Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Tripping away

Some of you have probably wondered where I disappeared and thought that 'was this it?'! I apologize for not letting you know that I allowed myself to have a little vacation. Alright, I have not been at work since the early June, but only for the past three weeks I have mentally given myself a break. Makes any sense? 


Anyways, I've got some great images to share that I was snapping away while attending Irish wedding, visiting ever-so-bustling London and enjoying a boat trip to Åland Islands and Hanko. All this time the weather has been amazing! That's a bit of a miracle, since usually the weather turn out crappy when you have your vacation! :) 


I like staying at a hotel. Clean sheets, white towels, not having to worry about not tidying the room... For me, though, the best thing about staying in a hotel must be the breakfast. Especially when it's organic, like during our stay in Ireland. Lots of fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice, organic yoghurt, perfectly toasted bread and a big pot of coffee. Why not treat yourself every now and then and do the same at home!



Not only was the breakfast great, the hotel itself was incredible. Every room and lobby were different, which made this hotel truly exceptional and unique. If you ever consider visiting Ireland, I recommend staying, even if only for one night, at the K Club in Kildare! 



After Ireland came England. A visit to London, that is! Five days of exploration isn't much, but definitely paid off. Most interesting and relaxing areas of the city must be Camden. In Camden Lock we spent hours just walking around and browsing through the shops. What an incredible place for inspiration! 





From city to sea... Last week we spent boating in Finland's archipelago, visiting the beautiful Mariehamn and picturesque Hanko. It was truly nice to be out at the sea, enjoying the scenery and visiting little harbours and coves. We also enjoyed of some great food, which in my opinion can make or break a trip! ;) 




Next week I will be going to Copenhagen for the fashion week and visit few fairs. This means that my plans of opening a lifestyle store of my own are proceeding! 

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Something salty and a little bit of sweet

Although cooking is not one of my strengths, I appreciate good food. Living in the city center doesn't come cheap. I have to admit that eating out is more normal to me than preparing food at home. Call me lazy or crazy, I wouldn't want it any other way! 


I have a few regular places that I can always count on, but I also like to visit new restaurants to see how they function and whether they are potential to be my new regular spots. I was pleasantly surprised by a new place called Bravuria. Even though it belongs to a chain, the concept was refreshing. And the prices very affordable! 




I also enjoy having a glass of wine or champagne with my food and analyze how it can change the taste of the food. I have come to a realization, though, that it is not only the drink that makes you all bubbly, it is the company you're in! 


(Check out a new bar on Korkeavuorenkatu called Latva!)


When having something salty, I definitely need to have something sweet as well. I'm the kind of girl who chooses the dessert first and only then the appetizer and main course. I'm pretty sure I am not the only one who prefers a chocolate dessert over anything else... Hello, my name is Kati and I'm a chockaholic! 


(To treat your chocolate addiction I recommend visiting Petris Chocolate Room on Museokatu!) 

Friday, July 1, 2011

Summer and the City

Nothing beats a warm summer day in the city. Let it be Helsinki or London or New York, I just love walking around and stopping by in a cafe to have an ice-latte or check out those little stores that you always pass by but never have time to visit... Yesterday I spent a fabulous day in the city with my mom. We walked down Korkeavuorenkatu, visited few stores, did some shopping and ended up having lunch at the-never-failing Bar No 9 on Uudenmaankatu. A very relaxed and enjoyable day indeed! 


Here's my list of Top 5 things to do or places to visit during the summer: 


1. Have a romantic picnic in the morning in Tähtitorninmäki. 
2. Play Mölkky in a park. 
3. Enjoy a glass of champagne at Mattolaituri in Kaivopuisto. 
4. Visit Gallerie Forsblom on Lönnrotinkatu. 
5. Eat oh-so-delicious mango-melon ice-cream, lots of it! 


Of course there are tons of other things to do. I'd love for you to tell me what are your favorite ways to spend a day! :)