Queens Road Weekender

Have you ever been in a situation in which a friend asks you to meet at Queen’s Park and in the back of your head you are asking yourself: what’s in Queen’s Park? Where even is Queen’s Park?!

We feel you, I feel you. As an East Londoner myself, I recognize I live in a very sweet bubble where I have most things at my disposal. In most instances, going out of this bubble may feel unnecessary, but it can also be very rewarding.

I am a wanderer at heart, and if you are too, Queen’s Park has a lot for you to unpack. So what do you say, are you ready for a day ride?

10:00AM: Kickstart your day with an energizing workout

Whether you prefer spinning, barre, hot yoga, or even boxing, places like Psycle, Fierce Grace, and Storm offer classes to sweat away your stress, hangover, or fears, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the day.

11:00AM: Treat yourself Hour

As the morning progresses, head over to the Farmer's Market at Salusbury Primary School (available only on Sundays) to peruse an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. Alternatively, #treatyourself to a pampering session at Somewhere in Queen's Park, where you can indulge in a stylish new hairdo.

12:00PM: Satisfy your food cravings at Milk Beach

After working up an appetite, satisfy your brunch needs with a delightful brunch at Milk's Beach. From savory classics to innovative twists on brunch favorites, their menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and fuel your adventures ahead. You can read our full-review of this restaurant (and get a glimpse of what you’ll get!) here.

2:00PM: Brews and Banter, It’s ‘Liquid Leisure’ Time!

With brunch behind you, embark on a journey of libations and leisure. Start with a beer tasting at Wolf Pack's Brewery, where you can sample a variety of craft brews in a laid-back setting. Then, make your way to Alice House Gastropub for a cheeky pint and lively ambiance.

4:00PM: Playful pursuit with Mini-Golf and Shopping in Kilburn

For a dose of fun and nostalgia, challenge your companions to a round of miniature golf or explore the nearby Kilburn area for some second-hand shopping. Traid and Crisis offer refined charity shops where you can uncover hidden treasures while supporting a good cause.

6:00PM: Discover the local creativity at Kiln Theatre

As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Queen's Park. Catch a show at Kiln Theatre and experience thought-provoking performances that celebrate diversity and creativity.

9:00PM: Savour the night delights with a food feast

If you still have energy to spare, treat yourself to a culinary adventure at one of Queen's Park's renowned eateries. Indulge in excellent sushi at Michiko Sushino or savor a Middle Eastern feast at Carmel, where bold flavors and warm hospitality await.

In Queen's Park, every moment is an opportunity to relax, indulge, and explore. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil escapes, this vibrant neighborhood offers a wealth of experiences to enrich your day and leave you with lasting memories.

TCB xxx

Nyege Nyege: A Journey of Music, Adventure and Unforgettable Moments

The last quarter of the year is upon us and that only means on thing: Nyege Nyege is coming soon. Have you been thinking about going to this festival but are unsure about whether to go or not? I can’t emphasize it enough – it is a must. I loved Nyege Nyege. Despite ups and downs and some serious challenges with accomodation, this was one of the most memorable experiences of my life, and one that I would do ever and ever again.

It was in the midst of the winter lockdown in 2020, when the world seemed to have paused, that my fascination with Nyege Nyege festival took root. The festival had gotten traction thanks to the viral Youtube video of DJ Kampire’s Opening ceremony in the middle of the River Nile.

The festival in front of my eyes was a cultural melting pot, a fusion of traditional and moder sounds that resonated with me deeply. I was instantly hooked, in love. I wanted to be there, I needed to be there! I had to make it happen. And so I decided to follow the festival on socials in the hope that one day, I could also participate in such a wild adventure.

Almost a year later, I found myself walking from the tube to my work office when an Instagram story flashed before my eyes: Nyege Nyege tickets were now available. Excitement surged through my veins, and within moments, plans were set in motion. A quick call to the boyfriend and a few clicks on a clunky ticket website and were now proud owners of two passes to an adventure waiting to unfold.

