Author: Gabriella Wisdom

  • 9 points of interest on a road trip in Scotland

    9 points of interest on a road trip in Scotland

    Scotland is beautiful. So beautiful in fact that it made me sad knowing that I was born and raised in England and never took the time to drive up there. With endless snowcapped mountains, more sheep than you can shake a stick at and medieval architecture with the richest of histories, I would recommend a trip to Scotland for anyone who loves starting the day with a hike in the mountains and ending it with a G&T made from a local gin in a quaint village pub.

    In December 2019 we drove from home (Norfolk, England) all the way up to Scotland and back, making overnight stops at Edinburgh, Isle of Skye and Glasgow. Here are nine of the best things that we did both in these destinations and on the journeys in-between:

    1. Edinburgh Castle

    Where?

    Edinburgh

    After pulling over to take selfies at the England/Scotland border, our first stop was Edinburgh, more specifically, Edinburgh Castle.

    Proudly looking out over the city from the top of the hill that Edinburgh is built upon is Edinburgh Castle. It’s centuries old and has been the centre piece to centuries of battles between the English and Scottish monarchies, all of which you can learn about within the castle’s walls.

    The views of the city from the castle are amazing but the pièce de résistance is visiting the crown jewels which includes the story of how they were made, hidden, lost and then found.

    PFH Top Tip: Try to be around the castle at 1pm when a gun is fired precisely at one o’ clock. The tradition comes from alerting the ships in the nearby waters to set their maritime clocks. The sound of the gun firing echos across the city and can be heard every day except for Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day.

    Cost

    £17.50 for adults

    £10.50 for children aged 5-15 years old

    Children under 5 years old go free

    £14 for seniors aged 60+ 

    Opening times

    1st April – 30th September 9.30 – 6pm (last entry at 5pm)

    1st October – 31st March 9.30am – 5pm (last entry at 4pm)

    2. Whisky tasting or a distillery tour

    Where?

    Edinburgh (and just about everywhere in Scotland)

    Whilst in Edinburgh we went to The Scotch Whisky Experience to learn about the production of whisky. There are many options for tours at The Scotch Whisky Experience from the basic introduction covered on the Silver tour right the way through to masterclasses. As we are not fans of whisky but wanted to learn we chose the Silver tour which includes the following:


    • An automated whisky barrel ride that tells you the process of the production of Scotch Whisky.



    • An introductory video that teaches you the various aromas of Scotch whisky related to its region.



    • A lesson in how to taste whisky which includes a dram of Scotch Whisky (or Irn-Bru for children under 18).



    • A viewing of the world’s largest collection of Scotch Whisky.



    • A complimentary crystal whisky tasting glass (adults only).


    Of course you don’t just have to go here, there are many liquor shops in Edinburgh that will teach you about Scotch Whisky, we chose here because we didn’t want to pay for an experience where we had to try more than one whisky!

    The other option you have in Scotland that’s centred around alcohol is to visit one of the countless distilleries both whisky and gin. Scotland gin and whisky is world famous and you won’t find it hard to find a distillery wherever you are in the country. Even when we were on the Isle of Skye and all I could see for miles was mountains and sheep there were still two distilleries there! We weren’t successful with visiting one because the ones we tried to go to were closed on the weekend so my advice is to check in advance. My alternative advice is to sit in a pub and (responsibly) work your way through their selection of local gins!

    Cost

    The costs for the Silver tour as follows:

    £17 for adults

    £8 for children

    £15 for seniors aged 60+

    Opening times

    January – March 10am – 5pm

    April 10am – 6pm

    May – June 10am – 8pm

    July 10am – 8.20pm

    August Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm

    August Saturday & Sunday 1-am – 5.40pm

    September – December 10am – 5pm

    Tours runs approximately every 20mins from opening.

    3. Cairngorms Reindeer Centre

    Where?

    Cairngorms National Park

    Meet Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer in their natural environment at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

    Depending on the time of year there are two different experiences available: the hill trip and the paddock visit.

    Hill trip

    If you are physically able to make the trip up the hill to where the reindeer roam free then I strongly suggest you rise early to get tickets for this tour (see more under opening times below). Upon receiving your ticket you will be given directions and a parking pass for the Sugarbowl car park just a few minutes up the road. Here you will park and wait for the rangers to gather everyone at 11am. From there they will guide you across the road and down a steep path to a bridge crossing a river, where you will then make a short but steep incline up the hill to where the free-ranging reindeer are.

    The rangers will give you a brief introduction to the reindeer herd and will then give you a handful of food to hand feed them. Don’t worry about having to find a reindeer, they know you have food and will come to you. It is best advised that you take your gloves off to feed them so you can feel their velvety soft noses, trust me they’re incredibly soft!

    The tour lasts around 1.5 – 2 hours but you have the option of staying a little longer if you want to hang out with the reindeer for longer. To be honest though it’s very cold up there and once the reindeer work out you don’t have any more food, they aren’t interested in cuddles anymore.

    Reindeer etiquette 


    • All children must stand with an adult.



    • Do not bend down near a reindeer, they will perceive it as a signal that you want to fight them and you’ll be smacked with their antlers. I ducked in a photo so you could see the reindeer behind me without thinking and one came up to headbutt me in the leg with her antlers.



    • Do not chase them.



    • Don’t touch their faces, it irritates them which can again result in an antler-driven headbutt.



    • Don’t approach them from behind, it can startle them and they may run away or again, headbutt you.


    Paddock visit

    From Easter to the New Year it is possible to visit some reindeer in the paddock at the centre.

    This option is best for people with mobility difficulties and young children who are unable to make the steep walk up the hill.

    Whilst at the paddock rangers will teach you about the reindeer and will even be able to identify each one.

    Although you are able to touch the reindeer you won’t be able to hand feed them, this is so they maintain a healthy weight.

    PFH Fun Fact: Each season of calves are named with a theme. Previous themes were cheese (yes there’s Parmesan the reindeer), European cities and to commemorate the 2012 London Olympics the 2012 theme was…2012.

    What to wear

    Second to Ben Nevis, Cairngorms National Park is the highest mountain range in all of the United Kingdom and is a sub-arctic environment. Reindeer don’t feel the cold until the temperature drops below -30 degrees Celsius but you’re not reindeer so here’s how I recommend you keep warm:


    • A warm coat, preferably one that is waterproof as Scotland is notorious for rainfall, and if you go in winter the chances of snowfall are high.



    • A snood. A scarf may unwrap in the wind and you don’t want it to brush against the reindeers’ faces and startle them so I suggest a snood. Plus it will defend your face from the harsh windchill which can be in the minus.



    • Waterproof over trousers.



    • A wooly hat to keep heat from escaping through the top of your head and to protect your ears from the wind.



    • Thermal base layers, both tops and long-johns. For females I recommend a pair of thermal tights so you can have an added layer on your feet.



    • As many thick socks as you can fit into your boots. (I had 3 pairs of snow socks and my toes were still numb).



    • Layers. Layer up as much as you can under your coat.



    • Hiking boots or wellies (you can rent a pair of wellies for £1 from the centre if you don’t have hiking boots or wellies. They won’t let you go up with anything else on your feet).


    Between June – October it is advised that you wear insect repellent. 

    Cost

    Hill trip

    £16 for adults

    £10 for children 

    Children under 3 years old go free

    Paddock visit

    £3.50 for adults

    £2.50 for children

    Children under 3 years old go free

    Closed on Christmas Day, 1st January and from 6th January – 8th February 2020.

    Opening times

    The centre opens at 10am.

    Tickets are first come first served, I strongly advise arriving at least before 9.30am (9am on weekends) to make sure you get tickets.

    Tours depart at 11am and 2.30pm with an additional trip at 3.30pm in July and August during weekdays.

    Still arrive before 9.30am to buy your tickets for the afternoon tours as they will be sold to the people in the queue who don’t get on the 11am tour.

    Winter trips may have adverse weather and therefore the centre may decline children to keep them safe. The centre telephone line is open from 9am so call ahead if you have concerns about the weather. The first time we tried to go the snow was so bad that we couldn’t even get to the centre.

    The paddock is open from 10am – 5pm Easter – New Year.

    4. Loch Ness

    Where?

    Inverness

    It might not be the most beautiful loch in Scotland but it’s without a doubt the most famous one! If you don’t already know why, it’s because legend has it a monster known as the Loch Ness monster, or Nessie for short, lives in the depths of the loch. Its neck long and not unlike a Brachiosaurus with its body formed of many humps that protrude from the water. The first sighting was in 1933 with various pieces of “evidence” coming to light over the years when photoshop didn’t exist so it was hard to disprove.

    Despite Loch Ness being 56.4 km², a road trip around Scotland would be incomplete without an attempt to spot infamous Nessie from one of the many parking bays surrounding the loch.

    Cost

    There is no entrance fee to visit Loch Ness.

    5. Glenfinnan Viaduct (Featured in Harry Potter)

    Where?

    Glenfinnan

    This 30m high structure built in the 1897 is most famously known for being the railway bridge that the Hogwarts Express travels across in the first Harry Potter film of the series, The Philosopher’s Stone, it’s also worth a visit simply because it’s magnificent. 

    For the best view point on foot, turn right out of the car park and start walking along the road until you reach a private car park which is gated off. Walk past the gate and continue up the path until you find another small path heading up hill on your left, just before you reach the viaduct. You’ll then cross under the viaduct and start curving back on yourself as you walk along the path up the hillside. When the path widens you will be able to look out upon the viaduct.

    PFH Top Tip: For the best photo op, aim to be there around 10.55am or 3pm where you will see the Jacobite steam train cross the bridge aka, the Hogwarts Express.

    Cost

    Though you don’t have to pay to visit the viaduct, there is a £4 charge for parking. Though we arrived at 4pm (in December) when the sun was going down and the kind gentleman allowed us to park for free because we wouldn’t be there long due to the fading light. If you just want to hop out to see the viaduct and/or have a really good camera to shoot in low light, you could try your luck doing this.

    Opening times

    The visitor centre is open 9.30am – 4pm.

    6. The Old Man of Storr

    Where?

    Isle of Skye

    The Old Man of Storr is a peculiar rock formation up in the rocky hills on the Isle of Skye. The pinnacle was created by a massive ancient landslide and on a good day it can be seen for miles, but on a bad day, you’ll be lucky to catch it between breaks in the mist.

    We, of course, hiked up on a very grey and miserable day but we did manage to catch a glimpse as the mist cleared for a few fleeting moments. I would say don’t give up hope if the weather is bad, just pray for wind.

    There are various hiking routes surrounding the Old Man of Storr. As the weather was dreadful and the light was fading we chose to hike up to where it levelled out and we could appreciate the view of both the pinnacle and the vast stretch of water behind. There and back with a break for a cuppa and a few photos took us approximately 2hrs.

    The terrain is steep, rocky and wet so I strongly advise hiking boots. Michael foolishly forgot to pack his and found it to be a slippery slope in his running shoes.

    Cost

    There is one car park that is free whilst the roadside parking is paid parking. I suggest you arrive as early as you can to park in the free car park, which is close to the entrance gate up the mountain (next to the construction site).

    In winter you shouldn’t have a problem parking.

    As we went in winter when it was quiet we used the free car park and therefore I don’t know the cost of parking along the road.

    7. Fairy Pools

    Where?

    Isle of Skye

    The walk from the car park to the pools isn’t strenuous like the walk up to the Man of Storr is, it’s paved for most of the way and only has a shallow incline. You do however have to cross many rushing streams both over stepping stones and giving into getting your shoes wet when the rainfall has been heavy and the rocks are submerged. For this reason I strongly recommend wellies or hiking boots.

    Though many online guides will tell you the walk there and back is only 40mins, disregard this because it doesn’t include stopping to take in the view nor does it included walking to the furthest pools.

    There are many pools to see but the further you go the more pure the blue water becomes in colour. Once you see it for yourself it’s not hard to imagine little fairies hanging around.

    The path to the pools is the same you take back.

    Cost

    There is no entrance fee to the Fairy Pools but there is a parking cost of £5 per car. This is cash only so come prepared.

    8. Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow

    Where?

    Glasgow

    There are four galleries within the GoMA, all of which are free to enter and rotate throughout the year so check ahead to see what is on here.

    The best feature of the museum and no doubt the part that draws people to it from all over the world is the equestrian statue of the 1st Duke of Wellington that stands out front with a traffic cone upon his head. The traffic cone hat is a tradition that started way back in the 80s and was accepted as a way of expressing Glaswegians’ humorous side.

    Cost

    Entrance is free

    Opening times

    Monday – Wednesday 10am – 5pm

    Thursday 10am – 8pm

    Friday 11am – 5pm

    Saturday 10am – 5pm

    Sunday 11am – 5pm

    9. Glasgow Cathedral

    Where?

