prairie girl musings

Category: City Guide

The Edinburgh Edit

Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever visited. With its cobblestoned streets and perfectly intact medieval architecture, it’s worth a visit based on looks alone. On my recent trip, I spent a lot of time looking up, mesmerized by the buildings and the views from every angle. A trip to Edinburgh offers the best of both worlds, it’s also brimming with culture, art and superb restaurants, It’s a place that will stay with you for awhile.

Where to stay
While there are plenty of hotels in the city centre, I opted for an Airbnb in Stockbridge. Reasonably priced and beautifully decorated, the bathroom and shower were both teeny tiny. The bedroom was cosy, but the lounge was my favourite part. Stockbridge itself has a village feel to it, it’s much quieter and more local than central Edinburgh. It’s also home to many delightful food and drink options. That said, it’s only a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) to the city centre.

If you’re looking for something closer to the action, G&V Royal Mile Hotel (formerly the Hotel Missoni) or The Witchery are both located on the Royal Mile (the main tourist drag of Edinburgh).

Where to eat
Edinburgh is known for its world-class culinary scene and regardless of whether you’re after a quintessential Scottish feed or something international, it will not disappoint. My absolute favourites are below:

Smith & Gertrude is a lovely Stockbridge institution for wine, cheese and small bites. I was dining alone and the service was impeccable. They even sent me on my way with a loooong list of must-visits.

For the love of cake, make sure you go to Lovecrumbs. They have two locations, one in the city centre and the second in Stockbridge. I ordered the vanilla and rosewater cake with a long black and it was divine!

Everyone told me to try Cowan & Sons, but unfortunately they had a kitchen malfunction when I visited. The menu looks delicious and the space is gorgeous, so make sure you check it out and let me know how it is if you’re in Edinburgh!

I popped into Hyde & Son on my first morning in Edinburgh when the city was still asleep. It gets top points for being open at 7am, for its flakey croissants and delicious cortados.

For one of the best coffees in Edinburgh, you can’t miss Artisan Roast. Again, they have more than one location, but all are perfect places to settle in with a cuppa.

If you love ice cream and cute interiors, be sure to check out Mary’s Milk Bar. It overlooks the Edinburgh Castle, which is an added bonus!

Timberyard has incredible cocktails (like fermented rhubarb and mead), artistic dishes and an industrial interior that appealed to me on all levels.

If you’re after a Michelin-starred meal, you’ll want to visit The Kitchin, one of Edinburgh’s most talked about restaurants by Tom Kitchin. Cuisine here is served on earthy tableware and the menu focuses on seasonal Scottish produce.

Favourite sights
There’s so much to see and do in Edinburgh, and I’d highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes. I averaged about 15km per day and the cobblestone streets are best tackled wearing sneakers.

Edinburgh Castle – While some say it’s slightly overrated and expensive, you can’t miss out on the castle if it’s your first time in Edinburgh. The city views are unbeatable and I was mesmerized by the collection of family jewels on display.

Calton Hill – with its grassy slopes and panoramic views, Calton Hill is one of the most peaceful spots in Edinburgh (despite the steep hike up…) Next to the Nelson Monument, you’ll see the acropolis-style structure designed., which was modelled on the Parthenon in Athens and dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Napoleonic Wars.

Fruitmarket Gallery – right across from Waverley Station (where you may be catching your next train) is a contemporary art space, which occupies a former fruit and vegetable market. It began its life as a gallery in 1974 and has a ‘floating’ roof, allowing natural light to fill the first floor.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery – Refurbished in 2011, the SNPG consists of three floors of portrait and photography collections and a painting of famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns. Be sure to visit the top floor, which features a suite of exhibition rooms.

Favourite shops
Life Story – for a curated selection of furniture, homewares, stationery, prints and jewelry, Life Story is a must! Sourced from around the world, there’s a distinct emphasis on Scandinavian designers.

Epitome – for understated pieces from a variety of Scottish and international designers, Epitome is the place to go. I was eyeing up a pair of Common Projects on my recent visit.

Dick’s – This local shop is full of practical and stylish items, including Shetland jumpers and gorgeous homewares. Had I a bit more space in my luggage, I would’ve surely returned home with one of their copper baskets.

Edinburgh surprised me and surpassed my expectations in every way possible. While I expected to experience a stunning city steeped in history, I was blown away by its sharp, witty personality and appreciation for the arts. Have you been before? I’d love to hear about your favourite spots.

September 20, 2018
Hawke’s Bay Highlights

Tell anyone you’re heading to Hawke’s Bay and the response will be overwhelmingly positive. New Zealanders from all around the country know this region is a worthy destination. Boasting some of the country’s best wineries, food and architecture, you’ll be amazed at how much there is to do. I met up with Ro Palmer, the functions wedding planner at Black Barn Vineyards for an afternoon of adventures. As she drove us across the rolling hills and vineyards, listing off all the cafés, eateries and wineries I had to visit, I knew I was in for a treat. Read on to see why this is a must-visit New Zealand spot.

Accommodation
If you’re planning a visit to Hawke’s Bay, you’ll likely want to base yourself in one of three municipalities, Napier, Hastings or Havelock North. If you’re after a central location that overlooks the water, my recommendation is to book yourself in to The Crown Hotel. Housed in a gorgeous Art Deco building, The Crown has all the amenities you’ll need whether you’re on holiday or travelling for business. Its close proximity to several excellent restaurants, F.G. Smiths and Mamasons to name just two, is reason enough to book yourself a room. If you’re after something a bit more remote, check out Black Barn’s retreats. They have sixteen accommodation options available, and I fell in love with The Poplars (pictured below).

