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  • All Blacks

    All Blacks

     

    What is New Zealand most commonly known for? Its rugged beauty and The Lord of the Rings, of course. But after that? Probably rugby. The All Blacks have been dominating the international rugby scene for longer than I can remember.

    Living in Auckland, the colour black also dominated the wardrobes of many students and young professionals (as it does in many major cities).  Ironically, I wore a lot of prints and colours when I attended uni in Auckland. It wasn’t until I moved to Toronto and started working at Club Monaco, that I realized the power of an all black ensemble. When you’re working retail six or seven days a week, rotating the same pieces is a reality, and working with a neutral palette makes that so much easier.

    While I’ve re-introduced colour into my life, I still have a penchant for an all-black outfit. Elegant and flattering on any figure, it’s impossible to look bad in black. It’s also a bit mindless, which I appreciate on days when I don’t feel like spending too much time deliberating what to wear.

    I wanted to highlight one of my favourite all-black outfits with all pieces by New Zealand and Australian designers. Also, this outfit has some serious Bukovyna vibes going on. I’m sure all my Ukrainian friends will agree.

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    Yes, I rode my bike in this. Yes, I had shorts on underneath.

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    Dress: Viktoria & Woods (currently 50% off at The Collective)
    Shoes: Mi Piaci Rodeo Flats (also on sale!)
    Earrings: Cat Lovett

  • Where To Go From Here?

    Where To Go From Here?

    It’s crazy to think January is more than halfway over. I’ve been feeling a bit uninspired and homesick lately, like I’m stuck in limbo. I haven’t felt compelled to talk about it for fear of sounding ungrateful or as though I regret my decision to move overseas. Also, Nick has really found his groove in Christchurch; he is killing it here and I’m proud of him.

    I’m starting to realize that all the things I took for granted in Toronto are actually what make the city interesting. I miss the constant buzz of that place, the jam packed subway and streetcars, the dirty streets, the constant Drake references, and even the frenetic urge to walk faster than anyone else on the footpath. The over saturation in almost every industry kept me competitive and ambitious. I loved balancing two jobs and the abundance of networking opportunities that often made me exhausted.

    But maybe it’s not sustainable to rely on external forces to stay passionate.

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    Rather than sulk, I’ve been trying to figure out ways to get back into the swing of things. I’ve come up with a list for combatting those January blues. Hopefully it will prove helpful for those of you who may be feeling a bit under the weather.

    Join the gym or a pilates/yoga studio. I know it’s cliché, but you can’t beat those endorphins. When I’m down, exercise is the only thing that improves my mood.

    Network – this can be more of a challenge if you’re not in an urban centre, but get creative. Seek out new ways of interacting, say with your barista or someone at your gym. Most people are pretty receptive if you give them the chance to be.

    Join a running club, or (insert favourite activity here) club.

    Take in local events, be it a comedy show, buskers festival or a street art crawl. Use these events as ways to connect with likeminded individuals.

    Appreciate what your city has to offer. My best friend visited last week and her enthusiasm for everything from the rebuild projects to the botanic gardens was refreshing.

    Dive into a new project. More on this soon!

    When I was in Toronto, I used social media to connect with other creatives. When my friend, Isabelle reached out to me via Instagram, I had no idea she’d become one of my closest friends. I also attended social media workshops and events that helped me get freelance jobs.

    I’ll soon be starting a series on this blog, which will highlight Christchurch businesses, spaces and events.

  • Saigon Sights

    Saigon Sights

    Ho Chi Minh City is quickly modernizing and now is the time to visit as buildings that are here today will be gone tomorrow!

    Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi (see city guide here) couldn’t be more different. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, retains much of its old world charm whereas HCMC (formerly Saigon) is fast-paced and racier.

    Just when I thought crossing the street was difficult in Hanoi, HCMC was a whole other level of chaos! Intersections were crammed full of motorbikes, cars, buses with the odd pedestrian thrown into the mix. As many a tour guide will warn you, “traffic lights mean nothing to the Vietnamese. Green means go, yellow means go faster and red still means go.” Paired  with the hottest temperatures I’ve experienced in a looooong time (maybe ever?!) I found HCMC to be a wee bit stressful. That said, it is a thrilling experience and I’m glad I visited when I did as I’m not sure I could handle HCMC later in life.

