A blog about special neighbourhoods, local atmosphere and stellar coffee.
Pacific Beach and the adjoining Bird Rock are San Diego pockets synonymous with beaches, surfers and laidback atmosphere. Covering miles of white beachfront, this is a perfect area to kick back, munch fish tacos, stroll for miles and enjoy sweeping views.
Mission is an eclectic, energetic San Francisco neighbourhood. With a curious mixture of strong Latin roots and hipster vibes, this is where up-to-date restaurants butt up with humble taquerias, traditional markets stand next to sleek galleries, and green parks work as community hubs.
For me, Toronto is a city synonymous with a great food scene and cosy places to hangout. As it has become one of my favourite urban destinations, it was only appropriate to pay homage to some of the great coffee shops I’ve visited.
Seattle’s Capitol Hill almost feels like a little microcity; diverse restaurants, indie shops and local microbreweries butt up with charming residential areas and calm outdoor options. And in true Seattle style, there are tons of cafes to get your pick-me-up.
Known for its unique, off the wall character, Fremont is a Seattle neighbourhood that feels local, quirky and casual. With some unique landmarks, a great food scene and beautiful water views, this is a fun place to explore the quieter central Seattle.
The British coastline is dotted with charming havens, and Tenby really encompasses some of the most beautiful aspects of this; long beaches, quaint harbours, pastel coloured houses, ice creams, and curvy cobblestone streets.
If breakfast was a reason to return to a hotel, Marski by Scandic would probably be somewhere there on the list. This hotel that feels retro, comfortable and casual at once has become a central core for our short Helsinki trips.
Toronto is known for its versatile, independent, global food scene. And, as a natural evolution, in recent years the city has taken an invested interest in their coffee too. The revitalised third wave coffee scene and independent roasters mean you are never too far from an excellent cup of joe.
Surry Hills and Redfern are two Sydney neighbourhoods with local flair that have become up-to-the-minute hangouts. Neighbouring each other, it is easy to jump from one to another and spend a day eating fresh food, sipping excellent coffees, browsing small shops and strolling around leafy residential streets.
Chippendale is Sydney’s upcoming inner-city neighbourhood full of creative vibes. Small galleries, third wave coffee shops and innovative eateries make this urban, industrial infused neighbourhood a tasty, fun day out.
Zakynthos is a curious mixture of tacky tourist resorts and the most beautiful aspects of Greek Island life. Although its tourist hubs were out of our style and comfort, the island also offered us a blissed-out week to unwind, swim in the turquoise water and enjoy copious amounts of wine and fresh food.
North Park is a vibrant, creative enclave slightly off the beaten track. A beloved local hangout, the neighbourhood boasts an eclectic array of restaurants, phenomenal coffee, craft beer and indie shop.
Tiong Bahru, an Art Deco inspired neighbourhood, blends the old and the new. Traditional businesses, community market and hawker centre harmoniously coexist with trendy boutiques, vanguard eateries, and third wave coffee shops.
Framed by majestic mountains and vineyards, Stellenbosch boasts a relaxed small-town feel that revolves around wine culture. It also is a renowned university town, offering a perfect balance between old-world charm and lively youthful atmosphere.
Old Biscuit Mill is a beloved hangout for locals and visitors alike. Brimming with stalls of eclectic food and drinks, handcrafted gifts and local art, this is where the creative and gastronomic community of South Africa come together.
The Keong Saik Road area is a hive of energy and diversity in Singapore’s blooming food scene and cityscape. Beautiful heritage buildings host a plethora of eateries, bars and co-working spaces that offer a great mixture; old and new, east meets west, locals and expats, upscale and bargain.
A handful of independent, creative businesses and immaculately crafted coffee are breathing new life into Everton Park's maze-like, sleepy public housing apartment blocks. Nestled between historic shophouses and modern skyscrapers, walking along the area is like visiting many different eras at once.
Long Street, Bree Street and Kloof Street are three dynamic streets in the central Cape Town, teeming with independently owned businesses, eclectic eateries and diverse architecture. And the best; this trio hosts an amalgam of terraces to observe streetlife and energetic Capetonian vibes.