    Glasgow

    Read any guide of places to visit in Glasgow and the cathedral will be top of the list. For over 800 years Christians have worshiped God from within the medieval walls of this vast cathedral. Having been dedicated in 1136, it is the oldest cathedral on mainland Scotland and is the oldest building in all of Glasgow. 

    Cost

    Entrance is free.

    Opening times

    Monday – Saturday 10am – 3.30pm

    Sunday 1pm – 3.30pm

    Our road trip around Scotland was just a week long and we were able to comfortably visit all of these places even with only 6.5 hours of daylight (as we visited in December). I chose these places to highlight because you truly get a feel for Scotland’s passions from their medieval history to the vast and beautiful landscape.

    If you have any questions about my trip, feel free to contact me here.

    Aloha, Gabriella

    Pin this post




  • European mulled wine recipe

    European mulled wine recipe

    No trip to any Christmas market is complete without a glass of mulled wine, even just the scent of it brings festive joy.

    For those of you who don’t know, mulled wine is a full-bodied red wine which has been infused with a variety of spices and citrus fruits and served warm.

    The first records of red wine being spiced and served hot was in Rome 2000 years ago and though the variation of spices changes between countries, traditions and households, the act of drinking mulled wine during the festive season in Europe has withheld for centuries. To compare Europe’s love for mulled wine, consider it what eggnog is to North Americans.

    Though it is possible to buy pre-bottled red wine or mulled wine spice sachets (the Fortnum and Mason’s ones are particularly good) nothing beats making it from scratch, plus it’s very simple and it’s guaranteed to impress your party guests.

    This recipe is for one bottle of wine which will serve four glasses, for a guide to serving portions, estimate two glasses per guest.

    Ingredients

    100g caster sugar

    1/2 lemon

    1/2 lime

    1 clementine

    3 whole cloves

    Half a cinnamon stick

    Half a grated nutmeg

    1 fresh bay leaf

    1 vanilla pod

    1 star anise

    1 bottle of full-bodied red wine

    Equipment

    Large saucepan

    Scales

    Spoon

    Chopping board

    Small sharp knife

    Citrus juicer

    Silicone or wooden spoon

    Ladle

    Method

    1. Peel large sections of the rind of half the lemon and lime and the whole clementine using the sharp knife.

    2. Slice the clementine in half and squeeze the juice with the citrus juicer.

    3. Slice the vanilla pod in half, length-ways.

    4. Measure out the sugar and put in the saucepan.

    5. Place the saucepan over a medium heat (or the cooler side of an AGA) along with all of the fruit peel and the clementine juice.

    6. Give it a stir so the sugar is coated in juice.


    7. Add the cloves, vanilla pod, bay leaf, cinnamon stick and grate in half of the nutmeg.

    8. Pour in just enough red wine to cover the sugar then stir.

    9. Allow the mixture to simmer until the sugar has dissolved creating a thick syrup. This allow the spices to infuse into the wine for a richly spiced taste, plus it makes your kitchen smell amazing!


    11. If you’re using a hob, turn the heat down low whilst you add the rest of the bottle of wine then add your star anise. Turn up the heat slightly to allow the wine to heat through.


    12. When the wine is warm, use a ladle to serve it into mugs or heat proof glasses.


    Enjoy!

    .

    Mele Kalikmaka, Gabriella

    Pin this post




  • 12 things to do in London during the holidays

    12 things to do in London during the holidays

    London is one of the most magical places to be at Christmas, the whole city sparkles as everyone with rosey noses from the cold wishes you a merry Christmas, before they elbow you in the ribs squeezing onto the tube at Oxford Circus. I said magical, not perfect! 

    Seriously though, it is one of the best places to visit around the holidays, there’s so much going on that everyone can find something they’ll enjoy doing. Don’t believe me? Well check out my list of 12 things to do in London during the holidays below:

    1. Marvel at the Christmas lights and displays

    Central London’s Christmas lights attract thousands of people every year. For the best displays head to:

    Oxford Street

    For the first time in six years, Oxford Street’s Christmas lights have had a makeover and all the lights have been replaced with LED ones. The 2019 display is made up of 27 LED interactive “light curtains” made up of 222,000 lights. The theme is #festivefeelings and if that doesn’t summarise the end of this decade I don’t know what does.

    Regent Street

    This year Regent Street is celebrating its 200th anniversary. Go pay a visit to the angels that float gracefully above this iconic London street. This year’s “The Spirit of Christmas” lights are inspired by their 1954 Christmas light display.

    Carnaby Street

    The Christmas display at Carnaby Street always has a contemporary theme that captures compelling moments in time. Last year (2018) was dedicated to Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody celebrating not only the incredible success of the band but also the Academy Award winning film that loosely documented their rise to fame.

    This year the theme of Carnaby Street’s Christmas display is the plastic pollution crisis in our oceans. Carnaby x Project Zero has created a seascape featuring jellyfish, a whale, crabs and more and has various points where you can donate to the oceanic conservation charity, Project Zero. There are also recycling points for single use coffee cups and tips on how you can help the ocean today!

    Covent Garden Market

    Covent Garden market never disappoints as the quaint little spot in central London always shows off with an Instgrammable art installation. Last year a little green car stacked impossibly high with presents sat in the courtyard with pretty little benches all around. This year various companies including the Royal Opera House has sponsored various Christmas trees which you can stand amongst for that all important IG snap. From ballerina shoes to giant hanging candy canes, each tree is uniquely festive.

    Tiffany & co. also pulled a fun festive installation out of the bag which you can also grab photos with.

    2. Ice skating

    Ice rinks pop up all across London from Canary Wharf in East London to the Westfield in West London. The two best ones to skate at though are:

    Natural History Museum ice rink

    If you’re looking for the nicest rink with the best view then head to the ice rink at the Natural History Museum in Knightsbridge, opposite the V&A museum. From the ice you’ll be able to look up at the museum’s grand facade plus they have a giant Christmas tree in the centre which is sponsored by Viktor & Rolf this year (2019).

    The Natural History Museum ice rink is particularly good to visit if you are bringing children because they offer little penguins to keep them upright, plus you can take them to the museum after your time on the ice.

    Cost

    Adult tickets start from £12.65

    Child tickets under 12 years old start from £8.80 

    Family tickets start from £39.60

    Entrance to the Natural History Museum is free!

    Opening times

    19 October 2019 – 12 January 2020

    Daily 10am – 10pm

    Closed Christmas Day

    Skate at Somerset House

    Michael and I have been skating at the ice rink in Somerset House since we were at uni, nearly a decade has passed and I still cling to the wall whilst it zips off lapping me until I get bored waiting for him to fall and leave the ice to get a hot drink instead.

    What I love most about the Skate at Somerset House is their sponsors and this year is no exception as it’s sponsored by none other than Fortnum & Mason. For those of you who don’t know, Fortnum & Mason is a department store, originally founded as a grocery store in 1707. It is by appointment to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Prince of Wales and is the luxury that you never knew you needed in life, especially during the holiday season.

    Take a snap in front of their Christmas tree, pick up some treats and stocking fillers in their pop up store which features everything they do best: tea, biscuits, coffee, jam, chocolate, sweets and more! They even have a little Christmas shop in there too! Once you’ve shopped, adjourn to The Lodge next door which is their pop up restaurant where you can crack your own walnuts and enjoy people falling on the ice from the warm with one of many festive themed drinks and an extensive menu of posh party food classics.

    Cost

    Adult tickets are £15

    Children under 12 years old are £9.50

    Opening times

    13 Nov 2019 – 12 Jan 2020

    Mon – Sat 9am – 9pm

    Sun 9am – 8pm

    .

    Personally I would recommend the NHM ice rink if you want great photos and Skate at Somerset House if you want a good time off the ice.

    3. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

    Located in the centre of Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park attracts over 3 million tourists a year (according to The Londonist).

    It’s fun for anyone who doesn’t mind loud noises and big crowds. I can’t lie, although it’s definitely something you should experience in London around the Holidays, it requires patience. It’s best experienced with a large group of friends who are happy to stand around the Eastern European themed lodges and bars or with kids who want to ice skate and go on the rides.

    As well as bars and rides, there’s also plenty of eateries covering a multitude of cuisines and market stalls selling festive wares.

    Cost

    Entrance to Winter Wonderland is free

    Opening times

    21st November 2019 – 5th January 2020

    Daily 10am – 10pm

    4. Take a stroll through Hyde Park with a hot drink

    If the shoulder to shoulder bustle of Winter Wonderland isn’t your thing, and trust me no one blames you, take it easy in Hyde Park by going for a stroll with a hot drink instead. The park is surrounded by coffee shops and filled with multiple kiosks. Remember to bring your reusable cup!

    5. Visit the Liberty of London Christmas shop

    Liberty of London’s Christmas shop on the top floor is the best Christmas shop you’ll find in London. Two rooms are dedicated to all things festive from decorations big and small to crackers, candles and advent calendars. Not just any decorations either, if you’re looking to theme your tree like you’re a high-rolling-Kardashian then this is the place to come. A patriotic brit theme? Pick up an array of glittering Union Jack baubles and portraits of the Queen. A tropical theme? Brightly coloured hibiscus flowers and palm trees are to hand. You can even go for a Christmas dinner theme with felt sprouts, turkeys and pigs-in-blankets! Whatever you think of, you can most definitely pull off with a one stop shop at Liberty.

    PFH Top Tip: Liberty of London marks up prices big time, I bought a candle in there for £27.95 only to find it elsewhere for £20. I would browse for Inspiration and search online for a better price.

    6. Christmas window displays at Selfridges & co.

    Before enduring some wildly expensive gift shopping in Selfridges, take a moment to marvel at their themed window displays. Another window display worth checking out is Fortnum and Mason’s.

    7. Shop in Fortnum and Mason’s food hall

    If you didn’t fancy ice skating at Somerset House or want to expand on your Fortnum’s experience then head to Fortnum and Mason’s original store on Piccadilly Street. I am a big fan of their food hall and have bought stocking fillers and Christmas treats here for the last eight years. You can never go wrong with a treat from Fortnum’s. 

    My top stocking filler picks for my family every year are:


    • Dark Chocolate covered ginger



    • Cinnamon dusted almonds



    • Tins of biscuits



    • Tins of loose tea



    • Chutneys



    • Welsh rarebit


    8. Harrods at night

    Harrods has the most impressive and iconic shop front. When the sun goes down its whole facade comes to life with the help of 12,000 light bulbs, a tradition which began 60 years ago in 1959. This has been a very popular Instagrammable spot this year so it’s a great place to grab a snap for your ‘gram.

    9. Borough Market

    Feeling peckish? Head to Borough Market near London Bridge.

    Borough Market is one of the oldest food markets in London. A food market is known to have been at Borough Market as far back as the 12th century. Now with over 100 traders you’re sure to find a snack, meal or stocking filler here.

    PFH Top Tip: The doughnuts from Bread Ahead are amazing!

    Search the market map here.

    Opening hours

    Monday – Thursday 10am – 5pm

    Friday 10am – 6pm 

    Saturday 8am – 5pm

    Sunday closed

    10. Get dinner and watch a show on the West End

    It’s one of the most classic and cultured things to do in London: dinner and a show. With a multitude of theatres spread out across the West End you’ll be best leaving yourself plenty of time before your show to grab dinner so that you can get there without rushing. 

    To find out how to get the cheapest theatre tickets in London take a look at my blog post, How to get discounted London theatre tickets.

    11. Grab a pint in a traditional English pub

    These pubs in London boast the richest history but are often overlooked by tourists who either want pretty exteriors for photos or locals who want cheap deals in Whetherspoons. The ones I recommend are: 

    Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

    Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese deserves top spot just for the name. It’s one of the oldest pubs in London having been re-built after The Great Fire of London in 1666 and still has all of it’s dark and awkward character it did way back when. Head deeper underground as the light fades and the randomly shaped rooms shrink to enjoy a pint or two just as Charles Dickens often did way back in the 1800s.

    Where? 

    Fleet Street

    Opening hours

    Mon – Fri 11.30am-11pm 

    Sat 12pm-11pm

    Sun closed

    The Old Bell Tavern

    Famously built by Sir Christopher Wren (one smart cookie), The Old Bell Tavern has been a licensed tavern for more than 300 years. It was originally built to house Sir Wren’s masons who were rebuilding the St Bride’s Church after the fire of 1666.

    PFH Fun Fact: The Old Bell Tavern is located on the same street as the infamous Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Sweeney Todd!

    Where?

    Fleet Street

    Opening hours

    Mon – Wed 11.30am – 11pm

    Thurs – Fri 11am – 11pm

    Sat 12pm – 9pm

    Sun 2pm – 6pm

    The Hoop and Grapes

    Not to be confused with Hoop & Grapes, another London pub. Though the interior doesn’t give the impression, this building has been standing for the last four centuries and famously survived The Great Fire of London in 1666. The fire stopped just 50 yards from the pub and is one of very few timber framed buildings to have survived this period.

