AUSTRALIA

Australia was always a place I wanted to visit. The stereotypical koala and kangaroo images alone, just bring back childhood memories of wanting to venture to this far, oceanic continent. I guess the great distance definitely plays a part here. It is the chance to go beyond. Cross all those countries and be somewhere completely new, that I did not yet had the chance to discover. 

As in most cases, my journey started out in Sydney. Landing at the Sydney airport went smoothly, then I quickly purchased my first Oceanic Acai bowl and focused upon making my way to Bondi. It was going to be our base for the next couple of days. I did not want to stay so much in the city itself, but rather feel the beachside vibe.That is what I wanted to experience. I usually book my accommodations via booking.com or airbnb. This time I found a perfect beach front airbnb for great value and completely recommend doing just that.

I am not sure if it is because of the ageing process and the fact that I am 25 now, but the time zones affect me more nowadays. However, in the case of Australia it worked out perfectly. By going to bed and waking up early, I think that I really got to experience the "Bondi" feel. At 6 am, you could already see the promenade getting filled with athletic runners and keen dog walkers, whilst the beach was busy with individuals practicing yoga. The healthy lifestyle just pulsates within the little ecosystem that is Bondi. 

Even though Bondi is thought to be quite touristic and filled with backpackers, it wasn't too intense for me and I really enjoyed my time there. November is just before the high season and the masses don't arrive till December. I really recommend going during that time! As it is easily possible to rest and have a great holiday alongside enjoyable weather conditions. Luckily, the weather was perfect when I arrived as all the storms happened just before..and then after I left!

I will be honest - I only went into inner Sydney to see the Opera House as I spent most of my days in Bondi, Bronte and Manly. As most people will say, the Bondi to Cogee walk is totally worth doing. Whether you are running or simply waking, the views are just idyllic and really pull together what this area is all about.

Whilst running the route I found a great cafe in Bronte. It is called The Three Blue Ducks and it has THE BEST AVO on toast that I have ever eaten. If you are a meat eater, I totally recommend trying their bacon roll. Anything in this spot is delicious. My routine consisted of going on a run and stopping by to have brekkie there on the way back - then eventually calmly strolling back to Bondi with a happy belly.

After a couple days in Sydney, I took a plane a little up the coast to Gold Coast where I checked out GC itself as well as the infamous Byron Bay. This place really has this laid back surfer hippie feel that I enjoy on such getaways. Time flows very slowly, people get up early in the am to go surf and you can find acai everywhere. Whilst sharks did not fail to appear nearly every day, I tried my luck with the surf. Easy living, is what I would define it as. In Byron, I stayed at a camping site called 'The Nest' with 'glam' tents. The price was very travel friendly and I did not see the need to spent much more. This camp is just a 5 minute walk to the endless Tallows beach (if you have not seen what it looks like, definitely google it!) that just lures you into its shores. Definitely check out this beach if you venture to Byron. If you go even more Southerly, you'll find even more hidden spots and beaches - with very little other people. Just explore.

During one of the days in Byron, I even made a day trip to Nimbin - home of the Mardigrass festival and supposedly the "weed capital of Australia". I am not going to lie that the trip is not particularly worth taking as the town is a little run down and filled with a lot of 'lost' souls. Even thought the phenomena may be intriguing the journey through the beautiful hills was far more interesting than the actual destination. The bright green colours completely captivated me during the drive, which was just an hour long.

One thing was certain, I could not leave Australia without giving a Koala a little cuddle. Whilst I was on my way to Brisbane, I quickly stopped off by the nearest sanctuary. In my case it was Currumbin - it had good reviews, so I gave its go. As much as I never support these sort of tourist activities, it has always been a dream of mine since I was a little kid to go to Oz and hold one of those guys. Apart from the fact that I was met with THE most stereotypical US tourists there it all went smoothly. On top of this I also got to see some kangaroos which were also impressive.

