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Sardinia

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Sardinia is an Italian Island located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is home to the most stunning coastlines, beaches, mountains, archipelagos, pink sand and grottos. Sardinia is a popular holiday destination amongst many europeans especially the Italians. This Island is brimming with historical culture, delicious cuisine, colourful churches, beautiful beaches and is definitely a place you must visit if you are planning a summer vacation.

This was my first time visiting Sardinia, and I fell in love with this magical Island. I got to explore the town of Olbia and its surrounding area as well as other famous spots. There is one thing I loved most about Sardinia (a part from the beaches), the food! The cuisine is of course Italian but the style varies and it is absolutely delectable! The most delicious pasta, pizza and gelato you will ever have!

Below are some recommendations a guide to make sure you don’t miss out on the hot spots in Sardnia.

Beaches: Spiaggia Di Chia, Spiaggia Di Is Arutas, Spiaggia Di Cala Luna, Spiaggia Mari Pintau.

Food Specialities: Mirto, Local nougat, Pane Carasau (traditntal flat bread), Pecorino, Pasta and Sardinian Red Wine.

Visit: Porto Cervo, Alghero, Olbia, Costa Smeralda, The caves of Neptune, Madalena Archipelago and the Salt Flats where pink flamingos reside (South of the Island).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BARCELONA

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Barcelona is one of my favourite places in Spain. I love the this vibrant and colourful city, it is rich in culture, arts, delicious food and history. There are many famous architectural landmarks and attractions to visit, as well as some hip and happening neighbourhoods.

This was my third time visiting Barcelona, and this time I wanted to explore like a local.

When in Barcelona, you have to check out the rooftop bars and rooftop pools. Not only do you get spectacular views of the city, you also get to see Barcelona from a different perspective. After all the city does have stunning architecture and this is a great way to admire the details – and have some great cocktails too! There are two great rooftops I visited this time and can recommend: The Ohla Hotel – has the coolest see-through swimming pool and a vibrant bar. The Yurbban Passage and Yurbban Trafalgar (located on the same street) both have gorgeous views of the city with an outdoor rooftop pool – offering a very cosmopolitan vibe.

El Born and the Gothic Quarter are two areas that are part of the Old Town and a must-visit. You will find some of the most amazing restaurants and traditional tapas venues in El Born. If you have a sweet tooth like me, then walk around the Gothic Quarter and you will find an abundance of delectable chocolate and Churros stores/cafes.

I love walking through the streets, getting lost and discovering other little alleys/streets. It is a great way to see the city and take it all in. There are other amazing and happening neighbourhoods to visit in Barcelona, each offering great choices to eat, shop and wander. These are some neighbourhoods worth checking out:

◦Gracia

◦Sant Antoni

◦Born

◦Poble Nou

◦El Raval

MALLORCA

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A trip to the Spanish Island of Mallorca isn’t complete without having drinks and a swim at a rooftop pool. Or watching the sun go down and enjoying gorgeous views of Palma.

If you know me well, you know that I am obsessed with Mallorca. It’s one of my favourite Mediterranean destinations for summer. I have spent a lot of time on this Island and absolutely love the vibes and lifestyle here. The Spanish know how to live and enjoy life! You have access to the best beaches, delicious local cuisine, tapas and Spanish culture all in one destination.

Here are some of my insider travel tips for Mallorca:

Favourite Beaches on the Island:

Caló des Moro – this beach is stunning and by the far the most popular in Mallorca and in Europe. The water has the most breathtaking shades of turquoise. Pure bliss.

Cala Lombards – this beach has a small stretch of white sand and the water is also beautiful here too! Beautiful shades of blue, another great spot to swim!

Cala Agulla – is a lovely spot to snorkel and it’s surrounded by mountains. Another beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear waters and lovely shades of blue.

Favourite Tapas/Eats in Palma:

La Bodeguilla, 13%, Bar España, Es Baret, Fera Palma, Gaudeix, Abaco, Vermuteria La Rosa, Rivareno Gelato and for the best sunset spot on the island make sure you go to Sa Foradada – you will see the BEST sunset of your life!

Favourite walks:

Walk around the old town, it’s beautiful and historical with gorgeous architecture. Make sure you walk along Passeig Des Born and La Ramblas.

Favourite rooftops/pool hotels: 

Sant Francesc Hotel Singular and Nakar Hotel.

Outfit details: Top & Skirt

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIENNA PART 2

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Palmenhaus (Palm House) is an absolute joy and delight to visit in Vienna! This gorgeous greenhouse is located in the Schönbrunn Palace. Palmenhaus is divided into three climate zones and pavilions. The tallest room houses plants from the Mediterranean region, the Canary Islands, South Africa, America and Australia. The northern room houses plants from China, Japan, the Himalayas and New Zealand. Tropical and subtropical plants grow in the third area. It’s a beautiful greenhouse with architecture from the Art Nouveau era. It’s also a lovely walk through the lush greenery. You’ll love be surrounded by all the gorgeous greens – my favourite new discovery in Vienna.

