Afternoon tea, the quintessential English past-time. And what better way to take tea then to dive head first into the quirky art scene that is Sketch London for an afternoon of sheer cake-y pleasure!
From the minute you enter the whimsy that is Sketch, you forget about the noisey London streets for a while. You wander in further, lost in the theatrical decor. You emerge into the Gallery, the pink room, were you take afternoon tea.
A trio of strings plays beautiful classical versions of recognisable songs in the far corner of the room, and we express our wishes to return every weekend.
We are sat at a small table for two by the bar, and were promptly greeted by our very attentive host. After I received the first of many cups of "First Romance", the afternoon's treats began to arrived.
When the tiered sandwich and cake stand arrived at our table we were beyond excited. One by one we tried the tasty morsels, deciding which we would ask for repeats. Surprisingly, I couldn't get enough of the pea and asparagus sandwich fingers, and was served more on request. Now, I'm not normally too crazy about mushy peas, but they were delicious!
But what about the scones?! It's not afternoon tea without scones with jam and cream. Frankly, we had been so enthralled with everything we had forgotten about the next course. Nevertheless, we refocused and delighted baked goods!
With the table cleared we were thinking that at any moment we would have to leave this heavenly place, when we were asked life's moment important question, "Are you ready for the cake?".
I felt it almost necessary to unbuttoned my pants as the most perfect slice of Victorian sponge cake was placed in front of me.
Have you even been to Sketch if you haven't taken a selfie in the famous bathroom?
An experience in itself, the colourful tiled ceiling glass dances light over the egg-shaped pods that fill the crisp white room. And did I mention the bar? Nestled under the dome at the foot of the staircase.
Afternoon tea starts at £49, which for the experience, I feel is actually quite reasonable. Its a little more if you want to add some bubbles.
We certainly left satisfied! And will return frequently!
Have you been to Sketch and loved it? Let me know!
All my love, S
The benefit of moving to the northern hemisphere when your birthday is in July is you finally get to have a summer birthday! This year for my birthday all I wished for was to lay on the beach, drink pina coladas and swim in the ocean.
To fulfill my wish we jetted to Mallorca, a large spanish island off the east coast of mainland Spain. I have long dreamed about visiting Mallorca after studying Can Lis, the residence of Darnish Architect Jorn Utzon.
We caught to 4am National Express bus from Golders Green station (conveniently our local tube station) to Luton airport for the 6am EasyJet flight to Palma de Mallorca. While booking the tickets earlier could have reduced the cost of the transfer, it was a hassle free way to get to the airport.
We arrived at the airport in Palma a little before 10am, after the fastest I have ever moved through a customs check, and picked up our little Smart Fortwo from Sixt car hire. Fair warning, I have never driven on the right-hand side of the road before, and knew we were in for an interesting day.
On our journey to Portopetro to see Can Lis, we slowly wound our way along the south coast of the island. While there is no coast front road to drive around, there are plenty of amazing lookouts to stop at if you depart from the main road.
Far de Cap Blac Lookout
Our favourite was Far de Cap Blac, a light house on the edge of the cliffs, where you could look over the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean and back to Palma.
We made it to Can Lis around 1pm. I had booked a time slot online for 2pm but it quickly became apparent we didn't need one. If you are visiting Mallorca and have a few hours to drive out to Portopetro, I would recommend a visit to Can Lis. Even if you aren't an architecture nerd like me. Not only is it an amazing example of Uzton architecture, it gives a glimpse into the island lifestyle and it has amazing views of the ocean.
Can Lis, Portopetro
After spending what was well over an hour wandering through the house, we jumped back into our little car and headed to Manacor.
Manacor is the very proud home town of tennis great Rafael Nadal. Home to his own tennis academy and museum, Manacor is one of the larger towns on the eastern side of the island. We stopped in for a snack and a walk around the quiet streets, during siesta, to find the Parroquia de la Mare de Deu dels Dolors de Manacor, a beautiful church whose spire we could see from the road into town.