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    We stayed at the ever-miniscule (only 22 rooms), Ben Thanh Boutique Hotel. The oriental-style hotel is somewhat hard to find (it’s in an alleyway off a side street), but a a lovely place to lay your head after a busy day of sightseeing. Its convenient location means you can peruse the night markets and the myriad of cafés in the area.

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    Eat/

    Our favourite place for pho was Pho 2000, which is located near Ben Thanh Market. The roomy restaurant has enticing options for both vegetarians and meat eaters. I also loved the vermicelli noodles (pictured below!)

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    Discovering new brunch spots is a full-time hobby of mine, and L’Usine appeals to both the design and food-focused. Grab a seat on the balcony, which overlooks the hustle and bustle of the city below and order eggs florentine or the big breakfast. After your meal, check out the shop below which carries hard-to-find brands.

    My sister and I enjoyed The KAfe Saigon for its nutritious breakfast options. Natalie enjoyed her smoothie here and I was a fan of the fruit bowl with yogurt.

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    Vietnam is a great place to find affordable ceramics and china. I suggest visiting L’Authentique Home for gorgeous vases, bowls and tea sets. Home to three workshops, Authentique is committed to celebrating the fine crafts traditions of Vietnam. Known for refined design, carefully selected materials and beautiful craftsmanship, you might find yourself checking a second suitcase.

    Another spot for interior design lovers is The Vintage Emporium, which is also a café. I marvelled at the carefully chosen decor and the stunning tile floors!

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    We had quite a bit of time in HCMC, so Natalie and I decided to book a few day trips through our hotel. First, we headed to the Mekong Delta for some boating and rowing adventures. We visited local villages, indulged in delicious fruit and coconut, and even visited a temple and Happy Buddha, which just so happens to be my favourite Buddha!

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  • Soho Weekend Guide

    Soho Weekend Guide

    Soho New York

    What hasn’t been said about New York City? I’ve even written about it on this blog before. What I find most impressive about this city is that there’s something new to discover with every visit; whether sticking to one neighbourhood or venturing to each of the five boroughs.

    Soho has received a lot of blogger attention due to its gorgeous storefronts, cobblestone streets, and abundant eateries. It will undoubtedly satisfy the most discerning travellers and denizens.

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    There are many accommodation options in Soho and nearby. My sister and I decided to book boutique hotel, The James when we were last in New York City. The art hotel only has a few rooms and is perfectly situated for those who plan on spending significant time in Soho. The views from each room, but especially the rooftop gym, were incredible!

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    Eat/

    With eateries and cafés on every corner, this is where Soho shines. There’s an endless array of world-class brunch spots and cafés that will keep your tummy full throughout your stay.

    The Butcher’s Daughter: This juice bar and organic café uses seasonal ingredients to create delicious concoctions that will keep you going no matter what the day holds. The service is friendly and speedy, which is a necessity in Soho.

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    Egg Shop: My personal favourite, Egg Shop does wonderfully creative things with eggs. The interior is simple, bare bones, really, and the food is eggscellent!

    Café Select: A casual (gorgeous) European rail-station bistro, Café Select is a must-visit from morning to the wee hours.

    Jack’s Wife Freda: Brunch is very, very real at this understated all-day bistro. My sister and I decided to indulge in a late lunch because the lineup during breakfast was frightening.

    Black Seed Bagels: New York-style bagels with the freshest ingredients, need I say more?

    Lombardi’s Pizza: Choosing a pizza place in NYC is difficult, okay? Lombardi’s will surely delight

    Freemans Restaurant: Search #freemansalley on Instagram, and you’ll see why this is a prime spot for picture-taking. It’s also a delicious dinner option with an extensive food and drink menu.

    Morgenstern’s: You’ll need something sweet to wash down all that brunch and pizza, right? Morgenstern’s delivers excellent quality and a wide array of flavours!

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    Happy Bones: New York has an array of New Zealand and Australian-owned cafés and Happy Bones is a crowd favourite for its minimalist interior. Order a flat white and a doughnut from Dough.

    Gasoline Alley Coffee: This gem serves artisanal brews in the most lively environment.

    Two Hands: This is a go-to spot for açai bowls, avocado toast (with a fried egg on top), smoothies, and quality coffee. You’ll love the fairy lights that adorn this café.

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    Shop/

    Shopping in Soho, for me at least, is more about window shopping and gathering inspiration than actually spending. The stores are beautifully decorated and the cobblestone streets ooze elegance.

