prairie girl musings

Tag: travel

Christchurch Staycation Guide

stay·ca·tion

/stāˈkāSHn/
noun informal
a holiday spent in one’s home country rather than abroad, or one spent at home and involving day trips to local attractions.

The process of discovering the city in which you reside can take months, even years. I’ve now lived in Christchurch for seven months. I am beginning to feel as though I have a sense of the city and how it’s laid out. There’s much to love about the transitional city as well as several local spots to explore. If you’re a local in need of a refresh, why not stay right here in the garden city?

Stay/

For me, no staycation is complete without a night away in new surroundings. Hotel Montreal offers contemporary luxury suites that overlook Hagley Park. Only a five-minute walk from the bustling Victoria Street precinct, I was initially drawn to this hotel because of its name. How could I resist a little piece of Canada in Christchurch? The elegant suites are impressive in size and fully equipped with kitchenettes, lounges and an excellent compendium of reading material. I was completely content thumbing through Living In Style, Paris while feeling as though I too had escaped to the city of lights. The cushion collection, all soft blues and yellows, is commendable as well. Pour yourself a drink and watch the world go by on your astro turf balcony or head downstairs for a cocktail followed by a game of croquet. The last time I played croquet was on my grandparents’ yard as a teenager and it’s still as much fun as I remember.

Nick and I were treated to a delectable breakfast at the elegant and understated, Polo Bar. Here, you’ll be forgiven if you mistake the waitstaff for Ralph Lauren employees in their preppy attire. Attentive and immaculately dressed with silk HM monogrammed neck scarves, I felt as though I stepped into a polo club. As Argentina’s national sport, the restaurant boasts an extensive menu of hot and cold tapas and breakfast staples like apple, cinnamon pancakes and smoked salmon hash.

Arts & Culture/

After reluctantly tearing yourself away from Hotel Montreal, make a point of visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery. Recently reopened after five years of renovations (including base isolators), Christchurch’s public (free!) art gallery is an architectural masterpiece of flowing glass. I’ve been known to snap photos of and rave about Martin Creed’s ‘Everything’s going to be all right’ light work and Michael Parekowhai’s giant bull on the piano inside. The rest of the gallery is constantly evolving with both local and international installations.

Take note of the gallery’s newest addition. Ronnie van Hout’s self-portrait can be spotted from miles away.

Next door is the Centre of Contemporary Art. The much-smaller modernist-style building which began as the Canterbury Society of Arts Gallery in the 1880s. The two-storey building plays host to seasonal collections from local, national and international contemporary artists! After visiting CoCA, stop by the gorgeous Great Hall at the Arts Centre.

Before catching a show at Isaac Theatre Royal, be sure to have a boogie on the Dance-O-Mat. One of the Gap Filler’s best known projects, this is a dance floor you won’t soon forget. Simply pop a $2 coin into the old Laundromat washing machine, plug in your iPod or MP3 player and dance along to your favourite tune. The Dance-O-Mat is symbolic of Christchurch’s ever-changing CBD and considered a must-visit by locals and tourists.

Relax/

One of the best ways to unwind is to treat yourself to a facial at Total Body Concept on Salisbury Street. Known for their specialised skin care, the day spa offers treatments to reverse ageing, prevent further damage and maintain a young, healthy, glowing complexion. Having struggled with changing climates, the team at TBC has helped rejuvenate and repair my skin.

Shop/

Christchurch is full of farmers markets, Lyttelton, Riccarton, Opawa. I usually visit Riccarton Farmers Market on Saturdays where I love picking up an açai bowl for breakfast, some fresh bread, a bit of produce, and occasionally sweets from J’aime les macarons. Riccarton Bush is a lively yet serene place to spend a morning, with live music by the river. You’ll undoubtedly bump into someone you know.

The Re:START mall will soon be replaced by a more permanent shopping precinct, so be sure to visit in the meantime. Here you’ll find New Zealand designers at local boutiques, Infinite Definite and Head Over Heels. Christchurch’s oldest department store, Ballantynes, offers an elevated shopping experience. After shopping, pop by the Bus Interchange to appreciate the architecture; a small win for transportation in Christchurch. Afterwards, peruse the extensive collection of films at Alice Cinemathèque or catch an afternoon flick at the arthouse cinema.

