bananandlaces — The Collyer Twins

Posts in Travel

What better way to spend a midweek than escaping the doom and gloom of London and jetting off to the beautiful, sunny island of Mallorca for a couple of days?

We went out with womenswear HUSH to showcase their new summer collection and were also joined by some other amazing bloggers, Liv Purvis, Lizzie Hadfield, Hannah Crosskey and Carlie Tasker. Now, for those that aren’t familiar with the brand, it is perfect for any summer getaway. Think relaxed, comfortable yet stylish. Perfect for beach cover-ups, bohemian linen shirts and flowy dinner dresses on a warm summers evening. We now have our holiday wardrobe sorted!

Our stay was spent in a beautiful boutique hotel , Hotel Cala Sant Vicenç which is close to Pollenca on Mallorca’s North West Coast. With just 38 bedrooms, each room has a balcony with views across the village to the sea or over the lovely outdoor swimming pool and lush gardens towards the rugged mountain scenery. They recently re-opened in April and after a whole redesign and refurb, the new contemporary look is luxurious, combining the best of local tradition and culture.

Cala Sant Vicenc is a beautiful secluded resort village, just a 45 minute drive north from the countries capital , ‘Palma’ , where the majority of the population reside. But at this time of year, there are few tourists and it’s pretty peaceful, making it perfect for us to explore the place at our own free will. The location of the hotel is stunning. A few minutes walk and you're surrounded by these lush little coves with the most beautiful turquoise and transparent water. I was shocked at how crystal clear the water was. Now, in most cases, we’d be the first to jump in, but at the this time of year the water is still a bit chilly so we resorted in staying on land and topping up the tans. ( Slightly regretting this now, looking back at how inviting the water looks in these photos!)

Although we only stayed for a couple of days, we managed to squeeze enough in to give you a few recommendations and ‘Must- do’s’ if you ever plan to visit Cala San Vicenc or Pollenca. I’m going back a few more times this summer for weddings, and I literally can’t wait!

1. Take a trip to Pollenca - Pollenca is a 15 minute drive from Cala San Vicenc. It is an ancient town of attractive narrow streets and an impressive main square, lined with cafés, restaurants and bars. It has a rich history and beautiful churches and art galleries too, if you're interested in that kind of thing! We had a lovely, very well cultured tour guide, who showed us round the cute cobbled streets and talked to us about the history and culture of Pollenca.

2. Go cycling - Cycling is huge in Cala San Vicenc, so much so that the hotel had it's own cycling concierge which was extremely handy! You also see more cyclists than you do cars and they all seem to be given right of way. Power to the cyclists, is all I say! So on Wednesday morning the hotel arranged a lovely guide who led us all the way to Puerto Pollensa. This was about a 25 minute cycle but it was so beautiful. Cycling with the sun on our faces, we passed such stunning scenery and rode past picturesque orange and olive groves. A part of the way is on the main road, but again, don’t be scared as cyclists are pretty much given right of way! I felt safe the whole time. If your cycling to Puerto Pollenca, make sure to go on a Wednesday as this is then the market is on which is well worth a visit.

3. Hit up the market in Puerto Pollenca - The market takes place every Wednesday in Puerto Pollenca and here you can find everything from fresh fruits, olives and produce to amazing local hand-made arts and crafts and jewellery. And if you don’t fancy shopping, go sit in a cute cafe by the water and sip on a freshly squeezed orange juice. It's that time of season too, so they taste divine!

4. Visit a vineyard and go wine tasting - If you’re anything like us, nothing beats a nice glass of rose in the sun and a glass of red wine with dinner. There are a few vineyards located around Pollenca, so when we got the chance to visit one (organised by the hotel) we were pretty chuffed! We tried a variety of different roses and some lovely mature red wines. An afternoon very well spent!