    PFH Top Tip: Try a G&T from their extensive list of flavoured gins. Instead of those awful fishbowls pubs often serve them in, Hoop and Grapes serves your G&T in a tall crystal glass, classy. My tipple of choice is a single shot of Chase’s Pink Grapefruit and Pomelo gin with Fever Tree’s Mediterranean tonic… you can thank me later.

    Where?

    Aldgate 

    Opening hours

    Mon 12pm – 10.30pm

    Tues – Sun 12pm – 11.30pm

    Lamb & Flag

    Tucked away into the back streets of Covent Garden just before you reach China Town is Lamb & Flag, yet another spot where Charles Dickens would frequent. They’re better known for their bloody history though. During the early nineteenth century the pub was dubbed “The Bucket of Blood” as the tiny alleyway alongside the pubs side door used to host bare-knuckle prize fights. It’s also known to be the location where Jon Dryden was attacked by thugs in 1679.

    Where?

    Covent Garden

    Opening hours

    Mon – Thurs 11am-11pm 

    Fri – Sat 11am-11.30pm 

    Sun 12pm -10.30pm 

    The George

    This 17th century medieval coaching inn is remarkably the only remaining galleried inn in London. What’s a galleried inn I hear you say? Galleried inns have balconies looking out onto an inner-courtyard which would host Elizabethan theatrical productions. 

    It’s also another spot where Dickens would wet his whistle and was mentioned in “Little Dorrit”.

    Where?

    Southwark

    Opening hours

    Mon – Thurs 11am – 11pm

    Fri- Sat 11am – 12am

    Sun 12pm – 10.30pm

    PFH Top Tip: If you want any chance of sitting down in a London pub, avoid 5pm – 7pm when 99.9% of Londoners will be clocking off work and heading to their local watering hole. You can’t argue against this time having the best atmosphere though.

    New Year’s Eve fireworks

    Ok sorry, you can’t do this all throughout the holiday season but if you’re lucky enough to be in London to ring in the new year then this is an absolute must just once in your life. Line up along the river bank opposite the Coca Cola London Eye to take in one of the world’s most spectacularly orchestrated firework displays, and you can guarantee that this year’s display is going to be their best one yet as we welcome in the new decade! 

    Unfortunately the tickets for the New Year’s Eve fireworks have sold out but london.gov have ideas for other ways you can enjoy them here.

    I hope you have a wonderful time if you’re visiting London during the holidays. If you do anything on this list, be sure to tag me in your Instagram posts and stories using @gabriellawisdom and I’ll share them!

    Mele Kalikimaka, Gabriella

    Pin this post




    If you loved this post, check out my following London guides:

  • Christmas postcards (from Hawaii) with TouchNote

    Christmas postcards (from Hawaii) with TouchNote

    In Christmas of 2014, Michael and I had not long started renting our first flat together and as 22 year olds living in The Big Smoke (that’s London for you out-of-towners) we wanted to show off that we were a) grown ups and b) had a sense of humour. So upon seeing an advert for TouchNote and a bunch of viral homemade Christmas cards (you know that one with the man holding his cat but the cat’s head is also floating like a cat moon – google it) we decided to throw on our handmade Christmas jumpers and act out a scene from the 2003 film, Elf.

    Christmas 2014

    The year after we ended up moving back in with our parents and so the idea of photoshopping our heads (cat-moon inspired) into pre-existing images seemed more appealing than a photo on my parent’s sofa. This then became the recurring theme of our annual Christmas cards, sent all around the world, always with TouchNote.

    Christmas 2015 – Just to be clear, contrary to popular belief we weren’t claiming Michael was the Messiah! We were just lazily acting out the Nativity Scene!

    Why TouchNote?

    What I love most about TouchNote is how easy it is to use their app to make something so unique and personal which I can send all over the world, postage included. Not only does the app save you money, it also saves you time, time that could be spent exploring wherever you have travelled to, instead of hunting down post offices.

    Christmas 2018. We sent this one to Michael’s Nannies because they weren’t getting any of our references!

    Another great thing about having the TouchNote app is that it is my address book, no matter where I go. The app allows you to save addresses in the TouchNote Address Book, even when you’re not sending a postcard. So whenever I need to send something abroad, whether it’s a TouchNote card or not, I always go on the app to check my address book. Plus I recently learnt that you can add birthdays to the address profile and the app will send out a reminder to send that person a card – something that has proved very helpful when my travel schedule gets hectic and certain dates slip my mind.

    Christmas 2016 – We decided to revisit the theme of films from our first card, and thus our 2016 Blade of Glory (2007) card sparked the running theme for our future Christmas cards with TouchNote.

    Did you know that TouchNote prints and posts cards from the UK, USA, Netherlands and Australia? What does this mean? I’ll tell you. It means that the cost of international postage is minimal compared to sending something yourself from where you live. I am so grateful for this because every year I send out multiple Christmas cards to Australia, New Zealand and Canada so I know not only am I sending a personal and creative card with TouchNote, but I’m also saving money on postage. So sending Christmas cards out to all of your friends, old and new, that you’ve met on your travels around the world won’t make a hole in your pocket this festive season!

    As the printing location depends on the destination of your card, the delivery times can vary, but here is an approximation of how long it should take:


    • UK 1-3 working days



    • USA 2-5 working days



    • Europe 3-5 working days



    • Australia 2-4 working days



    • Rest of the World 5-10 working days


    Also keep in mind that postal systems work differently around the world so the delivery time does also depend on that. My advice is to get them sent off as early as you can, to avoid the Christmas postal back up!

    Christmas 2017 – Our Gremlins (1984) card really spoke for our true characters.

    Plus sending out your Christmas cards with TouchNote is so efficient now that instead having to dedicate a whole weekend to writing out endless cards, you can send one card in bulk in minutes. This year I was able to send out my cards in less time than it took the Gilmore girls to say coffee in the re-run I was watching (oh yeah, THAT fast). Take a look at the GIF below for how!

    What’s even better about TouchNote is that it’s not just cards that you can make with them! You can create canvases, framed photos and photo books. Plus if you want to go that extra mile to make your little ones’ Christmas even more magical, you can even send them a card from Santa! How exciting is that? Open the TouchNote app to find out more.

    To read more about why I use TouchNote or to get more information on how to order your postcard, delivery and memberships, take a look at Postcards from the world with TouchNote. 

    Save the world!

    According to Phs, during Christmas the UK alone creates 30% more waste than usual and included in that is approximately 1 billion Christmas cards that are put in the bin and not even recycled! Of course not sending cards would probably put you on a lot of people’s naughty list, but there is a way that you can prevent your card from ending up in a landfill: make it personal. By making a personalised Christmas card with TouchNote you can pull at your loved one’s heartstrings preventing it from getting thrown away. Each year all of our Christmas cards that we sent to friends and family come out on display, my best friend in Australia even treats them like her decorations and displays them on her bookcase every year.

    Amy’s bookcase every Christmas in Australia.

    So by sending cards that are too beloved to throw away, you’re basically saving the planet!

    Friends & Family testimonials

    Of course I could go on and on about why I love using TouchNote and how it has made sending postcards easier, more cost-effective and personal, but I figured you might want to hear from my nearest and dearest, and how they feel about receiving our TouchNote cards.

    “Confession: Every time I receive a Christmas card I read it, appreciate it for a moment, and then immediately discard it. EXCEPT for Michael and Gaby’s Christmas cards!!! They are so clever, and make us laugh so hard that they go right on the fridge where they remain and entertain for the next 365 days. Plus, my one year old daughter likes to gaze at them in her spare time.” 

    Katie, friend in Canada

    “I love my collection of hilarious and quirky postcards from Gaby, every Christmas I am so excited to receive one of her epic postcards. You never know what brilliant Christmas scenario they will add their faces to, utterly hysterical! I love them so much that they’ve become a part of my Christmas decorations, every year I get them all out on display.”

    Amy, friend in Australia

    Christmas 2018 – The best part about our Home Alone (1990) Christmas card is that half of the people who received it didn’t realise that we were The Sticky Bandits! This one in particular was a special edit for my Jewish family members.

    “Can you say that you’ve ever looked forward to opening a greeting card more than the gift it’s attached to? No? Well you haven’t received a personalised card then! Not to say that Gaby is a bad present buyer (she’s amazing), but the number of times we’ve been left on the floor crying in laughter after receiving one of her cards is unprecedented. I never realised she was one of the villains in Home Alone… or Mary in the Nativity Scene!”

    Julian, cousin in New Zealand

    Our 2019 Christmas card!

    So what are you waiting for? Download the TouchNote app here and get started on a more personal and unique Christmas card for your loved ones today! Whether it’s Photoshopped, a selfie, themed or just your favourite snap from this year, TouchNote will help you say “Happy Holidays” better than any card you could buy!

    You can also start your free 14 day membership where you will get access to all of the stickers and borders including festive ones for the holidays! To learn more about using the stickers, check out Get creative with travel stickers and TouchNote.

    Aloha, Gabriella

    Pin this post


  • 8 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    8 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    Rio de Janeiro is one of the most culturally immersive countries I have ever visited. It is also one of my favourite places to travel to and I would go back in a heartbeat. You might be thinking, “But Gabriella, I’ve heard it’s dangerous.” Well like all places that have wealth and poverty side by side, there will be more trouble than if that wasn’t the case, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to be at the epicentre of it! Of the two times I have been to Rio, I have never felt scared, at risk or uncomfortable. No matter where you travel to, you must always be conscious of your surroundings, don’t strike somewhere off you travel bucket list because you have heard other people’s stories, you must make your own.

    In 2016 we went on a round the world trip that ended in Rio. We only went there for 3 nights because we were scared to stay longer. We had been told awful stories and everyone warned us not to go, plus the media was have a frenzy over stories of the Olympic Games being too dangerous. In those three days we never left Copacabana or Ipanema and boy did we miss out! We had a great time and never felt at endangered. As much as we loved Rio, the feeling that we had missed out on something magical by not exploring further was overwhelming. So when we returned October 2019 we decided that we would do everything we could fit in, from indulging on street food to getting up close and personal with Christ the Redeemer, and I couldn’t be happier we did. Now to make plans to return for Carnival!…

    PFH Fun Fact: Rio de Janeiro means River of January, it got its name because the city was first colonised by the Portuguese on 1st January 1502 and became the colonial capital of Brazil until it was moved to the city of Brasília in 1960.

    With that said, hopefully you mind is at ease about visiting and I we can move on to the good stuff, I know most of you are here just to look at the pictures for Instagram inspiration anyway! So, here are 8 of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, in my opinion:

    1. Cristo Redentor

    Standing tall at 98 metres (not including the pedestal which is 8 metres high) Cristo Redentor, or Christ the Redeemer in English is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. He stands atop the peak of Corcovado Mountain some 700 metres up looking down on the coast of Rio de Janeiro. 

    Construction started in 1922 and ended in 1931 and was created by Paul Landowski, built by Heitor da Silva Costa and Alb art Caquot and Gheorge Leonida sculpted the face.

    There are two ways to get up to the viewing platform and they are to drive up to the car park located in the Tijuca Forest where you can take a mini bus up to the top or you can get a train from the bottom of Corcovado Mountain in Cosme Velho. The latter is the best option because the train takes you all the way up whereas even if you arrived to the minibus early, it won’t head up until it’s full. Plus the train is electric so it’s the most responsible option.

    The train winds up through Tijuca Forest and every now and then the forest opens out to reveal spectacular views of the city.

    PFH Fun Fact: Cristo Redentor is listed as one of the new 7 wonders of the world.

    Price 

    The following ticket costs include the train and admission to Christ the Redeemer.

    R$82 per adult in the high season.

    R$67 per adult in the low season.

    R$26 per adult aged 60 years and over.

    R$52 per child aged 5-11 years old.

    Children aged 4 years and below have free entrance. 

    To find out when the high and low season are and to buy your tickets click here.

    Open times

    Every day from 8am – 7pm.

    2. Pão de Açúcar

    Translated into English, Sugar Loaf Mountain got its name from the Portuguese settlers who would use the mountain as a point of reference when entering the port. The mountain resembled the old sugar loaves of their time and was hence forth named Pão de Açúcar.

    To reach the 396m high summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain you need to take two cable cars up, stopping at the top of Morro da Urca to transfer over. At the top of Morro da Urca there is a small shopping centre that even has a Havaianas store, plus a few cafés.

    From the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain you will have 360° views of the city of Rio de Janeiro including Christ the Redeemer, Guanabara Bay and Copacabana beach.

    Pop-culture reference: the cable cars up to Pão de Açúcar feature in Moonraker (1979) in quite possibly one of the most ridiculous action scenes ever, where James Bond for some incomprehensible reason thinks that climbing out on top of the cable car as it swings some 300m above ground is the best option when their cable car breaks down…

    PFH Fun Fact: Both the first and second generation cable cars are on display including the one which Bond was messing about on in Moonraker (1979).

    Heads up, one of the leading supermarkets in Rio is also called Pão de Açúcar so don’t get confused!

