Lisbon Story Guide

Lisbon is a magic sunny place, set on the Tagus river that leads to the ocean, the city is both breezy, cool and relaxed and buzzing with life. Great food, water everywhere and its proud, pleasant Portuguese inhabitants make it more than hospitable to foreigners and a real treat with its azulejos and miradouros. Also, around the city there is so much to see, be it Sintra and its Cabo da Roca, Cascais and the like.  Happy to share here the best places I discovered so far, to which I will keep on adding as it’s for sure a city to visit over and over again.

All the places mentioned below, are easy to retrieve on this LISBON STORY GUIDE map I created, previewed below.

FOOD & DRINKS 

Brunch with a view

The Mill
Yummy breakfast spot, laid back and let’s be honest, quite hipster. Avocado toast is delicious and nicely plated a’ la Jackson Pollock. I recommend their Coffee smoothie that was super tasty and kept me full and going for hours almost the rest of the day.

Lost In 
For the boho and ethnic lovers, this little cafe is hidden through an ethnic clothing shop, would say Indian, and opens into what feels as a secluded and hidden terrace with a view. Perfect to sit on the colorful chairs, sofas and swings with a drink of choice, tucked away from the busy streets outside.

Park Bar
On the top of a huge car park, this bar is perfect for rooftop sundowners and the best view over the Lisbon terra-cotta roofs.

Mercado Da Ribeira 
Also known as the Time Out Market. Delicious gourmet food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. The space is big but the crowd is pleasant and the food just delicious!

Madame Petisca 
Loved the Sunday brunch here. Full menu with both sweet and savory options, a terrace full of sunshine with river view and also a nice music selection. A true sweet spot!

Topo 
Nice rooftop bar in Chiado with a great view of the Lisbon terracotta rooftops. Can recommend their nachos & guacamole.

The Decadente 
Perfect dinner restaurant: nice music, interior, good wine and drinks, delicious food selection.

Lux Fragil 
The most popular club in Lisbon. The evening starts pretty late at around 3.30am.

Cafe Buenos Aires 
An Argentinian restaurant but still very popular in Lisbon. Had great food and wine, and can still remember their chocolate ice-cream in Port wine, soooo good!

Want to try: La Paparrucha, Largo, Pharmacia, Pavilhao Chines, Dear Breakfast, Hotel Mundial Rooftop Bar, Terrace Bar Bairro Alto Hotel, Sea Me Peixaria Moderna, Copenhagen Coffee Lab, The Insolito, A Chevicheria, Petiscaria Ideal, Pizzeria Casanova, Pensão Amor, Chapito, Atira-te ao Rio, Taberna Tosca, Bowl Lisboa, Tagide, Hello Kristof, Ponto Final,

TO VISIT 

Alfama

Bairro Alto
This is the “elevated” part of the city, with all the little streets to stroll along to, bars and restaurants and the most stunning rooftop views.

Alfama
The oldest district in Lisbon, that on this second trip stole my heart.

LX Factory 
Industrial complex hosting artsy ateliers, restaurants, cafes, shops and the like. On the hipster side, but good for all crowds!

MAAT 
Beautiful modern architecture, river-side. This is a great place to chill and relax with the best view. I have personally not been inside, so cannot comment on that, but the experience from the outside was wonderful!

Torre de Belem 
A must when strolling along the river.

Praça do Comércio 
Beautiful square opening up on the river.

Castelo de São Jorge 
Beautiful view on the city and a chance to listen to some fado music.

Miradouros
There are so many so called “miradouros” in Lisbon, literally viewpoints from which the sight spreads over terracotta rooftops,  the blue of the Tejo river, often coated by the magic Lisbon gold light. Some favorites: Miradouro de Santa Luzia, at the lovely Igreja de Santa Luzia in Alfama, Miradouro  das Portas do Sol, and the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. 

Want to visit/do: Champalimaud Foundation, Monsanto Forest Park, Miradouro da Graça, Sunset Cruise.

TO SHOP

Embaixada

Embaixada 
Small “department store” set within a stunning old building: a few restaurants and a few design stores mixing fashion, jewelry, beauty and interior. A great, unique experience!

Want to try: A Vida Portuguesa.

OUT & ABOUT

Pena National Palace in Sintra  
This castle in Sintra is places in a magic setting that to me looks like the forest of Beauty & The Beast. Such a magical, beautiful place: it’s worth to hike up to the highest point in the park, the High Cross,  which offers a great view of the palace.

Cabo da Roca
The most Western point in Europe, featuring a spectacular cliff and romantic lighthouse.

Praia do Guincho 
One of the windiest places I have been, but the sunset here was a treat.

Cascais 
Pretty village by the ocean, considered to be quite a wealthy area. It’s a 30 mins train ride from Libon and offers an ocean beach experience, along with nice fish restaurants and a pretty city centre. I did not get to try it, but would like to check out here this cafe featuring healthy fresh food in a bohemian atmosphere: Cafe Galeria House of Wonders.

TO STAY 

Have not tried any of these but they came out as the best options when researching: The Independente, Santiago de Alfama, Casa C’Alma, Hotel Valverde.

MORE PICS 

Avocado toast at The Mill

Praça do Comércio

Strolling around Lisbon

Chiado

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Lisbon Tram

Tegus River

All places can be found on the Lisbon Story Guide map here. 

The Warsaw Cool Guide

I am so incredibly happy to have discovered Warszawa, obscured by the more well known European capitals and some show-off neighbours. The city is a mix of old and new, a bit Berlin, a bit Paris, bubbling with creativity in every corner, being restaurants and going-out spots or new emerging brands and projects from an impressive breed of creatives gathering in the Polish capital. The coffee is on-point, the to do list never ending: Warsaw is perfect for an alternative weekend strolling around and discovering all the innovative spots it has to offer.

All the places mentioned below, are easy to retrieve on this WARSAW COOL GUIDE MAP I created, previewed below.

FOOD, COFFEE & DRINKS 

SAM 
Great coffee and healthy food. I recommend double espresso with their freshly made almond milk as well as their traditional Polish beetroot soup with baked potatoes. Who does not want to sip pink liquid for lunch? 😉

Charlotte Menora 
This breakfast spot is a Parisian oasis in the heart of Warsaw. Rattan chairs, marble round tables, a touch of green, nothing is more instagrammable (and delicious!) than a croissant and cappuccino accompanied by huge jars of delicious jams. The classic breakfast order comes with a basket of croissants and assorted breads as well as a choice of two spreads. Strawberry jam and white chocolate are a must, mmm!

Krem
Here goes another French touch (and the owner is indeed a French man!). This place is a personal favorite for the whole aesthetic mix of delicious food (had a great croque madame), minimal-chic meets quirky-casual interior and a very tasteful selection of music which is always appreciated.

Hala Koszyki
This is a food hall built in industrial style putting together a great array of stylish restaurants, kiosks and the like. A foodie heaven, and also good on the eye, for the architecture/interior design appreciators!

Zorza  
Great Gatsby vibes for this bar & restaurant. I tried here their “Zorza breakfast” with eggs, avocado & co and found it delicious. Being an interiorista, I fell in love with the space as well.

Klub SPATiF
A true sweet spot in the sense of the word, maybe even a personal Warsaw favorite. Delicious, healthy food, served in beautiful plates and glasses in original colours and designs. A reserved courtyard mixing wooden tables, plants and greens, with shiny plates and cutlery and upholstered chairs in vibrant prints. An artsy crowd. I loved their lemonade served in copper cups, and can highly recommend the lunch menu comprised of small portions but very carefully prepared meals, available for around 7 euros.

Lukullus
You can consider this as the Ladurée of Warsaw. Beautiful, eclectic design and packaging, plus good coffee, and of course pastries. I really enjoyed the Polish doughnut with rose jam.

Etno Cafe 
Pretty interior in scandi tones: acapulco chairs, cozy armchairs, pastel colours meeting tropical wallpaper. As in all the hyped Warsaw cafe, this place is not short of sophisticated coffee options, Ethiopian being a favorite, as well as their iconic Cold Brew bottles.

Regina Bar 
Quirky meets chic, pizza meets Asian. Regina Bar is one of my personal Warsaw favorites, undefinable, easy-going, for sure not boring. Had a delicious pizza with zucchini, with their special dough and lemonade (in Warsaw they know their lemonades too!) and enjoyed all the details from the interior and branding to the friendly service and its hip crowd.

Nocny Market 
Open Thursday to Saturday night, this is a great spot to experience food and music outdoors in an alternative atmosphere. Set in an old train station, actually literally on an old train track, this market is full of food kiosks, people of all sorts and ages, and live dj-sets. How cool is that!

Stor
Yet another great hipster Warsaw cafe, also featured in the lovely Varsavia Coffee Spots guide of great coffee spots in town. I here had one of great Warsaw flat whites and homemade granola.

Want to try: Wegemama, Odette Tea Room, Odette, MOMU, Ministerstwo Kawy, Melody, Palmier, MOD, Solec 44, La Sirena.

TO DO, MUSEUMS & LANDMARKS

Palace of Culture & Science

Palace of Culture & Science 
Very pretty park and a must-have picture for the Warsaw portfolio.

Want to visit: Botanical Garden of the University of Warsaw, The Neon Museum, Warsaw Old Town, Theatre Square.

SHOPPING & BRANDS

Lui Store

Lui Store 
Not only this fashion store has an amazingly aesthetic Instagram account, it also has a great interior design, and well, actual great brands, such as Attico, Rodarte and Jonathan Simkhai. The three things combined make it fashion heaven on Earth, and one of my personal favorite fashion boutiques, full stop. Actual selection is quite low, but exquisitely curated, which is both a visual pleasure and wallet-saving. Win-win!

Le Petit Trou 
French-inspired, Polish-founded lingerie brand set in a minimalist yet luxe environment with gold accents contrasting the darker lingerie pieces. The store also hosts bags and accessory brand Chylak, yet another example of great emergent Polish brands.

Momu 
E-commerce only, lovely embroidered t-shirts and illustrations!

Kopi 
Innovative jewellry and accessories.

Anders
Fashion brand: think Jane Birkin, Provence, French-girl chic vibes.

Label Magazine
Design and lifestyle magazine written in both Polish and English. Great visuals and editorials.

Want to shop: Supersalon, Cloudmine.

WHERE TO STAY

Want to stay: Autor Rooms, Puro

MORE VISUAL IMPRESSIONS

Hala Koszyki

Lui Store

Lui Store

Le Petit Trou Store

Regina Bar

Lemonade at Klub Spatif

Klub Spatif

Krem

Croque Madame at Krem

Etno Cafe

Cold Brew at Etno Cafe

All places can be found on the Warsaw Cool Guide map here.

Travel Inspiration – Paris

Paris is one of those cities everyone knows and loves, full of iconic places, immense history and a huge landmark of all things lifestyle from fashion to art to design and music. It is of course a city full of charm that I deeply love and am always happy to visit time and time again, making new discoveries, enjoying the diverse exhibitions and of course making a bit of stylish shopping. Below a list of my favorite places, and places I heard of and still want to try.

FOOD & DRINKS

Season Paris  – Lunch, coffee

Season is a lovely restaurant situated in the Marais. Atmosphere is relaxed, interior is spare, yet very stylish with rough walls and a minimal circular neon lighting. Highlight is the nutritious menu of healthy bowls full of veggie, quinoa, avocado, but also more varied dishes such as burritos and shakshuka.

1 Rue Charles-François Dupuis 

Très Particulier – drinks

This is one of my favorite spots in Paris, and a very Parisian one at that. Located in the Montmartre area, this bar is in a sort of hidden, beautiful street. The bar is part of the Hotel Très Particulier, a building once owned by the Hermès family. The entire place is somehow reserved and discrete, and it’s a favorite of movie stars such as as Tom Hanks and Scarlett Johansson. The interior is a wonder: black and white chequered floor, red velvet armchairs and touches of green giving it the greenhouse feeling. The indoor bathroom is a place interiorista can crush on, as stylish as any bathroom may be. Cocktails and baristas are on fleek.

23, avenue Junot, Pavillon D

Marcel – dinner

Marcel is another one of my Parisian favorites. There are a few locations in town, all of them with Marcel’s signature interior: grey walls, light bulbs illumination. Minimal, industrial and cool. Menu is varied and the atmosphere relaxed.

15 Rue de Babylone or 1 Villa Léandre

Monsier Bleu – lunch, dinner 

I was lucky to visit this beautiful restaurant for work, shooting its interior. I cannot recommend the food, as I have not tried it, but the interior design is a wonder! Located at the Palais The Tokyo, it is the art deco inspired work of one of my favorite architects, Joseph Dirand. It has enormous ceilings, black marble walls and green velvet seats. So fancy and luxurious, yet somehow also very discreet and not ostentatious. Oh, and not to be forgotten. It has THE view of the Tour Eiffell from is terrace. 

20 Avenue de New York

Café de Flore – breakfast, coffee

“Le Flore” is a Parisian must, as over-priced as it unfortunately is, one cannot miss a copy of Le Monde, a croissant and café in this landmark Parisian spot.

172 Boulevard Saint-Germain

Water Bar – Colette – lunch, coffee

Colette being one of the best concept stores out there, I really enjoy their Water Bar downstairs. This café/restaurant is, as the name says, famous for its insane selection of water types and brands. Though a bit on the expensive side, I really enjoyed their Croque Madame with elegantly styled salad, as well as the quirky wall art and set-up of of the place.

213 Rue Saint-Honoré

Le Night Flight  – drinks

This is the bar of Hotel Le Bachaumont, located in the super nice area of Montorgueil. It serves delicious cocktails, most famous one being the one bearing the bar’s name, Night Flight. The interior is as cool as the adjacent restaurant and hotel. The crowd is young and lively.

18 Rue Bachaumont

Other: Très Honoré, Chez Chartier, Ladurée, L’As du Fallafel, Le Loir dans la Theière, PNY Marais.

Want to try: Holybelly, Paper Boy, Angelina, Restaurant Le Bachaumont, Ob-La-Di, Hemingway Bar, Kong, Hotel Amour, Loulou.

HOTELS

Hotel Eugène en Ville

Though the interior style is not my favorite, this hotel deserves to be mentioned for the special design and comfortable experience. The interior is intensely dark, most walls of the purest black, and subtly ornamented around the character of “Eugène”, while maintaining very elegant standards. The French breakfast is delicious, the linens soft and the reception kind and helpful. While quite expensive, it is very easy to find good offers, which makes it an affordable option for most.

6 Rue Buffault

Hotel Providence 

This is definitely one of the most stylish hotels in Paris, from a design point of view especially. It is a favorite of Garance Doré, and very rightly so. The lobby and restaurant is characterized by a very traditional and somehow old atmosphere, countered and accentuated by rock music and a youthful team of waiters and hotel concierge. The rooms are each decorated in a different style, and the true highlight here is the Suite. Here, the entire walls are decorated in a palm-tree-motif House of Hackney wallpaper, which makes one feel in a secluded jungle. The suite has a wonderful bar corner, with all the shiny tools to make oneself a delicious cocktail, as well as a vinyl player that continues the motif of  The ensuite bathroom is entirely tiled in light marble, has a beautiful standalone bathtub and breathtaking rooftops view, showing Montmartre in the background.