Food & Drink/

In need of a snack? I can’t go past Gentle Giant for their waffles and matcha lattes and Hello Sunday for their unique and ever-changing menu. If you’re after something a little stronger, visit speakeasy-style, O.G.B. Bar at Heritage Hotel and feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Order a cocktail and settle in for some live music in the intimate surroundings.

Rather than escaping the city, why not spend the weekend exploring Christchurch? With a bit of preparation, you’ll find it to be the perfect playground for adventure.

July 4, 2016
6 Delightful Days in Dunedin

As you may already know from my Instagram posts, I spent last week in Dunedin for iD Fashion Week. The event has been running for the past seventeen years and it’s easy to see why it’s so successful. As New Zealand’s oldest city, Dunedin has such a strong creative community. With New Zealand’s oldest university and local designers like Margi Robertson and Liz Findlay, the city exudes style, cleverness and imagination.

On previous visits to Dunedin with Nick, whose mum is from a town just outside Dunedin, I marvelled at the city’s architecture and steep streets. This week called for a healthy dose of networking and collaboration, two of my favourite activities.

Less touristy than other South Island destinations, Dunedin is often overlooked for the likes of Queenstown, Christchurch and Nelson. But those who venture here will see its striking resemblance to Scotland. After all, Dunedin means Edinburgh in Gaelic.

Stay/

I was fortunate to spend the week at the Claremont House in Roslyn. This stately private guesthouse was built in 1908. The Edwardian-style house is hard to miss, overlooking the gorgeous city below. Claremont House is all I’ve ever wanted in a B&B and then some. The friendly team welcomed me with open arms, working around my busy schedule and leaving delicious sweets in my room. They also served the most scrumptious organic breakfasts in the elegant dining room every morning. The house itself is perfectly preserved, retaining its original character while feeling comfortably modern. Each room features the comfiest of king and queen-sized beds and an adjacent living room with ample space for lounging and tea-sipping. The Claremont House encompasses luxury and history and I highly recommend booking a stay here on your next trip to Dunedin!

Eat, Drink, Be Merry/

Vanguard Coffee Co.: My absolute favourite café in Dunedin, this place ticks all the boxes. There is ample seating, lots of light, beautiful fauna and florals, and a breakfast menu that runs all day. I sampled the shakshuka (amazing!) and too many flat whites to count. Shout out to the lovely baristas who let us stay late to work (aka take way too many photos!)

Kiki Beware: Visit for the gorgeous interior, but stay for the yummy coffee and inventive menu. The fries here will make you betray your diet. Served with salts and dips of all varieties, you’ll want to go with a friend and share!

Morning Magpie: This place is as eclectic as it is cozy. While I usually prefer minimalist cafes, I couldn’t pass this quirky, haphazard coffee shop. It will remind you of your grandmother’s living room.

Chamber of Coffee: If you’re starting to sense a theme…well, that’s because coffee was in ample supply all weeklong. The Chamber of Coffee also has delightful salads if you’re in need of some greens!

Taste Nature: After a few too many indulgent meals, I was relieved to discover Taste Nature. An organic grocery store that sells everything from kale to kombucha, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you arrive before 2pm on a weekday, they also have a menu of salads, soups, sandwiches and my personal favourite, green smoothies.

Di Lusso: Easy to miss, this small bar is neatly tucked into Stuart Street, and often overlooked for the more raucous students bars and pubs on this street. For iD, various designers crafted their own cocktails that were served throughout the week.

Do/

The Octagon: I’m convinced that every good city has a town square, a place to congregate. In Dunedin, it’s the Octagon. With several cafés, restaurants, bars, galleries and theatres, this is the place to begin your week(end) in Dunedin.

Dunedin Public Art Gallery: Many of the designer presentations were held at the city’s largest art gallery. It’s worth visiting for its extensive collection of local, national and international artwork. Margarita Robertson of NOM*D’s exhibition, 3.33.12. will be running for the next month, so be sure to check that out!