    Price

    Buy your tickets online for the following 10% discount prices.

    R$104.40 per adult aged 21 – 60 years old.

    $52.20 per adult aged over 60 years old.

    R$52.20 per child and young adult aged 6 – 21 years old.

    Children aged 5 years and below have free entrance.

    All Brazilian and foreign students will receive half price tickets at $52.20 upon presentation of their student ID.

    Should the weather be less than desirable you will have a window of four days to use your ticket from the date it was booked for.

    Open times

    Open daily from 8am – 9pm.

    The ticket booth on the ground is open 8am – 7.50pm and the ticket booth on Morro da Urca is open 8.30am – 8.30pm.

    The first trip up to Morro da Urca leaves at 8.10am and the last one up leaves at 8pm.

    The first trip up to Sugar Loaf from Morro da Urca leaves at 8.20am and the last one leaves at 8.20pm.

    The last trip down to Morro da Urca from Sugar Loaf leaves at 8.40pm.

    The last trip down the ground from Morro da Urca leaves at 9pm.

    Departures are every 20 minutes or when full capacity is reached (65 passengers).

    3. Feira Livre da Glória

    Next to Mauritius, Brazil has some of the best street food I have ever eaten, and the best place to try it all in Rio de Janeiro is at the organic farmers market in Glória. It is only open for half a day on Sundays so it would be wise to head here first before continuing on your day, see number 4 for a recommendation on where to go after the farmers market.

    Whether you’re vegan, dairy free, gluten free or none of the aforementioned, there is something for you. With that said, if you have life-threatening allergies, I would advise you don’t take the risk.

    To find out exactly what you should be eating here take a look at my best Brazilian street food guide. It features savoury and sweet foods and both alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks.

    The market is cash only so make sure you get some out before you go. There are a couple of banks located along the shops opposite the market on R. da Glória.

    Price

    Free

    Open times

    Sunday: 8am – 2pm.

    Feira Livre da Glória is only open on Sundays.

    4. Feira Hippie de Ipanema 

    Feira Hippie de Ipanema is the flea market in Ipanema. Directly translated it means Ipanema hippie fair.

    Located in the park, Praça General Osório, it is the best open air market around for souvenirs and handmade local goods. The market is made up of three loops of stalls encompassing the fountain in the centre of the park with the local artists gathered in the centre.

    This is a craft market so you can expect handmade bracelets, wood carvings, paintings, bags, clothing, sculptures and more.

    This wonderful lady sells magnets and headpieces inspired by carnival. She is so sweet and loves her photo being taken. You must visit her, if not to take home your very own headpiece but to play dress up with her.

    The market is less than a 10 minute walk from Ipanema beach and surrounded by eateries. I would suggest visiting Feira Orgânica in Glória first so that you get the freshest food, and then getting an Uber or using the metro to get to Feira Hippie de Ipanema.

    Feira Hippie de Ipanema is cash only so come prepared. You can get money out of the ATM in Bradesco on R. Visc. de Pirajá. Also bring some reusable shopping bags to prevent using plastic ones.

    Price

    Free

    Open times

    Sunday: 7am – 7pm.

    Feira Hippie de Ipanema is only open on Sundays, however it has been open every Sunday since 1968, no matter the weather.

    5. Copacabana Beach

    With its 4km/2.5miles of white sand, mountainous backdrops encompassing the bay, colourful characters and endless vendors selling amazing street food and its iconic Portuguese tiled promenade, it’s no wonder that Copacabana Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world.

    Every year Copacabana Beach hosts millions to watch Rio’s New Year’s Eve fireworks, but on every other day of the year it hosts what feels like the same amount of people as they catch rays in the tiniest of swimsuits (all genders), kids football/soccer and frolic in the waves.

    Most of the high end hotels along the beach have their own staffed spots on the beach where you use their deckchairs and parasols and order from your hotel’s bar menu which will be brought out to you. If your hotel doesn’t have this option then you can rent deck chairs for the day or just lay out on your own towel.

    There will be multiple people coming around selling their wares from bikinis and sunglasses to caipirinhas and shrimp. If nothing takes your fancy they will leave you alone, don’t be alarmed by them. Their food will be a lot cheaper than your hotels so if you’re hungry they’re not the worst choice, but maybe avoid the shrimp.

    It will be crowded, that’s a given, unless you get there just after sunrise, but it’s worth it just so you can experience the vibrancy and passion for life.

    PFH Fun Fact: Copacabana Beach was one of the four locations used to host the 2016 Rio Olympic games.

    PFH Top Tip: Unfortunately Brazil hasn’t cracked down on their use of single plastics so you will see a lot of waste on the beach. There are designated cleaners but unfortunately they don’t get everything, do your part to help protect our oceans from the heaps of plastic cups and straws left behind every day and do a little beach clean when you visit. It won’t take long and you can incorporate it into a stroll along the beach. Thank you.

    6. Ipanema Beach

    It might be half the size of Copacabana at 2km/1.2miles but it’s by no means any less significant. Ipanema Beach became famous thanks to the song written by Antônio Carlos Jobim and Vinícius de Moraes, “Garota de Ipanema” or as known in English “The Girl from Ipanema” – you can listen to it along with many other great Brazilian songs that Michael compiled into the ultimate Rio de Janeiro inspired playlist here. You can find a statue of Antônio Carlos Jobim at the eastern end of the Portuguese tiled promenade which was erected as a tribute in honour of the 30th anniversary of his death.

    Ipanema Beach is very active, you’ll see many surfers and kite-surfers out at sea and people playing football/soccer and volleyball in the sand. Plus every Sunday, the road closest to the beach is closed to vehicles so that the  local residents and tourists can ride their bikes, skate and walk free on the open road. This also happens along Copacabana beach.

    Ipanema is also known to be one of the world’s best LGBT hangouts!

    Just like Copacabana, most hotels offer their own sun beds, or you can rent one or lay out your own towel.

    7. Escadaria Selarón

    Escadaria Selarón is a staircase located in both the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighbourhoods, that became a functioning art installation in 1990 when Chilean artist Jorge Selarón started covering them in tiles. He sourced the tiles from over 60 countries around the world and he worked on it consistently up until his death in 2013.

    Selarón claimed it was his tribute to Brazil which is why they are made up of the colours of Brazil: yellow, blue and green.

    215 steps lead up from  R. Joaquim Silva to Ladeira de Santa Teresa, and together they are covered in over 2000 tiles. The tiles are mostly coloured but many feature designs, patterns and even pop-culture references such as The Simpsons.

    Escadaria Selarón gets very busy during the day so to see it at its best, head there for 8am to avoid the crowds. To do this, I suggest getting an Uber from your hotel.

    If you’re taking photos, start at the bottom where its says “Escadaria Selarón, Rio de Janeiro” because when people start arriving, with them forms a queue to take photos here. The best photo spot on the staircase is towards the top where it splits and there is a big Brazilian flag mosaic. If you do visit early, keep in mind that this is a residential area so try to be respectfully quiet.

    8. Havaianas

    So this one is the odd one out, you’re right. Everything on here is an experience from eating to visiting landmarks but how could I leave out shopping for a pair of the most iconic flip-flops in the world in the country they originated in?

    There are Havaianas stores located ALL OVER Rio, like I mentioned earlier, there’s even one located at the top of the first cable car on the way up to Sugar Loaf Mountain.

    You won’t find a better selection of flip-flops than in a Havaianas store. There’s glittery, plain, kids, adults, skinny, wide, patterned and you can get them in just about every colour under the rainbow. The prints even vary from their own colourful designs to branded designs from the likes of Disney. What’s better is the price is insanely good! I picked up a pair of these for my friend’s little girl for just £4 as opposed to the £18 they’re selling for in the UK. The price goes up depending on the design you go for but they are significantly cheaper than the UK and US and a great idea for gifts to take back home.

    Open

    The Havaianas stores in Copacabana are open from 9am – 8pm on weekdays and 9am – 6pm on weekends.

    There you have it, 8 of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro that covers shopping, eating and visiting the most iconic landmarks in the city which just so happen to offer incredible views. When visiting Rio be sensible but please do it with an open heart. These are all popular tourist destinations so you won’t be alone. They are all safe to visit, provided you’re not hanging around in the middle of the night. When going to places that have a bad reputation for safety, please just be smart. Here are my tips for travelling somewhere you’re unsure of:


    • Be aware of your surroundings



    • If you’re going somewhere less affluent, don’t flash around expensive items



    • Don’t make it obvious when you’re lost or looking at a map


    If you want to learn more about Brazil and haven’t already, take a look at my Best Brazilian street food guide and my PFH Rio de Janeiro mix tape playlist.

    Aloha, Gabriella

    Pin this post




    .

    Disclaimer: All the ticket prices were correct at the time this blog post was published.

  • The ultimate Christmas gift guide for travellers 2019

    The ultimate Christmas gift guide for travellers 2019

    It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  Whether you’re an organised traveller or not, here’s your chance to be an organised Christmas shopper with my ultimate Christmas gift guide!

    I’ve picked out over 25 useful, thoughtful and sustainable gift ideas that I personally love, many of which I never travel without! I’ve organised them into price categories so you can find something to fit your budget from stocking fillers to their main present.

    £10 and under

    Solid shampoo and conditioner 

    These have to be the best responsible stocking fillers for all travellers who never want to be caught without shower toiletries but also for the traveller who cares greatly for the environment and is doing their best to reduce their plastic wastage. 

    Solid shampoo and conditioner can last up to three times longer than a bottle of shampoo and there’s no bottle to throw away afterwards. They’re one of the easiest ways to save the world!

     

    Maison du Savon de Marseille

    To go along with the solid shampoo and conditioner bar, throw in a bar of soap too so that your responsible traveller can wash their body as well as their hair! Again it’s packaging-free and means they will never be without soap, wherever their travels may take them.

    Maison du Savon de Marseille soap can also be used to wash their clothes on the go too, so combine it with a portable washing line and you’ll also be giving them the gift of saved money. 

    Memory foam travel pillow

    There are very few gifts better than the gift of sleep. 

    This is my favourite style of travel pillow because it’s the most supportive and moulds to my head, neck and shoulders. This one in particular has a removable cover so it can be washed. As it’s memory foam, it compresses down with the risk of popping and it squeezes into even the most full of suitcases. The popper fastening is particularly helpful for keeping the pillow in place and it means it can be fastened to a bag or suitcase. 

    To read more and compare different types of travel pillows check out a post I wrote in 2018, Travel pillows – who you should be sleeping with.

    Anatomicals

    On the topic of sleep, to accompany the sleeping pillow above, Anatomicals have some fun tongue-in-cheek sleep masks to help them shut the world out and make sure they catch Z’s on their travels. 

    Anatomicals has a huge range of beauty products that will excite any traveller from pampering to sleep aid. 

    For ideas on what products to get, take a look at How to recover from jet lag with Anatomicals and How to survive the city heat in summer with Anatomicals.

    One of my favourite products of theirs is the lavender sleep spray, I always travel with it in my hand luggage to spray on my travel pillow before I nod off.

    Extra long USB charging cord

    You never know where the USB port or plug is going to be in a room and you cannot depend on it always being by the bed so gift them with an extra long charging cable so they can still message you about their travels from bed whilst their phone charges. It doesn’t seem like that big of a deal now but it will make a big difference to them when they realise they don’t have to sit on the floor with their phone!

     

    Bamboo straws

    Did you know that it takes up to 200 years for a plastic straw to decompose and yet 8.5 billion of them are used annually? Yes, that is crazy!

    Any reusable straw is better than a plastic one but I particularly favour a bamboo one because they are naturally sourced and will decompose when they reach the end of their life.

    I particularly like using The Humble Co. ones because they also provide dental care for children in need all over our planet via their Humble Smile Foundation, and you can help too as it is funded directly by proceeds from every product sold.

    Cutlery

    Travelling with a reusable cutlery set such as this camping KFS set with prevent the usage of plastic cutlery so not only are they good for the environment but it means you or whoever you buy these for will never be without. They can use them to make and eat food on the go from a park bench to the hotel room.

    Wax sandwich wraps

    Up until last year I was using plastic sandwich bags until I realised there’s a much more cost effective and responsible option: wax sandwich wraps. They come in both bees wax and vegan plant wax options and always in a pattern!

    These wraps mean lunch can be packed up on the go, saving a significant amount of money from eating out every day.

     

    Collapsible bowls

    Much like the wax sandwich wraps above, these silicone bowls will save travellers money by eating in. If we haven’t found accommodation with breakfast included I eat cereal from my bowl and salads for lunch and/or dinner.

    For more ideas on how you or your fellow travellers can save money by not eating out check out 6 items for making food in your hotel room.

     

    Dry bag

    Dry bags will either keep your items inside dry or they will prevent wet items from getting anything else wet. We travel with our dry bags on every trip because you never know when you’ll have something wet that you don’t want to pack with everything else. For example: wet swimwear or clothes you’ve washed and haven’t dried yet. We also use them on active trips where we’re hiking or on a boat because it keeps the contents dry.

