Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Travelling is my favourite thing as I love to explore new places, discover different cultures and learn about history and food. I'm blessed with the amount of travelling I've been able to do in my twenties, and I can't wait to see and tick more countries off my list.

If you need travel inspiration or are booking a new trip, here's a list of the top places I'd love to travel to.

St Lucia, Caribbean

The Caribbean seems like a place of paradise and relaxation, but also gorgeous jungle landscapes and a new culture of food and tradition to experience. St Lucia has been on my wishlist for a long time, because it's not only a sea, sand and sun paradise, but the home of beautiful mountains, rainforests and jungles. I also love how it is where Hotel Chocolat grow their cocoa, and there's an actual hotel near the cocoa farm where you can experience tours, a spa and classes.

Mauritus 

Another country with a dream landscape and heavenly beaches is Mauritius. I love the allure of experiencing the calm and tranquilness of this island, hiking in the national parks and experiencing their culture. I'm a beach gal, and nothing thrills me more than visiting a new country and continent and seeing what it offers.

Japan

I've had the pleasure of exploring the wonders of Asia, such as Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Indonesia and Singapore. Japan is a location that fascinates me because of the variety of the country, from the bustling cities, to the blossom trees and island scenes. I'd love to try authentic Japanese food, visit the incredible temples, learn the history and visit the cool places like Nintendo World.

Montenegro 

Everyone raves about Italy, Greece and Croatia, as they should, but I've also heard many brilliant things about Montenegro. The Balkan country has beautiful mountainous scenery, medieval villages and a serene beach scene - and I'd love to see what that's all about, and step away from the classic tourist trail. It looks wonderful in the summertime.

Wales 

Lately, I've been blessed to explore more of the UK, such as Edinburgh, York and Bath, but one place I've not explored is Wales. I adore sheep, love seeing more of the countryside and a peaceful escape, and think Wales is just that. There's so much beauty and variety between North and South Wales, and I'd love to be able to explore the quiet villages, hiking trails, mountainous routes, and quaint towns.

New Zealand

A dream destination is New Zealand. As a location, far away, it'll take a while to plan and save for, but the intrigue and wonder are incredibly strong. I've heard epic things about New Zealand, the countryside scene, mountains, nature and also how friendly the people are. I've also heard how exploring the north and south are widely different, which fascinates me! 

I hope you enjoyed this post. Where else would you like to visit?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! 2025 was the year when all my dreams came true, and I feel incredibly grateful, blessed and loved for everything the year brought me. I'm still in awe of all the big, amazing moments, but also the small and wholesome moments with all the people I love. 

2025 was a dream-worthy year, and I'm sharing all the highlights, from the little to the big moments. 

Having a baby 

I've dreamt of having a baby my whole life; all I ever wanted was to be a mum. This year, I found out I was pregnant with a little boy and excited doesn't even cover the feeling. It's like I've lived two lives in 2025; the first half of the year as normal, and from May, finding out I was pregnant, and then the rest of the year, growing my gorgeous little baby. Pregnancy has been a wild ride; I've struggled a lot, but overall, I've loved the privilege of carrying my baby and connecting with him over the last 9 months. 

I can't wait to meet him in 2026 and start our family of three!

Buying a house

After saving and planning for years, my partner and I bought our first home in 2025. We started the year generally looking at homes and figuring out where we want to buy, and then, we found the home after looking at 12 that just felt like ours. It was the longest wait, from submitting the offer and obtaining the mortgage to finally receiving the keys in autumn, but it was completely worth it. We moved just in time to prepare the house for the baby and make our place a home. There's still lots more to do, but I'm so excited for that process and to make memories here, especially with our baby. I love our house!

The best year with my partner

I'm incredibly grateful for my partner, his love, support are everything to me, and I feel so lucky to do life with him. We've had the best year with our accomplishments, and even though at times it has been stressful with buying a house, and going through pregnancy can be hard, his support, love and care have helped me through every step of the way. I can't wait to see what the next year brings for us as a couple!

The abroad adventures

I love to travel, as many of you may know, and I had the pleasure of visiting some gorgeous countries this past year, including Slovenia, France and Italy. In March, I spent a few days exploring the glorious Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj with a day trip to Ljubljana and fell in love with the country. Bled itself, even in the peak of rainy winter, was just gorgeous! In May/June, I attended my best friend's wedding in the South of France and had the pleasure of enjoying a road trip through some epic places, such as Rouen, Poitiers and Tours. 

The longest trip abroad this year was to Italy for our babymoon in September. We ventured to Genoa for 5 days exploring the Italian Riviera, and it was the perfect way to experience gorgeous sights, beach days, authentic food and a relaxing last trip away as the two of us. During the trip, we explored the wonders of Genoa and ate our weight in pesto and focaccia, a boat tour to Portofino, a day trip to Santa Margherita and Rapallo and a visit to Boccadasse Beach. 

Exploring more of the UK

I'm lucky enough to live by the seaside in the UK, but also close to many gorgeous locations to explore. This year, I went on a few staycations with my partner, friends and family, including a couple of trips to Brighton, the East and West Sussex countryside, and staying in a spaceship for my partner's birthday. I've loved exploring sweet countryside villages and beachside towns, trying out new food places and seeing local attractions, like Seven Sisters Countryside Park.