Napier
If you’re flying into Hawke’s Bay Airport, you’ll find yourself only ten minutes from the heart of Napier, where’s there’s plenty to see (and eat). There are pastel Art Deco buildings everywhere you look. Earthquakes struck Napier in 1931 and the entire city was rebuilt in the Art Deco style. Don’t miss the Sound Shell, The Masonic Hotel, Art Deco Centre.

After walking around, marvelling at all the architecture, you’ve probably built up quite the appetite. I recommend the following cafés, eateries and specialty shops:

F.G. Smith – interesting breakfast options to satisfy all palettes, Smiths is part of the Eat Drink Share Hawke’s Bay group, so know you’ll love everything about this spot.

Mister D – for the most famous donuts in Hawke’s Bay (maybe New Zealand), head to Mister D. I tried their smashed avocado with dukka and poached eggs for brunch and it was divine. Conveniently down the laneway is Monica Loves, one of Napier’s best wine bars. Just look out for neon, “Who Shot The Barman” sign and you’re in the right place.

MamaSons – This place specialises in dumplings and pizza, and it’s attached to The Globe theatre – a boutique art house cinema.

Milk and Honey – I didn’t have a chance to eat here, but it’s The Crown’s in-house restaurant and was constantly teeming with customers.

Hunger Monger – For the best, freshest seafood in the city, look no further than this Marine Parade restaurant.

Chocolatier Mirams – the prettiest chocolates you’ve ever laid your eyes on in the sweetest little shop just off the main drag.

Mission Estate Winery – as the birthplace of New Zealand wine, be sure to pay Mission Estate a visit. Established in 1851 by pioneering French missionaries, the old seminary has been immaculately maintained.

Blackbird Goods – with goods from near and far, the aesthetic shop stocks products that have been ethically sourced and sustainably made. Its evident the husband and wife team have incredible taste in interiors and household items; they tell me all the products are ones they’ve got in their home (or wish they had).

Takaro Trails – Hawke’s Bay is incredibly cycle-friendly, so be sure to take yourself on a self-guided tour. We hired bikes from Takaro, embarked on a Sunday afternoon cruise to Bay View for lunch by the sea and then marvelled at the spring lambs.

Hastings:
Hastings is a 20-minute drive from Napier and has recently seen an influx of delicious cafés, eateries and art galleries. I suggest spending an afternoon here before heading to Havelock North.

Brave Brewing Co. – The craft beer scene has recently boomed in the Bay and Brave is one of its most noteworthy breweries. The sparse, minimalist space is easy on the eyes and you’ll want to sample a few craft beers and maybe buy a few before leaving.

Funbuns – An Asian fusion eatery that’s known for its Hong Kong style buns and incredible cocktails. Funbuns recently took home a few accolades at Hawke’s Bay Hospitality Awards and it’s easy to see why. Their loaded fries are the best I’ve ever tried mostly due to the heavy amounts of kimchi. The okonomiyaki is filling and flavourful.

Little Blackbird Eatery – A healthy café and eatery, Little Blackbird is a wonderful place to spend a few hours. I cosied up near the fireplace to tackle my emails with a heaping bowl of pumpkin vegetable soup.

Parlour Projects – In addition to the main art galleries and museums, make sure you pay Parlour Projects a visit. The stark white space features a revolving collection of artists.

Opera Kitchen – Next door to Parlour Projects is Opera Kitchen (another Eat Drink Share establishment) with delightful ice coffee and an enticing cabinet.

La Petite Chocolat – Organic, fair trade chocolate and drinking chocolate, which can also be found at the Hastings Farmer’s Market on Sundays.

Little Red Book Shop – The sweetest little second-hand bookshop with floor to ceiling bookshelves, you could easily spend an entire afternoon leafing through their extensive collection.

Hastings Farmer Market – Held every Sunday at the Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds, you won’t want to miss the local market. It’s the place to hang out on a Sunday morning, grab a bacon and egg sandwich, a Bay espresso coffee and peruse the stalls.

Havelock North:
Havelock North is the smallest of the municipalities, worth visiting for its proximity to several world-class wineries:

Black Barn Vineyards and Bistro – My favourite winery in the Hawke’s Bay area, Black Barn is known for its Bordeaux style reds and award-winning chardonnay. Wines from the boutique vineyard are available only through their cellar door and their website, so it’s definitely worth visiting in person. Pop into the bistro for a fantastic lunch or grab something to go at their shop. In the summertime, they play host to Saturday morning Grower’s Markets and often have concerts at the amphitheatre.

Craggy Range – World-famous for a reason, stop by the cellar door or have lunch at their award-winning restaurant. Unfortunately, it’s closed until spring, so we just missed out.

Elephant Hill – Another fantastic, innovative winery with one of the local, seasonal lunches on offer.

Pipi’s Café and Truck –There’s a reason why Pipi’s is an institution, the pizzas are incredible and the wine is flowing. All the pink tables and furnishings were right up my alley.

Te Mata Peak – Panoramic views of rolling hills and the city below, you can walk, bike or drive up to the highest peak in the area.

So, there you have it. My list of Hawke’s Bay highlights. Should you be planning a visit soon, please feel free to reach out via Instagram or by emailing me at vanessa@lovett.nz.

August 20, 2018
An Instagrammer’s Guide to Toronto

Toronto, oh how I love you. Canada’s largest city holds a very special place in my heart for its diversity and inclusivity, its creative community and love for food and drink. It’s one of the greatest food cities I’ve ever been to, a true testament to its multiculturalism. While all these spots are 100% photogenic, they’re also incredible for a myriad of other reasons and I don’t mean to underplay their excellence in other areas. Whether you’re on the hunt for that next photo opp or you’re wanting a deliciously crafted cocktail, be sure to check out my new favourite spots below:

La Palma
There’s NO way I could write a guide to the most Instagram-worthy spots in TO without including La Palma. On our recent trip back, we stayed at an Airbnb just around the corner from this beautiful Italian restaurant and it was a godsend. Not only is the space #interiorgoals, the food is incredible and the service is equally fantastic. It was the perfect place to catch up with my bestie, Jake.