    £10 – £25

    Dock & Bay towel

    A Dock & Bay towel will put a smile on anyone’s face because they come in a wide variety of colours and patterns and they’re compact, super absorbent, sand proof and quick dry.

    It’s not only towels that you can buy from Dock & Bay though, you can also buy one of their ponchos for both kids and adults, hair wraps, cooling towels or a pair of swim shorts. 

    You could even go the extra mile and get a towel personalised!

     

    A 7 year pen

    A pen is necessary for filling out immigration cards to making notes on where to go and what to do. So get them one that will last so they don’t have to worry about it running out when they need it most, at least not for seven years. I’m on year five of mine and it’s still going strong!

     

    Packing cubes

    Packing cubes are ideal either for the most organised packer or the ones that need help getting themselves together. They not only organise clothing so it’s easier to find but they also compress so packing becomes easier too. I have seven in varying sizes and I couldn’t imagine packing without them. 

     

    Universal travel adapter

    Make sure they are always prepared with a universal travel adapter. It will not only save them money from having to buy multiple adapters but it also means they have less bulk to travel with. I travel with two and I’ve never needed more.

     

    Polū Bamboo Fibre Reusable Coffee Cup

    A reusable coffee cup is the ideal gift for a person always on the go. Not only can they use it for hot drinks but also to make cuppa soups and pasta packets on their travels. 

    Like many things on this list it’s also great for the environment, especially a Polū cup as they are made from biodegrade bamboo fibres and recycle silicone. They also come in patterns inspired by Hawaii and 50p from each purchase goes to AccesSurf, a Honolulu based non-profit charity organisation that provides water-based programmes, services, and events for people with disabilities.

    To get a 10% discount on any Polū coffee cup click here and use code “POSTCARDSFROMHAWAII”.

     

    Travel hairdryer with diffuser

    This one is for my curly haired PFH Ohana. I got so fed up of trying to style my hair with hotel hairdryers that didn’t have a diffuser (which was about 99.9% of them) that I decided to purchase a travel hairdryer with a diffuser so I would never be disappointed again. The con is that it’s one more thing I have to travel with, but being able to style my hair without frizz or heat damage is worth it every time, plus it folds up and has worldwide dual voltage. 

     

    Flat Lay makeup bag

    Flat Lay Co. was one of the first brands I ever worked with and since receiving my first one with them I have gone on to buy their bags as gifts for friends and family and I have bought myself another two so I have one for makeup, toiletries and a mini one for my carry-on.

    These genius bags are increasing in popularity and are now available on ASOS, Amazon and both online and in-store from Oliver Bonas. To read one of my most popular blog posts which just happens to be about why you need a Flat Lay Co. makeup bag, take a look at Why the Flat Lay Co.’s makeup bag should be your go-to.

     

    xouxou phone necklace

    My xouxou phone necklace is one of the best items I have ever been gifted, and had I not been sent one I would have purchased one without a doubt! 

    Wearing my phone across my body has made life with it so much easier. I never have to fumble for it in my bag and it’s easily accessible for the time, checking notifications or taking photos. Plus as I’m wearing it I’m never scared of losing it or dropping it.

    They come in varying colours and either with the case and strap connected or sold individually.

     

    Wanderful: The Modern Bohemian’s Guide to Travelling in Style by Andi Eaton

    I’m a little bias because this book was written by one of my dear friends, Andi Eaton. It is not only an informative read about what to do and where to go across the USA with multiple road trip ideas, it’s also a visual masterpiece featuring a style guide for almost everywhere in the States.

     

    Saalt menstrual cup 

    It was Christmas 2016, I was shopping in Boots where I picked up a few bits from Soap & Glory and tampons. We were at the till when without thinking Michael said he would get it as an early Christmas present. To this day he claims he didn’t see the tampons, but let me tell you, his face went redder than the tampons ever did when both the sales assistant and I snapped back about tampons being a Christmas present! 

    Fast forward three years to a more environmentally conscious and empowering time and I would happily receive/give a menstrual cup for Christmas! I can safely say whoever you give it to will understand and appreciate its positive impact on their body, wallet and the environment, and not see it as an insult.

    To read more about why a Saalt menstrual cup is ideal for travellers read Travelling on your period with a Saalt menstrual cup.

     

    A map with pins

    There aren’t many joys of returning home after travels after being back with friends, family and your own bed, but adding a pin to your map from where you’ve just been is one of them! 

    We bought our own map and put it on an old pinboard but this one from Amazon comes with the pins and board so you don’t have to worry about finding your own. If you want to, there’s heaps available on Amazon too, and don’t forget the pins!

    £25 – £50

    4ocean

    4ocean is an ocean-first business dedicated to ending the ocean plastic crisis. They clean the ocean and coastlines while working to stop the inflow of plastic by changing consumption habits. – 4ocean.

    By purchasing one of their bracelets in collaboration with a monthly cause from land to sea, you will be pulling a pound of rubbish from the ocean, making it a safer place for everyone. 

    They just recently launched a collection of sustainable swaps which includes YETI coffee cups and ramblers, Chicobag folding shopping bags and FinalStraw collapsible straws, all in collaboration with 4ocean and what’s better is that with each purchase a pound of rubbish is pulled from the ocean, just like with all of their bracelets.

    They also dropped a line of T-shirts which also pull a pound of rubbish when purchased.

    Gifting any of these products for Christmas will not only make the receiver happy but also work wonders for the environment and makes you an awesome person!

    To read more about 4ocean and all the amazing things they do, click here.

     

    Dopper water bottle

    Of course any kind of reusable water bottle is better than a single use plastic one – they prevent waste, save money and reduce the health risk that comes from drinking out of plastic water bottles – but I recently made the switch from my Swell bottle to a Dopper one because of the following reasons:


    • The seals on both of my Swell bottles broke so they leaked so I wanted to swap



    • They have thermal bottles that stay hot for 9 hours and cold for 24



    • They are a cup and bottle in one



    • Dopper has launched multiple initiatives around the world to provide clean water to communities in need, and they offer educational programmes to raise awareness of plastic pollution


    By using a reusable water bottle, it will save our planet from 40 plastic bottles a year!

     

    £50 – £100

    World Tour: Vintage Hotel Labels from the collection of Gaston-Louis Vuitton by Francisca Mattéoli

    I bought Michael this book around the time that I published Get creative with travel stickers and TouchNote because he is obsessed with travel stickers and it documents part of Gaston-Louis Vuitton’s incredible collection. Not only does it come fully gift wrapped in complete Louis Vuitton glory, but it also comes with a collection of actual travel stickers and beautiful postcards.

    Once he got over the strop he threw when I pretended I had bought myself another Louis Vuitton handbag with his AMEX, he opened it and now claims that it’s his favourite book.

    This is the ideal gift that’s a whole lot of extra for the creative traveller in your life.

    TouchNote premium membership 

    Though it’s not something they can physically unwrap, it is one of the most creative and touching (pun completely intended) gifts you can give someone, ignoring the fact that it’s a little bit selfish too. A year long premium membership with TouchNote not only gives them access to a bunch of perks such as stickers, filters and borders but it also gives them an allowance of credits to spend on making cards that they can send their loved ones (hopefully that includes you otherwise I fully expect them to be on the naughty list next year) from their travels all around the world.

    To read more about TouchNote and their premium memberships take a look at Postcards from the world with TouchNote and Get creative with travel stickers and TouchNote or you can watch the video below:

     

    Fjällräven Kånken Backpack

    For Michael’s birthday I upgraded him from his classic Fjällräven backpack to a 15” laptop one as he is the one carrying around our camera equipment, water bottles and one of our laptops so we wanted one that could fit it all comfortably and with as little strain on his back as possible. 

    The Kånken backpack was originally developed for school children in 1978 as back problems amongst the children was becoming a problem. The bag was designed to distribute weight more effectively with comfortable straps. To read more about the founder of Fjällräven, Åke Nordin, and his pioneering products, click here.

    Not only are the Kånken backpacks comfortable, but they also pack flat when empty and are durable.

     

    LaCie 2 TB external hard drive

    Michael chose this LaCie external hard drive because it’s shock, drop and crush resistant and considering it holds all of our photos (outside of Google Drive) we need something sturdy! This is the first place our photos go before they get uploaded to Google Drive or Lightroom so we needed something durable with a lot of storage space.

    Make sure the traveller you are buying for is always backed up with this hard drive.

     

    £100 and above

    Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones

    Without a doubt one of the best presents I have ever received were my silver Bose noise cancelling headphones. I can’t tell you how much better my sleep is whilst I’m up in the air now that every insufferable sound from crying to snoring is drowned out. Even the general white noise of the aircraft is reduced, plus they come with an adapter so you can use them with the in-flight entertainment. 

    Thanks to their padded ear pieces and expandable headband they are incredibly comfortable and even suit those who require hearing aids.

    PFH Top Tip: Wait until Cyber week on Amazon to see if they get discounted. I by no means know if they will, but they always have an offer on electronics so just wait to see before you buy them.

     

    Away: the Everywhere Bag

    I have been through trial and error with many, MANY carry-on bags. With many breakages, accidental spillages of the contents and lack of security or compartmental pockets I was pretty much giving up hope until last winter I was wandering through Covent Garden and came across the Away store. On display was their Everywhere Bag in a limited edition pink nylon. I fell in love faster than I did with Michael (only just though, we were 18 after all).

    With 13 compartmentalised pockets including a space for your shoes, phone, laptop and even umbrella it is THE ultimate travel bag. I honestly couldn’t recommend it more! The price is steep so I expect the person you buy it for to be a very special one to you, or if it’s for you, to be from someone who owes you big time, or loves you a lot, whatever. The link below is for my bag in leather, as I mentioned my exact nylon one was limited edition but I have to say the nylon one is so sturdy, I’ve been on countless trips with it and it’s yet to show any wear-and-tear. Another perk to the nylon is that it’s £130 cheaper than the leather! I don’t want to run on much longer, but it really is the best bag I have ever travelled with.

    .

    If you want further ideas, check out my 2018 Ultimate Christmas gift guide for travellers and Sustainable swaps for travellers.

    I wish you the best of luck with your Christmas shopping this year and hope this helps you find the perfect gift for the traveller in your life, or even better, I hope this inspires your own wish list!

    Mele Kalikimaka, Gabriella

    Pin this post




    .

    Disclaimer: Products from Dopper, 4ocean, Polū, Dock & Bay, Saalt, xouxou, The Flat lay Co. and The Humble Co. have been gifted and as an Amazon and Polū Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, but please know that I completely support and believe in these companies and products. I use all of these products myself and have been purchasing them long before they were gifted.

  • Sustainable swaps for travellers

    Sustainable swaps for travellers

    “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it” – Robert Swan.

    More than ever, the time has come to take a stand against plastic pollution from land to sea. 8 million tons (this number IS shocking, you’re right) of plastic pollution enters our oceans every year causing 100,000 marine animals deaths each year.

    With 40% of the plastic produced every year being single-use plastics, we all need to take responsibility and make as many sustainable swaps as possible to save our planet from irrevocable damage. The problem lies in idly going through life consuming excessive amounts of plastic which have sustainable and reusable alternatives, then incorrectly disposing it, without reusing or recycling, and without any awareness of the harm caused. 

    In this blog post I am focussing specifically on the environmentally-conscious swaps we travellers can make to make the world a better place. It’s no secret that the impact travel has on the environment is significant, so along with offsetting your travel I am sharing the 25 sustainable swaps I have made specifically on my travels, so that we can reduce our wasteful impact around the world:

     

    Toiletries

    The area you can make the biggest reduction of single-use items whilst travelling is with your toiletries. Toiletries are one of the leading contributors to throw-away items that build up in landfills, our oceans and even on the street! I can’t tell you how many strange places I’ve seen plastic ear buds/Q-tips in peculiar places. By making these simple and sustainable swaps you will be doing more for our planet than you could ever realise:

    Bamboo toothbrush

    Did you know that every plastic toothbrush that has ever been made since their invention in the 30s still exists? Why? Because each plastic toothbrush takes over 400 years to decompose and with each person using approximately 300 toothbrushes in a lifetime, well it’s a lot to take in right? So with those figures in mind, it’s about time we started using an alternative. Bamboo toothbrushes are eco-friendly, made from natural fibres and will decompose after use. The Humble Co. was founded in 2013 by dentist Noel Abdayem. He set out to create products that are not only good for us but are kind to our planet too. What’s even more admirable about The Humble Co. is that they also provide dental care for children in need all over our planet via their Humble Smile Foundation, and you can help too as it is funded directly by proceeds from every product sold.

    As well as the product being sustainable, the packaging is too. The boxes are 100% recyclable and the inside wrapper is compostable.