Quality time with friends and family

I'm grateful for all the massive wins this year, but the biggest blessing is the loved ones I have around me. Some of my favourite moments this year are spending time with my sister and her kids, going on walks with my partner, dinner parties with friends, and quality time with family members and close friends. The little moments where my heart felt so full, I couldn't stop laughing and smiling about how loved I felt.

Reading 34 books

I love to read, and I increased my goal this year to read 30 books, and I'm thrilled I exceeded the goal and read 34. My top few books include The Wrong Sister, Kala, Rock Paper Scissors, The Help and The Audacity by Katherine Ryan.

Spending lots of time outside at the beach and countryside

Living by the beach is my favourite thing, and I've always felt blessed that the sea is in such easy access.  This year, I loved spending as much time as possible on beach walks, swimming in the sea and exploring the local countryside. It has especially made me love and appreciate the countryside more and want to go on more hikes.

Hiring an editor for my book

I've wanted to take one of my books to the next stage for a while, and I had the opportunity to hire an editor this year to perform a developmental edit on it - and it has to be one of the best things I've paid for. The editor gave me the feedback I needed and the clarity on how to make the book the best it could be. I've spent the end of the year working on his suggestions and pitching the books to agents - let's hope one agent will pick it up!

Another successful year of my freelance business

I'm incredibly proud of my freelance business this year and the continued success of everything I've achieved this past year. My biggest highlights include booking consistent retainers and projects, working with both smaller and larger clients. I also spoke on a panel for the first time about caring for my mental health and practised slowing down as my pregnancy progressed, and planning for what maternity will look like as a business owner.

Starting my own networking event

One of my closest friends and I started our own networking event in 2025 and hosted 3 different events. I'm incredibly proud of us both for stepping outside our comfort zone and creating a community for new and established small business owners to connect and socialise without the pressure of networking. It has been a massive success, and I can't wait to see what the next year brings for the event!

Developing new friendships and strengthening old ones

I've made some cherish-worthy friendships this year, which have thrived and really shown up for me, and I feel so grateful for that. It has also been a year where I've appreciated and strengthened old and existing friendships, and my love for them is always growing.

Embracing the slower way of life 

Falling pregnant this year meant I had to fully embrace slowing down with my work and social plans and prioritising myself. Although it was hard at times, it has been the best thing for me as I've really embraced how living slowly and resting are incredibly beneficial. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What are your yearly highlights?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Pregnancy is a magical time, but also a challenging journey for expectant mothers. For those around them, whether you’re a partner, family, friends, or colleagues, sometimes you may wonder what the best way is to offer support.

If you're planning a trip to the Italian Riviera (Liguria region), here is my guide for 5 days and the best things to see and do.

Day one: Finding your feet in Genoa

• Take a morning flight into Genoa and catch a Volabus into the city centre
• Drop off luggage in the tourist centre and wander around the central area, including Piazza De Ferrari and Via Garibaldi
• Check into your accommodation and figure out your bearings
• Visit the Porto Antico, wander around that area and catch the sunset
• Dinner at Cavour21

Day two: Exploring Genoa's best sights and food

• Buy the 24-hour museum pass for 15 euros to access many palaces and museums
• Visit San Lorenzo Cathedral
• Visit Christopher Columbus House and Porta Soprana
• Walk through the Caruggi area (lots of cute alleyways)
• See San Siro church
• Go to Palazzo Reale, Piazza Ducale, Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco (all included in the pass and near each other)
• Catch sunset at Spianata di Castelletto
• Dinner at Le Mani Ristorante

Day 3: Boat tour to Portofino

• Book a day boat trip from the Porto Antico port (28 euros each), which stops off at Camogli, San Fruttuoso and Portofino
• In Camogli, enjoy a mooch around the town and swim in the dark pebbly shores
• San Fruttuoso is pretty small - enjoy a drink with the view or chill on the tiny beach
• In Portofino, wander around the colourful streets, grab a gelato (Gelataria San Giorgio) and explore the fancy shops. You can also take a 20-30 minute walk to the Baia di Paraggi beach
• Recharge after a gorgeous boat trip and have dinner at Osteria da Canneto, then take an evening city stroll

Day 4: Day trip to Santa Margherita and Rapallo

• Get the train to S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino station. (4.50 euros one way) 
• Mooch around the city centre and visit Villa Durazzo
• Walk along the promenade and have lunch with a view
• Lunch at Panificio Fiordiponti  
• Gelato spot: Gelataria Centrale
• Spend the rest of the afternoon on Spiagga Libera and go for a swim
• Take the train or bus to Rapallo and have a mooch before heading back to Genoa
• Dinner at Trattoria Rosmarino

• Wander around Genoa and visit the other churches, including Chiesa del Gesu dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea and the Church of San Matteo
• Get the bus to Corsa Italia and walk along the scenic walkway to Boccadasse Beach
• Spend a while relaxing on the beach and enjoying the view
• Gelato stop: Antica Gelataria Amedo
• Hop on a bus toward Genova Nervi and then walk along the coastline, before getting the train back to Genoa
• Dinner at Antica Isterua Di Vico Palla

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! I'm incredibly grateful I've spent my twenties travelling the world, exploring new places, including two backpacking trips, city breaks and longer holidays to see multiple places in one trip. 

Travelling is part of my soul and something I never want to stop; I'd love to be able to keep adventuring until I'm old and grey, making memories with loved ones.