Cops
You may have noticed my pink theme as of late, well that was only solidified upon visiting Cops in downtown Toronto. With the aim to do one thing really well, Cops serves up mini doughnuts (in two variations) and filter coffee. Oh, and I can’t forget the strawberry milk. The coffee shop itself is a faded millennial pink that’ll have you reaching for your phone.

Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen
Where do I even begin with Chubby’s? This brand new King West establishment is one of the most exciting restaurants in town. The menu is inventive and inspired by homestyle cooking paired with the vibrancy of Jamaica’s people. We tried pretty much everything on the menu and I’m writing home about the patties and the jerk chicken. Their vegetarian options are equally as good! I can’t report on the cocktails (it was only 11:30 when I visited for an early lunch). Head upstairs and be sure to grab some outfit photos near the bar.

Café Cancan
Opinions on this spot are somewhat mixed and honestly, the food is quite expensive for what it is. That said, it’s tasty and filling, and you’ll absolutely fall in love with Cancan’s fit-out and space. We nabbed the booth by the window, which is perfect for flat lays. Oh, and there’s also a pink door which is ideal for outfit photos after brunch!

Rosen’s Cinnamon Buns
For the best and most indulgent cinnamon buns, head to College Street West. Rosen’s has been the talk of the town for awhile and for good reason. Fresh out of the oven, their buns are delicious and you’ll want to grab a photo of their marble countertops and gorgeous floors.

Her Majesty’s Pleasure
Okay, this glorious spot has been around for AWHILE, but that doesn’t make it any less special. It’s a nail salon and spa meets café meets cocktail bar. Basically, you’ll want to hang out here all day long (believe me, I have!) and take several gorgeous photos while you’re at it. With a newly-installed neon sign, call for champagne, HMP is upping its already impeccable Insta-game.

Kekou Gelato
Kekou was my go-to when I lived on Queen West, downtown Toronto. The Asian gelato shop was dangerously close to my apartment, I lived at their Baldwin location during the summer months. They’ve since opened a second location (even closer to my old apartment…) Their Queen and Spadina location boasts the same quality gelato flavours, Vietnamese Coffee, Black Sesame and Hong Kong Milk Tea are my personal faves in a bigger space. I’m partial to their palm tree wall, transporting me to the tropics in the middle of the city.

NEO Coffee Bar
Is there anything more ‘grammable than matcha? I don’t think so and I’m such a fan of NEO’s matcha, I’ll walk across the city for it in 35 degree heat. They’ve added a matcha affogato to their menu that’s definitely worth trying. The space itself is minimalist and kitted out with plenty of tables and plugs, so you can come here to work as well.

SoSo Food Club
SoSo on Dundas West and Ossington offers modernised Chinese cuisine in a vibrant setting. Its pink and turquoise colour scheme reminds me of a Miami beach club on steroids. The attention to detail is incredible and the menu is flavourful and authentic. I’m not an expert in Chinese cuisine by any stretch of the imagination, so if you’d like to read an excellent review, I urge you to read my friend, Isabelle’s post here.

Which spots am I missing? I’d love to hear about your favourite Instagram-worthy spots in Toronto?

July 29, 2018
4 Must-Visit Los Angeles Neighbourhoods

I want to love LA, I really do. The sun, the beaches, the perfectly ripe avocados, Angelenos truly have it good. But there’s also the obvious smog and traffic congestion. A city of contrasts, we made the most of it and decided to cover as much ground as humanly possible in six days, which included a two-day jaunt to Palm Springs (read about it here).

LA is a city of neighbourhoods, and these neighbourhoods feel like entire cities in and of themselves. In other words, we didn’t entirely ‘get’ or understand LA and found it somewhat overwhelming. The weather in LA is incredible, it’s permanently sunny and the beaches are gorgeous. The food scene is one of the best in the world, locals and visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to cafés and eateries. Perhaps my favourite thing about LA (well, after the shopping) was how self-assured and confident everyone seemed. I never felt judged for taking photos of my food or outfits, which is always refreshing!

If you’re planning a trip to this metropolis, I suggest sticking to one or two neighbourhoods rather than trying to do it all. I’ve listed my favourite spots from my four favourite neighbourhoods below. Just make sure you’ve got a car.

West Hollywood and Melrose:
This is where we stayed and it’s a relatively good base. We booked a room at The Standard and loved how quirky it was. It’s an artsy, boutique hotel with an excellent pool and bar area. We even saw a few celebrities.

The Standard (West Hollywood)
Beverly Hills Hotel for lunch and photos (it’s the cutest space ever!)
Reformation is the best and one of the most sustainable clothing stores around. All their garments are made from secondhand fabrics.
Glossier for all your beauty needs. It’s worth checking out the store even if you’re not buying anything. Their LA location also has a cool Antelope Canyon room.
Laurel Hardware for cleverly crafted cocktails and a magical little patio.

Mansur Gavriel for that bucket bag. Oh and they also serve lunch in their gorgeous outdoor café.
Outdoor Voices for all your exercise needs, I ended up purchasing a sports bra and these leggings (which I’m currently living in).
Verve Coffee Roasters for the best flat white in town.
Alfred Tea Room, again it’s very Instagrammable and the changa chip drink is so good.
Gracias Madre has the best patio and vegan Mexican food in town. You’ll likely not even realise it’s vegan. Oh and definitely try their snow cone margarita, it’s next-level delicious.
by CHLOE is another popular vegan, “fast food” option.
LACMA The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the Western United States, and is something you don’t want to miss if you’re in the area.