Dunedin Town Hall: Again, many iD events were held at the town hall, but it’s worth visiting even if Fashion Week’s not on your radar.

The Regent Theatre: Located on the lower half of Dunedin’s central Octagon reserve, Regent regularly plays host to live theatre, music, opera, dance, and film. The sign reminds me of the old California theatres.

Dunedin Railway Station: “Gingerbread George,” as it’s affectionately known, the Railway Station connects Dunedin with several South Island destinations. It has also played host to iD Fashion Week for a number of years. Along with being the longest runway in the world, the station provides a unique setting for a spectacular event.

Moeraki Boulders: Though outside Dunedin, you’ll absolutely want to stop by these unusually large, spherical boulders that lie along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Moeraki Boulders: Though outside Dunedin, you’ll absolutely want to stop by these unusually large, spherical boulders that lie along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Also, if you’re heading to see the boulders, stop by Fleur’s Place for some of the freshest seafood and best service you’ll ever experience!

Baldwin Street: The steepest street in the world!

Beaches: There are many beaches in Dunedin, so take your pick!

Shop/

Shopping in Dunedin is surprisingly extensive and very local. Avoid the malls, and meander along George Street. Hit up Slick Willy’s, Belle Bird Boutique, and Plume for unique shops well-stocked with New Zealand designers and beyond. The Ruby shop here also deserves a mention for its fireplace!

Dunedin is such a stunning city filled with so much history! Regardless of how you spend your time here, you really can’t go wrong. I hope you have the chance to visit someday soon!

March 22, 2016
6 Tips For Moving To Another Country
Living overseas has been one of the most rewarding (and challenging) experiences of my life so far. It’s helped me understand different cultures, people, and places and has shifted my perspective about home and relationships. Had I not moved to New Zealand seven years ago, I’m not sure I would have had the courage to change my career path or seriously pursue writing and journalism. Though painful at times, these life changing experiences have imparted many lessons.

Image via Pinterest

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether moving overseas is right for you. You’ll likely need to factor in your family, your health, your finances, your friends, maybe even a partner or a pet. While motivations for moving can range from personal to professional, the experience will teach you more than you could ever imagine. It’s been awhile since 19-year-old me decided to apply for a study abroad program in New Zealand, so I wanted to share some tips I’ve learnt along the way:
1. Save money. Whether you’re moving for a job or to study, make sure you save as much as you can. It could take you several months to find work, (or in my case, to sort out my visa!) so cutting back on everyday indulgences prior to departure is one of the most important steps you can take. Plus, when you arrive, you’ll want to explore and experience everything, so it helps to have a little extra cash in your savings.
2. Decide where you want to go. This can be one of the trickiest decisions, and it helps to consider your contacts, the economy, the climate, your background, etc. Did you study Japanese at school? If so, maybe consider a move to Kyoto. What’s the medical system like? How affordable is health coverage? Some countries are easier to navigate than others and some systems are easier on foreigners.
3. Sort out your visa. Like I mentioned above, obtaining a work or study visa can be a tedious process. Despite having dealt with immigration both in the United States and New Zealand for the past nine years, I still haven’t figured it out entirely. That being said, sorting it out in advance is a lot less stressful than arriving on a three-month visitor visa and crossing your fingers that something works out.
4. Research. Once you’ve decided on a country and secured your visa, it’s time to learn as much as you can about your new home. What are the local customs and laws? What languages are spoken in your new country? After deciding on a city, look at neighbourhoods to determine where specifically you’d like to live.
5. Apply for jobs. This is easier said than done (and I’m speaking from experience). Unless you’re highly sought after in your field, securing a job before arrival is very difficult. I mean, 11pm Skype interviews are only fun for so long. In the very least, do your research and figure out where you’d like to work and keep an eye out for job postings.
6. Network. Before setting foot on New Zealand soil, I didn’t know a soul in the entire country. While my first few days were rather lonely, I felt like I could be whoever I wanted to be, reinventing myself. I was in a university setting, so making friends was inevitable. However, if you’re moving for work, networking is even more important. Ask a colleague out for coffee or join an expat group to commiserate with whenever you feel a twinge of homesickness.
I hope these tips proved helpful! If you’re considering a move overseas, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
March 3, 2016
Hong Kong Happenings

I had contemplated an extended layover in Hong Kong for awhile. However, with the Canadian dollar being so weak at the moment, I was initially apprehensive. After two weeks in Vietnam, Hong Kong’s prices felt noticeably high. Fortunately, we were only there for a few days and managed to survive in a teeny tiny hotel room for four nights.