Absolutely exhausted from the early morning and lack of sleep, we began the hour drive back to Palma. After a false start in dropping the car back, after learning that just because the fuel station attendant tells you the tank is full doesn't mean it is, we returned the car to the rentals at the airport.
Here is where I should note that with the combination of right-hand side roads, tiredness, and spanish round-a-bouts (mixers), we were glad we made it back in one piece!
All we had to do now was jump on a bus and make our way into Palma, then onto Cala Major where we were staying. We had chosen to take the bus option as I had read reviews online saying it was affordable and easy. Affordable, yes. At 5€ one way and 8€ return. Easy, no way! Not only did the machine only accept specific notes and coins, which were not dispensed from the ATMs inside the terminal, the round trip machine would accept our money. In a mad rush not to miss the bus we had a run with the single trip ticket. This allowed for 1 airport bus trip + 1 bus transfer.
We hopped onto the crowded bus less than excited about the sweltering heat (we might be Australians but it was hot!), but knew we were less than an hour from our destination. This was until the bus dropped us seemingly randomly in the city. "Last stop", yelled the bus driver. Everyone looked just as confused as we were. Not knowing how long the next bus would be, or if our 1 bus transfer would allow us to get to our destination, we pulled out our phones and used trusty google maps to save the day.
After an 8 minute walk to another bus stop, google told us the bus would arrive in 5 minutes. 25 minutes later we hopped on an even more crowded bus and stood in the doorway as the bus door hit my bag trying to close. Exhausted we weren't getting off!
Finally, after learning that buses in Mallorca are a little unreliable, we were dropped off near our hotel. We chose to stay at the Be Live Hotel Marivent, one of the three Be Live adults only hotels in Cala Major, due to the beach frontage. While the hotel looked a little older on the exterior than we were expecting, the rooms were modern, clean, and spacious. Not that we planned to spend anytime in the room, we were here for the beach.
Cala Major beach has dozens on grass umbrellas and lounges which I highly recommend as the sand gets ridiculously hot! A days hire will set you back 16€ and you also get a lock box to store your valuables while you are taking a dip in the beautiful water. The beach itself is relatively sheltered with very few waves, and waist deep water that extends at least 20 metres off the shore. Also, its patrolled by lifeguards so its very safe! With easy access to plenty of food options and even a little bar you can eat, drink, and sunbathe until your heart's content.
After a hard day of relaxing in the sun we dined at Pelicano Beach, on the beach front, and watched the sunset.
On our final day in Mallorca we decided to visit the Catedral-Bascilia de Santa Maria de Mallorca on the way to the airport. After our less than impressive bus experience we decided to try a taxi. Within minutes of the hotel calling for a cab there was one arriving to collect us. A quick 10 minute trip, and we were at the cathedral.
The cathedral, built in the 13th century, is a beautiful example of Spanish Gothic architecture perched on a hill overlooking the ocean.
Unfortunately, as the cathedral has a strict policy on that you can take inside, we had our large bags so we admired it from the outside. We wandered the beautiful streets around the cathedral, then across to the Guiness House for Paella.
With plenty of ease, we hailed a cab for the 15 minute journey to the airport. Total taxi cost for the day, 30€. Peace of mind, priceless!
We enjoyed Mallorca endlessly and will definitely be heading back in the future to explore the western side of the island and more of the old city.
All my love, S
Parroquia de la Mare de Deu dels Dolors de Manacor
Absolutely exhausted from the early morning and lack of sleep, we began the hour drive back to Palma. After a false start in dropping the car back, after learning that just because the fuel station attendant tells you the tank is full doesn't mean it is, we returned the car to the rentals at the airport.
Here is where I should note that with the combination of right-hand side roads, tiredness, and spanish round-a-bouts (mixers), we were glad we made it back in one piece!
