Beauty & Skincare Staples for Every Day
Sharing my current beauty and skincare favourites — the products I truly can’t live without. Each one is chosen for its simplicity, performance, and ability to keep my skin healthy, glowing, and cared for. From versatile makeup essentials to skincare saviours for dry or sensitive skin, these are the essentials I reach for every single day
Somewhere Special: Tucked Away in Lisbon’s Praça das Flores, a Charming Bistro Called Magnolias
Last summer, I left Belfast behind for the sun-drenched streets of Portugal. Among the bustling streets of Lisbon, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—a charming bistro tucked away in the enchanting Praça das Flores. Magnolias felt like a little haven. With its beautifully crafted small plates and an inviting wine list, it was the perfect place to pause, savor a glass of wine, and soak up the gentle hum of life around me. Surrounded by the laughter of children, the rustling trees, and the soothing fountain, this chic wine bar was a firm favorite for me—and definitely somewhere I will return to.
Decadent Sourdough French Toast with Caramelized Nectarines & Apricot Vanilla Cream
Soft, golden French toast meets caramelized nectarines and apricots, finished with rich vanilla pistachio cream. A simple recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
A Long Weekend in Porto: Handpicked Spots to Stay, Eat & Drink
A long weekend in Porto — from beautiful cafés and hidden wine bars to artful stays and sunlit streets. Here are a couple of my personal favourite spots to eat, drink, and explore.
Warm, Creamy, and Sweet: Autumn Breakfast Porridge with Blueberry Compote & Cinnamon
Halfway There: Thoughts and Stories from Days Seven to Nine on the Camino Portugués
These days on the Camino offered a blend of restful pauses and intense physical effort. I savored the slow pace and riverside charm of Ponte de Lima, tackled a steep ascent through vineyards and forests, and crossed into Spain’s historic town of Tui. Along the way, the trail grew busier and I discovered new reasons to reflect—both inwardly and alongside fellow pilgrims.
Day Four to Six: My Next Steps on the Portuguese Camino Stories Shared, Meals Made, and Miles Walked
My First Three Days on the Portuguese Camino: Learning to Carry, Pause, and Feast
My first steps on the Portuguese Camino were filled with discovery—changing trails, tasting fresh local dishes, and soaking in the coastal beauty of northern Portugal. This blog post is about the rhythm of walking, the joy of pausing and taking it slow, and the flavors that made the journey all the more incredible. I’ll be sharing my route in three-day stages, so check back in and follow along as my Camino unfolds.
Walking the Camino Portuguese: What My Last Camino Taught Me & Some Tips On How You Can Plan Yours
In a couple of days, I’ll be setting off to walk the Camino Portuguese (Central Route), carving my way from Portugal into Spain, all the way to Santiago. Two years ago, I walked the entire Camino del Norte — an adventure that left me with more memories, stories, and personal lessons than I could have imagined. So before I arrive in Portugal I wanted to share a few reflections on what that first Camino taught me, why I’m drawn back to this walk, and some simple planning tips that might help if you’re considering walking the Camino.
Super Simple: Roasted Garlic, Feta & Tomato in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Roasted cherry tomatoes, feta & garlic with olive oil — an easy appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. Serve with crusty bread for a simple, crowd-pleasing starter that’s bursting with flavor.
Somewhere Special: Bibi’s — A Cozy, Delicious Brunch Spot in Dublin
Somewhere Special: Find Bibi’s in Portobello — a warm, eclectic café serving up locally sourced brunch that’s perfect for lazy mornings and long chats. A must visit for your Dublin brunch list!
Saturday Supper: Tarragon & Orange Chicken from Emily Scott’s Sea & Shore Cookbook
With summer finally arriving in Northern Ireland, I cooked Emily Scott’s Tarragon & Orange Chicken—a dish that feels like the season itself: bright, tender, and filled with gentle herbal notes. It was one of those meals where the sauce alone makes you close your eyes for a moment. In this piece, I share how I made it (just a little adapted), and why it’s a recipe I’ll come back to every time the days grow long and warm.
The Perfect Breakfast Bowl: Matcha, Baked Apple and Apricots, Granola, Pistachios, Honey & Greek Yogurt with a Touch of Thyme
Sunday Citrus Vibes: Blood Orange & Creamy Goats Cheese Salad
Somewhere Special: ROSA ET AL – A Dreamy Spot in Porto’s Cedofeita Neighbourhood
Tucked away in Porto’s artsy Cedofeita quarter, ROSA ET AL is a gem I stumbled upon by happy accident—a converted townhouse with elegant suites, a sun-dappled garden, and a deli brimming with local wines and artisanal treats. It’s a beautifully restored space where soft garden light, thoughtful plates, and the gentle hum of a hidden kitchen all come together in quiet harmony. It’s definitely somewhere I’ll return to.
Summer Salad: Buffalo Mozzarella, Parma Ham, Tomato & Shallot with Honey-Lemon Dressing
Whipped Feta with Mint, Basil & Chive on Sourdough (with Blue Tomatoes, Cucumber, Honey & Nuts)
Tranquil Spaces, Noisy Streets: A Foodies Marrakesh Story
In November, I set off on a solo trip to Marrakesh, drawn by curiosity and the promise of colour, texture, and hidden beauty. What I found was a city of striking contrasts—where vibrant souks pulse with life just beyond tranquil courtyards filled with birdsong. In this blog, I share reflections on where I stayed, what I ate, the people I met, and some snapshots of my travels. Whether you’re dreaming up your own adventure or simply want to wander with me for a moment, I hope this piece brings the city to life for you.
Baked Tarragon, Spinach and Feta Eggs
These baked tarragon and spinach eggs are a great way to start your day. They’re creamy, satisfying, and full of goodness — with protein from the eggs and fibre and iron from the spinach. It’s an easy way to enjoy a balanced, nourishing breakfast that keeps you feeling full and energised. I hope you enjoy it!