5. Visit the Hotel Illa d'Or - This wellness and Spa hotel, located in Puerto Pollenca was founded in 1929 and is a stunning, white washed modern hotel with traditional touches. We were given a lovely tour of some of the rooms which have incredible views of the beach. The best part was dining at their outdoor restaurant located on the port over the water. If you like lots of courses and exquisite fine dining, then this is definitely a place for you!

Shop The Look:

Travel, FashionCollyer TwinsMay 7, 2017Favourites

Hollywood Dreamers

Hollywood, home to the rich, famous and endless dreamers. Need I say anymore, this place was literally the BOMB and just how you've got it pictured in your head... The never ending palm trees, the pristine streets of Hollywood and the continuous stream of immaculate people walking down every street corner... Yes, it's as real as the movies.

For the majority of our visit we stayed right in the hub of West Hollywood in a gorgeous AirBnB only 10 minutes from Melrose & Sunset Blvd.

The first weekend we arrived we took a quick whirlwind trip down to Palm Springs to experience the parties happening around Coachella (those who saw our Instagram stories would have seen it was an epic/ mental 24 hours! )

When we ventured back to West Hollywood we spent most of our days exploring, mingling and indulging in all that American cuisine has to offer. Yes, we consumed our body weight in american candy, nachos and the obligatory 'In 'n' Out' burgers as well as every cocktail under the sun! (Delish!)

Below we've compiled a small list of stand out places that we loved and would highly recommend checking out if you're ever in La la land.

The Warwick - If you're looking for a big night out look no further than the Warwick on Sunset Blvd, part cocktail lounge part Hollywood club. A space suited to bottle/table service but with an edgy/ rustic feel to it.. Go on a Wednesday, it's when most industry people go so more of a scenester crowd, if you're into that...

Zinque - The perfect brunch spot with a super cute outdoor patio (make sure you sit outside if the weather holds up) the interior is equally as gorgeous with a really cool vibe. If you're going for brekkie I'd recommend the egg white fritata bowl. The burger however looks sensational!

Soho House - You have to be a member to come here, but if you get the chance it's worth a visit not only for a cheeky cocktail and some celeb spotting but also the bathrooms have the most insane views of LA! You could easily spend the day here as it has a cinema room, roof garden and an intimate club room! That's you're Friday night sorted!

Sugar Fish - The best sushi you will find in LA no doubt! I never liked tuna sashimi until I came here. It's an intimate & modest space where all focus lies purely on the tastebuds! Service is fab and the staff are super friendly. Make sure you get the 'Trust Me' platter, it's a mix of maki rolls, sashimi and sushi cones and the perfect amount if you're hungry.

Pink Taco - Teeeeequilaaa! As Mexico as their neighbour it's no doubt that the food is the real deal here and also why the locals go crazy for it! This place is a quirky and vibey spot. Not only are the Margaritas delicious, the shrimp fajitas are some of the best I've tried. tip: Don't fill up on the endless nachos they bring you when you arrive!

Malibu - The city west of L.A., If you're looking for a beach day, Malibu is you're place. Also perfect for a spot of surfing, beware though the water is icy so be sure to take a wetsuit! It's definitely one of the prettiest beaches and known for it's surrounding celebrity homes! Keep you're eyes peeled for Anthony Hopkins. ;)

Melrose Avenue - The cutest place with some adorable boutiques and fashionable juicery's! Make sure you go to the 'liquid juice bar' and order the 'nutty professor.' OMG you haven't lived until you try this smoothie. For all you fashionistas make sure you take a trip to fashion store Reformation (this is what clothing dreams are made of.) It's pricey but worth every penny. Afterwards head to 'Carrera cafe' for a pastry and coffee. (Insta worthy for sure!)

Shop our look:

Travel, FashionCollyer TwinsApril 28, 2017favourites

L.A. - Our packing guide

So the countdown begins. T minus 3 days until we'll be in LA, sitting pool side, margarita in one hand and a burrito in the other, listening to some funky tunes and chillaxing to the max...Okay, not exactly that but you get the vibe. Haha

For all you avid, stylish travellers, do any of you find packing a bit of a chore? We certainly used to and in the past we've always done a throw in jobby hoping that a few dresses, shorts and flip-flops will suffice, when, lo and behold, we've forgotten the most crucial shirt for that one big occasion.