Eggslut is a delicious spot for breakfast if you’re hungover or just craving something indulgent.

Santa Monica:
Olive and June is the prettiest nail salon I’ve ever seen, super instagrammable.
Mighty Pilates. I didn’t have the chance to try this place out, but I’ve heard great things!
Montana Avenue is the place for all your favourite shops including Clare V., Splendid, Benefit and Jill Roberts. Olive and June (mentioned above) is also on this street.
Viceroy Santa Monica. A lot of thought and detail was put into the art-deco style décor of this Ocean Avenue hotel. The pool area features black and white poolside cabanas and a mirrored bar in the lobby.
Santa Monica Pier. You can’t go to Santa Monica without visiting the beach and the pier. Hop aboard the ferris wheel and grab a snack as you explore the boardwalk.

Venice Beach:
We didn’t make it to Venice this time round, but both Nick and I have been there on past visits.

Great White Venice for the most instagram-worthy café and gorgeous working space. Apparently their coffee is good, even by Kiwi standards.
Salt & Straw for the best, freshly churned ice cream around
Moon Juice is my favourite spot for cold pressed juices, dusts, and elixirs of all kinds.

You’ll definitely want to hit up the Venice Boardwalk and check out Muscle Beach while you’re at it.

Silver Lake:
Sqirl was our favourite breakfast spot of the whole trip. It’s busy, but the service was super speedy and the dishes are super flavourful.
Dayglow Coffee has the best iced coffees around and it’s pink heaven!
Dinosaur Coffee is a really cute spot that we sadly we didn’t make it to this time.
The Silver Lake Reservoirs Have you ever seen the 1974 film, Chinatown? It’s all Nick could talk about when we visited the Silver Lake Reservoirs. Built at the turn of the 20^th century, these two man-made lakes are the heart (and namesake) of the Silver Lake community. The two side-by-side reservoirs are surrounded by an extensive walking/jogging path, a dog park, a playground and a recreation centre.
Griffith Observatory for spectacular views of the Hollywood Hills, ideal at sunset.
OK has unique gifts, jewellery, and an incredible selection of coffee table books
Yolk is the place to go for more playful gifts.
Secret Stairs Walk There’s a cluster of LA’s historic “hidden staircases” in hilly Silver Lake. A remnant of a time before cars, when public outdoor staircases were the only practical way for residents of certain hillside neighbourhoods to get down the hill to school, the supermarket, or to public transit including trolleys and streetcars.

We attempted to go to Malibu for lunch at Malibu Farm (I’ve had my eye on their frosé forever…) We drove an hour, couldn’t find a place to park (it was BUSY) and drove back. Not our brightest idea…

While we didn’t fall head over heels for LA as we have for other cities, I did fall for the incredible food scene. And I probably could’ve spent an entire day shopping. My advice is to plan a longer visit or to visit a local friend, someone who can show you their go-to spots.

Where do you hang out in LA?

July 19, 2018
Keeping Cool In Palm Springs

Before becoming a popular Hollywood escape in the 1950s, Palm Springs was first a wellness destination in the 1900s. Only two hours from Los Angeles (traffic permitting), it’s the perfect getaway for both Angelenos and visitors alike.

Palm Springs was actually the first place my parents ever took me as a baby. I was about four months old when we ventured to this mid-century modern dream of a destination. I like to think that a small part of me remembers that first holiday and I’ve had a desire to return ever since…

When booking our accommodation, I did extensive research to find the most colourful, most PGM hotel I could get my hands on. We ultimately decided on The Saguaro, which was transformed from a Holiday Inn into the most magical Rainbow paradise. Rainbow in more ways than one, Palm Springs is a gay mecca and our hotel was filled with incredibly attractive same-sex couples. It also seems to be a hotspot for bachelor and bachelorette parties and one of my favourite designers actually had her wedding nearby. The other hotels we considered were:

Parker Palm Springs
If you’ve got some cash money to spend, then stay at The Parker. It’s a gorgeous hotel with three restaurants and the most luxurious rooms. We cycled to the Parker for brunch at Norma’s to celebrate our engagement (we decided California would be our mini moon) and to check out the beautifully-styled lobby. Decorated in true mid-century modern fashion, be sure to grab a few snaps for the gram while you’re there!

The Ace
Known for their kitschy, electric rooms and excellent food offerings, (not to mention the Stumptown Coffee available at all their locations), is one of America’s original boutique hotels. We couldn’t resist stopping by for breakfast at King’s Highway. The 70s style diner is worth a trip even if you’re not staying here. They have California’s own Linus bicycles available for hire, which is my preferred brand.

We chose The Saguaro for its amazing pool (of which I took 23528 photos…) and rainbow selection of rooms. They also have free bikes for hire, but it was 47 degrees Celsius when we were visiting, so we didn’t make it much further than a few kilometres…

Sightseeing

Palm Springs Art Museum
Much like the architecture, the art in Palm Springs is worth writing home about. Founded in 1938, it showcases art from the region in addition to natural science and performing arts. We focused on the regional arts, in particular contemporary art, sculpture, studio art glass, and architecture archives. There’s currently an incredible glass exhibit on called Narratives in Glass that’s on until early November. I highly recommend checking it out if you’re in town.

That Pink Door
While we were tempted to lounge by the pool (the temperatures hovered around 45 degree celsius at all times…) we knew we’d regret not taking it the city’s architecture. I had a list of places I wanted to visit, including that pink door. Unfortunately, the owners are no longer allowing photos after invasive Instagrammers and bloggers went right up to the door (some even grabbing the doorknob!) We still decided to swing by and capture a quick snap from the street. This house is so dreamy, so make sure to add it to your itinerary. The address is 1100 Sierra Way and it’s two minutes from The Saguaro.

Take the aerial tramway
Another fun activity that actually helped cool us down was taking the tram. The Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram car. It travels over four kilometres along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting you to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. The journey up takes about ten-minutes and the tram car rotates slowly, which offers spectacular views of the valley below. Once you reach the top, there’s plenty of observation decks and heaps of hiking trails.

Visitor’s Center
Another amazing example of mid-century style of architecture, the Palm Springs Visitor Center (sorry, it’s ‘er’ in American English) is well worth a visit. My photos don’t do it justice, but the angles are remarkable!

Pappy & Harriet’s
Slightly outside Palm Springs in Pioneertown stands Pappy & Harriet’s. I wasn’t sure whether to categorise this under food and drink or sightseeing (it’s both). The live music venues features classic American fare and rustic decor. The walls are lined with license plates (we even found one from Saskatchewan). Drinks are served in mason jars and there’s live music every night. It’s well worth the drive, but be sure to make a reservation if you’re going for dinner.

We had planned to go bowling at Palm Springs Lanes, but ran out of time. If you have extra time, I’d suggest playing a round or two!

Eat & Drink

For its small size, Palm Springs has so many incredible food options. I had to take Nick to In ‘N Out Burger (he had never been before) and he raved about it. He actually thinks it’s better than Shake Shack (debatable, but it’s way more cost-effective). Be sure to check out the following spots as well:

King’s Highway
The roadside diner at the Ace Hotel and Swim Club, King’s Highway serves up a Cal-Mexican menu with locally sourced ingredients and Stumptown cold brew (seriously, it’s one of the best coffee roasters in America). Formerly a Denny’s restaurant, King’s Highway “celebrates the ineffable, bohemian spirit of the wide open West”. They’ve also got Bingo on Monday nights, and we’re all about that!

Norma’s
You’ll want to make sure you check out the Parker’s lobby and while you’re at it, head to Norma’s for an indulgent, outdoor brunch. The offerings here are indulgent, so come hungry. Nick and I share the crispy french toast (coated in Rice Crispies) and the Huevos Rancheros, both were incredibly delicious. As expected, we couldn’t fault the service here. Our waiter was hilarious and told us stories about local life in Palm Springs.

El Jefe
If you love margaritas and Mexican food, there’s nowhere better than El Jefe at The Saguaro. The lavender margarita was my personal fave and Nick, who strictly a beer drinker, even drank (and loved) a few.

The Tropicale
Somewhat hard to pin down, The Tropicale caters to everyone with its pink, neon-lit exterior and retro, tropical interior. The festive eatery serves an eclectic menu alongside large and delicious drinks. There’s a patio, which is worth nabbing a seat on if the temperatures are slightly lower. Nick and I both loved the service and people watching here.

We didn’t do any shopping in Palm Springs (I was saving my pennies for Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles, stay tuned for that city guide next!) but there are a few neat spots if you’re looking to spend some of your hard earned cash.

Desert Hills Premium Outlets
If you’re looking for a bargain like no other, you can’t miss the Desert Hills Premium Outlets. While they’re technically thirty minutes outside Palm Springs, this massive shopping complex is the size of a small town with outposts for Calvin Klein, All Saints, Kate Spade, Jimmy Choo, Barneys New York, Frette, Bottega Veneta, Prada, YSL, James Perse and so many more.

Modernway
If you’re a fan of mid-century furniture, stop by Modernway for an amazing selection of pre-loved furniture from decades ago. Expect an assortment of lucite seating, wall art and plush rugs. The prices are steep, but it’s fun to look!

A La Mod
One of the biggest and well curated home decor showrooms in Palm Springs, you can find pieces from the 80s and 90s in addition to mid-century modern gems. A la mod is a wonderful place for vintage lighting as well.

You could easily spend a week in Palm Springs, uncovering all the hidden gems and admiring all the mid-century modern architecture, but a weekend is ideal for a mini getaway. We loved spending two nights in this dreamy desert destination.

Have you ever been to Palm Springs? If so, I’d love to hear about your favourite spots!

July 16, 2018
10 Christchurch Cafés Worth Checking Out

I’m all about a quality café. Having worked remotely for much of my career, I’m constantly on the hunt for cafés that fit the following criteria:

The coffee needs to be good.
There needs to be a decent food offering.
They need to be okay with me staying a while (and likely taking a photo or two…)
If there’s wifi, even better.

Not so hard, is it? Fortunately, Christchurch has had an influx of new cafés as of late. There are cafés to suit all aesthetics, whether you like something cosy and intimate or spacious and light-filled, I’ve got your back. Read on and I’ll cover my top 10 cafés worth visiting.

Miro
176 Oxford Terrace, The Midland Building
I won’t go into too much detail about Miro because you can read my first impressions here. Let’s just say it fits all the above criteria and it’s in a prime location in the beautiful Midland Building.

Photo by Nancy Zhou

Photo by Sophie Isabella

The Origin
95 Westminster Street, St. Albans
If you’re after a space that’s a bit more open and light-filled, head to The Origin in St. Albans. This mostly plant-based, vegetarian café has free wifi (score) and excellent coffee. The space itself is stunning, mostly white with lots of plants and the comfiest chairs.

West End Stories
93 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central
Another beautiful café in the central city, West End Stories has a delicious menu and free wifi to boot. In particular, I’m in love with their pumpkin fritters and poached eggs.

Uncommon
262 Tuam St, Christchurch Central
Uncommon Café on Tuam Street has one of the best menus in the city. Their coffee is C4 and their dishes are always changing. I’m a fan of their hotcakes, which are big enough to feed two, but I usually devour on my own. I also like how close it is to our flat — super convenient for Sunday morning brekkie.

The Anchorage
4 Walker Street, Christchurch Central
Another spot for free wifi and quality brews, The Anchorage is a roastery, café and communal workspace. The coffee menu is the key focus here and it’s ever-changing. They also have simple menu made up of local suppliers, Cakes by Anna, Bellbird and Grizzly Bagel.

