cheriecity | cheriecity.co.uk

Beauty, Events

How to Get a Healthy Alkaline Lifestyle

April 13, 2017 by cheriecity

This week, I headed over to The Dentist Gallery in Victoria to hear all about the health benefits of an alkaline diet with experts from the Joshi Clinic and Arm & Hammer. Since my Berlin trip a few days before was packed full of indulgences like steak, strudel and cinnamon buns, it was a welcome reminder of how to get back on track.

We started the evening nourishing our bodies with some delicious organic veggie bowls, chocolate peanut energy balls and surprisingly delicious alkaline green shots (to balance out the cheeky Prosecco) before the series of talks began.

There was also the chance to take a look around this very cool private dental surgery, which combines modern art, music and dentistry. As you can see, it’s really not your typical cold, sterile and sometimes fear-inducing dentist surgery.

Dr Jerome Sebah, co-founder of The Dentist Gallery, explained why Arm & Hammer is such an effective toothpaste for oral health. Its unique bicarbonate of soda formula works under the gums to remove plaque and it also contains minerals that help create a more alkaline environment in the mouth. Since acidity allows bacteria to grow and multiply, we should all aim to balance our pH levels to avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

Next up was Tomaz Mueller of the Joshi Clinic in Marylebone, whose founder Dr Nish Joshi established the alkaline diet. Dr Joshi’s holistic, Ayurvedic approach to wellness has been widely acclaimed and celebrity fans have included Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, Ralph Fiennes and his close friend Diana, Princess of Wales.

Tomaz began by telling us that as busy city-dwellers, we are “on a 24/7 toxic drip”. Stress, pollution and poor diet can lead to too much acidity in the body and this can put particular strain on our kidneys. However there is hope, if we make conscious changes to follow an alkaline lifestyle – not just for the body but also the mind.

Here are five top tips on how to follow an alkaline lifestyle:

1. Drink hot water

We’ve all heard about the benefits of starting the day with hot water and lemon, and even though citrus fruits are acidic, the lemon has an alkalising effect on the body and helps boost the metabolism. However, Tomaz goes one step further and recommends using hot water as medicine. Simply sip on plain, boiling hot water throughout the day at 15-minute intervals to keep the body alkaline.

2. Manage stress

Alkalising the mind means addressing and limiting stress and anxiety. Stress can make the body more acidic and disrupt your routine, so it’s equally important to manage for wellbeing.

3. Breathe properly

This is something we should have aced by now, but many of us are not breathing correctly to give our bodies optimal nourishment. Tomaz recommends a 4-2-6 formula for breathing, which focuses on filling our lungs with oxygen, holding for a short moment and deeply exhaling to fully excrete carbon dioxide from our bodies. It also helps calm the body and mind, especially during periods of irritability, and can help reduce stress.

4. Control your diet

Social media is a constant tempter when it comes to food, however an alkaline diet requires conscious decisions, forward-planning and a touch of restraint. Sweets, refined sugar and processed food all produce cravings and even when eating them, it can be hard to feel satiated, so try to avoid or at least reduce them. Tomaz explained that he follows a regime of eating healthily for five days followed by one ‘treat day’ and then a day of fasting before starting again the next week.

Joshi’s Alkaline Diet is a comprehensive guide to eating for health and I’ve just started reading it, so more on that later.

5. Fast regularly

Finally, the most challenging approach is fasting regularly. Sonia Wisinger of The Joshi Clinic recommends a liquid fast twice a year as well as mini cleanses to give the body a rest and a chance to reset. My only experience of fasting was on an arduous but rewarding two-day juice cleanse, and it seems rather daunting, but we’ll see…

Do you use baking soda toothpaste as part of your oral hygiene routine? Have you ever tried an alkaline diet?

Sponsored post

Madrid, Restaurants

Dinner at Hermosos y Malditos Madrid

April 4, 2017 by cheriecity

Our first visit to Madrid started on a high with a Saturday night out at Hermosos y Malditos, one of the city’s most stylish restaurants at design hotel TÓTEM Madrid.

Located in well-heeled Salamanca, with Manolo Blahnik and Stella McCartney among its neighbours, Hermosos y Malditos attracts a cool crowd of locals and hotel guests and the vibe is buzzing yet relaxed, making it perfect for date night or catching up with friends.

Named after F.Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel The Beautiful and the Damned, the concept is clear. Feast on heavenly Mediterranean dishes in the restaurant and end the night decadently over potent drinks in the sultry cocktail bar.

The bright and airy restaurant is a real treat for interiors fans (thanks to Spanish design firm Better) with modern-retro wood tables, leafy plants and touches of pastels. We arrived when the restaurant opened at 8.30pm and had some time to get settled and peruse the menu, however if you want to live like a true Madrileño, head there after 9pm when it starts to get lively.

After ordering, we were presented with a basket of rustic freshly-baked bread accompanied by a punchy tomato, garlic and chilli butter and marinated olives. It was so tempting to enjoy slice after slice, but a little restraint was necessary when we saw the portion sizes of dishes coming out the kitchen.

