Its all about the basics - Key pieces

Over the last few years, I really changed my shopping habits when it comes to what I buy for my wardrobe. I don't mean always forking out a lot for one item but focusing more on cost per wear as opposed to trends. I adore these t-shirts from COS and have them in a number of colours. The jeans are really nice quality & a nice fit similar to my Levis 501s.

Éadaoin

A stay at Domes Aulus Elounda - Where to stay in Crete, Greece

This July we went on a family holiday to Crete, Greece and I must say it was one of the best holidays I have ever been on. I wanted to really soak up our time away so I waited until we got back to post any clips of our stay but ever since a lot of people have reached out for more info so here we are :)

We stayed in the incredible Domes Aulūs Elounda, Curio Collection by Hilton and from the moment we arrived they could not have done anymore to make our holiday a magical one. The most important thing to note is, that this property is adult-only so unfortunately kiddies are not allowed however, they do have another property nearby that is kids-friendly (linked). 

The perfect key piece for your summer wardrobe

I am just back from the best weekend in Paris with my Mam to see Bruce Springsteen live, lots of nice food and wine and even sunshine...what more could you want? This dress is new stock from COS and I know it is going to be such a great piece for Summer. As I get older I notice I get more and more fussy about what I put into my wardrobe with a big focus on cost per wear so this piece is something I know I will live in for the warmer months. The dress also comes in white which is also fab if that is more your colour but navy was the winner for me :)

The most magical weekend in Paris - A stay at Sofiel Le Sribe Paris Opéra

Sofiel Le Sribe Paris Opéra 

Paris is always an incredible city to visit but in the lead-up, to Christmas, it really is something magical just like you see in the movies. My Mam planned this trip and WOW she really knocked it out of the park. I don't know anyone who knows how to do Paris better than her. If you want to browse all of my Paris recommendations you can check out my Instagram highlights. This post is dedicated to just a couple of recommendations on this specific. trip. 

Our accomadation

Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra was fully renovated in 2020 and you can absolutely see it when you step foot into the property. This five-star hotel is in the perfect location, located on the right bank with a view of the Opéra Garnier, Place Vendôme & all major shops. If you are looking for a real treat, this is the perfect place to stay on your trip to the city of love. One thing I always rave about when telling people about Sofitel as a hotel chain in general is their breakfast! Do not miss out on their buffet breaky if you are booking a stay. 

Food, drinks and places to visit 

• Restaurant L'Assaggio - We went to restaurant L'Assaggio for lunch on the day we arrived and wow it was delish. This restaurant is in the well-known Hôtel Castille Paris with the menu signed by the Michelin-starred Chef Ugo Alciati. If you are a foodie this is one for you! 

• A glass of bubbles and pastry from Pasticceria Cova - This is such a cute little spot right beside the Samaritaine shopping center. The perfect spot after a few hours of browsing the shops. 

• Shopping at Samaritaine Paris Point-Neuf - If you like all things luxury this is absolutely the department store for you. We spent so long browsing all of the beautiful brands and taking in the Christmas atmosphere. We walked along the water from the Louvre but The nearest métro station is Pont-Neuf.

• Dinner at AO IZAKAYA for Sushi lovers - If you are a sushi fan this place is absolutey worth visiting. It was right behind our hotel which was perfect location-wise. The menu hosts a range of Japanese cuisine with a French flair.

• A fashion show at Galeries Lafayette - As I said my Mam absolutely knows how to do Paris the right way, and one thing she booked was a fashion show at Galeries Lafayette. If you are planning a trip do check out if they have any events on whilst you are in the city, there seems to always be something on :)

• Nutcracker at Casino de Paris - This was just out of this world and made our trip even more special. If you can, try booking a show at the  Casino de Paris, the ballet was spectacular.

• Christmas windows: Printemps & Galeries Lafayette - These windows are a must if you are in Paris in the lead-up to Christmas. It is also a really free thing to do, I know a lot of people do not like to pay to go into places, and just like to roam the streets with a takeaway coffee or gluhwein ;) 

A city trip to Luxembourg

I have been lucky enough to visit Luxembourg many times as it is very close to my family. This post is a little accumulation of the spots my Mam and I visit when we go to the city. If you do get the opportunity to pay a visit to Luxembourg in the lead-up to Christmas you are in for a real festive treat. The Luxembourg Christmas markets are out of this world and like something straight out of a movie, so if you do get a chance to visit make sure you allocate time to see them all as they are scattered about the city.