Now, however, with travelling becoming a regular stint we've become quite the strategic packers. (I'd like to think so anyway.) Planning specific outfits for events/ occasions has been an absolute life saver, and that's exactly what we've done for LA.

So we've teamed up with Reiss to create the ultimate packing guide and shed some insight into our top tips and fave items we'll be taking with us.

What are your top 3 in-flight essentials?

Jordan: My Master & Dynamic headphones, lip balm & candy kittens

Loanne: Comfy socks, headphones, a good moisturiser (La mer hydrating serum is my ultimate fave!)

What’s your top tip for packing when you’re away for a long period of time?

Plan at least 3 different looks before you go! For LA we've gone for:

Beach vibes: Reiss floral bikini, Reiss white trainers or pink trainers, a pair of Monokel black sunnies & tortoiseshell sunnies

Night out: a light satin shirt, black shorts , black suede mules and a clutch

Brunch/ day party: blue suit, a white shirt and my vanity bag

Which are your favourite pieces in your suitcase for this trip?

Jordan: Reiss white leather sneakers, Cleo glasses, vintage biker jacket

Loanne: My Monokel sunnies, my black leather jacket - absolutely perfect for a breezy evening at Coachella! Get me there now!

How do you adapt your style for a trip to somewhere like L.A?

Jordan: More colourful dresses & shorts

Loanne: Swap the culottes and the jeans for boho dresses and the boots for the sandals and open toed shoes.The blacks will turn to whites and brighter colours!

Top 3 tracks you'll be listening to on-route to LA?

Jordan: Drake-Ice melts & Do not disturb, Childish Gambino - Redbone

Loanne: Drake- Passionfruit, Childish Gambino - Redbone, Chi Town- Mele

What one key trend do you think everyone should buy into this summer?

Jordan: Anything pink!! Anything from a ruffled pink T to some candy cotton slip-ons

Loanne: Ruffles and stripes! I've just bought a new ruffled shirt, it's perfect for summer and I love the shape it gives to clothing. You also can't go wrong with stripes, for me they always bring me back to summer time.

Do you believe that less is more or you can you never have too many clothes?

Jordan: I've always been a less is more kinda gal, even if i buy loads of clothes I'll always gravitate back to my go-to pieces

Loanne: I think it's important to have your staple, timeless pieces which are long lasting and which go with everything. However, with the majority of my clothes, I wear them a few times and then I want something new. So in that sense, I can never have too many clothes!

Travel, LifestyleCollyer TwinsApril 10, 2017

Port Lympne - A luxury escape

I've always loved the idea of a quick escape out of London, especially when luxury tree houses, wild animals, countryside and beautiful spring weather are all involved. Last week, my boyfriend turned the very big 3-0 and what better way to spend it than escaping the hustle and bustle of London for a bit of luxury and fun? So Port Lympne, was without a doubt my first port of call. I went there last year on a press trip and absolutely loved it, so heading back there was a must.

For those that don't know or have never been, I suggest you do! Port Lympne is a wild animal park based in Kent. Set over 600 acres, it is home to the UK’s most authentic safari experience, home to 100 acres full of African animals. Now, I know what some of you may be thinking.... It's basically a zoo, it's cruel for wild animals not to be kept in their natural habitats and trust me, I do not like the way animals are treated or the whole idea of zoos either. However, Port Lympne is owned by a conservation charity dedicated to protecting wildlife. They work alongside the Aspinall Foundation where they introduce animals back in to the wild. In fact, on our safari tour, all the amazing silverback gorillas we saw, were all shortly being sent back to the Congo. All the staff that work there have incredible knowledge and passion for the animals and you can tell they are all treated really well.

The minute we arrived, we were sent out on our own private safari tour with our guide, Jake, he was brilliant and so enthusiastic. The highlights of the safari, had to be feeding the giraffes and the endangered black rhinos, as well as seeing these beautiful Siberian tigers. It's home to so many beautiful, endangered and rare species and being at such close proximity is really something special.

As we finished our safari, we were taken to the clubhouse where we were presented with a couple of glasses of champagne and marshmallows to roast on the beautiful log fire. I mean, what a way to welcome your guests. Shortly after, we made our way to our accommodation for the night, the treehouses! I've always been a sucker for a treehouse and the feeling of sleeping outside in the wild. However, these are slightly more luxurious than your typical wooden treehouse. These are instead beautiful, small glass bungalows set high up in the trees, each with their own balcony overlooking the wildlife reserve. On a clear day, you can also see the coast, which isn't too far away, making for such breathtaking views.

We were also given access to buggies during our stay. So in the afternoon, we went round at our leisure, exploring more of the safari park and cruising round in the sun. In 2016 Port Lympne opened the Dinosaur Forest giving visitors the chance to step into a jurassic world with the largest collection of life-sized Dinosaurs in Europe which made for a quick and fun pitstop on our buggies. Port Lympne Reserve also incorporates a historic mansion and beautiful landscaped gardens which were designed during World War I, the grounds are stunning, so we were very much content just walking around them and exploring, which we did for a couple of hours in the afternoon.
Before sunset, we made our way back to the treehouse, cracked open a bottle of wine and chilled on the outdoor sofa, watching the amazing sunset, which I must admit, even for England was an impressive one.

That evening, we were treated to a delicious dinner at the main hotel in this stunning room, intricately painted with wild animals, emanating the landscape around us. Now, I'm always normally one for staying up and out of the house but with accommodation like we had, I was all up for getting the buggies straight back to our treehouses to relax there for the evening, which is exactly what we did.

The next morning was absolute bliss. We were provided with two hampers full of cereals, bread, jams, you name it, a real luxury DIY brekkie! Genius idea! Forget the bother of having to wake up ridiculously early and trekking over to a communal breakfast room (not that I don't like that once in a while) but this was so much more relaxed.
With the choice in our hands, we made a full English breakfast and devoured it on our balcony, overlooking the rhinos and giraffes with the morning sun beaming on our faces. What a way to start the day.

We spent the early afternoon exploring more of the grounds and treating ourselves to some afternoon tea in the hotel until it was time to leave. What an absolutely great little escape from the City it had been. Beautiful weather, stunning views, wild animals, a breathtaking sunset, luxury accommodation.... and I'm pretty sure it scored a few girlfriend points too!

Thank you Port Lympne, I can't wait to come back!

Grey Jumper | ASOS

Jeans | New Look

Yellow Jumper | Topshop

Sunnies | Rayban

TravelCollyer TwinsApril 7, 2017Favourites

Valencia: A taste of Las Fallas

On Friday, Loanne and I jetted off to Valencia with the Spanish liquor brand 'Licor 43' to experience 'Las Fallas' festival, a riotous week of city fires, explosions and parades in honour of Saint Joseph (the city's patron saint). It was our first time to Valencia and our first time experiencing 'Las Fallas.'

I must admit the idea of firecrackers and explosions going off down every street corner made me slightly apprehensive but as soon as we arrived the streets were heaving and there was an electric buzz in the air.

Upon arrival to our hotel room (which was situated in the heart of the festival) we were welcomed with a bottle of the original Licor 43. This was the first time we had tried or even heard of the liquor and what a pleasant surprise, it was so sweet & delicious and a great taster of what was to come over the next 43 hours.

Below I've summarised our highlights of the festival (there's also a video that captures the full experience too). For any of you who want to experience something a little different, I would recommend Las Fallas as the city really does come alive! I'd advise staying for 2 days maximum as the continuous explosions may get a bit too much, earplugs may be a wise option.