90 Rue René Boulange

Hotel Le Bachaumont 

This hotel is probably one of my favorite spots in terms of interior design. The style is hard to describe in a few words, but it boils down to elegant, chic, modern, without being overly affected. Located in a quite and secluded Montorgueil street, the hotel also has a bar (Le Night Flight) and a restaurant frequented by outside crowds. The restaurant is decorated with a wide selection of Gubi chairs, as are the rooms and the rest of the hotel. A true interior crush.

18 Rue Bachaumont

Other: Hotel Henriette.

Want to try: Le Roch, Hotel Jules et Jim, Hotel Pariculier, Hotel Amour.

SHOPPING & CO

Colette – concept store

Colette is THE concept store. Beautiful fashion, colourful objects, books books books, exclusive beauty brands, jewellery and an amazing Water Bar downstairs. It’s the best of everything cool, chic and edgy.

213 Rue Saint Honoré

Le Bon Marché – department store

One could say the world is now full of department stores collecting luxury brands and all sorts of shopping category. Still, Le Bon Marché is high on the list of personal favorites (together with Liberty in London), because of its beautiful interior & architecture, and the curation of spaces which makes the whole place look less massive and more of a collection of small beautiful retail corners. I was particularly stricken by The Library, which collects beautiful books, as well as their whole Home category. This was the first ever modern department store, existing since 1838! 

24 Rue de Sèvres

Merci – interior store

Merci is primarily an interior store, and so cool at that! The whole space has a cool vibe to it, you would likely find nice tunes playing from their collection of Marshall speakers (on sale, of course), and some small installations here and there. One can find all the possible decoration items, and the style tends to be more alternative and laid back than glamorous. The entrance has a famous red 500 car welcoming the guests, and next to it one can also find an artsy café designed as a library serving fresh meals and refreshing drinks.

111 Boulevard Beaumarchais

The Conran Shop – interior store

The Conran Shop is an interior store focused on well-known interior design pieces and brands. On top of its own By Conran collection, one can find beautiful designs by brands such as Gubi, Eames etc.

117 Rue du Bac

Shakespeare & Co – bookstore

Hardly a better place to be, Shakespeare & Co has got to be the most beautiful library (at least for Fiction & Non-Fiction) in the world. Situated on the shore of the Seine, just in front of Notre-Dame, this little old English bookstore is a paradise for bookworms, full of history and charm. The original store, was in fact a gathering place for the great expat writers such as Joyce, Hemingway, and Fitzgerald. Writers, artists, and intellectuals were invited to sleep among the shop’s shelves and piles of books.

37 rue de la Bûcherie

Les Mariages Frères – tea

Existing since 1854, these teas are unbelievably fancy and delicious, their stores even more so. My personal favorite is called Marco Polo, but one can find so many exotic and non- blends collected in beautiful jars and boxes.

Various locations in Paris 

Want to try: Sézane, Buly

SEE & DO

Grand Palais

Le Grand Palais is not only a beautiful, majestic building, a palace indeed, but also displays some of the most extensive, beautiful and complete exhibitions in the city. Ever got the feeling of going to see an exhibition of an important artist only to be presented 2-3 major artworks and then a ****load of sketches and memorabilia? This won’t happen at the Grand Palais, the gigantic exhibition space and the high quality curatorial team make space for the most fantastic exhibitions.

3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower

Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is set in an old train station, which adds to the charm of the space. It normally features big and high quality exhibitions as the Grand Palais does, but on top of this has a great permanent collection of beloved Impressionist artworks. A must see!

1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur

Montmartre & Le Sacre Coeur

Montmartre & Le Sacre Coeur are in my opinion a symbol of Paris much more than the Tour Eiffel. The “butte” (hill) of Montmartre has traditionally been a place for artists, painters, creatives. The little streets are lined with small cafes, boutique and all sorts of artsy corner, while the Sacre Coeur Cathedral is a white architectural dream. Climbing up to it while offer beautiful views over Paris.

35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre

Le Marais

Le Marais is a neighbourhood full of little streets, shops, cafes, restaurants. It’s the trendiest area of Paris, and it’s so much more cozy and comfortable to navigate than bigger commercial areas such as the Champs Elysées or the Opéra area.

Other: L’Orangerie, Montorgeuil.

Want to try: Centre Pompidou, Palais de Tokyo, Gloss’Up, Opéra Garnier.

Photos:
My iPhone 6S shots

Travel Inspiration – Marrakech

Marrakech is a must see for any style lover out there. The city is vibrant in colors and harmonious in their composition. Endless sand buildings and rooftops, spots of soft green with palm trees everywhere and a stunning border circling it out: snow-capped Atlas mountains.

The city is bustling and full of life in the Medina, yet offers the perfect oasis of rest in its varied Riads. Also, most restaurants and gardens are truly magic, with their smells, variety of plants, decoration and calm.

While one cannot miss the typical tourist sights: souks, Medina tours, buildings and cultural attractions, the true Marrakech lifestyle can be experienced at its best when knowing the right spots to eat, relax, take in all the #Moho (Moroccan Boho) beauty. Below, my top picks and to dos:

#1 -Visit Jardin Majorelle

Yves Saint Laurent used to reside here with his partner Pierre Bergé and the two got to create an outstanding garden. One can see all sorts of exotic plants coming from all corners of the world, building a perfect cocktail of perfumes that inebriate. The place is also cool, calm and a perfect pool of visual inspiration. The house has a striking blue and yellow combination, and the blue dominating in the garden and outdoor elements has gotten because of this the name of Blue Majorelle.

#2 – Stay in a Riad in the Medina 

While outside the Medina one can find charming and luxurious hotels, the best way to get a feel of Marrakech is to stay in the heart of it and sleep in the varied and very typical Riads. Riads are oasis of peace, calm, coolness. They each have their own unique style and appeal, but also many elements in common. Normally you can find gorgeous courtyards with open roofs, a rooftop terrace, sometimes a swimming pool. They are decorated with typical Moho elements and colours. Low couches with colorful pillows, silver trays, vibrant carpets, all sorts of green plants, candles. They also smell amazing, with essential oils ranging from orange flowers to jasmine.  Researching and picking one is the best part of booking a trip to Marrakech, as the interior pictures offer a truly dreamy preview of the trip. You can find a collection of good quality Marrakech Riads here.

#3 – Have lunch at Le Jardin 

Le Jardin is a veritable green oasis in the middle of the Medina. Quite literally, a garden. Palm and green leaves, the occasional turtle walking around the tables, tiles, the typical straw hats hanging around most eating spots in Marrakech make for a stylish yet laid back atmosphere. Food is unsurprisingly delicious ranging from tagine to salads with fresh veggies and fruits also adding to refreshing juices and mock-tails.

#4 –  Collect visual inspiration at Palais Bahia 

Both architecture and interiors in Marrakech are blessed with vibrant colours and a vegetation that brings perfume and texture to all environments. Palais Bahia is a perfect example of this, where one can admire tile work, the strong blues and warm yellows colour combinations, outdoor areas and courtyards filled with all sorts of plants and interesting visual corners at every turn.

#5 – Treat yourself at La Mamounia

Treat yourself and spend a day at La Mamounia. One can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pools, sauna, spa, delicious lunch, dinner and drinks in its various restaurants and bars. The outdoor swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and elegant waiters dressed in white is the perfect place to catch some sun in quiet, while the indoor pools have an admirable interior, where once can truly blow off some steam. For a drink, one can choose between different bars, but the truly enchanting one is the Bar Italien: burgundy velvet, jazz music. Wherever the eye rests, one finds timeless elegance here.

#6-  Take a break at Café des Épices

One of the most famous Marrakech cafes, Café des Épices overlooks the lively Place des Épices just opposite of Nomad. Here you can choose to settle in one of the different floors or on the terrace and enjoy the bliss of Wi-Fi together with the meal or snack of your choice, such as a fresh orange juice or a healthy salads with veggies in all colours of the rainbow. Such a true Marrakech experience that cannot be missed, as the café truly pulses with the rhythm of the Medina..

#7 – Escape the city at La Pause in the Agafay Desert 

The Marrakech Medina is an intense experience made of colourful, dusty, busy streets, bustling noise, miriads of people and diverse smells and visual impressions. Such activity really calls for a balancing break, and there is nothing better than a visit to the nearby Agafay desert to truly escape it all. La Pause is an enchanting resort in the middle of the desert that offers the best experience of this unique environment. No electricity here, but instead a true oasis, with beautiful outdoor spots and a selection of offers ranging from meals, an overnight stay, quads, horse riding and camel rides.

Photos: 
My iPhone 6s shots

Sweet Spot – Jardin Majorelle

When reviewing the places that truly left a mark during my recent trip to Marrakech, Jardin Majorelle undoubtedly stands out as a place of luscious green and colourful beauty. It is a truly magic place. Yves Saint Laurent used to reside here with his partner Pierre Bergé and the two went on to give life to an outstanding garden.

You can see all sorts of exotic plants coming from all corners of the world, building a perfect cocktail of perfumes that will inebriate you. The place is also cool, calm and the perfect pool of visual inspiration.

The house has a stricking blue and yellow combination, and the blue dominating in the garden and outdoor elements has gotten the name of Blue Majorelle.

Photos: 
My iPhone 6s shots

Travel Inspiration – Milan

Milan is a big-grey-business-city meets sunny-sidestreets full of elegant people, cafes and restaurants, colourful shops and lots of life. Here a small selection of my local favourites. For convenient address retrieval, pictures and reviews, you can check out my Milan Foursquare list.

FOOD & DRINKS

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Temakinho

Japanese-Brazilian fusion. Sushi meets exotic flavors and oh so fresh Caipirinhas. Main locations in Milan are Brera (featuring the great tropical wallpaper that was all the rage the past months) and the smaller but charming spot in Navigli. Love Salmao Gostoso, Mango Caipirinha and the Maracuja cheesecake. Currently available in Milan, Rome and Ibiza. Waiting for it to open somplace else!

Fonderie Milanesi

A touch of countryside in the middle of the city. Perfect for wine and aperitivo, a relaxed and alternative break spot.

Dry 

A cool spot for drinks, but also very good pizza!

Carlo e Camilla in Segheria

Such an amazing spot, full of charm and coolness. The cuisine is very special and refined, the cocktails on point, the interior and atmosphere is a design masterpiece.