Next and last up was Brisbane. As out of that airport I was going to fly to the South Pacific country of Vanuatu. To me, Brisbane was just another busy city. I really feel like most of the big Australian cities that I have seen just remind me of their American counterparts. Therefore you can imagine that for me it was the chilled beachside towns such as Coolangatta that truly stole my heart. However, watching little toddlers training water safety with their parents in Sydney also was something that defined the lifestyle here for me. No can deny that Australia is definitely a place of nature, quality family time and good breakfasts!

MY MUST DO'S

- Indulge in the delicious avo on toast at Three Blue Birds in Bronte. The meat eater alternative - bacon roll - highly recommended it    too as it was insane too.
- RUN the Bondi to Coogee walk
- Look for unique clothing/jewellery/cosmetics in Bondi beach - I loved the boutiques and the attention to detail in aesthetics and design
- Definitely visit Coolangatta in Gold Coast
- Byron is a must, the laid back hippie vibe just pulsates through this small coastal town
- Avoid Nimibin, nothing to see there apart from some old crack heads (I think the years of glory for the this "weed" village have passed")

Top 6 Magazines

In the recent weeks I have been reading a lot - whether it is a book or these magazines I have put netflix aside and given much more focus to things that lie beyond the black screen. I cannot stop reading the following magazines and I just love it. I have gotten so much inspiration as well as information from the titles I will name below. I cannot deny that their aethestics, visuals as well as the graphic content really intrigued me and definitely contributed to me picking them up in the store. However, the most important part is that as I flipped the pages and read on - it just kept getting better, What I love the most about the following titles is their orginality and the transcendence of the norm as well as the brisk way they are curated - they that fresh touch, whilst still sustaining character. 

Suitcase

If my mind could be put into a magazine - Suitcase would be just it. Everything about this lifestyle issue is just idyllic. From tasteful travel inspirations to freshly fashion ideas, this magazine is curated in the most perfect and effortless manner. The image quality as well as edit is ever so pleasing with the colder tones that seem to rise from the pages and transport you into the world that lies beyond them. Another great thing about this mag is it's size - super handy to when you are on the go or travelling - which after reading Suitcase will be very likely to occur. The locations they find and spots they recommend are uncommon but will definitely appeal to the most picky readers. Yet again, a triumph or aesthetic genius and great content in one! Last practical thought: the small format is super handy, especially when travelling or on the go!

Label Magazine

How did I not know about this one before?! A polish magazine focusing on all aspects of design and what lies beyond it. I really like the fact it caters for both english and polish speakers, making itself accessible to a much wider audience. I feel that design has become the talk of more and more publications as the years roll by. I guess this has something to do with our realisation that design is essential and present throughout all aspects of life, to all of us. Even though we are not all first hand designers, a creative need dwells within us all and there is no denying that there is a little part of us that really appreciates design - we are all creators in some way. Each issue of Label focuses upon a central theme, whether its Women in design or a Japan themed issue - each publication follows a nicely laid out scheme of a Designer.  



New Philosopher
I guess since philosophy has always had a sentimental place in my heart and mind - every time I am in the UK, I try to purchase the New Philosopher. Each issue focuses upon one theme and thoroughly explores related theories and ideologies surrounding such an issue. Most recently, I read the issue that focused upon food and its importance in our daily doings. The New Philosopher is a great starting point for those who were never involved with Philosophy as well as a nice way to keep on top of things for those who are keen philosophical explorers. 

Kukbuk

This issue is published solely in polish - with the title that plays with the polish take on the english word Cookbook. This issue is filled with beautifully curated pages focusing on cooking and lifestyle. I really like the big format of this magazine and how well it is put together. The high quality images make you want to cook straight away and experiment within the realm of your kitchen. I love how recipes in this magazine is closely linked with culture.

Usta Magazyn
This si another polish magazine. First of all, I have to say I LOVE the texture of its pages. The materials used to produce this piece have been well thought through and it will be appreciated by aesthetic enthusiasts. What more, the articles are really interesting ranging from various debates about important current topics, lifestyle or simply food. 

