the hybrid mate

the bad boy

Zola

You know when you feel like hell is about to freeze over and kill everyone, well that is me right now. I have been on a plane for 8 hours now and there is nothing to do up here. I am finally going back home. It has been a long two months away from my friends as my mum and l went travelling the world for the summer holidays. We visited Chad, Cuba, Dominica, France, Estonia, Honduras and Italy. Each of these destinations has its own unique charm and left a lasting impression on my mum and me.

Our first stop was Chad. Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa. Often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, Chad surprised us with its natural beauty and warm hospitality. We visited the capital city N'Djamena, which is situated on the banks of the Chari River. The highlight of our trip in Chad was when we visit the Zakouma National Park, where we were able to spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, and giraffes. We also got a glimpse of the traditional way of life in the villages, which was a humbling experience because it was so different tyen at home. The people of Chad are resilient and welcoming, and we were touched by their kindness.

Our next stop was at Cuba, a Caribbean island known for its vibrant culture, music and architecture was what my mum said when I asked why Cuba. But in the end I saw what she meant. From the colorful streets of Havana to the pristine beaches of Varadero, Cuba has a charm that is hard to resist. We spent our days strolling through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colonial buildings, and indulging in the local cuisine. The highlight of our trip there for me was the visit to the Valley of Viñales, where we were surrounded by lush green hills and tobacco plantations. We also had the opportunity to learn about Cuba's history and revolutionary leaders at the Museum of the Revolution in Havana.

Dominica and as I found out it is also known as the 'Nature Island' of the Caribbean was our third destination. The small island nation was a paradise because of it natural environment. It had untouched rainforests, waterfalls and hot springs. We explored the island on foot, trekking through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park and the Boiling Lake trail. The refreshing dip in the Emerald Pool, a crystal clear waterfall hidden in the heart of the forest was my highlight in Dominica. Mum was also amazed by the vibrant marine life while snorkeling in the Champagne Reef.

France, a country known for its art, fashion and cuisine that is what our travel guide said. We visited Paris the capital city, where we were awestruck by the iconic Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. We also explored the charming villages of the French countryside, where mum indulged in wine tasting and I enjoyed the scenic views. I believe in the end that France truly lives up to its reputation as one of the most romantic and culturally rich destinations in the world.

Estonia, a small Baltic country in Northern Europe, was a pleasant surprise for me. The capital city Tallinn is a perfect blend of medieval and modern, with its well-preserved Old Town and futuristic buildings. I loved the look of it just as much as I loved history. both mum and I were fascinated by the country's strong connection to nature, with over half of its land covered in forests. We also had the opportunity to learn about the country's history and traditions at the Estonian Open Air Museum. My inner nerd loved that I tell you that.

Honduras, a Central American country known apparently for its Mayan ruins, white sandy beaches and diverse wildlife. There we visited the ancient ruins of Copán, it was as if we were transported back in time as we explored the temples and hieroglyphs. Mum also had the chance to relax on the beautiful island of Roatán, known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. It made me sad that I was sick that day and couldn't go.

Our final destination was Italy. We visited the bustling cities of Rome and Florence, where we were surrounded by ancient architecture, art and mouth-watering food. We also explored the picturesque Amalfi Coast, where we indulged in some of the best seafood and gelato. Italy is a dream destination for many, and it truly lived up to its reputation as a country of romance, history and delicious cuisine. But after all that I am glad to finally be home for the last week of summer.

Sorry, I forgot to tell you my name, I'm Zola Carter, I'm seventeen years old. I have a beautiful mum and my dad is funny and caring. Both of my parents are hard working. Like all siblings I wish I was a only child. I have a older brother.

I will be starting my senior year at stone bridge high school. I'm an A+ student I speak four different languages. French, German, English and Spanish. I have lived in Innsbruck my whole life. It has about 160 thousand people living in it and I love the forest and mountain around it.

I work at the animal centre and the child hospital. I love art and photography I have since I can remember. I love to dance and I am on the cheer team. I have two best friends that I care so much about, they are more like a sister then friends.

"Girl you better be ready because we are going to a party," said one of my best friend Emma, she was always the party type.

As I was going to say no she cut me off, "No, I know that look, you are coming if you like it or not". Great not my sarcasm.

I know who's party it was Axel King's the bad boy and star footballer. I know what you are thinking, that he can't be that bad. We'll take it from me as I am his ex BFF that he is no good.

I had known Axel since we were three years old and we use to be close until we both turn sixteen. He became a controlling asshole, he told me one day that I could not date a guy that I like and that was the end of our friendship.

He is turning eighteen this week and like every year he is throwing a party. I look down at my necklace as I hear my friends trying to find me an outfit. Axel had bought me that necklace for my fifteen birthday what is in a month on the 20th of October. It had my birthstones on it opal.

He told me that his mother said if you wear your birthstone that it will bring you joy at the end of your life. That is why I never judge that he wore his birthstone Sapphire around his neck, his eyes were also the same colour. I use to have a crush on him, what am I kidding I still do.

"Omg, yes we have to put her in that, every boy will look at her in this" I heard Lexa say as she came out holding a dark sapphire coloured dress. Come on why.

"Put this on so we can leave," she said as she pushed me towards the bathroom.

"Well, someone is in a rush, do want to go to party or because someone at the party". I teased her, her boyfriend was Axel's best friend so he will be there.

"Come on Zola you know not to tease her about Kai," Emma said. We both laugh when we see her blush. Kaiden or Kai was Alexa's boyfriend since they were sixteen and they are so in love with each other.

"Ooh, really Emma you don't get to judge when you have a crush on a certain bad boy" Emma had this crush on Lucas since we were like twelve.

"Ooh, and don't get me to start on you we all know you still like Axel" Lexa said turning to me.

That was the one thing about Lexa anything you said to her, you had to be ready for her comeback.