for him, giving him an excuse to spend more time in her vicinity. (Not that he really needed an excuse, of course, but it was one of the reasons he gave Cassandra when she refused to stop needling him about it.) Over time, though, Vex eventually intruded on what she considered his space by installing a small workbench for her own tools, obtained gradually over the first few months of their break. She still didn’t turn to woodworking often, as she did have to focus on her Grey Hunt duties, but in the quiet moments where Percy was holed up in the workshop and she wanted the benefit of his quiet company, she would sit near him and cut and carve and shape the wood into more “frivolous” items.

She started small, carving small details and curling shapes along the curve of Fenthras, sprawling out from where she had made careful, tiny letters out of ‘sinaeth’ as she made the Vestige hers and hers alone. Eventually, she allowed herself to graduate to larger projects: a small bear the size of her palm, a simple trinket box where she began to keep her Earring of Whisper when she wasn’t actively wearing it, a panel of the De Rolo family crest that she hung above the mantle in the main sitting room of the manor. When she regained some confidence in her hands and her skills, she turned her attention to a more complex trinket box, using different woods from across Exandria to represent all the places she and Percy had seen together, determined to create something for the man that spoiled her with his own creations.

x-x-x-x-x

“Darling?” Vex called with a light trio of taps on the doorframe of the workshop.

“Hmmm?” Percy pushed his work goggles up onto his forehead and glanced her way. “Yes, dear?”

“I have something for you.”

“Oh?” His brow furrowed a little in confusion, like he was trying to figure out what the occasion might be.

She nodded, almost hesitant and shy in the gesture. “May I?”

“Of course, dear,” he replied readily.

Vex smiled faintly and crossed the room, holding the completed box—wrapped in dark blue paper—behind her back. Once she stood next to Percy, she set the package down in the spot he had cleared for her on the workbench surface; he seemed even more confused and glanced at her in curiosity.

“Well, go on and open it, darling.”

He nodded slowly and returned his attention to the package, careful and meticulous as he unwrapped the paper. He revealed the most complex section of it—the various wood types carefully cut and arranged to portray a landscape view of Whitestone as she often saw it from one of her favorite hidden spots within the Parchwood—and ran his shaking fingers along the edge of the lid.

“Is this what you’ve been working on when you’ve been spending time in the workshop?” he asked.

“Yes,” she replied with a small nod. “You always make such wonderful trinkets for me, darling, and I felt it would only be appropriate to return the favor.”

Percy seemed to be at a genuine loss for words, silent as he looked the box over. The longer the silence stretched on, the more anxious that Vex began to feel, a small and distant part of her remembering the time Syldor had discarded a pipe that she had put hours of work into as a gift to him. Before her thoughts could truly spiral, Percy let out something of a soft laugh as he glanced up at her again.

“You didn’t have to do this, you know.”

Vex smiled, trying not to let her relief show in her posture nor expression. “I didn’t have to, but I wanted to. And I thought that you might enjoy something practical rather than purely decorative.”

Percy’s expression softened (oh, how she loved that he only looked at her so) as he said, “I believe it actually serves both purposes, dear. It’s lovely work.”

Vex blinked, startled by the praise. “Oh…! Well… thank you for saying that, darling.”

He tilted his head before he frowned slightly. “You are aware that I’m being genuine, dear? I’m not merely spouting niceties?”

Vex didn’t answer, unsure of how she felt about him knowing exactly what he had inadvertently hit upon, even if that perceptiveness was one of the reasons she cherished him so deeply.

Percy sighed a little and set the box back down on the workbench before reaching out to take both of her hands in his, his tremor seeming to calm as he held onto her. “I do love the box, dear. It’s beautiful and speaks to a skill I did not realize you had. And I’m flattered that you spent so much time and effort on something for me.”

She offered him a shaky smile and, in return, he leaned down to press a kiss to her brow.

“Thank you, Vex’ahlia,” he reiterated when he pulled away. “Truly.”

“You’re welcome, darling.”

[missywritesfor7]

❤️‍🩹Lifeline | MYG❤️‍🩹

Synopsis: It’s long been controversial for idols to date, but idols dating each other can be really beautiful or a complete nightmare. When Yoongi's relationship with another idol is discovered, he decides maybe it’s time to break the taboo and show people it’s ok for idols to date. Instead, they find themselves caught in the midst of one media frenzy after another and struggle to keep their relationship as strong as it had been the past 2 years. Yoongi finds a self destructive way to cope, and it causes even more problems than it solves. As they fight for their relationship and their careers, they discover that sometimes, the only way to truly be free is to let go.

Pairing: idol!Yoongi x idol!OC

Warnings: nsfw, alcoholism, cheating, depression, anxiety, Yoongi goes through a bisexy ho phase, Yoongi is also in his alcoholic phase, post-military BTS

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Ch. 38: Drip

The tour has been going great so far. The two shows in New York were full of energy which set off a great start to the US leg of the tour. Before they knew it they had already played 5 shows in 4 cities across the eastern part of the country. That also means Hyeri has also received 4 packages of gifts and treats so far and she can’t wait for the next one.

The guy’s next stop is Chicago. Another sold out show and a few events and gatherings are on their schedule for their time here. They gave themselves an extra day of freedom in the city for a bit of rest and recovery as this is the midpoint of their US travels.

Yoongi is excited. He never stopped being excited since day 1. He and Hyeri have spoken everyday as much as possible. Hyeri’s drama will be premiering the following week so she’s been on the promo circuit, but she answers every one of Yoongi’s messages as soon as she can get to it.