WHERE TO COFFEE IN WARSAW

The coffee movement has definitely been ruling social media for a while now.  Coffee is something that unites us and we all know life is too short to drink bad versions of it. In the end it is all of our little rituals and special moments that make up our life. Having spent a little more time in Warsaw now, I have found my top 3 places for coffee. I guess I am a little coffee fiend and I do appreciate a good cup of it. All of the three places I mentioned have great coffee and an attractive atmosphere that already lures you in before you realise you're at a caffeine haven. I will be updating this list as I'll discover more favourites. 

COPHI SOLUTIONS

Hoża 58/60

On Hoża street you'll find COPHI. I would classify them as Warsaw coffee gurus - they have a great selection of coffees and coffee products that they also sell at their online store. What more, the staff is super helpful - I bought my Japanese coffee grinder there just the other week and I couldn't have done it without their advice. It's a local place that also organises many barista competitions and courses. I really like how involved they are in the coffee scene and it makes the whole place feel even more authentic. Their paper cups have beautiful drawings too - it's all about the details that create the idyllic coffee experience. 

KAWIARNIA FABRYCZNA

Fabryczna 28

Located in the Warsaw Powiśle district, this cafe blends in perfectly with its surroundings. As you enter, the vintage feel is definitely enhanced by retro furniture pieces that define the vibe of this place. Laid back,  relaxed, slightly nostalgic with no commitments -  that's exactly how you feel in this space. What I really like about Fabryczna is that it is spacious and has two separate rooms as well as outside benches that are perfect to perch on, on hot summer days. The people working there are really friendly and they serve up great coffee. In the menu you'll also find eggs, oatmeal and a shaksuka. Home-made fresh ciabatta sandwiches are also up for grabs, just like declines cakes that change daily.   It's local and feels local - a home away from home - with great coffee.

STOR

Tamka 33

Everyone is Warsaw knows STOR. It is also located in Powiśle, just on Tamka street. The decor is on point, the cakes are delicious, they make killer coffee and yummy matcha lattes. Visually,  I really like how the big old school windows invite you in but at the same time make people watching ever so accessible from the inside. It's local with a super friendly feel - kick back and relax as you sip your good coffee and cut a piece of rhubarb tart. In addition, their selection of accessories to buy for drip, chemex or espresso coffees is rich too. Last but not least - STOR definitely gets extra points for having a compost bin #babysteps.

ETNO

Marszałkowska 87

They have three locations just in Warsaw and I can't believe that I have only just discovered this place a couple of months ago. This location is definitely my favourite and I was ever so impressed by the quality of the coffee here. So far, I have enjoyed everything I tried at ETNO. From coffee which I really loved to salads and their tiramisu - nothing has left me disappointed. Furthermore, the spacious arrangement inside really makes working there pleasant. They offer a range of seating possibilities and an ideal space for co-working or meetings. In addition, they have a store too and I believe other cafes in other big polish cities. 

HAŁAS VINYL + COFFEE 

Jagiellońska 30

Praga is definitely a very special part of Warsaw. It was heavily destroyed during the war but houses some of the most stunning, un-renovated buildings. I do not need to say more that it definitely deserves its own place with good coffee. The small vinyl record store that makes up a part of the shop definitely 'had me at hello' and when I saw a Pink Floyd album I knew I was sold. It's a very small cafe with a super cosy and local feel to it. I always take their banana bread because 1) it's banana bread and 2) they know what they're doing. The ingredients are simple but just like with good coffee it is about method and proportion. 

RELAX NA WILCZEJ

Wilcza 17

My most recent discovery - I absolutely adore the decor and the amount of space that is available in this cute and cosy interior. There are tables available outside and inside, whilst the coffee is on point. Relax na Wilczej also offers great breakfasts and their own home baked sweet treats! This is a minor detail but I dig their dark coffee cups too. Just like all of the other cafes I wrote about, Relax also encourages the bring your own cup policy. I love my Keep Cup and always try to carry it for takeaway coffee.

This list is by no means complete,  however these are definitely my current favourites. I will be adding more coffee spots as the list grows!