Grain
19 Southwark Street, Christchurch Central
Again, I’ve written about Grain in the past, but it’s one of my favourite cafés for many reasons including its expertly poured Allpress coffee, its minimalist interior and healthy menu. The grain bowls are my lunchtime go-to and I highly recommend trying their warm vegan bowl.

Mediterranean Food Company
322 Tuam Street, Christchurch Central
Part grocery store, part café, part restaurant, Mediterranean Food Co. may not exactly quality as a café, but they do serve coffee and the best Mediterranean food in the city. The pizzas are divine, Aperol Spritzes (which originate in Italy) are impeccable and you can have a cappuccino or gelato to top it all off. Oh, and they have instagrammable marble tables, perfect to fit that Instagram aesthetic you’re after.

Ten27
1027 Ferry Road, Ferrymead
Located a bit further afield is Ten27, another spacious café with an extensive breakfast and lunch menu. I haven’t tried very much off their menu, but loved the honeycomb pancakes pictured below. They were absolutely divine. Oh, and there’s free wifi.

Coffee Embassy
107 Fitzgerald Ave, Christchurch Central
Previously Lumes, Coffee Embassy is my local. It’s only about three blocks from my flat and I love sitting outside while sipping my morning coffee. The café and roastery has a surprisingly delicious menu as well, not relying solely on excellent brews. I recommend the avocado toast.

Park Ranger
114 Riccarton Rd, Riccarton, Christchurch
Last but certainly not least, Park Ranger is my favourite café in Riccarton. It’s constantly teeming on the weekends, filled with locals and those leaving the Christchurch Farmers Market in need of an extra hit of coffee. The açai bowl is a refreshing option or try the Goodness Bowl, filled with all those healthy greens and balanced with halloumi and a poached egg for good measure.

Are you a frequent café-goer, too? If so, let me know your favourite spots in the comments below.

May 29, 2018
How to spend a day in Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a popular surf town a short drive (about 1.5 hours southwest) of the Gold Coast. Known for its excellent surf, beautiful walks, and laid back locals, it’s also full of world class cafés and bohemian boutiques. On a recent trip to Queensland to visit my Canadian cousins, I managed to sneak in a day trip to Byron Bay. Armed with a long list of shops and eateries, we certainly made the most of the 24 hours. While you can accomplish a lot in a day in Byron, I would highly recommend a weekend trip so you can properly relax and fully immerse yourself in the beachy vibes offered up by this picture-perfect destination.

Eat/

Start the day at Folk or their little sister café, Woods Bangalow. It’s all in the name – the caravan café serves up an all-organic, vegetarian menu in beautiful outdoor setting. Try the breakfast burrito, muesli or poached eggs and avocado and wash it down with a rainbow assortment of lattes (turmeric, beetroot, spiced pepper, the list goes on…) or opt for something stronger (their espresso is also excellent). You’ll feel like this bustling spot is the place to be, surrounded by fashionable bohemians and hipsters who look like they’ve just left The Falls festival.

If you’re after margaritas and quality Mexican fare, look no further than Miss Margarita We were slightly unimpressed by the service here, but the food was yummy. Try the mango margaritas and fruity Pimm’s punch. Their fish tacos (snapper and squid) are fresh and filling, but the true standout is the mushroom and spinach quesadilla.

Other highly recommended eateries and cafes:

Top Shop: great coffee and scrumptious breakfast. If you’re here for a few days, add this one to your hit list.
Treehouse on Belongil: tapas and shared plates with an Italian theme, this is another Byron hot spot
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co: the place for a sunny afternoon tipple and people watching in Byron, Balcony Bar overlooks one of the busiest parts of the town.
Combi: excellent coffee in the cutest café, I could have easily spent all afternoon here…
Leaf and Grain: another café for another time, the breakfast burgers look out of this world and their white tiles are oh so instagrammable!
Finn Poke: Look for the pink neon sign and white interior, this poke spot has received its fair share of praise.

Shop/
Spell & The Gyspy Collective: If you need the wardrobe to match your new Byron way of life, the 10-minute walk (from the Main Street) is a must. The light-filled shop caters to the gypset crowd, stocking embroidered dresses, beautiful bikinis and lovely homewares and curiosities. There’s even an outdoor area that plays host to weekly (in the summer) and fortnightly (year-round) workshops and events. Sustainability and conscious consumption is a focus here, and the shop girls are on hand to educate and answer any questions you might have.

Miss Brown Vintage Byron Bay: Speaking of sustainable fashion – Miss Brown’s is Byron’s go-to vintage store, carrying a large assortment of denim shirts, shorts and skirts as well as beautiful dresses and leather goods. I ran out of time whilst rummaging through the racks upon racks of impeccable second-hand threads, but immediately found a handful of gems.

Tigani Lux: Everything you’ll need for a week on the beach, Tigani Lux is full of quality staples. Think gorgeous basket bags, linens staples and beautiful jewellery that you’ll want to wear every day.

Ahoy Trader: Find homewares, exclusive Australian brands and plenty of beach necessities at this cute shop off the main drag. I wanted to transport everything home with me, but unfortunately didn’t have checked luggage.

Girl Overboard: Of course, you’ll want to check out swimwear shops while you’re in Byron Bay – … has all the latest Seafolly and Maje as well as stunning cover-ups and dresses that will take you from lunch to the beach and back

These are only a small selection of many fantastic shops in Byron, wander off the main drag, to the side streets and you’ll find plenty of unique boutiques.