If you're planning a holiday and unsure where to go, here are the best countries I've travelled to that I'd revisit again and again.

Sri Lanka

Canada

My road trip in Canada was an experience I'll never forget. The landscapes and mountainous scenery didn't look real, and I don't understand how lucky I am to have experienced it all. I took a road trip across Alberta and British Columbia, visiting Banff, Canmore, Jasper and Golden and soaking up the beauty along the way. Beforehand, I also visited Toronto and took Niagara Falls off my bucket list. 

Why do I want to visit again? I've never felt more at peace than in the surroundings of Alberta. Banff National Park had to be my favourite, especially Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, hiking to Lake Agnes, Johnston Canyon, Bow Falls, Banff Town and Canmore. Driving throughout Banff National Park was a dream where I didn't want to miss a second of the views. Beyond that, driving through Jasper National Park and Yoho National Park was just as gorgeous and magical.

Thailand

Thailand is a country I have visited multiple times and would love to revisit again. There's something magical about Thailand; it's called the 'Land of Smiles' for a reason. I have many gorgeous memories of Thailand from the two times I've visited, one time for 5 weeks and another for a week's trip. Thailand has plenty of beautiful islands with clear waters and incredible scenery, such as Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, Koh Tao and Koh Samui. Each island has its unique appeal, whether you'd prefer a party holiday, pure relaxation or watersports, such as snorkelling and scuba diving.

Aside from the gorgeous beach and island scene, Thailand has some of the very best foods, including curries, noodle dishes and rice meals. I also adored the cities, their beautiful temples and learning more about Thai history and their culture. 

Indonesia

I absolutely fell in love with Indonesia, more than I expected to, and I'm not only talking about Bali. Many people only visit Bali on their trip to the country, but there's so much more to the country than one island. Indonesia boasts diversity in terms of religion, historical sights, island cuisine and mountainous territory. 

Italy 

Italy is my favourite country and my most-visited country, and I had to include it in this list. It's hard to describe why I love Italy as it has been my obsession since I was a little girl and part of my heritage. There's much joy in Italy to explore, from the delicious food scene stretching from north to south, whether you love Bolognese, cured meats and tortellini to arrancini and pizza down south. It's the land of delicious, fresh food made from the heart. 

Italy has plenty to explore and variety across the country, from gorgeous cities to explore with their cobbled streets and old, historic buildings, lakes and mountainous towns with scenery you'll fall in love with and coastal towns with a charm like no other and picturesque scenery. I've visited 7 times across the country, but there are plenty of locations I'd see again, such as Lake Maggiore, Tuscany and Bologna. 

Switzerland 

Love chocolate and cheese? Switzerland is the land for you. I only ever heard positive things about Switzerland, and I'm happy to confirm it lives up to every positive review. The mountainous and lake towns, especially, are a gem to visit with scenery I could only dream of, matching the beauty of Canada's national parks. I fell in love with Spiez and Brienz and felt lucky to go up Mount Niesen. 

Zurich was also a massive surprise with its appeal, chocolate shops everywhere and delicious cheese fondue! The perfect place to eat as much as possible.

Vietnam 

I've visited Vietnam twice and I'm obsessed with the country for multiple reasons: the food, the diverse scenery, the history and the feel of the country. I can't explain why or how I love Vietnam, but there's something about it which is special to me. The rush of Hanoi, the quietness and gorgeous rice fields of Mai Chau, the beauty of Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay, boat tours in Tam Coc and quaint ambience of Hoi An. 

I could mooch and explore Vietnam forever, especially eat my way around it, with the banh mi, pho, rice pancakes, noodle dishes and curries. I'd love to roam around the wild streets of Hanoi, cycle around Hoi An, watch the mountainous view in Halong Bay and cycle along the peaceful rice fields.

Malaysia 

Malaysia is a country that surprised me on many levels. As it borders Thailand, I assumed the culture would be very similar; however, I couldn't be more shocked at the diversity. Malaysia's culture was diverse in terms of religion, history and food scene. Kuala Lumpur with its iconic skyscrapers, city appeal and noteworthy Batu Caves, Cameron Highlands with its hiking experiences and tea plantations, the national park in Penang and the calmness of Langkawi and the beaches.

Croatia 

I adored everything about Croatia, and I wish I could revisit to see more of the country. I've only seen Dubrovnik, and the capital was a gorgeous, historic city with plenty to see and relax on the many beaches. I loved the food, the vibes, the clear waters and the general peace - and I'd love to see more of Croatia's islands.

I hope you enjoyed this post. Which countries would you revisit?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Summer is my season; I love the hot weather, longer days, and the freedom that comes with it. In summer, I feel motivated to do lots of new or my favourite things outside. Wherever you live, summer changes people; you either have the people who relish in the warmth and activities, or try and look for shade and enjoy quiet time. 

Whatever summer is to you, here are some of my favourite activities you can do in the summertime. 

Swimming in the sea

I'm a beach baby; I grew up by the sea and I love nothing more than spending all day at the beach and the evenings too, especially in the summertime. I have to admit I only swim in the sea during summer, as I'm a massive wimp when the water is too cold. Swim to your heart's desire in the summer, whether it's a morning, beach day or sunset dip.