Malta - a guide

Malta - I have mentioned it in a couple of my previous posts, however I have never really gone into more details about how the island is and what can be explored there. I have been wanting to write a guide for a while now but I guess this post came to me much more naturally after my third trip there. Now I feel that I have a lot more to share with you, as my knowledge of this island has grow. This is a list of spots and places that I personally explored and really recommend. 

On this Mediterranean island it really does feel as if time has stood still, never left. The ancient architecture that dominates the island creates a magical presence that makes you feel as if you have been transported into the heart of movies such as Troy or Gladiator (both which were filmed on this island!). What more, whilst this happens you can enjoy a catch of the day at the local restaurant as you look upon a clear blue ocean. Even though there are only a few sandy beaches as Malta is very rocky, the clean crystallised water is always inviting - you won't say no. Personally, I think of this place as a Mediterranean gem and I think I will always keep going back there. Here are some of my favourite spots, make sure to give them a try if you will venture to this isle. Before I'll go on I just wanted to mention that I really recommend renting a scooter. The ancient streets of the cities in Malta make it ever so difficult to manoeuvre or find parking, whilst a scooter provides a swift solution to the problem. Every time we go we tend to rent from Med-Sun in St. Julians. The drivers are very careful of scooter riders so getting round the island has been an absolute ease.

Gozo. Most travelers who decide to go to Malta make the trip to Gozo. With just under a 20minute ferry ride you can explore a more feral isle of the two. Even though the majority people who visit Malta will venture onto Gozo, you do not tend to feel the 'touristic overcrowding'. The aqueduct that we found is just a couple of minutes from the town of Victoria and standing by the field next to it really makes you feel like being in the Gladiator movie. The sun-kissed and faded fields perfectly blend in with the limestone structures that are scattered across Gozo. Make sure to stop by Cafe Jubilee in Victoria to get your dose of caffeine for the day as it will definitely be a long one! 

Once you are on Gozo, without a doubt you should definitely check out the cliffside area of Dwejra that housed the now collapsed Azure Window, which was featured in the Game of Thrones. Afterwards, I would totally recommend checking out the Citadella (Castello) in Victoria - a structure which is believed to have been a Punic-Roman settlement. The Citadella reminded me of Mdina, especially its small windy streets that wind around the surrounding buildings. The architecture is stunning and the sand tones are simply beautiful.  One complements the other and its something you should not miss. Architecture knows no era on this island as Gozo also has some megalithic structures known as the Ggantija temples. These are from a similar period to the temples that you can find on mainland Malta next to the Blue Grotto known as Mnajdra. All of these structures are almost 6000 years old, thus not only making them a all UNESCO World Heritage sites but at the same time some of the oldest structures that grace our planet! If you have more time definitely check out the fishing village of Marsalforn and you'll find delicious fresh seafood to end your day with.

Mdina. First inhabited around 700BCE, Mdina was also an old capital of the island during the medieval times and now, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,  that definitely accounts as one of the most popular tourist attractions on Malta. Its narrow, winding streets were perfect for filming scenes of King's Landing for Game of Thrones. I couldn't recommend more to see this settlement - the walls tell centuries of history. Not to mention all of its beautiful doors that are of all different colours designs. The one pictured above, with its rich purple flowers is a definite must see..

Valletta. This UNESCO World Site town is a must whilst in Malta, UNESCO itself describes it as 'one of the most concentrated historic area of the world'. With its architecture, museums, cafes and beautiful views - no wonder it was given such a description. Every time I am in Valletta I stop off to have the best cannoli at Dolci Peccati a small Sicilian cafe that has great coffee and delicious Italian snacks. Malta's close proximity to Sicily makes it popular amongst Italians who open up businesses on the island - Dolci Peccati is one of them and I couldn't recommend it more for a day when you're exploring Valletta. 

This year a Is-Suq talk Belt (Food Halle) has been opened in a new location. Various restaurants and bars - some local, others with from a foreign palette serve up great dishes. The mussels were great there and the outdoor bars are great for an evening's drink. Downstairs they have store which sells some groceries - a lot of them are imported from the UK and just seemed a little overpriced to me. However, I'm sure you'll find something you crave. 

