Isle of Wight- UK

IOW - Isle Of  Wight UK

To be quite honest with you, I had never heard of the Isle Of Wight until my then boyfriend decided it would be a great idea to meet his family who happen to live there. Here I was, 30 years old and no clue that the physical geography of the UK included two Islands (Isle of Wight and Isle of Man). It was the summer of 2019 when I packed my bags for my first  transcontinental adventure. The idea of a long-haul flight brought with it the anxiety of feeling like a trapped sardine in a tin can. It takes approximately 10 - 12 from Malawi to the UK depending on your routes and layovers. 12 hours, 12 hours in the sky, my mind was plagued with a series of what ifs. What if this is the last time I see my family? What if we crash? What if we miss a connection? As I settled into my business class seat, the extra comfort and amenities provided a welcome distraction, making the lengthy flight more manageable and less claustrophobic.

Landing in Heathrow was like stepping into the scene off Notting Hill- the movie. Everything worked, the lines moved so sensibly. We made our way to the business lounge for a quick shower and change. The next leg of the journey was taking a ferry from Southampton to the Isle of Wight. The ferry ride provided stunning views of the Solent. While on the ride, I was determined to rid myself of the lack of knowledge about the Island. I grabbed as many tourist brochures and devoured them. 

The Isle of Wight is located just off England’s southern coast. It has a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical landmarks. One of the first attractions on my list was the iconic Needles, a series of chalk stacks rising dramatically from the sea. The panoramic views from this vantage point were awe-inspiring. While taking in the view of the island’s rugged coastline from the cable car, I forgot for a moment that I am terrified of heights. 

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ext on my list was the historic Osborne House, the former seaside retreat of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. I had seen what it looked like in the movie Victoria and Addul (2017) but seeing it in real life was a feast for the eyes. Osborne house offered a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Victorian era. The meticulously maintained gardens and grand architecture painted a vivid picture of the island’s royal history. I couldn't believe I was walking the same grounds Queen Victoria walked.  

Carisbrooke Castle was on the list too, a medieval fortress with a rich historical past. This is where King Charles 1 was held prisoner and later executed. The castle has a museum showcasing artefacts from different time periods. Families can enjoy a day out at the castle and watch the jousting shows. I got in on the action and beat on a knight in shining armour (the first one I'd met in real life). 

The quaint villages of the Isle Of Wight transport you to a different time.Shanklin and Godshill, capture the essence of English charm with thatched-roof cottages, bustling markets, and friendly locals. As my 3 week stay on the Isle of Wight came to an end. I felt a small sense of belonging. I wondered to myself why I felt a pull to the Island. It could have been how welcoming my then boyfriend's family was, It could have been the slow pace of life or the fact that being surrounded by water in all directions reminded me of a little Island I myself am from back home in Malawi. Whatever it was, I am grateful I felt it because the Isle Of Wight would soon become a place I visited more than once. 

 4 months after visiting the Isle Of Wight, “the then boyfriend” proposed.