Picnics everywhere

There's no better joy than packing a picnic and heading out for an adventure that day. I love the homely feel of packing a picnic and choosing a fun destination for the day, whether that's your local park or a day trip to the countryside. Picnics are something you could plan as much as you like, and with as many people.

Hikes in your local area

I love a good hike, especially exploring somewhere new. I do go on hikes in the other seasons; however, they hit differently in the summer as you can enjoy a pub garden or ice cream afterwards and lap up the sunshine as you go. Hikes can be whatever you wish, whether it's an all-day thing or a morning stroll somewhere new. 

Day trips to historic attractions 

One of the best things about the UK is the level of historic attractions to explore, especially with the National Trust and English Heritage. All of these sites can be explored whenever, but during peak blue sky times, they are even more gorgeous, and you can enjoy the outside even more.

Sunset beach evenings

I'm a sucker for a sunset. I could watch the sunset every single night, as it's my favourite time of day, especially in the summer. There's something magical about watching the different colours light up the sky and bidding goodbye to another great day. Sunset beach evenings add to the magic, as you can enjoy your dinner, go for a dip in the sea and wrap up as the air gets cooler.

All the water fun 

When we finally experience some sun in the UK, appreciating the joy of water is everything. Outdoor aqua parks, swimming pools, and paddling pools in your own garden - there's nothing better than cooling down.

All your indoor activities outside

Winter is full of activities. The best thing about summer is that you can do them outside. From painting, crafting, picnics, games, to sports, like yoga and pilates. Embrace the joy of the outside as much as you can in the summer.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Travelling the world is a privilege, and I'm lucky I've seen 31 countries and hope I can see more places. I often get asked, 'How do you go on holiday so much?'. And one of my answers is learning to make the most of a short trip. Not every holiday has to be 2-3 weeks long; some of the best trips can be a long weekend or a couple of nights - it's how you maximise the trip.

If you're new to travelling, have limited annual leave, and want to make the most of your short trips, here are my best tips.

Visit multiple destinations

Short trips don't only mean a singular destination. It's easy to think you can't see more than one place if you have limited days, but that's far from the truth. Granted, with a short amount of time, you can't fully immerse and travel slowly, but you can still experience the highlights of a destination. Visiting multiple destinations can look different for everyone, whether you'd like to see a mix of city and beach or tick off a couple of towns on your trip. 

For example, if you're travelling to northern Italy, you can see Parma and Modena or Milan and Lake Como - both options are easily accessible by train. Or to see more than one country, you can get the train between Copenhagen and Sweden. Italy and Switzerland are also easily connected. The options are endless!

Research and set an itinerary for each day

I'm a queen of the itineraries and love to plan my trips extensively, ensuring I fit as many things in as possible in a day. It can be tiring and I understand not everyone is able, however, if you are, filling a day to the max can ensure you see as much as the destination, rather than miss out on highlights. The best way to fill an itinerary is to have a morning, afternoon and evening plan.

Utilise public transport systems

Unless you're on a driving holiday, public transport is necessary to explore more than the one place you're in. Whether it could be a bus or a train, most cities are easily connected, which means you can enjoy the public transport systems and explore as much as possible.

Research day trips from your location

Day trips are a joy when you're on a city break as you can explore the city and see the country's more rural or coastal side. Research the best day trips around where you're visiting, as there could be an exciting tour, an underrated destination or a dreamy beach which you may fall in love with.

Book the early and late-night flights

Early and late-night flights may be inconvenient, but you'll have more time in your destination. For example, if your flight is 2-3 hours and it leaves at 7am, you'll arrive in your destination mid-morning and be ready to explore by lunchtime, once you've settled into your accommodation and travelled from the airport. With late-night flights, you'll have more time to explore on your last day as you won't need to head to the airport until the evening, so really, you'll have an entire day to tick off more highlights. 

Get started early each day

Making the most of a short trip isn't the most relaxing experience, however, it means experiencing as much as possible on your holiday. Each day, get up as early as you can to see the sights before the crowds and tick off a lot on a day.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! I'm a summer girl. I love the sunshine and the joy it brings. Everything feels better in the summer: the longer days, endless ice cream, warm weather, cute dresses and a peppy spirit in the air. Although with summer, everything gets busy and there's this massive pressure to have a million big plans and book all the events.

This is your reminder to make the most of the summer. It's not about the big things; it's about the little things. If you're feeling overwhelmed with the summer season, here is how to make the most of summer without massive plans.

 The slow life. The peaceful life.

Seagulls and birds chirping every morning. The sound of the waves wherever I go.

Living by the sea is everything, a dream and all I've ever known. 

The coastal breeze, the endless 99s, sandy toes, the lingering smell of seaweed.

Mornings spent on the sands, watching the sunrise, lapping up that vitamin D.

The peaks of summer afternoons. Laughing children. Talking adults. Sandcastles everywhere. The cracks of can openings, the spritz of suncream. The pages of the book are turning. The endless waves, ebbing in and out of the shore. The sounds of the seaside are nostalgic.

The sunsets at the beach hit differently. Year-round, on a clear day, the colours of the sky are everything. Red. Orange. Pink. Purple. The joy of colour and magic as the sunset paints the beach every night. 

Living by the seaside is a joy all year round. The summer peak is underway for a hot minute. But the magic is during the quieter time when the beach is all mine. The tourists and day trippers leave, and my seaside town is mine again. I can roam on beaches and feel free with few people. The peacefulness of the waves is mine and mine alone.