The day before their show in Chicago, the guys are at a reception held at a gallery for an exhibit that was inspired by them and their music. They meet the artist and everyone with the gallery who is responsible for making this happen. There’s a brief ceremony where the artist, curators, and gallery owner and executives will say a few words and officially open the exhibit for its 3 month tenure at that location. At the same time, the grand opening is being live streamed across all of the gallery’s social media accounts. It feels intimate, but there are a lot of eyes watching.

The guys feel honored and sit in the front row of seats before a small podium on a low stage with smiles across their 7 faces. Everyone who speaks at the podium gives them high praise for all they’ve done musically and otherwise. At the end, everyone who spoke returns to the stage for a toast. The guys are invited to join them in front of the small crowd of people and cameras as the men of honor.

The guys weren’t expecting to be called up to the stage, but they go along in stride, albeit a little nervous. Yoongi smiles along standing right in the middle between Hobi and Taehyung. Out of the corner of his eye he notices one of their managers quickly step away as if something urgent came up. He continues smiling not wanting to look as if something were wrong. For all he knows it could be nothing.

For now, nothing will have to wait because Yoongi finds himself suddenly being handed a glass of champagne. A toast isn’t complete without a drink. A drink only the 7 of them and management knows could be a problem. Unfortunately the problem wasn’t noticed until too late. The manager Yoongi saw leave has returned with a look of defeat in his eyes. The manager mouths a silent apology from across the room letting Yoongi know his urgent retreat was to try and save Yoongi from the surprise beverage, but unfortunately he was too late.

The spontaneous toast leaves Yoongi standing paralyzed as more praises are piled on to the group. The longer they draw this out the harder it is for him to maintain his fake smile and keep his hands from shaking.

It’s just a small glass of champagne. It’s practically water.

Taehyung and Hobi notice Yoongi’s struggle and are unsure themselves of what to do. This is live and even the slightest change in facial expressions could send the rumor mill spiraling out of control. The other guys haven’t quite turned to notice Yoongi’s struggle, though they’re aware that this champagne no doubt has him in a dilemma.

There could be millions of people watching right now.

This tour has been perfect so far. All rumors of Yoongi being on drugs or an alcoholic are a thing of the past. Any mention of Chelsea or any other person he encountered during that last tour has practically disappeared. It’s been great. He can’t do anything that could possibly bring that wave of torment back. Not now. Not in front of millions.

The quicker you do it the quicker it will be over with.

“…we’re honored to have you join us today. Cheers!”

“Cheers!”

Everyone raises their glasses and without another thought Yoongi quickly puts his to his mouth and takes a drink. In that brief moment he felt as if he had no control of himself. He felt like a spectator of his life and couldn’t do anything about it. Yet the moment the sparkly beverage hit the back of his throat his consciousness was sucked back into his body and he quickly pulled the glass from his lips. The sound of applause gradually breaks through his momentary deafness and he remembers where he is. Through a mix of muscle memory and stress induced autopilot he instinctively follows Namjoon’s lead. Namjoon is clapping so Yoongi claps. Namjoon is smiling so Yoongi smiles. Namjoon bows and walks off to the side where managers are waiting, Yoongi follows on his heels. Namjoon finishes his glass of champagne, and Yoongi nearly tosses his to their manager as if it were a scalding hot ball of metal.

“Hyung,” Jimin says trying to get Yoongi to slow down.

“Car,” Yoongi mumbles heading towards the exit.

Jimin quickly follows him giving the rest of the guys a nod to ask they give the two of them a moment. Jimin can hardly keep up with Yoongi, and a couple of managers and security are hardly able to keep up with both of them. Yoongi throws the door of the SUV open and crawls to the back with Jimin closing the door behind them and sitting next to him.

“Hyung,” Jimin says again.

“I didn’t know what to do,” Yoongi says with his head in his hands. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry I shouldn’t have-“ he sucks in a sharp breath. “I messed up.”

“It’s ok,” Jimin assures wrapping his arm around Yoongi’s shoulders. “You didn’t mess up, you did the best you could in the situation and I think you did a really good job.”

Yoongi slowly lifts his head out of his hands and the moment his eyes meet Jimin’s he begins tearing up. Something about Jimin’s gentle nature, caring tone, and soft touch never fails to break Yoongi down.

“I’m sorry,” Yoongi cries again.

“Don’t be,” Jimin smiles. “I’m proud of you, hyung.”

Yoongi wants to cry more but he notices the rest of the guys exiting the building. He takes a deep breath, wipes his tears, and looks at Jimin with a nod of gratitude. Jimin chuckles at Yoongi’s habit of transforming into his hardened self when he’s trying to avoid the embarrassment of showing his emotions. The guys have seen him emotional many times, yet like a game of roulette, it’s a gamble whether he’ll let it ride out or harden his shell back up at some point.

Namjoon and Jin both enter the SUV while the others load up into a second one waiting behind. No one is sure what to say at the moment. Jin and Namjoon can tell Yoongi was just crying but they’re not sure they should bring anything up right now.

“Are you ok?” Namjoon asks softly. He doesn’t want to put Yoongi on the spot or try to get him to talk if he doesn’t want to, but he at least needs to know that he’s ok.

“Yeah,” Yoongi replies quietly. Namjoon isn’t convinced but he nods and leaves the ride to continue on in silence.

The guys all planned to go out for dinner together so they have about 3 hours to spare after returning to their hotel. An entire 3 hours for Yoongi the pace the floor in panic, fight nausea, cry into a pillow, then finally send Hyeri a distress signal asking her to call if she’s free.