Hong Kong has something for everyone. It’s a hub of activity and an eclectic mix of culture and consumerism. I was dying to experience both the old and new. Travellers will appreciate the traditional diners and eateries, the vibrant nightlife, the extraordinary views, and the seemingly infinite markets of Kowloon.

Sightseeing & Activities/

The Kowloon markets are so much fun and come in all shapes and sizes. Without a doubt, the flower markets were our favourite. We spent hours perusing the beautiful blooms on display and regretted not being able to take anything home with us.

Be sure to check out the Goldfish Market and Bird Market, both are unconventional and interesting, and the Ladies Market for souvenirs.

Hong Kong is known for its shopping and nightlife, but most of the brands are similar to what you’d find in North America and Europe. With our dollar being so weak, we steered clear of the malls and ventured to the aforementioned markets. If you’re looking to drop some cash, Causeway Bay is a good place to start.

Whatever you do, make sure you hike (rather than taking the tram) up to The Peak. It’s a fantastic workout and the spectacular view provides the perfect reward.

While most tour books highly recommend day tripping to see Big Buddha, we decided to give it a miss. Natalie had already been and I was satisfied with the Buddhas we had already seen in Vietnam. Maybe one day I’ll go back!

Eat/

The food scene in Hong Kong blew me away. Traditional diners, where not a word of English is spoken, sit alongside trendy cafés and ultra modern ice cream parlours that delight both the eyes and the tastebuds.

Oddies Foodies: My favourite spot, by far, was Oddies! The tiny storefront on Wan Chai Road is usually jam-packed with locals and tourists. The Hong Kong-style waffles look as good as they taste!

Via Tokyo: If matcha’s your thing, you’ll love Via Tokyo. The matcha soft-serve here is drool-worthy. And for those who prefer soft-serve in other variations, they’ve got that too!

Mido Cafe: This timeless cafe is straight out of the movies, in fact many Hong Kong movies were filmed here. The mint interior is timeless and charming. The food isn’t anything special, but the atmosphere makes up for it.

Little Bao: I’m bao-obsessed, and this place came highly recommended by several people. After a particularly gruelling hike up to the Peak, Natalie and I were craving something a little different. She had the vegetarian bao and I had the pork belly, and we were both thoroughly impressed by both the quality of the baos and the super friendly service.

Grassroots Pantry: After all the ice cream we’d inhaled, it was time to replenish with some greens. Grassroots Pantry, with its swoon-worthy interior and plating, is the place to do it.

Hello Kitty Chinese Café: While Natalie and I were the only adults there without children in tow, all my childhood dreams came true at the HK restaurant in Kowloon. The wait is worth it for the Hello Kitty dumplings, buns, cutlery and decor.

Coffee/

After drinking way too much Vietnamese coffee (usually instant coffee with condensed milk), I appreciated the vibrant cafe culture in Hong Kong.

The Cupping Room: The tiled floors at the Wan Chai branch are as iconic as the flat whites. Breakfast here also deserves a mention!

Elephant Grounds: Another solid option for fantastic coffee. Their ice cream also looked delicious, but I didn’t have a chance to try it!

Stay/

We had a bit of drama with our accommodation (which was no one’s fault but my own) and ended up staying at Mini Hotel – Causeway Bay. While the walls are paper-thin and the rooms are smaller than my closet, the location was perfect, which is really what I’m all about.