The swishing of the water is more aggressive in the off-season, as it feels every season. The chillier air, the cold ears and hot chocolates. I love the power of the waves, the smiles from locals and the peace I feel at the beach.

Living by the sea has shaped me. Living by the sea has given me peace, freedom and joy in nature and the wonders it can bring to my daily life. 

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Folkestone is a creative and colourful seaside town in Kent, England. I'm in love with Folkestone and over the last few years, it has become increasingly popular with Londoners and other tourists for its art scene, cool Harbour Arm area and quirky shops.

If you're planning a seaside break for the weekend in Folkestone, here is my guide on what to see and do in the coastal town.

What to see and do

The Leas

The Leas is one of my favourite areas of Folkestone because it's peaceful, has lots of green space and many things to do. You can have a stroll along the Leas and enjoy the views of the seaside and Harbour Arm, listen to music at the bandstand, have a picnic,  and soak up the summer sunshine or make use of seasonal events.  

The Leas has easy access to the beach, town and Harbour Arm as there are designated paths, such as the zig-zag path, to reach the key destinations.

Harbour Arm/Goods Yard Market 

As Folkestone's main attraction, you'll fall in love with the Harbour Arm. It's a destination with more than meets the eye and endless things you can do for all ages. There's the Goods Yard Market, which offers various food vendors, local artists and shops selling their work and the big screen, which shows films and sporting events throughout the year, especially in summer. The Goods Yard also offers live music regularly.

The Harbour Arm has other cafes, bars and restaurants along the arm, mini golf, an interactive darts venue (The Board Room), and is an ideal spot for a walk onto the beach.

Creative Quarter

Right next to the Harbour Arm is the Creative Quarter, a hub for creative shops. It's a colourful strip with cafes and something for everyone, including art prints, vinyls, cakes, toys, organic foods and much more. You can spend a while mooching in the shops, supporting local vendors and taking home a souvenir.

Explore the beaches

As a coastal town, you can't miss the beaches in Folkestone. Folkestone has a few beaches to wander along, enjoy a picnic, swim in the sea and have an ice cream. If you prefer sandy beaches, there's also Sunny Sands.

Walk to Sandgate

Sandgate is a gorgeous village in Folkestone, and a charming walk from the main hub of Folkestone. You can enjoy the pebbled beaches as you walk into Sandgate. The village has many cafes, delis, furniture shops, and other places to eat.

Visit Hythe 

Hythe is Folkestone's quieter sister and well worth a visit on your weekend away. The beach in Hythe is massive and the town has cute shops, independent restaurants and cafes. It's also home to a gorgeous canal area where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll, have a picnic and hire rowing boats in the summer.

Book a show at The Leas Cliff Hall or Quarter House

Folkestone is a hub for art, including theatre shows, music and comedy. The two best venues include The Leas Cliff Hall and the Quarter House, which host seasonal events and shows all year round.

Visit the Folkestone Bookshop

I adore books and love to support independent bookshops where I can, and my favourite is the Folkestone Bookshop. Located on Tontine Street, behind the Creative Quarter, it's a hub for all your book needs with a reading room.

Where to eat

Restaurant recommendations: Marley's, El Cortador, Sotirios Bar & Restaurant, Dr Legumes, The Harbour Inn, Annapurna Nepalese Restaurant, Viet Street, Luben's, Burrito Buoy and The Radnor Arms.

Cafe recommendations: Yoke, Okay Folke, Steep Street, Brew, Orchard Lane, Sailbox, Harbour Coffee and Panataria.

Pubs and bars recommendations: Brewing Brothers, The Beer Shop, Cabron, The Radnor Arms, The Pullman, The Pilot Bar, The Blind Pig and Blackmarket.

I hope you enjoyed this post. When are you planning a trip to Folkestone?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! I know I'm now pushing 30, as I've fallen in love with nature more. I've always been wowed by the beauty of nature, the countryside, our beaches and the incredible natural landforms I've seen whilst travelling, yet as I'm getting older, it's becoming more profound to me.

I want to be present more, with the outdoors, listen to what's around me with no distractions and explore more of the countryside. 

If you're a nature lover or need to get outside more, here are my tips on prioritising and appreciating nature.

Leave the distractions at home on a walk

It's so easy and I do this a lot to use distractions when we're out and about on a walk or exploring any form of nature, whether listening to music or scrolling on our phones. When we do this, we tune out from the natural sounds of the birds, the wind in the trees and the waves of the water. Challenge yourself to leave those distractions at home and go out on a walk, and be present in what's around you. It can help you think clearly, come up with new ideas, reflect and be grateful for your surroundings. 

Get outside at least once a day

As a generation, we spend more time indoors than ever, with many people working online, going to the gym and having indoor hobbies. Some days, many of us don't spend much time outside. I challenge you to get outside at least once a day (the more times, the better). This could be for a walk, having your lunch outside, a run or reading a book. 

Research local countryside walks near you or plan a day trip

You'll be amazed at what's on your doorstep. I'm blessed that we have the countryside near where I live, but also amazing walks within an hour's drive. Research and book in time to do local walks to explore local nature, and see the wildlife, plants and beauty you can find. It can make for a lovely day out and show you what's around you.