    Chewing gum

    Sticking (pun not intended but a happy coincidence nevertheless) with The Humble Co. let’s take a look at their chewing gum. It took me longer than I care to admit to realise that if my body can’t digest gum than neither can the planet… Most chewing gum is made from polymers which are synthetic plastics (complicated science stuff, stick with me here) that do not biodegrade and will therefore forever exist on our planet. The Humble Co. however, make a natural alternative made from chicle, a natural gum base from the Sapodilla tree, that doesn’t contain any artificial flavours or sugar, and since the company was founded by a dentist you can trust that it’s good for your teeth!

    Why just stop at mint either, their natural chewing gum comes in lemon, liquorice and tropical fruits too!

    Dental floss

    Amongst many products, some of which are listed above, The Humble Co. also make dental floss. Over 70 million plastic dental floss containers are discarded every year so their solution was to make the packaging 100% recyclable, so it’s simply a cardboard box that does the exact same job with no risk to the environment.

    Bonus: The Humble Co. products are all vegan!

    Bar of soap for hands and body

    It’s time to stop using mini toiletries. As cute as it is to see mini versions of the products we know and love, they aren’t worth the damage they are doing to our environment. Travelling with solid toiletries means that not only will you always be prepared but by using your own packaging-free products you are eliminating the need for single-use mini toiletries all around the world.

    I use Maison du Savon de Marseille bars of soap for three main reasons:


    1. They are sold without packaging



    2. They smell amazing and have a HUGE variety of scents



    3. They are made with shea butter which means they hydrate your skin as well as cleaning it and they last twice as long as any other soap


    Plus you can pick up a reusable tin to store it in when you travel.

     

    Another solid (pun intended) favourite of mine is from Anatomicals because they smell incredible!

    Solid shampoo and conditioner

    Just like a bar of soap (above), solid shampoo and conditioner bars will prevent the use of plastic bottles, you will always be prepared and they last up to three times longer than a regular bottle.

    I personally use, love and recommend LUSH. They have a significant variety of both shampoo and conditioner bars and sell reusable tins for storage and travel.

    Magic cloth makeup remover

    Making the switch to magic cloths to remove my makeup last year was one of the best decisions I have ever made. These cloths completely eliminate the need for any bottled makeup remover, all you need is the cloth and water! 

    Simply wet the cloth and wipe away your makeup; its ultra soft woven fabric will remove all types of makeup, even waterproof. To clean your cloth simply wash it in warm water with soap and hang it out to dry. It is the most natural and gentle way to remove makeup without any risk of irritation from chemicals.

    Zero packaging toiletries

    Where possible, make a switch to zero packaging toiletries such as solids like soap, cleanser, shampoo, etc.

    On the days where I wear a little more makeup than usual, I like to use a solid cleanser to clear my pores of anything gross. I simply rub a little into my hands, massage in into my face and wipe it away with a reusable cotton pad (see next) and warm water before using a responsibly packaged moisturiser (see two below). My current solid cleanser is “Like a Virgin” from LUSH. Its vegan formula cleanses, brightens and tones the skin, plus it smells exactly like fresh Sicilian lemons.

     

    Cotton pads

    To use those packaging free/solid toiletries, purchase some reusable cotton pads, therefore eliminating the need for single-use ones. These will not only save you money but they will also save the environment. To clean them, just pop them in a mesh bag (it saves you from having to fish them out between your socks and pants) and into the washing machine.

     

    Recycled packaging toiletries

    Not all toiletries can come packaging free otherwise we’d spend an awkward journey home trying not to spill liquids from our hands. Products such as moisturisers, lotions, scrubs etc can be purchased from stores such as LUSH who use recycled packaging. Plus what’s even better about LUSH is that if you return five of their pots (clean) they will repurpose them and you will receive a free face mask!

    I only use facial moisturisers from LUSH for this reason and highly recommend their Vanishing Cream. Its combination of lavender and rose water absorbs immediately into the skin without any greasy residue, leaving your skin feeling soft and nourished. I’ll confess it’s not cheap but a little goes a long way and it’s worth the price to save the environment.

    Mini travel bottles

    If for your own reasons you still need/want to use products that come is plastic packaging (I’m not judging, the only products I have found that tame my frizzy locks unfortunately are packaged in plastic) then I suggest you buy the biggest bottle you can so that it lasts longer, and with that fill smaller reusable travel bottles.

     

    Natural deodorant

    Far too many deodorants come in single-use plastic bottles so consider swapping to one with more responsible packaging that also has natural ingredients so it’s better for both your body and the planet.

    I am currently using the Lavender & Aloe Vera spray on deodorant from Neal’s Yard because it is made entirely from natural ingredients and the bottle can be repurposed. If you do decide to dispose of the bottle then you can recycle both the glass and paper label and if you take the plastic pump into a Neal’s Yard store, they will recycle it for you.

    Menstrual cup

    For any person who has a period, swapping from tampons and single-use pads to a reusable menstrual cup is one of the best decisions you can make for the planet, your body and your purse! I can’t express how much better my life is now that I have made this swap or how empowered I feel to be bleeding so responsibly every time my period comes around, but to get an idea take a look at Travelling on your period with a Saalt menstrual cup, a blog post I wrote all about exactly why menstruating individuals should switch to a menstrual cup!

    If for some reason you don’t want to read my very informative blog post (shame on you, I put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into that…) then here are some figures to glance at:


    • Over 4.3 billion menstrual hygiene products are thrown away every year in the UK and 20 billion pounds in the USA



    • It takes longer than the lifetime of the user for just one to decompose



    • One cup prevents approximately 3000 tampons from ending up in landfills



    • One cup lasts 10 years and will save an average of £1,150 or $1,500


    Saalt are partnered with Her International, an organisation dedicated to keeping girls in school when they get their periods. With every cup sold, a portion of the profits go to Her International, giving girls the opportunity and means to stay in school during their period so they can receive the education they deserve which will lead to a better quality of life.

    If you want to purchase your new Saalt menstrual cup from their website, use “POSTCARDS10” for a 10% discount on your order!

    Menstrual pads

    If something that needs inserting isn’t your thing just yet (no pressure, you do you boo) then make the switch from single-use menstrual pads to reusable cotton menstrual pads. They are made from natural charcoal bamboo fibres and are incredibly absorbent. To clean them you simply pop them in the washing machine with a dark load.

    I currently use High Oh’s reusable pads during evenings where I don’t fancy inserting my cup – you know the really lazy one where you just lay in bed binge eating with Netflix.

    Razor

    According to a recent report by Statista, 163 million consumers in the United States and 5.5 million in Great Britain used disposable razors in 2018, and as they aren’t usually recyclable you can bet they’re poisoning our earth and making their way into our ocean.

    There are two ways around this and they are to switch to a reusable razor whereby you are only replacing the head rather than the whole body and the other is to use a safety razor where you only need to replace the blades.

    I am currently using a Flamingo reusable razor whereby I remove the head only but I do intend to switch to a safety razor.

    Have you ever noticed how disposable razors are mostly targeted at women and come in all shades of pink but men’s razors are mostly reusable? What’s up with that? Flamingo have recently been taking massive stands against the stigma of female hair removal from the design of the razor to embracing your body hair.

    Shower cap

    As most disposable shower caps are made from a PVC-based material, they are not recyclable. Instead of using the disposable ones in hotels rooms, purchase a reusable one so that it has a much longer life.

    Mine is from Boots but I recommend you get one online with a fun pattern!

    Cotton ear buds & Q-tips

    In May 2019 plastic stemmed cotton buds were finally banned in England with all retailers required to make the switch to compostable paper, wood or bamboo stems before April 2020. Unfortunately this isn’t the case for the rest of the world, so you cannot trust that your hotel or the drug stores/chemists where you travel to will stock compostable ear buds/Q-tips, so travel with your own ones. 

    In the UK you will find compostable ones everywhere from chemists to supermarkets. I even saw The Humble Co.’s bamboo ones being sold in Oliver Bonas the other day.

     

    Towels

    One of the biggest areas that hotels produce waste is water. Let alone the plumbing in every room, the daily washing of towels and linens produces a significant amount of water waste. Two ways you can avoid adding to this whilst travelling is to leave a note for housekeeping asking that they do not change your towels and sheets during your stay, and then use your own towel. Have you noticed that despite the signs in almost every room claiming the hotel’s green initiative, and telling you that if you fold your towels they won’t wash them to save water wastage, for some reason your towel always disappears off the hook and a fresh folded set is on the rack? Yeah, not cool!

    Dock and Bay’s towels are compact, quick dry and sand resistant, all of their packaging is 100% biodegradable and they have an eco collection which features towels made from 30% recycled materials. Plus they come in all sorts of cute colours and designs all named after popular travel destinations! They also have hair wraps which save you from needing two towels if you have longer hair.

    Food

    The second best way to reduce your plastic waste whilst travelling is to travel with reusable food items that prevent single-use plastics such as water bottles and coffee cups from being consumed excessively. By using a reusable water bottle you will be saving the planet from 40 plastic bottles PER YEAR! Here are few ways you can save the planet and also money by not having to eat out all the time:

    Cutlery

    Whether it’s bamboo or metal, start travelling with a set of cutlery to prevent the need to use plastic cutlery. This kit will also prove to be very helpful in hotel rooms if you want to rustle up a bite to eat.

    I bought mine as a camping KFS set from Mountain Warehouse for £4.99. I chose metal because Michael (my partner) has a habit of snapping our bamboo straws and I wanted our cutlery to be sturdy and last as long as possible. 

    We picked up this little wrap for them on a market in Brazil but they’re super easy to make if you want to do it yourself. If not, this specific KFS set from Mountain Warehouse clicks together so you won’t have stray cutlery in your bag.

    Bamboo straws

    Throwing it back to The Humble Co. they also make bamboo straws to accompany their many other bamboo alternatives. With over 8.5 billion plastic straws used annually (yes, you read that correctly), it is imperative that for the sake of our planet, and all the creatures living on both land and sea, we make the swap to a responsible choice. The most sustainable being bamboo because it can be reused (unlike paper) and will decompose naturally (unlike glass and metal). Of course paper, metal and glass are all 100% better alternatives to plastic. 

    The Humble Co’s. bamboo straws come with a cleaner as well as a clean conscience.

    Water bottle

    One of the best investments an environmentally conscious, actually ANY, traveller can make is a reusable water bottle. We all need to stay hydrated, especially when we’re out and about exploring, hiking, snorkelling etc. So to prevent the need for endless plastic bottles make the switch to a reusable one. By using a reusable water bottle, you will save our planet from 40 plastic bottles a year!

    I used to recommend S’well bottles but after my second one I have come to learn the rubber seal isn’t reliable causing the bottles to leak. So I recently switched to Dopper, a company based in the Netherlands whose mission is to empower people to choose reusable over single-use water bottles to protect our world’s water resources.

    Reasons why I love Dopper: 


    • Every purchase helps to fight to keep our oceans clean



    • The company has launched multiple initiatives around the world to provide clean water to communities in need, and they offer educational programmes to raise awareness of plastic pollution



    • The bottles come in a variety of materials and colours



    • The bottles are sustainably made



    • The bottles are a bottle and cup in one



    • They have thermal bottles that stay hot for 9 hours and cold for 24


    You will be able to fill up your water bottle in pretty much any restaurant or café and many public places such as airports, shopping malls and parks have water fountains. A bottle such as Dopper’s is particularly brilliant for preventing plastic usage on flights as you can fill your water bottle in the airport prior to your flight and if you fancy any other drink, you can unscrew your cup and use that instead of a plastic one.

    Coffee cup

    Along with a water bottle, a reusable coffee cup is one the the best sustainable swaps you can make for the environment. Approximately 16 billion disposable coffee cups are used each year, many of which aren’t recycled.

    My current coffee cup is from Polū, a company founded by two Aussie eco-warriors whose mission is to eliminate single-use products and promote Zero Waste living. Their bamboo fibre coffee cups are ethically sourced and completely compostable, whilst their silicone sleeve and lid are both recyclable. 

    What’s better is that with every purchase of a Polū cup, 50p is donated to AccesSurf, a Honolulu based non-profit charity organisation that provides water-based programmes, services, and events for people with disabilities.

    In addition to saving the planet from an abundance of single-use cups, another perk of using a reusable coffee cup is that most leading coffee shops offer a discount when you present your cup. In England for example you can save 25p in Costa and Starbucks and a whopping 50p in Pret.

    If you want to buy your very own compostable Polū coffee cup, saving both the planet and helping AccesSurf bring joy to people with disabilities in Honolulu then click here to make your purchase, and use “POSTCARDSFROMHAWAII” for 10% off your purchase!

    Sandwich wraps

    One of the best ways to save money when travelling often is to pack up your own food for the day instead of having to constantly buy meals out. To read more about this check out my blog post, 6 items for making food in your hotel room.

