Reizen & Hotspot

MARIE-CLAIRE IN MALIBU

The history of America does not go as far in the history books as it does for us in Europe. Some find that a great loss and ask me if I miss the culture here. Of course, I miss biking through beautiful Amsterdam to the Rijksmuseum with the kids on an ordinary Thursday afternoon and rushing past our favorites just before closing time. Through the Night Watch, past The Threatened Swan to The Great Wave off Kanagawa and then along the ships and the ‘fat little boy’ for the kids. But it's not just the architecture, art, and full history books that make a culture rich. I have delved into the culture of the Native Americans in recent months and man, what a beautifully rich culture with a intense history.

This weekend there is a Pow Wow (gathering) of the Chumash tribe that lived here in Malibu thousands of years ago. Around a fire, beautifully dressed men dance all day. There are stalls with art and all sorts of items: from a dreamcatcher, jewelry, instruments to spears. The people are super friendly and the atmosphere is special. It is a special tradition of a people that deserves a lot of respect, but unfortunately does not always receive it. Even though my roots are not here, I feel incredibly connected to this culture. Almost as if I would have fit right in.