    McNally Jackson Bookstore: An independent bookstore with a café that hosts events and offers self-publishing.

    The Reformation: Did you know fashion is the third most polluting industry globally? This repurposed vintage boutique is all about recycling fabrics and tracking how much of an impact their garments have on the environment? Cool, right?

    Acne Studios: If you’re a fan of Stockholm brand, Acne, you’ll want to stop by their Soho studio. Mesmerizing!

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    What’s your favourite NYC neighbourhood?

  • How To Spend a Day in Surry Hills

    How To Spend a Day in Surry Hills

    You’ll never be wanting for things to do in Sydney. There are plenty of incredible beaches, jaw dropping sights and excellent cuisine. If you’re looking to experience a more local side of Sydney, I suggest spending a day in Surry Hills. One of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods, Surry Hills is only a short walk from Central Station. On my most recent visit, it was my first stop when given a day to roam Sydney.

    Coffee is free flowing in Sydney, but in my experience, it can be hit or miss. Surry Hills has an abundance of quality cafés and I suggest you get your morning fix at Artificer Coffee. The bare bones shop isn’t the place to grab a bite to eat, but the coffee speaks for itself.

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    After an early morning espresso, you’ll likely be craving something a little more substantial. Hit up either Le Monde café, Chez Sun or Reuben Hills, all three serve enticing breakfast options ranging from açai bowls and smoothies to eggs benedict.

    Le Monde is a local favourite, and it’s easy to see why with its assortment of delicious breakfast options (how can you possibly choose only one?) and top notch coffee. The zucchini and haloumi fritters served with a poached egg caught my eye immediately!

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    Photo via The Urban List

    Chez Sun is a pretty terrace café that will have you reaching for your phone (gotta Instagram that lovely interior, am I right?)

    Reuben Hills is a coffee roastery, so you can expect excellent coffee to complement your meal.

    After breakfast, be sure to check out a few of the many stylish shops that line Crown Street. My favourite was The Standard Store, which features covetable Australian, European and US brands. The gorgeous window displays are also worth mentioning!

    Workshopped classifies Australian design and garners  local and international attention by supporting young emerging designers. Find innovative furniture, lighting, homewares and jewellery.

    Photo via The Design Files
    Photo via The Design Files

    Although Sydney is the sunshine capital of the world (or at least that’s what I’ve heard…) there are occasionally rainy days. On those days, Golden Age Cinema and Bar has your back. This 1940s cinema is housed in the former headquarters of Paramount Pictures and has retained its art deco features.

    Stay tuned for my updated Sydney guide.

  • A Weekend Away in Akaroa

    A Weekend Away in Akaroa

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    When Nick surprised me with a weekend away in Akaroa, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew very little about the only New Zealand town colonized by the French. Located on Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is approximately an hour and a half from Christchurch depending on traffic and how accustomed you are to New Zealand roads.

    My limited knowledge of Akaroa worked in my favour as we spent a sunny Friday afternoon navigating the winding South Island roads. Immediately upon arrival, I spotted a tangled up French flag and knew I was in for a treat.

    I was enrolled in French Immersion from kindergarten to grade twelve, which means the majority of my classes were conducted in French. Needless to say, I was delighted to hear French spoken by both the locals and tourists. While I knew Akaroa maintained some of its French character, I didn’t expect much more than French road names and freshly baked croissants.

    Upon arrival, we headed straight to our bed and breakfast, Villa Vangioni (also a surprise!) where we were warmly greeted by innkeeper, Kirsty. My experience with B&Bs is basically non-existent and Villa Vangioni, an immaculate, gorgeously decorated boutique property with sweeping views of the sea, provided the perfect introduction. Every detail was seamlessly executed and Kirsty even armed us with dinner recommendations.

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    Care for a bath? The traditional freestanding bath is absolutely dreamy and I loved perusing the wide range of potions and candles on display.

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    There’s even a dining room where you’ll be graciously served by the lovely hostess, Kirsty. I wore stripes in hopes that I would look Parisian.

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    A night spent at Villa Vangioni delights from start to finish. I couldn’t help but smile when I saw these stockings hung at the foot of our bed. We had the entire upstairs to ourselves, and at the top of the staircase was a bench adorned with figure skates and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Every detail of the property is so carefully considered that I’m already dreaming about a return visit!