FYI tickets costs $70/ person and $60/ person for 3-nights glamping. Pretty irresistible, right?

Since this was my first venture into West Africa and my first ever visit to Uganda, we decided to extend our trip and make it a 2-week holiday. Our journey would begin with the festival as the centerpiece but expand into a grand exploration of Uganda, from mountain gorillas in the South to mind-blowing waterfalls and a volcano hike in the North.

The 2022 Edition of the festival was marked to be special one. The organisers had decided to move the festival from the city in Jinja to the mystical forest of Itanda Falls, promising an experience like no other. I was so excited.

I remember vividly the first day of Nyege Nyege. Our morning was hectic; we had learned that Kampala has a fashion district where to get personalized outfits and so we wanted our very own attire for the festival. In a matter of 2 hours, we had picked our own fabrics and had a full outfit co-ord made for us. It was time to get to the festival grounds!

Unfortunately, creating these one-off pieces meant that we were delayed to take our bus to Itanda Falls. Boda-bodas, the Uber motorbikes of Uganda, attempted to get us there on time, but the first buses had already left. That was OK, we thought, we will make it in time for sunset, we thought.

The bus and road to Itanda Falls were an odyssey. Transportation had clearly been oversold and so we were pretty jammed between people and luggage in the bus. I took this as a funny situation, but after a few hours in the bus, it started to get a little bit uncomfortable. All part of the experience though.

Unfortunately, our hopes that we would make it to the festival grounds for sunset were not entirely true. The roads in Uganda are not in the most pristine state and so what usually would take 2hrs, here it took double the time.

We finally get to the site, and the bus leaves us on the road for a 10 minute walk to the entrance. Chaos and mayhem greeted us, and I loved it. If one thing is for sure, is that this festival is not for the heart fainted. There were a lot of people hustling in the street on our way into the festival. Hundreds of street vendors trying to sell you anything you may need, from water to sneakers, you name it. There’s not rest for the hustlers.

We finally get to the gate and the festival workers greet us in. We’ve made it, we are here! The excitement is palpable. We get told to walk further into the forest to collect our glamping bracelets. We walk in search of our camp, and that’s when it hits us. In essence, there was no camp. And certainly, no glamping. The promise of a luxurious camping experience turned into an unexpected challenges.

Our finished glamping hut

The camping area where you brought your own tents, or even the built-in tents was lovely. Fairly lights in, all pitch perfect. The promised glamping area, on the contrary, was a working site. The situation was beyond disbelief. We were reduced to try and finish our huts (made of wood) by finding wood in the floor and nailing it in with a screw and hammer. What happened?

We started talking to some people on the ground and finally understood the situation. Politics, lack of time and resources; unfortunately also some bad organisation. The festival was almost cancelled due to political turmoil and negativity around it. Many believe Nyege Nyege is a sex party because the words translate to ‘horny horny’ in Swahili, but it is not it. There was a lot of back and forth about the success of the festival, but in the end organisers won the battle and Nyege Nyege was going ahead. It just meant they weren’t prepared for it. At all.

We found ourselves fighting for bedding in the middle of the night, crying for help for somebody to finish our house and put a lock in it. There were no showers, and no toilets. Panic was starting to kick in but we had to choices: leave or move on and enjoy ourselves.

We decided on the later. We took the executive decision of keeping our valuables (money and passport) with us during the festival and just enjoy the time out of the campsite. We were here for the music, not for the campsite.

At the heart of it all was the festival itself- a kaleidoscope of sounds and rhythms that transcended borders and got everybody together, despite all the challenges abovementioned. From Nigerian afrobeats, South African amapiano, traditional Luganda music, to then electronic and techno, the music was a celebration of diversity. The imperfect setting of the forest only heightened the realization that perfection wasn't necessary for magic to happen. Dancing under the starlit sky, I felt a connection to the world, to the people around me, and to the music that united us all.

