I visited London in March and from the beginning of April there’s a fantastic weekly market happening just 15 minutes walking from the hotel I was staying. And for me it’s a reason to book another ticket. Look at what they are selling: stuff young designers make and you instantly want to have for yourself. It’s a perfect place to get presents as well. Every Saturday till September 24th.
Check out: www.designersmakers.com
For the April issue of Marie Claire I wrote a tiny little piece about the newest spots in London. From the Zetter Townhouse till the V&A Reading Rooms. Oh and on the other page I did an interview with the lovely Taema Nahir.
3 reasons to go there:
Check out: www.outsidertart.com
(Image via WeHeart – a design blog worth following)
I love a well stocked mini bar – especially with funny items in it. At the Ace Hotel in Portland I felt like home when they offered me Stroopwafels – a Dutch delight. The Morgans Hotel Group teams up with the School of Life and if you’re staying in one of their hotels you get this Minibar for the Mind set. In it you’ll find Conversation Starters (speaks for itself), Collective Thoughts (inspiring thoughts written down by members of the School of Life), Dreams & Fears Notebook and a set of really great pencils. I love it! Oh, you can also buy the set via their website for 40 euro.
Check out: www.morganshotelgroup.com
(Images via Selectism – a cool online men’s magazine)
3 reasons to go there:
(Can I point you to the Urban Junkies report of This Restaurant – funny written)
Most striking feature:
The toilets. The most beautiful toilets I’ve ever seen in my life (first two photos). This is heaven. With handsoap and handcream at the sinks, wooden doors, a tree in it, some cool design chairs. If you take a look in the mirror the lights are just good enough (so that you’re the pretty version of yourself, not the striplight version). Upstairs it’s fantastic as well. You have several seating areas. For a simple drink, something to eat and a late night drink. At night downstairs is the place to order a cocktail. Must see!
Check out: www.thefollybar.co.uk
Most striking feature:
The outside handcream and handsoap. If you’re strolling through Shoreditch, this is the place to get your hands fresh and fruity again. Inside you will find the beautiful products of Aesop.
Check out: www.aesop.net.au
Most striking feature:
A fresh cafe next to the Boundary hotel in the middle of Shoreditch. A good place to have breakfast or lunch before or after a shopping spree. There’s a little store next to it where you can buy all kind of delicatessen. I’ve ordered an omelett with mushrooms. Very simple. There’s also a very simple water can. Outside there’s a terrace (see picture taken in the evening).
Check out: www.albioncaff.co.uk
With the Royal Wedding coming up, there’s a huge marketing business opening up. Buying a mug with William and Kate on it is something the typical tourist will buy. What I like is this plate from KK Outlet. Unfortunately KK Outlet was closed when we arrived there. But maybe you can score this plate? Price: 20 pounds
Check out: www.kkoutlet.com
(Picture taken at Beyond the Valley in Soho)
Petite Passport 