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    I couldn’t help but take a photo of these tiled floors in the bathroom!

    Other highlights of Akaroa included dinner at The Little Bistro, this small restaurant has a lengthy wine list and resplendent views of the harbour. The cuisine is French, of course and service is attentive. I also recommend the Akaroa museum to gain some understanding of the town’s history.

    A lovely spot for coffee is The Brasserie. The garden restaurant is an cozy spot to settle in with a flat white for some quality people watching.

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    From virtually any vantage point, within this small seaside town, there are plentiful views of the quiet harbour. Fortunately, we ventured to Akaroa just before prime tourist season, and it seemed as though we had the entire town to ourselves.

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    For more information or to book your stay at Villa Vangioni, visit the website.

  • 2016

    2016

    I debated how to title this entry for a solid five minutes, then re-considered this post altogether. I’ve felt this way for much of 2015 and I hope 2016 brings about some clarity.

    It’s been a confusing year with high highs and low lows. In many ways, I’ve aged a lot this year. I turned 27 two weeks ago and it was the first time I really felt like I was getting older. I gave up on ideas I’ve held for most of my life.

    I haven’t felt quite like myself since leaving Toronto and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss it everyday. However, big changes take time and it still feels like the right decision.

    2015 was full of new experiences both personally and professionally. I worked remotely, experienced new cities, and spent quality time with my loved ones. I blogged more regularly than ever before, found my niche in travel writing, and formed friendships and partnerships through both this blog and Instagram.

    While I rarely make resolutions anymore, I think the new year provides a blank slate. For me, it’s always been an important time for contemplation.

    Thank you for following along my small space on the internet, your support means more than you know. Now, let’s make 2016 a wonderful year!

  • Hoi An Travel Diary

    Hoi An Travel Diary

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    Hoi An is unanimously Vietnam’s most loved destination. There are many reasons behind this universal adoration, but I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s primarily because it offers respite from the chaos of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Natalie and I enjoyed our time in Hoi An so much that we decided to stay two extra nights.

    We selected our hotel based on its proximity to both the beach and the ancient town. Thankfully, most hotels in Hoi An offer free bicycles for their guests and it is the main form of transportation for tourists.

    The ancient town is the most laidback of all the places we visited in Vietnam. Known for its well-preserved architecture (you’ll see a stunning combination of French colonial, Chinese and Japanese), its an endless array of tailoring shops, delicious local cuisine, stunning beaches, and soothing spas; the lantern city delights even the most scrutinizing travellers.

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    Madam Khan aka the Banh Mi Queen: This was hands down our favourite banh mi experience in Vietnam. For $1 CAD, we chowed down on banh mi filled with fresh vegetarian omelettes. We even returned the following day because the bread was so fresh!

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    Reaching Out Teahouse: A social enterprise/garden oasis that employs disabled individuals. Natalie and I loved the serene setting of the teahouse and the assortment of teas and treats on offer. We communicated with our server through wooden blocks with words written on them (see photo below).

    Be sure to visit the retail shop and workshop as well, (located just around the corner) which showcases exquisite crafts made by local artisans.

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    If you’re a coffee lover (addict) like me, both Hoi An Roastery and The Espresso Station are sure to satisfy.

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    We were in dire need of some fruit and veggies, so thankfully Natalie discovered Cocobox and we ended up going there twice for their smoothies and cold-pressed juices.

    Nu Eatery: This hidden restaurant is known for its appetizers and Vietnamese fusion dishes. I had some of the freshest spring rolls I’ve ever tasted. The bao was also a winner!

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    You’ll want to watch the lanterns turn on as the sun sets in Hoi An, and there’s no better place to do so than Fusion Café. They quickly accommodated our group of nine with seats overlooking the Japanese bridge. And as we sat down, a DJ started spinning popular tracks only adding to the ambience. The mojitos here are top notch as well.

    Admittedly we ate a bit of Western cuisine in Hoi An because these gals like options. Popping into Hola Taco was one of our better decisions. Serving up some of the most flavourful fish tacos I’ve had anywhere, Hola Taco is a bright and welcome addition to Hoi An.

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    Ride your bicycle to An Bang or Cua Dai beach and lounge under an umbrella with a fresh coconut in hand. Go for a swim, but be wary of the enormous waves!

