48 hour guide to Amsterdam

Well hello to you my reader chums! If you're a regular reader of this blog then you'd know about my love for travelling. A place I've always wanted to visit was Amsterdam. The endless canals, biking way of life, and its historic significance had a place in my heart that I wanted to explore. I found a fab flight deal (only £46!) with EasyJet so decided to make a trip there.  With only 2 and a bit days in the city, I made a plan and researched everything I wanted to see.

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Here's my take on a 48-hour guide to Amsterdam...

Lines of colourful bikes, canals at every turn, and bursts of nature all around, you can't fault the natural beauty of Amsterdam. Everywhere you look it's a picture moment, whether that's a bicycle propped up against a canal, the twin buildings, or blooming flowers, it's a city not to miss.

There are 101 things you can do in Amsterdam from the museums, endless walking paths, restaurants, shops to sightseeing, bike, and boat tours, you need to prioritize what you want to see if you're there on a short-term basis. With this guide, I'm going to run through my must-sees and tips, to help make your planning a little bit easier.

I arrived in Amsterdam on a Thursday night and delved into hopping on a tram, to get a general idea of how the public transport worked before the two big days panned out. A tram stop was outside my Air BnB which stopped in Central Station, the prime location to hop onto any tram for each region of Amsterdam. The accommodation is pretty pricey in the centre of Amsterdam and I would recommend booking a hotel or hostel slightly out of the centre and travel in each day to save money.

Day 1 - Anne Frank's house, Museum Quarter, Jordaan district, and Dam Square

Anne Frank's house Amsterdam

Westermarkt

On the first day, I headed straight to Westermarkt where the famous Anne Frank House stands, a landmark I've always wanted to see. If you use the tram to reach this location, the stop is only a 5-minute walk from the house. 

I'd recommend booking online tickets with a time slot to visit the house, otherwise, you could be queueing up for hours to get in. Anne Frank's House was beyond any words. She's such an inspiring young writer and through reading her diary, I really related to her love of writing that when I walked through the house I couldn't help but feel emotional. It was moving yet an insightful experience to what hiding was really like during the war. I was astonished by the size of the annex they lived in and the grueling reality that happened. This has to be my number 1 must-see to any Amsterdam newbie.

The surrounding Westermarkt was stunning; its beautiful canal boats and quaint cafes warmed my heart, I could walk around the area forever to take it all in.

Canals in Amsterdam

Amsterdam letters in Museum quarter

Museum Quarter

When in Amsterdam, you have to visit one of their famous museums. The Museum Quarter is home to their top three, the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum as well as the big I AMSTERDAM letters. 

There are also cafes and restaurants surrounding the area if you'd like to stop off for a bite to eat. I first made a stop at the letters to get a candid snap of each of us in them then took myself around the area. Out of the three, I chose the Van Gogh Museum to visit as I knew the most about his work.

Amsterdam letters Museum Quarter

Rijks museum Amsterdam

Van Gogh museum Amsterdam

The Van Gogh museum was ever so interesting. I've never been a major art enthusiast, however, seeing his work and learning more about his background was truly eye-opening. His drawings are amazing to witness in person and I loved finding out the inspiration behind each one. I'd highly recommend visiting!

Dam Square

Only a short stroll from Central Station stands Dam Square, a bustling area for locals and tourists. The centre features the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace), Madame Tussauds, and the National Monument that's opposite the palace. With hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and shops, it's a focal point of Amsterdam and we loved looking around, absorbing the busy city vibe.

Jordaan district Amsterdam

Jordaan district

On a quieter note, Jordaan is the opposite of Dam Square with a much calmer vibe and less going on, however a charming location for a lovely stroll. I'd describe it as the 'Brooklyn of New York' because it's more residential than tourist-based and doesn't feature as many restaurants nor shops. It had that quiet appeal with the Amsterdam beauty shining through. I took a walk through here before heading back into central for dinner.