Photography by Mona Torsan. Outfit Details: Dress

VIENNA

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Vienna is a beautiful city full of charm and is also known as the Imperial city. It is famous for it’s coffee houses (Viennese coffee), historical buildings, palaces, architecture and wine taverns. Every time I come to Vienna, I am in awe of the buildings and architecture, they are elaborate and spare no detail. I feel like I am walking through a scene from a fairytale – so magical.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most iconic sites to visit whilst in Vienna. It is also one of my favourite spots to walk around and admire the elegance of this beautiful Palace. This Baroque style Palace was the former summer residence of the Empress Sissi. An absolutely stunning and lavish Palace with over 1441 rooms. You can also take a stroll to visit the Palace park with its stunning gardens and the famous green house known as Palmenhaus Schönbrunn. A must when in Vienna.

Photography by Mona Torsan. Outfit Details: Top, Skirt, Sandals.

MALDIVES

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My recent trip to the Maldives was absolute BLISS! The only way to describe the Maldives is “Island Perfection”. It is absolutely stunning and pristine.

The Maldives is the perfect destination to soak up the sunshine, swim with turtles and manta rays, (that experience blew my mind), snorkel, drink fresh coconuts from the island and simply just relax. It’s definitely not hard to enjoy yourself or feel rejuvenated. You’re surrounded by stunning turquoise lagoons, white sand, crystal clear water, blue skies, palm trees and the most stunning coral reefs.

You know that saying “on island time”, well after spending a week in the Maldives, I have learnt to fully appreciate that saying. I love the Maldives!

NYC VIBES

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No matter how many times I visit New York, it always feel like I’m discovering new things in the city. There is always so much to do and so much to see. It’s the kind of city where every minute counts, because there is an abundance of cool and amazing thing to do! I can never get enough of this city.

Some of my favourite thing to do and places to visit when in New York:

  • Walk The High Line (Meatpacking District)
  • Visit the Glossier Showroom, lots of pink & mirrors
  • Sézane for the ultimate Parisian chic shopping
  •  Drinks at rooftop bars (Check out the Refinery rooftop)
  • Stroll through the West Village and SoHo
  • Get a mani/pedi at Sundays Nail Studio (Best nontoxic mani &pedi in town)
  • Eat matcha muffins at Sweets by Chloe
  • Make your own customised lipstick at the Bite Beauty Lab
  • Walk around NoLita, you will find some very cool street art
  • Have a matcha at Matcha Cha Cha

 

 

 

MALLORCA

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Mallorca is one of my favourite European destinations. Palma De Mallorca is the Island’s capital, it’s stunning, quaint and cosmopolitan. It is also like a mini Barcelona. You will find impressive, colourful buildings designed by Guadi, the most authentic and delicious tapas, fabulous shopping as well as historical sites.

This Spanish Island has some of the worlds most beautiful beaches. There are over 200 beaches to discover on the Island.  My favourite beaches are located in the area of Santanyí. This is a stunning and lovely part of Mallorca to visit or stay in.

I love Mallorca it’s the perfect holiday destination, you can relax, swim in crystal clear waters, shop and eat the best Spanish food.

 

 

 

Polka Dots

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There’s something about polka dots that emanates a timeless, chic yet playful look. You can never go wrong with a polka dot dress. The polka dot pattern has always been one of my favourite prints.

Feeling like a Spanish señorita in Mallorca and definitely feeling the Island vibes with this gorgeous and flowing dress.  I love how this dress perfectly flows with the Island breeze of Spain.

 

Belgium

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Belgium is a historic country, often referred to as the capital of Europe. It is well known for its architecture, medieval towns, delicious chocolates, waffles, mussels and beer.

Being my first time in Belgium, I was very excited about exploring Brussels and Brugge.

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and it is a charming city full of culture and history. The centre of Brussels is where you will a lot of the sights and attractions. The main attraction is the Grand Place, located in the central square. You will admire the Guild-houses in the Flemish baroque style. I also discovered that Tin Tin (comics) actually originated from Belgium. As an art student, I was also fascinated with the Baroque and Flemish artists, so it was very exciting to be able to visit their origins.

Besides all the stunning art and architecture, Brussels is lined with numerous chocolate and bon bon shops – and waffle houses! Get ready to eat some scrumptious waffles, chocolates and of course Belgium beer.

From Brussels you can do a day trip to Brugge, it’s only one hour on the train and definitely worth the trip.

Brugge is a stunning city that looks like a fairytale illustration. The Flemish city is picturesque, quaint and can easily be explored in couple of hours. The city is often referred to as Venice of the North due to it’s canals, thus you can take a boat ride and discover more of the city from the water. Walking around the cobble streets and lanes, you will be in awe of the almshouses, the architecture and historical churches.

I had the best hot chocolate in Brugge, in one of the most oldest and historic chocolate houses – called The Old Chocolate House. You know the hot chocolate is good when locals are drinking it. There are also gourmet waffles houses where you can indulge in a variety of waffles and flavours.

I loved discovering Brussels and Brugge, such charming and interesting cities to visit. I’d recommend 1-2 days for Brussels and day trip to Brugge.