February 25, 2016
5 Reasons To Visit Auckland Now

Auckland is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the world. Despite being a relatively large city with 1.5 million residents, it feels more relaxed and slower paced than international cities like London, Hong Kong or New York. It seems like Aucklanders genuinely enjoy themselves and have established the perfect work-life balance.

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I’ve spent a good portion of my summer in the City of Sails, so why not compile a short list of why you should visit Auckland right now?

#1. The LightPath – a bit late to the party perhaps, the light path is Auckland’s answer to conquering urban sprawl and auto-dependence. While many say, “it’s only the start,” it still feels pretty wonderful to cycle and run above the traffic. Plus, it’s hot pink, so I can’t complain about that!

#2. There are countless publications devoted to discovering the latest cafes and eateries in every city, yet in Auckland I still manage to be consistently delighted by the food on offer. Prior to walking up to the top of Mount Eden at sunset, my friend and I decided to have dinner and discovered an authentic Italian restaurant (all the employees spoke Italian to one another) that I had yet to read about anywhere.

#3. When I first moved to New Zealand, I was (and still am) in awe of the beaches. You can’t go past Muriwai and Piha, two rugged West Coast surf beaches. We spent four amazing days up in Mangawhai Heads, which is just over an hour drive from Auckland.

#4. Everyone talks about the amazing coffee culture in New Zealand, but specifically Wellington. Auckland has really upped its game in recent months. My favourite café is Ceremony in Grafton.

#5. Only a 40-minute ferry ride from central Auckland, Waiheke is an enjoyable day trip. Hang out at Oneroa Beach and stop at The Oyster Inn for lunch or visit Mudbrick and Cable Bay Vineyards.

February 15, 2016
Goodbye Toronto!

From the moment I stepped off the subway at Osgoode Station, leisurely rolling my suitcase across the streetcar tracks, I knew I’d love living in Toronto. It was a place I had visited as a child, and then again in my late adolescent years. When I graduated university, I applied to every editorial internship I could find in Toronto because “if I could make it in Toronto, I could make it anywhere,” or so was my mantra. Over the past two and a half years, Toronto has continued to surprise and enchant me. City life is less overwhelming than when I first arrived, but no less impressive. And it is with both excitement and apprehension that I say goodbye to this wonderful city.

Nick has accepted a job as a policy planner in his hometown of Christchurch, New Zealand. Yes, that Christchurch. The one that was ravaged by two earthquakes, devastating the downtown core, claiming the lives of 185 people, and displacing thousands more from their homes and jobs. Even thinking about the move overseas has been emotional, and we haven’t started packing up our apartment. Not only is Christchurch so far from home, it will differ from what I’ve known in countless ways. Having lived and studied in Auckland, all of my friends are there. So yes, I’ll be closer to them, but still so far.

I recall my first visit to the Garden City in 2009, pre-earthquake. Almost immediately, I remarked how I could see myself living here, even settling down in this stunning city surrounded by ocean and mountains. Nick has often spoken about how he’d like to return, to help rebuild his parents’ home; a beautiful Victorian that will soon be torn down. His new job will allow him to influence Christchurch’s rebirth through public transport and accessibility. Having the foresight to envision a lively, vibrant community, Christchurch is projected to be a cycling city where people gather in the town centre. The New York Times even published an article about the many reasons to visit Christchurch, post-quake. I have no doubt that Christchurch will rise above the rubble like many great cities struck before it. Just look at San Francisco and New Orleans, both experienced revitalization and surges in tourism following devastating natural disasters.

There have been many incredible initiatives taking place in Christchurch, demonstrating the compassion and strength of its residents. In a world of war and turmoil, it’s important to acknowledge the small victories of a city’s rebirth and the humanity of its people. It invigorates my spirit to know that in times of need, communities step up in order to help one another heal and get back on their feet.

July 20, 2015
Auckland City Guide

I’ve talked about my time in Auckland on this blog before, but have failed to recap my most recent trip to the South Pacific. After starting our big boy and girl jobs in Toronto, Nick and I didn’t have the chance to return to NZ until March this year. Our three-week trip (which included stops in San Francisco, Auckland, Wellington, Waihi Beach, Sydney, and Los Angeles) was a whirlwind, to say the least. With several friends and family to see, and work to complete, the trip seemed to fly by. In the end, we only spent one full week in Auckland. Our friends, Annie and Andrew put us up, and they were the absolute best hosts!

Auckland remains one of my favourite cities, which is why I’ve decided to put together a list of some of my must-visit spots. This list features places I frequented both as a student and new places I discovered this time around!

Please note that public transport in Auckland isn’t the most reliable way to get around. If you’re covering a lot of ground over a few days, it’s best to rent a car.

Cafés and Eateries
Unlike North America, New Zealand has managed to achieve the perfect balance of café and restaurant. All restaurants are fitted with espresso machines, and all employees seem to know how to pull a decent shot. Similarly, all cafés also serve delicious, healthy eats rather than just cookies or pastries. These are some of my favourites:

The Return of Rad – Mount Eden
Rad is really the best way to describe this coffee shop. The baristas are passionate about coffee, and the food on offer is equally delicious.

Dizengoff – Ponsonby Road
Straight off the plane, Annie took us to local favourite, Dizengoff. I had a bite of her creamy mushrooms, and they were out of this world. The flat whites are worth writing home about as well.

Moustache Milk and Cookie Bar – Wellesley Street West
Dangerously close to the University of Auckland campus, Moustache is the best place for an afternoon treat. With freshly baked cookies and homemade milkshakes in a variety of flavours, you’ll find it hard to stay away.

Best Ugly Bagels – City Centre
I wish Best Ugly had been around during my university days. The Montreal-style bagels reminded me of home, and were hand-rolled and baked by wood fire right before my eyes. There’s an assortment of toppings to choose from, and coffee is from Havana in Wellington.

Craven ‘A’ – Symonds Street (University of Auckland campus)
A staple for the hungry student, the coffee and breakfast at Craven ‘A’ are always on point.

Charlie and George – Mount Wellington
When meeting my uni friend, Ashley for lunch, we were both craving something healthy and wholesome. Fortunately, Charlie and George truly excels in this department. I was a big fan of their Green Goddess smoothie that’s filled with spinach, mint and kiwi fruit, apple, banana, honey, and spirulina. All the good stuff!

Shaky Isles – Britomart, Kingsland, and Auckland Airport
The food here is remarkable, especially their hearty breakfast options, but their space on Customs Street East is really what drew me in. I love the high ceilings and brick walls. Also, the branding is particularly on point. I could spend hours here writing an essay or catching up with friends.

Restaurants and Bars
We didn’t eat out for dinner too much on this trip as we were fortunate to spend our evenings with close friends. For an updated list of must-visit restaurants and bars, check out Gather and Hunt.

Sightseeing
It feels like Auckland is completely surrounded by water. Wherever you are, you are never more than 20 minutes from the ocean. Having lived in land-locked cities for most of my life, this feature was all-the-more appealing to me. It’s also worth mentioning that Auckland’s beaches are beautiful, the water isn’t too cold (even in early autumn when we were there). You won’t regret packing your togs (which is Kiwi for swimsuit) and spending a few hours at any of the many beaches. That being said, here are some more ‘urban’ must-sees:

Auckland Art Gallery
This gallery was one of my favourite places to spend an afternoon after classes. The architecture is breathtaking and there are always a lot of exhibitions on offer. I personally enjoyed when they featured Dalí and Dégas.

Auckland Art Gallery

Auckland War Memorial Museum – Auckland Domain
One of New Zealand’s most important museums with collections that focus on Auckland’s history. Constructed in the neo-classicist style, the museum is one of Auckland’s most iconic buildings in the Domain, a public park close to the CBD.

The University of Auckland campus
I may be biased, but I think my alma mater is one of the most stunning university campuses. The combination of lush greenery and interesting architecture make it a must-see Auckland destination. During my visit, I spent a few hours working from the campus library and the rest of the day sitting in Albert Park, which overlooks the university clock tower.