Go sea swimming

I love to swim in the sea when it's warm; there's something freeing about it. If you have a beach near you, make the most of swimming in the sea or plan a day trip to nearby seaside towns where you can do that. If you're brave enough, you can swim in winter too!

Walk barefoot more in rural areas

This may sound a little hippy, but I love the feeling of not wearing shoes, especially when I'm at the beach or in the countryside where there's lots of grass. If you're having a picnic in the park or a beach day, take your shoes off and let your toes experience that relaxing feeling.

Have phone-free moments when out and about

It's sad how we're all so addicted to our phones, and I annoy myself constantly that I use it so much. Prioritise times in your day and week when you aren't on your phone when out and about, helping you be more present in your surroundings.

Explore in all weathers

I used to be that person who only wanted to go on a lovely, long walk when the weather was nice and sunny. However, I'm getting better at exploring in all weathers. The key is to be prepared for the weather, as it'll make the adventure more comfortable.

I hope you enjoyed this post! What would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well, hello to you, my reader chums! Brighton is one of my favourite cities in the UK. It has a seaside charm with the rush of a city, and I love embracing that ambience every time I visit. Even if you're a frequent visitor to Brighton, the city never gets old with quirky independent shops, cafes, restaurants and a gorgeous coastline.

You could easily spend several days exploring the wonders of Brighton, however, if you're limited to a day, here is my guide to 24 hours in Brighton and my favourite things to see and do.

Morning - Exploring the Lanes

Brighton is always busy, whatever time of year however, early mornings when everything is opening up is a fab time to head straight to the Lanes. I adore the Lanes and could spend longer than a morning roaming around, visiting independent shops, my favourite chain stores, cafes and bakeries. Whether you're shopping for new clothes, a handmade item, jewellery or something quirky, you can find a shop here. Also, don't forget to get a cute photo of your trip at Photomatic!

Whilst in the Lanes, you can grab some breakfast, brunch or lunch, as the options are truly endless! Some favourite spots include the Nowhere Man, Flour Pot Bakery, Trading Post Coffee Roasters, Cafe Coho, Lost in the Lanes Café, Red Roaster and Kooks. 

The Lanes aren't huge. However, they do consist of many streets with brightly coloured shops and things to see and do. You can also walk around Brighton Pavilion, grab yourself an ice cream from Boho Gelato (it's never too early) and visit one of the local markets if it's market day. The Lanes are also close to the many high street shops where you can continue shopping in the morning.

Afternoon - A seaside wander 

As a seaside city, you should make the most of its glory on your day trip. The seaside is only around a 10-15 minute walk from The Lanes. Before you head here, grab some lunch in The Lanes or pick up a classic fish and chips from the seaside chippies, restaurants or along the Pier. You have plenty of options to buy some delicious food. 

I'd recommend heading to the Pier either to eat or, once you've eaten, have a long stroll up and down it, making the most of the arcades and, if you can stomach them, the various rides they offer too. From the Pier, you can take a beach stroll, either toward Brighton Marina or, my favourite way, toward Hove. Along the Hove route, you'll wander past many seaside shops, ideal for purchasing souvenirs, a hot drink, ice cream or exploring the local artist's work. 

This route also has many activities, such as the upside-down house, outdoor sports, a kid splash pool and of course, the beautiful pebbled coastline. As you approach Hove, you'll see the stunning colourful beach huts and the crowds will quieten slightly.

In Hove, you can head into the town to explore their local shops or return towards Brighton and embrace the sea views again (this walk takes around half an hour). Depending on the time of year, use the rest of your afternoon relaxing on the beach, sunbathing and swimming.

Evening - Enjoy sunset and nightlife 

After a full day of exploring, the evening is what you make of it, especially if you're travelling back that day or staying in a hotel. Watch the sunset, either on the beach or as you roam around the city, finding a restaurant that's right for you.

Option one - Travelling back in the night

You'll probably be tired after an exciting day of seeing Brighton's best sights, enjoying a lot of delicious food and hopefully treating yourself to some cute trinkets. If you're travelling back for the night, grab some dinner and head home. Great dinner options include VIP Pizza and Red Snapper Thai restaurant. Or you can have fish and chips on the beach at sunset!

Option two - Staying in Brighton 

If you're staying, I'd recommend travelling a little further out away from the city in the luxurious White Horses Rottingdean Hotel and having dinner here. On my last time in Brighton, I stayed here with my sister it was such a luxury experience and the food was delicious. Or for a slightly cheaper and central hotel, the Charm Boutique Hotel is close by to all the attractions.

I hope you enjoyed this post. When are you visiting Brighton?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well hello to you my reader chums This year, it's all about protecting our energy, putting ourselves first and what feels right for our minds. I've spent many years of my twenties people pleasuring, putting people's needs before my own and going along with things to suit other people, not myself.

I'm not saying I'm overdoing any of those things as this is a work in process, yet I am focusing on protecting my energy and leaning into what feels right for me. Do you want to do the same? Here are a few ways how to protect your energy and prioritise yourself. 

Saying no when something doesn't feel right to you

It's tough to say no. Saying no is putting your foot down and the people pleaser in us can sometimes be terrified to do so. However, not everything in life has to be a yes. Just because you said no to a certain event, doesn't make you boring or rude. We don't have to go and do something if it makes us uncomfortable. By saying no more often when you know you won't thrive or feel content in a situation, you'll get better at knowing which events are for you and which aren't.

