"Borgo Del Duka is the culmination of a journey filled with personal growth, professional evolution, and a deep passion for authenticity and beauty. From my early days in education to opening a shop in Bruges, meeting extraordinary people and finally discovering the perfect plot of land in the Valley d'Itria, every step led me to craft this serene and inspiring place.

 

Turning 50 was a milestone that brought a whirlwind of reflections and revelations. I had already met countless people, made lifelong friends, and watched my son, Louis, grow into a remarkable adult. I felt wiser and more introspective, especially about my own professional happiness. 

Before, I was deeply immersed in the world of education. I spent ten years teaching, followed by an ambitious leap into the role of pedagogical advisor. This role had me coaching school teams and directors on educational innovation projects across a specific region. While I enjoyed it, I felt a lack of deeper connections as I moved from one school team to another. Eventually, I became a school director, a role I held for fourteen years. Education is a fascinating field, yet conservatism and tradition often hold sway.

 

At 50, I found myself questioning if I was still 100% happy in this role. I had to admit that something was missing. While I enjoyed developing creative pedagogical projects with my team and watching children flourish, I craved new challenges and the joy that comes with them. Oscar Wilde once said, 'Pleasure is the only thing to live for... Nothing ages like happiness!' This quote resonated with me deeply. My mind was brimming with ideas, and after a heartfelt conversation with my husband, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. "If you think you can do it, you can!" he encouraged me.

 

I began to dream of a retail concept that stood in stark contrast to the online world, which can be fast-paced, impersonal, and often overwhelming. I envisioned a space filled with peace, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for the handmade, the artistic, the sustainable, and the beautifully natural. I wanted to create a haven for those who cherished the simplicity of lines that lead to the most exquisite design pieces.

 

With this vision in mind, I embarked on a journey to find the perfect products and location. I sought out art, sustainable fashion, handmade jewelry, handbags, and the poetic interiors characteristic of brands like Tine K Home. My search also led me to a charming little house at the Minnewater in Bruges. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew this was where I would find ultimate happiness.

 

 

 

 

Seeking pleasure in my travels became another passion. For me, travel is about discovering the authenticity and history of a region, immersing myself in the local culture, and learning about the architecture. I was captivated by the stunning images of Puglia on Instagram, with its quirky trulli and beautiful beaches.

This sparked my curiosity and led me to plan a trip. From the moment I arrived, I felt a deep connection with the people and nature. The hospitality and warmth of the locals, the beauty of the medieval villages, the pure cuisine, and the idyllic beaches all enchanted me. The evening strolls through the narrow alleys of places like Ostuni, with street musicians and a vibrant holiday atmosphere, were magical.

 

 

 

 

Meeting people like Leonard Dodja, Mimmo Venerito, and Davide Specchia was a real turning point. They introduced us to a piece of land that instantly captivated me. Standing on that mountain, with the sounds of nature and a breathtaking view of the Valley d'Itria, I felt an indescribable joy. The trullo with aia, a rare stone circle from the 15th century, added to the enchantment. It was clear that this was my dream place. 

The journey to create Borgo Del Duka is filled with positive memories. The contractor and architects became friends, their work reflecting passion, perseverance, and a deep respect for people and nature. Their craftsmanship and love for artisanal work were evident in every detail. In Puglia, stones are like diamonds. 

Once you stay in Borgo Del Duka, you won't want to leave because what you find is pure happiness and pleasure! It's a place where every stone tells a story, where every corner exudes charm, and where every moment is filled with joy. Give it a try and let the magic of Puglia captivate your heart just as it did mine. Believe me, once you experience it, you'll never want to let go."

- Katrien Bettens, owner of Borgo Del Duka