Often referred to as the ‘land of ice and fire’, the other worldly charms of the small, arctic, volcanic island of Iceland, which we had heard so much about did not disappoint, with the possible exception of the elusive northern lights…. adding to our reasons to re-visit.  We also only had four days, so this post doesn’t pretend to be all comprehensive.   

As always on our travels, we wanted to combine the experience with time to relax and slow down.  We also know that Iceland is on a destination list for quite a few people and wanted to share our experience, tips and recommendations, of course including a focus on food and wellbeing.

STAY: REYKAVIK

We began in the capital, Reykavik, at an apart-hotel, Townhouse 41, which we cannot recommend highly enough. The hotel is situated in the centre of Reykavik, on the main street Laugavegur, charming, spacious and filled with character.  The staff were extremely helpful with recommendations.

Reykjavik is quite small and easier to walk around than drive, amongst the colourful houses, browsing boutiques, with many cafe and restaurant options to suit all palates.  

EAT

Sandholt

Right across the road from Townhouse 41 we discovered this wonderful bakery, serving a selection of breakfast options. We loved everything about this authentic, family run artisan bakery, from the ambiance to high quality and freshness of food and options for everyone, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. 

Braud & co

A little later we were drawn in to the enticing aroma of fresh Cinnamon buns being made, so naturally we had to try these as well. These buns were vegan and an absolute must-try.

Glo

Delicious vegan cafe/restaurant, overlooking the stunning town.  What was somewhat lacking in atmosphere was certainly compensated for with exceptional vegan food.   Take aways are also offered. 

Mat Bar

A recommendation from ‘Where chefs eat”, specialising in seasonal, local ingredients. The menu showcases freshly baked flatbread with a range of delicious hot dips including mushroom, cauliflower and a baked cheese. Everything we ordered was exceptional. 

STAY

In a drive of less than 2 hours we arrived at Hotel Ranga, a log cabin hotel, perfectly situated with optimal opportunity to view the Aurora Borealis, should they appear.  Conditions essential to this phenomenon include clear skies and high aurora activity.  There is even an aurora forecast, based on solar wind and geomagnetic data monitored by NASA.

Unfortunately for us, although there was relatively high aurora activity, the skies were not clear.  Nevertheless, enjoying an outdoor hot tub under the expansive sky, was a memorable experience.   The staff were welcoming and food in the restaurant both for the evening meal and breakfast was thoroughly enjoyable.  For dinner, all six in our party chose a local speciality, Atlantic Char (a cross between salmon and trout, wild caught and sourced locally).  There were also vegan options on the menu.  

For those hoping to see and capture the Northern Lights, we’d highly recommend reading this Ultimate Step by Step Guide on How to Photograph the Northern Lights. It’s a rare phenomenon so if you’re lucky enough to see it, you’ll want to make it last! 

Iceland caters very well to dietary requirements, such as vegan and gluten free, and offer a selection of plant based milks in most cafes, including oat, soy and almond.   There also appears to be a strong focus on seasonal and sustainable food.

SEE

As much of the internal areas of Iceland are uninhabitable, there is one main road around the exterior circumference, totalling 1,339 kilometres (832 miles) in length.

The ever changing scenery along the way was both dramatic and spectacular… it is little wonder the landscape has become the backdrop for films such as Game of Thrones.

Adorable Icelandic ponies can be seen frequently while driving in Iceland.  They are very happy to oblige in a photo opportunity and welcome some attention if you can find a safe place to stop.  

Seljalandsfoss Falls

This was the first of three waterfalls we visited in Iceland.  This one originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, meandering from the eponymous volcano (made notorious for its 2010 eruption throwing European air traffic into chaos) to the Seljaland River before spilling over the precipice to create these spectacular falls.  A distinctive feature is the ability to walk behind these falls allowed a unique and unforgettable perspective.  Even though the distance is quite short, we recommend sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing for this experience.

Skogafoss Falls

Our second waterfall experience was the very impressive Skogafoss Falls.  Here it is possible to walk up to the base of the falls, where you can expect to get very wet if you go close enough, and/or hike via a fairly steep staircase to the top commanding sensational views.  In the nearby village of Skogar, there is also an outdoor museum, featuring the characteristic turf houses.  For those with more time, the hiking track between the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers we imagine to be spectacular.

Vik

Vik is the most southern town of Iceland and although having a population of only approximately 300 people, it is the largest town for some distance in either direction.  The unmistakable and much photographed church and distinctive rock formations (representing the bodies of trolls according to Icelandic Folklore) come into view on the approach to this town.   Vik is also known for its black sand beach and we are told, colonies of Icelandic Puffins and Arctic Terns during the summer months.  These species had departed on their migratory journeys to warmer climates at the time we were there. 

Unfortunately we don’t have recommendations for places to eat in Vik as the day had disappeared and dinner, hot tubs and fireplace at Hotel Ranga was beckoning our return. 

The following day, en route back to Reykjavik, we visited some of the major sights included in the famed ‘Golden Circle’.

GOLDEN CIRCLE SIGHTS

Gulfoss Falls

Gulfoss Falls, sometimes also referred to as “Golden Falls”, originating from the glacier Langjökull, feature two majestic cascades of 11 metres and 21 metres, believed to have formed at the beginning of the last age.   The energy generated by these falls is hard to fathom, producing 140 cubic metres of water every second.

Strokkur Geysir Geothermal Springs

The naturally occurring Geothermal region is also a sight not to be missed amongst the attractions within the Golden Circle.  Thought to have come into existence in the 13th century, as a result of a combination of a series of earthquakes and the eruption of one of Iceland’s many volcanoes, The Great Geysir and Strokkur Geysir are within 100 metres of each other.  Whilst the bubbling sulphuric water of the ‘Great Geysir’ can be seen, and definitely smelt, it now erupts infrequently.  However the smaller geysir ejects an impressive column of boiling water 30 metres into the cold surrounding air every 4 to 10 minutes.  There is a clear sense of when Strokkur’s eruption is imminent as the boiling becomes more rapid.

Thingvellir National Park 

The UNESCO world heritage site of Thingvellir is of high geological, cultural, historical and political importance in Iceland.  It is a key destination within the Golden Circle and unique in that it is the only place in the world where the edges of two tectonic plates are visible above sea level.  The rift between these two plates (known as the Mid-Atlantic Rift) divide Iceland, between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

We recommend Guide to Iceland and Inspired by Iceland as well as Lonely Planet for detailed information and important ways in which we, as visitors, can respect and be aware of ways in which we can impact the preservation of this extraordinary space.

The name actually means “Fields of Parliament” and is the establishment site of the general Assembly, operational between 930 and 1798.

Blue Lagoon

What a finalé!  Our last day in Iceland was spent at the ethereal Blue Lagoon.  It was a special occasion and as such we treated ourselves to a ‘Retreat spa’ day visit.  Expectations were high and yet exceeded.   The intense aqua blue and wafting steam against the backdrop of stark volcanic rock was mesmerising, whilst the heavenly temperature of the mineral rich water soothed the skin and body.  Our four hour visit seemed to disappear in an instant as we alternated between the lagoon, the sauna, steam room and the wellness ritual of cleansing scrubs and masks in the cavernous, subterranean space.

TIP: High levels of silica in the water mean that it is not the best treatment for the hair.  We recommended pre applying protective conditioner and wearing hair up.   

EAT

Lava restaurant

After our experience, we recounted our feelings of awe and we indulged in a delicious lunch in the lava restaurant, overlooking the surreal water, steam and volcanic terrain.

General tips

Driving

• Driving is by far the easiest way to get around in Iceland and we would highly recommend renting a car. Taxis and transfers are very expensive in Iceland and Uber does not yet exist. There are, however, a number of tours to choose from and this is probably a good idea if hoping to see the Northern Lights.
• We didn’t see speed limit signs, however when on paved roads outside of the city the limit is always 90 km/hour, slowing down to 80 km/hour on gravel rural roads and 30 – 50km in cities.  We were told that there are a number of speed cameras and fines are expensive.  
• There is also zero alcohol permitted when driving in Iceland.
• In terms of petrol, keep in mind that when choosing to ‘fill’ your tank with petrol / diesel, the funds are taken in advance with a built in contingency that your car may have a very large capacity.  Any excess you pay will ultimately be refunded, however if you wish to monitor your cash flow, you may wish to fill up in increments.

Language

We found that everyone in Reykjavik spoke very good English, however don’t expect to find both languages on food packaging etc. 

Electricity

European plugs are used in Iceland.

Water

Icelandic water generally comes from a glacier and is very pure and in plentiful supply.

Currency

ISK.

Clothing

A good investment is gloves and a beanie, even if you’re travelling early in the cooler months. We were there in early October and warm clothing was an essential.

Parking

On the main street Laugavegur, free parking might be hard to find. The main church of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja, has free parking but the spots are taken quickly. Hallgrimskirkja is around 5-minute walk away from the centre.  The charged parking zones are divided into zones P1 (320 ISK per hour), P2 (170 ISK per hour), P3 (170 ISK for first two hours and 50 ISK per hour thereafter). Ie, the closer you are to Laugavegur, the more expensive it is per hour. Charging hours are Mon – Fri 09:00-18:00 and Sat 10:00-16:00.  You have to put in the license plate number of your car and there is no need to print out the ticket and display. The city is relatively small, so even if you park in zone P3 you are still in 2 – 3 minute walking distance from the centre. There is also a parking app called leggja which is an easy way to pay for parking.

Safety

Iceland, particularly in the winter, can be hazardous on the roads and it is important to remember that the island is largely uninhabited, with most people (over 90%) of the small population (of under 350,000) living in the cities, primarily Reykjavik. I can’t recall another destination where the landing spiel included so many references to the emergency number, being the international emergency number, 112.   It is therefore important to be properly prepared for conditions, be mindful that it can be some distances between towns and services, including fuel; take note of the emergency number and ensure sufficient charge on phones, in case of events such as breakdowns etc. 

We hope this helps you plan your Icelandic adventure. Find more of our travel reviews here!

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In November I had the pleasure of visiting the beautiful city of Amsterdam and discovering it’s many foodie pleasures. Even though I am Dutch, Amsterdam is not a place that I have regularly visited,  and since becoming vegan I have not yet had the chance to experience Dutch vegan food. I was so excited about this as it is the food of my childhood.

I went to the city for a weekend with two of my best friends and I can confidently express that it did not disappoint. I thought I’d share what we got up to right here on the Healthy Luxe blog.

The Meatless District:

Vegan or not, this place is a must! Both of my friends eat anything and everything and they could not believe that what they were eating wasn’t meat! It was truly incredible. On top of the great food, the staff were so kind and it had a lovely elegant atmosphere – something that is often lost in vegan restaurants. I went for the mushroom parpadelle and the girl’s went for the “sausage” and mash. The traditional “rookworst” in the sausage and mash blew my mind! It tasted exactly like the ones that my mum used to cook for me as a child. It was amazing to witness the evolution of plant-based that is happening at this very moment. The Meatless District are truly doing amazing things with food.

Rainbowls:

This place makes the prettiest acai and smoothie bowls you ever did see! Unfortunately we didn’t have the pleasure of trying them as we simply stopped off for coffee and cake (because why not). Everything (including the cakes) is vegan, and super delicious. The only downside to the cafe is that it is pretty small so there is hardly any seating. Having said that, the staff were very hospitable and helpful, even giving us two slices of cake instead of one because “just one was not enough” – I’m not complaining! This cafe also tries to remain waste-free, serving all their beverages and bowls in glass or recycled coconut shells. You can even purchase a coconut bowl to take home – which I did, and I will be trying to recreate some of the amazing smoothie bowls from here.

Juice Brothers: 

Every morning I enjoyed a PB acai bowl from this lovely plant-based, organic cafe. In the early, crisp mornings I would jump out of bed and do the breakfast round. I went to get my friends a pain au chocolate from the local bakery, and then hop across the road for my acai. We then enjoyed our takeaway breakfasts around the table in our beautiful Air BnB, overlooking the canals, listening to some good tunes. They were the most perfect and blissful mornings, and the fact that there were such easy and versatile food options around the area made it even more enjoyable. Juice Brothers offers acai bowls, smoothies, healthy snacks, and even “Van Leeuwen” vegan ice-cream, which unfortunately I didn’t get to try because of the arctic temperatures, but I’m sure I’ll be back.

The Cold Pressed Juicery:

Similarly to Juice Brother’s, The Cold Pressed Juicery offers delicious plant-based acai bowls, smoothies, healthy snacks and raw treats. We stopped off for coffee and smoothies at this spot after a long day of walking – just the fuel we needed.

JACKS:

We stumbled across this sandwich cafe after hunting for a lunch spot for a while. Can confirm it did not disappoint. My friend described it as “one of the best sandwiches she’d ever had”. The Dutch are renowned for their delicious bread, so I was *obviously* not surprised! Only joking, but nonetheless they were delicious. They offered a range of options for both vegans and non-vegans along with smoothies and coffee.

The Avocado Show:

Warning: be prepared to wait. We went to this place about 3 times before being lucky enough to only have to wait 30 minutes to get in! I would suggest going before peak time (12pm) to avoid the crazy lines. I would say, however, that waiting longer than that is not worth it. The place was nice and it had good food but it wasn’t revolutionary. It’s worth going as it’s quite famous, but not worth a 2 hour wait.

Vegan Junk Food Bar:

Now, I would wait 2 hours to have one of these burgers again! Absolutely delicious and a great way to start a weekend of good food. When we arrived on Friday for the long weekend, we choose to visit the Vegan Junk Food Bar and it was just delicious (and a little bit ‘naughty’). My two best friends, again, said that it was hard to believe that it was vegan. We all had burgers, sweet potato fries and “bitterballen” which are a dutch tradition. Traditionally, these deep fried balls are stuffed with meat, so I didn’t think that I’d be able to enjoy this childhood favourite again. However, this place changed my mind. Tip- get the garlic dip!

I hope to return to this beautiful, vibrant city soon and enjoy more of its delicious food and be immersed in the culture. I hope that these vegan cafes/restaurants will give you a taste of the traditional dutch food scene, even if you follow a plant-based diet!

Instagram: @beinghealthful

Website: beinghealthfulkt.wordpress.com 

The post Amsterdam City Vegan Food Guide appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

South coast 

After spending one night in Colombo we got a driver to take us to Unawatuna – a beach town on the south coast of Sri Lanka. 

Unawatuna was one of my highlights of the trip. It had such a great atmosphere with an authentic (not overly touristic) feel and some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever visited. There’s no shortage of photo opportunities from the coconut tree swing on Dalawella beach, crystal clear waters and spectacular sunsets. 

We only spent 1 night here (would definitely stay longer if I have the opportunity to go back) but here are my top recommendations!

TO DO:

Galle Fort 

We spent the day at Galle Fort, otherwise known as The Dutch Fort, exploring the streets of the old town and of course, visiting the iconic light house, clock tower and the Fort’s wall. The old town is very picturesque and has quite a European feel. It is bustling with shopping streets, cafes, rooftop restaurants and ice creameries (a must if you’re visiting in summer). You could easily spend a full day here or even spend the night in the town to really experience all that it has to offer.

Dalawella Beach 

Dalawella beach is a must – it was hands down my favourite beach in Sri Lanka. Aside from the insta-worthy coconut tree swing, it has the most stunning crystal clear warm water, white sand and sense of tranquillity. 

TO STAY/EAT:

Wajiya Beach Hotel

Wajiya beach is connected to Dalawella beach (not entirely sure what separates them). We spent the afternoon at Wajiya Beach Hotel sipping frozen passionfruit margaritas and watching the sunset. Only downside is that these crazy good margaritas will make any future cocktails seem a little sub par. They are only $3.50 and made using all fresh, local ingredients. We also indulged in one (or two) wood fired pizzas with spinach, feta, olives and mushrooms. Can’t fault it!

The Kip

The Kip is a boutique hotel/cafe located in Ahangama (not far from Unawatuna). If we’d found out about this little gem sooner we definitely would’ve planned to stay for a night or two, but even going for lunch was an incredible experience. The cafe is situated in a lush garden oasis with outdoor hammocks and bean bags. The menu is tapas style (and vegan/vegetarian friendly) so you simply tick what you would like to have and it is served to you on a platter.

Mirissa

Our next stop was Mirissa Beach, also on the south coast of Sri Lanka. The beach has a vibrant atmosphere with back to back restaurants right on the sand.

TO DO:

Coconut Hill

Coconut Hill is a prime sunset spot. It is absolutely stunning watching the sun set through the coconut trees. 

Turtle Bay

Turtle Bay is just around the corner from coconut hill and is the perfect spot if you’re hoping to see some turtles. We rented snorkels from the beach side kiosk (it’s about $1 for an hour) and hit the beach.

EAT:

Zephyr Restaurant

Zephyr is one of the beach front restaurants at Mirissa. The beach front places do have a touristic feel but there is something pretty special about sitting at a table literally on the sand, listening to the waves crash and being amongst the ocean breeze. The food was good but it’s the atmosphere that makes it.

Shady Lane

Smoothie bowls are fairly hard to come by in Sri Lanka (especially once you venture further inland)  which made discovering Shady Lane all the more exciting. If you’ve been to Bali, this place very much reminded me of the great health food cafes you find there. 

No 1 Dewmini Rotti Shop

Aside from being fresh, delicious and crazy cheap, what I loved most about this cafe was the story. On the menu cover they talk about their struggles of trying to run their family business in Sri Lanka and the many hardships they faced, being repeatedly shut down by various landlords. One day a German couple suggested that they operate the rotti shop from their home in Mirissa and the couple helped them get set up. The business is now thriving.

Tangalle

Our next stop along the coast was Tangalle, a quiet beach town. There wasn’t much to do in Tangalle itself but it’s nice if you’re looking for somewhere to relax. We did a homestay which was a great way to immerse ourselves in the culture, enjoying traditional meals and the company of a kind Sri Lankan family. All the locals we encountered were so welcoming and generous, from assisting us with directions to offering us their seat on local buses and trains.

Hiriketiya beach

My favourite beach near Tangalle was Hiriketiya. It is a beautiful horseshoe cove that is gaining popularity for its surf (ideal conditions for beginners) and crystal clear waters. There are also a few bars nearby and quite a young crowd. 

TO EAT/STAY:

Dots Bay House

Dots is a cafe/bar/hotel just opposite Hiriketiya beach. It’s a great spot to spend the afternoon. We ordered mango smoothies and played cards, soaking in the atmosphere (the cocktails looked great too). If I go back I would definitely stay here.

Ella

Our next stop was the beautiful town, Ella. Ella is further inland – the cheapest way to get there is by bus. We splashed out on getting a driver so that we could stop off at a few places along the way. It was such a scenic drive from the lush greenery and waterfalls to the wildlife –  we needed to stop en-route for a herd of buffalo and later came across a tribe of monkeys. We also stopped off at a fruit shop (rather a shack on the side of the road) where a local man cut open fresh coconuts for us to rehydrate.  

TO EAT/STAY:

Cafe Chill

Our favourite cafe/restaurant in Ella was no doubt, Chill. Evidenced by the fact we went 5 times in the 3 days we were in Ella. It has such a great *chilled* atmosphere with bean bag chairs, friendly staff and great food. The 10 curry and rice dish wrapped in a banana leaf is a must, as are the passionfruit mojitos.

Down Town Rotti Hut

Another great spot to get your rotti fix. We always sat in the upstairs area where you can look out over the buzzing main street of Ella town. Would highly recommend the kottu salad.

Seven Heaven

We stayed at Seven Heaven hotel which has a breathtaking view of little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock. They also had a lovely terrace where you eat breakfast and it is a short 10 minute walk from the main town.

98 acres 

We sadly missed out on going here but I’ve heard so many amazing things. Whether you’re looking to splash out on luxe accomodation or just treat yourself to breakfast and a view, 98 acres is sure to impress. 

TO DO:

Sunrise at Little Adam’s Peak

We set off for sunrise at Little Adam’s Peak around 5am. A tuk tuk driver dropped us nearby and then it was about a 15 minute hike to the top of the mountain peak. Unfortunately there was so much mist/cloud cover that we didn’t actually see sunrise (it just went from dark to light grey…). We are still glad we made the effort but hopefully you have better sunrise luck!

Halpé tea plantation

We couldn’t miss this famous tea plantation which was a short bus ride from the town, and then about a 15 minute walk up to the plantation. We sat in on a discussion where we learnt about the process (learnt that black, white and green tea are all from the same tree, the difference occurs in the processing), before going on a tour. I definitely have more of an appreciation for how much work has gone into the production of tea now. The tour concluded with a tea tasting.

Spice gardens

The spice gardens are located right in the heart of Ella town, in a local’s front yard. You can walk through the gardens which have the most impressive variety of herbs and spices (entry is 100 rupiah so about 75c per person), or better yet you can book in for a cooking class in the family’s home. The cost is about $20 per person and worth every cent. The chef is so entertaining and really gets everyone involved – each class has a maximum of 8 people so it’s very hands on. We made 6 dishes from dahl and yellow curry to papadums and coconut sambol. We then sat down together to enjoy the tasty meals we had prepared.

Nine arch bridge

I don’t think anyone would go to Ella without paying a visit to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. As it is such a hotspot for tourists it can get very crowded, so it’s probably best to go earlier in the day. We walked all the way back to the town along the railway tracks, jumping to the side when a train came by (sounds scarier than it is – the trains run at snail pace along here).

Kandy

After a few days in Ella we jumped on board the famous train from Ella-Kandy. The train ride is about 7 hours so it is worth booking ahead to guarantee a seat. The views are spectacular and there is plenty of entertainment – there was a group of school kids in the carriage in front of us singing and cheering every time we went through a tunnel, and plenty of locals walking aboard the train selling street food. 

TO EAT/STAY:

Aarunya resort

We treated ourselves to the ultimate luxury escape in Kandy, staying at the boutique Aarunya Resort. Read about our experience here. 

DO:

The highlight of Kandy was without doubt, staying at Aarunya – it is a destination in itself. The town of Kandy we found a little disappointing but it is a great place to base yourself for day trips. In saying that, there are a few things worth seeing…

Temple of the tooth

Temple of the tooth is a sacred Buddhist temple. It is a popular tourist destination so it is quite expensive, but it is a place of great historical, cultural and spiritual significance. The detail in design/architecture is incredible.   

Helgas Folly Hotel 

This has to be the most unique, quirky (borderline scary) hotel of all time. It has an eclectic mix of antiques/artwork, from skeletons and upsidedown Christmas trees to brightly coloured lounge chairs and animal statues. I personally wouldn’t want to stay but it is worth popping in for a tea and a tour!

Sigiriya

Sigiriya is an ancient rock formation in the town of Dambulla (it is listed as one of the ancient wonders of the world). The most famous rock is Sigiriya (otherwise known as Lion Rock) which you can hike to the top of, however a nearby rock formation, Pidurangala is gaining popularity amongst tourists as it is much less expensive to climb. From this rock you also have a fantastic view of Sigiriya. We climbed Pidurangala for sunrise, yet sadly we were faced with more mist and just watched it turn from dark to light. 

There isn’t too much else to do in this area so I would recommend a day trip or just one night.

Colombo

We ended our tour of Sri Lanka by spending a few nights in Colombo. We had heard mixed reviews so decided to check out the city for ourselves.

While there isn’t too much to do, it is a fantastic foodie spot. We had some world class meals here and it was also ideal for some last minute shopping.

DO:

Dutch hospital shopping precinct 

The Dutch Hospital is the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area. It is filled with great shops from tea and spices to clothing and jewellery. There are lots of cafes, restaurants and rooftop bars in the Colombo Fort region too. 

Pettah markets 

Pettah market can be a little overwhelming; there are back to back stalls with locals trying to sell their products. If you’re prepared to fight the crowds/bargain you can find some great deals! It is definitely worth experiencing. 

EAT/STAY:

Plus Nine Four

After a lot of curry (and I mean a lot), I was pretty excited to find some Sydney style cafes. I couldn’t go past the smashed avo (it was served with a mango salsa – weird but it definitely works!). They also had really good almond milk coffee and the cacao, peanut butter smoothie was to die for. A lot of the cafes we found were also hotels/hostels, and I imagine this one to be very nice.

Black Cat

Black cat also had a very Sydney-like feel with a strong focus on local and organic produce. You could very much taste the quality of the ingredients. Again, it was also a hotel – we tried to book but they were fully booked for weeks! Good sign.

Gallery Cafe

Gallery cafe is a world-class Italian restaurant. It has a European atmosphere, attentive staff and seriously delicious food. I went for the spinach and ricotta gnocchi which has inspired me to try and recreate it, followed by a chocolate and espresso fondant. Oh and can’t forget the frozen margaritas. It was comparable to Sydney prices but well worth it.

Ministry of crab

Ministry of crab was recommended to us several times so we decided to treat ourselves and go for our last night. It is very busy so make sure you book. They are renowned for their chilli and garlic crab which is delicious served with their famous kade bread. It is located right in the centre of the Dutch Hospital Building and has a great ambience. Note – it is very expensive. 

Other tips:

• Ask to use the meter when jumping in a tuk tuk – this is the best way to guarantee you’re not being ripped off. Wish we’d realised this before our second last day!
• Book the train from Ella-Kandy ahead to guarantee a seat
• Book accomodation in Colombo ahead of time (it was the only place we had difficulty finding last minute availability) 

The post Guide to Sri Lanka appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

Aarunya is located just a quick half hour tuk tuk ride from the station – it’s hard to believe this luxurious, peaceful resort could be so close to the hustle and bustle of Kandy town. Situated atop a mountain peak you truly feel a million miles away. Simply arriving at the resort gates and seeing the lush greenery was a jaw dropping moment. From there, a friendly staff member picked us up in a golf cart to take us to the foyer where we were greeted with freshly squeezed passionfruit juice and cold face towels to refresh after the journey.

We were taken to our villa (Villa Cinnamon) which was just breathtaking. It was so spacious, beautifully styled and best of all, we had our own jacuzzi overlooking coconut trees. It also had possibly the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept on, where they had written “Welcome to Aarunya” in flower petals upon our arrival.

We spent the first afternoon settling in, drinking tea on the terrace in our Aarunya uniform *bath robes*. Later on we ventured to the main dining area where we played a few games of pool whilst sipping passionfruit mojitos before dinner.

Our dinner was the most delectable Sri Lankan spread (possibly the best traditional food of our entire trip). In true Sri Lanka style there was a large selection of curries, a variety of roti bread and hoppers (egg and plain – if you’ve been to SL you’ll know what I’m talking about). We’re going to create a few recipes inspired by the trip which we’ll be sharing very soon!

The Aarunya grounds were so beautiful that we decided to treat ourselves and spend the entire next day relaxing at the resort. Their website refers to Aarunya as a destination, and after experiencing if for myself I can say that I whole heartedly agree. We had breakfast delivered to our room which consisted of dahl, vegetable and fish curry, as well as some roti, string hoppers and rice – it took me a little while to warm up to the idea of curry for breakfast but with curries this good I’d eat them any time of day. You can also opt for a Western breakfast which includes a yoghurt and cereal parfait, fruit platter and eggs (any style).

Our slow start was followed by a long session by the infinity pool which had spectacular views of Knuckles mountain. We caught up on reading, went for a dip and sipped on refreshing mango smoothies. Just before sunset we indulged in a hot stone massage at the Aarunya outdoor spa. The outdoor element really enhanced the experience with the fresh air and calming sounds of nature.

We contemplated hitting the Aarunya gym which had beautiful panoramic views but decided we were a bit too zen. Instead we did some yoga on our terrace and went for a walk around the grounds (the villas are scattered over 7 acres of tea, fruit and spice plantation). What I loved most about the grounds was the fruit & vegetable garden which had everything from medicinal spices to tropical fruits. Their aim is to have the majority of ingredients used in the restaurant sourced from the Aarunya garderns.

If you have a few more days to spend here, you can also chat to the staff about organising day trips. They provide tailor made experiences and excursions from waterfall hikes, temple visits and trips to Kandy village/markets, to full day excursions to Sigiriya, National Parks and Sunrise over the famous Adam’s Peak.

Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate by the pool and indulge at the day spa, or have an action packed few days seeing the sights of Kandy and its surrounds, there is no better place to base yourself. It is world class luxury with boutique and personalised service to ensure you have a holiday you will never forget.

I  will be sharing another Sri Lanka blog post soon with some suggestions for where to go, where to stay and of course – where to eat!

The post The Ultimate Luxury Escape: Aarunya Resort appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

We tried to keep the driving to around 4 hours per day to fully appreciate our chosen stops. We also deliberately chose winter for our trip to avoid crowds and overall, we were very fortunate with the weather.

Our top recommendations

Seaside town of Lorne

Setting off from Avalon, this charming town is an easy 1.5 hour drive. We enjoyed a delicious and healthy brunch at the picturesque HAH cafe on the beach. While soaking up the views, keep an eye out for any whales that may be about… We unfortunately didn’t spot any but we were told there was a sighting just the day before!

It would be easy to spend more time in this town. The next cafe on our list would be the quaint Swinging Bridge Cafe, which caught our eye upon our approach into Lorne. Its idyllic setting, together with very positive reviews we have read, is definitely somewhere we would like to try.

12 Apostles

No GOR trip is complete without spending time at the 12 Apostles. The site currently comprises 7 majestic rock stacks facing imposing cliffs on the shoreline known as Shipwreck Coast. An eighth rock formation collapsed in 2005 due to erosion.

We arrived approximately half an hour before sunset to soak in the spectacular views, returning the following morning to watch the sunrise. Our sunrise visit, while stunning, was slightly less enjoyable as we were thwarted by blizzard-like conditions (not ideal!).

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There are 4 designated viewing areas that allow plenty of space to see/photograph. It is also possible to view the Apostles from the beach by walking down the famous Gibson’s Steps.

Fun fact… Prior to being named the 12 Apostles, these rock formations were known as ‘The Sow and Piglets’. We are also unsure where the name ’12 Apostles’ came from as there were only ever 8! There is speculation that the biblical name reflects the awe inspired when in their presence.

The Grotto

Just off the GOR, 10 minutes drive from Port Campbell, is the prettiest ‘sinkhole’ we have ever seen… a stunning natural archway formation, framing the ocean and distant horizon. Definitely worth a visit.

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London Bridge

Very close to ‘The Grotto’ is the formation known as ‘London Bridge’. Now, it is sometimes referred to as the ‘London Arch’ as the component that made it a ‘bridge’ collapsed in 1990.

Triplet Falls, Great Otway National Park

These mesmerising waterfalls and the stunning rainforest walk to get there (an hour round trip) was another highlight. Whilst there are lots of steps, it is an otherwise easy walk, with the odd obstacle (fallen tree) to navigate.

This was the perfect opportunity to slow down and soak up the tranquility, without the distraction and noise of our busy lives (there is no internet reception so you’ll be sans wifi for a bit).

We were very lucky to have visited the falls after heavy rain, resulting in all three falls (hence the name ‘triplet’) flowing heavily. This also meant there were increased negative ions in the atmosphere.

Negative ions are essentially oxygen ions with an additional electron created by the water.  The concentration of these ions near waterfalls is in the tens of thousands per cubic centimetre (up to 100,000), compared to a few hundred in an office or polluted city.

This explains the sense of peacefulness and invigoration often experienced when in nature.

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Southern Ocean Villas, Port Campbell

We highly recommend this self-catering accommodation, ideally located just 5 minutes from The 12 Apostles.  The town of Port Campbell is tiny, however we discovered a charming store, Wine@Tillys, where we were treated to an impromptu wine tasting of local Port Campbell wines.

Naturally, we purchased our favourites, along with organic local produce (bread, cheese, etc.) which we took home to enjoy in our homely villa.

Where to eat in Port Campbell…

Finding good quality, healthy food is always a priority for us and we thoroughly recommend Forage on the Foreshore. We were welcomed by friendly staff and listened to the Beatles, played on an old fashioned turntable. This, coupled with the cafe’s rustic facade gave the sense of stepping back in time. The menu offers locally sourced, seasonal produce, and caters to different dietary requirements.

Chris’s, Beacon Hill, Skenes Creek

Perched in the treetops and overlooking the panorama of Apollo Bay, Chris’s Restaurant and Accommodation is an absolute gem.  The fine dining restaurant offers fresh and flavoursome dishes from a contemporary menu with a Southern European and Middle Eastern influence. The very comfortable accommodation has a ‘tree house’ feel, immersed in nature and the surrounding wildlife.

When we travel we try not to try to cram in too much… it’s always good to leave something for next time! Things on our list for when we return include whale watching (whale watching season is mid May – November), walking stretches of ‘The Great Ocean Walk’, visiting more waterfalls, venturing inland on the gourmet trail, as well as visiting food and wine producing towns such as Timboon.

We hope this help anyone planning a trip in the GOR, or inspires you to visit! It is a trip we will never forget and can’t recommend highly enough.

The post 3 days on the Great Ocean Road appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

We are lucky enough to have regular(ish) meetings in Melbourne so we can slowly but surely work our way through our cafe list. The difficulty is deciding where to prioritise… there are simply not enough meals in the day if you ask us.

There are still so many places we are yet to try, and we are always on the hunt for the newest healthy eatery on the block. If anyone has any suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below!

For now, we’ve compiled our top 5 healthy cafes in Melbourne, as well as a short list of ones we are just dying to try.

#01

Combi, Elwood

Located slightly outside of the centre of Melbourne, it’s not one you would easily stumble across (although it is very well known amongst the Melbourne cafe-goers!)

It’s Byron meets Melbourne with its bohemian, colourful interior and selection of smoothie bowls, bunless veggie burgers, zucchini noodles and raw treats.

Our pick? The peanut butter acai bowl (I’m addicted!). All their smoothies/smoothie bowls are packed with superfoods which we love. We’re talking maca powder (hormone-balancing), raw protein powder (plant-based), spirulina (immunity boosting), lucuma (source of iron, zinc and calcium, as well as being a natural sweetener), probiotics (promoting gut health), and the list goes on and on and on. Their smashed avo is also delicious, as is their signature Combi vegan toasted sandwich.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure you try their signature raw caramel slice…. it is to die for. All their desserts are made on site, and are refined sugar free, dairy free, gluten free, raw and 100% organic, sweetened only with maple syrup and coconut nectar. Just the way we like them!

#02

Seedling Cafe, CBD

The perfect spot to get your health fix, located in the heart of the CBD (they have two locations – one on Flinders Lane, the other on Little Collins Street). Seeding cafe is 100% gluten free and paleo-inspired, focusing on nutrient-dense, clean, ethically sourced (and delicious) food.

If you’re after something simple and satisfying, try their seeded buckwheat gluten free toast with homemade almond and coconut spread. They also have a great selection of salad bowls, smoothies, juices and raw desserts. The “beet it” juice with beetroot, mixed berries, coconut water, ginger and mint is the ultimate refresher.

They also do great coffee… really ticking all boxes here!

#03

Bentwood, Fitzroy

This is an absolute must for our fellow health foodies. The acai is as delicious as it is pretty (and that’s really saying something in this case). It’s one of the few places that gets the granola to acai ratio right if you ask me, by which I mean there is lotsss of granola… It’s also served with peanut butter which is a must in my eyes.

If you’re after something savoury, the smashed avo is also on point. It is served on dark rye bread with fresh chilli, dukkah, feta and pomegranates. Another menu item I am dying to try is the brunch bowl… It is packed with goodness! Kale, quinoa, cashew-basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, haloumi, a poached egg, avo, hemp seeds, yoghurt and pita chips… Who else is hungry after reading that?

#04

Cocomamas, Elsternwick

Smoothie bowl heaven. Cocomamas is located about 30 minutes from the CBD, but well worth a visit. It is a takeaway style cafe however they do have a few bar stools if you want to eat in.

We tried their deluxe “Snickers Delight Bowl” which has frozen banana, peanut butter, cacao, dates and coconut, topped with buckwheat and almonds, cacao nibs, clean chocolate sauce, peanut caramel and cashew vanilla ice-cream.  Sounds to die for, and it is! Next on my hit list – the Peanut Butter and Jelly Bowl.

For those who prefer a savoury breakfast, they also have avocado on gluten free toast served with housemate almond “feta”, beetroot, kraut and hemp seeds.

#05

Serotonin Dealer, Burnley

Serotonin Dealer is a one stop shop for all things health and wellbeing. Their aim is to provide a sanctuary to escape from our fast-paced lives, integrating both a nourishing cafe and a holistic exercise centre.

Their extensive plant-based menu leaves you feeling spoilt for choice (and quite frankly a little stressed about what to order!). By now, you’ll be shocked to know we opted for the smashed avocado and the acai bowl. This acai is a little different (and we mean that in the best kind of way). It is a dairy-free, sugar-free acai ice cream served with the signature Serotonin granola, fresh berries, pistachio list, house-made peanut butter (incred), banana and best of all, topped with a banana & coconut “magnum” ice-cream. Dreams really do come true!

The smashed avo (or smiling avocado as it is called at Serotonin) is served on toasted sprouted seed loaf and has a delicious blend of avocado, smashed pea and mint, topped with cherry tomatoes, feta and fresh chilli. It’s no ordinary avo toast!

I also tried their cacao coconut latte which is house-made 70% dark hot chocolate with organic raw cacao and grated cacao butter, spun on coconut milk. I added a shot of espresso which I would highly recommend for any fellow mocha lovers.

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One I haven’t included on the top 5 list but is well worth a mention, is Brother Baba Budan in the heart of the CBD. They only do coffee and croissants but boy they do it well. It’s decor is very ‘Melbourne’, with chairs tied to the ceiling and exposed brick walls. Trendy is an understatement. Their coffee is amongst the best I’ve ever tasted and the constant flood of people (there is often a queue) suggests I am not alone! They make their own dairy-free milk which is an almond, macadamia and date blend. I’m obsessed!

Dying to try…

Matcha Mylk Bar, St Kilda

Our friends over at Matcha Maiden are not only the founders of the incredible matcha green-tea brand, but they have also opened their very own cafe in the heart of Melbourne. Not surprisingly, they have a very matcha-inspired menu featuring green matcha porridge, matcha-made-in-heaven pancakes and a matcha burger. For those not so matcha inclined, don’t fret, they have everything from shakshuka and your classic #vegan big breakfast to waffles and healthy breakfast bowls. It’s top of the list for next time!

Tinker Northcote, Northcote

With the same owners as Bentwood in Fitzroy, I feel confident that this one will not disappoint. Other establishments with the same ownership include Clubhouse and Mob… so I think we need to try them all!

We hope this list helps you make an informed decision on where to eat for your next Melbourne trip… Let us know your thoughts!

Visiting Sydney soon?

You may want to check out our post on our favourite healthy cafes in Sydney!

The post Top 5 healthy cafes in Melbourne appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

If you’re travelling to Bali you’ll no doubt have a lengthy list of places to visit. It can be a little overwhelming so I’ll keep this list to the absolute musts. I’ve included everything from where to stay, where to eat and places to visit.

Seminyak

Cafes

Kynd Community

Between the pitaya bowls with BALI BABY spelt out in mango letters, the stunning pink wall and the most decadent smoothie jars decorated with vegan treats, it is no surprise this is one of the most insta-famous cafes in Bali. Aside from getting a good gram, they dish up some of the best clean-eating food in town.

Revolver Espresso

Hands down the best place to go for coffee in Bali (potentially the world – no exaggeration here). They use their own signature Revolver Coffee beans and even make their own almond-date milk. Absolute game changer for any fellow almond milk coffee drinkers.

We started most (if not all) of our days in Seminyak here, sipping almond milk cappuccinos in their famous ‘pink room’ whilst stalking cafes on insta to decide where to go for breakfast.

Ritual Boutique

Acute, quirky coffee shop, as well as a beautiful clothing and homewares store. We stumbled upon countless places in Bali that have combined cafes with little boutiques which I absolutely love (although with a store this good it can quickly turn into a very expensive coffee!)

Sarong

This restaurant has a strong Indian influence and was among the best Indian food I’ve ever tasted. To start, we had the tuna sashimi betel leaves with lemongrass (absolute flavour explosion), followed by a roast pumpkin cauliflower dish and an amazing vegetarian ‘saag’ curry with crumbled burrata, spinach, crushed cashew nuts and micro herbs. And of course a side of rice and garlic-cheese naan. Tip – arrive hungry!

Mama San

World class South East Asian Food in a stylish setting. It is no wonder this restaurant has the reputation it does! For me the highlight dishes were the entrees. I highly recommend the steamed snapper dumplings with chill oil, the Thai style curry puffs with sweet potato, pumpkin, coriander and sweet chilli sauce, and the spicy tuna sashimi hand roll. The roti bread is also a must.

Bars

Mrs Sippy

A great place to kick back, relax and soak up the summer vibes with a passionfruit margarita in hand. There is an entrance fee of $15 which includes a drink and a beach chair which you can enjoy for as long as you like. Make sure you get a cocktail from the famous Mrs Sippy pool bar, too. It’s the largest salt water pool on the island might I add.

Motel Mexicola

If you’re looking to experience the famous Bali night life, Motel Mexico is your place. It is quite relaxed in the day but by about 10pm it has well and truly turned into a club. The music is great, the cocktails are delicious and if you like Mexican, you will be in awe of the food.

Where to stay

Villa Phinisi

Villa Phinisi is the ultimate in relaxed luxury, located in the heart of Seminyak. Our villa had beautiful Moroccan inspired furnishings, a spacious living area and two stunning bedrooms overlooking the incredible “fish tank”-like pool. The town centre is a short 10 minute walk.

Villa Mimi

We stayed at Villa Mimi on our first Bali trip and absolutely adored it. It has a stunning 15 metre swimming pool with a beautiful Balinese bale at one end. The furnishings are quite modern which perfectly accompanies its tropical, beach-chic style. As well, Villa Mimi has overnight security staff so you feel very safe.

Where to visit

Seminyak Flea Markets

Definitely worth a visit! You can find great jewellery, homewares and clothing. Note – be prepared to bargain with the store holders to strike a good deal!

Bodyworks

If you’re after a quality massage, mani-pedi or beauty treatment, Bodyworks is where it’s at. It can be very busy so make sure you make an appointment in advance.

Indomaret

Not a ‘must’ per say but if you get a chance, pop into an Indomaret supermarket (they’re everywhere) to stock up on some Balinese goodies. We are obsessed with the ‘Chok Chok’ Organic Balinese chocolate range. My pick is the 82% dark with almonds, coconut vanilla and almond butter. You can find them at lots of healthy cafes and day spas but they’re half the price at Indomaret.

Canggu

Cafes

Peloton Supershop

Peloton is hands down the best vegan cafe I’ve ever been to. My order is the “Powerhouse Bowl” with pumpkin, tempeh, roasted cashews, hummus, wild rice and all kinds of veg. We swap the balsamic dressing for their famous citrus sauce and of course, add a side of avo.

The Shady Shack

This is perhaps my new favourite cafe in Bali. Here you’ll enjoy seriously amazing vegetarian food in a lush garden oasis. We had quite the spread… Asian tempeh salad bowl, go-green bowl with tamari roasted almonds and a creamy tahini sauce, a to-die-for vegan lasagne and sides of sweet potato, smashed avo and roasted garlic potatoes with aioli. Can’t fault anything about this place!

If you’re feeling like something sweet try their ‘cacao dream’ smoothie bowl. Tastes like chocolate ice cream, only healthy.

Crate Cafe

Crate Cafe is located in a large, trendy warehouse. It’s stylish interiors include polaroid feature walls, rustic tables, crate chairs (hence the name), a communal white board style menu and its very own crate clothing store. If you’re a smoothie bowl (/pb) fan, the ‘why so cereal’ bowl with peanut butter, cacao and frozen bananas is a must. Their smashed avocado on thickly sliced rye bread is also amazing.

Restaurants

Fishbone local

This is the new kid on the block and has been featured in Vogue, Grazia, Good Food, Bali Bible… you name it. After seeing so many incredible write ups, Fishbone local was bumped to the top of our must-try list. The focus is on fresh, sustainably caught seafood, as well as having good vibes and great cocktails.

We sat outside which has a homely garden feel with fairy lights and giant cushions as chairs. Everything we tried was amazing but my faves were the tuna tostadas, line caught squid and the flatbread with garlic, herbs and ricotta.

One Eyed Jack

One Eyed Jack is a modern Japanese restaurant, very popular amongst both locals and tourists. I’m sure all the food is amazing, but we actually went specifically for dessert… I’m not usually a big dessert person (unless it’s the healthy kind) but my weakness is dark chocolate fondant. We were in awe! Fondants take a little longer to prepare because they are made fresh to order but it is well worth the wait.

Bars

The Lawn

Situated right on Canggu Beach, The Lawn would have to be one of my all time favourite Bali destinations. It is a great place to spend the afternoon… you can lounge on cushion chairs, sip on cocktails, swim in the pool and just soak up the atmosphere. It is also a prime spot for sunset drinks, whether you’re on the lawn or their newly refurbished rooftop bar.

As well as having great drinks (Pomelo Margaritas), they have the best selection of small plates to nibble on. The tempeh rice paper rolls with peanut dipping sauce and spicy fish tacos are both incred.

They often have parties on Friday nights so keep an eye out for what’s on! If you’re in the mood for a dance you can kick on to Old Man’s, just down the road form The Lawn.

La Brisa

This is a pool bar unlike any other. It’s quirky decor, fun music and outlook onto Echo Beach makes it one of the most popular cocktail bars in Bali. Another ideal location for sunset drinks!

Where to stay

Jungle Room

This was our second time staying at Jungle Room and it was such a treat. I love the antique wooden villas, the stunning pool and of course, the Jungle Room Juice and Smoothie Bar with a delicious superfood menu. They’re renowned for their chia (when you taste it you’ll know why). It’s the perfect poolside snack.

Villa Hart

Villa Hart is located in the heart of Canggu, only minutes from some of the best cafes, restaurants, markets, and day spas in Bali. The flawlessly styled villa has a breathtaking outlook onto rice fields. Its prime location paired with its interiors and stunning view crowned it my favourite villa of the trip. Big call, I know.

To visit

Spring spa

If you’re in the mood to be pampered, make sure you factor in some time to visit Spring Spa. They have a few locations, but the Canggu Spa was our pick.

We were treated to a hair revival treatment and blow dry which included a shoulder, neck and foot massage. The hair treatment left our hair feeling silky smooth!

A few tips for transport in Bali…

• Getting taxis in Bali is very cheap – a ride across town is about $4 (although the price will depend on your negotiating skills!). Make sure you set a price before getting in or better yet request for the meter to be used.
• If you feel comfortable I would suggest renting a motor bike. They can be dangerous so be wary but they are by far the most common / most convenient way of getting around, especially at night when it can be difficult to find a taxi.

I hope these suggestions will be useful in planning the ultimate Bali escape!

The post The Ultimate Bali Guide appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

We hope this list of the best London cafes will be helpful for anyone visiting London, or for any London locals.

Redemption, Notting Hill

Redemption was one I stumbled across accidentally very early on and I am so glad I did. Every menu item I tried was delicious so you really can’t go wrong! In saying that, I would highly recommend that whatever you get, order a side of the sweet potato and coconut yoghurt – it might sound strange but trust me, it works! They also have a great range of delicious alcohol-free ‘cocktails’ AND a great brunch menu. Hands down one of the best London cafes.

Wild Foods

It was so great (and a little dangerous!) having Wild Foods located so close to my uni. It has a huge selection of raw and vegan food, as well as some cooked meal options. The famous Ayurvedic Salad has so much goodness in it and is so delicious (pictured below). They also have a great selection of gluten, dairy and refined sugar free desserts – I love their raw chocolate ganache tart and banoffee pie. They also offer an amazing thick chai hot chocolate in the cooler months – the ultimate winter warmer.

26 grains, Covent Garden

This is an absolute must for any porridge lovers. They have just about every porridge flavour you could imagine, including a few savoury options. I love their Blueberry Bay Cacao porridge (which is served with a big dollop of almond butter!) and their butternut squash and sticky black rice bowl… not exactly porridge but it is great for lunch – so nourishing. Their menu changes often so these particular items may not always be available but it is always great!

Mildreds, Soho

There is always a wait to get into Mildred’s but for good reason! It is a 100% vegetarian restaurant in the heart of Soho. It’s one of those menus that is just impossible to choose from because you just want to eat everything! I tried their stir fried vegetables with brown rice and tofu (and a bite of my friend’s sweet potato curry) and they were both absolutely amazing. I think you can’t go wrong here! I would recommend arriving as soon as they open because they do not take bookings.

Juicebaby, Chelsea

Juice baby has the most delicious selection of fresh juices and superfood smoothies I have ever come across. My ultimate favourite is the ‘nut butter fudge’ smoothie made using their homemade almond butter… It is so thick so keeps you feeling full! They also have a great Acai bowl and delicious takeaway salads – my favourite is the ‘holy kale’. All gluten free, dairy free and refined sugar free (including sweet treats!)

Good life eatery

Another very popular one – it is usually pretty packed. I am obsessed with their ‘goodness bowl’ – it is great when you’re feeling indecisive because it has just about everything in it! Most of their menu items are vegetarian and they have loads of gluten free options.

Granger and co

Sitting in Grangers & Co makes me feel so at home (Fellow Australians would know it as ‘Bills’). Bills is one of my favourites at home so I had many farewell dinners there before leaving to go on Exchange… so you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled across the same restaurant with the exact same menu on the other side of the globe! I love their dinner menu items, particularly the yellow fish and pumpkin curry. Make sure you allow some time to wait as it is very popular, particularly for weekend brunch – if you’re not on a strict gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free diet, you may have to treat yourself to their famous ricotta pancakes! One of the best London cafes AND Sydney cafes!

Wok it, Borough Market

Wok It is a hole-in-the-wall style cafe with a great selection of noodles (buckwheat and sweet potato noodles, rice noodles, zucchini/carrot noodles, etc.) which you can then customise with your choice of protein, vegetables and sauce. I love their rice noodles with salmon, broccoli, snap peas and miso-coriander sauce. It is delicious! The serving sizes are very generous so you may want to share with someone or just make sure you’re hungry before you go! It is located right in the heart of borough markets so you get to enjoy the buzzy atmosphere, right by the iconic thames.

202, Notting Hill

202 is one of my favourite local cafes. It isn’t a raw or vegan cafe, however it does have a number of healthy options. I love their ‘healthy breakfast’ of poached eggs, avocado, spinach and tomato on rye toast (pictured below). The delicious food, great atmosphere and idyllic location makes it a very popular brunch spot so make sure you allow some time to queue!

Other places I love

• Daylesford Organics – so many different locations throughout London with lots of local, fresh produce to purchase as well as a beautiful homewares store and cafe.
• Planet Organic – my favourite place to go grocery shopping. It has everything you could possibly need as well as having a great selection of ready meals and fresh juices. I love their turmeric dhal with brown rice.
• Wholefoods Market – for anyone else who actually really enjoys grocery shopping, you will absolutely love wholefoods. It is so big that you could almost get lost in it! The one on High St Kensington has a ‘fast-food’ level above the store with a great noodle bar and delicious brown rice and quinoa sushi.
• Borough Markets – the best place to buy your fresh fruit and veg. Apart from the food being amazing, I just love the atmosphere at Borough markets, it is always bustling. The stallholders are lovely too, and so passionate about the produce/products they are offering.
• Detox Kitchen, Regent Street – It is great when you are craving some really fresh and healthy salads for lunch. They have a delicious selection in their regent street store (the cacao bliss balls are also amazing!) and they also now stock some takeaway salads in Planet Organic!
• Duck & Dry – If you’re looking for somewhere to get your hair washed and styled, why not get it done on the famous Kings Road whist eating a delicious acas bowl or green smoothie… Such a treat!
• Content Beauty and Wellbeing – Content has an extensive range or organic skin care and hair care products. The staff are also very friendly and knowledgable so if you have any questions, this is the place to go!

The post The BEST London cafes appeared first on Healthy Luxe.

We found some serious winners (including one cafe that served what Sophie and I deemed to be ‘the best acai bowl we’ve ever eaten’) and others that we found to be a bit of a let down or that didn’t quite live up to the hype. Here are our recommendations for cafes and restaurants we love, must-see sights and our favourite beaches. Your Hawaii check list sorted!

Maui

Cafes and restaurants

Coconut Glen’s

Coconut Glen’s is a little vegan ice-cream shack off the Hana highway. Something I really love about Hawaii is the abundance of food trucks/huts that use fresh, local produce. We tried the plain coconut ice-cream (my personal favourite) and the choc-chilli for something a bit different. All flavours are made using coconut milk and on special request, it can be served in coconut bowls (see below picture). Coconut Glen’s makes for the perfect pit stop on the long and windy road to Hana – which is definitely worth renting a car for.

Maka by Mana

Maka by Mana is a raw food restaurant in Paia town centre, located next door to Mana Foods health food store. It was a struggle to find raw food in Maui so were very excited to come across this one. We tried their classic acai bowl which had a delicious thick, ice-cream like consistency topped with local fruit, coconut kefir yoghurt, bee pollen and house-made vanilla bean granola. The servings were very generous so kept us going all day which is great for when you’re out and about but if you’re after something a little lighter I would recommend sharing. Maka by Mana is also open for lunch and dinner with an extensive raw, vegan menu but we unfortunately didn’t get the chance to try. It is high on our list for next time!

Merriman’s

Another fantastic find that ticks all our boxes – delicious food, great ambiance (live music) and friendly staff. Perfect for an early dinner, watching the sunset over beautiful Kapalua beach. We ordered the ‘poke’ not knowing what it was, soon to realise it was on just about every menu in Hawaii. Poke is a traditional Hawaiian salad of raw Ahi tuna, usually served as an appetiser. This is my favourite way to eat fish and you can tell that the Merriman’s produce is premium quality – so much so that we had to order another. The quality is particularly important when consuming raw meat so be careful about where you try it.

Monkey pod

This one is an absolute must. Everything was so good we ended up ordering far too much including the ‘Poke’ Tacos with avocado in a crisp wonton shell (probably my favourite dish), wild mushroom and truffle oil pizza, pumpkin patch ravioli with goats cheese and pesto and oven charred brussels sprouts. They also have amazing cocktails made with coconut water and/or freshly squeezed juice. The cocktails were not too sweet and could be made without sugar on request which was a refreshing change to what we had experienced in other bars/restaurants in Hawaii. I would recommend making a reservation to avoid having to queue.

Wow Wow Lemonade

After a few sickly sweet acai bowls, we learnt that just because acai is a commonly listed menu item in Hawaii, it doesn’t mean they are all good. We learnt to ask whether they use sweetened or unsweetened acai. If in doubt, we found that cafes using the brand ‘Tambor’ – an acai puree made from premium, wild harvested, organic ingredients were the best and the healthiest. The acai bowl we had at WOW WOW lemonade was easily the best and most authentic we had in Maui (don’t be scared off by the name – we may never have tried it ourselves if it wasn’t for a personal recommendation). Sadly, we didn’t discover this place until our last day so were only able to try one. We both had the original which was topped with fresh fruit and granola (and almond butter for an additional $1). There are a few different locations for WOW WOW lemonade across Hawaii (including Oahu) so make sure to find your local.

Where to visit

Black Sand beach

Black Sand Beach is on the road to Hana and I can safely say it is unlike any beach I’ve seen before. The water is beautiful – definitely worth stopping by for a quick swim.

Kapalua Beach

This was my favourite beach we visited in Maui. It is a great place to go snorkelling with a captivating array of coral and tropical fish. One of my most memorable days in Maui was spent here, followed by dinner at Merriman’s.

Paia town centre

This cute strip of shops and cafes is a must-see in Maui. There are a number of great clothing shops (particularly swimwear), as well as an abundance of cafes and restaurants. One in particular that was recommended to us but we didn’t get the chance to try was called Flatbread. We drove by and it had a great vibe and was packed so it is likely very good.

Kauai

Cafes/restaurants

Kalalea Juice Hale

If you could only try one of our cafe recommendations, it should be this one. This is the one Sophie and I voted the best acai we’ve ever tasted. And that’s a big call. We had the ‘King Kong’ acai three days in a row because it was just too hard to go past. The King Kong is thick, creamy *unsweetened acai blended with banana, cacao and almond milk, topped with house made granola, macadamias, cacao nibs, goji berries, peanut butter (which also happens to be the best peanut butter we’ve ever tasted), cacao syrup and your choice of fresh fruit. The smoothies also look and sound to die-for. This is another one that you have to seek out as it is just a small hut off the Kuhio Highway so you’re unlikely to stumble upon it. The staff members are also so lovely and so passionate about what they do which makes all the difference.*If you also prefer unsweetened acai, make sure you specifically request  it as they may default to the sweetened variety.

Hippie cafe

Hippie cafe also have a delicious acai bowl with your choice of three toppings… (You’ve probably guessed by now we are serious acai addicts). I would definitely suggest adding peanut butter (this is a very popular addition in Hawaii and for good reason!) We found this cafe by luck as our favourite Kalalea Juice Hale is closed on Mondays and despite our high expectations, this place did not disappoint. We called it a very close second for the best acai we’ve ever had (it even managed to maintain its high ranking by the end of our trip). We did however go back for dinner one night and were a little underwhelmed but perhaps it was just a case of bad ordering. If you’re vegan and struggling with options, they do have an extensive vegan menu so it may be worth a visit. It is the same location but the dinner cafe is called ‘Caffe Coco’.

Restaurant Bar Acuda

This is a great restaurant for dinner, located in the heart of Hanalei. We sat outside overlooking the bustling town that we fell in love with over a very short space of time. It is definitely where I would choose to stay if/when I go back. It is a tapas style restaurant so the menu is designed to share – great for indecisive people like us! To start, they serve delicious, warm bread with olive oil from the Hanalei Bread Co. Their emphasis is on locally sourced produce and you can taste that all the food is fresh and healthy. Their cocktails also sound delicious.

Where to visit

Lumaha’i Beach

We stumbled across this beach accidentally when we saw a few cars parked on the side of the street. Naturally, we had to stop and investigate. We asked a few locals where everyone was headed and they pointed us in the direction of a short (probably 2-3 minute) hike down a muddy slope which led to a hidden, idyllic beach.

Tunnels Beach

This is just a little further along from Lumaha’i Beach so great if you feel like beach hopping. We spent a day driving from beach to beach and these two were our picks of the day.

Poipu Beach

Poipu is quite a busy, touristy destination but it is still very charming. On the beach, there was a small area enclosed for wild turtles and a seal so it is a great spot if you’re hoping to spot some sea animals. It is also near the Poipu shopping village where there are lots of great shops and restaurants. There is a health food shop/cafe there called Living Foods Market.

Kapalua Trail

Aspectacular 4-mile hike (or further if you go all the way to the waterfalls). It starts at Ke’e beach and runs along the Na Pali Coast of Kauai. Make sure you wear shoes with good grip as it does it is a very rocky and slippery trail, especially if it has been raining.

Ke’e Beach

Another highlight beach for us, partially because of its crystal clear water and partially because it is located at the end of the Kalalau Trail. It was the perfect way to refresh after the hike.

Hanalei Town Centre

This was my absolute favourite town we visited in Hawaii. There were  lots of great shops, cafes/restaurants and food trucks. We loved the local health food store, Harvest Market Hanalei which sells the best raw chocolates (Lulu’s) and ‘Aloha Fresh Macadamias’ which were insanely delicious. Our favourite flavour was the ‘Maple Coconut’ macadamias. Harvest Market also sell fresh, cold coconuts which became part of our morning Hawaiian ritual.

Oahu

Cafes/restaurants

Elephant Thai Truck

This is hands down the best thai food I have ever eaten, although in fairness I have never actually been to Thailand. I was so impressed by the way they were able to whip up such delicious, healthy and authentic Thai dishes out the back of a truck! We went for an early dinner and both had the vegan pad thai. They are served in very large boxes so it’s great for when you’re really hungry (or I guess you could always share).

The Beet Box cafe

Another great place for acai. We tried the ‘Mayan Bowl’ which is made with unsweetened acai, banana, mesquite, almond butter, fresh mint and almond milk (we also asked for almond butter on top which was a great addition). It is located very close to Heleiwa bowls and for me there was no comparison between the two. Beet box cafe is right next door to a local health food store if you need to replenish your travel snacks (as we did most days).

Banán

This was really something special. Their banana ‘soft serves’ taste way too good to be true. They are dairy free and refined sugar free (the only thing stopping them from being vegan is that they are often topped with honey however this can easily be omitted). We tried the ‘chocolate mac’ (as well as sampling the acai and plain banana). Every flavour we tried was delicious. We would recommend getting the bowl rather than the small cup as you get double the amount of toppings which takes it to a whole new level.  We ate breakfast at Banan two days in a row and couldn’t imagine ever getting sick of it! We did learn however that it does not travel so well… So our idea of buying it a day ahead didn’t exactly go to plan.

Tommy Bahamas

This roof top bar/restaurant is worth treating yourself too. We went on one of our final nights and absolutely loved it. The staff were very friendly, the food was delicious and they had great cocktails. Again, we had the Ahi poke which was one of the best we had the entire trip. We really struggled with the menu because everything sounded amazing and all the food that came out looked delicious.

Nobu

Another one that is a big treat, but if you love Japanese – you must try it. It is world class and I can honestly say that no other Japanese restaurant comes close to its standard. I would highly recommend trying the new style salmon sashimi and tuna tataki salad. If you’re in the mood for some dessert, their chocolate fondant with green tea ice-cream is insanely good.

To visit

Waimea Bay

This beach was also quite touristy but we found it far more beautiful and the water was clean and crystal clear. Jump rock is also on Waimea Bay which contributes to its popularity. This is definitely something worth doing if you’re up for a bit of an adrenaline rush.

Sharks Cove

Sharks Cove is near Waimea Bay (and right by Elephant Thai Truck). We didn’t actually swim here as we arrived quite late in the day but it was beautiful to see at dusk.

Lulumahu Falls

This was definitely our most adventurous (albeit slightly dangerous) hike but very rewarding as we approached the 50 ft waterfall. After taking two wrong turns, we finally found the right track towards Lullmahu falls, gripping onto trees, balancing on stepping stones and walking through water streams to find it. Sadly it was the end of our nikes so here’s a tip – wear shoes you don’t like or plastic grip shoes that can be washed!

Lanakai beach

This was my favourite beach we went to in Oahu, and is up there for my favourite beach in Hawaii. The water is so clear and the colour is stunning. It’s about an hour from Waikiki but definitely worth the drive. There is also a popular walk nearby (Lanakai Pillboxes Trail).

I hope you all enjoy these suggestions. If anyone has any more recommendations they would like to add I would love for you to leave a comment.

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This was very clear after a short stroll down Union street and Chestnut street in San Fransisco where every second shop was showcasing cold-pressed juices and vegan desserts… I was most definitely in my element.

Of course I made it my mission to find the best acai bowls in town. I’m sure there are more I haven’t yet tried, but here are my top picks.

Basik acai

Clearly I am not alone in thinking this is one of the best acai bowls around given that people queue for an hour to get their fix on the weekend, myself included.

I tried the “Banyan” bowl (the one with peanut butter) but I don’t think you can go wrong.

Bowl’d Acai

I have been following their drool worthy IG for years so visiting a Bowl’d acai truck was high priority… and it certainly did not disappoint. I opted for the “These Nuts” acai bowl which is topped with homemade granola, banana, peanut butter (and lots of it might I add), hemp seeds, bee pollen and honey. It’s a must try! Toppings were on point.

Remember it’s a moving food truck so be sure you check their website for location.

Nourish cafe

This is a great little cafe serving lots of healthy salads, smoothies and raw treats. They do an original acai as well as a green acai… I opted for the original but for those feeling adventurous the option is there.

Earth bar

I also tried their delicious toast “sampler” where you choose any four sweet and savoury toast toppers. I had the smashed avo and the Mediterranean veg with hummus for savoury and then a house made “nutella” and almond butter for something sweet.

This is another great place to get your acai fix (they also have a great selection of juices and superfood smoothies). I asked for unsweetened and added almond butter – a compulsory addition in my books. It’s right by Soul Cycle if you’re in need of a work out pre gigantic acai. I tried a class while I was away and loved it!

Urban remedy

Urban Remedy is perfect for an on-the-go lunch (they have a lot of pre prepared salads and snacks) as well as cold-pressed juices and almond milk smoothies. It is a chain so you shouldn’t have difficulty locating one, I ran into them everywhere from Union Street and Hayes Valley to the Ferry Building Farmers Markets.

Kokkari

This was my stand out restaurant meal in San Fransisco. If you love quality Greek food, then this place is an absolute must. Very vibey too. Make sure you try the Saghanaki – it is to die for. So much so that we just had to order another round…

I would recommend booking in advance to guarantee a spot.

As well as finding lots of impressive foodie spots, I also found some pretty great coffee – something I was told I would struggle with in the US.  My favourite was Blue Bottle coffee… The queue is a bit of a giveaway. They have multiple locations throughout the city. I suggest visiting the one at the Ferry Building Farmers Markets so you can check out the stalls while you’re there.

Another excellent coffee shop I found was in Hayes Valley called Ritual coffee. Hayes Valley is definitely an area worth exploring – lots of trendy cafes and boutiques.

One more thing! If you have time I would highly recommend renting a car for a day trip to Napa Valley (or maybe an overnight trip if you plan on doing lots of wine tastings…) It is such a beautiful spot and so rejuvenating. My sister and I spent the day lounging by the pool at Spa Solage and treating ourselves to massages and their signature mineral rich mud therapy treatment. We came home feeling very zen.

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