Hyeri is home getting a bit of rest before going out for another day of interviews promoting her new show. She’s lounging across the couch sucked into a video on her phone when Yoongi’s message comes through. Her heart immediately begins racing fearing the worst possible scenarios. She calls him right away and can’t stop herself from spitting out a slew of panicked questions the moment he picks up.

“Is everything ok? What happened? Are you ok?” She asks rapidly.

“I’m so sorry,” he cries through the phone. “I fucked up and I’m so sorry. I-I didn’t know what to do so I just had a sip but I feel fucking terrible because I let you down again.”

“What?” She asks trying to make sure she heard correctly. “Slow down, Yoongi. What happened?”

“They had champagne and they did a toast and I didn’t know what to do. There were so many cameras, Hyeri. I didn’t want people to talk. Not again and definitely not now. Hyeri I had a sip so no one would think anything was out of the ordinary but I hated it. I fucked up so bad,” he exasperates.

“Yoongi, sweetie, take a breath.” While this isn’t exactly the worst she thought would be happening, she still feels a small bit of disappointment. He seems very remorseful now, but what happens if he falls to the temptation again? The very thing she feared before he left home weeks ago.

“I’m so sorry.” He takes a deep breath, then another. “I fucked up. I’m so sorry for letting you down. It was only a little-“

“Yoongi,” she quietly interrupts. “Switch to video.”

“What?” He asks confused but doing as told anyway.

The video connects and Hyeri can see he’s been crying. The panic and distress on his face is clear to her and it only breaks her heart.

“I’m right here, love,” she says compassionately. Her only goal right now is to ease him and she knows he usually feels better when he can see her.

“I-I…” he stutters then takes a deep breath. Seeing her glow through the phone screen is exactly what he needed. Not just seeing her, but seeing her looking totally fine. She’s clearly concerned about him and seeing that on her face rather than the anger or sadness he was expecting to see from her makes his chest feel lighter. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s ok, Yoongi. I just want make sure you’re ok.”

Yoongi nods while still focused on her. While it’s nearly night time in Chicago, the brightness of the Seoul morning is like the sunshine after a storm. He wipes his tears and takes one more deep breath. His heart is finally slowing a bit and the fog of panic is starting to dissipate.

“You’re doing great,” Hyeri smiles. “I’m proud of you and I really appreciate you being honest with me.”

Just like Jimin’s words in the car, Hyeri’s words give him an added layer of assurance that he definitely needed. Hearing the people he loves say that they’re proud of him at a time he thought he truly fucked up is such a refreshing feeling.

“You and Jimin,” he says cracking a small smile. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“I’m sure you’d be fine,” she jokes making him feel even more lighter.

“Not at all. I have the best support, I just feel so stupid for not talking to you the last time. I almost lost you all.”

“We almost lost you,” she stresses. “All I want is for you to be honest with me, and I’m glad you did that.”

“I always will.” He pauses hearing the voices in the hall. The guys are gathering for dinner and Yoongi realizes he’s likely the last one to join them. “I wish I could talk more but we’re going out for dinner.”

“It’s fine, I have to leave soon too,” she says. “I’ll try to text you before it gets too late over there.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

They end the call and Yoongi rushes out to join the others feeling much more happier than he did 3 hours ago. The shift in mood makes the rest of the guys feel better as well. They weren’t sure what state Yoongi would be in, but it seems he’s back to his normal self.

Hyeri gets herself ready to leave with a mix of emotions swirling through her head. She’s glad Yoongi was honest about having a drink. She’s glad the call ended with smiles and not tears. But she’s so afraid of that champagne turning into wine, then beer, then whiskey, and whatever else.

When her manager picks her up she can’t help but search for video from the gallery while sitting in the backseat. He was in such a panic that she can’t help but think he inhaled the entire glass or something. However, she watches the video and sighs in disbelief. For Yoongi that moment lasted two lifetimes. For Hyeri, and everyone else on the outside, the moment was only a split second. Hyeri replayed the video 3 times just to make sure she was seeing correctly. It’s hardly noticeable that Yoongi even swallowed any of the drink, and some comments from fans are joking that Yoongi must not have liked the champagne because he didn’t take a drink. Hyeri shakes her head and smiles. This is much better than any scene she created in her head. She can understand why he felt pressured in that moment, but to anyone else it’s not even noticeable that he was having an issue. For the first time in what feels like ages, Hyeri feels like she can trust him a little more.

[Hyeri]: My Yoongi I just watched the video.

[Hyeri]: You have nothing to worry about. You did very well and I’m so proud of you! I love you 😘

Yoongi sees her message while he and the guys are discussing what to order at the pizza place they decided on. The 7 of them are deep in discussion on culinary preferences when Yoongi goes silent only staring at his phone with a goofy smile. He taps a quick response and looks up to notice 6 pairs of eyes focused on him.

“What?” Yoongi asks feeling overcome with embarrassment.

“You look so cute,” Hobi teases.

“Can we order now?”

“Like a cute grandpa,” Jimin giggles.

“Are we getting 2 or 3 pizzas?” Yoongi asks still trying to change the subject.

“If you were paying attention you would know,” Namjoon smiles. “I’m glad you’re ok though.”

Everyone nods in agreement. Namjoon doesn’t have to specify what he means, and for the sake of keeping the mood light as it just was, he certainly didn’t want to either. However as the leader he is, he felt it still needed to be mentioned as a way to tell Yoongi that they’re all there for him and no one is upset with him. At the same time, Yoongi’s nod and smile in response is what they all need to confirm that all is well and they don’t need to worry. It’s a silent conversation that can only be held telepathically between 7 people who have spent nearly half their lives together.

After that brief moment everyone returns to poking fun at each other and discussing what they plan to do with their free time after tomorrow’s show. Aside from his usual routine of buying everything he sees for Hyeri, Yoongi is also wanting to use that time to plan that two week vacation that he was very serious about taking her on. Somehow he also got talked into joining Taehyung and Jungkook on a quest to find a burger restaurant that Taehyung learned about that’s supposed to be the best among locals.

The night goes on with all smiles and good vibes. Yoongi has missed the time spent trying local foods and enjoying the company of his brothers. He can’t even remember any of the meals they had together the previous tour because he was so far from reality all of the time. Now he feels like he’s taken a breath of fresh clean air after breathing smoke for so long. He’s present and alert and so very happy.

[s7ray-cat]

PSA for any LGBTQ2IA+ people traveling abroad

This is a link to the LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index

(Disclaimer: These are excerpts from an article I found)

These are some tools to find safe places to travel for LGBTQ2IA+ people:

LGBTQ-specific travel news and safety basics

U.S. State Department ✈ A section of this government-run online resource offers basic pointers for LGBTQ travelers such as travel document checklists, general safety tips, and information about travel insurance and various U.S. embassy locations.

Equaldex ✈ Launched in 2014, this interactive map-anchored website keeps a running tab on LGBTQ rights–related laws around the world via a global network of user contributions.

National Center for Transgender Equality ✈ This Washington, D.C.–based advocacy organization addresses information relevant to gender-nonconforming and transgender travelers. It features a particularly comprehensive guide to airport security that addresses concerns related to potentially intrusive TSA screening procedures.

OutRight Action International ✈ Formerly known as the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, this nonprofit publishes news, studies, and reports on LGBTQ issues around the world that can help travelers stay informed about safety in various destinations.

Erasing 76 Crimes ✈ Journalist and LGBTQ advocate Colin Stewart heads up this news-oriented blog that spotlights global developments related to LGBTQ rights spanning countries across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas.

GoAbroad’s LGBTQ Study Abroad Guide✈ For queer students interested in studying abroad, this PDF provides a wealth of information, including tips for coming out to a host family, LGBTQ-specific scholarships, and a list of queer-friendly study abroad programs.

LGBTQ-friendly accommodations and services

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association ✈ This website acts as a one-stop-shop for all things related to LGBTQ travel planning. It brings together a massive network of queer-approved hotels, transportation providers, tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, event promoters, and local media in over 80 countries worldwide; it also maintains recommendation-based travel and business blogs.

Purple Roofs ✈ An LGBTQ mainstay since the late ’90s, this booking website showcases small, family-owned bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, vacation rentals, inns, and tour companies worldwide. It also hosts a variety of related travel resources, including event listings and a dedicated LGBTQ travel blog.

World Rainbow Hotels ✈ This modern travel directory combines a curated list of stylish, queer-friendly hotels in countries where attitudes toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans travelers are for the most part accepting. The website also features an image-driven blog full of travel inspiration, global news, events, and other articles.

Travel Gayand Travel Gay Asia ✈ These twin booking sites serve a predominantly gay male audience, pointing international travelers to city guides with relevant information about bars, clubs, saunas, shops, beaches, and events, as well as queer-friendly hotels across the globe.

GayCities ✈ A similarly gay male–focused online travel guide, this web resource recommends gay-friendly bars, clubs, restaurants, hotels, shops, gyms, and more in 238 different cities from Cape Town to Mexico City.

In addition to explicitly LGBTQ outlets, you can now find pages dedicated to LGBTQ consumers on mainstream online travel booking sites like Expedia and Orbitz. Queer-oriented promotions and packages are also often offered by big-name hotels such as Marriott and Kimpton.

LGBTQ-specialized tour operators and agencies

LGBTQ-friendly tour operators for organized trips

For LGBTQ travelers who’d rather leave trip planning to the experts, award-winning tour operators such as Outstanding Travel, Zoom Vacations, Out Adventures, Toto Tours, Detours Travel, and Concierge Travel all offer a diverse array of international group and private trips. International tour operator R Family Vacations also designs and leads LGBTQ family-friendly trips (plus a few new adults-only options) on land and at sea for public groups and individuals. The queer-run wilderness education organization, The Venture Out Project, operates LGBTQ-specific backpacking trips in the United States for teens, adults, and families.

LGBTQ-friendly cruises

Inclusive travel company Vacaya hosts curated LGBTQ getaways on chartered cruise ships, as well as to all-LGBTQ international resorts. The popular lesbian travel brand Olivia Cruises has been running entertainment-filled cruise, resort, adventure, and riverboat group trips exclusively for queer female–identified travelers since 1990. And cruise company Source Events, which caters predominantly to gay men and their families, organizes both all-gay charters and private LGBTQ groups aboard larger cruise ships (as well as personalized cruise journeys and on-land group itineraries).

Related Free Travel Apps to Download Before Your Next Trip

LGBTQ-friendly travel and networking apps

From joining queer-specific networking groups, to checking for upcoming LGBTQ events in different cities, to starting important conversations about shared experiences through hashtags such as #travelingwhiletrans, LGBTQ travelers have long relied on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter when planning for domestic and international trips. More recently, meetup apps have created new opportunities for connection between LGBTQ travelers.

Apps (available on iOS and Android)

Meetup ✈ This stalwart community-building platform is a great tool for connecting with fellow LGBTQ folks and getting to know local queer scenes on the road. The “LGBTQ Meetups” section points app users toward various happy hours, professional networking events, book clubs, and hiking groups, as well as playgroups for LGBTQ parents.