Despite the initial challenges and the accommodation fiasco, the festival was a testament to the human spirit's resilience. The chaos, the hustle, and the vibrant energy formed the backdrop to an experience that would forever hold a special place in my heart. The journey wasn't just about the music—it was about embracing the imperfections, finding joy in the unexpected, and leaving with a treasure trove of memories.

I also want to mention that breakfast onsite was spectacular, the coffee fabulous (I would dare to say better than festivals in Europe!) and the dining options on offer very tasty. In lieu of showers, we bathed in the source of the River Nile, which was refreshing and magical. We built friendships with fellow festivalgoers and danced into the night, finishing with a meat feast at The Meat Guy.

Was the experience at the camping shocking? Yes. Did that blur my experience of the festival? No. I would go there again a thousand times more.

P.S.: Since this edition of the festival got so much backlash for the accommodation fiasco in the forest, Nyege Nyege has now moved back to its original location in Jinja, where festival goers can stay in a hotel and move freely and easily in and out of the site.

Do not miss out, it’s an experience of a lifetime. One for all senses.

Turkey For First Timers: A 10-Day Odyssey Through Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turquoise Coast

Embark on a transformative journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural wonders with our curated 10-day itinerary.

As first-time visitors to Turkey, we sought to immerse ourselves in its diverse offerings and uncover its hidden gems. Spanning three captivating destinations, this itinerary guarantees an unforgettable adventure through Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turquoise Coast. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

DAY 1-3: Start the trip in Istanbul, unveiling the essence of this vibrant city

Stepping foot in Istanbul is like stepping into a world where adventure lurks around every corner, and the air is thick with the essence of multiple cultures converging. We were tired after a long flight and taxi ride, but upon arrival, our first instinct was to immerse ourselves in the city's vibrant energy, and what better way to start than by witnessing the mesmerizing hues of the sunset?

A ferry ride became our gateway to this magical experience. No need for elaborate tour bookings; a simple hop onto the ferry from Galata Kulesi to the old town, where majestic mosques stand tall, was all it took. The cost was negligible, payable only in cash, yet the experience was priceless. However, if boats are not your jam, a stroll across the bridge also offered glimpses of locals engaging in the age-old tradition of fishing for miniature shrimp in the Bosphorus waters.

For an authentic Istanbul experience, we recommend a stay of at least 2 to 3 nights in the Karakoy/Beyoglu area. Despite its touristy nature, this district pulsates with life and offers just the right blend of upscale charm. Indulge in a delightful dinner at Aheste, followed by drinks and dancing at Kiki. And for a truly surreal experience, visit Hagia Sophia around 3am when serenity reigns, and the absence of crowds allows for an intimate exploration of this architectural marvel.

Karakoy also boasts a thriving cocktail scene, alongside great local designers and vintage shop treasures. Among our finds were second-hand Ganni pieces and a stunning denim top from 313.

If time permits only one touristy endeavour, let it be a walking tour culminating in a visit to the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern (and get online tickets to avoid queues on the day!).

DAY 3-6: Journey into the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia

From the bustling streets of Istanbul, we embarked on a short flight to Cappadocia, a land where dreams take flight amidst otherworldly landscapes. While more eco-friendly routes exist, our time constraints led us to opt for a swift plane journey of less than 3 hours. It will certainly be more expensive than a bus ride, but it has its advantages.

In Cappadocia, our senses were overwhelmed by the sight of towering rock formations and the opportunity to partake in unforgettable experiences. If this is what you are after for your Turkey trip, then read more here and here.

Whilst for us doing the Hot Air Balloons was magical, you can still have an incredible and unique time in Cappadocia without doing this experience. Visiting the Goreme Open Air Museum or hiking the Love Valley, Pasabag or the Rose Valley is breakthtaking and definitely worth your time there. We also took this time to experience the Turkish Hamam at Kelebek, which was delightful.

DAYS 6-8: Touring the Turquoise Coast, where Land meets Sea

After our sojourn amidst Cappadocia's rocky vistas, we craved the warmth of the coast, and so we flew to Antalya. The distances in Turkey are huge, and when you are tight for time, this is your only resort.