Firework Display

Probably the most epic firework display we have ever experienced, At midnight, people gather on the Paseo de la Alameda to enjoy an epic half hour of colours and lights. We were lucky enough to be at the very top of an apartment and located a few meters from where the fireworks were let off, I got a little worried at some points as I felt the fireworks were almost going to fire in our direction! Nevertheless it was an epic evening made even better by drinking 'Balon 43' cocktails, a mix of licor 43, ice and sparkling water and garnished with lemon and orange slices. Super delicious!

Mascletà

On Sunday afternoon we experienced Mascletà. This is where thousands of people gathered to watch a display of gunpowder explosions that literally had the city vibrating. The sound was like an earthquake, certainly not for the faint-hearted but an incredible experience that had all the locals in awe! Afterwards, the city’s terraces fill up as people go to enjoy a typical aperitif and some traditional Valencian food under the Mediterranean sun. Us, on the other hand, went to a cocktail making class, learning how to make ' Carajillo 43' a popular serve in Mexico which combines the strength and bitterness of espresso coffee with the spicy sweetness of Licor 43. (A perfect alternative to an espresso martini!)

Fire burning/ Nit del Foc

On the final night we had 'Nit Del Foc' where everything that is bad is burnt and reborn from the ashes to welcome a new season. The focus of the fiesta is the creation and destruction of ninots ('puppets' or 'dolls'), which are huge cardboard, wood, paper-machè and plaster statues. The ninots are extremely lifelike and usually depict satirical scenes and current events. They usually take a year to construct costing up to 75,000 US dollars! Can you imagine?! So quite naturally it's a very momentous and poignant occasion amongst the locals when the statues are finally burnt.

This was the final highlight of the festival before heading back to the hotel and getting ready for home time. (*Weep*)
What an amazing weekend trip it had been. Not only did we get to experience and immerse ourselves in such a traditional and unusual Spanish festival but we were also introduced to an absolutely delicious liquor in a beautiful city we had never explored before. Licor 43, thank you! Not only for "43 hours of pure passion" but for 43 hours of excitement, experience and a taste of deliciousness we'll savour for a long time!

TravelCollyer TwinsMarch 28, 2017Featured

Cape Town Adventures

If you haven't been to Cape Town before, then I hope this post will spark an ounce of curiosity or better yet a desire to explore the Mother city. When my good friend Danielle told me she was getting married in Cape Town, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to extend my stay and explore the place that so many people have been raving on about over the past year. (I certainly know why now!)

As I bid farewell to Loanne, I knew the next couple of weeks were going to be jam-packed with activities/ excursions & copious amounts of eating, drinking and celebrating the bride-to-be.

For the majority of my visit I stayed in an apartment in Mouille Point, an affluent suburb of Cape Town, situated between the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Granger Bay to the east, Green Point to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west. This really was a great spot, not only a 30 second walk from the sea but within close reach to the majority of places we visited.

I won't go into every bit of detail about the trip as I'm sure the pictures can speak for themselves, so instead I've rounded up my highlights, the must-do's and see's if you ever plan on visiting Cape Town (you'd be silly not too!)

Things To Do

Hike Table Mountain - Probably the best hike I've ever done. We took the India Venster route, which is arguably the best half-day route to the summit, offering insane city and sea views. We managed to do it in an hour and a half (but with a very speedy pace). This treck is certainly not for the faint-hearted or someone with compromising fitness levels as 20% of the route presented narrow & steep ledges and involved some serious monkey climbing! I'd totally advise going to watch the sunset, we set off around 6pm and made it to the top just in time. We celebrated with wine and chocolate brownies whilst taking in the breath-taking views, we could even see venus in all it's brightness and glory, it was a real moment!) Make sure to get the cable cars down, it's equally as fun.

Morning Kayaking - I am definitely an outdoor enthusiast so waking up at 6am to go kayaking and dolphin spotting was definitely up there on my list of to-do's! We went with an instructor from 7am-9am and embarked on a 3 – 5 km journey towards Granger bay. A great way to start the day and spotting dolphins a meter from our kayaks was the ultimate cherry on top!