Officina12

I love the big city vibe of this restaurant, its American Bar, its Navigli location and their Pizza Albachiara is my favourite.

Biancolatte

Country, shabby-chic, white interiors that just call for a picture and a lunch, breakfast, snack menu so inviting! Can only imagine spending here hours and hours chatting with friends or indulging in pure Italian pleasures.

Princi

THE Milan bakery. The best focaccias, and all things bread and pastry. Now also available abroad, really enjoyed the spot in London.

T.O.M.

Cool industrial interior vibes, healthy food options and a tasty and convenient lunch menus. Absolutely love their branding, and their visit card is a must-have!

Damm’atrà

For those who want to try Milanese cuisine in a very traditional yet stylish setting. In the Tortona area.

Terrazza Aperol

One of the best views of the Duomo cathedral and square, sipping the iconic orange drink lying in an Acapulco chair in the sunrays. Priceless.

Marchesi

Iconic “pasticceria”, all in Prada green. It’s the Ladurée of Milan, situated in Via Montenapoleone and buzzing with the cool and fancy Milan crowd. The second location is in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and is indeed part of the Prada store, with a beautiful view over the Galleria.

Other: Cioccolatitaliani, California Bakery, Otto, L’Ov.

Want To Try: Pavè, Café Radetzky, Di Viole Di Liquirizia, Pandenus, Fancytoast, The Botanical Club, Soul Green, Ravioleria Sarpi.

SHOPPING

10 Corso Como

One of the most wonderful shopping spaces in Milan. It combines an urban jungle outside area, café, an art gallery featuring beautiful exhibitions, a bookstore, and a fashion and design space characterised by a unique style and set-up.

Via Montenapoleone & Via della Spiga

The luxury streets of Milan. Seems kind of obvious and uninteresting, but these streets are just so charming with the glossy windows of the high end shops. Worthy also for a stop at the historical Pasticceria Cova, their windows alone are so inviting! They also have the best Panettone (traditional Christmas cake).

La Rinascente

Great collection of all sorts of designers. Grab a coffee or aperitivo on the 5th floor of La Rinascente, for a premium view of the Duomo spires. The Obika restaurant is a good choice for a meal, but the open air cafe, even better on sunny days.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
Love walking around here. The floors, the shop windows of iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci, Borsalino. The beautiful light reflecting all over.

SEE & DO

Duomo Rooftop
Duomo is an attraction in and of itself, but the best part of the cathedral is its top! You can get lost through the spires, discover amazing corners, angles, architectural details and take stunning pictures of the city, the neighbourhood and why not, strike a pose for some enviable pictures of you and your friends. Priceless. Get inspired by the amazing pictures of Chiara Ferragni and other bloggers who have crossed that path before.

Brera

Brera is the most authentic and historical Milan neighbourhood. The little street host the Design District during Salone del Mobile, lovely cafes, artisanal shops, and just the real Milan elegant-yet-cool vibe.

Ticinese & Colonne di San Lorenzo

This area is hip and cool, with lots of bars, aperitivo choices and interesting clothes shops. Take a break at the Colonne, meaning, literally stop at the columns in front of the San Lorenzo church and enjoy the ‘hood.

Teatro La Scala

Worth it if you make it inside for a show. Stunning theatre, with so much glorious history.

Navigli

Navigli are Milan’s charming canals, full of bars and restaurants, full of local charm and nightlife.

Parco Sempione & Castello Sforzesco

Very nice to walk around the castle and there are nice bars and restaurants around “Arco della Pace” behind the castle.

Pinacoteca di Brera

Pinacoteca di Brera hosts Leonardo da Vinci’s “Ultima Cena”, but more importantly, it features a beautiful courtyard that lets you feel truly immersed in art and history.

Museo del Novecento

This new museums in Piazza del Duomo is just beautiful. Admire it from outside or venture in its futuristic interiors.

Palazzo Reale

Also in Piazza del Duomo, features great temporary exhibitions, check the current one at the time of your visit!

La Triennale 

Design and big name exhibitions.

Other: Cimitero Monumentale.

Want To Try: MUDEC, Fondazione Prada. 

Getaway: Lago di Como 

Approximately 1 hour, super cheap train ride from Cadorna, you can get to escape to one of the most elegant and charming Lake areas in Italy. Lago di Como has attracted various celebrities such as George Clooney, and the area does not lack wonderful villas to admire from the shore, like Villa del Balbianello, or during a ride across the lake. A boat tour is the perfect way to enjoy the view on a sunny day.

Photos:

My iPhone 6S shots

Brand Love – 7 Reasons to Love Glossier

Glossier Brand Dotcom great cigarette packaging

Glossier boxes

Glossier moodboard

Glossier products

Glossier inspiration

Oh, so you thought this year was all about Rose Quartz (and Serenity, the Pantone Colours of 2016), right? Wrong. It’s all about #GlossierPink.

Glossier, is the coolest beauty brand around, founded by Emily Weiss of Into The Gloss. The product line is just blooming and very limited (so want to try the Milky Jelly Cleanser and their Balm Dotcom exclusively available on Net-A-Porter). They don’t ship to Europe currently, but are working to go International.