SCRUFF Venture ✈ Gay dating app SCRUFF recently launched a travel-oriented edition aimed at making it easier to connect with LGBTQ people “before and while you travel.” By clicking into one of the app’s 500-plus destinations, users can view members marked as “visiting now” or “visiting soon” in each given location. The app also provides travel tips from city “Ambassadors” (members who volunteer to give advice and recommendations to visitors), plus updates about LGBTQ issue–related travel advisories.

Refuge Restrooms ✈ This important resource for trans, intersex, and gender-nonconforming individuals maps out safe restrooms in various countries around the world, which users can search for based on proximity to a location.

Related Seeing the World Through Rainbow-Colored Glasses

LGBTQ-focused travel magazines and blogs

Magazines

Out Magazine’s online outpost Out Traveler covers everything from luxury LGBTQ-friendly hotels and nightlife hot spots to the latest must-have gadgets for jet-setters. Passport Magazine, available in both digital and print formats, touches upon a wealth of topics related to LGBTQ travel, with sections devoted to food and drink, hotel reviews, product roundups, and events. Also worth checking out is Connextions Magazine, which compiles long-form hotel reviews, human interest stories, destination guides, and other global lifestyle content relevant to LGBTQ travelers. (The print and digital publication also has a Spanish edition.)

Although not their main focus, many widely circulated LGBTQ lifestyle outlets like the Advocate, Curve, Autostraddle, Diva, and Chill also feature travel-related news, commentary, city guides, hotel reviews, profiles, and more.

Blogs

Touted as “a lifestyle blog for men and other stylish travelers,” the popular blog Travels of Adam hosts op-eds and personal essays, LGBTQ travel tips and hacks, and restaurant, bar, and hotel reviews in destinations from Egypt to England. Married couple Auston and David head up another gay male–focused travel blog called Two Bad Tourists, which features navigating international gay-friendly destinations, festivals, and events.

On the queer female travel blog Dopes on the Road, you can expect to find a wide range of content, from travel diaries and safety tips to pop culture commentary. Beautiful photo galleries, travel journals, LGBTQ profiles and interviews, travel tips, and destination guides dominate Once Upon a Journey, a helpful travel blog from lesbian couple Roxanne Weijer and Maartje Hensen.

[jameelamassagecenter]

Best Massage Center In Ajman

In the heart of Ajman lies a sanctuary of serenity, where weary souls find solace and tired muscles discover rejuvenation. Jameela Massage Center In Ajman stands tall as a beacon of tranquility, offering a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape, Jameela Spa Ajman beckons with promises of unparalleled relaxation and therapeutic bliss.

A Haven of Healing Hands:

At Jameela Massage Spa Ajman, the art of massage transcends the mundane and transforms into a holistic healing experience. Stepping into the center, visitors are greeted by a soothing ambiance that immediately washes away stress and tension. The ambiance is carefully curated to evoke a sense of calmness, with soft lighting, tranquil music, and the subtle fragrance of essential oils permeating the air.

What truly sets Jameela spa apart is its team of skilled therapists, whose hands possess an innate ability to soothe both body and soul. Trained in various massage techniques from around the world, these professionals customize each session to address the unique needs of every client. Whether it’s a traditional Swedish massage to ease muscle tension or a therapeutic deep tissue massage to target specific areas of discomfort, Jameela’s therapists deliver with precision and expertise.

A Symphony of Services:

Jameela Massage Center Sharjah offers a diverse range of massage therapies, each designed to promote relaxation, alleviate pain, and enhance overall well-being. From the gentle strokes of a hot stone massage to the invigorating pressure of a Thai massage, there’s something for everyone at Jameela.

For those seeking ultimate indulgence, the center also offers luxurious spa packages that combine multiple treatments for a truly transformative experience. Whether it’s a couples retreat or a solo escape, these packages provide a blissful journey of relaxation and renewal.

Commitment to Excellence:

What truly sets Jameela spa apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of its operation. From the quality of service to the cleanliness of the facilities, every detail is meticulously attended to, ensuring that each visitor leaves feeling refreshed, revitalized, and utterly satisfied.

Moreover, Jameela prioritizes the well-being of its clients above all else, adhering to the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation. In today’s world, where health and safety are paramount, this dedication to cleanliness provides added peace of mind for visitors seeking a safe and secure environment.

A Testament to Tranquility:

As word of Jameela’s excellence spreads far and wide, it has become more than just a massage center—it’s a testament to tranquility in the heart of Ajman. Whether you’re a local resident in need of a quick escape or a visitor seeking a moment of relaxation amidst your travels, Jameela welcomes you with open arms and promises an experience like no other.

[sikkimtourpackage]

Conquer the Himalayas: A Trekker’s Dream Adventure

The Himalayas, often referred to as the "Roof of the World," is a breathtaking mountain range that stretches across five countries: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and profound cultural heritage, the Himalayas beckon travelers from around the globe. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines natural beauty, spiritual enrichment, and thrilling experiences, a Himalayan Tour Package is the perfect choice for you. This article explores the various aspects of traveling to this majestic region and why a Himalayan tour should be on your travel bucket list.

Why Choose a Himalayan Tour Package?

When it comes to exploring the Himalayas, opting for a Himalayan Tour Package has numerous advantages. Firstly, a well-curated package takes care of all the logistics, allowing you to focus on experiencing the beauty and culture of the mountains. From accommodations to meals, transportation, and guided tours, everything is planned for you. This not only saves you time but also ensures a seamless experience, especially in a region where navigating the terrain can be challenging.

Additionally, a Himalayan Tour Package often includes experienced guides who are well-versed in the local culture and geography. They can provide insights and stories that enhance your understanding of the places you visit, making your journey even more enriching.

Destinations to Explore

The Himalayas are home to numerous breathtaking destinations, each offering unique experiences. Some of the must-visit places included in most Himalayan Tour Packages are:

Leh-Ladakh: Famous for its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, Leh-Ladakh is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. From the serene Pangong Lake to the thrilling Khardung La Pass, the region offers plenty of trekking, camping, and biking opportunities.

Manali: Nestled in the Kullu Valley, Manali is a popular hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture. A Himalayan Tour Package to Manali typically includes visits to Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and the ancient Hadimba Temple.

Shimla: The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is renowned for its colonial architecture and panoramic views. Visitors can stroll along the Mall Road, visit the Christ Church, and explore the surrounding hills.

Rishikesh and Haridwar: Known as the spiritual hubs of India, Rishikesh and Haridwar attract pilgrims and adventure seekers alike. A Himalayan Tour Package to this region often includes yoga retreats, river rafting, and visits to ancient temples.

Nepal: The Himalayan range in Nepal is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. Trekking packages to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit are popular among adventure lovers.

Cultural Experiences

One of the highlights of a Himalayan Tour Package is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The region is home to a diverse range of communities, each with its own traditions, festivals, and cuisines. Whether you’re attending a local festival, participating in a traditional dance, or enjoying a meal with a local family, you’ll find that the hospitality of the Himalayan people is unmatched.

Many Himalayan Tour Packages also include visits to ancient monasteries and temples. These sacred sites offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region and are often located in breathtaking settings, surrounded by towering peaks and lush valleys.

Adventure Activities

For adventure enthusiasts, the Himalayas are a playground offering a myriad of activities. From trekking and mountaineering to paragliding and river rafting, a Himalayan Tour Package can be tailored to suit your adventurous spirit.

Trekking: The Himalayas boast some of the best trekking routes in the world. Popular treks include the Triund Trek, Valley of Flowers, and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Each trek offers stunning vistas and a chance to connect with nature.

Paragliding: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, paragliding in places like Bir Billing and Manali provides an exhilarating experience of soaring above the mountains.

River Rafting: The rivers flowing down the Himalayan slopes offer thrilling white-water rafting opportunities. Rishikesh is particularly famous for its rafting adventures.

Skiing and Snowboarding: During winter, regions like Auli and Gulmarg transform into winter wonderlands, attracting skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right time for your Himalayan Tour Package is essential to ensure a pleasant experience. The best time to visit the Himalayas largely depends on the specific region and the activities you wish to pursue:

Summer (March to June): This is the peak season for travelers, especially for trekking and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and green.

Monsoon (July to September): While the monsoon brings vibrant greenery, it can also lead to landslides and travel disruptions in some areas. However, this is a great time for cultural festivals.

Autumn (October to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit, with clear skies and breathtaking views. The temperatures are cooler, making it perfect for trekking.

Winter (December to February): Winter in the Himalayas offers a unique charm, especially for those interested in snow sports. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential road closures.

Conclusion

A Himalayan Tour Package promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. With its stunning vistas, rich cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities, the Himalayas are a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for spiritual enlightenment, thrilling adventures, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, the majestic Himalayas await your exploration. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an incredible journey to the roof of the world!

[davidperea-travelart]

No use of AI. Grateful for the great feedback about my work Maidens of the Berlin, Travel & Fashion.

“I feel that each piece creates such an emotional reaction within me. You use such clever compositions and vivid lighting that stimulates the eye and the mind. I really love your “Maidens of the World” collection. Lovely work. “Luft, Maiden of Berlin” is one of my personal favorites, but I find all your work to be fresh and contemporary”

- Leigh Casablancas

Senior Publicist/Curator

NY Arts Magazine.

[tooobjectdinosaur-blog]

Travel to Chola Marvels. This path is uniquely curated featuring #UNESCO world heritage to #Thanjavur https://jvala.travel/paths-of-jvala/chola-marvels/

Travel to Beauty Path An Art, Culture, History camp to #Mahabalipuram While theories of justice, goodness ensure social progress and harmony; theories of beauty develop aesthetic sensibilities. https://jvala.travel/paths-of-jvala/the-beauty-path/

Celebrating ‘Kama’ An Essence of art and life #travel to #Khajuraho. To revel in the metaphysical and esoteric hidden beneath. https://jvala.travel/paths-of-jvala/celebrating-kama/

[asiapioneertravel]

Best Inclusive Vietnam Tour Packages in 2025

Vietnam in 2025 promises to be an extraordinary travel destination where timeless traditions seamlessly blend with modern charm. For those eager to explore the full beauty and diversity of this captivating country, the best Vietnam tour packages offer the ideal way to do so. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie in search of authentic local flavors, these all-inclusive tours cater to every kind of traveler. 

Get ready to embark on a journey that immerses you in the heart of Southeast Asia, creating unforgettable moments and memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Why should you choose a Vietnam tour package?

Convenience

Travel packages handle all logistics, including accommodations, transportation, and meals, allowing you to enjoy Vietnam without the hassle of planning.

Cost-effectiveness  

Bundled deals often offer better value and discounted rates for lodging, transportation, and activities, with clear pricing.

Expert Guidance

Local guides provide valuable insights into historical sites, cultural practices, and hidden gems, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of Vietnam.

Curated Itineraries 

Packages feature well-designed itineraries that balance top attractions with unique local experiences, showcasing Vietnam’s diversity.