    If you’re hoping to have some clothes tailor made, Hoi An offers hundreds of options! We didn’t research too thoroughly, but both Natalie and I each had one piece of clothing and one pair of shoes made. I’m happy I had shoes made because my feet and arches are an awkward shape.

    Vietnam is also known for its well-priced, quality spas. During our two and a half week trip, I had a magnificent massage, a fantastic facial, and a well, less than adequate pedicure (but that’s another story!) Do your research on TripAdvisor and you’ll certainly find a spa that suits your needs and budget!

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    Thanks for reading!

  • Hanoi Travel Diary

    Hanoi Travel Diary

    Vietnam wasn’t at the top of my travel bucket list, but sometimes unexpected destinations are the most surprising.

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    Natalie and Clinton were halfway into their four-month expedition having already visited Thailand, Bali, Cambodia and Laos. I watched their adventures closely both through social media and by talking to them on FaceTime regularly.

    When the opportunity arose to join Natalie in Vietnam while Clinton headed to Goa, I could barely contain myself! Travelling with my sister is always a treat, but especially now that we no longer live in the same city (or even on the same continent!) She’s wonderful to travel with because she’s level-headed, fun to be around, budget-conscious, and directionally-savvy. Not to mention, we have similar priorities when travelling.

    We began our travels up north in Hanoi. Here are some of the highlights should you ever find yourself in the capital of Vietnam:

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    The Old Quarter is where you should spend your first morning, although you could easily spend an entire day here if time permits! The crowded markets are quite overwhelming, with merchants calling out to you from every direction. As much as Natalie and I enjoyed other parts of Vietnam, this is where we truly felt like we had stepped back in time. I experienced sensory overload watching locals pile their pedal bicycles and motorbikes high with produce and flowers. Hanoi has retained much of its colonial character, and it’s really the best place to sit on a street corner and enjoy banh mí and phõ.

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    The lake in Hanoi offers respite from the chaotic Old Quarter. It’s a lovely spot to sit back and take in local culture. From the assortment of photoshoots (you’ll see ladies dressed up as brides taking hundreds of professional photos) to the community gardeners, there’s always something going on by the lake!

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    The Hỏa Lò Prison was first used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners. Later, by North Vietnam, for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. It’s a frightening prison (I may have even screamed once or twice…) and contains A LOT of propaganda, but it’s educational and worth checking out if you have time.

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    Our favourite coffee shop in Hanoi was Cong Caphe. The quirky military-inspired café serves delicious Vietnamese coffee with coconut frozen yogurt. Grab a seat on the rooftop patio and enjoy views of the hustle and bustle below.

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    We stayed in the Opera Quarter, which a short walk to the Old Quarter and the lake. Our rooftop offered supreme views of the French colonial architecture Hanoi is known for.

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    The Hanoi Social Club is a wonderful spot for vegetarian food, drinks, and epic views of the city. Be warned that the drinks here are STRONG.Processed with VSCOcam with a6 preset

    Be sure to book a two-night/three-day tour of Halong Bay. Even if you’re pressed for time, I’d suggest giving up a day in Hanoi to spend a second day in Halong Bay. Tours can be booked through your hotel, although some tend to hike up the price because they get commission. We compared prices, and then booked through a local travel stall in central Hanoi at $150 USD/person.

    Our first day was spent sailing around Halong Bay and exploring the nearby caves with our tour group. We then did some kayaking at sunset (the views were breathtaking) before heading back to our main junk boat. That night, we had dinner and slept on the junk boat. Our second day involved venturing to Cát Bà Island, which is more remote with better views.We spent one night at the Nam Cat Resort in Cát Bà. It was worth waking up at 6AM for this sunrise.

    CIMG0541Our tour guide, Tú told us stories about his family and daily life in Vietnam. His enthusiasm made him one of the most memorable tour guides I’ve ever encountered, and he made us laugh more times than we could count.

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    There’s nothing quite like a Ha Long Bay sunset.

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    My favourite part of the tour was visiting Cát Bà Island. I loved cycling around the island and watching the locals go about their days.

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    Thanks for reading! xx

  • Singapore Travel Diary

    Singapore Travel Diary

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    With a stopover in Singapore on my way to Vietnam to meet my sister, I decided to extend my stay in the city. I had never been and had heard a lot about the city-state that continually reinvents itself. Two nights seemed like a good amount of time to become acquainted with Singapore. It’s one of the most expensive places to travel in the world, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. Litter is non-existent (I honestly saw someone sweeping up a single leaf at the Botanic Gardens) and chewing gum is banned. Singaporeans seem more reserved than other places I’ve visited in Asia, but friendly and polite.

