Home Travel
Category

Travel






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.

Regent Street Instagram: @RegentStreetW1 / Twitter @RegentStreetW1

September 2, 2015 2 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

 
  
  
  
  
   Top to Bottom: C. by Christing C. Seashore Dress, C. by Christing C. North Laine Dress, Melissa Bui x Christing C. Dress, C. by Christing C. Flores Dress.  Ever is wearing the C. by Christing C. Peak Road Baby Dress.

Just set foot back on home turf after a scattered and busy two weeks chasing the little one around Europe.  We hopped on a plane with one week notice to partake in wedding festivities and plans of showing Ever off to her English family.  After surviving a jerlag wine fuelled weekend at a picturesque chateau in Bordeaux, we relaxed into a few days at Brighton’s nostalgic seaside for roast lunches and pub dates with le boy’s family.  Our trip ended with a whirlwinds few days of decadent dining and cocktails in London which I’ll share in the next post. For now, hope you guys enjoy the new dresses for C. by Christing C. pictured above and wish us luck in getting over a major dose of jet lag.

Xx

August 8, 2015 2 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

   Peak Road Tunic Flores Dress   Peak Road Ever Set  Flores Dress and Ba&sh BlazerNusa Robe and Elgin Cami Portobello Dress in Tropical Floral      Jimbaran Dress

Curating a wardrobe that breezes in and out of a suitcase like second nature is top of my list of priorites. I spend a lot of time stuffing all of mine and Ever’s neccessities into a single suitcase and need outfits that work from day to night, with flats and heels, require minimal accessories, and still make that statement.  After trawling numerous fabric markets across the world, I’m finally pulling together a small stack of perfect printed dress I can’t help but reach for again and again.  Other goals are pieces that generally don’t need any ironing, and a floaty shape that flatters all shapes.  I’m seriously partial to silk chiffons, floaty florals, and light cotton for all this heat and humidity, and just throw on a leather jacket or blazer if it’s a bit cooler than crazy humid HK.

Also how cute are the new Ever Sets? I am totally becoming one of those moms.. actually not.  We don’t really wear them together, but in my quest to not waste any fabric, I’ve worked with my manufacturer to create baby dresses in very limited numbers out of  any leftover cotton fabrics we have available, so needless to say Ever’ s floral print wardrobe is now thriving as well.  I have more coming soon, but for now you can shop all of the above online!

xx

July 1, 2015 0 comment
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

Yellow Dress by Melissa Odabash, Floral Dress by Christing C., and Ever’s dress bought from local market. Shoes include Birkenstocks and Toms Hong Kong.

Mastering the fine art of fusing authentic, traditional flair with fine luxury can be difficult at beach destinations, but Belmond Jimbaran Puri managed to create this charming and decadent ambiance throughout their inviting resort. I felt immediately at home upon settling in to their serene and luxurious pool villa.  Lazy afternoons were spent dipping into the refreshingly crisp plunge pool, napping against a cool afternoon breeze while the Balinese sun tickled my sun-kissed skin, indulging in fresh, mouthwatering salads and fresh coconuts before preparing for an evening highlighted by an awe-inspiring sunset.  Baby Ever slept soundly in her peaceful surroundings and couldn’t get enough of exploring all the lush greenery, powder soft sand, and comforting hammocks.  The boy and I took evenings off parenting to count the stars from the quiet and romantic beachfront restaurant while feasting on fresh barbecued seafood and sipping local cocktails and wine.  I almost shed a tear upon departing and am sure we will be back soon.

xx

June 25, 2015 4 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

We’ve been leading a nomadic lifestyle, hopping from one hotel to the next, crating around Ever, and living out of two suitcases for almost a month.  Not only is doing your own laundry while traveling a nightmare, but those with babies will understand the amount of clothing little ones go through each day.  With a surmounting laundry bill at each hotel, I was so happy I managed to bring The Laundress’ Delicate Wash along with me on the trip.  The bottle is easy to stuff into even the most bulging suitcases and just a little bit goes a really long way.  I washed all of Ever’s onesies, dresses, blankets, and even my silk and lace items with the wash.  Everything came out amazingly and was refreshingly fragrant and soft.  I was also obsessed with the delicate spray for taking that stale suitcase smell out of my wardrobe each time I unpacked.  Little things that can make your hotel room feel more like home are so necessary when wanderlusting across the world. I know I’ll be stocking up for my next trip.

xx

Available at Sheer Lingerie, 13 Gough Street, Central

June 19, 2015 7 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

 

Shop the looks above at Christing C.