The brand is so there and ready though, here some reasons to love this brand:

#1 Their Instagram

It’s all about Glossier Pink, and the inspiration behind the brand, its aesthetics, its creative values. It’s 90s bubblegum, meet Spring pastels, meet baby pink, meet your dreamiest girly inspiration. Like this.

#2 Their Hashtag Strategy

Into The Gloss and Glossier really get right hashtags as a way to brand and categorize content. Check out their #GetReadyWithMe (#GRWM) video series with the morning and beauty routines of the ITG gang and their #ITGTopShelfie series, where Instagram users can share a pick of their beauty cabinet and get featured, as well as more in-depth articles on Into The Gloss about the routines of inspiring, stylish women. They get community right and really understand what their beauty passionate users are looking for and crave to see. And also how to communicate and engage with them, get them into the brand.

#3 Their Packaging

Their branding is highlighted on their packaging. Cute boxes with the dreamiest font. The nice G logo (hey, I love Gs!). The plastic make-up bag that will become a trend product in itself. See here.

#4 Their Videos

Their videos and tutorials are just great. Quirky, real, insightful. They really make you want to try the products, and be the cool chick that wears them. Watch for yourself here.

#5 Their Brand Collaborations 

Branding, branding, branding. This nail polish style has become all the rage, fitting the colour and aesthetics of Glossier and is a a great example of a successful and high quality brand collaboration. They just get it right!

#6 Their Website

Oh, and also their website and visual identity. They have cute emojis and symbols accompanying the user experience, activating as mouse-over effect etc, like the smiley/shaking hand combo.

#7 Their Team

Glossier and Into The Gloss have a great team of interesting and stylish women, and they bring them to the forefront, weaving their personality into the brand. Their profiles always appear on articles, and they get special features such as the #GRWM Category and other videos. This is a great way to speak to a certain type of woman, by presenting the women who live the brand and embody it personally.

Links:
Glossier Website
Instagram
Into The Gloss

Photos:
Glossier Website, Blog & Instagram

Brand Love – Mansur Gavriel on Instagram

Mansur Gavriel Instagram nature shots.

Mansur Gavriel pink shades on Instagram

Mansur Gavriel Instagram Half Moon Clutch

Perfect shot of Mansul Gavriel Bucket Bag on their Instagram

Lovely colour scheme on Mansur Gavriel Instagram

The Mansur Gavriel Instagram account is pure perfection. It’s a piece of art, collecting perfectly composed colour schemes, a retro feel touch, high quality photo shoots with models that perfectly represent the brand. A touch of red nail polish. Peep toe shoes. Pink, salmon, orange backgrounds. Still nature in both faded and juicy shades, ranging from fruits and flowers to green leaves staged against neutral backgrounds. Perfectly styled handbags and shoes, eye catchers, like art gallery pieces.

The Instagram account is the perfect wordless expression of the brand’s aesthetic. It speaks clearly about the quality of the craftsmanship and the visual values that tie it all together with a perfect knot. All shots are arranged in harmonic yet never boring order, that perfectly fall together. One look only, and one knows it’s an account to follow and never leave. Check it out here.

Links:
Mansur Gavriel Website
BoF – “How Mansur Gavriel Created the first Post-Recession It Bag”

Photos:
© Mansur Gavriel Instagram

Travel Inspiration – Rome

The Italian capital has nothing but endless, historical, artistic, culinary charm to offer. It embodies THE quintessential Italian lifestyle, and with so many iconic sights, it certainly doesn’t run short of sweet spots to visit, relax, load up on delicious food and enjoy la Dolce Vita. Below, higlights and personal favorites, as well as places I still would like to try.

FOOD & DRINKS 

View from the terrace of The First Art Luxury Hotel

Bar del Fico – aperitivo, dinner

A very nice place for the Italian tradition of aperitivo, where one can have a glass of wine or a drink of choice and stuff themselves with a mountain of food. Bar del Fico is in the beautiful area of Piazza Navona, has a cozy and stylish interior and a very nice food selection, also recommended for a dinner.

Piazza del Fico, 26/28

Il Margutta – coffee, brunch

Just behind Piazza del Popolo, Via Margutta is a quaint little street full of those little heartbreaking sights: colourful buildings, flowers, bikes. Il Margutta is an artsy cafe, where on a Sunday one can enjoy a delicious Vegan brunch for a fixed price, accompanied by live piano  music. Such a delight!

Via Margutta, 118

Ginger – breakfast, lunch, coffee

For those who cannot live without their Açaì bowl, Ginger is the right place. The elegant white interiors are marked by little corners loaded up with fruits and veggies, signalling the healthy and sustainable style of the place. The restaurant is situated in one of Rome’s best little streets, Via Borgognona, and it is extremely popular. Expect a big crowd.

Via Borgognona, 43-46

Angelina – lunch, coffee, aperitivo

Angelina is a cafe and restaurant situated a few meters from the Fontana di Trevi. Interiors are soft, relaxed and cozy, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy an aperitivo, a coffee, or the break of your choice.