Spa day at the Twelve Apostles - I always love a pamper day when I'm abroad, not just because I'm in the ultimate relaxation mode but also to check out the variations that Spa's abroad have to offer. I booked in for a full Swedish massage (I'm particularly fussy about massages but this one was a real winner!) Not only was it a great massage the setting was simply beautiful. We were in an outdoor Gazebo nestled in the majestic mountains overlooking the Atlantic ocean, it really was an idyllic setting surrounded by nature. We spent the afternoon enjoying the spa facilities, especially the unique Salt Water Flotation Pool which was the ultimate relaxing experience (supposedly 20 minutes is equivalent to a full two hours of sleep!)

Boulders Beach - If you're a penguin lover then look no further than Boulder's Beach, we spent the day sunbathing here surrounded by the little cheeky chappies who are more than happy to go about their day-to- day unfazed by the masses of people capturing shots around them. These South African Penguins – formerly known as jackass penguins because of their distinctive braying – are the only penguins found on the continent. Make sure you stop off and pick up some old-school fish and chips at Kalky's and eat them over at the pier (beware of the greedy seagulls though!)

Summer Sunset Concert at Kirstenbosch - Grab your picnic baskets and don't forget the wine! The Summer Sunset concert is an outdoor live music series set amongst the stunning Botanical gardens. We spent the afternoon enjoying music from Jazz/ rock artist Dan Patlansky. It was such a fun day out and the ultimate Sunday session with friends. (If only we had this in London!)

Places To Eat

The Bungalow- I'm a huge foodie (as you probably all know) and this was by far my favourite lunch spot, not just for the delicious food & vibey atmosphere but the views of the Atlantic ocean were epic. Upon arrival we were greeted by extremely friendly staff who made our lunch experience so much nicer. We started off with a bottle of bubbly which felt extremely fitting with the ambience of the place. My friend and I shared the most mouth-watering seafood platter, a delicate selection of crayfish tails, prawns, calamari and langoustines and linefish. It was the perfect amount for two which we washed down with delicious watermelon martinis shortly after. Now for the desserts, a slice of baked cheesecake and coconut panna cotta, pure heaven on a plate is all I can say, (I'd go back just for the panna cotta and watermelon martinis they were that good!) This is a definite must for all foodies who want a lively atmosphere and a stunning view to accompany it!

Grand Cafe & Beach- Set within a restored warehouse, Grand Cafe & Beach is positioned on a private beach in Granger Bay. We went Friday lunch time and ended up staying all day as the atmosphere was pumping and the DJ's were playing some epic house tunes. 4 cocktails down and we were dancing the afternoon away!

Places To Visit

Webersburg Wine Estate -Stellenbosch - I'd probably go as far as saying this is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. I literally felt as though I was on set for the Sound of Music. This was where the wedding took place, a historic cape dutch homestead and boutique winery nestled on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains in Stellenbosch which is South Africa's Premium wine producing area. If any of you are looking for a wedding venue, this is your place!

Bo-Kaap - I fell in love with the streets of Bo-Kaap, it's brightly coloured houses (pure Instagram heaven) and deep rooted history evokes a captivating & exotic ambience to the place. The Bo-Kaap was formerly known, as the Malay Quarter and has been the traditional home of Cape Town’s Muslim population since the second half of the eighteenth century. Definitely worth an afternoon visit, if only to take a few snaps!

Where To Stay

TAJ Hotel- If you're looking for a 5* resort with the most incredible views of Table Mountain, this is your place! We were lucky enough to have a complimentary stay here. We loved our room so much that we ordered room service for dinner & breakfast and feasted in our ridiculously comfortable beds. The TAJ quintessentially Indian in its fabric, offers world-class refinement while remaining deeply rooted in its local heritage. If you stay here I'd advise ordering breakfast to your room, we indulged in a stack of delicious berry pancakes, brioche french toast and a vegetable frittata whilst admiring the incredible views. Boom!