Oceanview balconies boasting a dream worthy view, fruity, potent cocktails while watching the sky light up for yet another stunning sunset, and lounging at arguably the island’s hottest pool while being treated like a rockstar, makes W Retreat & Spa Bali one of the most fun spots to stay.  I’m pretty sure I could get used to cold cucumber slices over my eyes while I sip an ice cold coconut by the pool and date nights feasting on decadent fresh seafood at Starfish Bloo.  My favourite part had to be Woobar’s cozy couches, perfect for snuggling and getting date night off to a romantic start.  Head here if you are looking to show off your hottest bikini paired with those well-earned abs and want to enjoy the trendy side of Bali.

xx

June 19, 2015 0 comment
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

Happily submerged in my happy place, exploring and adventuring on this boho island.  Real talks about building a 2nd home, and the realities of schooling our little one in a green school have actually taken place.  I’ve consumed one of the yummiest tofu burgers known to man (Thanks Santai!), and it’s hard to imagine life without private pools and melt your heart sunsets.  I just have to get extra in touch with the nature girl inside and come to terms with the fact that snakes, spiders, and insect bites are things I may encounter from time to time.  Probably doable. Maybe.  Still over 2 weeks to go so more soon.

I’m wearing mostly new C. By Christing C, and will be adding to the site soon.

Thank you Villa Kubu, Finns Beach ClubThe Entertainer, Courtyard by Marriott Nusa Dua, Lifestyle Retreats, and The Santai for our amazing stay thus far.

xx

May 30, 2015 2 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

  Nusa Robe and PlaysuitVamaStyle bikini    Vamastyle bikini   Nusa Playsuit  Ba&sh top and Eberjey shorts from Sheer Lingerie      Ba&sh Blazer, Crochet top from local market, Uluwatu Shorts from Christing C. Melissa Odabash Top

 Sometimes you want an all star luxury, modern resort and other times you want to escape into your own little heaven.   Villa Sungai was the last stop during our Bali travels and it was the perfect haven for a three week escape.  Imagine a jungle surrounded infinity pool, decadent outdoor bathtubs strewn with fragrant rose petals, dining in decadent, authentic surroundings with an immensely helpful staff available 24/7, and the most serene and relaxing slumber with only nature sounds to keep you company.  After years of city life and the craziness of HK, I couldn’t ask for more.  The boy and I even went without internet access for over 48 hours and truly just enjoyed the company of each other and our little one.  My ideal family holiday.

May 19, 2015 11 comments
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

Back in beautiful Bali and another visit to Double-Six.  Everything was just as we remembered, right down to the stunning sunsets, cool beach bars, and mouth-watering dining options. I have to admit the absolute highlight was checking out their new restaurant, Plantation Grill.  I was blown away as soon as I set foot in the gigantic, NYC worthy dining establishment.  It’s rare to see a beach resort go so all out with design and decor, and I was obsessed with their vintage style powder room, hidden speakeasy bar, and thunderstorm watching from the gigantic, window facing booths.  The food was sensationally decadent as well, with lobster rolls and salmon roe at the top of my list.

This trip we had Ever in tow, so did far less partying and far more lounging.  Their pool access rooms are a true luxury, especially if you have a child who makes you go back to the room to fetch random items every five seconds.  Double-Six were very family friendly with baby cots and supplies at the ready, and some of the best babysitting service we experienced during our trip (Ever is picky).  We dedicated an evening to a return to Chez Gado Gado, this time for a romantic night for two.  6pm dinner reservations seem a little retirement friendly, but it’s worth getting there early as the outdoor seating is prime date night, romantic sunset real estate.  I’m not sure how it’s possible to have daily blue skies, but Bali seems to excel when it comes to this factor.  I’m sure we’ll be back again.. so until next time.

Book your trip to Bali through Flight Centre HK.  They can assist you with round trip flights and arranging your stay at Double-Six.

April 25, 2015 1 comment
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest

  Eberjey cover-up from Sheer Lingerie, bag from The9thMuse, and lace shorts and tank from Christing C.  Melissa Odabash coverup and kids swimsuit       Dress by Christing C.     Dress by Christing C., Herschel Supply Backpack from Woaw Store    Herschel Supply Backpack from Woaw Store

On our second visit to Bali, the boy and I decided it was impossible to leave Ever behind, so wanted to find a few family friendly spots to spend our holiday.  Conrad Bali, located on the serene and beautiful Nusa Dua beach, felt like just the place.  We spent our days bathing in the refreshing pool, napping in their beach adjacent cabana, exploring the expansive grounds, and generally getting out of the city mindset.  Ever is an extreme water baby so our pool access room was an absolute bonus during our short stay.  The location boasts painted sky sunrises and I found myself pulling open our curtains at 6am each morning to enjoy the view from bed with my family.  Certain moments are unforgettable and a little unrealistic to capture.  As the years pass I’m veering away from those cocktail fuelled wild trips in exchange for these quiet memories with my family.  The steady beat of our hearts wedged into a single bed as we soak in the delights of our indulgent surroundings is all I wish for on a relaxing trip.

Book your trip to Bali through Flight Centre HK. They can assist you in booking your round trip flights and stay at Conrad Bali.

April 21, 2015 0 comment
0 Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest