Sweden’s Incredible Hipster Foodie Scene

Joel Lindblad at Skedvi Bakery, Sweden

Hipster or not, here’s why you should visit Sweden for a unique, food experience.

Hipsters. It doesn’t seem to matter where I travel, I always seem to come across some. From tiny bars hidden down cobble streets in Barcelona and Caribbean hipsters drinking beer out of cans in St Kitts, to the trendsetter students in the Kallio neighbourhood of Helsinki, they appear to conform to a style, while having a few unique quirks according to the country. After reading Meet The Original Hipsters, it got me thinking about a few recent encounters with Scandi-hipsters.

Made In Kallio Helsinki
Made In Kallio, Helsinki

You know who I mean right? They’re the ones with the checked shirts, thick-rimmed glasses, heavy boots, signature beard (optional for girls!) and an air of ‘not trying’ (when actually they are).

 Typical hipster: beard – tick, checked shirt – tick, thick rimmed glasses – tick

Read more

REVIEW: Villa Mansa Wine Hotel & Spa, Lujan de Cujo, Argentina

View of the pool from upstairs at Villa Mansa Hotel

Lush gardens, ancient vines, bright blue sky with pool to match, a gourmet restaurant and views of the snow-capped Andes… Villa Mansa is a secret hideaway in the heart of Mendoza’s wine country.

After escaping the traffic of downtown Mendoza, we found ourselves in the  picturesque countryside, passing several upmarket hotels, wineries and mansions along the way. My main reason for wanting to visit the region was for the Malbec, but on top of the incredible wine, it turned out to be a great spot for a bit of R&R. Villa Mansa is at the end of a long, narrow drive, which opens out onto several rows of beautiful grapevines and antique wine making equipment.

Villa Mansa Hotel with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains
Villa Mansa Hotel with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains
Vines and old wine-making equipment at Villa Mansa Hotel
Vines and antique wine-making equipment at Villa Mansa Hotel

Read more

Ziplining In Argentina – A Canopy Tour Over Potrerillos Dam, Mendoza

Ziplining over Lake Potrerillos in Argentina

Find out all about ziplining in Argentina, at Potrerillos Dam close to Mendoza.

As I was handed a large blue hard hat, I knew straight away it wouldn’t fit. “I have a weirdly small head,” I said. They handed me another, and again it wobbled around. “Hmmmm…” I blushed. “Do you have any for children?”

Helmet on and mild humiliation almost over, I fixed the GoPro to my head, clambered into my harness, and waddled over to the first high line. I was about to go ziplining in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Afternoon view over Lake Potrerillos in Argentina
Afternoon view over Lake Potrerillos in Argentina

Read more

REVIEW: The Singular Hotel, Santiago, Chile

Lounge and Bar Area at The Singular Hotel, Santiago

Stylish décor, a rooftop swimming pool and one of the best meals I’ve eaten in a while. Welcome to 5 star luxury courtesy of The Singular Hotel, Santiago.

Arriving at The Singular Hotel is a bit like going to visit one of your oldest friends. They welcome you with open arms, ask how your journey was, and leave you to relax on a comfy sofa while they fetch you drinks and treats. It sounds strange to say it, but I felt like I’d been here before.

Courtyard Restaurant Area at The Singular Hotel, Santiago
Courtyard Restaurant Area at The Singular Hotel, Santiago
Lounge and Bar Area at The Singular Hotel, Santiago
Lounge and Bar Area at The Singular Hotel, Santiago

Read more