Imam Bayildi for Breakfast - Original Work 100 x 80 cm

Original Work | 100x80 cm | Acrylic on Canvas | 2024

From the series: Long Journey

My first real club vacation. Sure, I had been to a classic Robinson Club before for work-related networking events, but I had never really chosen the destination myself.

This time was different. Together with my best friend, we intentionally opted for a club vacation in Turkey, as we were traveling with his two daughters—my godchildren. The Kids Club and the all-inclusive package gave us hope for some time to unwind, play sports, and recharge. Mornings started early with breakfast, followed by intense Padel matches to get our energy flowing.

Normally, traveling for me means exploring new cultures, discovering local cuisine, meeting people from different backgrounds, and immersing myself in the unique flora and fauna of foreign lands. These experiences fuel my creativity and often find their way onto my canvas. But can this kind of inspiration be found in a club vacation?

To some extent, yes—though it does feel like living in a parallel world, detached from the deeper impressions of the country itself. That said, the culinary experience was surprisingly authentic, and I soon found myself starting my mornings with Imam Bayildi—a traditional Turkish eggplant dish—even though I usually prefer yogurt with fruit for breakfast.

In the end, we had a fantastic time, and I definitely understand the advantages of a club vacation for families. But if you truly want to discover a country and its culture, it’s important to keep exploring beyond the resort walls.