All we had to do now was jump on a bus and make our way into Palma, then onto Cala Major where we were staying. We had chosen to take the bus option as I had read reviews online saying it was affordable and easy. Affordable, yes. At 5€ one way and 8€ return. Easy, no way! Not only did the machine only accept specific notes and coins, which were not dispensed from the ATMs inside the terminal, the round trip machine would accept our money. In a mad rush not to miss the bus we had a run with the single trip ticket. This allowed for 1 airport bus trip + 1 bus transfer.
We hopped onto the crowded bus less than excited about the sweltering heat (we might be Australians but it was hot!), but knew we were less than an hour from our destination. This was until the bus dropped us seemingly randomly in the city. "Last stop", yelled the bus driver. Everyone looked just as confused as we were. Not knowing how long the next bus would be, or if our 1 bus transfer would allow us to get to our destination, we pulled out our phones and used trusty google maps to save the day.
After an 8 minute walk to another bus stop, google told us the bus would arrive in 5 minutes. 25 minutes later we hopped on an even more crowded bus and stood in the doorway as the bus door hit my bag trying to close. Exhausted we weren't getting off!
View Cala Major beach from our hotel room
Finally, after learning that buses in Mallorca are a little unreliable, we were dropped off near our hotel. We chose to stay at the Be Live Hotel Marivent, one of the three Be Live adults only hotels in Cala Major, due to the beach frontage. While the hotel looked a little older on the exterior than we were expecting, the rooms were modern, clean, and spacious. Not that we planned to spend anytime in the room, we were here for the beach.
Cala Major Beach
Cala Major beach has dozens on grass umbrellas and lounges which I highly recommend as the sand gets ridiculously hot! A days hire will set you back 16€ and you also get a lock box to store your valuables while you are taking a dip in the beautiful water. The beach itself is relatively sheltered with very few waves, and waist deep water that extends at least 20 metres off the shore. Also, its patrolled by lifeguards so its very safe! With easy access to plenty of food options and even a little bar you can eat, drink, and sunbathe until your heart's content.
After a hard day of relaxing in the sun we dined at Pelicano Beach, on the beach front, and watched the sunset.
Catedral-Bascilia de Santa Maria de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca
On our final day in Mallorca we decided to visit the Catedral-Bascilia de Santa Maria de Mallorca on the way to the airport. After our less than impressive bus experience we decided to try a taxi. Within minutes of the hotel calling for a cab there was one arriving to collect us. A quick 10 minute trip, and we were at the cathedral.
The cathedral, built in the 13th century, is a beautiful example of Spanish Gothic architecture perched on a hill overlooking the ocean.
Unfortunately, as the cathedral has a strict policy on that you can take inside, we had our large bags so we admired it from the outside. We wandered the beautiful streets around the cathedral, then across to the Guiness House for Paella.
With plenty of ease, we hailed a cab for the 15 minute journey to the airport. Total taxi cost for the day, 30€. Peace of mind, priceless!
We enjoyed Mallorca endlessly and will definitely be heading back in the future to explore the western side of the island and more of the old city.
All my love, S
Mallorca
On Tuesday, I will reach the ripe old age of 28. Yes, I am aware it's not old, but I feel as though I have now crossed over into the realms of "proper adulthood".
In aide of my 28th year of life I decided to compile a list of 28 lesson I have learnt so far.
- You will definitely not have your life together at 25. And that's totally fine!
- John Lennon was right, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans".
- My Dad was also right, "Make hay while the sun shines".
- ALWAYS remove all your makeup before you sleep.
- Don't always do things for the sake of making others proud. Do them for yourself!
- Don't worry about what other people are thinking about you, chances are they are thinking about themselves.
- If it feels wrong, it probably is.
- "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do" - Mark Twain is my new mantra!
- When people hurt you or bring you down, this is not a reflection on you, its actually a reflection of them.
- They may play it cool, but boys are actually more complicate than girls in my opinion.
- You should never have to feel inferior. PERIOD!
- Speaking of periods, you cycle changes length over time. Who knew!
