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BLOG, DESTINATIONS, ENGLAND, EUROPE · December 5, 2020

Support Local: East London Gift Guide


It goes without saying that this year has been an incredibly tough one for many of us. Now more than ever, it is important that we continue supporting small businesses. Whether you’re a local or simply love East London as much as we do, check out our East London Gift Guide to support the amazing businesses in our community.

1. For the Homebody

Mason & Painter – Nestled on Columbia Road amongst the hustle and bustle of the flower market is Mason & Painter. Here you can find antique homewares with a shabby chic touch. The entire shop is thoughtfully curated and would be something special for someone special.

Oneironaut – You will smell Oneironaut on Brick Lane before you see it! This handmade candle and incense shop creates unique crave-able scents that anyone on your list would be happy to fill their home with. Bonus, the candles come in clay pots that can be reused for flowers or pants once you have used up the candle.

Labour and Wait – Well-designed products that people will actually use? Look no further than Labour and Wait. From hardware to clothing, they offer a top-notch selection of timeless goods.

2. For the Trendsetter

Aida – Part cafe, part independent concept store, make sure to visit Aida. They carry Scandinavian style menswear and womenswear, as well as homeware. Simple and unique, you can rest assured anything bought from Aida is quality. Many of the brands they carry are also eco conscious, including my favourite, the Girlfriend Collective.

Article – These guys pride themselves on stocking globally sourced streetwear and do a damn good job of it. Great stop for the fashion forward man in your life, seeing as they only stock menswear. Not a fashion forward man? Fret not. They also have a great homeware and unisex accessories selection.

Goodhood – Effortlessly cool. Like most places in Shoreditch, you may even question if you’re hip enough to be there. Jokes aside! You can always count on Goodhood to have a highly curated selection of minimalist menswear, womenswear and lifestyle luxuries.

3. For the Luxe Lounger

Okay, confession. I can’t be sure that any of these next three brands are located in East London. BUT, they are local to London and are worth considering as a gift for any loved on.

Desmond & Dempsey – Pyjamas that will make sleeping feel like a special occasion. I especially love the eclectic and unique prints their sets come in. You can read about how each print has been created on their website.

Drift Sleepwear – Another brand to brighten up bedtime is Drift Sleepwear. They create punchy men’s pyjamas and pride themselves on being sustainability focused.

Beija– Beautiful lingerie made for women of all shapes and sizes. Whether gifting it or getting it, Beija is sure to make the recipient feel spicy and special!

4. For the Hobbyist

Skandihus – Give the gift of a new skill with pottery classes at Skandihaus. They offer taster classes for those trying out pottery for the first time, as well as 6 or 12 week long courses for students looking to advance their skills and meet new people in the process.

Flashback Records– Since getting a record player 6 months ago, we have loved collecting vinyls from artists old and new. If there is a music lover in your life, vinyls feel extra thoughtful. Just make sure they have a record play to play them on! Flashback Records has three stores in London, the Islington location being our favourite. Their staff is always super helpful and their selection is incredible.

5. For the Little Ones

Luna & Curious – This shop aaalmost has me longing for a tiny human. Luna & Curious is the perfect stop for unique clothes, toys and books for the kids in your life. They also carry gorgeous homewares and accessories for the grown ups. How’s that for one-stop shopping?

Bob and Blossom – This shop makes their own line of pint-sized apparel ranging from super soft t-shirts and sweatshirts to tutus and capes. Check out Bob and Blossom, in addition to a number of other great shoppes on this list, while visiting the Columbia Road flower market.

6. For the Coffee Craver

Hackney Coffee Co – One my favourite cafes in London to hole up for the afternoon with my laptop, a big cup of coffee, and a pastry. Hackney Coffee Co make their own speciality coffee. The perfect gift for the caffeine addict on your list.  

Sabretooth Hoxton – Our local coffee shoppe, I visit Sabretooth Hoxton at least twice a week. Not only do they make a fantastic cup of coffee, they also stock a wonderful array of local goods ranging from coffee and speciality sweets to jams and sauces. 

7. For the Foodie

A Portuguese Love Affair – This deli, wine shop, and cafe is voted as having the best pastel de nata in the UK, which is one very good reason to visit. A Portuguese Love Affair is one of my favourite restaurants in London for a casual afternoon and absolutely can’t be missed. Another good reason to visit is their fantastic selection of wines, beautifully packaged tin fish, and hand-picked selection of wholesale goods. 

Little Duck the Picklery – A fermenting kitchen and wine bar in Dalston, this restaurant is a real gem. If you can treat someone to breakfast, lunch, or dinner around their communal kitchen counter, don’t think twice. If not, Little Duck make seasonal ferments, pickles, and drinks ready for takeaway. They also have a seriously good selection of natural wines. 

8. For the Green Thumb

Grace & Thorn – This East London florist prides themselves on making no two floral arrangements the same and each one is more swoon-worthy than the last. Grace & Thorn also carry house plants, homewares, and seriously stunning hand-wrapped gift boxes. If I haven’t convinced you, a visit to their shop will. You’ll be struggling to leave empty handed. 

In Bloom & In Habit – Two shops are better than one? For In Bloom and In Habit this much is true. In Bloom is my go-to shop for beautiful vases and plant pots, while In Habit offers lovely stationary and home decor. The shops are located right next to each other on Columbia Road, so you’re sure to find something special without having to go too far. 

9. For the Tipple Tipper

Seven Seasons Bottle Shop – Who doesn’t need a drink or two after this dumpster fire of a year? Yes, 2020 I’m looking at you. If it is beer you fancy, be sure to check out Seven Season’s seriously impressive selection. They also sell ciders, wines and spirits if you’re looking for something of the less hoppy variety. 

Passione Vino – For my fellow winos out there, look no further than Passione Vino. This sassy wine shop proudly stocks small, independent, Italian wines. Perfect to grab something different and delicious for your next dinner party or something special for a wine-loving friend.

10. For the Book Worm

Artwords Bookshop – This independent book shop has two locations, one in Shoreditch and the other in London Fields. Artwords stock books and magazines on contemporary visual culture, all of which are beautiful and would be ideal for anyone’s coffee table. 

Word on the Water – Arguably saving the best for last, meet Word on the Water. A 100 year old Dutch barge with a vast selection of second hand and new books. If that doesn’t sound majestic enough, they also have a wood burning stove onboard and host acoustic music artists on their roof stage. If you’re looking for a particular book, you can request it through their website ahead of time. They also offer 6-month book subscriptions and pre-loved book boxes. 

Conclusion to Our East London Gift Guide

If there are any shops I missed, please comment below! We are so lucky to have countless incredible small businesses in East London and I look forward to continuing to discover more. If you’re looking for additional small businesses across London to check out, be sure to read my Guide to Supporting Local Businesses During & After Lockdown, which I put together with a handful of local London travel bloggers. 

No matter the holiday or occasion, I am confident there is something for everyone in our East London Gift Guide. Happy shopping!


In: BLOG, DESTINATIONS, ENGLAND, EUROPE

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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

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GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

STAY // The Square Peg Hotel was an oasis overlooking the city. In addition to the incredible views, they also have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve traditional curries in the evening & Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning.
This time last year Dave surprised me with an over This time last year Dave surprised me with an overnight trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and it’s still one of my favorite weekend trips we’ve done while living in San Diego. Here’s a mini guide and some inspo to make the trip! 

GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

SEE // Font’s Point at sunset is a can’t miss with views across the badlands that i imagine are akin to Mars. Check out my latest reel for a few tips on how to get there.

Awin

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