Queen of Warwick Castle

One thing that lured me into moving to the UK was the absolutely insane amount of history at every corner.

The other week my boyfriend and I were driving back to London from my cousin’s wedding in Birmingham when we saw a sign for Warwick Castle. My “Should we stop?!” was met with his “Fancy a trip to Warwick?” – and we were off! And boy, I’m so glad we opted for the spontaneous day trip to this gorgeous gem.

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Warwick Castle is a medieval castle that was built in 1068! It was originally constructed by William the Conqueror – and he went BIG. This castle is absolutely massive. So massive it took about three hours to go through all of it! You’ll find beautiful, elegant bedrooms, gold-lined ballrooms, exquisite galleries, dining halls — even an enormous walk-in wardrobe for the ladies. I could do with that! But, you’ll also find eery dungeons, metal shops and walls of armour in its basement. The history is literally peeling off the walls. 
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The castle grounds are stunning as well. Not only will you find beautiful gardens and grounds, but you will get a front row seat to experience jousting, bow and arrow target practice, live musical entertainment and wildlife.

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The castle is located in the historic town of Warwick, which boasts an array of adorable tea shops, charity shops, pubs and a market. After we were finished perusing the castle, we headed to the pub for a cheeky pint.

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A day like this is exactly what makes England so unique. Which castle or palace should I go to next?!

McK xxx

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North Carolina’s cotton candy skies #TravelThrowback

Hi beauties!

I don’t know about you, but now that the chilly September weather is starting to creep in (don’t get me wrong, I love autumn… PUMPKIN EVERYTHING, PLEASE!), I can’t help but reminisce the stunning cotton candy skies of the Outerbanks of North Carolina from this summer.

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A few weeks ago I was able to take a break from the London life and surprise my family at our reunion on the beach. Not only was there incredible company, lots of laughs and sizzling weather, but the sights were something out of this world.

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These are the views you will remember for a lifetime, which is why I am claiming today #TravelThrowback… I just want to live in the past for a least a little bit. Is that so bad?!

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Hope you all have a gorgeous Tuesday!

McK xx

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.

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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 🙂

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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!).

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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

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Sintra, Portugal: Colourful castles and sun-kissed sea

Good morning loves! Hope your morning is off to a fab start!

It’s sad the Easter weekend has come and gone, but at least spring days are on their way! Definitely something to look forward for 🙂

As you may have read in my last post, I recently went to Portugal and literally FELL. IN. LOVE. I spent most of the trip in Lisbon, but also ventured out to Sintra to see the stunning Pena Palace. Just look at those colours! It’s a short drive from Lisbon – about 30 minutes or so. A day trip well worth it!

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The palace is just outside the city centre of Sintra, where you’ll find an abundance of quaint shops, cute cafes and cobblestoned streets. It’s the absolute dream 🙂

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And strolling through the town isn’t even the cherry on top. On the way back from Sintra, you will enjoy GORGEOUS views of the water — I mean it looks like an air-brushed painting! I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

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Sintra is an added bonus to travelling to Lisbon. It’s like winning the golden ticket, meeting your celebrity crush AND finding the most perfect pair of pumps all in one day!

I think it’s time for you to pack your suitcase and head to Portugal! You won’t be sorry 🙂

xxx

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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 🙂

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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?

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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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