Day 2 - Vondelpark, Red Light District, canal cruise, and Glow Golf

Vondelpark Amsterdam

Vondelpark

Sometimes you can't beat a charming little walk in the park and that's exactly how we began our second day in the city. Vondelpark is a hidden gem of Amsterdam and it's not raved about enough! The draping trees, quaint streams, and ongoing bikes create a calm atmosphere you wouldn't want to leave. There were dog walkers, best friends cycling through and old couples chatting along on benches as the morning passed by; it was beautiful.

Vondelpark Amsterdam

City strolls

Amsterdam has natural beauty at every angle so wherever you are, a historic building or stunning canal will take your eye. Even if you're there for a short amount of time, take a break from the agenda and walk around to get a glimpse of hidden gems and see what you can discover.

48 hours in amsterdam

Bloemenmarkt (Flower market)

Amsterdam is renowned for its tulips so when you're there don't forget to take a stroll down to the Bloemenmarkt. It's located in a charming little area with bakeries, cafes, and shops. The flowers are a treat to admire as they smell amazing and look even better. You can purchase your own seeds, real flowers, and fake ones, whichever floats your boat.

Flower market Amsterdam

Canal cruise

Amsterdam has thousands of canals running through the city so what better way to see it than a canal cruise? In the tourist centre, they offer various different tours from 1-hour cruises, hop on/hop off to dinner, and a cruise. 

I chose the hour option, as it gave us the opportunity to go round the canals and learn a bit about the city's history. Riding along the canals, it felt so peaceful and the views were phenomenal; I loved every minute.

Canal cruise Amsterdam

Canal cruise

Canal tour in Amsterdam

Red Light District

Amsterdam has a weird and wild side to it, that being the Red Light District. I took a gander around in the afternoon and it was everything I thought it would be. There's the sex museum, erotic shops, and ladies waiting in the window, something you don't see back in England. I can imagine, it's a bustling and crazy atmosphere at night but unfortunately, we didn't have time to visit in the evening.

Red light district in the day Amsterdam

Love lock bridge amsterdam

Glow Golf

Before the trip, I saw a 'Glow in the dark' mini-golf in Amsterdam advertised on Facebook and added it to the 'must-sees' straight away. When I arrived, I discovered it was the downstairs of a pub and couldn't wait to begin. They gave you 3D glasses which made the game extra fun but also a little bit hard. It was so inventive and I loved the different experiences!

Glow golf amsterdam

Tips and tricks for visiting Amsterdam
  • Public transport is easy - I took the tram everywhere in Amsterdam as I found it was the most accessible way to everything I wanted to see. You're able to buy a 48-hour pass for only 12.50 euros and you'll definitely get used out of it. If you're ever in doubt of which direction to go, take a tram back to central station and go from there or ask one of the tram drivers which is the best route as they are always incredibly helpful
  • Walk everywhere- Yes, I got the tram a lot but also found for a few things, going by foot was best. This way you can take in the ambiance and discover new places you wouldn't have seen before.
  • Look out for bikes - I underestimated how significant bikes are in Amsterdam. Every single resident practically rides one so watch out as you're walking or they could knock you over. As you go throughout the city, you'll see thousands parked up ready for their owners to collect.
  • Know the difference between coffeeshop and café - Coffeeshops are cannabis cafes and cafes are your usual coffee shop.
  • Use an Uber instead of taxis - Taxis can be pretty expensive in Amsterdam so if you'd prefer to get around my car, order an Uber as they're efficient and much cheaper.
  • Beware of pickpockets - Like, in every city, pickpockets are around. Always keep an eye on your bag if you're at a bar or restaurant and know the whereabouts of your important personal belongings.
48 hours in amsterdam

Amsterdam was everything I could have wished for and more. The picturesque views, calm canals, and safe environment made you feel at home. I loved learning all about Amsterdam's history, talking to locals, and immersing myself in somewhere new. Amsterdam, I will be back!

I hope you enjoyed this 48-hour guide to Amsterdam. Have you ever visited?

Thank you for reading <3

August favourites

Well hello to you my reader chums! After the ups and downs of British summer weather, we're slowly coming into the Autumn season, let's wave hello to September. I can't be the only one to say this but August did really sweep by, like all our summer months with the exciting season of Christmas that lays ahead. I have so much love for autumn; with the leaves falling off the trees, its cosy nights in, the best fashion options and makeup looks, it can't get much better. Through August, I hadn't tried out many new beauty items, however a few did catch my eye.

