The Courage to Start Over: Estelle’s Journey to a New Life in Yunnan
life story about following dreams agains all adds.
Estelle, me and Ella. Yunnan 2020
Estelle’s story is a remarkable testament to courage and reinvention. At 44, she relized that she wants to change here carrier and unfortunately everyone around was saying she was too old for that. Trusting her instinct, she decided to leave behind her life in France, her stable career as an architect, and the familiarity of home. She wanted to build a life true to herself, one that defied others’ doubts. Her mother’s encouragement stayed with her: “You can do anything you set your mind to.” With this belief, Estelle packed her bags and set out for Yunnan, China, to start from scratch in a Tibetan village.
Arriving in Yunnan was like stepping into a new world. She didn’t just adapt; she immersed herself entirely. She learned how to speak Mandarin, a feat on its own, and how to build a home in the challenging Tibetan landscape. Estelle’s vision was to create an eco-friendly lodge that harmonized with nature, and she designed every detail with that goal in mind. Her architectural skills helped, but the process demanded much more than technical knowledge—it required creativity, perseverance, and a touch of stubbornness.
The house she chose was old and had weathered centuries, so maintenance was essential. Still, Estelle saw its potential, a place where guests from all corners of the world could feel at home. She envisioned a welcoming, sustainable sanctuary, blending Tibetan and French elements. Every nail, beam, and window in the house bore her personal touch, a labor of love and resilience. She showcased the best of local art beautifully mixing simple design and original materials.
But Estelle wasn’t just focused on bricks and mortar. Inspired by the village’s natural beauty and traditions, she decided to try her hand at winemaking. With no prior experience, she delved into the process, bringing her French roots into the Tibetan landscape. Crafting wine became another part of her story—a symbol of her ability to blend two worlds and create something unique. Soon, she was cooking for her guests, hosting lively dinners, and pouring her homemade wine, which she affectionately calls her “labor of love.”
Now, her lodge stands as a testament to her journey, a place that feels like home not only to her but to travelers from around the world. Estelle’s journey reminds us that true courage often means defying expectations to create a life that resonates deeply within. She has built a sanctuary where people feel connected, inspired, and renewed.
