Lovely Lisboa! Why you need to go right now

Hello, lovelies!

Hope you’re having a fab Saturday! Today I’m dodging this dreadful Easter weekend storm in London and staying put on my sofa. Sometimes you just need a little Netflix in your life, am I right?

I’ve finally had a chance to post gorgeous pictures of a recent trip I took. If you’re wondering where to go for your next city break… I have the answer right here: LISBON, PORTUGAL.

Not only is this city absolutely beautiful, with its rustic charm and unique mosaic tiled buildings, it has everything you need in a weekend getaway: gorgeous sunshine, restaurants to die for, beautiful architecture and the most friendly culture I have ever encountered while traveling. Even our AirBnb host left a delicious bottle of traditional Portuguese green wine in the fridge, awaiting our arrival 🙂

lisbon art

Our days were filled with sightseeing, strolling down the city’s cobblestone streets (clearly obsessed!) and experiencing gorgeous castles and palaces. And, of course, indulging in traditional Portuguese food including custard tarts, seafood rice and codfish cakes.

One HUGE advantage of Lisbon is its affordable nature — you can find a delicious glass of Sangria for only 1.50 Euros (literally I could not believe it, especially coming from London). A daily travel card, which includes metro, bus, tram and water taxi, is only 6 euros. This place is a steal 🙂 not to mention our adorable AirBnb was authentic and in a prime location (in the Alfama waterfront neighbourhood) for an incredible price. Have I convinced you yet?

lisbon view

lisbon waterfront

lisbon square

And not only were we able to explore Lisbon, we were also able to experience palaces, castles and quaint cafes in the neighbouring cities of Sintra and Cascais. Just think colourful castles, waterfront restaurants and adorable family owned shops. Posts to come on those, of course 🙂

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time for you to experience Lisbon yourself!

xxx

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Winter bliss

Once the sparkle of the New Year comes to a halt, many of us tend to dwell on the cold, dark, rainy weather January seems to welcome. But… it’s time to embrace all of the good things winter has to offer!

Knitted scarves, chai lattes, oversized trench coats, booties, faux fur, cosy corners and comfort food … the list goes on!

Browse through a few of my January joys from this afternoon whilst strolling through Westminster 🙂 Are you embracing winter bliss?

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Xxxx

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Tis the festive season! Christmas markets are calling my name

Christmas joy is in the air! I made my way to Germany for the first time and discovered my new favourite tradition … browsing through quaint, festive German Christmas markets! From delicious bratwursts to warming gluhwein and handcrafted tree ornaments, Dusseldorf offered cute little stands to suit any and all tastes!

Dusseldorf Christmas markets | Photo by McKenna
Dusseldorf Christmas markets | Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

And when you need a quick break from shopping … we eat cake!

Nomz | Photo by McKenna
Nomz | Photo by McKenna

Then we get back to eating and shopping!

Pretzels for days | Photo by McKenna
Pretzels for days | Photo by McKenna
Altbier, three regional sausages and sauerkraut | Photo by McKenna
Altbier, three regional sausages and sauerkraut | Photo by McKenna
Handcrafted wooden Nutcrackers | Photo by McKenna
Handcrafted wooden Nutcrackers | Photo by McKenna

Now let’s talk about the beer… in Germany an empty glass simply does not exist. The second you come to the last sip of your drink, a refill hits the horizon before you can even blink an eye. It is just FANTASTIC.

Keep them coming
Keep them coming

It’s safe to say I’m in a Merry Christmas mindset now! Just call me Mrs. Claus!

Home sweet home xx
Home sweet home

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Sunday vibes in the new neighbourhood

Happy Sunday lovelies!

The last few weeks were ultimately consumed with surfing SpareRoom.co.uk and FlatShare.co.uk in an effort to find the perfect new flat. Well after searching endlessly, I have found my new humble abode in the bustling yet relaxing neighborhood of West Hampstead in North London. So why not get familiar with your new high street with a little brunchy?

We made our way to the Alice House, a vintage chic casual dining spot with a table in the sunshine calling our names!

Alice House | Photo by McKenna
Alice House | Photo by McKenna

Our table of three opted for delicious mimosas, bloody marys and refreshing grapefruit-infused still water. My meal of choice consisted of wheat pancakes, weaving in smoked salmon, goat’s cheese and arugula. Heaven on a plate!

Alice House | Photo by McKenna
Alice House | Photo by McKenna
Alice House's Bloody Mary | Photo by McKenna
Alice House’s Bloody Mary | Photo by McKenna

Aside from delicious breakfast spots just a short walk away, this quaint neighbourhood is the ideal location for my second flat since moving to London. Less than a 10-minute journey on the Jubilee line and I’m in Central London, which brings lots of exploring and touristy bits to cross off the list! Here’s a snapshot of my recent adventures!

Beautiful day in Hyde Park | Photo by McKenna
Beautiful day in Hyde Park | Photo by McKenna
St. Jame's Park | Photo by McKenna
St. Jame’s Park | Photo by McKenna
Saint Albans Cathedral in Hertfordshire
Saint Albans Cathedral in Hertfordshire
Saint Paul's Cathedral | Photo by McKenna
Saint Paul’s Cathedral | Photo by McKenna

Now kick back, relax and have an amazing Sunday Funday!

Sunday well spent brings a week of content

xxx

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The happiest of hours! Summer cocktails

I’ve come to realise only a few things beat London in the sunshine. There’s an energetic buzz in this city that I cannot get enough of!

When warmer days begin to stick around, my friends and I tend to sit back, relax, embrace a sun tan and indulge in summer’s most refreshing cocktails!

Whether you opt for tropical mojitos or a quintessentially British pitcher of Pimms, happy hour in the sun continues to be a fabulous place for friends, family and foodie picks 🙂

Mojitos for days please.
Mojitos for days please | Photo by McKenna
When in London ... drink Pimms!
When in London … drink Pimms! | Photo by McKenna
Drinks with Georgia
The happiest of hours | McKenna

 

I’m by no means a bartender, but I would like to try to make my own cocktails one of these days! Here are a few recipes I have my eye on.

Pomegranate Margs 

Coconut Banana Mojito

Apricot Brunch Punch (LOVE this name!)

St. Germaine and Champagne Cocktail

Pop a straw with an umbrella in and we’re good to go!

xx

 

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