Stress-free Travel  

Pre-arranged packages eliminate the stress of navigating language barriers and transportation, offering a relaxed and enjoyable trip.

2. Top 7 inclusive Vietnam tour packages for 2025

2.1. The Very Best of Vietnam (15 days)

The Very Best of Vietnam allows tourists to discover Vietnam’s top attractions. Start with Hanoi’s iconic sites and explore the ethnic villages in northern Sapa. Marvel at Halong Bay’s stunning limestone islands. Visit Danang’s highlights in central Vietnam, stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town, and explore Hue’s historic landmarks. Experience the Cu Chi tunnels and the lively Mekong Delta, before ending your journey in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.

2.2. Vietnam Luxury Tour (13 days)

Luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences are crafted for travelers seeking comfort and style.

Indulge in a luxurious journey through Vietnam with our Vietnam Luxury Tour, designed to offer top-notch service and exceptional experiences. Immerse yourself in the charm of Hanoi, cruise the stunning waters of Ha Long Bay aboard a 5-star ship, and soar back to Hanoi in a unique seaplane. Explore historic landmarks, unwind at a premier beach resort, and stroll through the enchanting streets of Hoi An. Savor an authentic Vietnamese lunch in Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy key attractions, including a luxurious sampan ride through the Mekong Delta’s waterways. Conclude your opulent adventure with a fine dining experience at one of the city’s top restaurants.

2.3. World Heritage Sites of Vietnam (13 days)

Discover UNESCO-listed treasures while learning about their historical significance.

Set off on an extraordinary exploration of Vietnam’s World Heritage Sites, each revealing a unique aspect of the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. Begin with the tranquil beauty of ancient temples, offering insights into Vietnam’s spiritual heritage—Marvel at natural wonders, from majestic mountains and lush valleys to pristine bays and shimmering lakes. Engage with local traditions through festivals, crafts, and cuisine, and uncover hidden underground treasures like intricate cave systems and ancient tunnels, adding adventure and depth to your journey. 

2.4. Vietnam Family Adventure (18 days)

Tailored for families, this package includes fun activities that engage both kids and adults alike

Vietnam Family Adventure offers an immersive experience of Vietnam’s stunning beauty and culture. Begin with a unique exploration of Hanoi on a Russian Minsk Motorcycle, then cruise through Halong Bay’s limestone karsts. Enjoy family-friendly hikes and cycling in Mai Chau and Pu Luong, followed by a sampan ride through Ninh Binh’s caves. Discover local village life in Nam Dinh, explore Hue’s highlights, and enjoy a fun farming day in Hoi An. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s historical sites and the Cu Chi tunnels, and end with a deep dive into the tranquil countryside of Vung Liem (Mekong Delta).

2.5. Vietnam: A Special Honeymoon (18 days)

Celebrate your love with romantic getaways featuring intimate dining and luxurious stays.

Vietnam: A Special Honeymoon provides an enchanting backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime romantic escape. This tour promises newlyweds unforgettable moments with diverse landscapes, rich traditions, and enchanting experiences. Sail through Ha Long Bay’s majestic limestone cliffs, stroll hand-in-hand through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, and relax on Nha Trang’s serene beaches. Explore the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy the tranquil Mekong Delta. Each destination is designed to create lasting memories for couples.

2.6. A Food Lover’s Tour of Vietnam (13 days)

Explore Vietnamese cuisine through guided tastings and cooking classes.

A Food Lover’s Tour of Vietnam is a 13-day journey to savor exceptional Vietnamese cuisine and cultural experiences. Start in Hanoi with iconic ‘Pho,’ vibrant street food, and a cooking class. Enjoy 5-star dining on a Halong Bay cruise and explore Hoi An and Hue’s culinary heritage through artful dishes and hands-on cooking. Experience a street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City with local XO riders and finish in the Mekong Delta, tasting local delicacies while exploring by boat and bike. This tour is ideal for food enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich flavors.

2.7. Vietnam In Depth (30 days)

This package offers deep cultural exchanges and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Vietnam In Depth is a 30-day adventure exploring Vietnam’s rich culture, history, and landscapes. Start with a city tour and cooking class in Hanoi, cruise Ha Long Bay, and cycle through Mai Chau. Visit Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s first Ramsar site, and Phong Nha’s vast caves. Discover Hue, Hoi An, and My Son Sanctuary. Relax on Nha Trang’s beaches, cruise the Mekong River, and end with a tour of Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels. This tour offers an immersive experience of Vietnam’s highlights.

3. What’s Included in the 2025 Vietnam Tour Packages?

Private English-speaking guide

Accommodation

Private tours and transfers

Domestic flights

Air-conditioned train travel

Some main meals

All entrance fees

Taxes and service charges

Let’s experience the magic of Vietnam in 2025 with exceptional tour packages crafted to reveal the country’s rich landscapes, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Why don’t you start to set off on a remarkable voyage and uncover the best of Vietnam like never before?

[mr-fluffy-travel]

Official Announcement: Mr. Fluffy Travel - Mexico Golf Packages! Mr. Fluffy Travel is thrilled to announce the launch of our latest venture into the world of luxury golfing: Mexico Golf Packages. We proudly present an opportunity for golfers worldwide to experience year-round golfing on Mexico’s 50 best golf courses, set in the most breath-taking destinations across the country. Our 15 exclusive Golf Packages have been expertly curated to provide the ultimate golfing experience, with access to top courses in six major golf regions of Mexico. Each package also includes three hotel options to suit your needs: - Top Luxury for those seeking the finest experience, - Luxury for premium comfort, - Economic for affordability without compromise on quality.