Surrounding yourself with people who reciprocate your energy

I'm slowly getting better at this as it can be so hard to step away from long-term friendships and prioritise yourself, especially if you're the one putting in all the effort. However, by realising which people reciprocate similar energy, you will find each interaction more fulfilling and meaningful and will stop second guessing if you're good enough and if someone wants to be around you. Nobody is ever too busy, it's all about prioritising. Figure out who is prioritising you or caring enough to give you their energy. 

Booking in days/evenings for yourself and hobbies

Protecting your energy isn't only about how you are around others and relationships, it's also about the relationship you have with yourself and how you care for that. With that in mind, book yourself days and evenings when it's all about you. This could be to do a hobby, have a self-care evening or watch your favourite TV show. Dedicating time and making that intention will help you have more love and respect for yourself and your time.

Setting boundaries when people make you feel small

I hate when others make people feel small or not good enough. If this is happening to you, you don't deserve it. We should spend time with people who big us up and care for our emotions and livelihoods, not those who make fun and squash our dreams. If you have those people in your life, learn how to set boundaries or limit time with them. For instance, if you still want a relationship with them, limit how often you see them or communicate. 

Making plans you're excited about 

Again, protecting your energy isn't about everything you're stopping and taking out of your life, it's also what you replace and add into your life. Make plans you're excited about which make your heart soar. This could be morning walks on the beach, a big holiday, hanging out with your best friend or taking up a new hobby. By having regular plans that make you smile, you'll add more positive energy to each day and overall protect your energy away from negativity. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. How are you protecting your energy?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I don't know about you, but it's easy to spend all of my spare time on screens, whether my phone or the TV, especially in winter, to switch on and watch a film, rather than think of a new activity to keep you occupied, be more creative and present.

I'm a creative person and I've always been someone who loves to write, read, bake and sometimes do a little arts and crafts, but never fully committed. Since my partner and I got together, he has opened my eyes to embrace the joy and calmness in art (even if it's not perfect) and we regularly have creative evenings, away from screens.

If you're tired of watching Netflix or looking for fun ideas to make cold, winter evenings exciting, here are some creative activities to keep you busy. 

Scrapbooking your old memories 

I adore a scrapbook. There's nothing more magical than flicking through and reminiscing on old memories and where I've travelled. Everyone scrapbooks and collects memories differently. I love to print out photos and store them in albums and collect items, such as plane tickets, postcards and trinkets and add them into a scrapbook. I've created scrapbooks since I began collecting items in my teens and they're lovely to sift through and remember memories I've forgotten I've had and get excited all over again.

Painting a picture of each other (can do the same with friends)

The joy of painting is to see how everyone interprets different objects and puts their own stamp on them. My partner and I did this a couple of months ago. You can do it as a date night or evening with your friends to paint an image of each other. It'll certainly make for a lot of laughs as paintings can go one of two ways!

Paint a picture of your favourite landscape

Landscapes are golden and lovely to snap in a camera, so why not paint one? Whether you're a mountain or beach person, there must be a landscape you adore. Buy yourself a canvas or use some paper and paint an image of your favourite landscape. I've done this a few times, with my favourite beaches or destinations I've visited. 

Paint by numbers

If you're too anxious thinking about what you should paint or don't know where to begin with painting, paint-by-number sets are a great guide as the thinking is taken away. You only need to concentrate on using the right colours for the right numbers and achieve a pretty photo at the end.

Embroidery starter kits

I find sewing therapeutic and I'd love to improve my skills. If you're a newbie to sewing, many craft shops will sell embroidery kits with a guide on how to sew. Even though it can be tricky, it's great to do something with your hands as it'll sway you away from scrolling on your phone.

Mend any clothing items.

With the sewing theme, we all have clothes that have holes in or we've been meaning to fix at some point - this is your chance! Buy yourself a set of sewing needles and neutral thread and get fixing. If you're struggling, you can always research how to patch up holes.

Design/draw cards for the next occasions

There's always an occasion coming up, whether it's a birthday, Christmas, anniversary or a new baby. Whatever the occasion, sending a card is the norm. To make the event more fun, create your own cards. All you will need are cards, pencils or paints and create a design you love and the person receiving it will too.

Have a bake-off evening with your friends.

I love to bake, it's my favourite activity! Baking in general is a fab way to get creative, whether it's trying a new recipe or decorating a cake. To make it more fun, why not have a bake-off evening with your friends or bake some cakes and decorate them together.

Vision board making

Vision board planning is incredibly fun and an exciting way to map out your future, whether it's your dream wedding, holiday or house. You can do this with big pieces of paper and old magazines, to cut and stick as you please.

Painting candles/plates/mugs

Keep your home design brain on and enjoy painting anything, whether it's candles, mugs, plates or bowls. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What's your favourite creative activity?

Thank you for reading <3

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I love to be busy; I always have a planned weekend, holiday on the horizon or enough things to do that I struggle to relax. However, as I've gotten into my late twenties, I've started to appreciate the quieter way of life, slow weekends and learning to relax and it has benefitted my mental health.                   

If you're struggling to relax, here's my guide on learning to slow down and how it has done wonders for me and my mental health. 