STAY/

We were staying in the Gold Coast, but I have my eye on the following hotels and accommodations for next time…

28 Degrees: luxury guesthouses in the heart of Byron Bay – I dream of staying here with Nick.

Atlantic Byron: four original Byron Bay cottages that have been lovingly restored. Take a look at their website and swoon…

Do/
Whatever you do, make sure you make the trek to the famous Byron lighthouse. Even better if you visit during sunrise or sunset, when the sky takes on a pink and purple hue.

If you’ve ever wanted to take up surfing but haven’t yet had the chance… Byron’s a great spot to catch a wave. We went with Let’s Go Surfing because they offered 1.5 hour courses (rather than the typical 4 hours) and the instruction was friendly and hands on. I would definitely recommend going in a small group (no more than six) especially if you’re new to surfing. Although the waves were quite huge (and can intimidate beginners)…the instructors here will make sure you’re safe.

I had really built Byron up in my mind, envisioning a small, unrushed destination filled with well-dressed hippies, gorgeous surfers and organic cafés. What I wasn’t expecting was to fall for the town’s friendliness and quiet charm. I anticipated a place that was a little too cool, but experienced quite the contrary. Every local I interacted with was friendly and welcoming, happy to have visitors invade their little slice of heaven.

January 29, 2018
5 Reasons To Book A Flight To Adelaide

A trip to Adelaide seems to inspire perplexity and questions like, “oh, what made you want to visit?” and “what’s there to do there?”. This South Australian destination isn’t at the top of most travellers’ bucket lists, but it should be.

Often overlooked in favour of other Australian destinations, Adelaide is, without a doubt, a must-visit city. I could go into great detail about all the things that make Adelaide wonderful, but I’ll focus on the top five; highlighting some of the activities we enjoyed during our extended long weekend.

Food & Wine

The food and wine capital of Australia, Adelaide’s food scene is one of the best in the world. Much like the city itself, it’s relaxed, diverse and appeals to foodies of all strokes. Whether you’re after excellent brunch, a long lunch or rooftop drinks, Adelaide does it all without missing a beat.

Unlike Sydney and Melbourne, where dining out can take hours (after all, you’ll need to wait in line for those hotcakes), Adelaide’s culinary scene is chill AF. Trendy restaurants lack pretension and always have space. Some of our favourite meals were at the following establishments:

Crack Kitchen: Ok, the name is great. Now, that we have that out of the way, I’ll focus on the food, coffee and interiors. Tiled counters, two espresso machines and ample natural light, you’ll look this café the moment you step inside. The food ranges from breakfast burgers to healthy breakfast bowls. You’re sure to love it.

Public: Across the street from Crack Kitchen, you’ll find Public. This spacious CBD café and function space has quality breakfast options. Sit at one of the marble-top booths to set yourself up for the perfect #breakfastflatlay.

Fleur & Brew: A florist/coffee shop, what more could one want? This cosy corner café is only a stone’s throw from the Adelaide Central Market.

Adelaide Central Market: Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market gave me unrealistic standards when it comes to city markets, but Adelaide’s Central Market managed to impress me. Here, you’ll find rows and rows of fresh produce, delicious breakfast stalls, fresh pastries, nuts, cured meats, the list goes on… Everything you need to stock up for the flight home (just make sure you consume it all before biosecurity!)

Taste the Barossa: We were fortunate to spend a day exploring Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley, which I’ll write more about in my next blog post – stay tuned! Needless to say, it’s one of the main reasons to visit Adelaide!

Other favourite include: Pink Moon Saloon (it’s a must-visit cocktail bar), Midnight Spaghetti (huge portions and the best Aperol Spritz I’ve tasted!), Clever Little Tailor (gorgeous old bar with excellent negronis and craft beer), 2KW (the best rooftop bar and view in Adelaide!) and Boneshaker, which had the best burgers I’ve ever tasted (better than Shake Shack, even!)

Cycling

While there were a few bike lanes in the city, we were even more impressed by the number of dockless share bikes around the city. Obike and Ofo have recently launched; if you download the app, using these systems is a handy way of getting from point A to B. We loved biking from coffee to lunch to drinks, cycling along the river and exploring noteworthy sights.

Public Transport

Adelaide’s public transport is hugely under appreciated, but both Nick and I were amazed by the number of buses available across the city. Nick stopped several times to take photos of thirteen or fourteen buses lined up along the streets. The city itself is laid out in a fairly rational grid network. Conveniently, the airport is close to the city – about 15 minutes by bus with frequent connections.

Glenelg Beach

While not known for its beaches, a trip to Adelaide isn’t complete without a tram ride to Glenelg. This seaside town is absolutely gorgeous; lined with palm trees and miles and miles of clear, blue water. Glenelg’s community is lovely as well – with mom and pop shops, cafés and cornershops lining every street. Stop by Superette for a coffee and other sundries before walking along the pier or dipping your toes in the sea.

Nature and Wildlife

No trip to Adelaide is complete without venturing outside the city to experience the beautiful Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley. On our way to the Barossa Valley, we saw families of kangaroos and emus. South Australia is one of the driest regions in the world. Two years ago, Adelaide Hills experienced two weeks of bushfires, which destroyed 80 homes and killed a lot of wildlife. Fortunately, a monsoon arrived from Darwin before more damage could take place. A lot of the wildlife is now returnin and houses are being rebuilt.

Another day trip option is to Kangaroo Island; one the most beautiful parts of South Australia. Over a third of the island is protected in nature reserves, home to native wildlife like sea lions, koalas and diverse bird species. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to Kangaroo Island this time around, but it’s definitely on my list for my next trip to Adelaide.

So, there you have it, five reasons to get yourself over to Adelaide ASAP! Let me know if you’ve ever visited and what your first impressions were.

October 28, 2017
The Making of a Great City

I’ve always been fascinated by the question, ‘what makes a great city?’. I’ve spent the last decade living in, travelling to, and immersing myself in exceptional cities. I’ve also been living with a planner and fellow urbanophile (Nick) for the last six or so years and he’s taught me a thing or two.

