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Life

Coffee Confessions

3rd February 2017

Some of you might already know this, but for those who don’t I have a confession to make… takes a deep breath and sips on an extra-shot latte with soya I’m a coffee addict.

I don’t know about you but coffee shop is where I’m the most productive and inspired. From Notes to Associations, coffee helps me (in Kylie Jenner’s voice) to realise things and really put things in the right order.

At one point, I was so obsessed about coffee that I have made a 10-minute documentary called “Coffee Jugglers (2013)”. You can watch it below. Let me know what you think in the comments section below.

Coffee aside, I’ve now entered my late-20s era and when I look back there are a few things that I would tell to my early-20s self.

Here are 26 things that I’ve learned in my early-20s that I wish I knew earlier:

Gratitude is the key to happiness.
Live in the moment.
Surround yourself with people who inspire you.
Don’t compare yourself to others.
Everyone is just as confused as you are.
The people who you think have their shit together are usually the most messed up.
You don’t have to have your life sorted by 26.
Be kind to other people.
The high number of selfies you take does not make you vain or insecure, you’re simply a perfectionist.
Accept criticism but don’t let it devalue your hard work.
If you are feeling down, don’t keep this to yourself, talk to someone. Chances are that they have felt the same way.
“Liking” or “commenting” on Instagram will never replace a compliment delivered in person.
Not everything needs to be shared on social media, and that includes Snapchat.
Go offline for at least 2 hours every day.
FOMO fades away after a while and you will realise that there’s nothing to miss out on.
The best friendships start when you are brave enough to say “Hello. How are you? What’s your name? Where are you from? And what is your National Insurance Number?”.
It’s best to leave some things to the imagination.
Happy couples aren’t always happy.
You will never find love when you’re desperately looking for it. Love comes when you least expect it.
The guys you party with don’t necessarily have the best interest in you.
You might make new friends over time but the best ones are those who have been there for you this whole time.
Sundays are way more fun when you’re not hangover or tired.
There’s more to you than your sexuality.
If you can’t find any role models – try to become one.
Make a plan of where you want to be in 10 years time.
It’s never too late to start something.

VISIT: Craft Coffee Roasters in Dublin, Ireland.

Travel

The Mighty Craic

1st February 2017

Last week, I teamed up with Outsavvy, an LGBT ticketing guide, to experience the Irish capital Dublin. This is our second international trip (first one being Magical Pride at Disneyland® Paris) and it’s part of their “travel package deal” launch. I cannot wait to share more information on this very soon!

Prior to our trip to Dublin, my thoughts on the Irish capital were: Guinness, Sinéad O’Connor and evil Leprechauns. Of course, all of those things do exist but I had no idea that this city has so much more to it. Pretty much every single pub has it’s own irish folk band playing live music and their cuisine is way better than in Britain (sorry about it).

For three (3) full days, we ran around Dublin like it’s rush hour to discover the best places to eat, drink and have a jolly good time. Scroll down to continue…

Here’s my complete Dublin City guide, featuring a copious amounts of Guinness and donuts with bacon… No, I’m serious, donuts with BACON! Read on…

Food

The Old Mill at The Temple Bar – when you wake up with a sober hangover and only have €10 left from last night. This fabulous little pub in Temple Bar serves the best Irish Breakfast in town with unlimited teas and coffees. Perfect start of the day!
The Rolling Donut – probably the biggest cultural shock of 2017 – donuts with bacon (pictured above)! It may sound odd but it tastes sooo yummy, almost as good as them pancakes with bacon and maple syrup (thanks New York City). Other than that, there are plenty of other flavours to choose from. Who would’ve thought that Dublin is so hip?!
KLAW – crabshack dining experience in the heart of Dublin. We tried Sampler Menu 2, which has 5 different types of oysters. Super fresh and delicious, we are definitely coming back for more.
The Blazen Head – established in 1198, “The Blazen Head” is Ireland’s oldest running pub. It’s almost as old as Lithuania, can you imagine?! Order the Irish Stew, it amazing.

Drink

Peadar Kearney’s Pub – among the dark woods, antique mirrors and faded walls, this authentic pub brings together locals (and tourists) who just love to kick back and listen to some live irish music. This was the first place I tried the Genuine-Irish-Guinness. *inserts guilty emoji here* I know, I have sinned but imagine going to a place and not trying/doing something that the place is known for. In this case, I had to try an alcoholic beverage (full of nutrients, btw) whilst being absent from alcohol.
The Foggy Dew – situated next to the Central Bank Square, “The Foggy Dew” is a great place to start your night out. Favourite feature: the Irish music recording certificates hanging on walls.
The Temple Bar Pub – this pub is like a department store – once you’re in you can’t find your way out. The craic is mighty and the music is thar barr, so there’s no reason to leave.

Dance

Pantibar – as Ireland’s national f**king treasure, “Pantibar” was EVERYTHING! Friendly customers, cheap booze and DJs playing the best tunes out there. Just imagine, a 10-minute Britney Spears medley playing in the background whilst you (not me) are drinking a pint of double vodka for €5 and dancing on tables like nobody’s watching. My Snapchat story was on fire that night.
The George – Dublin’s most popular gay club. Similar to “The Temple Bar”, I struggled to find my way out, but that was after 2 hours of intense “choreography”, which I “performed” on the main stage. Entry is €5.
Mother Club – a sub-terrain queer club featuring intense flashing lights and quality electro sounds. Peak hours are 1am-3am on Saturdays. Check out their Facebook page for cheaper entry. Entry is €5-10.

Touristy Stuff

National Gallery of Ireland – the greatest collection of European and Irish fine art. I went to see the Turner 2017 exhibition and it was quite a treat. Admission is free.
Guinness Storehouse – for every Guinness drinker out there. Entry from €14.
Dublin Docklands – looks beautiful and has it’s own Snapchat filter. That’s all that you should know.

Style

Urban Vibes

18th January 2017

I don’t know about you guys, but there’s nothing more bad-ass than a suede biker jacket.

In this urban jungle, where everyone is super busy and cut-throat, all you can do is pick up your favourite set of clothing and slay through the working day.

When I first moved to London in summer 2011, I used to live in the Lambeth area, which was minutes away from the Southbank Centre. Every time I walk past the Southbank Skatepark, it brings me so many good memories of SE London. Imagine a clueless 20-year-old, who’s about to start a degree in media and secretly thinking of taking over the world. Little did he know that London would become so distracting and full of opportunities for him. How can these two dynamics work together? I don’t know, I was never good at science.

This suede biker jacket and oversized sweatshirt from ASOS is exactly what a 20-year-old me would imagine myself wearing today. I dress for the weekend every day, and that’s fine by me.

There are very few things in life that put a smile on my face and spending time with my close friends is one of them.

Last weekend, my housemate’s twin sister Constança (pictured, right) came for a visit. It was really nice to meet someone you’ve never met before but always keep hearing about. I’ve met Carlota (pictured, left) a few years ago through my best friend Alex (pictured, middle). From the minute I saw her, I knew we are going to be stuck like glue. She’s smart, caring and brings so much joy to our little London family.

We spent our day scouting around central London. From Sunday brunch at Balthazar to late afternoon drinks at The Shard, our modern day Ace of Base squad was living it up in the Big Smoke.

SHOP: Faux Suede Biker Jacket In Tan from ASOS | Oversized Sweatshirt With Back Print & Side Zips from ASOS

Life

16 Things I’ve Learned in 2016

31st December 2016

Another year has gone by and 2017 is looking rather amazing!

2016 has been the most life-changing year to date: I’ve travelled the world, embraced new experiences and moved to a new place for the first time in 4 years. My life is starting to look a lot like what I was dreaming about, 7 years ago.

In the great tradition of New Year’s resolutions, I’ve decided to share 16 things that I’ve learned in 2016 and would recommend doing in 2017. So, let’s get started…

Accept the things you cannot change… AND always try to do your best.
Stand up for what you believe in and never let anyone feed you with negative thoughts or doubt.
Spend your hard-earned money on experiences. Travel the world, go to gigs, party hard and learn something new. Material things can get lost or destroyed, but your memories will last for decades if not a lifetime.
Wake up early each morning and do something you really enjoy. Go to the gym, visit your favourite coffee shop, read a funny story on Buzzfeed… Just do something that will start your busy day on a positive note.
Stop trying hard to please people and do what’s best for you.
Drink loads of water every day. I personally like to infuse water with fresh cucumber and lemon because it’s the ultimate detox drink. Cucumbers and lemon juice flush your system and help you feel better. It’s also good for weight loss, so it’s a win-win situation.
Treat yourself to a really nice meal each month. Gather your mates and check out the latest foodie trends in your city. Explore, try something new and order that extra side to go with your meal.
Taste everything at least once! You may not like lamb testicles but there’s nothing worse than having regrets in life.
Try on a stylish new accessory this year. Whether it’s a shiny new bangle or a dapper-looking snap back, accessories are the easiest way to experiment with your style and get out of your comfort zone.
Make sure you have the following 5 wardrobe essentials: white trainers, plain white t-shirt, skinny denim jeans, slim-fit chinos (in khaki) and brown classic shoes.
Learn how to sew… or at least learn how to patch things up!
Cleanse your facial skin at least once a week. I’d recommend using clay masks or mud masks to make your skin extra smooth and fresh. Also, invest some money in a good facial scrub to exfoliate your skin daily.
Invest in a new beauty product every 3-4 months. Recently, I’ve discovered a Vitamin C serum and it’s doing wonders to my face. I use it daily and my face looks (and feels) much firmer and younger.
The secret to a photo-ready face is a mattifying powder. #SelfieGameStrong
Get lost in a foreign place… and no cheating! *Leaves the phone at home* Words cannot explain how exciting it is to meet new people and be present in the moment.
Spend one weekend a year on your own. Go abroad, rent a car or visit a place you’ve never been before. Disconnect and give yourself some “me time” for 72 hours. This can really help you to reevaluate your current situation in life and play a key role in your further success. I always get really inspired when I’m on my own, walking for hours and thinking about the future.

Have a great New Year’s eve celebration and I see you all in 2017!

VISIT: The Hoxton Hotel in Holborn for some quality food and coffee. The lounge area is perfect for working-from-home.

Life

Coffee Confessions

Some of you might already know this, but for those who don’t I have a confession to make… *takes a deep breath and sips on an extra-shot latte with soya* I’m a coffee addict.

Coffee aside, I’ve now entered my late-20s era and when I look back there are a few things that I would tell to my early-20s self.

﻿The Mighty Craic

Here’s my complete Dublin City guide, featuring a copious amounts of Guinness and donuts with bacon… No, I’m serious, donuts with BACON! Read on…

Food

Drink

Dance

Touristy Stuff

Urban Vibes

I don’t know about you guys, but there’s nothing more bad-ass than a suede biker jacket.

There are very few things in life that put a smile on my face and spending time with my close friends is one of them.

16 Things I’ve Learned in 2016

Another year has gone by and 2017 is looking rather amazing!

Have a great New Year’s eve celebration and I see you all in 2017!

skirmy

Some of you might already know this, but for those who don’t I have a confession to make… takes a deep breath and sips on an extra-shot latte with soya I’m a coffee addict.

The Mighty Craic