    To prevent using plastic wrap or sandwich bags, purchase a couple of wax wraps, made with either bees wax or plant resin for vegans. Their texture means you can easily fold them around your food and wipe them clean between each use. They’re also great for taking home any solid leftovers should you choose to eat out. You can also get a tin so you can make up and eat salads, pasta etc. on the go or you can take them to eateries to get your food to go packaging free.

    Shopping

    The third biggest area that we travellers can reduce our wasteful impact on the planet is with shopping. I know we’re not always prancing around on the beach in swimwear and buying handmade treasures from local markets, but when we do, when can do it responsibly. Here’s how:

    Shopping bags

    Plastic shopping bags have a lifetime of mere minutes to hours and yet they can take up to 1,000 years to decompose! We have long outgrown the need for plastic shopping bags with reusable alternatives for every thing we have ever used them for. Years ago I used to travel with plastic bags for the following uses:

    Use: Packing clothes in to keep them organised.

    Replacement: Reusable packing cubes.

    Use: Storing my shoes to protect anything in my suitcase from getting marked or dirty.

    Replacement: Reusable waterproof shoe bags.

    Use: Shopping, I would get new plastic bags every time I went shopping for souvenirs etc.

    Replacement: Reusable shopping bags.

    There really isn’t a need for plastic shopping bags anymore. Just keep a couple of reusable bags on you and you’ll never be caught out. You can buy foldable ones from anywhere online to your local supermarket, and virtually every shop selling food or clothes will have a reusable bag you can purchase should you ever be caught out.

    If you have self catered accommodations when you travel and require a supermarket shop, try to buy products that either have zero packaging or recycled packaging. I realise this depends on the place you shop but it’s good to keep it in mind.

    Clothing that is made from recycled bottles and organic cotton

    Many leading brands such as ASOS and H&M have started to get onboard with making garments from recycled bottles and organic cotton. 

    Clothes made from recycled bottles repurpose something single-use into something that can last you for years to come and make you feel good about it every time you wear it. Although it doesn’t sound comfortable you would never be able to tell that it’s made from plastic. The most common garments you will find made from plastic bottles is swimwear, so next time you need some new swimmers whether it’s for doing laps or posing for the ‘gram, consider something that not only looks great on you, but is also doing great things for the environment.

    For women I recommend looking at ASOS because they offer a full range of responsibly recycled swimsuits and bikinis for maternity, tall, petite and regular. 

    For men I recommend looking at Dock & Bay. Their shorts are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles with 6 plastic bottles in every pair! I bought Michael a pair for his birthday last year (before I started working with them) and he loves them because they’re responsible, stylish and quick dry!

    Second hand clothing

    Consider buying your clothes from a second hand store either thrifted or vintage. I’ll be honest, I used to be so grossed out by this and it has taken me up until this year to actually start doing it and let me tell you, few things overjoy me as much as finding a bargain!

    . 

    There you have it, 25 sustainable swaps that we travellers can make to reduce our wasteful impact on the environment. Of course, these don’t just apply to travellers, please share this blog post with everyone you know who has a passion for saving the world and anyone who needs to make a start. 

    For more ideas on living sustainably to help protect our planet I strongly suggest purchasing “How to save the world for free” by Natalie Fee. This witty book offers advice on how to reduce your wasteful impact on our planet from food to sex (you bet sex was the first section I read!). There’s even a section on travel.

     

    Aloha, Gabriella

    Pin this post




  • 10 best Instagram spots in New York City, USA

    10 best Instagram spots in New York City, USA

    Putting together just 10 Insta-worthy spots in New York City seems nearly impossible, because every turn in this city presents a new spectacle; whether it’s a world famous landmark, art installation, film location or simple street corner, New York will inspire you with every step.

    Of course eventually, after much consideration, I have put together 10 places that I think will make for the best shots of the city, but I urge you to check out my NYC travel guide, New York City, USA itinerary, to see what else you can do to experience New York to the max.

    Tips for shooting

    Unlike London (10 most Instagrammable places in London, England), to get the very best shots in New York City, you must arrive early. Which basically means like the city, you will never sleep between getting amazing photos at dawn and living that cosmopolitan life in rooftop bars at dusk. With 62.8 million* people visiting NYC in 2017, if you want the shot you’re going to have some competition without an early start. Having places like the steps of The Met that have graced celeb royalty or Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise to yourself is entirely worth the early alarm though.

    Remember to always experience the place you’re at when you’re taking photos. I understand the urge to just hit up one place after the other – I have been there myself – but I urge you to pause after getting your shots and take the time to explore. Get lost in Central Park, pay your respects at the 9/11 memorial and dare to have your fortune told by The Zoltar at Coney Island. I chose each of these places because they all have more than a photo opportunity on offer, so make sure you don’t pass up on that.

    With that said, here are the 10 best Instagram spots in New York City, USA:

    1. Brooklyn Bridge

    Brooklyn Bridge was the number one place that I wanted to get a photo and despite the weather being moody as storm clouds gathered over Manhattan, it did not disappoint. Rising early, and I mean super early for this one – seriously like be there for sunrise – was absolutely worth it here. At the crack of dawn, you will virtually have the bridge to yourself. Even though it’s just for a moment because the cyclists and runners will start coming across about 20mins after, for those 20mins you get to watch the city emerge from the dark ready to take on the day, and if you’re lucky you might get a few bands of peach across the sky as the sun comes up.

    Admire the view from your pose of choice though because these fleeting minutes are your ultimate time to shoot, especially if you want a solo shot down the centre of the bridge’s walkway. Anytime after 7am and you’re really stuffed for that one.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Brooklyn Bridge Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    If you want to hop up on the side, please do it just before the arches, where the side begins to raise (look at my first photo for reference) it’s wider and far less risky.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Brooklyn Bridge Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    To find out the best spot for getting onto Brooklyn Bridge check out New York City, USA itinerary – oh yeah, I’m sneaky like that!

    When you’re done on the bridge, continue walking across it towards Brooklyn to get to the second Instagrammable place on this list.

    2. Manhattan bridge view from DUMBO

    When you reach the far end of the bridge in Brooklyn, keep an eye out for the exit on the left that says “Dumbo”. Once you’re at street level again, turn left out of the tiny dark exit/entrance from underneath the bridge, and walk out until you are at the crossing. The street crossing your path will be Washington Street, and if you look to your left you will see Manhattan Bridge poking out between the buildings. Take a left onto Washington and walk towards the bridge. When you reach the corner of Washington and Water Street, you will be looking up at the most iconic view of Manhattan Bridge and one of the most Instagrammable places in New York City.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA DUMBO Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    This is a particularly tricky one to shoot at because more than one person can’t shoot here if it’s a clear shot you’re after, otherwise someone is blocking someone’s shot. For this reason, don’t take too long on the bridge and aim to be here before 8am. If you have the time, maybe plan for this to be done first thing on another morning so you can enjoy here and the bridge without having to keep an eye on the time.

    When you’ve got your shots at one of the most Instgrammed spots in NYC, continue walking towards the bridge to take a leisurely stroll around Brooklyn Bridge Park where you’ll get some amazing views of the Hudson River, Manhattan and both Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA DUMBO Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    3. Times Square

    It’s big, bright, bustling and the busiest intersection in New York City. Located in the heart of the theatre district at the junction of Broadway and 7th Avenue, a photo here screams “The City That Never Sleeps” with its encompassing screens lit up 24/7 with the exception of Earth Hour.

    We had the most success shooting here at 7am on a Sunday morning (in summer). Without commuters out or tourists up it made for the perfect time to get clear shots for the ‘gram.

    This is very important! As you will be able to see from my Instagram post my friend and I are in the road. If you do this, ONLY cross when the pedestrian light is green and leave enough time to walk back to the sidewalk. It is dangerous and inconvenient for both you and the drivers to be posing out in the road when their light is green. This might mean it takes a few tries to get a clear shot without other pedestrians crossing, but if this is the shot you want then that is the only way I suggest, especially as your focus will be on the camera or your pose and not on the road. Do not put yourself or anyone else at risk and lead by example.

    That one hour of lights out during Earth Hour will never compensate for the unfathomable amount of energy being used to light up Times Square, but we can each do something in Times Square at the crack of dawn to help protect our planet and that is litter picking. Being the hot-spot that it is, every morning the sidewalks of Times Square are layered in a blanket of trash from McDonalds wrappers to beer bottles. It’s catastrophic, but if each person who visits could pick up a few bits and dispose of them correctly, it would go a long way. So keep that in mind (and hand sanitiser in your pocket) for when you visit.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Times Square Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    4. Top of the Rock with a view of the Empire State Building

    For the best view of the city head up to the Top of the Rock in the Rockefeller Centre. Why? Because from here you can also admire the Empire State Building and all its fabulous Art Deco glory. Of course this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t experience NYC from the top of the Empire State Building, if you are able to then you must, but in terms of photos of the city, this is your best option. If you are only able to visit one sky scraper in New York City to get incredible photos for Instagram then let it be Rockefeller so you can get the Empire State Building in.

    As with all good tourist spots this place gets jam packed pretty quick so if you are after a shot of just you and the City of Dreams your best option is to book an 8am ticket in advance to avoid disappointment. First, scurry on up to the top, in an orderly manner of course, with yourself heading out to the 2nd level and your photographer/insta-husband up to the 3rd (top) level. This is where you will get the Insatgrammable photo everyone wants and going there first will be your only window. You can then reunite after some undoubtedly confusing hand signals and get alternative shots, I suggest from the top level.

    The most magical time to be there though is sunset, just as the lights come up, the sun goes down and the city comes to life. Of course it’s not the easiest lighting to shoot and it won’t by any means be quiet but if you don’t intend on being in the photo, I strongly suggest going at this time. When you purchase your tickets online, the sunset slots will have a sunset icon next to it so you know you’ve got the right time for that day but please note there is an additional $10 fee. Book your tickets here.

    Top of the Rock is open daily from 8am – 12am with the last elevator going up at 11.40pm.

    5. The Flatiron building

    The Flatiron building is a triangular landmark on 5th Ave in the Flatiron district. Shaped like a perfect right triangle, it measures only six feet across the narrow end which makes for a quirky backdrop.

    This is a super busy area with commuters weaving all morning, luckily there are multiple spots around the building where you can snap it from various angles. This one in particular is on the corner of West 24th Street and 5th Avenue. It’s close to the road but not actually on it so you don’t have to rely on crossing times to get your photo for Instagram.

    We got here just before 8am (in summer), there were people around but that angle doesn’t depend on a clear shot because of the angle you’ll be shooting from.

    6. The Vessel at Hudson Yards

    This rose gold beehive shaped structure, designed by Thomas Heatherwick, has become the centre piece of Hudson Yards and one of the most Instagrammed locations in the city of New York. It’s an interactive piece of art with 154 interconnecting flights of stairs and 80 landings so you never have to fight for a photo opportunity when you’re up there.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Vessel Hudson Yards Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    The Vessel is open Monday – Saturday between 10am and 9pm and 11am – 7pm on Sundays. Reserve your tickets for free online here.

    If you’re after the perfect pic for the ‘gram outside it, aim to be in there just before 7am (in summer). At this point the only people you will be joined by are the gardeners.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Vessel Hudson Yards Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    7. Coney Island

    Believe it or not I got this shot on a busy Saturday afternoon in the centre of the park so the good news is you don’t need an early start for this one, just a little patience.

    There are multiple parks on Coney Island, entrance is free but check which park the rides you want to go on are in before you buy a pass.

    Coney Island musts once you’ve got your snap are:

    • Ride the Wonder Wheel, specifically a swinging car
    • Get a hot dog from Nathan’s
    • Let the Zoltar tell you your fortune
    • Visit the beach

    Remember to have fun on your travels, it’s not just about getting heaps of Instagrammable content!

    8. The Oculus

    The Oculus sits on top of the Westfield shopping centre and the World Trade Centre subway station. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this unique structure has become a popular backdrop for the ‘gram in New York.

    It shouldn’t be forgotten that this beautiful structures exists sadly because of 9/11 so whilst you’re here you can head around the corner to the 9/11 memorial to pay your respects.

    9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    The Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known as The Met, is the largest art museum in the United States, but let’s face it, it’s best known for being home to The Met Gala (formally called the Costume Institute Gala) where anyone who’s anyone wears absurdly fabulous outfits whilst we all judge and adore from our sofa in our pjs.

    To grab a solo shot on The Met steps like you’re Blaire Waldorf aim to get there before 8am (in summer), XOXO Gossip Girl.

    Shooting on the steps of The Met doesn’t coincide with its opening times if you’re planning on going early so they’re empty, but I recommend you return to visit during open hours. The museum is open 10am – 5pm between Sunday and Thursday and 10am – 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

    10. Central Park

    Central Park is Instagrammable all year round, with every season offering something beautiful. In spring it breathes new life, in summer you enjoy it from a boat on the lake, in autumn/fall the transitional colours have jaws dropping and in winter the snow makes the whole park sparkle. You cannot go wrong in Central Park.

