Aus Berlin!

Last weekend I spent in Berlin to enjoy the Christmas markets with my sister. It was a magical feeling to be around the markets full of light and festive decor. I'd not been to Germany in almost a decade so this was a great chance to be around the language I'd spent many years at school learning. Berlin does have a very surreal feel of home, all the people in stores seemed more than happy to use English and the service was lovely in most stores.

The markets had so many decorations and hot drinks mixed with alcohol (Baileys etc.) and food which most definitely wouldn't be accepted on any diet. We had Nutella crepes and mingled in to the crowds, looking at the beautiful wood cut decorations and sweet treats aimed at children.

Most of the visit was spent in shopping malls, getting to try new stores like Gina Tricot and Bershka. I didn't spend lavishly although I did get a new coat, a parka which appear to be super popular in Europe just now.

TRAVL// LONDON'S CALLING [IMAGE HEAVY]

For a wee while I have thought about venturing down to London, our Capital city, to enjoy the Art, Culture and cuisine. I took an early train, armed with; my map (only £2 from The Works), some travel snacks, my trusty camera and an eagerness to experience bustling London.

The train ride gave me ample time to get through 'How to be Danish', a brilliant book (one of my 101 in 1001) about Patrick Kingsley's experiences with Danish folk and much of their countries cultural attributes. It's a pretty short book but really gives you a sense of the calm, friendly and (for many) cyclist enthusiastic Danes.

I'm a fan of the stunning mixture of architecture to be found in London. The contrast going along the street below, with the immense glass structure of the shard facing the Tower Bridge, it is difficult to believe these two majestic giants exist so close together. It reminds me of Tokyo, where you'd see tiny old shrines the size of a shed stood proudly between two massive skyscrapers.

My University course is design based so it felt ideal to visit the Design Museum. I found myself sat on a bench outside the Museum, enjoying a Starbucks coffee and watching the world drift by, the sun making the Thames sparkle, it was such a lovely break from packed tube trains and the mad crowds of the shops. The Design Museum has an exhibition about Women in Power, showcasing photographs and clothing of women that have influenced the world. I was particularly fond of the Chanel suit and Skin's (of Skunk Anansie fame) outfits which had shoulder pads with immense layering.

I had the chance to meet with a friend for lunch at the new Shoryu Ramen restaurant, located behind Liverpool Street Station. We had a little difficulty finding it but it was so worth it, I had an awesome Garlic ramen dish and a bun with prawns and they were so delicious I would eat there every day if I could! After dinner we went to Liberty's to check out the cosmetic counters and I picked up a few things which I'll put in a later post, it is amazing in there, every time I go it feels like an other worldly experience. I sound like a crazy lady haha but seriously I adore all the beautiful prints and the luxurious displays of fine leather bags and sparkling jewellery.

I leave you with photos of my day, none of me because, well why would I haha I'll probably put my outfit and some Instagram shots in the purchases post.

BOOK// CYCLING HOME FROM SIBERIA

"Cycling Home From Siberia tells the story of Rob’s three-year bicycle ride from northeast Russia back to London, via Papua New Guinea, Tibet and Afghanistan. Along the way he camped at minus forty, was robbed at gunpoint, and hitch-hiked on boats across the sea."

Reading books is something I don't often get around to doing as I feel guilty for not doing work, alas what can be more inspiring than reading! Rob Lilwall's book 'Cycling Home from Siberia' was so captivating it took me barely two days to finish and I struggled to put it down. The quote above from his website here is a great shorthand of what this book encapsulates but without so much of the depth or emotion from the book itself. 

Lilwall endures horrendous temperatures and heated tensions with his co-cyclist as he embarks throughout Siberia and onwards across several countries, with very little former experience on cycling vast distances. His writing style allows you to experience the journey too, reading as if he was telling a friend or someone that may be considering embarking on the adventure themselves. Reading about his strong faith and the kindness of almost strangers definitely made me consider how I treat others and also how genuinely blessed my life is (deep revelations here I know). 

I felt envy as he trekked through Japan, a country that seems to always remain captivating to myself. Lilwall instilled a curiosity in me about places I had never really considered visiting before but now would love to go see, though perhaps not on bike. If you're a keen traveller I think this book would be a real treat for you to enjoy (maybe on a long flight). 

I have his next book 'Walking Home from Mongolia', though I am putting it aside to read something a little different for a bit as I feel if I finish that too I'll be left with no more of his wonderful antics. If you're interested in his books they're very reasonably priced online or are available at Waterstones where I picked up mine.

LIFESTYLE// TRAVEL WISHLIST

A life without travel seems a little empty, I enjoy seeing new places and venturing out to beautiful parts of Europe seems only right being part of the continent, if only in name as the UK always feels so far from mainland Europe. I think places with languages that aren't English are intriguing, with varied cultures, I only hope I can afford some day to travel to these beautiful places.

Finland, Helsinki

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Not only does it have a stunning Cathedral I have heard great things about the shopping and restaurants. A few bloggers I follow are native to Finland and they always have such beautiful photos of their homeland it feels a little irresistible. I would not restrict myself to Helsinki if I were to visit Finland though, I would love to see some of the beautiful scenic land.

Czech Republic, Prague

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A long time wish of mine has been to visit Prague, the architecture and the deep history draw me in. A beautiful city, so different from our British cities. I feel it would be very relaxing and I have a soft spot for riverside views.

Sweden, Stockholm

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Whenever I see pictures of Scandinavia I often think of Stockholm as a starting point, some where I can relax but also enjoy great nights out. I have heard amazing things of the night life. The architecture and art scene would be glorious to see for sure and I am always eager to experience the food of new places.

LIFESTYLE // TRAVEL FLORIDA

Photos from my recent holiday to Florida. It was amazing being able to try out foods and go on all the adventures at the parks. Universal Studios and Disney were both amazing places.