It can be difficult to articulate what specifically makes some cities stand out more than others. I find myself pondering this question as Christchurch rebuilds. So, I sat down with Nick to identify how my favourite cities fit within the framework of what urban thinkers deem great cities.

Photo by Justin Main

Vanessa: I benchmark every city against Toronto, a city I once called home, and a place I loved for its people, culture, ideas, and fashion. Toronto is the most diverse city in the world and this is reflected in its architecture, neighbourhoods, cuisine, acceptance of ideas and ways of life.

Nick: One of the most influential urban thinkers of the twentieth century, Jane Jacobs called the city home for the latter half of her life. She was a champion for urban diversity in every sense of the word. She observed that mixed-use neighbourhoods where people could live, work, recreate and educate within close proximity were quantifiably more vibrant than cities that separated land uses. When those conditions are enabled, you end up with residents from all different backgrounds, generations, and walks of life. Diversity isn’t found in every city, but it’s a key ingredient that makes great cities stand out from the rest.

Vanessa: Probably not quite as diverse as Toronto, Copenhagen is another incredible city. I travelled to Copenhagen on my own, but never experienced loneliness or isolation. This Scandinavian city is filled with public spaces, lively walking environments and plenty of places to go, stay, sit and people watch.

Nick: Jan Gehl is a Copenhagen native and the foremost expert on the importance of human scale and places for people in cities. Typically, where cities get this wrong is in the wasted opportunity cost of allocating space. In the early 1970s, just a few years after WWII, cars had begun to dominate almost every available piece of public space in the city. This was taking place in cities all over the world, but famously, Copenhagen was one of the first places to set out and reverse it. New Regent Street in Christchurch is an excellent example of this; in the 1970s it was just like any other street in the city with cars parked down either side. It became a pedestrian mall in the 1990s and is now one of the best people-watching spots in the city.

V: On a completely different scale, I recently visited Tokyo and was captivated by the hustle and bustle throughout the day, no matter where I went. Whether 3AM or 3PM, the city was alive and thriving. I experienced a similar feeling in London, where each distinctive neighbourhood felt vibrant and unique.

N: One of the things that codifies a city from a town is its ability to commerce and trade at a whole new level. When trading ideas, services and experiences amongst a global marketplace, traditional hours of operation no longer apply. 24-hour cities are abundantly more productive, vibrant and safer. It’s not just about bars and clubs either, dozens of cities are appointing unofficial “night mayors” to formalize and capitalize on the creativity, productivity, and culture that emerge after dark. It’s an important part of attracting and retaining people to a place. Christchurch is really struggling in this regard post-quake, but events like FESTA are doing a fantastic job of showing a different side of the city at night.

V: Cities in in North America appear to have so much character, Boston, New York and Montreal seem to be constantly evolving and changing while holding on to their stories and interesting narratives. I was especially intrigued by the old Meatpacking District and how it’s been re-imagined with the High Line.

N: Cities aren’t static and the ones that stand out manage to tell a story about their past, but know where they are heading in the future. Most western cities outside of Europe were founded and grew during the industrial era. It’s heartbreaking to see cities that haven’t been able to keep pace and have become shadows of their former selves. Some of the most interesting places within great cities have adapted from what they once were, and are given a new life as something different in a modern city. Examples include The High Line, Brew Works Pittsburgh, and City Works Depot. It’s why people are drawn to converted loft studio spaces or apartments, knowing they were formerly warehouses. In Christchurch, we have C1 Espresso (which was previously a post office) and of course, The Arts Centre, (The University of Canterbury) now more open and inviting places for the public than they once were.

Photo by Ben Dumond

V: Sometimes what captivates me about cities is more than just their downtowns. I couldn’t get over the beauty of Cape Town, wedged between mountains and the sea, its remarkable skyline is immediately recognizable.

N: Vistas and skylines are what make up a city’s urban form, but they’re only recognizable once you’re able to move to the right vantage point. Natural geographic assets are generally responsible for why cities are found often alongside rivers, oceans or mountainsides. Today, many of these features have become iconic landmarks. It’s the combination of urban and natural environments that often give cities their aesthetic sense of liveability. Everyone identifies Christ the Redeemer with Rio and Rangitoto with Auckland. Christchurch has been fortunate to have the Port Hills, Southern Alps, and the Pacific Ocean so close, by but it’s by design rather than accident. There is a renewed focus on ensuring the natural assets are underscored amongst the urban environment.

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All cities possess these principles to a greater or lesser degree. It’s the great cities that truly embody these characteristics and stay with us long after we’ve left.

Photo by Johan Mouchet

Photo by Bart Anestin

Photo by Clinton Naik

Featured image by Tim Gouw

June 11, 2017
New Opening: Little High Eatery

In a city that’s slowly rebuilding, Little High Eatery came out of the blue. Tucked behind the Mackenzie & Willis building on Tuam Street, across from C1 Espresso, lives a brand new food court. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill suburban shopping mall food court, it’s an exercise in excellent urban planning. Little High makes excellent use of a relatively small space; it’s home to eight quality eateries including Bacon Brothers, Base Pizza, A Mouse Called Bean, Eightgrains (deliciously, made-to-order dumplings), Sushi Soldiers, El Fogon, Thai Street Kitchen, and my personal fave, Caribe (Latin American food and margaritas the size of my head!)

The new eatery is quickly becoming a local institution (I’ve been there three times in five days!) and proves to be the perfect destination for indecisive eaters and foodies alike. The atmosphere at Little High is lively throughout the day, with coffee and breakfast burgers being served from 7am. If you’re searching for a lunch spot or after work drinks, this is it.

May 27, 2017