    The park is open daily from 6am – 1am and there is no entrance fee.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Central Park Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog

    If you want to rent a boat from Loeb Boathouse it’s $15 per boat for a 1 hour rental +$20 deposit which is paid back to you when you return the boat. The boathouse is open between April and November (weather permitting) from 10am to sundown.

    My personal favourite spot in Central Park is Bow Bridge which you may recognise from Café Society (2016), Keeping the Faith (2000), Glee, Ugly Betty and Gossip Girl – to name a few. It’s a beautiful bridge with a lovely view over the lake so it makes for a great Instagram location once you’ve enjoyed a romantic row on the lake.

    10 best Instagram spots New York city USA Central Park Postcards from Hawaii Gabriella Wisdom travel blog


    So there you have it, 10 of the most Instagrammable places in The Big Apple, The City That Never Sleeps, The City So Nice, They Named It Twice: New York City.

    If you find this guide useful and take photos at any of these locations, use #postcardsfromhawaiiblog and I will feature them on my Instagram stories!

    Do more on & for the planet, Gabriella

    Pin this post






  • Thanksgiving pumpkin pie recipe

    Thanksgiving pumpkin pie recipe

    With 2.9 million posts on Instagram using the hashtag #pumpkinpatch, pumpkins are more popular than ever. Is it even Autumn/Fall if your feed doesn’t have someone holding a pumpkin with a pun in the caption? If it doesn’t, just go follow me, I’m one of those people! We can’t just go running through pumpkin patches without taking one or two home though and sure we can carve them, it’s one of my favourite things to do this time of year, but we could MAKE PIE!

    I’ve never been to America during fall/autumn, I’ve always wanted to though as it’s no secret that they take the holidays very seriously from pumpkin drinks to pumpkin decorations. Alas, I’m just going to have to bring that spirit into my home instead, and you can too with this classic American dessert.

    Pumpkin pie is THE dessert for the holidays across North America and is consumed on both the Canadian and American Thanksgivings. The recipe below actually comes from an American friend of the family, and has been in my Mum’s recipe book for decades, but it has been adapted to make the pumpkin filling and pastry from scratch as the original recipe asks for a pre-made pastry and tinned pumpkin which is then seasoned, so you get extra bragging rights for using this recipe! There’s even a couple of quick recipes at the end on what to do with the seeds, so nothing goes to waste!

    This recipe will make two pies as even a small pumpkin like the one I used will make enough filling for two. This way you can eat one and freeze the other for Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving if you’re making these for Hallowe’en.

    PFH Fun Fact: Pumpkins are a fruit, I googled it.

     

    Ingredients 

    Pastry

    142g Butter

    284g plain flour

    56g caster sugar

    2-4 tbsp water

    Pumpkin filling

    The flesh of one medium pumpkin

    1/4 cup golden caster sugar

    1/4 cup white caster sugar

    1 1/2 cups of undiluted evaporated milk

    1/2 tsp salt

    1 tsp cinnamon

    1/2 tsp ginger

    1/4 tsp of nutmeg

    1/4 tsp allspice

    A pinch of ground cloves

    2 eggs

     

    Equipment

    Wooden spoon

    2 mixing bowls

    Flour dredger

    Knife

    Sharp knife

    Chopping board

    Scales

    Rolling pin

    Pastry mat (or a clean and flat surface)

    2 20cm (8”) round tins

    Blind bake beads

    Measuring cups

    Ladle

    Tsp measurement

    Method 

    Pastry

    1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).

    2. Measure out ingredients.

    3. Add the butter to the flour and rub with your fingertips to create a crumble like texture.

    4. Stir in the sugar.

    5. Add 1 tbsp of water and stir through, keep adding water in small amounts and stir through until the mixture becomes a dough. Do not add all of the water at one time because you don’t want a wet dough.

    6. When you are able to, use your hands to roll your dough into a ball.

    7. Using the flour dredger, scatter some flour over a flat surface (either a table, kitchen counter or a pastry mat) and rolling pin, then place dough upon the surface.

    8. Cut the ball of pastry in half and round off each half.

    9. Roll out one half of the pastry, turning and flipping it whilst re-flouring the surface and rolling pin as you go until the pastry will fit one of the tins at a thickness of 5mm (1/4”).

    10. Lightly grease the tins with butter and dust with flour to prevent the pastry from sticking.

    11. Place the pastry over the round tin and gently press it in.

    12. Lift up the tin and using a knife, trim the excess pastry from the edges.

    13. Repeat steps 7 – 11 with the other half of the dough.

    14. Line the pastry with a scrap of parchment paper and, if you have them, evenly place the blind baking beads into the two round tins to weigh down the pastry as it bakes. If you don’t have them then use the excess pastry that you trimmed off to create small balls to weigh down the pastry.

    15. Place them into the oven, putting your best one on the middle shelf and the other on the lower.

    16. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 15mins then turn the heat down to 150°C (300°F) for a further 10mins.

    17. Remove the beads and check if the pastry has dried out beneath them. If it has, remove the tins from the oven and let them sit. If they aren’t dry after the beads have been removed, place the tins back into the oven (without the beads) for a further 2mins or until they have dried.

    18. You can now move onto the filling.

    Pumpkin filling 

    1. Turn the oven down to a lower heat whilst you prepare the pumpkin. Depending on how soft your pumpkin is, peeling and preparing it could be time-consuming so you don’t want to lose the heat from the oven, but you also don’t want to waste energy.

    2. Measure out the ingredients.

    3. Cut the pumpkin into more manageable chunks.

    4. Remove the seeds and general mush (put aside for later, see below).

    5. Peel the skin off, making sure to remove all of the tough exterior.

    6. Chop the pumpkin into chunks.

    7. Add the chunks into a saucepan with 1 cup of water.

    8. Place the saucepan onto a medium heat until the pumpkin is soft and mushy, regularly stirring it to make sure it isn’t sticking to the bottom. You want to cook it like you’re making mashed potato.

    9. When the pumpkin is really mushy, stir it with a wooden spoon to make a smooth purée.

    10. Add the pumpkin to a mixing bowl.

    11. Stir in the golden caster sugar, white caster sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves and eggs until it’s a smooth, creamy consistency.

    12. Pour into the pie casings (or use a ladle if you want to be more precise), filling them to about 1/2cm from the top of the crust.

    13. Place the pies in the oven for 15mins at 180°C (356°F) then reduce the heat to 150°C (300°F) and cook for a further 25mins

    14. Turn the oven off (or down if you want to roast the seeds, see below) and leave the pies on top to cool down

    15. Slice the pie to serve it. You can serve it with single cream, whipped cream, squirty cream or ice cream.

    Toasted pumpkin seeds

    Even if you’re not making pumpkin pie, flavouring and toasting your seeds after carving pumpkins will prevent them going to waste. They’re a great snack with a glass of vino or an after-school treat – plus a lesson to show kids not to let anything go to waste.

    Sweet


    1. Remove the pumpkin goop from the seeds and lightly dry them with a cloth



    2. Place them as evenly as possible onto a tray



    3. Drizzle them with oil



    4. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over them



    5. Toast in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 3-4 mins (or until you hear them popping)



    6. Allow them to cool for 5mins



    7. Put them into a smaller pot (a ramekin should do it) and stir through an extra teaspoon (or two) of sugar



    8. Serve!


    Savoury


    1. Remove the pumpkin goop from the seeds and lightly dry them with a cloth



    2. Place them as evenly as possible onto a tray



    3. Drizzle them with oil



    4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic or paprika (anything of your choice) over them



    5. Toast in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 3-4 mins (or until you hear them popping)



    6. Allow them to cool for 5mins



    7. Put them into a smaller pot (a ramekin should do it) and serve!


    .

    Aloha, Gabriella

    Pin this post




  • Best Brazilian street food guide

    Best Brazilian street food guide

    From breakfast dishes to sweet treats and drinks, here’s your guide to the best and most important Brazilian street food dishes that you must try whilst in Brazil. 

    Most of these dishes can be picked up either from the street food carts along Copacabana and Ipanema beaches or from the street corner eateries in town, but I strongly recommend you make a trip out to Feira Livre da Glória which is the farmers market in Glória, Rio de Janeiro which runs every Sunday.


    Food

    Pão de Queijo

    I became wildly obsessed with pão de queijo whilst in Brazil, they’re just so scrumptious! Pão de Queijo translates as cheese bread but it’s more than just a little ball of cheese bread. The origin of this bread is uncertain but it is said that the recipe has existed since the 18th century from African slaves. It is made from the starch of cassava root and is therefore gluten free. 

    It is mostly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

    Coxinha 

    A coxinha is the perfect snack for lunch, it’s small but filling and easy to eat on the go. Plus, you can pick one up from any street corner vendor. 

    It is made from shredded chicken – sometimes shredded chicken and cream cheese – which is rolled in a dough either made from wheat or potato, it’s then breaded and deep-fried. 

    Tapioca

    Just like pão de queijo, tapioca is also made from the starch of a cassava root and is also gluten free. In fact, whilst there we learnt that it is a popular substitute for those on a gluten free diet. Tapioca is cooked like an omelette, flat in a saucepan and filled with whatever you choose. It can be made either savoury or sweet.

    Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

     

    Pastel

    A pastel is a large fried savoury pastry filled with either cheese, meat, chicken and cream cheese (like the coxinha filling), ham and cheese or palm heart. 

    The most popular filling is meat, it’s a seasoned mince meat.

    Heads up, these pastries, although delicious, are huge and rather greasy, so I recommend sharing them.

    Accarajé

    Accarajé is a savoury dish served for lunch and is a very typical street food meal, especially popular in Brazil’s northeastern state of Bahia. It’s made from a deep-fried ball cut in half (made from white beans, soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside), which is then filled with a paste made from bread, shrimp and coconut milk called vatapá, an okra stew called caruru, and finally topped with tiny sun dried shrimp and a fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, fresh coriander and hot sauce.

    With a strong smoky flavour, it’s quite a potent dish to try, but it’s incredibly popular and will no doubt have a queue.

    Don’t forget to bring reusable cutlery!

    Açai

    Açai is one of the most popular street food dishes you can get out in Brazil. Like ice cream this frozen fruit smoothie cools and refreshes you in the heat, whilst providing all the health benefits that ice cream doesn’t. Açai berries are packed with antioxidants, fibre and calcium. To learn more about açai, check out my previous blog post, Açai smoothie bowl recipe.

    Cocada 

    Cocada is a traditional sweet cake made from coconut which is known as a sweet or candy in Brazil. 

    They are made in all sizes from bite-size to ones that you can share with others.

    They are also available in different flavours such as mango and passionfruit.

    PFH Top Tip: If you will be returning home within 10 days of purchasing, you can take them home as a gift as the amount of sugar in them will preserve them for about 10 days.

    Romeu e Julieta

    Romeu e Julieta translated as Romeo and Juliet is the combination of a soft cheese served with a guava fruit sweet. The guava fruit is pressed and rolled in sugar and eaten with this almost sour soft cheese. It can be served many ways depending on where you go, on the market it’s just a lump of cheese and sweet guava, whereas hotels and restaurants will present it as one. It’s named Romeu e Julieta simply because they’re two things that shouldn’t go together but do. 

    Personally I think it’s delicious but for sure it is an acquired taste, Michael was not a fan.

    Traditionally this would be eaten after dinner.

    Drinks

    Água de coco

    All Brazilians believe Água de coco (coconut water) will heal everything. Hangover? Água de coco. Upset stomach? Água de coco. Broken heart? Água de coco! I don’t blame them for believing this though, it’s so pure, refreshing and delicious that I would make up a problem just to drink it!

    You will mostly find it bottled up, but as my PFH Ohana, you will know that we don’t encourage the usage of single-use plastics. Simply ask them to pop a hole in it and drink it with the reusable straw I know you’re carrying around in your bag. There’s a good chance there’s a language barrier, so just act out popping your straw in a coconut and drinking from the source and they’ll crack it open for you. It’s always more fun this way anyway. 

    Caldo de Cana

    This is a juice made purely from sugar cane. As you can imagine it’s sweet but if you haven’t tried sugar cane before you might find that it has a strong flavour. Even as a half Mauritian lover of sugar cane, I can appreciate it’s sweet so you can drink it with a squeeze of lemon or lime. It’s delightfully refreshing and also somewhat of a palette cleanser.

    We were given this drink and it would have been rude to reject it based on the plastic cup. Instead we held on to the cup and reused it later in the day.

    Caipirinha 

    The caipirinha is the national cocktail of Brazil and is made with their world famous liquor, cachaça. Cachaça is a hard liquor made from sugarcane and is the sole ingredient of a caipirinha. To make your own, take a look at my previous blog post, 5 jet setter cocktails.

    .

    There you have it, eight of the best street food dishes and three drinks that you absolutely cannot leave Brazil without trying at least once, although I doubt you will only eat them once! 

    Aloha, Gabriella 

    Pin this post