Here are my August favourites...

August favourites 2017

Too Faced sweet peach palette

Too Faced Sweet Peach palette

I received this palette for my birthday and fell in love with the shade selection. Its packed with a variety of colours from everyday neutrals, warm browns/reds with bright pinks and purples thrown in. The Too Faced Sweet Peach palette has something for everyone, whether you love a toned down look or want to go wild with a bright pink. You can't fault the intense pigmentation, colour pay off, blending ability and endless lasting power; like all Too Faced products, this palette is top quality. I can't wait to use the warmer shades for the winter months and continue using its neutral shades. I'll be doing a review and makeup look very soon so keep your eyes peeled for that post!

Makeup revolution blending sponge

Makeup Revolution sponge

I'm the biggest fan of using sponges to blend liquid base products as I find they give the most even coverage and reach every angle of the face. My favourite to use are the Real Techniques take on them because they're incredible quality and do the job. However, I received a Makeup Revolution brush set lately and in it came their dupe on the beauty blender. After giving it a go, I was very impressed. It's slightly smaller than the Real Techniques option, however holds the product and provides that even coverage I love. The only down side is makeup stains the sponge very easily and can be hard to wash off. Yet, if you're looking for a dupe of the beauty blender or Real Techniques version, I'd recommend Makeup Revolution's sponge.


Tresemme Keratin Smooth deep conditioning treatment

TRESemme deep smoothing mask

My hair has a natural curl to it and can generally look quite dry, given its slight frizzy state. When it comes to a hair wash routine, I like to incorporate highly conditioning products to bring out the shine and keep it smooth. This deep conditioning treatment helps a lot. I like to use Tresemme smoothing mask on every other hair wash as too much product for the hair isn't too good. After leaving it on for a few minutes, I really notice the difference and once my hair is dry, it feels silky smooth; a must with hair products for me.

Zoella beauty Sweet Inspirations mist

Zoella Sweet Inspirations body mist

Zoella Beauty mists are completely underrated. I've found that as their scents are so strong, you can wear them like a perfume and they'll last all day long. 'Sweet Inspirations' has become my favourite at the minute because I'm addicted to the sweet scent. It reminds me of a mix between sweet shops and a spa, yet completely moreish, you want to keep spritzing. With sweet scents, I always find they can be too sickly, however this is much more of a lighter option which lingers throughout the day.

I hope you enjoyed my August favourites. What's your go to product at the minute?

Thank you for reading <3

Glamping experience and Brighton ventures

Well hello to you my reader chums! The weekend just gone, I was whisked away by my best friends in celebration of my birthday. I turned 21 in June and they surprised me with a glamping experience in a yurt and a day out in Brighton.  

Glamping at Hales Farm Chiddingly

After a 2 hour drive, we arrived at Hales Farm in Chiddingly, Lewes, located around 45 minutes from Brighton. On-site, there were horses, sheep, a few other glamping pods, pitched tents, and cleaning facilities; I loved it. The environment was ever so peaceful; living in a seaside town, I sometimes forget how quiet a place can be with the only noise on the farm, its animals in the distance, and fellow campers. I strangely loved that silence, it made our conversations that extra bit louder, and as if we were the only ones there in our little world.

Glamping at Hales Farm Chiddingly

Inside the Yurt

Once stepping in the yurt, I was amazed by how super cute and efficient it was for the 5 of us. There was one double bed, a sofa bed, and a camp bed, enough space to accommodate us all for a good night's sleep. The yurt provided a sink, camping stove, indoor wood burner, outdoor dining table, mini BBQ, and all the cutlery you could need. As our little home that night, it lived up to all the glamping excitement.

Glamping in a yurt at Hales Farm Chiddingly

Glamping at Hales Farm Chiddingly

Glamping at Hales Farm Chiddingly

The girls put on a BBQ, we drank wine, they sung a belated happy birthday with a surprise cake and we chatted all night long until our eyes shut; it was everything I could have wanted. Having that time with my best friends, away from technology and Wi-Fi, somewhere so peaceful was incredible. It's times like that you appreciate what life is really all about, the little things.

