Relaxing in beautiful Budapest

Hey Guys!

So earlier this year in November I took a break with my boyfriend to Budapest to celebrate our 1 year anniversary together! 

We stayed in a stunning Airbnb which was within walking distance to all the main attractions, it made a nice change to a hotel as I feel we had a more authentic experience and it was nice to have the added independence. Although we rented the entire apartment to ourselves our hosts family picked us up from the airport for the same price as a taxi. It gave us an added peace of mind as we were arriving late and was a kind gesture. As well as the apartment being close to the centre it was well equipped with everything we would need to cook our own meals, however we found Budapest to be really cheap so ended up eating out most nights! 

I would definitely recommend trying Hungarian food whilst in Budapest! It’s such a great opportunity to dive into the culture and a lot of the local restaurants sell this at great prices so there’s plenty of chances to try this! Kisharang Etkezede is somewhere I can’t recommend enough for traditional Hungarian food! 

If you love ice cream be sure to visit Gelarto Rosa, right near St Stephen’s Basilica. Despite being close to one of the main tourist hotspots an ice cream there will only set you back a few pounds and whilst being a work of art in themselves, they are also delicious. 

It’s also worth visiting St Stephen’s Basilica whilst in Budapest. It’s a stunning building both inside and out and again is very cheap to go right up to the top to get some gorgeous views over the city. 

Budapest is known for it’s thermal baths and after visiting I can see why. We visited Gellert Baths which was also very popular with locals. It’s a slightly pricier attraction but it’s very easy to spend the whole day there like we did. There’s a variety of baths to choose from with temperatures up to 40 degrees, as well as a steam room and sauna included in the price. 

We also made a trip to the central market hall whilst in Budapest where I ate the biggest burger I’ve ever seen! It was delicious but I couldn’t get through it all! The market is a great place to experience the culture in Budapest whilst also picking up some souvenirs! 

When I was researching Budapest I was constantly coming across the same thing, “you have to see parliament building at night!” Luckily this was only a short walk from our apartment and it was beautiful to see it all lit up. We went there before heading to one of the famous ruin bars in Budapest, Szimpla Kert which is again a must do when travelling to the city! 

Towards the end of the week we was becoming a little tired from constantly being on the go but we didn’t let that stop us! We took the funicular up to the castle where we were then able to stroll around a lot of the area free of charge. It’s a nice way to spend the best part of a day and again gave us some incredible views of the city. 

We also explored the fisherman’s bastion whilst there which was a great experience. It’s definitely worth a visit to see the stunning architecture Budapest has to offer!

We did spend another day relaxing and taking in some of the sights. We visited the Christmas market in Vorosmarty Square and went on a walk around the city in some of it’s parks. On our last day we had our suitcases with us so we didn’t want to do too much, we took a river cruise down the Danube where we learnt more about the history of Budapest whilst seeing the city from a different angle. 

Overall we had a fantastic stay in Budapest which is now one of my favourite places in the world and I can’t wait to visit again!

J x

A cosy night in with Popcorn Shed!

Hey Guys!

So the nights have started to draw in now we’re heading into winter which means there’s no better time to snuggle up on the sofa with a blanket a good film and of course no movie night would be complete without popcorn!

I recently came across Popcorn Shed, an award winning brand of gourmet popcorn and had the privilege of being able to work with them on this post. I tried several different flavours or their popcorn and my favourite was definitely the salted caramel (you have to get it!) closely followed by the Pop N Choc! As you can tell, I’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth! 

One thing that stood out to me was the branding. The packaging is so different to that of the simple packets of popcorn that I’ve picked up in the past and is definitely one of the things that makes them such an iconic brand. The ‘shed’ theme of the packaging and the unique design of each individual flavour is so creative and gives a personalised feel. 

Originally set up by two cousins, Laura and Sam, Popcorn Shed has grown to be any award winning company (and did actually start in their garden shed!) 

You’ll be pleased to know that all their popcorn is made from natural ingredients with a strong focus on innovation, flavour balance and texture combinations. The passion that Laura and Sam have for Popcorn is evident from the moment you visit their website and I can of course say first hand how delicious every bite of Popcorn was! 

But don’t just take my word for it! You can see the exciting range of flavours Popcorn Shed have to offer by visiting their site today and following them on social media!

@popcornshed on Instagram and Twitter!

J x

21st birthday in Prague

Hey guys,

So I was recently lucky enough to spend my 21st birthday in Prague! It’s such an amazing city with so much to do and absolutely beautiful architecture! We stayed at the Ibis Hotel in Wenceslas Square which was also in walking distance to all the main attractions!

We spent the first part of our holiday familiarising ourselves with the area and seeing famous landmarks like the Old Town, Charles Bridge and Astronomical Clock. We even went up the clock tower which gave us beautiful views of the city and is definitely worth doing! We could even see the inside workings of the clock tower which was a special experience. There is also a lift so don’t worry about having to do a lot of stairs either!

Prague is a city known for its food and whilst I can’t say I’m a big foodie (sorry!) even I couldn’t resist trying to Trdelnik. I got one with Mango ice cream in and whilst I couldn’t manage it all, it was simply delicious! 

As you’ll see from our photos we was welcomed with wonderful weather in Prague which we really weren’t expecting so it was a lovely treat for it to feel like summer in October! Something that we both really wanted to do was see the castle grounds and although the walk up the hill was tiring the views were simply amazing. We didn’t even have to go into the castle itself admire the surroundings. We went into part of the cathedral which whilst it was busy, was still a special addition to the trip. 

Later on we made a small detour to go and see the Lennon Wall. It wasn’t until the next day that I read the history behind this and I found it really inspiring. It’s great to see something that has been admired so much and that fans across the world have contributed to in some way. It was also in this area that we found a nice restaurant where we sat outside to have our evening meal. 

For my birthday we had breakfast in the hotel before heading to a market that I had been looking forward to. The market on the (A)Void only happens once a month but it was a great experience. We mixed with locals whilst we browsed food, clothes and antiques and my boyfriend treated me to a brown leather jacket which I have now fallen in love with. It’s definitely a market worth doing if you get the chance. We also headed a bit further out to Prague Market later in the day which I have to admit was a downside to our trip for me. This wasn’t helped by the bad experience we had with Uber at the time also but if you want to see the outskirts of Prague it might be for you. 

During the day we also went on the pedal boats. I know it seems like quite a cliche tourist thing to do but i personally really enjoyed it, they were very reasonably priced and we got to relax away from the crowds whilst still being in the centre and getting a unique view of the Charles Bridge and enjoyed lunch whilst listening to music by the river. 

We had a quick browse around the Jewish Quarter later in the day too, it was definitely all very much out of our budget but worth doing to see a different side to Prague and how people live. 

To finish off the day we then went for Pizza and a few drinks at a nearby pub but we was all so exhausted from the busy few days before that we had a relatively early night. 

On our last day we collected up all our belongings and suitcases but didn’t want to venture far as we knew we had a flight to catch. We relaxed in a nearby park for a large duration of the day, taking everything in and soaking up the wonderful few days. 

In a couple weeks I’m excited to say that we will both be heading to BUDAPEST to celebrate a year together. Whilst I may try solo travel one day, for now I love nothing more than making memories together that will last a lifetime. 

Another blog post coming soon! 

J x

Dealing with Scoliosis pain with Pernaton

Hey Guys,

So a bit more of a serious post today. Some of you will already know that I have suffered with Scoliosis from the age of  12. Unfortunately this comes with a fair amount of various aches and pains. I have tried so much pain relief over the years and really want to try and avoid taking tablets for it, it only stops the pain for a short amount of time and it’s also not healthy as a long term plan. 

I recently came across a brand called Pernaton and was keen to try this out, I contacted them and  together we worked on what the best solution would be. 

I reviewed two of their products a cooling gel and a heat sensation gel. I definitely loved the heat gel and I know that my boyfriend who also tried it did too. I’ve found it to be one of the most effective products that I’ve used for my scoliosis - think of sitting by a radiator! 

It can be a weird sensation if you’re not used to it so I’d definitely recommend only using a little bit of either of the gels, one of the best things about these gels is that you really don’t need much at all to notice the effect. 

The great thing about these gels is that they last such a long time! I’ve found other gels can also leave a sticky or greasy feeling on your back but these ones both absorbed into my skin so well. I’m so happy that I found this brand and whilst I can only speak as a scoliosis sufferer I feel confident that they would also help others too.

To see the full range of products available take a look at the website www.pernaton.co.uk 

J x

Snack Box Swap!

Hey Guys!

So as I’m off work sick today this has given me a good opportunity right relax, sleep and when I feel up to it, write a blog post! 

I’m in a lot of travel groups across social media and had the idea to try a snack box swap with a girl I met in one of these groups who was from Denmark. It worked so well and when I shared the idea in the travel groups I was in, it took off! It led me to creating a group specifically designed for this purpose which you can find below.  

https://m.facebook.com/groups/2169608506657291

I am so pleased with how to group has grown but the idea wouldn’t be complete without sharing this on my blog! 

I sent snacks from England and received a box full of yummy Danish snacks which ranged from cinnamon rolls to chocolate caramel turtles! I haven’t been able to try them all yet but I’m looking forward to when I do! 

A couple of tips if you’re looking at doing a similar idea: 

- Join the group, there’s a whole community of people wanting to swap!

- Set a budget so it’s equal and fair 

- Try to send the same day or week as the person you swap with 

- Check customs regulations, there may be certain foods that you cannot include, if this is the case it may even be worth swapping other items instead. 

- Check for allergies! 

I hope this helps, it really was a unique and really fun experience and I look forward to doing more swaps in the future! 

J x

Cruising around the Med!

Hey Guys,

So I’ve slightly neglected this blog recently which is something I’m hoping to get back on top off very soon, as you can see from my Instagram I have a lot to write about!

I recently went on a cruise to Malta, Croatia and Italy on the P&O cruises Oceana ship. It was my second crusie but I had such a great time. I feel as though there is a large stereotype that cruising is for older people and although the majority of passengers were older than myself, I feel it is a great way to see a lot of beautiful countries in one trip!

We started our trip flying from Manchester and booked one of the airport lounges before our flight. I’d definitely recommend this if you can as it makes the whole airport experience a lot more relaxing and to me it felt like I could start my holiday early as I tucked into pasta, cheese and ice cream!



Our first stop was Malta as this is the country that we flew into it. Unfortunately we had to board the ship straight away due to having a late flight so didn’t really get to explore but fortunately due to a late flight home we had the whole day to explore Malta on the way back.

We took a lift to the the Old Town which provides amazing views across the city and even got to here the cannon go off at midday. It’s a great place for shopping too and you can find some bargain souvenirs down the side street! I was so impressed by the stunning architecture Malta has and feel that it’s such an underrated destination, I can’t wait to travel here again soon and have more time to explore further afield!

Our next destination was Croatia! We visited Dubrovnik and took a cable car up the mountain before heading to the nearby town of Cavtat. The cable car is definitely a must do for getting perfect views across Dubrovnik and Cavtat is ideal to escape the business of Dubrovnik. We opted to eat here too due to meals being slightly cheaper as it’s out of the main tourist spot. It also offers stunning scenery and I enjoyed eating lunch watching the passing boats!

Our last stop on the trip was Venice which is somewhere which stole my heart! I was worried I’d be slightly disappointed after all the hype I’d heard but it really is an incredible place to visit. I woke up at 5am just to watch the sunrise as we arrived in Venice which is a must do when arriving by ship. I’d recommend visiting Venice early morning to avoid large crowds, the pavements and side streets get very warm during the summer which isn’t helped by the crowds so be sure to be prepared for this! Venice has no cars and can only be accessed on foot or by boat. It’s a surreal sight to see all the water taxis whizzing past! The final thing I would recommend is to eat outside of the main tourist areas, it’s easy to find some cheaper options down the many side streets in Venice. 

I was adamant before visiting that I wouldn’t do a Gondola as I saw them as a cliche tourist trap. However on visiting I was won over by them, it was a beautiful thing to experience and something I won’t ever forget. If visiting as a couple I’d definitely recommend it for a romantic experience but it’s perfect for any type of traveller!

I am so lucky to experience so many incredible places and I can’t wait to share my next adventure with you and look forward to reading all about yours too! 

J x

Celebrating the bank holiday

Hey guys!

I love a bank holiday and not having to wake up on a Monday morning to go to work. We started the weekend by going to a local comedy night where we laughed into the night and got to catch up with friends too.

 It was also lovely the celebrate a six month anniversary with my boyfriend which we did by going for a lovely meal at a local restaurant where I had salmon and a New York Baileys cheesecake! 

On Sunday we headed to the beach at Skegness where we spent the afternoon shopping, winning tickets on the arcades, walking along the beach, listening to music and tucking into ice cream and fish and chips! The beach has always been one of my favourite places to be and I don’t think I will ever stop wanting to live by the sea! 

As you might be able to tell it’s rare for me to have a relaxing day, I love being busy and going on lots of adventures but it was nice today to be a bit more laid back. We headed into town where we picked up a few bits and then laid back in bed for the rest of the day, even having a couple of naps! 

I do find that I have neglected this blog recently but I hope to be back on it soon with lots of updates and new adventures! 

Hope you all had a lovely bank holiday weekend!

J x

It’s okay to have lazy days

Hey guys!

So I know the title of this blog post is probably quite an obvious statement for a lot of people but it’s something I’ve only recently come to realise after meeting my boyfriend. 

I’m a naturally busy person, out of choice. I’m always working, going to events, socialising etc and I feel that if a weekend isn’t spent “going out” then it’s wasted, at least I used to anyway. 

However having now spent a few weekends simply relaxing, staying in bed watching films, reading blogs and even taking some naps I’ve realised not only are lazy days actually quite fun but they’re also really important for your body. It gives your body time to rest and recover from all the ‘out and about’ stuff. It doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole day in bed (although I have on occasion) a relaxing walk and a bit of fresh air is also beneficial. 

On a typical weekend before I met my boyfriend I would be out with friends Friday night and then possibly even visiting a different city early the next day, with a trip to town Sunday to finish off the weekend. I wasn’t relaxing at all other than when I was asleep, I rarely took naps and although I didn’t realise it at the time, I was exhausted. 

I’ve now learnt to balance myself and feel a lot healthier. I still go out some weekends and go to events if they appeal to me but I also spend some days in bed watching Netflix (using the bf’s account because he’s the best like that❤️) but I’m not constantly draining my body and I’m also receiving the best back massages I’ve ever had and waking up at the weekends with the person I love, no amount of going out could beat that. 

I’m not saying waste life staying in bed either (I’m a travel blogger) but finding a balance is really important. There’s so much pressure from reading other blogs and social media to be doing and seeing things all the time but a lot of good can be had by taking a bit of time out too. 

J x

Switching off in Leeds

Hey Guys!

Happy Easter! It’s the 1st April already and I can’t believe how quickly this year is going. I’ve always really liked the quote “we don’t travel the escape life, we travel for life not to escape us”. It’s so true and something that doesn’t really set in until you experience how quickly life can change and how caught up in normal routine you can become. 

I’ve been blogging for a while now and I am always so thankful for the amazing opportunities that blogging has brought me. I’ve been lucky enough to work with hotels from Nottingham to Amsterdam and my passion for this has never once faltered. 

I have just got back from a lovely overnight trip in Leeds with my boyfriend and it was the first time in a while that I went without having the take loads of photos and without having to think about strategically planning a review and a series of social media posts, I could relax and that’s something that had been lacking on my previous trips somewhat. We went shopping, went to a comedy night, found a super cute cafe for breakfast and visited the royal armouries museum, it was great just strolling round the streets.

For this reason I tried to spend as little time as possible on my phone, I took a few photos but nowhere near as many as I would if I was writing a review and it was really refreshing. 

I learnt how important it is to sometimes just switch off and not have the pressure of what other people think but just to keep doing you! 

Make sure that you all get a bit of time for yourself this easter and spend time with those closest to you. 

J x

Should you travel when you’re young?

Hey Guys!

This is a question that I’ve always battled with myself. When I talk about wanting to travel everyone will always say “do it while you’re young”. They mean this, I presume in the sense that I will have my health and little responsibilities when I am young but I wonder if that’s strictly true. 

Yes my health is stable at the moment but it has its problems which I don’t need to go into. I have a well paid job which not many people get to do and yes I am terrified about finding a job when I return from travelling. I know it’s unlikely to find something like where I am now so I wonder if it’s worth it. 

The thing is, now isn’t the right time but it never will be. I don’t believe that there ever is a ‘right time’ to travel but in fact you have to make your own right time. There will always be risks, setbacks and things holding you back, not everyone is going to support you. 

This is your life and time goes so fast. Some places in the world are disappearing and could be non-existent in a few years. There will always be pros and cons but only you can decide when you’re ready. 

J x

An Amsterdam Getaway

Hey Guys,

So I’ve finally had the time to sit down and write this little post for you about our spontaneous trip away to Amsterdam! I had the luxury of having a few days of work so wanted to make the most of it as much as I could (I hate sitting still!).

We grabbed a Pizza at Doncaster Airport before flying straight to Amsterdam, a great flight time in under an hour! 

We wanted to make the most of our three nights in Amsterdam so even ended up taking a wander around the city despite getting there fairly late at night. We was always surprised by how easy it was to get around and how friendly and helpful everyone was if we was ever stuck for directions! 

We stayed at the beautiful Pension Homeland. An oasis of calm and walking distance to the centre of Amsterdam. There are so many things which make this hotel unique but the one that stands out the most to me is the location. It’s situated on what is known as the Marine Land and is formerly an old naval base. From our room we could also look out onto all the boats which was certainly a lovely view to wake up to each morning! 

The rooms are large with murals like the one in the picture above. Although we stayed here as a couple it would also be perfect for families looking for a sense of calm amongst the buzz of the city. 

Another unique aspect of this hotel is that it has its own brewery on site! I’ve never been much of one for beer myself but this is one of the nicest I’ve had (my partner who does drink beer also agrees!). It’s definitely worth popping in for a drink or two if you’re ever in the area especially at these prices! 

The thing I loved most about Amsterdam was how close everything was to each other! I’m not usually much of one for walking but we literally walked everywhere and saw so much and everyone was so friendly! We wandered round the markets where I picked up some bargain clothes, ate waffles by the canal, had a peek at the red light district and overlooked the city at a rooftop bar as well as tucking into some delicious food! We couldn’t have wished for a better experience. 

We also busted the Resistance Musuem which I’ll be talking about in a separate post. Amsterdam was the most perfect little getaway for us and somewhere we never wanted to leave. 

We can’t wait to see where our travelling will take us next! 

I worked with Pension Homeland for the purposes of the review but all opinions are my own. You can keep up to date with all their latest news and offers on their social media and website. 

https://www.pensionhomeland.com/en/

Instagram: @pensionhomeland

Facebook: Pension Homeland 

J x