Via Poli, 27

Emma – dinner

The best pizza in Rome. Period. Thin and (high quality) oily, try the pizza SuperBio which as the name says it’s all done with organic ingredients and is some sort of “elevated” Pizza Margherita, with mozzarella di bufala. Must-try starters of choice are Supplí al telefono, which are wonderful fry dough pieces filled with rice, mozzarella and tomatoes.  Finally, opt for the Scomposta di cannolo siciliano for dessert.  You will not be sorry!

Via del Monte della Farina, 28

Club Derrière  – drinks

This secret not-so-secret bar just behind the Osteria delle Coppelle is a secluded, dark, little bar full of charm and serving fancy delicious cocktails in a relaxed and an ever so intellectual speakeasy atmosphere. Cocktail of choice: English Pie Highlight: bathroom hidden behind what seems like a serious sturdy library, just shove and slide the library to access it.

Vicolo delle Coppelle, 59 (Centro Storico)

The First Art Luxury Hotel – drinks

This 5-star Boutique Hotel located just behind Piazza del Popolo has one of Rome’s best terraces. A beautiful view of the city from the top, with a stunning shot of San Pietro makes one truly feel in the elegant heart of Rome. Perfect for aperitivo, drinks come with delicious snacks and canapés.

Via del Vantaggio, 14 

Want to try: Temakinho Rome, Mani in Pasta. 

SPOTS & SIGHTS

The Trevi Fountain

La Fontana di Trevi

Oh, the world, the great European capitals especially, is pretty much full of fountains, isn’t it? What is special about a fountain that can make it so famous? Well, I sometimes I have asked myself this when visiting Rome, and yet as soon as the little streets start leading in a perfectly staged way to this glorious monument, excitement arises. The Trevi fountain is simply breathtaking. No other words to describe it. The work done by Fendi in restructuring it is admirable, as nowadays one is greeted by a monumental sparkling white ensemble, the statues so fine and alive, the water so delicately blue. The Fendi fashion show staged at the Fontana, has perfectly rendered homage to all its charm and beauty.

Piazza del Popolo 

This is one of those open spaces that simply warms your heart. Take a hike to the top of for a magic view of the Piazza.

Colosseo & Fori Romani 

Walking around the Colosseum and the Fori, is one of those unique experiences that cannot be replicated in any other space on this planet. The atmosphere is almost eerie, and the presence and history of the Roman Empire is strong. While the Colosseum is an a beautiful and imposing view from the outside, I don’t recommend visiting the inside as it’s quite overcrowded with tourist and its magic is lost.

Piazza di Spagna & Via dei Condotti  

One of the most beautiful Roman squares, marked by the Spanish Steps, from which begins one of the most beautiful and fashionable streets of Rome, Via dei Condotti, which is a beautiful street per se, beyond the luxury stores crowding it. In the parallel street Via Borgognona one can find more affordable stores such as COS and & Other Stories. Also nearby, the wonderful Palazzo Valentino.

Piazza Navona

Yet another beautiful, historical square, full of dolce vita. Particularly love this for the vicinity to many bars and restaurants.

Other:  Castel Sant’Angelo, San Pietro. 

ART & ABOUT

Maxxi Museum from Zaha Hadid

The Maxxi Museum 

The Maxxi is a Contemporary Art museum that offers a great architectural space in the capital to enjoy at leisure. The area in front of the museum opens like a secluded but spacious piazza. The museum is designed by the great Zaha Hadid and architecturally speaking is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Museum Café and Restaurant opposite the main exposition area has an outdoor space where one can see many young Roman students going about their readings, and people relaxing and catching some sun. The restaurant has a great modern interior and offers a delicious buffet lunch, making for the perfect add to a museum visit.

Via Guido Reni, 4/A

Photos: 
My iPhone 6s shots

Travel Inspiration – Mainau & Konstanz

Bodensee, or Lake Constance is a very special lake situated between three countries: Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The area definitely has a riviera feeling: lots of flowers everywhere, a relaxed pace, sweet shops, cafes, restaurants and interiors, the water, the gentle breeze. What makes Bodensee really stunning is also undoubtedly the view of snow-capped mountains in the background, which call for a sigh at every glimpse.s local white wine.

Just approximately 30 minutes from Konstanz and reachable by bus or ferry, is the island of Mainau, also very appropriately named the “Flower Island”.  Here one finds an endless collection of blooms, a greenhouse, a butterfly house and lots of small attractions all revolving around the themes of nature, gardening, botanics.

Below some visual impressions of Mainau and a few addresses in Konstanz that can make the trip worth your while:

Addresses in Konstanz

Umami 

Wonderful industrial chic interior, delicious sushi selection as well as local white wine. Can really recommend the Tempura Garnelen and Mango and Coconut ice cream as dessert.

Holly’s 

Holly’s is a restaurant and interior shop situated by the river. It has a very cool maritime slash eccentric interior and one feels truly on holiday here. Great burgers, salads, ice-cream and nice selection of lemonades.

Cafe Ignaz 

Last but not least is Cafe Ignaz. Here we had a figs and goat cheese Flammkuchen with delicious Riesling.

Impressions of Mainau 

Relaxed island views

Magic trees, magic leaves

Bursts of pink blooms

Tulips fields

Captivating Leaves

Orchids in the Greenhouse

Photos:
My iPhone6 Shots