Glamping in a Yurt at Hales Farm Chiddingly

I'd never thought to go glamping myself so for my girls to plan it was really special. We had the best cosy night in and I loved every single moment. The pictures we shot captured the perfect snippets of our night away that I wish we could have stayed for another night to relax even more.


Brighton beach

Day trip to Brighton

On Sunday morning, we headed down to Brighton, my favourite ever UK city. With the calm environment mixed with that city bustle, I love everything about Brighton. Its charming seaside scene, endless shops, quirky discoveries, restaurants, and overall beauty. There's always something going on, yet you never feel crowded like in London for instance. As I'm a beach baby, I think it combines my love for the seaside with that ambition to be a city gal.

Brighton seafront

Brighton seafront

Glamping needs to be on everybody's bucket list, whether for one night or a long weekend, it's a crazy amount of fun with your best friends. I just wanted to give a massive shout-out to Danielle, Chloe, Molly, and Lily who organised this trip for my 21st. I'm incredibly grateful and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I'd love to spend more time in the countryside, it made me feel at such ease, even waking up to the sound of horses was a crazy moment in itself. Brighton, you'll forever be my favourite place in the UK and I can't wait to visit you again soon.

I hope you enjoyed this weekend's post. Have you ever stayed in a yurt?

Thank you for reading <3

5 Top packing tips for your carry on bag

Well hello to you my reader chums and long time no see! The past few weeks have been crazily busy but I'm excited to be back, typing away at a new post. I've been travelling a lot lately, whether it's abroad, going up to London for a couple of days or spending the weekend with family, a lot of packing has taken place. If you're looking to prevent excess baggage costs on a plane or spending a few days in the next county over, here are my best packing tips for your carry on bag.

5 Top packing tips for your carry on bag

1) Pack multi-purpose clothing

Carry-on suitcases tend to have a lot of room in them, however if you can save space, then do it. Items like jeans and jackets can be used for a variety of different looks so there's no need to pack more than what you need. If it was a slightly cooler location, I'd suggest packing a pair of jeans (depending on the length of the trip) and a variety of tops as they're very lightweight with a versatile jacket, either denim or leather. For a summery location, swap out the jeans with shorts and pack either dresses or playsuits, as the lightweight material can be rolled up, packed in the suitcase, neatly.

2) Wear your heaviest clothing items

If you are travelling abroad and only using carry on, wear your heaviest items to keep the suitcase's weight down. Most airlines have a 10kg weight limit, however some can be lower or higher than this. Items including trainers, boots, larger coats and denim clothing can all add to the weight than your typical t-shirt. If you're able to, wear these items for the journey.

3) Minimalize your beauty products

As a beauty blogger, lover of all makeup, skincare and haircare, it's a tricky task minimising which products to bring when going away. For makeup, I'll tend to bring my smallest eye shadow palette, two lip options, a nude and bolder shade, then my standard everyday makeup. Skincare and haircare is usually the tricky bit. Either I bring the mini-version of my makeup remover (which is a 2 in one cleanser and makeup remover) and a moisturiser or switch to makeup wipes if it's only one night. To save on space, you can bring a 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner or head over to your local supermarket to purchase mini haircare products. Or there's the option to put all your products in 100ml bottles, which are available to buy anywhere; Primark do them for a few pounds!

4) Rollerball perfumes

Everybody loves a good perfumer spritz before the start of the day, however when it comes to carry-on, there's the chance a lovely glass bottle could break. To prevent any damage, rollerball perfumes are the way forward. They're compact and light enough to pop in your bag or take wherever you go.

5) Buy a lightweight suitcase

I love travelling so took the plunge last year and bought matching white Tripp suitcases, one of my favourite luggage brands. Unlike typical suitcases, they're incredibly lightweight and only feel a lot heavier when they've been fully packed. By having a lighter suitcase, this will bring your baggage weight down on the plane, be easier to travel with and store away after the trip. Also, a four wheel suitcase, makes pulling a suitcase along much more fun!

I hope you enjoyed this post. What are your best packing tips for a carry on?

Thank you for reading <3