I can’t believe I’m back in London! My time in New York was short but sweet.

I’m lucky to have travelled many countries in my 21 years, however, no holiday has lived up to this. To say I revelled in everything is an understatement! The flight itself was a luxury; the food served in Business class was so delicious I had to take photos! My excitement levels against the people in the cabin staring across from me, proved I wasn’t used to travelling like this regularly.

I must say, I particularly enjoyed the flight! What more could I ask for? A glass of champagne and the viewing of the T.V show Absolutely Fabulous!

F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S darling!

Arriving before midday, at JFK airport, myself and my Mother hopped into a yellow taxi and headed to our 5* hotel. Staying across from Times Square, we were situated in a prime location.

As soon as we arrived, a plan for the course of the week was made of all the sights we wanted to see. I must add it was a flexible plan; there’s nothing I loathe more than a regimented plan for a day!

They say start as you mean to go on; so Monday morning we were up bright and early ready to conquer the day ahead. New York has always been my top travel destination and the first place I wanted to visit was the 9/11 War Memorial.  It’s astonishing to think it will be fifteen years on Sunday since the tragedy.  I was only six when the event occurred so I don’t recall much of it, however since then it has become apparent the scale and impact the tragedy had on many peoples lives. Walking around the memorial and seeing clips of the devastation was heart-breaking. Seeing news readers relaying information they were receiving in their ear piece across to the country was shocking. We spent around four hours in the memorial, astounded by the devastation and pandemonium caused.

In the days that followed, we went on several bus tours; uptown, downtown and Brooklyn, which enabled us to see all the tourist landmarks. It’s a great way to see the sights and get your bearings around the city by sitting on the top of an open deck bus. It’s also a great way to spot any restaurants that pique your interest to visit during your time there.

Wherever I travel, I most enjoy visiting quirky, individual restaurants unique to the place itself. On this trip, however, I must admit we visited Starbucks more than once! There must be at least one Starbucks to every five shops! I’ll be honest, I think it was the Kerry Gold butter that kept us coming back for more…ha-ha. If Starbucks could introduce the best butter in the land to their English coffee shops that’d be great!;)

Starbucks aside, I thought I’d share with you some of my favourite restaurants.  For breakfast it has to be Le Pain Quotidien I recommend. Not only is the interior to my taste, the croissants are divine. It’s a perfect spot for any meal, as it is opposite Bryant Park. This park  has idyllic scenery and you will see many people playing ping-pong and chess! It’s not far to walk from Times Square so it’s worth venturing out to!

For a sweet treat, I’d recommend Magnolia Bakery, featured in Sex&The City. We went to the one on Bleecker Street and I devoured their carrot cake! The banana pudding is another dessert to try! It’s what they’re known for and rightly so! It’s scrumptious.

For lunch or dinner, I would head to Serendipity restaurant. Serendipity is one of my favourite movies so I was especially delighted the food was divine. We were seated upstairs and I ordered the frozen hot chocolate for dessert which was heavenly. It was one of the best meals I had in New York.

For entertainment in the evening, if you’re visiting New York soon, then I’d recommend watching The Color Purple in theatre. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend reading it before viewing the show. It was one of the best shows I have had the pleasure of viewing.

Whilst in New York, we met up with family friends at Soho house. The views from the rooftop are stunning.  As you couldn’t take photo’s inside the house, I took a selfie in the cab on the way there…as you do! The following evening, I went for dinner with two friends I met on a Contiki tour two years ago! Havana Central is a Cuban restaurant you need to visit! Gorgeous cocktails and great food! We then ended up in Juniors for Cheesecake. I’m not a fan of cheesecake but it’s known to be the best kind so worth visiting.

If you’re a lover of karaoke, I’d recommend going to Tonic in Times Square and Pulse Karaoke lounge and Suite!

It’s safe to say I fell in love with New York. It was great to catch up with my NY gals!

 

In three weeks time I’ll be jetting off to New York business class. Fancy, eh!? Well, it’s a far stretch from how I travelled two years ago. On a coach with fifty strangers! Travel is beautiful and so is exploring countries in different vehicles. It adds dimension and a fun element to the overall experience. It’s good to mix it up.

In 2014, I decided to go on a Contiki Tour around Europe. On this trip I met three great friends that I still keep in contact with to this day! In fact, while in New York I’ll be meeting up with two of them who actually live in Manhattan. Travel introduces you to new people you wouldn’t otherwise have met. It’s a rich experience.