- It's okay to not do things just because everyone else is, just as it's okay not to like something that everyone else likes.
- Find what sets your soul on fire and do it! And do it! And do it!
- It's okay to change your mind, you're only human.
- Never feel like you can't walk away from a person or a situation if it's bringing you harm.
- My Dad was right again, "You only have some much energy to give, don't waste it on being angry".
- Don't judge what you don't understand. Choose to enlighten yourself instead. Ask questions.
- As my high school math teacher would always say, "Never assume". I still quote him regularly.
- Being an adult is actually just about making decisions for yourself, constantly!
- Opening up to my parents when I'm struggling has lead to some of the best advice. After all they went through it too.
- Its okay to not agree with everything your parents say or think. It's kind of the first sign of your own maturity.
- You don't have to be 100% happy all the time. You can take a breather. Sometimes I have what I call "low days" when I feel a bit lost. I know they will pass, and they help me appreciate the happy days. It's a kind of balance.
- Listen to your body. Its probably important.
- If it makes you feel like a queen, wear it!
- You will look back on your teen years and think, "What did I do that for?", but it's okay. It made me who I am.
- Don't just wish for time to pass. Spend it trying everything at least once! (No, I'm not talking about illicit substances)
- You will probably feel like an imposer at 28 because won't feel "grown up". I still feel like I'm 16. And that's fine by me!
I always liked the sound of 28, so I think I may just stay here for a while.
All my love, S
All my love, S
On the final day of Royal Ascot 2019 we joined the other thousands of people and a headed to the races. As we are complete novices we decided to jump on our first Stoke Travel tour. The £90 ticket included entry to the Windsor Enclosure, bus transfers, a goodie bag, and a bottle of Brut. Departing from Clapham all looking very dapper, we began the two hour bus ride to Ascot.
The Windsor Enclosure is the entry-level area, where the dress code doesn’t require you to invest in a top hat and tails. Our beginner status was cemented when we realised experienced race-goers came prepared. BYO picnics and alcohol is permitted, which apparently calls for table clothes and crystal champagne flutes in some cases. There are plenty of easy food options if you have left your basket at home. Fish and chips are a clear favourite.
Finding a spot on the fence before the Queen’s arrival at 2pm is no easy feet. A crowd five deep gathered along the fence, definitely stakeout a spot early if you want to get a good view. Thanks to long arms and a smart phone I managed to take a video as Her Majesty rode past in her carriage.
The main event begins at 2:30pm with the last raced at 5:30pm. If you haven’t managed to find a piece of grass to set up for the day, the tiered seating ensures a great view of the track. If you are keen for a flutter there are plenty of bookies within the enclosure.
Back on the bus at 7:30pm, we made the journey back to London with an optional Stoke Travel after-party for those keen to continue on.
What we learnt:
- Pack a picnic and make the most of the day.
- Take a poncho, if it’s raining you don’t want to have to huddle under an umbrella all day.
- Thongs/flip flops are an appropriate footwear for later in the day.
- Get there early if you want a place on the fence.
Milk Train, Covent Garden
The Knot Churros, South Kensington
Bubble Waffle, Camden
Merry-go-round, Brighton
In all the times I've visited the UK I have never been to Brighton, so it was high on my list of must-see places now that I live here.
Departing from Victoria Station on the Gatwick express, the faster, more expensive option, we made the hour and a half journey to Brighton.
Fish & Chips by the Seaside
Coming from a coastal city in Australia, we were keen to see the ocean again. Brighton has numerous fish and chip shops along the boardwalk, so naturally we bought fish and chips for lunch and enjoyed the sunshine.
Brighton Pier
Brighton Pier
An ice cream and a walk around the famous Brighton Pier. Full of sweet treats, rides and, of course deck chairs!
Brighton Pavilion, Brighton
Brighton Pavilion and Gardens
A must see on a day trip! The pavilion is a beautiful example of Indian inspired architecture. The gardens are also a wonderful place for a picnic.
Seaside, Brighton
Walk the Boardwalk and the Eclectic Streets
There are so many wonderful shops and cafes along both the boardwalk and through the streets of Brighton, particularly North Laine. You can find pretty much anything you can think there from souvenirs to second hand records.
We had a wonderful day in Brighton!
All my love, S
Chelsea, London
I first visited London when I was 16, and I loved it! I recall telling my mum, "I could definitely live here". It was fast and lively, yet felt familiar. I visited twice more before I made the decision to just do it!
I had come to the point in my life when I thought it wasn't an option in the foreseeable future. Then my opportunity came and I grabbed it with both hands.
After A LOT of packing and a lot of tears, my best friend and I boarded our flight to London. We had intended to be a little more prepared, but we had done all we could and it was time to go.
We learnt very quickly that some of the information we had gathered online pre-trip was absolute gold, some was rubbish, and some was just missing.
So, here is my Moving to London: 10 Things I Wish I Knew.
1. You need an address for pretty much everything!
Other than actually finding somewhere to live, you need an address for everything.
Bank accounts, phone contracts, National Insurance Numbers, collecting your BRP card, and registering for the doctor. I couldn't even register for tickets to a show without an address.
I would advise everyone that finding somewhere to live should be your number 1 priority.
2. Rent is expensive!
Okay, so I did expect this. I knew that I wasn't going to get much for my money. My advise, do plenty of research. You are extremely lucky to spend under £700 per month. The closer you are to the centre of London the more expensive it is, but the further out you are the more you spend on transport. It's a delicate balance.
3. Transport is expensive!
In my first month I spent £100+ on traveling in and out of London on the tube.
Thankfully, our housemates (fellow Australians and seasoned Londoners) are full of useful tips, including the bus being a flat rate of £1.50.
St Paul's Cathedral, London
4. Finding a job will take time.
My qualifications are in architecture, and I knew I wanted to work in this field. As I was being very specific I knew it wouldn't be easy. I started to put in the leg work a few months before I arrived in London, and starting contacting recruitment agencies. I was so confident I would have interviews to attend as soon as I arrived. However, recruiters like to meet with you before they start searching for opportunities.
My best friend works in office administration. We thought she would find a job straight away, so she didn't start her search until we arrived. In reality it took her 7 weeks to get her first job offer.
The lesson is, come prepared!
5. Where you live may impact where you want to work.
Getting in and out of London can take time. Finding a job that is close to where you live, or vice versa, is valuable. Keep in mind, it's acknowledged that anything under an hour is considered reasonable.
6. Monzo is actually really, really good!
You'll need a UK bank account to get paid into, and to set up any direct debits.
I'll be honest, I was slightly skeptical when reading about Monzo in forums pre-trip. Everyone was raving on about it, but it wasn't until I arrived I realised why. Now, while you still need an address, its super simple to set up from your smart phone. You also only need one account and then you can creating "pots" for saving.
7. Wages are a lot less.
Don't have big expectations as wages are a lot less in London. A little shocking considering the cost of living is quite high. £9-10 an hour is consider to be good. £10-12 an hour is considered great. Of course this can depend a lot on your employment type, but I have definitely had to accept I'd be stepping down a pay grade.
8. People can be a bit rude.
Possibly its a product of living in a big city but people can be a little be short, even flat out rude. Customer service is not what I am used to back home. The other day, a woman even felt it necessary to tell me it was raining anymore when I still had my umbrella up.
Just don't take it to heart, it's not you!
9. Always stand to the right!
Or face the wrath of your fellow commuters. You've been warned!
Camden Town, London
10. There is that much to do in London!
In fact, there is so much to do you will never need to travel anywhere else.
London is full of iconic attractions, parks, museums, galleries, west end and east end shows, quirky streets, shops, and restaurants and cafes.
Now tell me why you wouldn't move to London! I sure don't regret!
All my love, S
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