    I stayed at New Majestic Hotel, a boutique hotel in Chinatown. It’s a small hotel with each room designed by a different local artist.

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    If you’re ever in Singapore, I highly recommend staying in Chinatown. It has a distinctly local feel to it, the architecture is beautiful, and many of the shops, restaurants, and cafés are world class. Some people say Chinatown is touristy, but I found it much less touristy than other parts of the city. My hotel was only a two-minute walk from the Outram Park MRT station, which was incredibly convenient.

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    My favourite spots in the area are:

    For Singaporean hawker food, you can’t go wrong at any of the corner stalls in Chinatown. Order a Tiger and some Hainanese chicken rice, and watch the world go by. Here are some suggestions for those who might prefer a more vegetarian-friendly option:

    Breakfast: The Daily Roundup, excellent coffee, great atmosphere, and a menu consisting of sweet and savoury crepes (unlike the ones you’ll have in Europe).

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    Lunch: Try the dumplings and broccoli with oyster sauce at the inconspicuous Jing Huá Xiāo Chi.

    Coffee: The Populus Coffee and Food Co., Common Man Coffee Roasters and Toby’s Estate are all fantastic options for strong coffee and yummy food.

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    If you’re after a Western breakfast, Luxe (a popular Sydney restaurant that opened in Singapore) has plenty of eggs, avocados, mushrooms, tomatoes, etc. Not to mention excellent coffee.

    For a beautiful view of the Singapore skyline, head to Potato Head Folk. I’m not sure if this place is associated with Potato Head in Bali, but it’s three stories and has the most amazing atmosphere. The drinks are quite pricey (but where aren’t they in Singapore?) so order a stiff one and know that you’re paying for a great view.

    For more amazing hawker stalls, venture to Newton Food Centre (Newton Station is only one stop away from Outram).

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    Singapore Botanic Gardens: Singapore has been described as “city in a garden,” and I can really see why after visiting the botanic gardens. I could have easily spent an entire day here. Fortunately, I ventured to the gardens first thing in the morning before the rain! It rains a lot in Singapore, which is nice when it’s 35 degrees and hella humid! I loved how everyone was running, practicing tai chi and yoga despite the heat.

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    Orchard ION Mall: As soon as it started pouring rain, I had no choice but to venture to one of the million malls in Singapore. The Orchard ION has a lot of high-end designer shops (Louis Vuitton, Céline, and Chanel) but also a few more affordable boutique shops by local designers. My favourite store was In Good Company for two reasons: I loved that the high quality fabrics used and the wearable styles but also at the back of the shop was the most gorgeous café, Plain Vanilla. After wandering the gardens and the rows upon rows of stores, it was enjoyable to sit down with an espresso and a freshly baked earl grey cupcake.

    Another interesting thing about Singapore (and the malls in particular) is the abundance of Christmas décor. My friend, Emma mentioned Singapore’s obsession with Christmas, but I didn’t realize the scale of said obsession until I visited. The decorations are so extravagant and over-the-top (in the best possible way). And I say this as a North American where the commercialization of Christmas knows no bounds.

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    Sentosa Island: Singapore a bit of a user-friendly utopia; it doesn’t always feel real because everything is so perfect. Never is this truer than at Sentosa Island. Home to Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa is a tourist hub. I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I caught the MRT to the Harbourfront, but loved that I could walk 15 minutes across the bridge right to the island. The cable car is another option. Sentosa Island feels a bit like Hollywood, but more intense. There are museums, casinos, and rides, and fountains, many, many fountains.

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    If you have a layover in Singapore, don’t despair! Changi International Airport is rated #1 in the world and it’s easy to see why with a free movie theatre (yes, free!) butterfly gardens, and a rooftop pool. There’s also hawker food stalls that sell street food comparable to that sold in Newton! Amazing, right?

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    Sometimes I’d forget I was in a mega-city whilst roaming the streets of Chinatown. This neighbourhood is home to my favourite architecture, I loved the detailed pastel facades of each storefront!

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    In addition to my usual city guide, I thought I’d try something new and vlog my time in Singapore. I’ll be sharing my vlog via social media in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for that.