Style

Wearing C. by Christing C., Stuart Weitzman boots

Last week we slowed down and took a little break in Taipei.  I’m not sure what it is about this quirky and sweet city that always keeps smiles on all three of our faces.  We usually stay at my Grandmother’s lively home where I spent much of my childhood and not much has changed. I’m still giggling and catching up with all my favourite cousins, the only difference is we’ve added other halves and children to the mix.  Ever’s eyes lit up at all the playmates and toys on offer and was ecstatic for the opportunity to spend some time with cats instead of our sometimes grumpy dog.  I’m pretty sure we base our entire day around eating, or shall I say feasting, when in Taiwan and I’m so in love with the distinct and quaint eateries and street stalls. Unlike HK, you can clearly see how each spot is privately owned, without pretensions, and oozing with familial hospitality.  Ever is truly an Asian foodie always gobbling up rice and noodle dishes, and she crying out for the fragrant smells emanating from the corner onion pancake stall.  The fresh air, open spaces, and general friendliness will definitely have us going back for more. Hopefully on a more regular basis.

Xx

Taipei always holds a special place in my heart.  The bustling, unique city with the friendliest of personalities and abundance of culture holds many of my closest family and slices of childhood memories. Being born and raised in the USA, married to a Brit, and hopping from city to city across the world makes it easy to forget your humble beginnings.  As a child all I wanted was to be just American, and as normal or acceptable as possible.  Blending in seemed to be the only way I could survive.  Now I’m so proud of my Taiwanese heritage, and the multicultural family in which I belong.  I have too many cousins, aunts, uncles, and family members to count, and we’ve all made homes in far flung countries, but when we come together it’s as if we’ve never spent a day apart.  I’m so proud to teach my daughter the importance of being bilingual and speaking her grandparent’s mother tongue.  To traipse around all the local night markets with my husband, whose British/French good looks stick out like a sore thumb, but doesn’t flinch at the thought of consuming every single local delicacy.  I love the little quiet corners Taipei has to offer, whether it’s perched in a beautiful hotel suite, tucked away in the cutest of cafes, or just relaxing on a park bench. The air, the noise, and  distinctive scent always feels familiar in it’s own unique way.  I couldn’t recommend it more as a must stop city and the friendly, amazingly helpful people will always make you feel welcome.

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Where to Stay:

Regent Taipei: Decadent surrounding, luxury shopping, plenty of mouthwatering sophisticated restaurants, beautiful rooms with spectacular views, and helpful inviting service throughout.

Muzik Hotel:  Located in the busy and exciting Ximending area.  Great if you are looking for local food, fun affordable market stalls, and a true bustling Taipei atmosphere.  Affordable rates, modern and comfortable rooms and very helpful staff.

Trips to London are always happily nostalgic for the boy and I. Since moving all the way across the world, we love returning to our favourite little pockets of our former home and settling into quiet afternoons of food, wine, and conversation. Plus, with London, there’s so much to do here, that even if you live here, you can’t say that you’re bored. From visiting attractions such as the London eye, Madam Tussaud’s and the Shard, to Buckingham palace and the British Library, there’s just so much to see! No matter where you choose to go in London, you’re definitely going to find something for you.

We are always pleasantly shocked by how much the city evolves and changes each year, with new art, boutiques, bars, and foodie hotspots popping up every second. On our last trip, we took the opportunity to go back to one of our favourite spots and see the new and well-loved spots Regent Street has to offer. Below is a little guide of what I recommend on your next visit.

Where to stay: Le Meridien Piccadilly

Only a few hundred yards from Picadilly Circus tube stop and all the excitement of Regent Street lies the grandeur and comfort of Le Meridien Piccadilly. We loved the convenient location, exceptional service, spacious rooms, and delicious breakfasts. The perfect spot if you want a home at the centre of the city during your stay in London.

Where to Eat:

Aqua Kyoto: Modern interiors, a stunning terrace, mouthwatering Japanese fare and the best champagne Sunday brunch that cannot be missed.

Hawksmoor: A must visit for steak lovers with amazingly juicy cuts of meat, cool cocktails, classic desserts, and fun atmosphere. The traditional roast is ideal for family lunches.

Ristorante Frescobaldi: Indulgent Italian fare and fine wine to match. Perfect for date nights or boozy lunches with friends. Their enticing creamy burrata and freshly prepared pacherri with rabbit ragu were way too delicious to resist.

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill: As seafood lovers we were very excited to visit this classic spot. The fresh and decadent seafood platters paired with champagne made for an amazing celebratory meal and we loved the buttery dover sole.

Sketch: Afternoon tea is a must when in London and we loved the modern take on this enjoyable tradition available at Sketch. Think insanely cool, modern art interiors, impeccable service, and the most mouthwatering scones. We recommend pairing with a glass of champagne and sampling their fragrant rose tea.

Heddon Street Kitchen: The lively, after work atmosphere on Heddon Street makes for the perfect spot for an evening drink and meal. We loved the option of outdoor seating, their menu of traditional British fare with a modern twist, and the welcoming and relaxed venue. A great spot to start a night out with friends.

Where to Drink:

Ice Bar: Vodka cocktails served in a freezing room constructed completely of ice is definitely a fun novelty. We loved feeling giddy while perched on gigantic blocks of ice and sipping out of ice cube constructed glasses. A definite place for a mandatory photo opportunity and Instagram post.

Bar Americain: Classic cocktails in speakeasy, art deco surroundings and an impressive cocktail menu to match. We loved the intimate setting and cozy booths making it a definite go to spot for after dinner cocktails. The intricate Whiskey Sour and absinthe infused Sazerac Suze will definitely impress.

Where to Pamper:

The Organic Pharmacy: Since becoming a mummy, I’m far more aware of what goes into my body and on my skin. I love the natural and effective products used at The Organic Pharmacy and the plethora of services offered in their in house spa. Go for a relaxing manicure or just to pick up a few indulgent products.

Akasha at Hotel Cafe Royal: If you are looking for a relaxing massage try the personalized massages at Akasha. Their quiet sanctuary takes you away from London’s busy streets and creates a haven where you can relax and unwind. The facilities are luxurious and the therapists are attentive to your specific needs. My tired, jet lagged body was eternally grateful after an hour on the massage table.

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