Shopping
New Zealand fashion is always innovative and fresh. While I love the simple elegance of Parisians and the wacky, cutting-edge looks donned by Londoners, nothing compares to my love of Kiwi designers. Perhaps being so far removed from Europe and North America has positively influenced the way New Zealanders dress. The beach and surf culture certainly influence New Zealand fashion, but not to the extent they do in Australia. Aucklanders tend to wear a lot of black in the winter, but it’s never boring. The following are must-visit shops in Auckland.

Moochi – multiple locations
I always passed by High Street while walking from campus to the bus, and almost always popped my head into Moochi. The designs here are simple and no-nonsense, easy to wear from daytime to night. The transeasonal pieces can be worn by students and professionals alike, and are made from high quality materials and fabrics.

Twenty-Seven Names – multiple locations
Twenty-Seven Names is out of my budget, but I love perusing the racks, and dreaming of adding a piece or two of the whimsical yet professional items to my wardrobe one day.

Ruby – multiple locations
I was most enamoured by Ruby when I first moved to Auckland. Quirky and whimsical, I obsessed over the bright prints and interesting colour palettes that appeared in their shop window, season after season. While my style has become a lot more practical and basic post-university, I still feel giddy when stepping into my pieces from Ruby.

Made – Customs Street East
Made is a treasure trove for those who love fashion and design. The store itself retains much of the original detailing of the old warehouse space. Raw brick walls and distressed woodwork are offset with lush cut-glass chandeliers and vintage furniture: the perfect backdrop for MADE’s eclectic, ever-changing line-up of beautiful, colourful and offbeat pieces.

Neuw Storeroom – Customs Street East
Located right beside Made, is Neuw Storeroom, the best place for all your denim needs!

The Department Store – Takapuna
Located on Auckland’s North Shore, the Department Store is a one-stop shop. Want to purchase racks filled with New Zealand’s top designers, and then settle in for a hair appointment or facial? This is the place to do it. Three storeys-high, you’ll encounter a coffee bar, Coffee General surrounded by lush botanicals by Annie O on the ground floor. This floor is also filled with classic Kiwi favourites. Climb the winding staircase to the second floor where you’ll want to stop in to Lucy and the Powder Room for a manicure, facial, or eyelash extensions. Finally, the third floor is chock-full with Stephen Marr, my favourite place to get a haircut, Topshop (it was the UK brand’s first foray into the New Zealand market before opening their Queen Street flagship) and covetable designers. For more details on specific retailers, click here.

Auckland has so much to offer, and this guide only scratches the surface. Please let me know your favourite spots in the comments sections, and I’ll be sure to make additions in my next guide.

Stay tuned for my mini Wellington and Sydney guides next!

May 14, 2015
DETROIT IS NOT DEAD

This is a love letter to Detroit.

It’s not a place for the faint of heart; it’s not Disneyland, the Mall of America, or the Las Vegas strip.

Detroit is gritty and honest; perhaps the most honest place I’ve ever been. It’s both new and old, beautiful and broken.

A trip to Detroit will leave you haunted yet invigorated, and its authenticity may alarm you.

*

“Don’t go to Detroit, you’ll get stabbed,” they said.

“It’s the most dangerous place in America,” they said.

“Detroit filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy protection last year,” they said.

Detroit is a dichotomy. Yes, there are abandoned buildings, lots of them. Yes, there is decay and poverty, lots of it. But the people of Detroit haven’t given up on their city, and neither should you.

Signs of new development and community projects include Dequindre Cut Greenway, The Heidelberg Project, the bicycle lanes (yes, this auto centric city is actually big on cycling), a thriving new business scene, which includes standouts like Slows Bar BQ, Astro Coffee, Sugar House, Motor City Brew Works, El Dorado General Store, Anthology Coffee, and Trinosophes. Of course, the Eastern Market (oldest and biggest of its kind in America) is still a must-visit. Talk to any of the young creatives who inhabit this city, and their energy will inspire you.

My favourite brunch was at Parks and Rec Diner, newly opened and housed in the iconic G.A.R. building!

As far as where to stay, I’d suggest booking Honor & Folly, a design-focused bed and breakfast right above Slows!

Detroit was shaped by risk takers and visionaries. A quick visit to the Henry Ford museum and the Ford Rouge Factory will provide you with some context of how this industrial city was shaped. I can’t overstate how the rise and fall of the automobile is at the core of Detroit’s demise. The factory still pumps out F150s according to dealership orders, and every employee can answer any question you might have about Henry and the automotive industry. There’s even a rooftop garden you can visit as part of the tour.

A visit to Corktown (where we stayed) will surely surprise you. Detroit’s oldest neighbourhood is experiencing a revival with the influx of restaurants, public artworks, markets, and parks. We happened upon a modern marching band festival, “Crash Detroit” while exploring the area. We sipped cocktails made from local ingredients while gazing up at the both derelict and awe-inspiring Michigan Central Station. Unlike Toronto, which is highly regulated, the security guard at Crash Detroit encouraged us to leave the beer garden to dance and mingle. “Enjoy yourselves, this is Detroit after all.”

July 21, 2014
My tips for travelling lightly

I had just finished writing a lovely post filled with my travel wisdom and woes. Unfortunately, WordPress decided it wasn’t that great of a post because it’s vanished (even after having saved it multiple times). Regardless, I will leave you with a condensed list of travel advice I’ve learned over the years. As you may already know, I’m taking my first (computer-free) two-week holiday next week. I’ll be visiting London, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and Prague with my friend, Annie – and visiting other comrades along the way.

HOW TO TRAVEL LIGHTLY:

1. You don’t need five pairs of shoes. Aim to pack two to three, and specifically for your plans. I’m attending the Royal Ascot Races in London, so I need a pair of heels. I’ve decided to pack my Swedish Hasbeens (the clogs in the photo above) because they are versatile enough to wear throughout my travels.

2. I understand the desire to pack your dslr camera, especially if photography’s your thing. However, I often challenge myself to leave my Nikon at home at least every couple trips. Instead, I pack a point-and-shoot or my iPhone.

3. Many budget airlines charge extra for checked in luggage. If you can, save your time and money and take only a carry-on.

4. Neck pillows are king!

5. Three words: Thick wool socks. If you must pack heels (or boots), wear them on the plane, and take them off as soon as you sit down. Put on your thick wool socks, and revel in the comfort. Thank me later!

6. Layer up on the flight. It will save you precious luggage space and the air conditioning is pumping through those vessels.

7. Download city guides (I love Wallpaper Guides by Phaidon) and Rick Steves Audio Europe. Not only will they get you excited for the places you’re about to see, it’s important to gain perspective on the landmarks and monuments in the cities you’re visiting.

8. Book your accommodation in advance! Hostels and hotels tend to fill up fast during high season.

9. Travel by train at least once while in Europe. Catching a train is part of what makes Europe such a special place. Also, the views are spectacular.

10. Don’t fret if you don’t see everything on your travel to-do list. Take it from a chronic planner, sometimes it’s better to take it easy and wander. You’re on holiday after all!

What are your travel tips? I can’t wait to hear about your adventures! xo

June 14, 2014
Mont Tremblant

Mont Tremblant, the highest peak in the Laurentians, received its name from an Algonquin Indian legend in which the angry god Manitou gave the mountain a good shake whenever humans disturbed nature in any way.

I don’t see why anyone would ever tamper with Tremblant’s beautiful surroundings; from the crisp pine trees and piles of fresh powder, it’s the perfect city break.

If you’re tired of Toronto’s simultaneously slushy and bitter winter climate, an escape to Tremblant will reinvigorate your love for winter. It’s the snow globe we rarely experience in the Big Smoke. Winter in the city is frustrating and relentless, however, in the mountainous regions of Quebec, it’s breathtaking.

My family recently visited Mont Tremblant. After skiing the Rockies all my life, the Laurentian Mountains were a welcome treat! I’d highly recommend visiting, and partaking in both the skiing/snowboarding aspect, but also après ski (which is a post for another day!)

For more Tremblant photos, check out my Instagram!

Also, I have a surprise in store! Stay tuned! xo

April 5, 2014