 Life doesn't always have to be busy to be fun

This took me a long time to learn, however, life isn't always about being constantly busy, it's about enjoying the fun in all the smaller moments. I always thought I needed to have plans every weekend, ensuring I was doing something big and exciting, such as going to a concert, dinner out or on holiday. Yet, by slowing down and embracing quieter activities, I've realised that fun can be found in whatever you're doing and each activity. 

The little things bring so much joy

Life isn't about the big things, it's about the little moments, from watching the sunset on the beach, reading a book in the sunshine, baking a cake, shopping at the farmer's market to mooching around in your local town. The little things are everything and can make each moment special, especially with people you love. I spend quality time with those who are important to me, it doesn't matter what we're doing as long as we're together. 

Appreciating what slowing down is

I thought slowing down meant doing everything at a slower pace but it can mean whatever you want it to be. For me, slowing down is having evenings with no plans, not overbooking my calendar and embracing life and the little things that fill it. It's about appreciating the joy of a slower way of life and enjoying what life throws at me. I love seeing where the day can take me with no plans whatsoever.

Relaxing helps regulate my nervous system

Being constantly on the go isn't good for anyone, especially me. I always thought staying on the go would help keep my mind distracted from anxiety and depression, however, it can make me stressed and burnt out, dysregulating my nervous system. By relaxing and taking things at a slower pace, leaving space for spontaneity can help regulate my nervous system and calm my mind. 

Resting is productive 

My whole life, I've struggled to relax or didn't know how to relax and enjoy it, always feeling as if I needed to work or be productive. Though, when slowing down, I've realised, resting is productive. With rest, comes energy, a clear mind and more fulfilment every day. Taking things slow and enjoying little things can help you appreciate the bigger things even more.

Connection to people and nature is everything

Life is about what you connect with, especially your loved ones and nature around you. The world is beautiful and when you take the time to relax and slow down, you can appreciate the beauty of nature, from going on a beach walk or a picnic in the countryside. Being connected to people you adore and the nature of the world can make life a million times better and relieve your mind. 

Creativity grows in relaxation 

With relaxation and learning to slow down, my brain can thrive as I start to feel more creative, noticing what's going on in the world around me, instead of constantly being on the go.  I love how my brain finds inspiration in the quiet moments and how it can help benefit my mental health.

Learning to care less what people think

Caring less about what people think is a must we should all learn. We only get one life and we should do with it as we will. The world of social media constantly makes us compare and think we're not good enough or we should be doing more, and that's not the case. Learning to slow down can also help you learn to care less what people think and follow your heart, and mind, preventing yourself from comparing to others. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What else would you add?

 Thank you for reading <3

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I love a European city break any time of year, especially in the autumn. There's something about a cooler breeze in the air, autumn sunshine and a quieter atmosphere that makes many European cities even more charming. I always recommend visiting European cities during shoulder seasons, especially in autumn as it's my favourite time of year.

If you're planning a European city break, here are the best European cities to visit in the autumn.

Autumn is my favourite time to visit Italian cities and Bologna will always remain one of my top European cities. Located in northern Italy, Bologna is a city of incredible food, such as ragu, tortellini, cured meats, fresh pasta and endless gelato. Surrounded by mountains, the city has plenty to see, such as the Torre Degli Asinelli, Piazza Maggiore and Cathedral di San Pietro. It's such a charming place with quaint walkways, food markets and a rustic look, plus for a popular city, it's not too touristy. The weather in autumn is mild with a mountainous breeze in the air.

Porto, Portugal 

 For that dose of autumnal sunshine, Portugal should be at the top of your list. Porto has a charm about it like no other and it's a city of gorgeous sights, good food, endless things to do and the perfect location for day trips. I loved everything about Porto, from Clerigos Tower, Porto Cathedral, and bookshops to local markets and authentic Portuguese cuisine. From Porto, you can easily travel to the Douro Valley and experience port tasting and beautiful scenery. The best thing is, that you can still rock your summer dresses and hats.

Florence, Italy

Florence is in the heart of Tuscany and a region that deserves its level of admiration. As a focal point in the region, Florence boasts everything for lovers of art, history and architecture, with a delicious food scene too. Florence features the famous Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Strozzi Palace. As a characteristic city, you can explore many stunning piazzas, visit Pitti Palace or take a train to nearby towns and cities, such as Lucca and Pisa. 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands      

Everyone loves Amsterdam and for good reason. A city famous for its quaint canals, there's more to the city than first meets the eye, including gorgeous museums, significant history and cute brunch spots. With pretty parks and endless opportunities to cycle around, you'll have plenty of things to do for a weekend in Amsterdam. 

  Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a city I absolutely adore as there's something about its charm and character that makes it so special - and one of those cities you can enjoy, whatever the weather. This city has many incredible sights, such as The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat and many cobbled streets to wander and explore. The food scene is everything as you can enjoy whatever you desire, including Makars Mash Bar.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

I'm in love with Croatia and really want to explore more of the country, including its beach scene. Dubrovnik should still be warm around autumn which means you can soak up the coastline without endless crowds and people, and make the most of the historic centre. Visit the city walls, explore the old town and eat your way around the city.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a perfect destination to explore all year round, especially autumn with a rich history, colourful architecture and great nightlife. As a must-visit destination to see the harrowing Auschwitz, explore the salt mines and the old town and eat as many dumplings as possible, prepare for an insightful experience.

I hope you enjoyed this post. Where are you planning to visit?

Thank you for reading <3