Antalya's allure extended beyond its pristine beaches. It’s a warm city with lots to offer! We found great coffee and aperitivo time at he Palmen Haus, and savored the freshest seafood at Ayar Mayhanesi, beneath the open sky.

We only had a day at Antalya, and I wish we had more. I think it could be a place where, given the time, you could stay for a few nights. We didn’t have such pleasure, and took our rental car on our way to Kas. Diving enthusiasts like myself will find Kas to be a haven for underwater adventures. I seized the opportunity to obtain my PADI Advanced Open Water certification, exploring sunken treasures beneath the waves. Kas is a small village but it is perfect to relax and unwind in the most beautiful and blue turquoise waters.

In Kas, our culinary escapades led us to Helios for sumptuous Turkish breakfasts, Biiist for a perfect cup of coffee, L'Apero for evening aperitifs, and Demeti Kas for delectable grilled delights. Additionally, a memorable day excursion involved chartering a private boat, complete with a barbecue, to secluded turquoise coves—a true epitome of luxury on a budget.

For history buffs, a visit to Myra Antik Kenti offered insights into ancient civilizations amidst breathtaking ruins.

DAY 8-9: A Visit to Pammukkale, nature’s masterpiece unveiled

You don’t really need more than a day in Pammukkale, but it is certainly worth the stop. The surreal beauty of the naturally formed salt pools juxtaposed against the remnants of an ancient Roman village left an indelible impression. Despite the scorching temperatures, wandering amidst these ethereal landscapes felt like traversing a realm suspended between fantasy and reality. This is your picture perfect postcard!

DAY 10: Goodbye Istanbul

Our journey culminated in Istanbul, where we savored our final moments with a spa visit and a sumptuous dinner at Lokanta 1741, marking the end of an unforgettable exploration through the heart of Turkey.

There’s so much more to explore, we can’t wait to be back.

TCB xx

Borgo Sant'Andrea: The Taste of Luxury in Amalfi

There are some moments in life that leave an indelible mark on our hearts, and my recent 35th birthday celebration at Borgo Sant'Andrea in Amalfi was undoubtedly one of those moments. Nestled along the stunning Amalfi Coast, Borgo Sant'Andrea isn't just a 5-star luxury hotel; it's a slice of history that has been meticulously transformed into a haven of opulence and impeccable service.

Before its transformation into a world-class luxury destination, Borgo Sant'Andrea was a charming coastal village that bore witness to centuries of Mediterranean life. The historical significance of the location added an extra layer of enchantment to the already breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast. The hotel's careful preservation of its heritage also allowed me to sense the echoes of time as I explored the beautifully renovated spaces.

From the moment my friends and I arrived, it was clear that their dedication to exceptional customer service was unparalleled. The staff's warm and genuine hospitality made me feel like a VIP guest rather than just another passerby. This commitment to creating a personalized and memorable experience set the tone for what was to come.

Perched on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, a luxuriously set table awaited us. The attention to detail was impecable; from the elegant table settings to the carefully curated menu, every element exuded a sense of sophistication.

Planning ahead had proven to be advantageous, as I managed to secure this coveted spot for our celebration despite the fact that this is only open to hotel guests (yay). This exclusivity added an extra layer of intimacy to the occasion, making us feel like we were in our own private paradise.

As we sat down to lunch, overflowing glasses of rose and white wine from Ischia set the tone for a sumptuous feast. The raviolo caprese stole the spotlight as the main course, presenting a harmonious blend of flavors that paid homage to the region's culinary heritage. The grilled fish platter showcased the freshest catch of the day.

Local desserts like the Baba Rum provided a sweet conclusion to the meal, but the surprises didn't end there. A beautifully crafted birthday cake emerged, a testament to the hotel's dedication to making every moment unforgettable. As friends shared laughter and stories, time seemed to slow down, allowing us to savor every moment of this pitch-perfect meal.

This is a memory I’ll carry with me forever. It took my breath away and left me with a heart full of gratitude.

Lau*