This flexibility allows golfers to personalize their stay and enjoy a seamless travel experience. While flights are not included in the package price, we ensure you have access to the lowest airfare options available from your departure location, making your journey to Mexico as convenient as possible. Experience the Best of Mexico Golfing with Mr. Fluffy Travel Discover the beauty of Mexico, indulge in its rich culture, and elevate your game on courses designed by legends. This is more than just golf—it's a journey. Book your exclusive package today and be among the first to experience Mexico’s premier golf courses with Mr. Fluffy Travel. For more information and bookings, visit www.mrfluffy.travel or contact us directly through our social media channels. Let’s golf the world with Mr. Fluffy Travel! Direct link: https://mrfluffy.travel/mrflluffymexicogolfcoursepackages/ Peter - Mr. Fluffy 💙🏌️🌎 Love Golfing the World

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Best Travel Agent in India | 8888849698 

Book Personalized & Customized Holiday Packages with Pune’s Best Travel Agent in India — Destination Holiday Tours Travelling is one experience that each one of us has had in our life. If we take out time to notice we will realize that every time we travel certain factors remain constant and they have a very crucial part to play in the quality of our journey. Transport is one of them which brings in to the picture numerous travel agents and tour operators in India. Try imagining a situation where you have landed at your destination and you cannot find a cab or a taxi to reach at your preferred place of stay. Half your mood is spoilt at the moment and your journey has begun with a frustrated state of mind that will continue to bother you throughout.

Traveling is an art, and finding the right travel agent can make it a masterpiece. In a diverse and culturally rich country like India, where every corner tells a unique story, the quest for the best travel agent becomes an essential step in curating a memorable journey.

For Holidays Enquiry:  Contact 8888849698 / 9822632911  Email: info@destinationholidaytours.com

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Unlock the Wonders of Jammu and Kashmir: Customized B2B Travel Packages

Discover the Enchanting Landscapes and Rich Cultural Heritage of J&K

Jammu and Kashmir, the northernmost union territory of India, is a true gem waiting to be explored. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a team-building adventure, or a strategic business meeting, our carefully curated B2B Packages for Jammu and Kashmir offer the perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cultural experiences, and seamless logistics.

Explore the Top Attractions in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar: Cruise along the serene Dal Lake, marvel at the magnificent Mughal Gardens, and immerse yourself in the enchanting Shikara boat rides.

Pahalgam: Venture into the lush green meadows, go for a thrilling pony ride, and witness the awe-inspiring Betaab Valley.

Gulmarg: Ride the world-famous Gondola cable car, enjoy snow sports in the winter, and embrace the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks.

Leh-Ladakh: Embark on a spiritual journey to the iconic Monasteries, explore the captivating Nubra Valley, and marvel at the enchanting Pangong Tso Lake.

Best Time to Visit Jammu and Kashmir

The ideal time to visit Jammu and Kashmir for B2B travel packages depends on your specific interests and requirements. The region offers year-round attractions:

Spring and Summer (April to September): Enjoy the lush greenery, blooming flowers, and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September to November): Witness the stunning fall foliage and explore the region's vibrant cultural festivals.

Winter (December to March): Revel in the snow-covered landscapes, indulge in winter sports, and experience the cozy charm of the region.

Estimated Travel Cost

The approximate travel cost for a B2B package in Jammu and Kashmir, including transportation, accommodation, and essential activities, can range from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 per person, depending on the package duration, group size, and level of luxury.

Book Your Unforgettable B2B Journey in Jammu and Kashmir Today!

Embark on a transformative B2B travel experience in the enchanting land of Jammu and Kashmir. Contact us now to customize your perfect corporate getaway package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the best way to reach Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir can be accessed by air, rail, and road. The major airports are in Srinagar, Jammu, and Leh, with well-connected domestic flights from major Indian cities.

Q. Is it safe to travel to Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with reputable tour operators. However, it's essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and follow local guidelines.

Q. What is the currency used in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency used in Jammu and Kashmir. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas.

Q. Do I need a special permit to visit Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. A special permit (called an Inner Line Permit) is required to visit certain restricted areas in Ladakh and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Our team can assist you with obtaining the necessary permits.

Q. What are the must-try local cuisines in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its delectable Kashmiri cuisine, including dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Gushtaba, and the iconic Kashmiri Wazwan. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these culinary delights.

Q. Can I combine my B2B trip with leisure activities in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. Absolutely! Our B2B packages can be customized to include a perfect balance of business and leisure activities, allowing your team to experience the best of Jammu and Kashmir.

Q. What are the top adventure activities available in the region?

Ans. Jammu and Kashmir offers a wide range of adventure activities, such as trekking, hiking, white-water rafting, skiing, and snowboarding, depending on the season and location.

Q. Is the infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir suitable for B2B travel?

Ans. Yes, the region has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern hotels, conference facilities, and transportation options, catering to the needs of corporate travelers.

Q. Can I extend my B2B trip to explore other parts of India?

Ans. Certainly! Our B2B packages can be seamlessly integrated with travel plans to explore other captivating destinations across India, creating a truly comprehensive and enriching experience for your team.

Q. How can I book a B2B package for Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans. You can contact our dedicated team of travel experts, who will work closely with you to design a custom B2B package tailored to your specific requirements and budget.

Conclusion

Jammu and Kashmir, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and well-equipped infrastructure, is an ideal destination for B2B travel. Our carefully crafted packages offer the perfect balance of business and leisure, allowing your team to forge stronger connections, boost productivity, and create lasting memories. Embark on an unforgettable journey with us and unlock the wonders of this enchanting region.