We ordered shareable dishes and first up was a typical Spanish delicacy of Acorn-fed Iberico Ham Arturo Sanchez with toasts. The artisanal sliced cured ham had a deep, nutty and mature flavour and a silky texture with a good amount of marbling. It was a superior grade of Iberico ham and went perfectly with the crispy golden toasts and crushed fresh tomato.

A Big Burrata with sundried tomatoes was a lovely, fresh dish and it certainly was on the large side. The cool, creamy burrata had a soft, oozing centre and was accompanied by an uplifting sundried tomato and olive oil caponata – simple perfection.

I was in the mood for seafood, so for my main course I tried the Scallops and vegetable wok. This delicious Asian-style dish was healthy yet moreish and I was treated to no less than six scallops! I’ve eaten my fair share of scallop dishes around the world, but this dish definitely beat a record. They were really good too – plump and succulent, served with tasty stir-fried vegetable with a sweet sesame-soy sauce.

Steven’s Roast beef with mashed potatoes and spinach salad was another hit. This dish had a comforting home-cooked taste, like the kind you’d expect a Spanish grandmother to make. The paper-thin slices of rare roast beef were tender and doused in a tangy, meaty jus, while the mashed potato was velvety smooth, almost like a purée, and the lightly-dressed spinach salad added a touch of freshness.

By this point, we were feeling very full and in an uncharacteristic move, we actually SHARED a dessert! However, we made it a decadent one – Chocolate with white chocolate. The silky milk chocolate ganache topped with coarse sea salt was surrounded by cookie crumble and served with a jug of creamy white chocolate sauce. It really was an ideal end to a glorious meal.

We then headed through to the fabulous cocktail bar to finish the night with a creative drink. We both tried the most amazing Spiced Whisky Sour and chilled out to a cool soundtrack of remixes by DJ Joao Ribeiro.

The cocktail bar is also a great spot for light bar bites, tapas and sandwiches – quite a few hotel guests ate there throughout the evening.

Hermosos y Malditos is a fun and sophisticated place to spend a night out in Madrid. The food is magnificent, the staff are delightful and everything from the statement tableware to the music has been thoughtfully considered. It’s also open for breakfast, lunch and brunch on Sundays, so you can make it part of a Salamanca shopping trip or an elegant start to the day.

For more information and booking, visit: www.hermososymalditosmadrid.com

Chérie City was a guest of Hermosos y Malditos

Photos by Chérie City and Hermosos y Malditos

Copenhagen, Restaurants

Amazing Places to Eat Out in Copenhagen

April 3, 2017 by cheriecity

Copenhagen has a thrilling food scene, whether it’s innovative Michelin star Nordic cuisine, tempting street food or classic Danish bites. In fact, there are so many destination restaurants, new openings and cool brunch spots that you might find it hard to tick them all off your wish list.

Here are a few foodie gems that we discovered during our recent first trip to Copenhagen…

Höst

One of the highlights of our trip was a fabulous dinner at the beautiful and atmospheric Höst. This casual fine Nordic dining restaurant offers a three or five course set menu with a number of inventive dishes in-between courses.

On this food journey, we feasted on delicacies from the Danish land and sea, experiencing a diverse range of flavours with a few ‘wow’ moments along the way.

The experience was flawless and struck the right balance between relaxed and ceremonious. Starting from around £40 for a three-course menu, it’s also great value and more accessible than some of Copenhagen’s high end restaurants.

To read the full review, click here.

Mother

Mother, in the hip Kødbyen (Meatpacking district), is a casual, buzzing Italian restaurant that serves up authentic Neapolitan pizzas from a wood-fire oven. This regenerated warehouse complex is filled with cool restaurants and bars such as Fiskebar, Gorilla, Paté Paté and Warpigs, and is the place to be for a weekend night out.

Mother has a casual, lively atmosphere and is a top pick if you’re in the mood for something hearty and rustic at a decent price.

While inspiration comes from Italy, Mother has a bit of Danish flair. Not only are the pizza toppings organic and mostly produced in Copenhagen, but the signature sourdough base is made from natural yeasts and purified seawater to make it easier on the stomach.

In the name of research, we tried two contrasting pizzas – a classic Margherita with plenty of creamy mozzarella, simple crushed tomatoes and a chewy, fluffy and nicely blistered dough, and the more adventurous Burning Love. This inventive pizza bianca, topped with mozzarella, potatoes, fried onions and røget spæk (a bit like lardo) was super-rich, like an Alpine tartiflette crossed with a pizza. I highly recommend sharing a few slices of each, as both are delightful and not to be missed.

Cocks & Cows

The burgers at boutique chain Cocks & Cows are often declared the best in the city and it’s easy to see why. We dined at Cocks & Cows inside the stylish SP34 Hotel on our first night there and wolfed down a Cheese ‘n’ Smoke burger and The New Yorker, accompanied by Salt and vinegar fries.

The medium-cooked, flame-grilled burgers were fantastic and generously-sized and we liked the cosy clubhouse feel of the restaurant. It’s definitely the place to satisfy a serious meat craving or attempt The Governator – a burger packed with double everything!

Torvehallerne

One of my favourite spots in Copenhagen was Torvehallerne, a dazzling food hall in the central Nørreport area. It has everything you could hope to find – gourmet Danish smørrebrød at Hallernes, Asian street food by LêLê Street Kitchen, Grød posh porridge, craft beers at Mikkeller & Friends Bottle shop and Summerbird Chocolate.

On a particularly chilly lunchtime, we warmed up over a bowl of delicious home-made soup at Unplugged Juice and couldn’t resist a Cinnamon chocolate snegl from the magnificent Laura’s Bakery.

There are so many tempting foodie bites to try at Torvehallerne that you might want to bring a big bag and stock up for later.

Copenhagen Street Food

Like most major cities, street food is big news and it’s done particularly well at the purpose-built Copenhagen Street Food. Conveniently located on Paper Island next to Freetown Christiania, this indoor food market is packed full of trucks and kiosks offering gourmet bites from around the world.

You can find typical Danish hot dogs at Pølse Kompagniet, Belgian stews and duck-fat fries at Copper and Wheat, Brazilian grilled meat at Brasa and Korean Bulgogi at Bulko. What’s not to love?

Lagkagehuset & Holm

A trip to Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without copious amounts of Danish pastries. Lagkagehuset (or Ole & Steen as it’s known in the UK) has a number of stylish bakeries across Copenhagen and is a good option for an affordable bite at any time of the day. We found the pizza slices a hearty and surprisingly indulgent choice for lunch. They should definitely be followed with something sweet like a delicious cinnamon social, chocolate rumball or a double chocolate chip muffin.

Holm Bager, next to the sleek Illum department store, has a very similar offering and does a great carrot and walnut milk bun and a giant cinnamon swirl smothered in vanilla frosting.

Other temples of pastry in Copenhagen include Meyers Bageri, Sankt Peders Bageri and Andersen Bakery – try and sample them all, if you can handle it.

Are you tempted by the Copenhagen food scene? Where are your favourite spots for eating out in Copenhagen?

Photos by Chérie City (interiors by Höst and Mother)

Copenhagen, Restaurants

Dinner at Höst Restaurant Copenhagen

March 14, 2017 by cheriecity

A big highlight of our trip to Copenhagen was dinner at the stylish and atmospheric Höst. While Copenhagen boasts a number of high end Michelin starred restaurants and radical neo-bistros, Höst offers affordable fine Nordic dining in a casual yet inspiring setting.

A part of the Cofoco restaurant group, which also includes Väkst at Hotel SP34 where we enjoyed breakfast, Höst is located in the hip Nansengade quarter and it had a buzzing neighbourhood vibe when we visited on a snowy Monday evening.

The restaurant, which means ‘harvest’ in Danish, offers a seasonal set menu of either three or five course, however, this undersells the experience somewhat as it there are many treats in between the courses that make for quite a substantial meal.

We went for the three course dinner menu and were swiftly presented a magnificent appetiser of Juniper-smoked scallop with walnut, sheep’s milk yoghurt, apples and coriander. Our waitress set alight some of the surrounding ferns inside a sea shell to evoke scents of the wilderness. The dish tasted just as beautiful as it looked. The cured scallop was tender and tangy, and was complemented by a fresh, velvety apple emulsion and a mild, snow-like texture from the yoghurt.

Next up was our starter – Baked cod with Jerusalem artichoke, lumpfish roe and fish fumée, which was ladled over the fish at the table. The baked cod was warm and succulent, lightly dusted in hay ash and topped with a generous amount of lumpfish roe (a mildly-flavoured caviar). The fish fumée finished it off nicely with a smoky flavour and pieces of soft artichoke.

A rustic boule of freshly-baked sourdough was served on a bed of dried grains and was paired with a gloriously light and whipped salted Danish butter. I tried not to disrupt the rhythm of the courses too much by filling up on bread, but Steven got stuck in, as it was just so tasty.

Before moving on to the land, we had one last taste of the sea with Poached octopus with ink and blue mussel soup with pickled pear, dill and cress. This dish, with delicate octopus ribbons, was packed full of sweet and sour flavours and the very creamy soup was plesantly cut through with tart little cubes of pear and plenty of grassy fresh green herbs. It was intriguing and characterful and just the right size to not overwhelm.

For our main course, we were treated to Beef sirloin from Grambogaard with beetroot, onions, cep mushrooms and tarragon. The medium-cooked fillet of beef was surprisingly large and ever so tender, topped with a slow-cooked cep mushroom and onion sauce, a nest of fresh beetroot ribbons and finished with a rich, meaty jus. I loved how the beetroot elevated it from a typically indulgent beef dish to something more vibrant and visually-pleasing.

We were offered a short break before dessert to really savour the experience and then it was on to a very special palate cleanser of Pear sorbet with lemon verbena, salted Skyr yoghurt and sugar beet syrup. Our tastebuds had been lulled into contentment with the main course and this pre-dessert jolted them back into action so abruptly that we both almost jumped out of our seats (in a good way).

The first flavour to hit was the salty, whipped yoghurt, which was swiftly countered with the sticky, sweet beet syrup at the bottom. The pear sorbet was juicy and mellow and the powdered lemon verbena added a fragrant taste.

Our final flourish was a dessert of Birch bark ice cream with herbal chocolate, pear and caramel. It may look a little ‘out there’ but it was very moreish – the ice cream had an earthy flavour and the white chocolate crumble was subtle with just a slight hint of caramel and pear cider purée.

Our meal at Höst was so memorable and impressive and while there are still so many Copenhagen restaurants on my list, I’m tempted to return and see what’s on the menu. It doesn’t require noma or Geranium levels of advance booking, but tables can get snapped up quickly – you don’t want to miss this one!

Photos by Chérie City and Höst

Copenhagen, Hotels

A Great Stay at Hotel SP34 Copenhagen

March 13, 2017 by cheriecity

Copenhagen is famed for laid-back style paired with cosiness and this was exactly what I wanted to experience on our first trip to the capital of Denmark. Hotel SP34 does Danish living really, really well with a forward-thinking approach to hospitality, as well as a few nods to convivial traditions.

Location

Part of the design-led Brøchner Hotels, the four star Hotel SP34 comprises three renovated townhouses on Sankt Peder Stræde in the charming Latin Quarter. It’s well-located for exploring Copenhagen and is within walking distance of the Tivoli Gardens, The National Museum of Denmark, shopping in the pedestrianised Strøget street and the leafy Ørstedsparken.

Arriving for Wine Hour

Conveniently, we arrived at Hotel SP34 in time for the daily Wine Hour and as you can imagine, the open-plan hotel lobby was buzzing with couples and friends sipping happily in front of the open fireplace – the epitome of hygge! The SP34 tends to attract an international, creative crowd and its hip lobby scene is a key part of its charm.

Check-in was quick and friendly and I couldn’t help admiring the staff’s stunning uniforms designed by cool Danish designer Stine Goya. After joining in the merriment with a warming glass of Port wine, we headed up to our Superior Double Room on the third floor.

The Room

The room was designed in a luxury bohemian style with furniture custom-made by Scandinavian designers. There were tones of wood and tan leather, moody grey walls, a jewel-like vintage pendant lamp (made specially for the hotel in Sweden) and a statement headboard with fun mini leather cushions. We also loved the typical Latin Quarter bay windows that offered a floor-to-ceiling view of the street below and added a touch of romance to the room.

The two twin beds were seriously comfy, with high quality white linen and proper pillows, as well as a large wall-mounted LCTV. It’s also worth noting that like all of the rooms, we had tea and coffee facilities with a selection of Pukka teas and there was also free high-speed wifi. The room didn’t have a refrigerator for drinks, however guests who book a suite can also enjoy an all-inclusive minibar concept in both the room and the lobby bar.

The bathroom had an urban monochrome feel with sleek white tiles, a powerful walk-in shower, concrete and metal units, fluffy towels and REN bathroom products (no conditioner though, so bring your own).

Burgers at Cocks and Cows

It’s a real treat having great restaurants in your hotel, especially after a day of travelling, and Hotel SP34 boasts three! Since we were having breakfast in Väkst in the morning, we went for gourmet burgers at the casual Cocks and Cows that has a few other locations in Copenhagen.

Its burgers are often named the best in the city and it’s easy to see why. My Cheese ‘n’ Smoke burger with bacon and Cheddar was so delicious with medium-cooked, flame-grilled beef, high quality toppings and tasty sauces. Steven went for the The New Yorker – flavourful and lean sliced chilli-garlic marinated steak inside a bun with aromatic tarragon mayo and creamy basil pesto. We shared a side of Salt & Vinegar Fries, which were golden and hand-chipped with the skin on, and more than enough for two.

Reeservations are essential, especially on a busy Saturday night, and once you’re in the service is super quick and friendly.

Breakfast at Väkst

In the morning, we were excited to have breakfast in Väkst, the beautifully-designed and highly-Instagrammable restaurant run by Copenhagen’s esteemed Cofoco restaurant group. It’s set across two floors with an indoor greenhouse and a staircase laden with plants – like a secret garden.

The organic breakfast was nicely put together by chefs in the open kitchen and while it was mostly Continental, there was the option to add hot items as extras. We feasted on freshly-baked croissants, apple and cinnamon cake, traditional rye bread with Danish salted butter, cold meats and yoghurt with fresh blueberries. It was a lovely way to start the day and we liked that over 90% of the items were organic and sourced locally.

Upon check-out we had the chance to see the lobby in the daylight and spotted some nice touches such as complimentary tea and coffee to take-out and a cabinet where you can buy high-end products and souvenirs.

Other interesting hotel features include an intimate 24-seater screening room with movie nights each evening as well as a seasonal rooftop terrace, the Din Nye Ven (Danish for Your New Friend) cafe-bar and a fitness room.

Hotel SP34 is an urban lifestyle resort with everything you need on your doorstep and is sure to appeal to design-conscious travellers who appreciate thoughtful touches and plenty of hygge. However, your head may also be turned by Brøchner Hotels’ latest property, the highly-anticipated Hotel Danmark opening in April. The hotels are less than ten minutes apart, so if you’re a curious hotel lover, why not try both? I know I will take any excuse to return to Copenhagen!

For more information and booking, visit: www.brochner-hotels.com

Chérie City received a press rate for a one-night stay at Hotel SP34

All photos by Chérie City

Beauty, London

A Great Skin Laundry Facial at Liberty

March 10, 2017 by cheriecity

Laser and Light express facials are a hot new trend in skincare maintenance and leading the way is Skin Laundry, a new arrival in London from the US.

With salons already in California, New York, Arizona and Hong Kong, Skin Laundry caused quite a buzz when it debuted at Liberty in London last September.

Founded by Yen Reis, this innovative skincare company offers a 15-minute, results-driven facial that doesn’t require any downtime and can slot in to your lunch break. It also has a range of skincare products, so you can make the brand part of your skincare routine at home.

As the name suggests, Skin Laundry is all about using technology to deep cleanse and detoxify the skin. It also helps boost collagen production, reduce the appearance of acne, fade sunspots and help diminish pigmentation and melasma.

As my main skin concern is tackling blemishes and congested pores, I was instantly sold on the idea of clean skin from within. Ready and poised to book online, I was pretty jazzed to find out that the first facial is offered for free! Skin Laundry is confident that you’ll be wowed enough by the results to become a regular and since lasers can sounds a little daunting, it’s a great way to get curious yet apprehensive clients through the door – marketing genius!

I checked in via an iPad at the Skin Laundry counter in the ground floor Liberty Beauty Hall and was taken upstairs to the treatment room a few minutes before my appointment. The assistant told me what to expect from the treatment and I could tell she was good at calming any nerves from Skin Laundry newbies.

My treatment was conducted by a trained medical therapist, who led me through the treatment in a friendly and professional manner. She explained that the laser works at the dermis, 2.5mm below the skin’s surface, and reassured me that any burning aroma is a normal part of the treatment and is simply dirt, dead skin cells and excess oil being vapourised.

She placed protective goggles over my eyes and wiped off any traces of make-up with a face wipe (unlike other facials a full cleanse wasn’t required). She counted down from three and began work with the YAG laser, gliding it evenly above and across my face. It started with the forehead and felt like tiny pinpricks – not painful but tingly and sometimes ticklish. Other areas like the cheekbones and around my mouth were more sensitive and the hotness and burning smell became more noticeable.

The only pain I felt was when the laser moved over the side of my nose where I’d had a nose piercing for a few months while at uni over ten years ago. At the beginning, my therapist asked if I had any piercings, to which I replied ‘no’, but it’s worth mentioning even if it was a long time ago. After the light throbbing stopped, we had a laugh about it and she went in for round two, avoiding this area.

Before the second phase, she applied a thick, cool gel to soothe my skin and prepare it for the IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy. A burst of light was emitted a number of times across the surface of my skin, in order to destroy bacteria, reduce acne scars and brighten the skin. This part was more pleasant, the only thing you’ll experience is warmth and a quick red flash, even when your eyes are closed.

Afterwards, my skin looked fresh and there was no puffiness or redness – I was good to go. About an hour later, my face was feeling slightly more taught than usual and in need of some moisture, so I drank more water and used the recommended hydrating sheet mask (£10). Over the next few days, my skin definitely felt cleaner, more even and a lot less stressed and spotty. The fresh air and pure water during my trip to Copenhagen definitely helped too!

While I’m used to having a regular facial once a month at the very most, Skin Laundry recommends a weekly laser and light facial to get the best results. It’s marketed in the US as part of your weekly blow-dry and manicure routine, and perhaps I’m wrong, but I’m not sure if beauty is quite so high-maintenance in the UK. There were quite a few American regular clients at the counter and the back-to-back appointment slots tend to book up weeks ahead, so perhaps it will catch on over here. Even if it’s not weekly, I think I could get hooked!

Skin Laundry facials at Liberty are priced at £60 (the first is for free) and can be booked individually or in bundles of 3 to 10 for a discounted rate. For more information and booking, visit: www.skinlaundry.com

Photos by Chérie City and Skin Laundry

Beauty, Shopping

Estée Lauder New Travel Retail Exclusives

February 17, 2017 by cheriecity

World Duty-Free is the reward for arriving at the airport on time and getting through all of those pre-travel stresses, in my opinion. It means that the trip has begun and it’s time to relax before boarding.

Last week, I headed over to the super-stylish penthouse at the Estée Lauder headquarters in Fitzrovia for a look at what’s on offer at the duty-free, both in the UK and internationally. I tend to pick up the same beauty essentials while travelling, but it was a great chance to discover some travel retail exclusives that can only be found at the airport.

There were two main things that I learned from speaking to the brand experts at the Travel Beautifully event that are definitely worth sharing. Firstly, the beauty and skincare counters are about more than just speed-scanning products for frazzled travellers cramming in last-minute purchases before their flight.

Complimentary pampering treatments

Whether you have five minutes to spare, or have the luxury of leisurely browsing, you can enjoy a complimentary pampering treatment. This can be an indulgent hand and arm massage at Jo Malone, a professional cleanse at La Mer, a touch of Moisture Surge hydration at Clinique or a make-up lesson at Bobbi Brown.

At the event, I learned how to create the perfect lip with a Bobbi Brown make-up artist and there are many more bite-size tutorials that you can take advantage of for free at the counter.

Extra value

Another helpful thing to know is just how great the travel retail exclusive sets are, in terms of the product and value for money. Clinique Moisture Surge is my regular travel purchase, but I was also impressed with the make-up offering at Smashbox and MAC. Here are a few products worth checking out at the duty-free…

Clinique Deep Comfort Exclusive Set

This set features a velvety, cooling body lotion and an intensely nourishing hand and cuticle cream. Both are free from fragrance and colour and suitable for sensitive skin, as well as being within the travel liquid allowance. They’re particularly useful for staying hydrated on a long-haul flight, where you can really get cosy and turn your seat area into a spa zone.

MAC Look In A Box

This is a genius product, especially if you want to treat yourself to a whole new holiday look. The Be A Little Naughty Box (one of four looks available) is filled with a softly-shimmering cream colour base, a duo of warm and natural nude shades for coverage and definition, a classic black kohl eyeliner and MAC’s Haute & Naughty Lash black mascara with the coolest disco-esque packaging.

Also included is a flattering beige-pink powder blush and MAC’s best-selling Ruby Woo retro matte lipstick. The box is ideal for going from day to night with an extra slick of eye liner and striking red lips.

Bobbi Brown Crazy For Color Lip Palette

Finally is the Bobbi Brown Crazy For Color Lip Palette, for when you can’t decide which lipsticks to pack. This gorgeous palette has everything you need, from a peachy nude to a deep red and hot pink. I was told that the ‘Bobbi way’ to get the perfect lip is to blend some of the colours together to get the exact shade that you want, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Next time you’re travelling, be sure to leave a little more time to get the most out of the duty-free shopping experience. With massages and mini facials on offer, I know I will!

All photos by Cherie City

counter massages.

Interiors

Interior Design Trends To Try At Home

February 14, 2017 by cheriecity

Ever come back from a holiday and wish you could recreate the hotel look at home? I’m always seeking design inspiration on my travels, whether it’s five star luxury in Hong Kong, an indie Montauk beach motel or a romantic urban bolthole in Paris.

One of the easiest ways to transform your living space is to keep the foundations simple and add bold accessories such as designer furniture, a statement roman blind from Blinds UK, beautiful artwork or even small trinkets. I recently broke the uniformity of my modern, white living room with a colour-popping armchair that lifts my spirits every time I look at it – a great investment, for sure!

Here are a few interior trends for the home that never go out of style…

Modern Marie-Antoinette

I’ve always had fantasies of a boudoir inspired by Marie-Antoinette, but back in the real world, this level of decadence requires a contemporary approach. Toile de Jouy brings an elegant French touch and it can be complemented by plush, light furniture or even a flash of neon to punk it up.

Get the modern Toile de Jouy look…

Beach Chic

One of my favourite UK seaside hotels, The Gallivant in Camber Sands, is a treasure trove of boho, beachy inspiration. Whether it’s nautical stripes, driftwood furniture or azure-hued textiles, coastal style always feels fresh and makes you dream of sunnier climes and salty air.

Here are a few more ways to get that sea breeze style…

Painterly Florals

Take inspiration from fashion designers like Erdem and Mary Katrantzou with vivid, painterly florals. The bolder the better and if you need a reference point, have a spin around one of the chic Firmdale Hotels, the Designers Guild store or one of Soho’s many luxury fabric stores.

Get inspired by a palette of painterly florals…

Would you try any of these interior design trends at home? Which look is your favourite?

Sponsored post

Cafes, London

Valentine’s Day at Dominique Ansel Bakery

February 12, 2017 by cheriecity

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than tasting delicious pink pastries with your love? Cake is certainly the key to my heart, so I was excited to see what Dominique Ansel Bakery had in store to mark its first Valentine’s Day in London.

Leading up to the day of romance, Dominique Ansel Bakery has turned the pastry counter pink, offering a Valentine’s spin on its signature cakes, along with a few new surprises.

We visited yesterday afternoon and tried a selection of the limited edition Dressed in Pink pastries, as well as some of the classics.

Fresh Strawberry and Lychee Pavlova was simple and whimsical with two crunchy pastel pink meringue shells sandwiched together with a cool, velvety ganache and finished with juicy sliced strawberries and a pink chocolate heart. The lychee flavour in the ganache was very subtle and I think it could have been amped up a little, but overall it was a lovely dessert for those who like plenty of sweetness.

Hibiscus Gingerbread Pinecone was pure artistry at work with exquisite presentation and layers of complex flavours. It really looked the part, with more than 70 hand-cut dark chocolate petals and pink chocolate hearts. Inside was smooth ginger mousse, fragrant hibiscus gelée, spiced cake with an aromatic kick and crispy feuilletine. It had a spicy, seasonal flavour, like a jammy lebkuchen, and was just perfect for the wintry weather.

We also had the chance to taste the famous DKA – ‘Dominique’s Kouign Amann’ – and I can see why it’s such a favourite. This version of the typical Breton cake had a crusty, caramelised top and inside were delicate layers of croissant-like dough and light slithers of sugar syrup. It’s a good choice if you want something sweet yet substantial for an afternoon treat.

Finally, we managed to find some room for some freshly-baked mini Madeleines, served warm right out of the oven. They were just so springy and airy with a delightful vanilla flavour – definitely the best madeleines I’ve ever tasted.

By that point, we’d hit a real sugar high, but there are still 11 more pink pastries in the collection to try! Highlights include a Cupid Religieuse, Chili Chocolate Eclair, Raspberry Mini Me Cake, Paris Je T’Aime and the highly Instagrammable Pomme D’Amour. Then there are the sweet gifts like Valentine’s meringues, hot chocolate bottles and popcorn, so you can really treat the love of your life.

The Dressed in Pink collection is available until 14th February at Dominique Ansel Bakery, Belgravia.

Chérie City was a guest of Dominique Ansel Bakery

All photos by Chérie City

Shopping, Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

February 9, 2017 by cheriecity

Valentine’s Day is almost here, so it’s time to find a fabulous gift for your special someone, whether it’s a seductive luxury fragrance, a chic bracelet or delicious chocolates that look almost too good to eat.

Here are a few ideas that are sure to impress…

Bella Freud Close To My Heart Eau de Parfum, £95, Liberty
Chloé Marin Bracelet, £250, Harvey Nichols
Glowing Radiance Aroma Roller, £29, ila spa
Sao Paulo Travel Guide, £25, Louis Vuitton
La Maison du Chocolat 48-Piece Chocolate Truffle Selection, £28.50, Selfridges
Camera Bag, £159.02, Pop & Suki
Love Of My Life Letter Cards, £11.95, Liberty
Emma Low-Cut Pump, £250, Repetto
Bamford Essential Oil Collection, £80, Liberty

London, Restaurants

A Great Dinner at Farmstand Covent Garden

February 3, 2017 by cheriecity

I’m always on the look out for healthy and tasty eateries in London and Farmstand in Covent Garden is now one to add to the list of favourites.

Devised by Milwaukee native Steven Novick, Farmstand takes inspiration from the fresh fruit and vegetable roadside stands that you can find in rural America. Ingredients are ethically sourced from British farms and producers and dishes are made in house every day.

Farmstand has a relaxed, casual vibe and in the evening, it has lots of atmosphere with twinkling candles and a cool soundtrack. Best of all, you can order at the counter and sit down to a beautifully-prepared organic meal instantly – healthy fast food in chic surroundings.

The concept is simple – build your own box or plate with a choice of one main and two sides, or simply three sides, for £7.50 (or £11.50 with a glass of wine or beer included). There is a good selection of organic meat, fish or plant-based mains and sides include grains and vegetables with exciting flavours. Also, everything is free from wheat, gluten, dairy and refined sugar, so it’s suitable for those with intolerances.

I was tempted by the Slow-cooked beef brisket with mushrooms and tamari, accompanied by Roasted sweet potatoes with ginger and coconut yoghurt and Broccoli with tahini and sesame seeds.

The enormous portion of brisket was so tender and flaky with a rich and pleasantly salty flavour from the tamari. The sweet potatoes were soft and juicy and topped with an amazingly creamy coconut yoghurt, while the broccoli was perfectly blanched with a slight crunch and a nutty flavour from the tahini.

Steven went for the Lamb meatballs with smoked paprika and tomatoes with Split fava beans, roasted peppers and pumpkin and Brown rice pasta with artichokes, mushrooms and marjoram.

The meatballs were plump and lean with an aromatic Middle Eastern flavour and a tangy tomato sauce. Fava beans with sweet pumpkin were slightly spiced with cumin and the brown rice pasta was well-cooked with a velvety cream sauce.

For dessert, we couldn’t resist trying a Rose and pistachio cake from west London gluten-free Pearl & Groove. It was a lovely, springy loaf cake with a subtly fragrant flavour. We also loved the decadent Double chocolate brownie. It may look petite, but it was actually quite substantial with a silky texture and flaky top.

Of course, cake requires tea and the Earl Grey by Postcard Teas was excellent – full-bodied and delicate.

Farmstand is the perfect spot for a quick and nutritious lunch or a fun dinner with friends over a glass of wine. The food quality and level of cooking are fantastic, especially for the price, and you’re sure to leave feeling well-fed and satisfied.

Chérie City was a guest of Farmstand

Photos by Chérie City and Farmstand

Hotels, London

Studio Life at Leman Locke Hotel in London

February 1, 2017 by cheriecity

London is quickly becoming the city for ‘next generation’ hotels and the newly-opened Leman Locke is really leading the way.

This forward-thinking hotel – the debut from new brand Locke Hotels – combines the luxury of a hotel with cool apartment living for creatively-minded folk who want a home away from home. Its minimal, urban look may also be familiar – it was designed by Grzywinski + Pons, the New York design company behind gems such as The Nolitan Hotel, Boro Hotel and west London’s Urban Villa.

Location

Located in buzzing east London, Leman Locke is set across a modern tower in rapidly evolving Aldgate. The area may be slick and modern, but it’s just moments way from London’s historic Brick Lane and Spitalfields, as well as being next to Aldgate East tube for quick access to the heart of the city.

Entering the hotel, your first encounter is with the cheery baristas at the hotel’s casual cafe Hyde, who give you a friendly hello every time you return. This bright and sunny cafe keeps guests fuelled all day with pastries and paleo granola for breakfast, hand-crafted sandwiches and salads at lunch, afternoon cake with Chash teas and Volcano coffee and evening cocktails and craft beers. It also attracts locals, particularly for Sunday brunch, so it has a good neighborhood vibe.

Check In

Hyde leads on to the cosy hotel lobby with a comfy seating area, copies of i-D magazine and plenty of quirky artefacts (I can’t help thinking it has a bit of a Wes Anderson feel). We had a swift and efficient check in and scaled up to the 16th floor in the lift.

The Studio

Our Studio was an absolute dream with the most gorgeous, highly Instagrammable interiors and impressive floor-to-ceiling views over the city, including The Shard. The open-plan studio is designed in a soft palette of pastel pink, blue and white with geometric patterns, tactile wool and felt textures and touches of exposed concrete.

The cosy living area features a large LCD Smart TV, full-length mirror and a coffee table with art books, however the star of the show is the powder pink L-shaped sofa. Seriously, it’s the most brilliant piece of furniture, as feels plush however you sit on it. Why don’t I have one of these in my own home?

While the apartment overall is very spacious, the bedroom is quite petite, however the concrete partition cleverly gives it the combination of intimacy yet openness. The bespoke Locke Dream bed was pretty comfortable with good pillows and a stunning wool throw, but I found the linen a little too crisp and rigid.

The Kitchen

We were really impressed with the sleek, high tech kitchen complete with a top notch oven, fridge, dish washer, washing machine, digital kettle and toaster. It also has a big selection of pristine utencils and cookware, a full set of china and handily, the Hemsley + Hemsley cook book for those creative moments in the kitchen.

To get you started is a nice little care package featuring a selection of lovely T2 Teas, ground coffee pods and a healthy treat – an indulgent bar of vegan maca, vanilla and cacao nib chocolate by Doisy & Dam. There is also still mineral water and a mini bottle of milk in the fridge – a thoughtful touch.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is also really spacious and well-appointed with a bath tub and top-of-the-range shower, heated towel rail, thick and fluffy towels, wide mirror and a very generous amount of storage space.

I was excited to find a full set of Kinsey Apothecary bathroom products in delicious scents such as Salted Caramel Vanilla and Himalayan Hibiscus. This London-based body care company was a new discovery and it fits in well with Leman Locke’s approach to wellbeing and locally-sourced products.

Eating Out

It was hard to tear ourselves away from our new pad, but it’s definitely worth venturing out to try some of east London’s many exciting restaurants. We had the most amazing dinner at lively and hip Smokestak in Shoreditch (a short 15-minute walk away) and highly recommend booking a table there if you like barbecued meats with a London twist.

Also worth checking out in the nearby area are Gunpowder, HotBox London, Canto Corvino and London institution Duck & Waffle.

There is also plenty going on at Leman Locke with in-room spa treatments by Viva Therapies, a cultural programme including yoga, meditation and cooking, as well as Locke Coves that can be booked complimentary for quiet time through a House Host.

Impressions

Leman Locke is a real game changer for London and its beautifully-designed studios are so inspiring that you might find yourself trying to recreate the look at home. Whether it’s a staycation or an extended visit, make Leman Locke your stylish base and get to know a different side of London.

For more information and booking, visit: www.lockeliving.com

Chérie City was a guest of Leman Locke

All photos by Chérie City