The best of Edinburgh - What to see, eat and drink

We are just home from the best couple of days exploring Edinburgh city with our friends. This post "The best of Edinburgh - What to see, eat, and drink" is to help you plan the ultimate trip to Edinburgh, Scotland. We went in July and the weather was thankfully glorious but being Irish I am used to the weather basically being the luck of the draw all year around. Edinburgh has a little something for everyone and I must say it is the perfect location for a city trip.

Amsterdam Guide - Where is really worth the hype?

I first visited Amsterdam over five years ago now, in that time I have experienced it as a tourist, moved there, studied and now work there whilst living in Rotterdam. As you can imagine I have visited my fair share of bars, restaurants and attractions and wanted to give an insight into some of my favourite spots as not everywhere is worth the insta hype. 

Dinner in the city 

• Loetje - A well-known spot amongst Dutchies and for good reason! Loetje is located across the Netherlands but in Amsterdam, they have a gorgeous bar and restaurant located on the water right beside Amsterdam Central Station. 

• Japanner - This is one of my favourite hidden gem restaurants in the city. If you are a fan of authentic Japanese food this is one for you.

• Ron Gastrobar Oriental - A top class asian style restaurant that really has the wow factor. The perfect mix between Chinese and Indonesian flavours and an overall beautiful setting.

• Ron Gastrobar - Another Ron Gastrobar with a broader section of food choices so if you are not a particular fan of Indonesian and Chinese style food this may be a better option for you.

• Happy happy joy joy west - An authentic Asian street style restaurant with four spots across Amsterdam city.

• Spaghetteris pastabar - This franchise is all over the city, a really nice, casual pasta bar. 

• Impero Romano - One of my favs in Amsterdam, a little slice of Italy in one restaurant. 

• De Pizzabakkers De Pijp - A cosy pizza spot with incredible wood-fired pizzas. Do reserve to avoid disappointment as their location at De Pilp is on the small side. 

Exploring Rotterdam - The Ultimate Guide

It has been over five years since the first time I visited Rotterdam city so as you can imagine after 5 + years, 3 of those living here I have accumulated quite a list of must visit spots in Rotterdam including bars, restaurants, attractions etc. I do also have a Rotterdam highlight over on my Instagram if you want to see more videos, sometimes that gives you a bit of a better impression of the spots. I hope this post helps you to plan the perfect trip to Rotterdam....you are in for a treat!

Food spots in Rotterdam

Brunch, lunch & treats:

• Grab a treat at Koekela bakery - By far the best bakery for cake & baked goods in Rotterdam, 100% one to visit for a takeaway coffee & treat whilst you roam the streets.

• Lilith - If you are a brunch fan this is one for you. The most delicious brunch options & those of you who are vegetarian/vegan are also covered.

• Westkop for pizza & drinks in the sun - This is a spot we have been going to since it opened. Westkop is located right beside the newly opened Boijmans museum, a must if you are in the area especially if the sun is out (tiktok video).

• Dudok Rotterdam - Dudok has two spots in the city, one in Het Park & also on the Meent. If you are in the mood for a good hearty lunch this is a great spot, their apple pie is also famous in The Netherlands & one to try if you have a sweet tooth ;)

• Pirqiet in Het Park - Always a great spot to grab something to eat or even a takeaway coffee & treat while you go for a walk in the park. This is one of my favourite areas in the whole city, so cozy & full of cute dogs which is a plus if you are dog obsessed like me.

• ALOHA - A low waste foodbar with incredibly healthy food options & in the summer a terrace for a drink in the sun overlooking the water.

• LOT&DAN - I have had brunch at LOT&DAN a couple of times & it has never disappointed. Another great brunch spot with gorgeous decor, perfect for a girly date.

• Bertmans - Bertmans is always a good idea if you are craving a good lunch or brunch spot in the city center.