Due to its historical and archeological importance Valletta also has great museums, however to me the whole city is just a one big museum site! National Museum of Archaeology, of Fine Arts or War to name a few - there is quite a range to choose from. Take your time and just wonder the streets, exploring beautiful architectural gems such as St. John's Co Cathedral, built by the order of St. John in the 16th century..

St. Julian's presents itself as rather lavish just as the restaurants that it houses. The harbour bay looks wonderful when the lights are lit up in the evening and its worth taking a trip to this town for a tasty dinner. Barracuda restaurant is definitely my favourite - I ate the best fish on the island there and I soulfully recommend it to you. Even though the better restaurants in this area can be a little pricier than others, they are definitely worth the spend, Barracuda is definitely one of them. Apart from renting out the scooter, strolling or going to restaurants in the area, I didn't find much else to do in in St. Julians.

Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk. Both of these are smaller fishing towns that serve up the best fish in Malta and they are within a 10 minute drive from each other on a scooter. You'll find plenty of restaurant choices here. I would recommend to always go for the catch of the day, it will guarantee you freshness (not that its an issue here in Malta).  We really enjoyed our dinner at Restaurante Famiglia in Marsaskala and Dell'Arte in Marsaxlokk, which recently changed location.  Additionally Terrone offers tasty breakfasts and great dishes in their daily changing menu. Terrine is also located in Marsaxlokk, right on the seafront.

St. Peter's Pool is definitely one of Marsaxlokk greatest attractions. The blue water is ever so inviting and the ledges are perfect for jumping into this naturally occurring 'swimming pool'. In the summer it can get quite crowded so if you want to have a more private experience definitely get there earlier in the day. The cliffs surrounding the St. Peter's pool give a great view over the deep blue sea, it's very dreamt and ever so stunning.

More. Undoubtedly, there is always something more to explore. For example the breath-taking Blue Grotto, which can be admired from a cliff side lookout close to Mjandra. The view is incredible and on the day we went the wind was so strong that I swear I was half flying when walking around the view point. Alternativelyl you have Popeye Village, a town built for filming purposes that now became a theme park village attraction with boat rides. If you'll go round the other side of the village, you will find an area where you can swim and dive. Both of the attractions are very popular with boat tours, however we have remained faithful to our scooter and use it to get around the island.

Spring x Rowery Embassy

Spring in Warsaw can only mean one thing, it's time to get on an Embassy Bike and explore the city. I love the colours, smells and the atmosphere that touches this city when Spring is in full bloom. After the grey winter days, green trees and blue skies are ever so refreshing. Therefore taking my bike on a ride down river paths and city parks, is definitely one of my absolute spring must do's. My personal choice for this task is this beautiful rose gold piece known as their Goldie Deluxe Model. What about you? Which bike will fit you? Find your unique model at Embassy Bikes. Make sure to have a browse of their beautiful pieces :)

Wiosna już wypełniła Warszawe, a mój sezon rowerowy został rozpoczęty wraz z Rowerami Embassy. Kocham te kolory, zapachy i całą atmosferę jaka obejmuję miasto kiedy Wiosna jest w pełnym rozkwicie. Po długim sezonie zimowej szarości, zieleń i towarzyszące jej błękitne nieba bardzo orzeźwiają umysł. Podczas tego okresu, zabieranie mojego roweru na wycieczki po Warszawskich parkach i przyrzecznych trasach jest absolutną koniecznością. Goldie Deluxe jest moim preferowanym modelem do takich misji, ale który rower z nowej kolekcji będzie Twoim ulubieńcem? Zachęcam do zawitania na strone Rowerów Embassy i obejrzenia ich pięknych modeli, jest z czego wybierać :)

DRESS - COCO BOUTIQUE

BAG - GUCCI

SHOES - VANS GIRLS

SUNGLASSES - OLIVER PEOPLES