Despite visiting many stunning countries in Europe, I fell in love with Switzerland. We spent two days in a stunning village known as Lauterbrunnen. The very name of this village ‘many fountains’ reveals the magnitude of this landscape.  The entire village is picturesque and holds a special place in my heart.

We stayed in Camp Jungfrau, which is an accommodating campsite. What more do you need? A bed to sleep and legs to go and explore the beautiful mountains! ha-ha. Having no WI-Fi on this trip was another bonus I believe. Living completely in the moment and appreciating the views around me was of benefit to me and allowed me to be in the present moment. I cherish the memories of simply walking and running around the mountains for twelve hours straight laughing and loving the freedom of the outdoors!

The trip wouldn’t have been the same without these girls! Without travel, we’d be stuck in our own little bubble. Where’s the fun in that?

Next stop… New York!

 

Located in the Southern part of Portugal, Algarve is a beautiful place to travel to. I recently visited this gorgeous tourist destination for a family reunion.

I stayed at the  5* Riu Guarana hotel. Upon entering, we were greeted with a drink; setting the high standard for the holiday. The hotel is luxurious and has a pool bar which I took full advantage of! If you’re looking for a hassle free, all inclusive holiday, then I would recommend this hotel.

I spent most of my days by the beach breathing in the sea air which I would have happily done for another week! It was a holiday of reflection and one I’ll remember fondly.

In terms of nightlife, I would recommend visiting Symbiosis pub and bar! Only a year old, the décor is modern and stylish. Moreover, the owners are lovely and the cocktails are delicious.

Until next time Portugal X

 

 

Earlier today, I hopped on a train to Totnes. Despising routine, I needed a new environment to study in! I first discovered Totnes in January and instantly fell in love. The narrow lanes and coloured houses add charm to this town.

As soon as I step off the train and onto the platform, I can’t wait to head into the lanes. I love the quirky spirit of Totnes. It’s like their own little world; they even have a Totnes pound! I decided to go to a café called Fat Lemons. It’s located on Ticklemore Street, opposite Country Cheeses. I adore that it is an independently run café that is unique to Totnes. It’s quite small, so I’m pleased it’s hidden down a lane, away from Fore Street (the main high street) as I always manage to get a seat. The café caters for those who are vegans, vegetarians or gluten intolerant which is appealing. The food is divine and so is their mint hot chocolate, which I can’t get enough of. If you’re a cheese lover like myself, then you should call at Country Cheeses. The selection of cheeses offered are all enticing,  particularly their Camembert.

I then walked speedily along the footpath, in a bid not to get soaked by the sudden rain dispersing from the sky. I took refuge in the Crystal shop. I love the meanings attached to each crystal and always wear a pendant necklace. A crystal cage is inexpensive and allows you to choose which crystal to put in each day. I also wear an Aventurine bracelet daily as it is supposed to clear and activate the heart chakra for general well-being.  I’m aware the discussion of crystals to many will be amusing, however I believe each to their own!

After browsing many crystals, I then went to my favourite shop in Totnes called ‘Out of the Blue’. It is filled with a variety of goods from wall art to a simple wallet. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll appreciate a shop full of bits and bobs that will fill your heart with glee. I would definitely recommend this shop if you’re visiting.

Hours later, walking along the cobbled lanes, I decided to visit another cafe. Café Royale is a welcoming, family run café, that serves the most delicious toffee cake. Worth a visit, just for the cake! I spent several hours there studying and then headed home.

Without a shadow of a doubt, if I ever go missing I’ll be in Totnes!

 

 

 

 

I visited Virginia Waters, Surrey, in January. Renowned for its picturesque views, it didn’t fail to disappoint. Simply walking around the lake, along with family, whilst breathing in fresh air, was remarkably calming. There is a copious amount of space to think quietly and be still in the moment. To be at one with nature is a pleasant feeling to experience as you walk around the lake.  The waterfall called “The Cascade” is a beautiful feature to witness.

I am very fond of photography, so I took the opportunity to take many photos of woodland as well as participating in an impromptu photo shoot!  Despite using an iPhone to take the photos,  I’m pleased with the quality.

From sipping a cup of coffee on the timber decking outside the pavilion to jogging around the waters, there is a wide array of activities to do.   If you plan on visiting, then I would set aside an entire day to take in the magnificent scenery.

Katie x