Croatian charm in Old Town Dubrovnik: your next European city break

Hello lovely people,

As summer comes to an end, and as autumn’s go-go-go mentality creeps in, I find my mind slipping away to the sunshine and excitement from my summer trips.

The other week I went to Dubrovnik for my cousin’s wedding – and wow, I was absolutely blown away. I had been to Zadar, Croatia before, so I assumed Old Town Dubrovnik would be a bigger version of the quiet seaside town.

Boy, was I wrong.

Dubrovnik is like no other. From its bustling cobblestone streets to picturesque beaches, this city is one of a kind.

Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna

After walking through impressive city walls, you’re greeted with a stunning view of a marina as you stroll through stone-studded streets. Palm trees and sunshine… yes, please!

Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna

Some may recognize Dubrovnik as a Game of Thrones filming location, which is cool of course, but the city is so much more than that! Dubrovnik is first and foremost a dazzling, historical European city, being a filming location comes after (wayyyy after) all of its cultural and beautiful offerings.

Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna

From quaint cafes to little independent shops, Old Town offers a variety of businesses and restaurants. One of my personal favourites was Pupo, where I found my desperately needed oyster fix.

Oyster goodness | Photo by McKenna

If you’re a pizza, pasta or seafood fiend, you’re in luck. Dubrovnik boasts an abundance of mouthwatering goodness on every corner. Don’t forget an ice cream cone (pistachio for me!) to top it off!

Photo by McKenna

After you’ve scoped out the city’s cobblestone alleyways and city walls, venture to Banje Beach for an afternoon of sun and sea. The beach is just a five-minute walk from the eastern wall of Old Town, equipped with a beach bar and sun loungers to rent for 100 kuna (£12).

The pebbled beach leads you to the refreshing Adriatic Sea. When we were there in late August, temperatures were HOT, making the cool sea water more than welcome.

Banje Beach | Photo by McKenna
Banje Beach | Photo by McKenna

Beach by day, cocktails and music by night. On my first evening in Dubrovnik there was a mini music festival in the main square of Old Town. It was absolutely surreal to dance to house music under flashing lights in such a historic, seaside setting!

In addition to the impromptu rave, we perused everything from little hole-in-the-wall bars to the city’s massive Club Revelin  – there really is something for everyone!

the logistics… 

To and fro 

Dubrovnik Airport is only 20 minutes away by car. An Uber is about 250 kuna (£30), but you can also take a shuttle to Old Town at the bargain price of 40 kuna (£5).

Sleeping beauties

My family rented an Airbnb just outside the city walls because we had quite a large group. However, you can find deals within the city walls, right in the middle of all the action, for £60 a night (for a couple). If you book far in advance, I’m sure you’d be able to find deals at hotels as well.

Money, money, money! 

Many places took both euros and kuna, Croatia’s official currency, but you should 100% use kuna within the Old Town. Not all places take euros, so better safe than sorry!

A view of Old Town | Photo by McKenna

I’ve posted more photos from my Dubrovnik adventure on my Instagram, so feel free to check them out if this amazing city has made it onto your travel bucket list!

What a sunset | Photo by McKenna

After all, Dubrovnik is calling your name! And you need this beautiful sunset in your life!

McK x

Advertisement

Cue the food coma at Camden Market

Every now and then, you just CRAVE a certain snack – come on, I know YOU know what I’m talking about.

Sometimes you just won’t stop until you find that cheesy burrito or perfectly curated bento box you’ve been dreaming of.

Well, for all of those foodies who can relate to your girl – cue your one-stop shop for all things delicious and wonderful in London: Camden Market.

Photo by McKenna

Situated along a bustling canal, you’ll find an endless supply of street food vendors – selling everything from savoury snacks to sweet treats. Bring on steamed buns, quesadillas and donuts 🙂

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Situated just a short five-minute walk from Camden Town station on the Northern line, the market is a perfect lunch spot for anyone visiting central London.

Foodies, prepare to indulge!

McK xx

London foodie finds: Sushi in the neighbourhood

Happy Sunday!

Hope you’ve had a nice weekend and that you’re gearing up for a fab week. Remember, a Sunday well spent brings a week of content!

In my case, I decided to try a sushi place in my neighbourhood — Feng Sushi, which I later found out is a chain in London. I usually go for little independently owned family sushi restaurants (especially being from the states where sushi bars tend to be on every corner in major cities), but I was pleasantly surprised with Feng. I mean look at that sushi spread 🙂

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.45.40

From prawn tempura to spicy salmon rolls, we were in for a delicious treat. If that doesn’t end the weekend on the high note I don’t know what does 🙂

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.45.55

In my eyes the crazier roll the better, whether that includes fruit, pine nuts or crazy fish combinations. Are you a sashimi, nigiri or maki roll fan?

xxx

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM

Cascais, Portugal: The land of palm trees and custard tarts

Happy Friday!

Hope you are as excited for the weekend as I am! I’m heading to the cinema this evening and then to a brewery tomorrow afternoon. Bring on delicious craft beers 🙂

Even though I’m seriously looking forward to the weekend, I’ve still been reminiscing about my recent trip to Portugal — aka my favourite citybreak so far! I’ve covered the fabulous cities Lisbon and Sintra so far on the blog, but now it’s time to focus on this little gem — the sea-side Portuguese town of Cascais. Only 30 minutes away from car or metro, this is the perfect day trip from Lisbon.

What is there to say about this darling little palm-tree lined town? For starters you have quaint streets filled with shops, cafes and bars. Every shop window seems to have something that literally triggers stars and hearts in your eyes — whether that’s a cute little leather crossbody bag or a healthy scoop of gelato.

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.08.28

Clearly, I could not resist from indulging in the traditional Portuguese custard tarts. These are absolutely to die for! If you go to Portugal and do not try one (or two or three!) of these perfects little treats you might as well not have even gone! I’m serious, they’re just that delicious! Why not pair it with a little cappuccino for a caffeine boost 🙂

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.08.43

Although the streets that weave in and out of Cascais are absolutely adorable, the real gem is where the sand meets the sea. We enjoyed fab views of a turquoise marina and a quiet little beach… the perfect place to perch up and get lost in your favourite book or have a picnic (if it’s not too windy!).

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.09.02

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.38.21

Although Lisbon seems to be the star attraction in this part of Portugal, Cascais is the perfect little day trip to break up your sightseeing in the capital. I mean, just look at that view 🙂

xxx

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM

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

 

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM