Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# While I'm Young

UK Travel and Lifestyle Blog

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [23 Unique Things To Do In Tenerife (Beyond Your Hotel)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-tenerife/) - Holidays to Tenerife have been popular amongst us Brits for decades but not everyone who visits the island strays from its beaten path and experiences life beyond the resorts. I visited on a press trip with Visit Tenerife to discover all of the fun, unique things to do in Tenerife. Over the course of our
- [21 Unique Things To Do In Antalya, Turkiye](https://www.whileimyoung.com/21-unique-things-to-do-in-antalya-turkiye/) - With 400 miles of stunning coastline giving way to the Mediterranean Sea, countless ancient Roman sites, a charming old town and natural beauty waiting to be discovered, it's no surprise Antalya is a popular destination for holidays in Turkiye. I've visited Turkey numerous times since my teen years and even did a road trip from
- [Afternoon Tea At Jesmond Dene House, Newcastle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/afternoon-tea-at-jesmond-dene-house-newcastle-review/) - I can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon in the North East than catching up with a girlfriend over Afternoon Tea, can you? I was invited to review Jesmond Dene House's Afternoon Tea offering recently and it rounded off a great weekend in my adopted home. Afternoon Tea is the perfect
- [The Reserve at Chester Zoo Accommodation Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-reserve-at-chester-zoo-accommodation-review/) - Did you know you can sleep over at Chester Zoo in a luxury lodge overlooking the giraffe enclosure? The Reserve is a luxury accommodation within Chester zoo comprised of lodges set in a savannah-inspired landscape, complete with private lake. We booked an overnight stay at The Reserve in January as a family of four adults, plus
- [An Itinerary for Visiting Gdansk for Three Days](https://www.whileimyoung.com/three-days-in-gdansk-itinerary/) - We recently spent three days in Gdansk after I found some cheap flights from Newcastle. It wasn't really on my 'must-visit' list before I booked the trip, but Gdansk quickly jumped to the top of my European city break list after our visit. I had a flurry of DMs over on Instagram from people asking
- [One perfect day in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria](https://www.whileimyoung.com/one-day-in-las-palmas-what-to-do/) - If you’re visiting Gran Canaria, you should definitely plan to spend at least 24 hours in Las Palmas, the capital city of the Canary island. You’ll find the majority of the destination’s cultural attractions in Las Palmas and the city also has some excellent restaurants so if you’re a foodie like me, it’s a must!
- [Why Norway’s Fjords Feel Like Another Planet](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-norways-fjords-feel-like-another-planet/) - I’ve been lucky enough to travel to some truly stunning places, but nothing compares to the moment you sail into Norway’s fjords. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel small in the best possible way. Imagine glassy waters stretching out for miles, dramatic cliffs shooting skyward, and waterfalls tumbling down rock faces so
- [Why More Millennials Are Choosing Cruises over City Breaks](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-more-millennials-are-choosing-cruises-over-city-breaks/) - City breaks have long reigned as the go-to getaway for millennials like me because they offer quick flights, trendy cafés, photo-ready landmarks, and a hit of culture all packed into a long weekend. But in recent years, something interesting has happened: more millennials are swapping condensed urban escapes for the surprising convenience and adventure of
- [My Post-Flight Self Care Routine](https://www.whileimyoung.com/post-flight-self-care-routine/) - I live for adventures, but part of me always looks forward to getting home after a long trip and getting back to my comfortable Simba Hybrid Mattress. Travelling throws your body into a bit of a tailspin and while I love pursuing new experiences all over the world, I tend to crave rest and some
- [YorkTest Food & Drink Intolerance Test Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/yorktest-food-drink-intolerance-test-review/) - Perhaps it’s part of getting older, but my own wellness has preoccupied my thoughts more and more over the past few years. I know I’m not alone in that. Now that I’m a mother, my health has become even more important to me, particularly because we all know how essential quality sleep is for our
- [39 Best Things To Do In Sorrento, Italy in 2025](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-sorrento-italy/) - Sorrento has welcomed droves of tourists every year since way back when the Romans started building holiday homes there and it's easy to see why. A short, scenic ride from Naples Airport, this quintessentially Italian city nestled high on the clifftops of Campania is all about the dramatic views, food and vibes. There are so
- [38 Great Things To Do In Sunderland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-sunderland/) - Whether you live in North East England or you're planning a trip, Sunderland may not be high on your list of places to visit. My adopted home doesn't get a lot of love, but having lived here for more than seven years, I've found it's home to some of the friendliest people, fantastic countryside and
- [Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek Antalya Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/titanic-deluxe-golf-belek-antalya-hotel-review/) - An unbiased review of Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek Hotel in Antalya, Türkiye covering food and drink, child-friendly facilities, suites and more.
- [My Mini Guide to Dalyan, Turkey](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dalyan-turkey-what-to-do/) - Located in the Muğla province of Turkey, the sleepy fishing village on the Dalyan river attracts a laidback crowd who come for the slower pace. That doesn't mean you'll be lost for things to do in Dalyan though. If all-inclusive resorts aren't your thing but you still want a relaxing break in Turkey, Dalyan is
- [10 Unforgettable Days in Türkiye: Full Trip Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/10-days-in-turkey-itinerary/) - One of my favourite adventures to date is an epic 10 day road trip through Turkey that was packed with bucket list experiences and otherworldly destinations. This is my complete itinerary for ten days in Turkey, including our five day self-drive tour from Marmaris to Cappadocia and back down to the south of the country.
- [The Best Place To Stay In Phuket For Couples On A Honeymoon](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-place-to-stay-in-phuket-for-couples-on-honeymoon/) - Searching for a special honeymoon hotel in Thailand? My review of The Shore at Katathani might just sway you to take the plunge and book the most romantic getaway of your life at this Phuket resort! Tom and I waited almost a year after our wedding in Sorrento, Italy to go on our honeymoon, and
- [The Ravenala Attitude Mauritius Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-ravenala-attitude-mauritius-hotel-review/) - We stayed at The Ravenala Attitude Hotel in Balaclava, Mauritius for our babymoon in early 2024. We were there for 10 nights on an all-inclusive ‘all-in-all-out’ basis, meaning we could enjoy all-inclusive food and beverages from the moment of arrival to departure. We chose this four-star hotel in Mauritius for our babymoon because it offered
- [The Ultimate Dubai Itinerary: Best Things To Do In Five Days](https://www.whileimyoung.com/five-day-dubai-itinerary/) - So you have five days in Dubai and you want to make sure you squeeze every last moment of luxury, sunshine and wow factor out of them? My Dubai itinerary will help you plan your trip, whether you're staying in Dubai for five days, a week or longer. There's so much to see and do
- [17 Things To Do In Newcastle This Christmas](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-newcastle-this-christmas/) - Christmas lovers, rejoice. As the temperatures creep lower and lower and shopping starts to feel like a reenactment of The Hunger Games, the festive season in Newcastle rolls into full swing. This year, there are loads of Christmassy events and things to do in Newcastle. From festive activities in the Toon to special events, Christmas
- [The Best Brighton Day Trip Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/day-out-in-brighton-things-to-do/) - Colourful, alternative and packed with young people: Brighton quickly became my new favourite UK city when I first visited. Here's my brilliant Brighton day trip itinerary for first-time visitors. While Brighton's attractions are numerous and diverse, one of the best things to do in Brighton is simply to take an aimless walk around the city
- [El Dorado Seaside Suites Mexico Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/el-dorado-seaside-suites-mexico-hotel-review/) - As part of a recent press trip with TUI, Tom and I spent seven nights at El Dorado Seaside Suites Spa Resort by Karisma on Kantenah Bay near Tulum in Mexico. I wanted to share my review of El Dorado Seaside Suites, although this piece of content is not part of my agreement with TUI and all
- [Is Dubai Safe For Women? Dubai Solo Female Travel Tips](https://www.whileimyoung.com/single-female-travel-in-dubai-solo-is-it-safe/) - One of the most commonly asked questions for Dubai tourists – female visitors in particular – is whether Dubai is safe for women. Having become known for my Dubai expat diaries during my time living in the UAE, I wanted to share everything I know about travelling as a solo female in Dubai. What qualifies
- [Best Places To Visit In South India If You Have Two Weeks](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-in-south-india-itinerary/) - My fiancé and I recently spent two incredible weeks travelling in India's beautiful South. It was the best adventure we've been on together to date so I wanted to share our complete itinerary for two weeks in South India. We went to some of the top places to visit in South India starting with five
- [19 Fun Things To Do In Manchester On A Girls' Weekend](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-experiences-in-manchester-things-to-do/) - Manchester's stylish daytime hangouts, fun nightlife and luxury shopping make it a fabulous destination for a girls' trip. If you're planning a hen weekend in Manchester or you're searching for glamorous things to do in Manchester with the girls on a city break, I've got you covered. The Northern powerhouse has been undergoing a contemporary
- [Things To Do In Mumbai: 24 Hour Guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-mumbai-24-hours/) - One day in Mumbai is a quintessential Indian travel experience. The heaving city should be on every traveller's itinerary, but it isn't a destination known for its tourist attractions. Instead, the best things to do in Mumbai revolve around experiencing the hustle and bustle, sounds and smells of this overstuffed metropolis. If you're wondering how
- [43 Fun Things To Do In Scarborough UK](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-scarborough-uk/) - Reminiscent of the British seaside's glory days, Scarborough in North Yorkshire has all of the ingredients for a great day out in the UK: bucket and spades galore, plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions, a plethora of cheap and cheerful activities and of course, the unmistakeable scent of the great British chippy in the air.
- [Four Days In Marrakech Itinerary: Best Things To Do In The Red City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/marrakech-four-day-itinerary-best-things-to-do/) - Marrakech has been on my wish list of travel destinations ever since it started getting some serious attention from Instagrammers. I know, I hate me too. I spent four days in Marrakech in search of pretty riads, red city walls and luxurious textiles, but found so much more. Despite soaring to the top of the
- [15 Unmissable Day Trips from Sorrento](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-day-trips-from-sorrento-italy/) - After getting married in Italy in May, my new husband and I toured some of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento. Here's my pick of the best places to visit near Sorrento, from bucket list attractions like Vesuvius and Pompeii to lesser-visited but nonetheless charming villages around Campania. While there are plenty of exciting things to
- [6 Unmissable Attractions In Olden, The Norwegian Fjords](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-olden-norwegian-fjords/) - I recently explored the magnificent Norwegian Fjords with P&O Cruises and got to experience some of their most popular shore excursions in Olden, one of our ports of call. Olden, Norway is a tranquil village nestling at the southern end of one branch of the Nordfjord and at the entrance to the stunning Oldedalen Valley. We
- [40 Unique Things To Do In Athens, Greece](https://www.whileimyoung.com/unique-things-to-do-in-athens-greece/) - While the capital city is famous for its many Ancient Greek attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Athens besides visiting the historic sights. I’m not saying you should skip the Acropolis or Parthenon, but I totally get that not everyone enjoys the same sort of sightseeing. Luckily, Athens has plenty to offer
- [Stunning Cornwall Holiday Homes for Group Getaways](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cornwall-group-holiday-homes/) - England's southwest coast is so beautiful, you could be forgiven for forgetting you're still in England as you sink your toes into the sand there. The 'Cornish Riviera' has been on my bucket list for some time and I've always thought it would be a great destination for a hen do or big friends' reunion.
- [Fun Things To Do In Leeds: My Weekend Guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/fun-things-to-do-in-leeds/) - If you love shopping, beautiful architecture and raucous nightlife, a weekend in Leeds allows you to indulge in all three. The West Yorkshire city is the third largest in the UK and is perfect for girly weekends away, romantic breaks, shopping trips and even fun family days out. When I was invited to take a
- [What To Do In Liverpool: Two Day Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-liverpool-two-days/) - Liverpool has undergone a huge regeneration to establish itself as one of the best tourism destinations in the UK, boasting the largest collection of galleries and museums outside of London and (I'll fight you on this) the friendliest locals in the country. There are so many fun things to do in Liverpool! The city is
- [Things To Do In Berwick-Upon-Tweed](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-berwick-upon-tweed/) - Nestled on the southern side of the Scottish/English border, the traditional market town of Berwick-Upon-Tweed might not be the first place that comes to mind for a romantic weekend away. Ha ppily though, we found that Berwick offers a lot to couples looking to indulge in good food and fun outdoors activities during a slow
- [15 Magical Glamping Sites In The North East](https://www.whileimyoung.com/glamping-sites-in-north-east-england/) - The North East of England is a prime location for camping holidays and all manner of outdoorsy getaways. The majestic coastline, rolling hills and sleepy villages scattered across the region offer happy campers a chance to unplug, unwind and enjoy the British landscape in an oh-so-2020 socially distanced fashion. If waking up in a sodden
- [Magical Things To Do In Knaresborough, Yorkshire](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-knaresborough-yorkshire/) - Don't you just love the power of Instagram when it comes to finding new places to visit? When I asked my followers if they had tips for beautiful places to visit in Yorkshire, a few people recommended a day out in Knaresborough. I had never heard of it before, but after looking at people's pictures
- [Our Lake District Road Trip Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/lake-district-road-trip-itinerary/) - Best viewed from the comfort of a heated vehicle, the Lake District is a huge expanse of untamed natural beauty in Cumbria, England. A Lake District road trip offers tourists windswept hikes, epic panoramas, quaint guesthouses on every corner and plenty of cosy village pubs to warm up in after a day in the great
- [Visiting The Lake District: What To Know Before You Go](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tips-for-visiting-the-lake-district/) - If you're visiting the Lake District this year, you should be prepared – the Cumbrian destination has soared in popularity with British tourists and things have changed a bit! I did a three day road trip around the Lake District in a campervan loaned from All Seasons Leisure recently and I wanted to share my
- [What To Pack For A UK Road Trip](https://www.whileimyoung.com/what-to-pack-for-a-uk-road-trip/) - Packing for a road trip can be challenging, especially if you're trying to figure out what to pack for a long drive in the UK, where the unpredictable weather makes outfit choices tricky. Having travelled to over 50 countries and explored countless destinations at home in the UK by car, I like to think I'm
- [The Best Days Out In Lincolnshire, UK](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-days-out-in-lincolnshire-uk/) - The Lincolnshire Wolds are a slightly obscure gem in the English landscape that been kept something of a secret by those in the know for too long. When I was invited to explore the county on a press trip, I couldn't think of a single famous Lincolnshire attraction and certainly didn't know of any places
- [Best Places To Go In The Lake District](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-to-go-in-the-lake-district/) - The English Lake District's breathtaking scenery makes it popular with holidaymakers keen to indulge their love of active adventures. Whether you're into hiking trips, cosy cottage breaks or romantic getaways, this is a part of England that ticks all the boxes. I did a road trip around the Lake District recently and wanted to share
- [Best Gastro Pubs in London - Top Places to Eat & Drink](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-gastro-pubs-in-london/) - London is world-renowned for its culture, art and history. Wherever you go in this city, there’s sure to be a story behind it. And London's pub food is no different. Because London is such a cosmopolitan city, you can find cuisines from almost anywhere in the world. Whether it’s flavourful street food or Michelin-starred tidbits,
- [17 Things To Do In Durham UK: City, Countryside & Coast](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-durham-uk/) - Durham has everything you could want from a short break; including five-star hotels, a spectacular coastline, acres of lush landscapes and a host of cultural attractions. With the coast, country and city all in one county, you'll never be lost for things to do in Durham. Admittedly, I've been a somewhat lazy North East adoptee.
- [The Best Places To Stay In Cornwall](https://www.whileimyoung.com/where-to-stay-in-cornwall/) - Cornwall's pristine beaches, picturesque towns and mouthwatering pasties make it a popular destination for both UK staycations and tourists from further afield. With more and more of us opting to holiday in England, I've teamed up with Classic Cottages to bring you this guide to the best areas to stay in Cornwall, whatever kind of
- [See Newcastle’s Landmarks on this Walking Tour](https://www.whileimyoung.com/newcastle-landmarks-walking-tour/) - This self-guided walking tour of Newcastle documents the route I followed when my Dad came to visit me in the North East for the first time recently. I planned our day out in Newcastle meticulously to ensure Dad would get to see all of the top places of interest in Newcastle Upon Tyne on a
- [The Best Independent Shops in Morpeth, Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/shops-in-morpeth-northumberland/) - Morpeth is a traditional market town in Northumberland that benefits from many of the perks of a big city. While the destination has retained its small town charm and is still a centre of commerce, its high street boasts a number of international brands among the various local stores. There are plenty of great shops
- [15 Top Attractions in Salisbury, UK](https://www.whileimyoung.com/top-attractions-in-salisbury-uk/) - Salisbury is a charming medieval city located in the south of England. It's known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque countryside. While the destination is perhaps best known for its iconic Cathedral, the added bonus of visiting Salisbury is that you can combine a trip there with a visit to the nearby Stonehenge
- [Our Luxury UK Treehouse Getaway](https://www.whileimyoung.com/ramside-hall-treehouse-review/) - I’ve dreamed about staying in one of Ramside Hall’s luxury treehouses since the Durham hotel announced they were building them, so when we booked an overnight stay for our first wedding anniversary I was thrilled. Would they live up to the hype? The Ramside Hall treehouses offer a truly unique dog-friendly UK getaway experience, with
- [5 Best Spa Hotels In North East England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-spa-break-hotels-north-east-england/) - The North East of England boasts a generous collection of luxury spa hotels, and each has it's own merits. I've done the painful job of sampling as many of the best spa days and breaks across the region, in order to bring you this list of the top spa break options for couples in the North
- [Forty Winks In Durham: The Most Unique Guesthouse In North East England?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/forty-winks-guesthouse-durham-hotel-review/) - This weekend made me realise that we don't go to Durham nearly enough. It's only a short drive from our house, but the city is one of my favourites in England. It's especially beautiful in Autumn, when the streets are littered with crunchy auburn leaves and the chill in the air hints that the festive
- [6 Best Cities To Visit In The North Of England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cities-to-visit-north-of-england/) - It aint so grim Up North – at least, not in these northern English cities. The North is home to some of the best places to visit in England, yet foreign visitors seem to head straight for London when they come to the UK. Having lived up here for most of my life, only feeling
- [Sleeping In A Castle In North East England: Walworth Castle Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/walworth-castle-hotel-review/) - Is sleeping in a castle on your bucket list? If so, you need to book a night at Walworth Castle Hotel near Darlington. I was invited to review an overnight stay at this luxury North East England hotel and sample a meal in the hotel's newly refurbished 1189 restaurant. The wannabe princess in me just
- [One Day In Bath, England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/one-day-in-bath-england/) - Bath's architecture and heritage have always piqued my interest. Reminiscent of my beloved Edinburgh in its size and stature, the Somerset city is dripping in history. A centre of wellbeing since Roman times, Bath is still known today for having the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in. There are whispers
- [Top Things To Do In York, England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-york-england/) - York oozes history and charm, so it was one of the first places I wanted to take my mum when she came to visit us in England. There are plenty of things to do in York for all ages, no matter what time of year it is, so I knew we'd have a good time
- [Two Days In Athens: The Best 48 Hour Athens Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-in-athens-itinerary/) - Got two days in Athens, and questioning whether you'll have time to squeeze in all the sightseeing you want to do while still having fun? There's definitely a lot to see and do there, so planning a trip can be quite overwhelming. This itinerary for two days in Athens is ideal for first-time visitors. Based
- [The Best Athens Hotel With A Rooftop Pool](https://www.whileimyoung.com/lighthouse-athens-hotel-review/) - If you're planning a trip to Athens this summer, you might find that you crave a little respite from the heat in the Greek capital between seeing the major sights. I strongly recommend booking a hotel in Athens that has a pool, so you can cool off when you need to. We visited Athens for
- [42 Unique Things To Do In Isle of Man](https://www.whileimyoung.com/unique-cheap-things-to-do-in-isle-of-man/) - Planning a visit to the little rock in the Irish Sea and looking for the best things to do in Isle of Man? As a born and bred Manx girl who goes back home to the island regularly, allow me to guide you! Isle of Man was once a haven for British holidaymakers but not
- [Three Days In Warsaw: A Complete Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/three-days-in-warsaw-poland-itinerary/) - I recently spent three days in Warsaw and I've come back filled with an enthusiasm for the destination that I wasn't expecting. I hadn't heard too much online hype about Poland's capital before my trip, but cheap flights lured me to book a city break in Warsaw and I'm so glad I took a chance on the
- [Best Things To Do In Luxembourg City And Beyond: Full Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-luxembourg-city-three-days/) - It's often overlooked by people planning a European city break, but I recently discovered that Luxembourg's minuscule size makes it an appealing destination for people who want to pack a lot into a long weekend. The best things to do in Luxembourg City are easy to cram into one day thanks to the city's compact
- [What to do on a day trip to Capri](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-capri-italy/) - If you're holidaying on Italy's iconic Amalfi Coast, Capri is a must-visit. The island in the Tyrrhenian Sea is a staple on the travel calendars of the rich and famous worldwide, but we mere mortals can visit Capri without spending a fortune if we plan accordingly! I spent a day in Capri during my Italian
- [The Best UK Black Friday & Cyber Weekend Travel Deals 2022](https://www.whileimyoung.com/black-friday-cyber-weekend-travel-deals/) - Black Friday and Cyber Weekend are around the corner, and now is a great time to get a good deal on your upcoming adventures! Whether you've got a big overseas trip planned that you're yet to book accommodation for, or you're looking for an irresistible deal on your next weekend away, now is the time
- [The Ultimate Itinerary for 7 Days In England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/7-days-in-england-itinerary/) - Historic villages, rolling green meadows and charismatic cities; the best attractions in England are diverse. If you’re planning a trip to see more of the country, you might be wondering exactly how to put together a full itinerary for a week in England. In this article, guest blogger Claire will show you the highlights -
- [10 Cool Things To Do In Gibraltar](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-gibraltar/) - Gibraltar is one of the most popular destinations in Southern Spain. You can easily get to Gibraltar as a day trip from Malaga, Marbella or other locations on Costa del Sol. If you're travelling from the UK, there are cheap direct flights to Gibraltar from various airports. While it may not be technically ‘Spain’, this
- [Discovering The Stunning North East Coastline By Bike](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cycling-on-the-north-east-coast/) - Do you consider yourself an 'outdoors' person? I'm definitely not. I didn't play outside much when I was little, I hate being cold and my idea of being at one with nature is lying in the sun someplace exotic, preferably with a cocktail in hand. I feel like this is at odds with my 'image'
- [May Highlights: Bucharest and Benidorm](https://www.whileimyoung.com/may-highlights-bucharest-benidorm/) - It's been a busy month, both in my actual real life and on the blog and I feel like I've barely had a chance to reflect. That's why I love writing my monthly update posts - they force me to sit down and think about what I've achieved or learned in the past few weeks.
- [7 Reasons To Stay In Seminyak, Not Kuta In Bali](https://www.whileimyoung.com/7-reasons-to-stay-in-seminyak-not-kuta/) - Seminyak may have once been Kuta's shy and retiring little sister but she's grown up and now she's way cooler. Here are a few reasons you should skip Kuta and head straight for sexy Seminyak on your Bali holiday. It seems that travellers visiting Bali go for one of two very different experiences, and the type of holiday
- [15 Unmissable Things To Do In Split, Croatia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/24-hours-in-split-croatia/) - Split, with its backdrop of rugged mountains and view of the Adriatic, is the place to see Dalmatian life in action. Split is the second largest city in Croatia and while its streets are slightly less teeming with tourists than Dubrovnik, the palaces and Romanesque churches packed into Split's ancient walls make it worth visiting.
- [12 Unique Things To Do In The Costa Del Sol](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-costa-del-sol/) - When you plan a holiday to Costa del Sol, you can expect the famous three S's: sun, sea and sangria. But with a growing number of people seeking something more from their summer holidays, we're all starting to discover that there's more to Spain's tourist hotspots than sand and sun loungers. There's a wide array
- [10 Day Europe Itinerary For First Time Backpackers](https://www.whileimyoung.com/10-day-europe-trip-itinerary-backpacking/) - Visit seven countries and ten destinations in ten days with this Europe backpacking itinerary. Backpacking in Europe should be a rite of passage for young, wanderlust-stricken souls, if you ask me. The continent has so much to reveal to travellers: from the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik to the colourful bays of Malta; Austria's rugged peaks and Spain's soft
- [Looking back on one year of part-time travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/part-time-travel/) - Balancing work with part-time travel One year, 50 + days of travel 2015 was my first year of full-time work. When I published my travel plans for this year, I had no idea that the places I would go and hours I'd spend in the sky would far surpass my expectations for the 365 days ahead.
- [Surviving Without Wi-Fi Abroad: My Digital Detox In Cuba](https://www.whileimyoung.com/surviving-without-wifi-abroad/) - What do you mean there's no wifi? Have you ever done a digital detox? Have you ever considered doing one, but the demands of daily life and the tempting availability of technology at every turn have made it seem impossible? A vacation in the sun is the perfect time to recharge your mental batteries and
- [What To Do In Dubrovnik If You Have Three Days](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubrovnik-three-days-things-to-do/) - I've always been inexplicably drawn to Croatia, so when I found cheap flights to Dubrovnik in July, I started planning our Croatia itinerary with glee. We began with three days in Dubrovnik (four nights), then took a bus to Split, where we spent one night before sailing to Hvar for our final two nights. Visiting
- [18 Best Things To Do In Saint Lucia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-saint-lucia/) - After our Saint Lucia holiday at the beginning of the year, I promised I'd share a post about all the best things to do in Saint Lucia. We stayed at a gorgeous all-inclusive resort (read my review of Royalton Saint Lucia for info) so much of the fortnight was spent lounging around the pool, but
- [Best Restaurants In Douglas, Isle of Man](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-restaurants-douglas-isle-of-man/) - The Isle of Man's gastronomy might not be what attracts visitors to the island but I don't think any visit to the land of my birth is complete without sampling the local produce, particularly in some of the best restaurants in Douglas, the island's 'capital'. As the first island nation to be named as an
- [Best Places To Eat In Durham, England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-to-eat-in-durham-england/) - Durham in North East England is home to an array of great places to eat, ranging from slick city centre spots to cosy pubs in the countryside through to fine dining in the county's manor estates. In fact, eating out is one of the best things to do in Durham. We visit Durham's best restaurants
- [Walking Simonside Hills in Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/simonside-hills-walk-northumberland/) - In an effort to counteract spending most of the week hunched over a laptop, I've been trying to get out on a decent hike in the North East every weekend now the weather is improving. Our most recent adventure took us to Simonside Hills in beautiful Northumberland. The name of Simonside Hills may have come
- [Best Places To Eat & Drink In Sunderland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-restaurants-in-sunderland/) - One of the things I love most about Sunderland is that it’s possible to dine out on the cheap. Some of the best restaurants in Sunderland aren’t at all expensive, but they don't compromise on quality. In the past year or so, Mackems have seen huge investment in the city’s culinary scene with new foodie
- [Charlton Hall's Charlotte Suite Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/charlton-hall-northumberland-hotel-review/) - Located near Alnwick in the verdant Northumberland countryside, Charlton Hall was once an 18th-century stately home to some of England’s notable gentry. Today, it’s a rather magical UK retreat. My new husband and I (nope, still not tired of saying that) were invited to spend the night there recently, and I couldn’t wait to share
- [Review: Shepherds Huts at The Apple Inn in Lucker, Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/review-shepherds-huts-apple-inn-lucker-northumberland/) - I love quirky accommodation, so I was excited to be invited to review the new shepherds huts at The Apple Inn in Lucker, Northumberland. Any excuse for a trip to the North East’s countryside! The shepherds huts and The Apple Inn itself are dog-friendly, meaning our cockapoo Archie could come along for the adventure. Guests
- [Teesdale Cheesemakers Shepherds Hut Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/teesdale-cheesemakers-shepherds-hut-review/) - Located on Pond Farm near Bishop Auckland in County Durham, Teesdale Cheesemakers' glamping huts are one of the more unique accommodation options in North East England. Nestled in two acres of woodland a stone's throw from Cafe Cheesedale, where goats and other animals graze nearby, there are two dog-friendly, adults-only shepherds huts with wood-fired hot
- [El Dorado Royale Spa Resort Mexico Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/el-dorado-royale-mexico-hotel-review/) - For my 30th birthday, Tom and I spent ten nights at El Dorado Royale Spa Resort by Karisma in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It was my second time in Mexico and we were thoroughly impressed by the beachfront resort, so I couldn't wait to share my review! We chose the hotel because it's adults-only, it's
- [Royalton Saint Lucia Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/royalton-saint-lucia-hotel-review/) - If you follow me over on Instagram, you probably got sick of my endless Saint Lucia updates that started at the beginning of the year and haven't stopped since (because I'm now back in the freezing UK and throwback pics are all I have right now). I was there for a fortnight with my fiancé
- [9 Best Things About Bristol & Why You Should Visit](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-about-bristol-england/) - Quirky, colourful and unconventional in the best possible way: you should 100% visit Bristol if you're trying to see more of the UK. The largest city in the southwest of England was recently named by none other than the New York Times as one of the best places to visit in 2018, and it's being
- [How To Have An Authentic Spanish Tapas Night At Home](https://www.whileimyoung.com/spanish-tapas-night-ideas/) - There's one particular Spanish food I always look forward to when I'm visiting Spain. It's something no tapas spread is ever complete without – and no, I'm not talking about sangria (though sangria always has a place at my table). Of course, I make an effort to try the regional delicacies wherever I travel, but
- [15 Fun Things To Do In & Around Lafayette, Louisiana](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-lafayette-louisiana/) - For my first ever trip to the southern United States, I visited Lafayette in Louisiana on a press trip to experience Cajun country's Mardi Gras with Lafayette Travel. Between parades, we discovered some of the most fun things to do in Lafayette. Lafayette is the hub city of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country on the
- [10 Best Places To Eat In Lafayette, Louisiana's Cajun Heartland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-to-eat-in-lafayette-louisiana/) - For those of us whose lives revolve around food, Louisiana's Acadiana region is a veritable paradise. Homegrown Creole and Cajun flavours endow the destination with an intoxicating culinary landscape that starts somewhere with your first taste of boudin and ends when you roll back to where you came from, chock-full of gumbo. I've always said
- [The Best Bars In Warsaw, Poland: A Drinker's Guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-bars-in-warsaw-poland/) - I was recently in Warsaw for a long weekend with my fiancé and I won't lie, we spent most of our time in the city's many watering holes. The city has tons of attractions, which I covered in my guide to what to do with three days in Warsaw, but what got us excited were
- [North East Days Out: Beamish Open Air Museum](https://www.whileimyoung.com/north-east-days-out-beamish-open-air-museum/) - It's a little bit shameful, how little of North East England I've seen since moving here, so I'm on a mission to fix that. I've got a list of places around the North East to visit that's as long as my arm, and most of it has been inspired by two of my favourite NE
- [A Review of Santa Catalina Hotel in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria](https://www.whileimyoung.com/santa-catalina-hotel-review-gran-canaria/) - We recently found cheap flights to Gran Canaria and decided to book a little city break in Las Palmas, the capital city of the island. Because we had saved money on the flights, I decided to go a bit bougie when it came to accommodation. I booked three nights at the oldest hotel in Las
- [Visiting Our Wedding Venues in Sorrento, Italy](https://www.whileimyoung.com/visiting-our-wedding-venues-in-sorrento-italy/) - If you followed my Instagram Stories last week, you were privy to a whole lot of pictures of me stuffing my face with pasta and pizza, you lucky thing. I also posted some glorious Italian scenery shots, which I'll now spend the next month or so milking. Tom and I were in Sorrento viewing our
- [10 Luxury Hideaways for a Romantic Break in Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/luxury-accommodations-in-northumberland/) - The rugged Northumbrian landscape lends itself well to a romantic escape in the North East of England. From invigorating walks around Hadrian's Wall and picnics on the wind-whipped coastline to fascinating afternoons exploring picturesque Bamburgh Castle and postcard-perfect Druridge Bay, Northumberland's array of attractions make it perfect for an epic weekend away with your love.
- [Rockliffe Hall Hotel Spa Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/rockliffe-hall-hotel-spa-review/) - Since moving to North East England, I've been fortunate enough to have stayed at some of the region's best hotels. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lap up the luxury at these places, and I relish every second of each stay – none more so than my recent overnight experience at Rockliffe Hall Hotel and
- [Flexispot Cycle Desk Bike V9 Pro review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/flexispot-cycle-desk-bike-v9-pro-review/) - Is staying active when you have a desk job a struggle for you? It’s definitely one of my biggest challenges! On a busy day, I’ll sometimes look at my Fitbit and feel ashamed of how little I’ve moved. When your commute is a bleary-eyed stumble from bed to the home office, it’s easy to slip
- [Malmaison Manchester Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/malmaison-manchester-review/) - Looking for a stylish hotel in Manchester that's perfectly located in the city's bustling center? Look no further. The night before we flew to Cuba, Tom and I stayed at Malmaison, which is just a stone's throw from Piccadilly Station. Whether it's for a shopping and drinking trip or a romantic weekend, I'd definitely recommend Malmaison to friends. Here's
- [Weird Food I've Eaten While Travelling](https://www.whileimyoung.com/weird-food-travelling/) - They say that one of the best ways to experience a culture is by taste and there's plenty of weird food around the world waiting to confuse your tastebuds. On my travels, I've had the opportunity to try national dishes that are way tastier than my own Manx staple of chips, cheese and gravy; though
- [My top travelling songs](https://www.whileimyoung.com/my-top-travelling-songs/) - Best travelling songs for your first adventure One thing I love about travel is the amount of time it hands to you for reflection. What compliments deep thoughts and spiritual awakening on an adventure? Music! Here, I've collected my favourite travel songs. The ones that bring back memories, speak to me about globetrotting and the
- [Why You Should Spend Your Money On Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-you-should-spend-your-money-on-travel/) - Travel is the best thing that money can buy Flicking through your facebook photos, what do you want to see? A ream of images of yourself in your local club with a drink in hand, or fragments of the trip of a lifetime? Spend your hard earned cash on travel rather than material things like shoes
- [North East Delicacies](https://www.whileimyoung.com/north-east-delicacies/) - In case you haven't already gathered, I love food. I love nutritious meals I can feel smug about, I love calorific takeaways that leave me in a food coma and I definitely love desserts. One of the things I'm really enjoying about getting to know the North East is discovering the regional delicacies. Sometimes I'm
- [Why you should go to Falkirk if you visit Scotland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/falkirk-scotland-kelpies/) - Why you should put Falkirk on your Scotland itinerary Growing up, to me Falkirk was a sparkly paradise akin to the bright lights of NYC. Don't laugh. The Scottish town was home to my mum's side of the family and it symbolised everything the Isle of Man was not to my unworldly eight year old
- [The best ways to see Maya Bay](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-best-ways-to-see-maya-bay/) - Visiting 'That Beach from The Beach' My bare feet softly padded over the sand, and the sounds of the waves grew nearer. I parted leafy greenery and behold: the iconic bay spread before me. For a split second, I felt like a wild adventuress who had stumbled upon a secret oasis. The leaves framed the scene we
- [Things To Do On A Stag Or Hen Do In Newcastle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/going-stag-in-newcastle-theres-no-better-place/) - Even before the likes of Geordie Shore made their way onto our TV screens, the Northumbrian city of Newcastle has always had a bit of a reputation for being a great place to party. The city centre has a winning combination of brilliant nightlife, plenty of variety, and a friendly Northern price tag. No wonder
- [How to Travel when you have a Job](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-travel-when-you-have-a-job/) - 'Quit your job and travel the world', travel bloggers will tell you. Oh, because it's so easy. Most of us know that we have to work to live, and that many full-time travellers are either working extremely hard and sacrificing other things for travel, or living off a trust fund. We get it, that will
- [Third Class Train Travel from Bangkok to Phuket](https://www.whileimyoung.com/third-class-train-travel-bangkok-phuket/) - Do you need to get from Vietnam to Bangkok to Surat Thani to Phuket to Koh Phi Phi? Here's how you probably shouldn't do it. What's third-class train travel like in Thailand? I'm all for intrepid travel, but I wasn't expecting third-class train compartments in South East Asia to be quite so horrific. We chose
- [How to Save Money for Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-save-money-for-travel/) - It annoys me when people ask me how I can afford to travel. I could ask them how they can afford to buy new clothes all the time, or own a nice car. I could tell them to mind their own business, but I decided to write this blog post instead. Maybe you're dying to
- [Nha Trang: Vietnam's Beach Capital](https://www.whileimyoung.com/nha-trang-vietnam-beach/) - Located on the South Central Coast of Vietnam, Nah Trang is a bustling city with high rises and a multitude of seafood restaurants, but meander through the landscaped sculpture gardens and you will discover why Nha Trang is the country's beach capital. Getting from Mui Ne to Nha Trang From Mui Ne we jumped on an
- [Storms and Secluded Beaches in Mui Ne, Vietnam](https://www.whileimyoung.com/storms-and-secluded-beaches-in-mui-ne-vietnam/) - Have you even heard of Mui Ne in Vietnam? In the 90s Mui Ne was a relatively isolated Vietnamese town, but the crescent shaped beach that lies south of the village soon began to attract surfers. Now, low rise beach resorts lie adjacent to the traditional fishing village, providing respite on the road for backpackers. Our arrival in Mui Ne
- [Travelling from Bangkok to Cambodia in style](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travelling-from-bangkok-to-cambodia-in-style/) - How to get from Bangkok to Cambodia the easiest way Travelling from Bangkok to the Cambodian border presents a number of options. There are six Thai border crossings, and the Aranyprathet/Poipet one is the most popular - but you have to get there first. After two and a half months on the road, C and
- [Things to do in Chiang Mai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/chiang-mai-the-ultimate-thai-experience/) - Things to do in Chiang Mai Chang-ed out from the Full Moon Party and the buzz of Bangkok, the infamous five travelled North to Chiang Mai on a mission to experience the real Thailand. Authentic (aside from the abundance of 7-11s), sweet and confusing, Chiang Mai is the perfect place to experience everything the land
- [Full Moon Party, Koh Pha Ngan!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/full-moon-party-koh-pha-ngan/) - Six Sh*te shirts, three third degree burns, too many Thai buckets, one party in the jungle, one full moon and some unforgettable experiences... Thailand's most famous party! We arrived in Koh Pha Ngan a few days before July's Full Moon party, and our friend Laura joined us, making us a party of six. Laura is from
- [A Day At Thirsk Races With Great British Racing](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-day-at-thirsk-races-with-great-british-racing/) - I recently had my first ever experience at the races when I was invited to Thirsk Racecourse Summer Cup Day by Great British Racing. It may have been the Summer Cup, but in typical British fashion the rain poured from the sky on the day. Nonetheless, we had a brilliant time. Growing up, I was
- [13 Best Things To Do In Ocho Rios, Jamaica](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-jamaica-authentic-cultural/) - When you plan a holiday to Jamaica, you'll undoubtedly be looking forward to relaxing on the beach or at the hotel pool, rum cocktail in hand, with reggae tunes providing a pleasing backing track to your time in Caribbean paradise. But outside of the hotel resorts, you'll find so many things to do in Ocho
- [Best Restaurants In Tenerife (& Foodie Experiences!)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-to-eat-in-tenerife-local-food/) - Its popularity with British holidaymakers might fool you into thinking Tenerife's gastronomy extends only as far as The Great British Fry Up, but my recent press trip to the Canary island taught me that the restaurants in Tenerife are reason alone to book a trip there. The destination's 3,000 or so restaurants are affordable, meaning
- [Sightseeing in Gran Canaria](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-gran-canaria/) - If you're going on holiday to Gran Canaria, you can expect almost guaranteed sunshine and some truly excellent food. While many holidaymakers are content to lap up the good weather and sangria, more discerning travellers might be wondering what's on offer in terms of sightseeing in Gran Canaria. I recently spent four days in Las
- [How I Make Money As A Travel Blogger](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-make-money-travel-blogging/) - Instagram makes travel blogging look like a dream job and I won't lie, the perks are incredible. But what most wannabe travel influencers fail to realise is that it takes a lot of hard work, determination and a real passion for creating content that appeals to a lot of people to make a travel blog
- [One Day In Dubai: The Best 24 Hour Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/24-hours-in-dubai-the-old-and-new-city/) - Dubai is a popular place for stopovers to break up a long haul flight thanks to its position at the center of the world. It's this prime location that has helped Dubai grow into an economic hub and thriving tourist destination. If you have one day in Dubai to see the sights, you'll be torn between
- [Dubai Old Town: Discover Dubai's Historic Sites](https://www.whileimyoung.com/deira-old-dubai/) - If you're visiting Dubai, the endless tower blocks and record breaking feats of architecture could fool you into thinking the emirate has no discoverable roots. The perfect remedy is to spend a day exploring Dubai's old town, the area around Dubai Creek You'll find that far away from the malls and millionaires; merchants and traders still go
- [Our Dubai Desert Safari With Arabian Adventures](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-desert-safari-arabian-adventures/) - You can't visit Dubai and not go to the desert. A desert safari is an absolute must-do while you're in the UAE but there are an overwhelming number of options and different desert tour companies offer different things. When I moved to Dubai a sunset desert tour was at the top of my to-do list,
- [Apps and Websites Dubai Expats Can't Live Without](https://www.whileimyoung.com/apps-and-websites-dubai-expats-cant-live-without/) - We all use apps and websites to make life that little bit easier and for expats in Dubai, there are a few that become a lifeline in navigating life here. I've put together a list of the must-have apps and the websites you need to know about when you move to Dubai if you want
- [Five Of The Best Rooftop Bars In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/five-of-the-best-rooftop-bars-in-dubai/) - Visiting rooftop bars has become one of the most popular thing to do in a big city, and being a typical cliche twenty-something, I'm definitely partial to a few cocktails with a view. When I was in Hungary last year, I made sure to fit a trip to a sky bar in to my three day
- [17 Cultural Things To Do In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cultural-things-to-do-in-dubai/) - In a city where the population is overwhelmingly foreign, it can seem like Dubai has little claim to its own culture. Sure, it's got mega-malls, five-star restaurants and star-studded nightlife, but what about Dubai's cultural attractions? In fact, this cultural melting pot in the desert has its own unique set of traits and quirks that you won't find
- [The Rules That Get Tourists In Trouble In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/what-you-really-need-to-know-before-you-go-to-dubai/) - I've never spoken negatively about my time living in Dubai on this blog for a few reasons. First, I'd have been arrested, deported or at the very least, my site would have been banned. Second, my Dubai life was a lot of fun. But with sporadic reports of British tourists getting in trouble for seemingly
- [How To Move To Dubai: Everything You Need To Know](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-move-to-dubai/) - I've been back in the UK for quite a while now, but I'm still frequently asked about my time living in Dubai: how to move there, how to find a job in Dubai and what life is like for expats in the sandpit. I'm always happy to share my experiences and having lived in the
- [Where To Stay In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/where-to-stay-in-dubai/) - If you're planning a trip to Dubai, one of the first questions you may have is where is the best area to stay in Dubai? Having lived in Dubai as an expat and played host to visitors and visited a lot of the hotels for brunch or dinner while I was out there, I've got
- [20 Classy Things To Do In Benidorm](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-benidorm/) - For most, Benidorm conjures images of mahogany-hued OAPs on mobility scooters with crepey necks, drunken stag and hen parties with 'Lads/Ladies on tour' emblazoned on their t-shirts and... well, a severe lack of anything authentically Spanish. But there ARE plenty of non-tacky things to do in Benidorm if you know where to look. The Costa Blanca destination
- [Surprise, Surprise, Surprise: Making a Bag of Joy](https://www.whileimyoung.com/surprise-surprise-surprise-making-a-bag-of-joy/) - It has been a tough old year, hasn't it? With Christmas just around the corner, it's the perfect time to put a smile on someone's face with a surprise pick-me-up. What better time to put someone else first and spread joy? Gifting someone else a present can really improve your overall mood as well as
- [Experiencing Cajun Mardi Gras in South Louisiana](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cajun-mardi-gras-in-lafayette-louisiana/) - To say that I had no idea what to expect when I was invited to experience Cajun Mardi Gras in Lafayette, Louisiana on a press trip in February is something of an understatement. Mardi Gras isn't widely celebrated here in the UK but I'd seen the crazy New Orleans parades on Youtube. Would it be
- [TUI BLUE Atlantica Nissaki Beach Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/atlantica-nissaki-beach-hotel-review/) - This is my review of Atlantica Nissaki Beach, a secluded adults-only TUI hotel in Corfu, Greece. Tom and I stayed there for seven nights on an all-inclusive basis for his 30th birthday and we were thoroughly impressed, which in itself is impressive because we certainly had high expectations for our first holiday abroad since late
- [5 Unique Places To Stay In Devon](https://www.whileimyoung.com/unique-places-to-stay-in-devon/) - Are you planning a romantic getaway in Devon and you're looking for something a bit different to the usual hotels and B&Bs? There are a lot of one-of-a-kind accommodation options in the area! Unique hideaways, a holiday letting agency focusing on unique places to stay in hidden corners across the UK, has some excellent accommodations
- [Slaley Hall Hotel and Spa Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/slaley-hall-hotel-and-spa-review/) - North East staycations have quickly become my favourite way to spend my weekends in England. Throwing an overnight bag into the car and driving into the sunset on a Friday afternoon with your loved one with the sole purpose of spending 24 hours eating good food, drinking good wine and focusing on relaxing together: that's
- [Sunday Lunch At Wynyard Hall Hotel, North East England | Restaurant Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sunday-lunch-at-wynyard-hall-hotel-restaurant-review-north-east-england/) - A Sunday well-spent brings a week of content, and what better way to spend the day that should be dedicated to self-care than chowing down on a big roast dinner? It's the only British meal I ever crave when I'm travelling, and I just don't think you can beat a good Sunday lunch. Whether you
- [Best Things To Do In Bristol, The UK's Quirkiest City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-in-bristol-itinerary/) - I hear that two days isn't nearly enough time to see all of Bristol's highlights, but I certainly tried to pack a lot into my weekend in Bristol as a guest of Visit Bristol. From wandering the city's many museums and seeking out its street art hotspots to eating in stylish restaurants and bantering with
- [Down The Rabbit Hole: A Hidden Gem In Durham](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-rabbit-hole-durham-review/) - There's a new nightlife venue in Durham, and it's a little bit different to anything that's opened its doors in the city before. In fact, it's quite different to anyplace you've popped in to for a tipple. The Rabbit Hole appeared recently on Hallgarth Street and with house rules, a speakeasy style entrance and opulent decor,
- [The Ultimate Foodie Weekend in Tees Valley](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tees-valley-food-and-drink/) - The North East of England has a burgeoning local gastronomy scene, and nowhere is this better showcased than in the Tees Valley area. The Enjoy Tees Valley team, who are working to promote the area as an exciting destination, asked if I'd like to share some of Tees Valley's best food and drink with you,
- [A Dog-Friendly Day Out In Tynemouth & Cullercoats](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tynemouth-and-cullercoats-guide/) - While flights abroad are out of the question, I'm enjoying exploring more of my own backyard. I wrote down my North East England bucket list at the beginning of lockdown and we're slowly but surely working our way through it when the weekend rolls around. Last weekend, we took a trip to the North Tyneside
- [Our Post-Lockdown Seaham Hall Duo Spa Day](https://www.whileimyoung.com/seaham-hall-duo-spa-day-review/) - We all know the health and wellness industry has been one of the hardest hit by this year's lockdown, but I for one am very pleased that spas are finally re-opening. Tom and I were invited back to one of my favourite spa hotels in the North East, Seaham Hall, to experience the Duo Spa
- [Visiting Finchale Abbey in Durham](https://www.whileimyoung.com/visiting-finchale-abbey-in-durham/) - Our latest North East day out was a visit to Finchale Abbey in County Durham. Tom had been promising to take me there for a good year and, true to his word, he planned the whole day out. He isn't usually too hot when it comes to dreaming up places for us to go, so
- [Review of Sunday Lunch At Close House, Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/review-of-sunday-lunch-at-close-house-northumberland/) - I live by the idea that a weekend well-spent brings a week of content, and this past weekend held true to that. After a birthday meal in Newcastle for my fiancée followed by a long lie-in, what better way to end the weekend than with a delicious Sunday lunch in glorious Northumberland? I'd been invited
- [COSRX Skincare Review: The Products That Improved My Acne](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cosrx-for-acne-review/) - I don't often write beauty reviews, but I've recently discovered some amazing products that have helped to clear up my acne so I wanted to share them here. If you're struggling with acne at the moment, my review of COSRX skincare products should help. My skincare concerns are numerous and varied. I have combination skin
- [10 Things to do in Ronda, Spain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/ronda-spain-things-to-do/) - Have you ever heard of Ronda? This picturesque city is a must-visit if you're in the Andalusia area, so I've created a guide to the top things to do in Ronda to help you plan the perfect day trip there. Just over an hour from Málaga and an hour from Marbella, this picturesque Spanish mountain
- [The Troodos Mountains, Cyprus: Pretty Villages And Places To Visit](https://www.whileimyoung.com/exploring-the-troodos-mountains-in-cyprus/) - When you think of Cyprus, the Troodos Mountains might not be the first image that comes to mind. You most likely envision sandy beaches and seaside bars serving delicious platters of halloumi alongside cold beer. And you wouldn't be wrong – there's plenty of Cypriot cheese and sunshine to go round in Paphos and the
- [A Letter To My 13 Year Old Self: It Will All Be Fabulous](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-letter-to-my-13-year-old-self/) - I recently found a stack of diaries from my angst-ridden teenage years that rivalled a spotty adolescent male's dirty magazine stash. As I flipped through the gel-pen-scented pages filled with wobbly cursive, I was struck by how anxious and unsatisfied I was aged thirteen. My often inane, sometimes touching accounts of life as a teenaged
- [Cheap, Safe Things To Do In Bogotá, Colombia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cheap-safe-things-to-do-in-bogota-colombia/) - Colombia's gritty capital has many layers, meaning there are plenty of things to do in Bogotá whether you're interested in culture, history, street art or food - even if you're visiting the city on a budget. The many faces of Bogotá are reflected in the city's architecture: the smoky working-class suburbs in the south sit in
- [Inside the world's most beautiful cafe: New York Cafe Budapest](https://www.whileimyoung.com/worlds-most-beautiful-cafe/) - Have you heard about the world's most beautiful cafe? Located in the New York Palace hotel, the New York Cafe in Budapest is widely acknowledged as the most stunning restaurant in Europe – if not the world. During my three days in Budapest, I went for lunch to see it for myself and find out if the
- [North Goa or South Goa? How To Decide!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/north-goa-or-south-goa/) - When we planned our India trip, we knew we wanted to spend time in Goa towards the end of the adventure, but we had no idea whether we should go to North or South Goa. The two parts of Goa have striking contrasts, and people often forget that Goa is a state so just saying
- [Labadee, Haiti: My Royal Caribbean Shore Excursion](https://www.whileimyoung.com/labadee-haiti-excursions-royal-caribbean/) - On my recent press trip on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas in the Western Caribbean, a lot of the fun I had was – surprisingly – on sea days. But we also had three terrific port days during the action-packed seven night cruise. Our first stop was Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s privately owned peninsula on the
- [Things To Do In Whitby, North Yorkshire (& Where To Eat)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/what-to-do-in-whitby-north-yorkshire-weekend-break/) - In my mission to see more of Northern England, I've spent numerous weekends exploring all of the best things to do in Whitby, a thriving seaside town in Yorkshire that is enshrined in gothic history. I love North Yorkshire's rugged landscape and picturesque towns, and Whitby is one of my favourites. On our frequent visits,
- [Why Thailand is the Ultimate Backpacking Destination](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-thailand-is-the-ultimate-backpacking-destination/) - More than seven years ago, when I was still a fresh-faced student, I spent three months backpacking in New Zealand, Australia and South East Asia. It was a trip I'd worked hard for, bartending alongside my degree in order to fund the fun. It was also the trip that changed the course of my life.
- [What To Pack For A Caribbean Cruise](https://www.whileimyoung.com/caribbean-cruise-packing-list/) - Are you stressing about packing for a Caribbean cruise? Use this handy cruise packing checklist to make sure you have everything you need, from cruise essentials to fun things to bring on a cruise. What you need to pack for a Caribbean cruise depends, of course, on how long the cruise you've booked is. Mine
- [Travel Hack Pro Cabin Bag Review: The Best Stylish Women's Carry-On](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travel-hack-pro-cabin-case-review-stylish-carry-on-for-women/) - One of the most annoying things about being a woman who travels (besides having to constantly explain to people that actually, that country is pretty safe), is all the ugly luggage we're saddled with. For years, I've been on a seemingly endless search for a stylish but practical carry-on bag for women; one that looks good
- [Osprey Skimmer 20 Review: What To Look For In A Ladies Backpack](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-backpacks-females-osprey-skimmer-20-review/) - Whether it's a compact day pack for hikes near home like the Osprey Skimmer 20 or a 65 litre beast like the one I wore for three months backpacking around Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Australia and New Zealand; a backpack signals adventure. But if you've ever shopped for a decent women's backpack, you've probably felt confused
- [The Best Things To Do In Seminyak, Bali: Luxury On A Budget](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-seminyak-bali/) - As much as I'd love to, I can't go everywhere. So in the interest of making While I'm Young even more useful, I've invited some other great travel bloggers to write posts about their special places on this website. Here, Chantell from Travel For Your Life shares her guide to the best swanky but cheap things
- [Best Things To Do In Paphos, Cyprus](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-in-paphos-cyprus/) - I recently spent four days in Cyprus on a press trip and was lucky enough to experience some of the best things to do in Paphos and the surrounding areas. If you're planning a holiday there and are wondering what to do in Paphos besides chill at your hotel, my guide to the sunny coastal
- [7 Epic Things To Do In Geiranger, Norwegian Fjords](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-to-do-geiranger-norwegian-fjords/) - Norway's fjords remind visitors exactly why we need to take care of our planet. The breathtaking landscapes are as unique as they are iconic, as mystical as they are atmospheric, and as tranquil as they are dramatic. Nowhere is this better exemplified than in Geiranger, a cruise port known as the jewel in the crown
- [How To Pack Everything In A Carry-On Bag For A Weekend City Break](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-pack-everything-in-a-carry-on-bag-for-a-weekend-city-break/) - Sometimes packing for a quick weekend away can be more stressful than packing for a two-week holiday. For city breaks especially, you can't predict the weather, you'll need both walking shoes – or at least shoes that won't make you want to chop your feet off after a day of sightseeing, and 'nice' shoes. And unless
- [Finding My Autumn Style With M&S' Free Online Personal Stylist Service](https://www.whileimyoung.com/ms-free-online-personal-stylist-service-review/) - What's your biggest style dilemma? Mine is that I don't think about outfits when I'm shopping. Like a magpie, I'm just drawn to individual pieces (generally, the more vibrant and in-your-face, the better), and I don't stop to think about what I'd actually wear that item with. The result is that I'm left with a wardrobe
- [51 Gift Ideas For Girls Who Travel (For Every Budget)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/buy-girl-travels/) - Are you searching for a Christmas gift for a woman who loves to travel? As a passport-carrying Girl Who Travels who knows what fellow adventuresses want, I've done the hard work for you! We all know a girl who travels. A girl who's never there – or if she is – she's dreaming about being
- [How To Do A DIY Facial At Home](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-do-a-diy-facial-at-home/) - During the autumn nights at home this year, I've revisited a beauty practice I used to love when I was a teenager: facial steaming. I would carry out elaborate DIY facials at home – often using ingredients from my mum's fridge as 'natural home beauty treatments'. Thankfully, these days I can afford slightly more sophisticated
- [What To Do In Phnom Penh, Cambodia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-in-phnom-penh/) - The largest city in Cambodia, Phnom Penh's metropolitan punch positions it a world away from the peaceful, lush greenery that surrounds Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. Most of the things to do in Phnom Penh revolve around the destination's history, it being inextricable from the city's present state. In Phnom Phen, you will experience how Cambodia's economic hub is
- [15 Best Travel TV Shows To Watch Now](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-travel-tv-shows-to-watch/) - When travel is off the cards for a while, the itchy-footed among us have to get creative in order to get our fix of foreign lands and unknown cultures. What easier way to satiate that rumble of wanderlust in your (probably) bloated belly than to sprawl on the couch watching some of the best travel
- [Female Hiking Trip Packing List - What To Pack For A Hiking Holiday: A Guide For Females](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-female-hiking-gear-bags-boots/) - So you're going on a hiking trip. Amazing! When I was younger I wouldn't have believed hiking would be something I'd be interested in, but now that I'm in my twenties and usually confined to a desk chair, staring at my laptop screen, I love nothing more than getting outdoors, being active and feeling the
- [Tips For Your First Solo Trip Abroad](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tips-for-your-first-solo-trip-abroad/) - Solo travel. It sounds scary, doesn't it? Booking your first solo trip abroad can feel daunting - I mean, I was pretty terrified before my first time. The reality is that while travelling on your own can be challenging, it's also massively rewarding and I can guarantee that you'll have a completely different experience than
- [Visiting Hvar in Croatia? Find The Best Things To Do On The Adriatic Party Island](https://www.whileimyoung.com/reasons-to-visit-hvar-croatia/) - Taking pride of place as the jewel in the crown of a cluster of Croatian islands including Brač, Vis and Korčula, Hvar is undoubtedly one of the best places to holiday in Croatia. So what is there to do in Hvar that attracts so many travellers? The party island of Hvar has become a highlight on every international socialite's calendar,
- [11 Best Day Trips From Benidorm](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-authentic-spanish-villages-you-need-to-visit-near-benidorm/) - If you're on holiday in the Brits abroad haven, why not take a day trip from Benidorm to explore what else the area has to offer? Read on to find out how to visit the beautiful Guadalest Valley from Benidorm and discover some more amazing places to visit near Benidorm. When I went to Benidorm I
- [10 Of The Best European City Break Destinations](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-european-city-break-destinations/) - How do you choose where to go next? I'm all too aware that there's a whole world out there to explore, and so little time to see it all in - and I know I'm not the only one who internally freaks out about this. Choosing just one place to spend your hard-earned holiday savings
- [What I Wore In Croatia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/croatia-holiday-outfits-summer/) - I'm back from Croatia! I'm currently working my way through the mountains of laundry and emails that come at the dreaded end of every holiday. I didn't think I'd caught much of a tan in Croatia but in the cold light of a rainy day in Sunderland, I'm actually looking super tangoed! I took a
- [What I Wore In Spain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/what-i-wore-in-spain/) - Is there anything better than shopping for your summer holiday clothes? I like to use a holiday in the sun as an excuse to wear everything in my wardrobe that the British weather doesn't allow for: bright prints, tiny shorts and flowing fabrics; now is your time to shine my lovelies. I've had a lot
- [The Best Restaurants In Benidorm For A Fancy Meal](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-spanish-restaurants-benidorm/) - Too many people go on holiday to Benidorm and eat exclusively at their hotel. And I get it – a lot of people pay for all-inclusive because they're on a strict budget and want a holiday in the sun at minimal cost. Others though, are just lazy. Why not venture out to some of Benidorm's
- [Ridiculous Pool Inflatables You Need For Your Summer Holiday](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-pool-inflatables-for-your-summer-holiday/) - Shay Mitchell posed on one at Coachella, the Jenners love them, Emily Ratajkowski set the bar and Tay Swift made them a summer holiday must-have. Ridiculous pool inflatables are a thing and you need one for your next vaycay. You, in a bikini, with a tan, in a pool, on a giant blow up pool
- [8 Ways Influencers Can Help The Fight Against Racism](https://www.whileimyoung.com/8-ways-influencers-can-help-the-fight-against-racism/) - The internet has been a crazy place lately. I think we can all agree that 2020 is transforming the world and that now that some of the abhorrent parts of it have been highlighted, good things are coming. As an online influencer, I've spent a lot of time thinking about how I can show my
- [My 7 Step Evening Skincare Routine](https://www.whileimyoung.com/7-step-evening-skincare-routine/) - One of the areas in life where I feel I have my sh*t together the most is my skincare routine. Every single night, I spend five minutes or so taking care of my largest organ. Old age called, and I told it that it can keep its haggard skin and wrinkles. My days of flopping
- [How To Save Money While Backpacking In Australia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-save-money-travelling-australia-backpacking-road-trip-tips/) - Australia is an expensive county to travel in, there's no doubt about that. With a night in one of Sydney's hostels averaging 30AUD and dinner in a cheap restaurant costing about 20AUD, not to mention a local beer coming in at around 8AUD, you can't escape the fact that Australia isn't the most budget-friendly destination. But
- [Random (Positive) Observations From A Week In Mexico City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/mexico-city-first-impressions/) - I spent just under a week in Mexico City recently and left feeling a bit uneasy. Why? I left feeling even more perplexed about the city than I was before I arrived. As a travel blogger, it's my job to share stories and advice about the places I visit. Whether that's full destination guides, day-by-day
- [Silver Linings In Cozumel, Mexico](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cozumel-mexico-things-to-do-bad-weather/) - What do you do when travel plans go awry? The weather ruined our plans in Cozumel, Mexico, and my friends and I were left trying to find something to do in Cozumel that isn't water-based. We'd planned to spend the whole day snorkelling around some of Cozumel's best underwater spots. Did you know that the
- [Xochimilco, The Most Fun Place To Spend Your Weekend In Mexico City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/xochimilco-best-things-to-do-in-mexico-city/) - When I arrived in Mexico City and shared my location with my Instagram followers, my DMs were immediately flooded with in-the-know travellers urging me to visit Xochimilco. And I'm so glad I went! A day trip to Xochimilco in Mexico City So, what is Xochimilco? And umm, how do I pronounce it? Watch my Mexico
- [My favourite beauty products](https://www.whileimyoung.com/my-favourite-beauty-products/) - I know what you're thinking. Dannielle, who do you think you are? You're a travel blogger, not a beauty YouTuber. Why should I take any notice of what you have to say about looking good? The thing is, us frequent travellers are pretty good at getting our sh*t together and making ourselves look presentable; even after
- [4 Places You Can't Miss In East Coast Australia And Why](https://www.whileimyoung.com/essential-stops-east-coast-australia-road-trip/) - The Great Aussie Road Trip. It's on every young backpacker's bucket list, and it's easy to see why. Australia has everything you could possibly want from a summer of discovery: gorgeous weather, laid-back locals and all of the goon. (Don't know what goon is yet? One night in an Aussie hostel will change that.) Oh, and everyone
- [What To Do In Málaga, Costa Del Sol: 24 Hour Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/one-day-in-malaga-costa-del-sol-itinerary/) - Málaga is a city that has mastered the art of self-reinvention, having transformed from a sleepy port to the biggest cultural hub in southern Spain in the past ten years. Today, there are so many things to see in Málaga for discerning travellers, especially if you're interested in art. Exquisite architecture, delicious food and warm,
- [Tapas Revolution Newcastle Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tapas-revolution-newcastle-review/) - When I was invited to review dinner at Tapas Revolution in Newcastle, it brought on an immediate craving for gambas, sangria and churros. It also presented a rare opportunity to practice my Spanish - I'm off to Mexico and then Colombia next week so I could use a refresher course! I absolutely love Spanish culture,
- [12 Things To Buy From Lush This Christmas](https://www.whileimyoung.com/12-things-to-buy-from-lush-this-christmas/) - The festive season is (almost) upon us and that means one thing for glitter queens and snow fairies everywhere: new, Christmassy products from Lush to get excited about! I popped in to Lush Newcastle to have a go at making my own glittery bubble bar (spoiler: it was messy) and chat with the ever-effervescent staff
- [Things to do in Ghent, Belgium: A Two Day Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-ghent-belgium-complete-itinerary/) - If you're travelling in Belgium or looking for a cool city break alternative to Brussels, why not check out Ghent, the capital of the East Flanders province? There are lots of unique things to do in Ghent and the fairytale-like city is easy to see on a short break. I was in Ghent for two
- [Where To Stay In Liverpool For Luxury and Location: Titanic Hotel Liverpool Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/titanic-hotel-liverpool-review/) - This weekend we were in Liverpool to celebrate my Dad's 60th and while I usually stay with family when I'm in the city, this was a fleeting visit with boyfriend in tow so we needed a good hotel to stay in. It had to be well-placed for the city centre and for reaching my family
- [Golf And Hiking In Vorarlberg, Austria's Summer Haven](https://www.whileimyoung.com/golf-and-hiking-in-vorarlberg-austria/) - Vorarlberg is best known for its incredible ski slopes, but Austria's westernmost region is also a lovely place to visit in the summer months. I'm not into winter sports (read: I'm a giant wuss), so I visited Vorarlberg in August to explore the area's fantastic hiking trails and world-class golf courses. Yup, I am now
- [15 Things To Do In Basel, Switzerland & Best Day Trips](https://www.whileimyoung.com/basel-switzerland-things-to-do/) - Basel is a pocket-sized Swiss metropolis where locals commute to work with a swim in the River Rhine during the warmer months. No, seriously. They really do, and they don't mind if visitors join in! In this teeny city, you can saunter from urban cityscape to idyllic residential streets in just moments.Yet Basel doesn't seem
- [Date Night At Malmaison Newcastle: The Most Stylish Hotel In The Toon](https://www.whileimyoung.com/date-night-at-malmaison-newcastle/) - I'm a big fan of the Malmaison boutique hotels. I love that they combine their own quirky brand personality with little local touches from the city you're staying in, and that the beds are a dream to sleep in. Staying at the Newcastle Malmaison this past weekend was a bit nostalgic for me because they're
- [The Most Instagram Worthy Hotel In Edinburgh: Eden Locke ](https://www.whileimyoung.com/instagram-hotel-edinburgh-eden-locke-review/) - I jump at any chance to revisit my beloved university city, so when I was invited up to Edinburgh to take a look at the newly opened Eden Locke Hotel, I didn't have to be asked twice. I lived in Edinburgh for four years and only got to stay at a hotel overnight once, so
- [A Peruvian Bottomless Brunch At COYA London](https://www.whileimyoung.com/bottomless-brunch-at-coya-london-review/) - On our last trip to London, we wanted something a bit special for brunch. We were there for a night out with all of our super successful London Friends and were cradling slightly sore heads when we stumbled in to COYA, a Peruvian restaurant in Mayfair, for bottomless brunch. After all, what better way to
- [Our Stay At La Suite West In London](https://www.whileimyoung.com/la-suite-west-hotel-london-review/) - I was in London recently for a reunion with my university friends and Tom and I stayed at La Suite West, a minimalist boutique hotel near Hyde Park, on Inverness Terrace. It made for the perfect landing pad to explore London, and we had a great weekend playing crazy golf in Brick Lane, drinking cocktails
- [Our Stay At The Belfry Hotel: Dinner, Golf and Spa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-belfry-hotel-review-restaurants-golf-spa/) - If you're in to golf, you'll have heard of The Belfry, a luxury hotel and golf resort near Birmingham in the UK. Tom and I stayed for one night last weekend and enjoyed a beautiful three-course dinner in the Ryder Grill, had a golf lesson at The Academy and finished our getaway with the Belfry Spa's
- [Date Night At Turtle Bay Newcastle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/date-night-at-turtle-bay-newcastle/) - I am dying to go to Jamaica. Everything about the country just absolutely fascinates me; the colours, the tropical climate, the people and the culture. And of course, the food. I'll be honest though, my experience with Jamaican cuisine begins and ends with some disappointing home experiments: a bit of jerk seasoning on my grilled chicken. In
- [How To Have A Perfect Day In Barletta, Puglia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/one-day-in-barletta-things-to-do/) - Barletta is one of those cities that doesn't feel like a city. In fact, spending a day in Barletta kind of feels like you've fallen down a rabbit hole in a carbonara-induced stupor and stepped back in time, to an era where old ladies in overalls lean over laundry-laden balconies surveying the sandstone, curving streets
- [11 Beautiful Buildings That Will Make You Fall For Bucharest](https://www.whileimyoung.com/bucharests-most-beautiful-buildings/) - My Dad always told me to "look up" when I'm in an unfamiliar city and I guess his advice has influenced how I experience new destinations because I'm always gazing at the rooftops instead of watching my step. One of the things that struck me when I was in Bucharest for a weekend recently was
- [Mysterious Margherita Di Savoia, Italy: The Ultimate Guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/margherita-di-savoia-puglia-guide/) - When I started planning my trip to Margherita Di Savoia in southern Italy's Puglia region, I really struggled to find any information about the destination online. I wanted to do some research before I arrived in Italy, but it turned out there's nothing out there telling people how amazing Margherita Di Savoia is! This is probably because the town is
- [A Girly Spa Day At Seaham Hall's Serenity Spa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-girly-spa-day-at-seaham-halls-serenity-spa/) - To celebrate the British Summer's arrival last week, Tom's cousin Shannon and I threw on our swimsuits and went to spend the day at the Serenity Spa at Seaham Hall Hotel. Tom and I stayed at Seaham Hall before I moved to Dubai and it's probably my favourite spa hotel in the North East, so I
- [Bucharest's Beautiful Abandoned Buildings](https://www.whileimyoung.com/bucharests-beautiful-abandoned-buildings/) - Bucharest is filled with abandoned buildings, and they stand as relics of the aftermath of communism in Romania. Tending to these 19th and early 20th Century buildings wasn't prioritised by the Romanian government once communism collapsed and the owners stopped viewing them as profitable so they let nature, people living on the streets and vandals take
- [Why You Need To Visit Bucharest For A European City Break](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-you-need-to-visit-bucharest-europe-city-break/) - Bucharest isn't the first place most people would consider for a European city break, and the locals know it. That's why a bunch of Romanians got together recently and invited around 100 of the world's top travel content creators to #ExperienceBucharest and find out why everyone needs to add Romania's capital city to their travel bucket
- [A Foodie Day Out In York With Tours In A Dish](https://www.whileimyoung.com/york-food-drink-tours-in-a-dish-review/) - I may have spent the past year eating my way around the world, but now that I'm back in England I'm determined to see more of the country and find the best foodie spots close to home. York is one of my favourite English cities, so when I was invited to experience a new guided York
- [Two Days In Lebanon: Things To Do In Beirut And Beyond](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-in-lebanon-beirut-surrounding-areas-itinerary/) - When I spent two days in Lebanon with my friend, I arrived with zero expectations. Our short trip showed me there are lots of unique things to do in Beirut and plenty of interesting places to visit in Lebanon outside of its capital city. Before visiting Lebanon for a short break from Dubai, I didn't know much
- [Hotel RIU Sri Lanka Ahungalla review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/hotel-riu-sri-lanka-ahungalla-review/) - Newly opened on the rugged shores of Ahungalla beach, Hotel RIU is one of Sri Lanka’s first five star all-inclusive accommodation options. It’s also the first of the Spanish hotel chain’s resorts to open in Asia. Tom and I stayed for nine nights in September, when the hotel was brand spanking new and still finding its feet
- [11 National Dishes To Try Before You Die](https://www.whileimyoung.com/11-national-dishes-to-try-before-you-die/) - When we think about our travel bucket list, we tend to focus on ticking off the most iconic experiences in each country we visit, like seeing the pyramids in Egypt or snorkelling in Australia's Great Barrier Reef. But have you thought about the most authentic way to get a taste of another culture? For me,
- [Halong Bay: A Beautiful Tourist Trap](https://www.whileimyoung.com/halong-bay-cruise/) - Halong Bay is the main sight that draws tourists to Vietnam, and for good reason. Consisting of some 2000 islets scattered around the Bay of Tonkin, its name translates to 'where the dragon descends in to the sea', and your first glimpse of the World Heritage site will make you understand why. Is Halong Bay
- [Amsterdam In A Weekend: The Perfect Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-weekend-in-amsterdam/) - Amsterdam makes an excellent city break destination if you're travelling from the UK because of its proximity and comparative cheapness. It's possible to 'do' Amsterdam in a weekend thanks to its compact size, but just 48 hours in Amsterdam will have you itching to return. The city offers a wealth of things to do, no
- [Cycling Around Angkor Wat Temples](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cycling-around-angkor-wat/) - If Angkor Wat is on your Cambodia itinerary, it's likely you will be using Siem Reap as a landing pad for your trip to the UNESCO Heritage site, and there are a few different ways you can get from Siem Reap to the Angkor temples. On our first day in the area, we hired a guide to
- [Revisiting Carnival By Tresind: New Menu, New Adventures](https://www.whileimyoung.com/revisiting-carnival-by-tresind-new-menu/) - When I was invited back to Carnival by Tresind to sample their new season menu, I didn't have to be asked twice. My last meal at this DIFC restaurant gave me something to talk about for weeks afterwards, and I knew a second visit would fuel awkward silences and forced chit chat in the lifts
- [My New York Bucket List](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-new-york/) - New York, New York. It's number one on half of the world's travel bucket list (probably) and one of the most popular tourist destinations ever. Thanks to the movies, NYC is a concrete jungle we'd all love to explore and it's one of the few cities you could never tire of. Here are some things
- [How To Throw The Best Yacht Party In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-yacht-party-in-dubai/) - One of the major perks to living in Dubai is being able to casually charter a luxury yacht for a few hours at the weekend and sail around the Gulf. I've done it a few times in the past year, and it's always a guaranteed good day out. This weekend, I finally planned and executed
- [Hiking in Abel Tasman National Park](https://www.whileimyoung.com/hiking-in-abel-tasman-national-park/) - A one-day hike in stunning Abel Tasman National Park, South Island New Zealand New Zealand is mind-blowing-ly beautiful, there's no arguing with that. Scenic drives around the south island are just as enthralling as vigorous hikes, and road tripping around the glacial peaks in a camper van is basically freedom epitomised. I won't lure you in
- [Travel Blogs You Should Be Reading](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travel-blogs-you-should-be-reading/) - There are countless lists out there featuring the best travel blogs. Here's my contribution. These travel blogs are the ones I think every world-hungry, money-weary twenty something should be reading. Some of the travel bloggers featured on this list are relatively new, or not getting the attention they deserve, in my humble opinion. Others are
- [I'm moving to Dubai!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/im-moving-to-dubai/) - No really, I'm actually moving to Dubai I still can't quite believe I'm typing these words. But yeah, my life and my blog are about to get a Middle Eastern theme because I'M MOVING TO DUBAI. If you follow me on Twitter or you're a fan of my Facebook page, you'll know I was being
- [What To Do In Kaikoura: Kayaking And More](https://www.whileimyoung.com/kayaking-in-kaikoura/) - Kaikoura is the most northern district in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's south island and travellers go for the fantastic whale and dolphin spotting opportunities. But what is there to do in Kaikoura at that time of year when the marine life migrates? Read on to find out about my embarrassing experience on the
- [Queenstown in Winter](https://www.whileimyoung.com/queenstown/) - Every New Zealand road trip has to include the adrenalin capital, Queenstown We'd been bussing around New Zealand's south island for a week or so when we wove around the mountains and arrived in Queenstown. Our experience of New Zealand so far had centered around the great outdoors: clean living and exercise went hand in hand
- [What To Do In Lake Tekapo, New Zealand's Most Beautiful Town](https://www.whileimyoung.com/lake-tekapo/) - Lake Tekapo was our second destination during a road trip around New Zealand's south island, and it blew me away. The scenery, the tranquility and the sleepy vibe make Tekapo a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get away from it all. Things to do in Lake Tekapo Getting there Fully recovered from jet lag and
- [16 Ways To Travel Virtually](https://www.whileimyoung.com/virtual-travel-apps-tours/) - Is your wanderlust consuming you, but you can't travel right now? Whether it's down to a lack of funds, a stingy holiday allowance at work or erm... a global pandemic, most of us can't jet off as often as we'd like to. But this is 2020, so we CAN indulge in a spot of virtual
- [11 Travel Bloggers Share Their Romantic Honeymoons](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-romantic-honeymoon-destinations-travel-experts/) - I'm in the midst of planning a destination wedding in Italy and now that it's all booked, my thoughts are finally turning to our honeymoon. I've trawled lists of the best honeymoon destinations in the world but I wanted some advice from people in the know – so I thought who better to ask than fellow
- [One Day In Essaouira: A Relaxing Day Trip From Marrakech](https://www.whileimyoung.com/essaouira-things-to-do-one-day-guide-daytrip/) - While I was in Marrakech recently, I fell in love with the red city's colours, culture and buzz. But after a few days in its grips, I was keen to escape and see some of Morocco's coastline, so my friends and I hired a driver and planned a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira. We
- [My Personal Shopping Experience At Selfridges In Manchester](https://www.whileimyoung.com/personal-shopping-experience-selfridges-manchester-review/) - When I was in Manchester recently, I was invited to experience the Personal Shopping experience at Selfridges Exchange Square. Feeling like Victoria from Inthefrow or some other equally glam fashion blogger (I wish), I gladly accepted and looked forward to an afternoon of faking fancy as one of Selfridges 'most discerning customers'. Read: I wandered
- [Why Counting Countries Doesn't Make You A Shallow Traveller](https://www.whileimyoung.com/counting-countries-argument/) - Do you count countries? I do and I'm not ashamed to admit it - but it seems some people are. There's a certain snobbery in the travel community that suggests counting countries is a shallow way of bragging about how much you've seen of the world. And while I too stifle a yawn when people
- [17 Weird Things That Happen When You Start Working From Home](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-that-happen-when-you-start-working-from-home/) - Working from home isn't for everybody, but it's definitely for me. If you hate people, love your PJs and have a job that you can basically do from anywhere, working from home is an absolute dream. In fact, some people fantasise about it for years before they actually leave the public workplace and set up shop
- [How To Become A Full-Time Travel Blogger](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-i-quit-my-job-and-became-a-full-time-travel-blogger/) - There are a million articles like this one. Quitting the 9 to 5 life to live more freely and make money doing something you truly love is the modern day fairytale, and everyone is interested in how full time bloggers manage to do it. In fact, this is my most requested blog post, so I
- [9 Places To Experience Local Culture In Indonesia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/7-places-to-experience-local-culture-in-bali/) - A trip to the Island of the Gods, or Bali as it's more commonly known, isn't complete without experiencing its spiritual and cultural attractions. While loud and lairy backpackers are best sticking to Kuta, there are plenty of historical UNESCO sites in other parts of this Indonesian archipelago that lure travellers looking for a more
- [24 Of The World's Most Instagram Friendly Hotels](https://www.whileimyoung.com/worlds-most-instagram-worthy-hotels/) - For better or worse, social media has changed the way we travel, and Instagram is one of the main culprits. Twenty somethings from every corner of the globe are going forth and wandering... towards the most Instagram friendly hotels, resorts and cityscapes. Have you ever booked a hotel based solely on its instagrammableness factor? (Yep,
- [Tips For Surviving Your First Brunch In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tips-surviving-first-brunch-dubai/) - Dubai redefines the meaning of brunch, and you have to attend one to truly understand how. Forget your standard Eggs Benny and a cheeky Bloody Mary; Dubai's famous brunches take the mid-morning meal to a new level, with glammed-up expats flocking to the city's five-star hotels every Friday to participate in the biggest social event of
- [Living In Dubai As A Woman: What's To Love?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-female-expats-love-dubai/) - There are hundred of reasons so many young women choose Dubai as their playground in their twenties and thirties, and you've probably heard the main attractions before. Why would a woman want to live in Dubai? Tax-free earnings, unadulterated luxury at weekends and a year-round tan are frequently reeled off as reasons to move to Dubai,
- [First World Dubai Problems All Expats Will Recognise](https://www.whileimyoung.com/first-world-dubai-problems-all-expats-will-recognise/) - Us Dubai expats have it pretty easy. We live a pampered life, flitting from restaurant to nightclub to the poolside; never cleaning up after ourselves and having our pick of some of the best restaurant, nightlife and entertainment venues in the world. We really don't have much to complain about. However, you might just overhear us moaning
- [Brunch at Karma Kafe in Souk Al Bahar](https://www.whileimyoung.com/brunch-at-karma-kafe/) - At the weekend I met some old and new friends for brunch at Karma Kafe in Souk Al Bahar. I'm a little ashamed to admit that it was the first time I'd stepped foot inside Souk Al Bahar since my first visit to Dubai, when I had 24 hours to explore and make up my
- [31 Crazy Things New Dubai Expats Quickly Adapt To](https://www.whileimyoung.com/funny-things-about-dubai/) - When you plan a move to Dubai, you prepare yourself for the heat, the expense and the culture shock. But is there really any way to know exactly what to expect? It's the unique cultural quirks that often cause the greatest pain and occasional laughs for newbies in Dubai. By the time I hit my
- [One day in Kowloon, Hong Kong: Dim Sum and Markets](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-kowloon-hong-kong/) - After exploring Hong Kong Island on my first day in Hong Kong, I crossed the water to Kowloon to spend a day discovering what mainland Hong Kong had to offer. What I found was the world's cheapest Michelin starred dim sum and some serious brand name bargains at Hong Kong's myriad of markets. I was on a mission to
- [How To Move Abroad Alone When You're A Big Baby](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-handle-anxiety-abroad/) - There are so many of us whose dreams are consumed with fantasies of moving abroad or travelling the world with nothing but a backpack, but we suppress our curiosity and stick to what we know. "I'd love to do that", we sigh at those #travel pics on Instagram, and look back at the TV. Good for others, but
- [UK City Break Ideas](https://www.whileimyoung.com/uk-city-break-ideas/) - Best of British: the UK city break The start of a new year means it's time to hash out our travel plans for the coming 12 months, and as I prepare to move to Dubai in a few weeks (eek!), I've been thinking about the things I'll miss about Britain. Having been brought up on
- [A Stay At Jesmond Dene House, One Of Newcastle's Most Popular Hotels](https://www.whileimyoung.com/jesmond-dene-house-hotel-review/) - I always prefer to stay at independent boutique hotels because they inevitably have more character, and Jesmond Dene House in Newcastle had been on my wish list since I moved to the North East. When you find out that a hotel is a listed building, your expectations soar - and this historic hotel certainly didn't
- [Two Days In Berlin On A Budget](https://www.whileimyoung.com/two-days-in-berlin/) - How to spend two days in Berlin on the cheap If you're going to be in Berlin for two days and want to see its best bits without spending a fortune, walking tours are the best way to see the city's countless historic sights as well as explore its little-known cultural gems in a short space of time. In
- [Living with Boys: The Best And Worst Bits](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-girly-girls-guide-to-living-with-boys/) - I've been living with three boys for over three months now and there are a few things I've learned during my initiation period that I'd like to share. Though I've lived in mixed sex student flats before, there's something different about being the only rose among thorns. Not only am I outnumbered by boys, I'm
- [21 Cute At Home Date Night Ideas](https://www.whileimyoung.com/at-home-date-night-ideas/) - We're all stuck indoors at the moment, and we all know it's for the best. If our part in fighting this thing is just sitting at home in safety, we should consider ourselves very lucky – and forever grateful to our nation's key workers, of course. For a lot of us, this means spending much more
- [Street Art And Cafe Culture In Melbourne And A Day-trip To St Kilda](https://www.whileimyoung.com/melbourne-st-kilda/) - We finally arrived in our last Australian destination from Sydney, and the drop in temperature showed how far south we had travelled from the sands of Airlie Beach. We had planned this trip to visit our uni friends, Charlotte, Sarah, and Dan, who had been studying in Melbourne for third year, but decided that while we were in
- [Why Camping On Fraser Island Is The Ultimate Aussie Experience](https://www.whileimyoung.com/camping-on-fraser-island/) - Following our Whitsundays sailing experience, the next barefoot adventure for C and I was a two night 4WD tour and camping on Fraser Island in an Aboriginal camp site. The largest sand island in the world stretches for over 123 kms of unspoiled scenery, and boasts tranquil freshwater lakes and numerous other natural attractions. It's
- [What To See And Do In Christchurch](https://www.whileimyoung.com/christchurch-in-recovery/) - Christchurch was the first destination on my self-planned bus tour of New Zealand's South Island back in the summer of 2013. It was the furthest I could possibly be from home and a destination I'd always wondered about. Tired and worn out from our 48 hour journey, my travel buddy C and I still managed
- [My Year In Review: 2018](https://www.whileimyoung.com/my-year-in-review-2018/) - I know it's terribly self-indulgent, but everyone else is doing it and I'm easily led when it comes to blogging trends (and booking flights and anything that involves gin) so I thought I'd write a little round-up post for 2018. Where I went, what I achieved, what I posted on While I'm Young; that kinda thing.
- [The Best Hair Products And Haircare Tips For Girls Who Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-hair-products-for-travel/) - Sponsored When I was younger, I spent three months backpacking around South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand with messy hair and not a care in the world. It was the most alive I've ever felt and I treasure the memories but when I look back at the pictures, I cringe at the state of
- [An Autumn Weekend In Cheshire](https://www.whileimyoung.com/autumn-city-break-cheshire/) - Tom and I recently drove down to Cheshire for a weekend break, where we enjoyed making the most of both the country and the city. We found plenty of romantic things to do in Chester and the surrounding areas - including a restaurant we'll remember for a long time! We stayed at a charming little
- [Raithwaite Sandsend Review: Our First Hotel Stay Post-Lockdown!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/raithwaite-estate-review-our-romantic-whitby-weekend/) - Having fallen in love with its serene ambience when I reviewed Raithwaite Sandsend a few years back, I was thrilled to be invited back to experience the hotel's version of the 'new normal' as it re-opens its doors after lockdown. Raithwaite Sandsend is a majestic coastal retreat in North Yorkshire with two hotels, quaint private stone
- [Date Night And An Affair With The Colour Red In Newcastle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/date-night-affair-colour-red-newcastle/) - Our most recent date night took us to Newcastle, where we stayed at Roomzzz Aparthotel in the city center. It had been a long week for both of us - Tom works like a maniac and I had just arrived back in England from a press trip in Amsterdam that morning - so we spent
- [Roomzzz Newcastle Review: An Aparthotel In The Toon](https://www.whileimyoung.com/roomzzz-newcastle-review/) - This past weekend, I was invited to review Roomzzz, an aparthotel in Newcastle City Centre. Having just landed back in England from Amsterdam, I whisked Tom away (insofar as you can 'whisk' someone from Sunderland to Newcastle), for a long overdue date night in The Toon. We had such a lovely time! Here's our full
- [Finding My Inner Confidence](https://www.whileimyoung.com/finding-inner-confidence/) - What does confidence mean to you? To me, it's being aware of your flaws and not letting them rule your life. It's being able to walk into a room free of any fear that the people inside it won't like you, and it's being comfortable with who you are. I've written before about how getting
- [10 Things To Do In Leuven, The Most Unique City In Belgium](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-leuven-belgium/) - Already 'done' Brussels and keen to explore more of Belgium? Here's why Leuven should be the next Belgian city you visit – and a list of the top things to do in Leuven. Just fifteen minutes from Brussels by train, Leuven is worth visiting if you want to see another side of Belgium. The university city
- [Things to do in Ahungalla, Sri Lanka](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-ahungalla-sri-lanka/) - Whether you’re travelling around Sri Lanka or relaxing at a luxury resort in the area, there are plenty of things to do in and around Ahungalla. The area is home to a couple of luxury resorts and while you should totally enjoy your time at the pool, you shouldn't miss the charms of the coastal
- [Two Perfect Days in Vienna, Austria: My Solo Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/solo-weekend-in-vienna/) - I spent two days in Vienna recently and I still can't believe how much sightseeing I managed to do in such short amount of time. Despite my Vienna itinerary suggesting a crazy dash across the city; from the top of a cathedral tower to wine taverns in the suburbs, I actually had a wonderfully laid-back weekend in
- [Three days in Budapest: a Complete Budapest Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/three-days-in-budapest-itinerary/) - The city had been on my bucket list for a long time, so spending three days in Budapest was a bit of a dream come true for me. The Hungarian capital, with its cheap drinks and spindly little balconies adorning intricately carved buildings, offers travellers everything they could want from a European city break: bucketloads of
- [Moving to Dubai: the first three days](https://www.whileimyoung.com/first-days-dubai/) - I'm here! I did it, I moved abroad. Sorry, just a shout out to ten-year-old me, who wondered if she'd ever see the world. You can and you will baby D! Anyway, it's the end of day three in Dubai and I thought I'd share my adventures thus far. Could be useful if you're planning your
- [V&A Waterfront And Robben Island In A Day](https://www.whileimyoung.com/day-one-in-cape-town-va-waterfront-and-robben-island/) - If you follow me on social media, you'll know that I recently spent three wonderful days in Cape Town. It's taken me a while to share what I got up to because there's just SO much to tell, so I've broken my Cape Town guide into a day-by-day itinerary for you to copy if you
- [Dinner At Six Restaurant, The Baltic Gateshead](https://www.whileimyoung.com/review-six-restaurant-baltic-gateshead/) - Six Restaurant, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art's sixth floor eatery, is recognised across the North East for its sustainable local dishes and prime location. I was invited to sample the Lunch & Early Evening Menu at Six Restaurant, so Tom and I scheduled our next foodie date night with glee. Any excuse to put a nice
- [Two Days In Rome Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/rome-two-days-itinerary/) - Have you ever built a place up in your head so much that you're nervous about actually going, because the reality could never live up to what you've conjured in your imagination? That was Italy for me, but then I spent two days in Rome and I have to tell you: la dolce vita doesn't disappoint. A weekend
- [My Dream US Road Trip](https://www.whileimyoung.com/my-dream-road-trip/) - Where would your bucket list US road trip take you? My American Dream focuses on the West Coast and southern states. Read on to find out why I'd give New York a miss and what's stopping me hitting the road (Jack). The ultimate American road trip I'm about to share a secret I'm kind of ashamed to
- [A week of ups & downs - but mostly ups!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-week-of-ups-downs-but-mostly-ups/) - The good news Last week I was thrilled to find out that While I'm Young has been shortlisted for Best Travel Blog in the North East Blogger Awards. There are just two other (fabulous) blogs in the running to be crowned best travel blog, and I'm very proud to feature on the list of top North East
- [Best Beauty Advent Calendars of 2020](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-beauty-advent-calendars/) - Calling all beauty junkies! Why wait for Christmas to treat yourself? Instead of hoping Santa leaves you what you're lusting after under the tree this year, buy yourself a beauty advent calendar so you get a small, luxurious gift every day of December! Buying a beauty advent calendar is a great way of trialling some
- [The 6 Best Beauty Products I Discovered This Year](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-beauty-products-2020/) - I've always been a hoarder when it comes to skincare products and haircare. I take great delight in opening a new product and cautiously using it for the first time, wondering if this will be the thing that solves all of my skincare concerns / hair woes / other beauty issues. I get sent some
- [The Best Christmas Gifts Under £30 For Him & Her](https://www.whileimyoung.com/christmas-gifts-under-30-pounds/) - Many of us have had to tighten the purse strings this year, and I know I'm not alone in wanting to make sure I don't overspend on Christmas presents. I've never been one for buying gifts for a huge list of extended family, colleagues and their dogs; and for Christmas 2020 I'm keeping my gifting
- [Getting My Winter Glow On (Inside And Out) | AD](https://www.whileimyoung.com/getting-my-winter-glow-on-inside-and-out/) - This is a paid advertorial with Sanctuary Spa While the rest of the UK pees their pants about Christmas cups, German markets and cosy nights in, I'm among the pocket of society who dreads the colder months. Dark nights, visible-breath mornings and a distinct lack of beer garden frolicking make Dee a dull girl, and
- [19 Experience Gift Ideas For Her](https://www.whileimyoung.com/experience-gift-ideas-for-her-uk/) - From experience gifts for women covering everything from ladies days out to adventurous gifts for her, to unusual gift voucher ideas for people who prefer experiences over material things; this list will help you say no to stuff this Christmas. Instead, why not bestow the women in your life with gifts they can truly savour?
- [Sunset Adventures In Cyprus: Kayaking And Horse Riding](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sunset-activities-in-cyprus-kayaking-and-horse-riding/) - Cyprus is a beautiful island, and one of the things that keeps tourists booking holidays there is the knowledge that they'll never far from the sea. Come sundown, there's no place I'd rather be than at the coast. Is anything more relaxing than watching the fierce, vermilion sun melt into the horizon, with the waves
- [Plan Your Fun Weekend In Newcastle With This Bumper Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-in-newcastle-weekend-city-break-guide/) - Newcastle Upon Tyne's city centre is the perfect northern destination for a weekend city break in the UK. It's compact, there's a burgeoning local food and drink scene and the Geordies pride themselves on their friendly natures. Planning a weekend in Newcastle is also pretty affordable, with reasonably priced city centre hotel rooms and those
- [Our Jamaican Holiday: Riu Ocho Rios Jamaica Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/riu-ocho-rios-review-jamaica-hotels/) - I've always wanted to holiday in Jamaica, but until recently it was one of those extravagant dreams that I never really believed was attainable. Happily for me, I got my chance at the end of last year, and I jetted off to the land of Bob Marley, Red Stripe and sunshine for New Year 2018.
- [ABode Manchester Hotel Review: Enviable Rooms](https://www.whileimyoung.com/abode-manchester-hotel-review/) - When I went down to Manchester for the incredibly swish Northern Blog Awards ceremony, it was important to me to stay in an equally swish hotel in Manchester's city centre. Enter, ABode Manchester. Just along the road from Piccadilly Station in a former textile factory, ABode Hotel certainly ticked the box when it came to
- [Living Room Decor Tour](https://www.whileimyoung.com/living-room-decor-tour/) - Having never lived in any one dwelling for more than a year since I was 18, I've never really had the chance to decorate my living area and make it look beautiful. I also never really cared about how my surroundings looked, because I knew it would soon be time to pack up and move
- [Saffron Brunch At Atlantis The Palm: Dubai's Best Party Brunch?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/brunch-atlantis-palm/) - Attending a boozy brunch at Atlantis The Palm is a veritable rite of passage for Dubai's party-going expats. With its iconic architecture and prime location crowning the outer prong of the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis is one of the most Instagrammed hotels in the world. If you can't afford a night in one of its luxury hotel suites, brunch
- [7 Things I Did To Cure My Adult Acne](https://www.whileimyoung.com/7-things-i-did-to-cure-my-adult-acne/) - I sailed through my teenage years relatively spot-free and smugly thought I'd gotten away with it, but acne reared its ugly head on mine when I was 25. I was absolutely mortified. My skin broke out about three months after I moved to Dubai and at first I thought it was a reaction to the
- [Day Two in Cape Town: Lucky and Lost Tour](https://www.whileimyoung.com/day-two-in-cape-town-lucky-and-lost-tour/) - I'm sharing my day-by-day Cape Town itinerary in separate posts because I did too much to fit into one mammoth three day guide. I loved it there, and you will too. On my first day in Cape Town, I explored the city bowl's main attractions and cruised out to Robben Island. I kind of worried I'd exhausted
- [A Drunk, Sun-drenched Brunch At Oceana On The Palm, Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/brunch-oceana-beach-club-palm/) - I honestly cannot believe that having alfresco brunch on the Palm is a thing that I do now. I've come a long way from sitting on the steps of my local youth club with a bottle of cider, eh? Fun times. Expat life in Dubai really opens up a world of opportunities! Anyway, when I lived
- [Sleeping In The Borneo Jungle: Terrified And Alone In Paradise](https://www.whileimyoung.com/stay-northern-borneo/) - When I was 22, I flew to Borneo to meet backpacking friends. Our plans were skewed and I ended up sleeping in the jungle at the northern tip of Borneo... ALL. BY. MYSELF. An exciting experience for the fearless adventurers among us, right? Shame I don't fall into that category. I may have been terrified
- [Making friends in Dubai - an update on expat life](https://www.whileimyoung.com/making-friends-dubai-update-expat-life/) - How to meet people in Dubai Hello there. I feel like it's time for an update on Dubai life! Are you still interested? Last time I wrote about how I'm settling in, it was all a bit woe is me. I was struggling with spending most of my time alone and wondering how to make friends
- [Koh Phi Phi Don is a backpackers paradise](https://www.whileimyoung.com/koh-phi-phi-don/) - Koh Phi Phi Don: a guide While I was travelling around Thailand there was one goal: I wanted to see those postcard perfect long-tail boats. It took a jaunt to the North, Chiang Mai, and a scarring third class journey back down through the country, but I finally got what I wanted. Koh Phi Phi
- [Edinburgh Is My Favourite Place In The World. Here Are 17 Reasons Why](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-things-about-edinburgh/) - Edinburgh is a funny old city. The Scottish capital has all of the splendour a big city should, but with the charm of a small town. Thoroughly modern but with a fierce grip on its heritage, the city enchants and welcomes visitors with gusto - and a wee dram. It's the birthplace of countless literary classics,
- [A Perfect Saturday in Williamsburg, Brooklyn NYC](https://www.whileimyoung.com/saturday-in-williamsburg-nyc/) - The hipsters' paradise of Williamsburg is Brooklyn's most up and coming (read: gentrified) area, with edgy coffee shops and unique boutiques around every graffiti-ed corner. The neighbourhood is a hive of young creative energy, and it's a must-visit when you're in New York. Want to know how to spend the perfect Saturday in NYC's coolest neighbourhood?
- [Exploring Holguin, Cuba In A Classic American Car](https://www.whileimyoung.com/driving-around-holguin-in-vintage-cars/) - When I think about Cuba (and believe me, I dream about the Caribbean a lot when I'm sat staring out of the window in rainy England); my mind automatically goes to Havana, to Trinidad and to well, rum. All of the rum. What I didn't realise about Cuba before I visited earlier this year is
- [How to get a job in Digital Marketing](https://www.whileimyoung.com/get-job-digital-marketing/) - Love social media and all things digital? A role in Digital Marketing might be the perfect way to turn your passion into a career. Lately, people have been asking me how I got my job so I thought I'd share all of my tips in a blog post to help anyone interested. Digital Marketing Managers
- [Learning About Rural Life In Cuba At Boca De Sama Fishing Village](https://www.whileimyoung.com/rural-cuba-boca-de-sama-fishing-village/) - If you're travelling to Cuba, your itinerary will likely be consumed with drinking Daquiris in Havana or lazing on the beach under the shade of a Royal Palm. Why not travel a little deeper into the sun-drenched country and experience life in Cuba's small fishing village communities? I went on a tour to Boca De Sama
- [Best Sunsets Around The World](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-sunsets-around-the-world/) - Where have you seen the most beautiful sunset? I've been lucky enough to watch the sun go down in some jaw dropping places around the world, with a cold local beer in my hand and surrounded by new friends from different countries. Every time, it's special. There's something about the last rays of the day
- [Is It Safe To Travel To Egypt As A Woman?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/can-females-visit-cairo-alone/) - Want to know what I hate? People telling me not to visit certain countries just because I'm female. That was something that happened a lot when I decided to travel to Cairo without a male companion and just a girlfriend for company. 'Is Egypt safe to travel for girls?' was the question on everyone's lips. It's
- [How To Become A Digital Nomad](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-become-a-digital-nomad/) - So you want to become a digital nomad? I don’t blame you; it’s basically a dream lifestyle. I should know, I’ve been location independent for a few years now. But what exactly IS a digital nomad? What are the downsides? How do you start getting paid while you travel? What do you need to succeed
- [What Nobody Tells You About Being Your Own Boss](https://www.whileimyoung.com/negatives-being-self-employed/) - I recently published a blog post focused on the best things about being self-employed. I made self-employment sound like a dream lifestyle, but I felt a bit guilty about that because working for yourself DOES have its downsides. It wouldn't be responsible or authentic of me to only share the highlights. The sad thing is,
- [How To Save A Holiday From Hell](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-save-a-ruined-trip/) - There's nothing worse than a meticulously planned adventure that you've been looking forward to for months going wrong. The sour disappointment of a destination or experience not measuring up to your expectations is a hard pill to swallow, especially when you've saved hard for the trip. Having visited 50 countries, some with just a backpack
- [Cruising on Kerala's Backwaters in a Houseboat](https://www.whileimyoung.com/kerala-backwaters-houseboat-cruise/) - During our Globe Travel Centre tour of Kerala in India, one of our standout experiences was the night we spent on a luxury houseboat on the Kerala Backwaters. We slept in one of Xandari Riverscapes' private houseboats, which depart near Alleppey. Kerala's serene backwaters are the main draw for travellers visiting the state in South
- [Gifts for Men Who Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/gifts-for-men-who-travel/) - Shopping for men is hard. Everyone knows that. Shopping for male travellers is even harder, because they tend to prefer plane tickets to anything that fits under the tree. But it's still nice to give them something to open, isn't it? So if he already has a beard trimmer and he's got enough socks, check
- [Why Xandari Pearl in Kerala is Heaven on Earth](https://www.whileimyoung.com/xandari-pearl-resort-review-kerala/) - When my fiancé and I were travelling in Kerala using an itinerary created for us by Globe Travel Centre, we were hosted by Xandari Resorts throughout our trip. Our third and final stop in Kerala, after our houseboat cruise on the backwaters, was two incredible nights at Xandari Pearl on Marari Beach. It was truly
- [Best Places to Visit in Kochi, Kerala: One Day Guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-places-to-visit-in-kochi/) - Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a port city in Kerala, India where Chinese and Arabian traders established a thriving spice trade in the Common Era. Its history and fabulous shopping opportunities make Kochi a great place to stop and spend some time exploring before you set sail on a cruise of Kerala's tranquil backwaters.
- [6 Reasons I Love Being Self-Employed](https://www.whileimyoung.com/benefits-of-being-self-employed/) - Working for yourself can be an emotional and financial rollercoaster but for me, the highs outweigh the lows. I quit my last salaried job in March 2017 and have been my own boss ever since. I yearned to be self-employed for four or five years before I made the move to leave the 'normal' working
- [Five Nights In Ibiza: Postcards From Our Holiday](https://www.whileimyoung.com/five-nights-in-ibiza-postcards-from-our-holiday/) - Being a travel blogger is often considered one of the best jobs in the world and having been blogging full-time for almost three years, I tend to agree. Like any job though, it does have its drawbacks. For me, one of the downsides of travel blogging is the fact that I never let myself relax
- [Introducing the new-look website!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/introducing-the-new-website/) - Hello hello! I just wanted to drop a quick note here to introduce the revamped While I'm Young! I've been working with an amazing designer to get this website looking exactly the way I want it and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. What do you think? This is something I've wanted to do for
- [Glamping in Scotland: A Romantic Weekend in Auchterarder](https://www.whileimyoung.com/glamping-in-perthshire-scotland-yurts/) - I've always wanted to try glamping. I've done a fair bit of camping in my time, but Brownies church hall camp-outs and dodgy outfits on caravan holidays as a child haven't exactly left me with the most romantic memories. On top of that, there was that ridiculous time I climbed Mount Rinjani, which put me
- [10 Places I Regret Skipping When I Travelled In Australia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/10-places-regret-skipping-travelled-australia/) - Lately, I've been dreaming of going back to Australia. The laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches and coffee culture is calling out to me, and I think it's time for a return trip. When I went backpacking along Australia's East Coast five years ago, I was extremely not well-travelled and didn't have a clue how to plan the three month
- [16 Of The Most Glamorous One-Piece Swimsuits Online Now](https://www.whileimyoung.com/16-of-the-most-glamorous-one-piece-swimsuits-online-now/) - Have you booked your summer holiday and picked out a few drool-worthy one-piece swimsuits for it yet? This year I've got my sights set on Croatia, Santorini and Jamaica. I don't know where I'm getting the dollar for all of these trips, but a girl can dream, eh? I like to start shopping for my
- [Dubai, I'm Breaking Up With You](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-im-breaking-up-with-you/) - Dear Dubai, Habibi, we need to talk. The past 14 months of living here have been full of challenges; of learning a whole lot about myself and about other cultures. I wasn't too sure we were going to get on at first, what with feeling alone and that crazy flatmate situation, but it's been a
- [January Days in Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/typical-month-in-dubai/) - Hi loves! How did Dry January treat ya? I swear I was the only person not doing it! Even though my birthday is in January, it's my least favourite month of the year. So why stay sober through it? Usually, a third glass of wine is the only thing that gets me through the dark
- [My Willow Stream Spa Experience at Fairmont The Palm](https://www.whileimyoung.com/willow-stream-spa-review-fairmont-the-palm-dubai/) - Willow Stream Spas are Fairmont hotels' signature health and wellness spaces, and I was invited to review the experience at Fairmont The Palm one Monday evening. My massage left me feeling like a new woman after a manic day at work, and the entire evening was a welcome respite from what's becoming a hectic lifestyle
- [Leaving My Early Twenties](https://www.whileimyoung.com/leaving-my-early-twenties/) - Hello 25! I’ve been this girl for a quarter of a century. But like, HOW? In my head, it was only last year that I was downing Cherry Lambrini in the woods, with cobalt blue eyeliner smudged so much it looked like I'd tried to neck a Blue WKD via the eye socket, and my skinny
- [Wanderlust Birthday Brunch At Garden, JW Marquis Marriott](https://www.whileimyoung.com/wanderlust-birthday-brunch-garden-jw-marquis-marriott/) - What better place for a travel blogger to celebrate her birthday than at a Wanderlust themed brunch? I'll be honest - I get really stressed when it comes to birthday plans but it was always obvious that I'd celebrate my 25th with a big brunch with all of my Dubai friends. I wasn't short of options,
- [Our Dubai Staycation](https://www.whileimyoung.com/our-dubai-staycation/) - Last weekend was one of the biggest in every Dubai expat’s social calendar: Dubai Rugby 7s! This year, it was happily sandwiched between TWO public holidays (for me, anyway – sorry to those who had to work the Sunday but ermm, not sorry?). It feels like I’ve been on little jaunts around the globe every weekend
- [Day Three in Cape Town: Lion's Head and Table Mountain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/day-three-in-cape-town-lions-head-and-table-mountain/) - This is the final post in my day-by-day itinerary for three days in Cape Town, and I've saved the best for last! Day one was spent exploring the city and visiting Robben Island, and on day two we took a tour to see the best bits of Cape Town beyond the city limits. On our
- [The Skin Treatment That Made Me Confident Again](https://www.whileimyoung.com/kaya-skin-clinic-review/) - This week I was invited to review a facial treatment at Kaya Skin Clinic and I jumped at the chance. As I've previously mentioned in this post about my beauty essentials and as anyone who's had the misfortune of having to look at me recently can testify, moving to Dubai has not been kind to
- [Carnival by Tresind Review: 15 Extraordinary Courses](https://www.whileimyoung.com/carnival-by-tresind-review-dubai/) - Last week I was invited to review a 15 course degustation menu at Carnival by Tresind in DIFC and nothing could prepare me for the winning combination of theatrics, stunning presentation and exquisite flavours this trendy eatery served up. That's right, 15 courses. Carnival by Tresind review: experimental Indian cuisine in Dubai Carnival by Tresind presents a post-modern take
- [Why I Dropped the 'Skinny'](https://www.whileimyoung.com/changing-my-blog-name/) - I've changed my blog's name! First of all, people are just dying to be offended. In a world where you can't dress up for Halloween without being accused of cultural appropriation, the word 'skinny' has become akin to a racial slur. In saying that, I actually really don't enjoy upsetting people and the handful (and
- [How Blogging Has Changed My Life](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-do-people-blog/) - #BloggerProblem 101: struggling to explain blogging to non-bloggers. We've all been there. The perplexed stares, the dismissals, the snide comments. It's frustrating, mainly because bloggers are fiercely passionate about our craft, yet blogging is a hugely misunderstood industry - and a big one, at that. Why are so many people starting blogs? The non-bloggers reading this are here for
- [Back to Dubai, back to reality (kind of)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/back-to-dubai-back-to-reality/) - Hola habibis, It’s been a while since my last Dubai expat life update and that’s because I haven’t been here! I’ve been in Sri Lanka on holiday with my actual habibi, living the all-inclusive high life. And before that, I had a flurry of visitors to keep me busy. I got to live like a
- [Brunch at Brasserie 2.0, Le Royal Meridien Review: The Best Foodie Brunch In Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/brunch-at-brasserie-2-0-le-royal-meridien/) - There's been an unforeseen downside to travelling every weekend: I found myself suffering withdrawal symptoms from the Dubai brunch scene. #DubaiProblems, but where better to cure the cravings than at Le Royal Meridien? I experienced my first ever Iftar feast at their Brasserie 2.0 restaurant during Ramadan and was thoroughly impressed, so I was eager to go back and check out their
- [The Blue Hostel Rome Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/blue-hostel-rome-review/) - Going to Rome for a short break and looking for a cute hotel that won't break the bank, leaving you with more money to spend on pizza and Aperol Spritz? Those were my requirements when I visited Rome this month, and The Blue Hostel turned out to be perfect. Location This boutique-style hostel is located right
- [The first six months of life in Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/first-six-months-in-dubai/) - I've been living in Dubai for well over six months. It still sounds crazy to me, like it's a life that belongs to somebody else. I thought I'd give you a bit of insight into the ups and downs of the first six months of expat life in the desert. Preparing to move to Dubai Moving
- [Luxury for Less on Hong Kong Island: An Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/luxury-less-hong-kong/) - Hong Kong isn’t the first destination that springs to mind for a budget city break, but it is possible to find luxury for less in this buzzing but expensive metropolis. I’m a big believer in living a champagne lifestyle on Lambrini pockets, so I welcomed the challenge when Travelex asked me to fake fancy in Hong Kong
- [Iftar at Brasserie 2.0, Le Royal Meridien Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/iftar-brasserie-2-0-le-royal-meridien-dubai/) - I'll admit it: I was nervous about spending Ramadan in Dubai. Life here has so far been a flurry of activity; ladies night and brunches interspersed with evenings on the beach, enjoying the last rays of the day with a smoothie in my hand. So what would I do when all of my favourite things
- [Double Decker Brunch & Chase & Status on the Palm](https://www.whileimyoung.com/double-deckers-brunch/) - A typical weekend in Dubai I've had another one of those 'I can't believe this is my life' weekends. I'm completely overwhelmed by the social calendar I've built since moving here. It took about two months, but it's so much easier to make friends when you're living somewhere where no one knows anyone and now I can't
- [Flying solo at Dubai Kite Festival](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-kite-festival/) - Dubai Kite Festival and my first Ladies Night Sometimes, expat life can be incredibly lonely. But then maybe that's just part of growing up - and nothing to do with where you are in the world. Now that I've left uni, I've realised that adulting is basically just being on your own a lot, worrying
- [Our stay at the Ibn Battuta Movenpick in Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/review-ibn-battuta-movenpick-dubai/) - Ibn Battuta Movenpick Hotel review and a look inside the Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai Homesick in the desert Dubai and I are not friends right now. It's okay though. I've been here six weeks; we were due a fall out at some point. I'd had this niggling feeling that my transition into UAE expat life had been
- [Dubai Life part 3: A new pad in Jumeirah & Latitude Brunch](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-life-jumeirah-brunch/) - I can't believe it's been a almost a month since I left England for Dubai. Four weeks of life in this sandpit have whizzed by! The first few were a confused daze of flat hunting and learning the ropes, but now I've moved into an apartment in Jumeirah and am settled into the daily grind.
- [Learning About Life In Dubai: New Expat Diaries](https://www.whileimyoung.com/emirati-culture-dubai-life/) - I may still be homeless, but part two of my first week in Dubai went well. It was a blur of inductions, apartment hunting (ugh) and erm... puking. Twenty-four years old and I still haven't found a hangover cure that works for me. Learning about Emirati culture and settling in to life in Dubai I wrote
- [If I can travel, anyone can](https://www.whileimyoung.com/if-i-can-travel-anyone-can/) - Do you dream of travelling but don't know if you'd be 'good at it'? This post is for you. It's for the dreamers, the 'If Only'-ers, and the 'One Day'-ers. The ones who didn't grow up knowing that the world is their playground and those who don't think they have the balls to go out and play.
- [I moved to New York!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/i-moved-to-new-york/) - Two weeks ago I moved to the capital of the world - New York City! Quitting my graduate job to move to America with no fixed plan of action was a decision I had to patiently explain to a few people, but at the end of the day, if I can't do it now, while
- [Elephant Nature Park In Chiang Mai, Thailand: The Best Place For Ethical Animal Tourism](https://www.whileimyoung.com/bathing-elephants-at-the-elephant-nature-park-chiang-mai/) - Our arrival in Thailand may have played out like a club 18-30 holiday, but during our week in Chiang Mai I was humbled by getting up close and personal with some beautiful animals. There are plenty of things to do in Chiang Mai, but this was an unforgettable experience.
- [Hersonissos, Crete: Things To Do On A Girly Holiday](https://www.whileimyoung.com/hersonissos-crete/) - With University finally coming to a close, my five girlfriends and I decided we needed a holiday. We found a cheap package deal on icelolly for Hersonissos, a resort area of Crete not too far from the main city of Heraklion. I thought I'd share how we spent our time because we didn't find much
- [Sand Sledging on Carlo Sand Blow, Rainbow Beach](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sand-sledging-on-carlos-sand-blow-rainbow-beach/) - Heading to Rainbow Beach on an Aussie road trip? Here's where to stay and what to do. Make sure you walk to Carlo Sand Blow for sunset and do some sand sledging! Getting to Rainbow Beach Still reeling from our Whitsundays experience, C and I ran blindly along a poorly lit road looking for the
- [A Near-Naked 'Healing' At El Chorro De Maita, Cuba](https://www.whileimyoung.com/el-chorro-de-maita-holguin-cuba/) - El Chorro de Maita Museum is a small but interesting museum where people holidaying in Holguin's beach resorts can spend a few hours learning about the Cuban people's past. You know, if you get sick of Mojitos and sunshine? I'd recommend hiring a classic American car for the ride there. Visiting a museum in Cuba: El Chorro
- [Five days in New York City!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/five-days-in-new-york-city/) - Going to New York for five days? Here's an itinerary of things to do, places to see and eat. New York is best explored on foot but if you're short on time or you'd rather have someone else do the navigating, I recommend buying Hop On, Hop Off bus tickets online before you go. It's
- [One Day in Brisbane](https://www.whileimyoung.com/one-day-in-brisbane/) - I loved Australia within an hour of arriving The four hour flight to Brisbane from Christchurch was a breeze after the long haul to the southern hemisphere, and we spent 100 dollars on vodka in Duty Free. It felt like a worthy investment. Welcome to the Land Down Under! We only had 24 hours to
- [Sentimental Travelling Post... Sorry!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sentimental-travelling/) - Some deep thoughts and quotes about travelling Sometimes, a famous quote so perfectly encapsulates a feeling that there seems little point trying to articulate it differently. When C bought me my travel diary for my 21st, she wrote a quote on the first page. Henry Miller - “One’s destination is never a place, but a
- [Fun Things To Do In Wanaka, New Zealand During Winter](https://www.whileimyoung.com/wanaka-at-winter/) - Hailed as Queenstown's shy little sister, Wanaka is probably great in the summertime. The increasingly popular resort town is built around a crystal clear lake and surrounded by that quintessential Kiwi cluster of mountains. Wanaka offers a whole host of outdoor activities for the rosy-faced, enthusiastic tourist and has quickly transformed into a must-visit in New Zealand's south
- [The perfect hotel for a romantic weekend in York](https://www.whileimyoung.com/marmadukes-hotel-review/) - Marmadukes Hotel review Looking for a unique hotel in York? It's been a stressful few weeks, so Tom and I decided to get away from it all and spend a romantic weekend in York. Nothing like running away from your problems, eh? Weekend breaks in the UK are my new fixation while I balance my career
- [Exploring the Walled City of Angkor Thom](https://www.whileimyoung.com/exploring-the-walled-city-of-angkor-thom/) - When you visit Angkor Wat, don't forget Angkor Thom! When I think about Cambodia, I'll remember the sticky heat and immense grandeur of Angkor Wat - and riding a bike for the first time since I was 8 years old. On both nights in Siem Reap we joined the throngs of backpackers that spilled
- [Halloween in NYC](https://www.whileimyoung.com/halloween-in-nyc/) - At home in Isle of Man, it's called Hop Tu Naa and is a time for kids to sit outside the local shop with a pair of trackies and a Scream mask begging for a penny for the Guy. While Brits are starting to buy into the holiday, nobody does Halloween like New Yorkers. Here
- [Bangkok, Five Times: What To Do in Bangkok](https://www.whileimyoung.com/bangkok-five-times/) - So you're going to Thailand? Get ready to brave Bangkok The most important thing I can tell you about travelling around Thailand is that Bangkok is basically the hub of the entire country and any journey you plan to make will inevitably involve a lengthy voyage back to the chaotic capital to catch another bus, even
- [Airlie Beach Is A Backpackers' Paradise, Even In Winter](https://www.whileimyoung.com/airlie-beach/) - "Welcome to f**king paradise! Isn't it beautiful? I get to live here!" Spoken by a tanned, older old guy in board shorts with a cig stuck behind his ear, those were the words that shattered my peace as I lay baking on the pavement at Airlie Beach's port, and it's that Aussie accent that will
- [How To Read More (Without Spending A Fortune On Books & Magazines)](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-read-more-for-free/) - For as long as I can remember, reading has been one of my favourite escapes. Being transported to another, fictional world through the pages of a good book, or enhancing my mind with informative magazine articles is my go-to pastime. But I haven't always read as much as I do now. After completing my English
- [What To Wear On A Cruise: Formal Night](https://www.whileimyoung.com/what-to-wear-on-a-cruise-formal-night/) - One of the things I was most excited for when I confirmed my press trip with Royal Caribbean was choosing outfits for formal nights on board. Of course, I was looking forward to all the tropical destinations we'd be stopping in during the seven night cruise (Labadee in Haiti, Falmouth in Jamaica and Cozumel in
- [Cozumel Royal Caribbean Excursion: Mayan Ruins and Beach](https://www.whileimyoung.com/cozumel-royal-caribbean-excursion-mayan-ruins-and-beach/) - The third and final stop on my Royal Caribbean press trip in the Western Caribbean was Cozumel in Mexico. We hopped off the ship (well, not literally) for our shore excursion: 'Mayan Ruins, Island Tour & Beach'. Just like our port day in Jamaica two days before, Cozumel was another return trip for me. I
- [River Tubing and Partying in Jamaica](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-jamaica-shore-excursion-royal-caribbean/) - During my press trip with Royal Caribbean, our second port of the seven night Western Caribbean cruise was Falmouth in Jamaica. The shore excursion we did there was probably my favourite of the entire trip and it was a day I'll remember forever. Our day in Jamaica involved cruising down a river in a rubber
- [Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas Review & Ship Tour](https://www.whileimyoung.com/royal-caribbean-harmony-of-the-seas-review/) - If you follow me on Instagram, you probably saw that I just spent seven incredible nights onboard Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas as a guest of the brand. During our Caribbean cruise, we docked in Labadee in Haiti, Falmouth in Jamaica and Cozumel in Mexico. Each of the ports was a little slice of
- [Visiting Cappadocia: Things To See & Do](https://www.whileimyoung.com/visiting-cappadocia-things-to-see-do/) - Cappadocia's fairytale landscape makes it a popular destination for hot air balloon rides, winning the Turkish region a top spot on every Instagram-obsessed traveller's bucket list. But there are more things to do in Cappadocia than the iconic balloon flights! I visited Cappadocia for just 24 hours during my 10 days in Turkey and found
- [How I Changed My Outlook on Driving](https://www.whileimyoung.com/nissan-micra-tekna-review-nervous-driver/) - I've made no secret of the fact I'm not a born driver. And unfortunately for me, I also wasn't born to be driven. As great as that would be, I can't exactly afford a chauffeur for the rest of my life. My fiancé took up the role without complaint, but I hated relying on him
- [27 Reasons Why You Should Visit Warsaw For A City Break](https://www.whileimyoung.com/reasons-to-visit-warsaw-poland-city-break/) - I have to admit that Poland's capital had never been high on my list of places to visit. I booked flights on a whim then immediately wondered why I hadn't spent the cash on a trip to say, the former capital Krakow, which everyone knows is a fun destination. But is Warsaw worth visiting? Not
- [Destination Wedding Diaries: Finding Our Venue](https://www.whileimyoung.com/destination-wedding-diaries-finding-our-venue/) - In case you missed my 5,000 ring-drops on Instagram, I'm in the midst of planning a destination wedding. My fiancé (woo!) and I got engaged in July last year and I immediately knew we'd tie the knot abroad. I was SO excited, but somewhere between frantic Pinterest board creation and mini meltdowns about being old
- [Marrakech Solo Female Travel Tips: Is Morocco Safe For Women Travelling Alone?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/marrakech-solo-female-travel-safety-tips-what-to-wear/) - I was a little bit nervous about travelling to Marrakech as a solo female, I have to admit that. I've done a fair bit of solo travel and am used to looking after myself abroad, but Morocco is one of those destinations that gets mixed reviews. Is Marrakech safe for solo female tourists? Undeterred, I
- [My Christmas Markets Cruise With P&O Cruises](https://www.whileimyoung.com/po-cruises-cruise-review-winter-aurora-cruise/) - I love all kinds of exploring, but one mode of travel I hadn't experienced until recently was cruise travel. As we swung into the festive season, I joined a 10 night P&O Christmas Market Cruise around some of Europe's best port cities for a taste of life at sea on P&O's smaller ship, the Aurora. I'll
- [DFDS Newcastle to Amsterdam: Why The Ferry Is The Best Way To Get There](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dfds-to-amsterdam-review/) - I'll be honest – before I was invited to review a DFDS trip from Newcastke to Amsterdam, I wasn't sure I could think of anything worse than being trapped on a ferry overnight. I wasn't expecting supreme comfort, top-notch food and a memorable night out, but that's what I got. My friend Shannon and I
- [Surprise Them With Trips, Not Stuff](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travelling-with-your-partner-better-than-solo-travel/) - If you've been following my life in Dubai for a while, you'll know that I've been fortunate enough to travel to ten different countries in the past twelve months. I took the majority of these trips alone, and it was all kinds of wonderful. I believe that everyone should travel by themselves while they're young. It
- [Breakfast With A View of Burj Al Arab At McGettigans, Madinat Jumeirah](https://www.whileimyoung.com/breakfast-at-mcgettigans-madinat-jumeirah/) - McGettigans is hugely popular among expats in Dubai, mainly thanks to its home-away-from-home feel, live sports events and good craic. The Irish chain have bars dotted around the world, including Singapore and New York. There are a few in Dubai: in JLT, the airport and in my favourite place in Dubai, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah. A review
- [My top travel experiences this year](https://www.whileimyoung.com/top-travel-experiences-year/) - 2016 has been pretty bloody amazing. I moved abroad and started working for an airline, achieving my dream of having a grown-up, fancy career and still travelling. Last year, I thought I balanced the two pretty well – you can read about how I spent over 50 days travelling while working full time to learn how you
- [Malta Sightseeing: A 24 Hour Itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/malta-sightseeing-itinerary/) - Malta is a sun-drenched island known for its historic sights and glittering blue water. The destination's British influence makes sightseeing in Malta easy for English speakers and its peeling painted ochre buildings and multicoloured doorways give the island an easy charm. But is it possible to ‘do’ Malta in a day? You'd struggle to walk
- [Seaham Hall Hotel and Spa Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/seaham-hall-hotel-spa-review/) - When Seaham Hall hotel emailed me the week before my stay to ask which kind of pillows we'd prefer in our suite, I knew our romantic break there was going to be special. After six months of life in Dubai, I was going back to North East England for a visit and five star Seaham Hall
- [Dubai's closing parties](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-closing-parties/) - As the party season kicks off in clubs across Europe, it's all winding down in Dubai... Hi pals. Here's a little update on Dubai life. Last month began with a massive fail. I was eleven minutes too late to board my impromptu flight to Vienna and my oh-so-spontaneous solo adventure turned in to staying in Dubai all weekend,
- [Sailing the Whitsunday Islands](https://www.whileimyoung.com/sailing-the-whitsundays/) - We slipped off our flip flops as we boarded the Tongarra catamaran and spent the week that followed barefoot. Our bags of goon, the backpackers' elixir, were chilling in cool boxes as we departed Airlie Beach Harbour and literally sailed into the sunset for two surreal nights of cruising the 74 tropical Whitsunday Islands that
- [Hiking Mount Rinjani: The Three Day Trek I Wasn't Prepared For](https://www.whileimyoung.com/hiking-mount-rinjani-three-day-trek-wasnt-prepared/) - At 3,726 m, Rinjani is the second highest volcano in Indonesia. This summer, I ended up climbing it on a two night, three day trek in the Mount Rinjani National Park, Lombok. It was an adventure that I was not prepared for. A real bucket list experience where I swam in a crater lake next
- [Flying planes in Nelson](https://www.whileimyoung.com/flying-planes-in-nelson/) - It's always sunny in Nelson, apparently, except it wasn't for the week C and I stayed there. It didn't spoil our fun though. We stayed at the beautiful Palazzo Motor Lodge and the highlight of our time was definitely flying a plane over Nelson and the surrounding area! Our week in Nelson was spent drinking
- [Pancake Rocks and not seeing the Franz Josef Glacier. Oops!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/pancake-rocks/) - Officially the worst travellers ever A few stops in to our New Zealand South Island road trip, we got lazy. After Queenstown's antics we were a bit worse for wear, so we only spent one night in Franz Josef. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see the glacier. I know we should have because one day
- [The Best Eco-Friendly Travel Shoes For Women](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-eco-friendly-travel-shoes-for-women-tropicfeel-review/) - I've always struggled with choosing shoes for travel. Ideally I need a pair of shoes for every occasion and with limited luggage space and airline weight restrictions (lol, remember plane travel?), versatility is super important to me when it comes to deciding which shoes to take on trips. The dream pair of travel shoes for
- [Christmas Gift Ideas From Dalton Park](https://www.whileimyoung.com/christmas-gift-ideas-from-dalton-park/) - More and more of us are getting are Christmas shopping done early, and I think that's going to be the case in 2020. After a washout of a year, at least we've got Christmas to look forward to! For those of us in the North East, we've got a plethora of shops to get our
- [Review of Afternoon Tea at Rothay Manor, Ambleside](https://www.whileimyoung.com/review-of-afternoon-tea-at-rothay-manor-ambleside/) - I mentioned that I was planning a Lake District road trip on Instagram recently and was thrilled when a PR reached out to invite me to review afternoon tea at Rothay Manor Country House Hotel. The luxury boutique hotel is a Grade II listed country house located on the outskirts of Ambleside, which is one
- [The Best Afternoon Tea In The Lake District](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-afternoon-tea-in-the-lake-district/) - During our Lake District road trip in our loaned VW campervan, we were happy to rough it most of the time. You know I appreciate the finer things in life though, so I was very pleased to be invited to review afternoon tea at the Henrock Lounge in Linthwaite House by their PR representative. Linthwaite House
- [Why the Tarn Hows Walk is the Best Easy Walk in the Lake District](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tarn-hows-walk-easy-lake-district-walks/) - The Tarn Hows Walk is one of the easiest circular walks in the Lake District. The well-maintained paths make it accessible for all, and if you stick to the path it should only take you around one hour. We parked the campervan that we'd loaned from All Seasons Leisure at Low Wray Campsite on the
- [The Best Pub Lunch in Cumbria? My Review of The Black Bull in Sedbergh](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-pub-lunch-in-cumbria-review-of-the-black-bull-sedbergh/) - When I was researching good places to eat in and around the Lake District, a PR reached out to introduce me to the Black Bull in Sedbergh, which is technically located in the western Yorkshire Dales but on the edge of the Lake District. Sedbergh is an old market town and upon first glance, you
- [How to Take Part in the Festival of Learning this September](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-take-part-in-the-festival-of-learning-this-september/) - Did you learn anything new during lockdown? While half of the country was taking up hula hooping and learning to grow their own grub, the other half of us were just plodding along, trying to make it through. Hands up if you were in the latter half? I'm definitely among those who feel a little
- [Afternoon Tea at St Mary's Inn](https://www.whileimyoung.com/afternoon-tea-at-st-marys-inn/) - A new contender for Best Afternoon Tea in the North East Last weekend was spent doing one of my favourite things: stuffing my face with cake. We were off to try out a new spot in the North East and it didn't disappoint. Just 20 minutes outside Newcastle City Centre, St Mary's Inn near
- [Thorpe Park Hotel, Restaurant & Spa Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/thorpe-park-hotel-restaurant-spa-review/) - After a long week in my new office, I was ready to unwind when 5pm rolled around on Friday. Aren't we all? Tom and I had been invited to experience Thorpe Park Hotel in Leeds' new 'Feel Good Friday' package. It was exactly what we needed. If you're looking for a way to celebrate the start of the weekend
- [A Love Letter To Great Britain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/a-love-letter-to-great-britain/) - I'll be honest. I used to hate living in the UK. I hated the greyness and the monotony and what I thought of as a lack of culture, a disregard for the beautiful things in life. I had this misguided romantic notion that I should have been born elsewhere and that I was destined to
- [Wynyard Hall Review - A Romantic North East Spa Break](https://www.whileimyoung.com/wynyard-hall-hotel-review-romantic-north-east-spa-break/) - January is a time for recharging, and there's no better way to relax and revive your body and mind than with a spa break, in my opinion. In keeping with this idea, my boyfriend and I enjoyed a little North East staycation at Wynyard Hall, a grand historic hotel in Tees Valley on the outskirts
- [Matfen Hall Hotel Review: A Girly Night In Northumberland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/matfen-hall-hotel-review-a-girly-night-in-northumberland/) - Matfen Hall in Northumberland has been on my list of North East spa hotels to visit and review for some time, so shortly after their summer menu launched, I took my friend Shannon for a girly night at Matfen Hall Hotel for her birthday. We enjoyed a beautiful two-course meal in the hotel restaurant, an
- [The Plough Inn Lupton Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-plough-inn-lupton-hotel-review/) - Have you ever been doing a long drive in England and wished you could break up the hours behind the wheel with a stay at a lovely luxury hotel somewhere along the road? The Plough Inn at Lupton in Cumbria provides a wonderful oasis on the A65 for travellers. Ideally located a few miles from
- [Madame Tussauds Blackpool: Our Visit in Photos](https://www.whileimyoung.com/madame-tussauds-blackpool-review/) - Have you ever been to Madame Tussauds? I hadn't, so when I was invited to review Madame Tussauds Blackpool I jumped at the chance. It was my first ever visit to Blackpool, and I kind of loved it! There's something about quintessentially British seaside towns that fills me with nostalgia and childlike excitement. The promenade
- [Chester Townhouse Hotel & 1699 Brasserie Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/chester-townhouse-hotel-review/) - This past weekend, we were invited to review Chester Townhouse Hotel. Chester is one of my favourite UK cities and I love any chance to spend time there, so I was looking forward to a stay at this city centre hotel. Chester Townhouse is a boutique hotel located on Lower Bridge Street, close to lots
- [Want To Test Your Relationship? Go Furniture Shopping](https://www.whileimyoung.com/furniture-shopping-is-the-ultimate-relationship-test/) - Never mind testing the limits of your love by going long-distance for a year, moving in together or meeting the parents. If you've done all of that already, you'll know that the real test of any relationship is the fateful day you tackle a retail park together. Will you unite against the weekend masses and return home victorious
- [Conquering My Everest: Driving Anxiety](https://www.whileimyoung.com/how-to-beat-driving-anxiety/) - This is a blog post that quite honestly, I never thought I'd be able to share. In February, at 27 years of age, I passed my driving test. It took more lessons than I care to count (I hate to think about the money I've chucked at this), nine years (with an eight year break), and
- [9 Enlightening Things To Do In Holguin, Cuba](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-holguin-cuba/) - Visiting Cuba? You've more than likely envisioned walking down Havana's pastel streets and sipping coconut on Guardalavaca's beaches. But is Holguin on your Cuba itinerary? There's a litany of things to do in Holguin Cuba that will allow you to learn about the country's local culture and have a lot of fun. Located in the
- [Authentic Experiences In Chiang Mai, Thailand](https://www.whileimyoung.com/authentic-chiang-mai/) - Thailand has a wonderfully rich, unique culture beneath its chaotic veneer, but too many backpackers don't really immerse themselves in the Land of Smiles' traditions and culture. Sure, you ordered Pad Thai most nights and drank Chang at the infamous Full Moon Party – but did you actually make an effort to explore Thailand's colourful
- [Getting A Dog Has Changed Me](https://www.whileimyoung.com/getting-a-dog-has-changed-me/) - I’ve never been a dog person. Go ahead, judge me. I'm used to the horrified gasps. Until recently, I had never really been around dogs. I’ve always found them too boisterous and messy for my personal preference. I was a bit scared of big, jumpy dogs when I was younger and so I’ve always tried
- [Traditional Turkish breakfast in Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/turkish-breakfast-dubai/) - Turkish breakfast at Kaftan This weekend I got up early and headed to a restaurant called Kaftan, which is just opposite Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Umm Sequim. One of my Turkish colleagues wanted to introduce us all to a real Turkish breakfast and my ears pricked up as soon as she mentioned it. Watch the full-length
- [A Civilised Brunch at Hakkasan Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/brunch-at-hakkasan-dubai/) - Hakkasan is a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant frequented by the well-to-do crowd in New York, London and Shanghai, among other gastronomical capitals. It has won countless accolades for its oriental cuisine, including a handful of Tatler Restaurant Awards and various recognitions for its wine list. Unsurprisingly, the Dubai edition is no exception, and I met some work friends
- [My Staycation At JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, The World's Tallest Hotel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/my-staycation-at-jw-marriott-marquis-dubai-the-worlds-tallest-hotel/) - I feel like I’ve been hurtling through life at 100 miles per hour recently; what with brunches, fitness classes and ladies nights to attend (anyone got a violin?). So when I was invited to enjoy a little staycation at JW Marriott Marquis, one of Dubai’s best five-star hotels, I packed my overnight bag and switched
- [Overcoming My Fears In Norway](https://www.whileimyoung.com/overcoming-my-fears-in-norway/) - I'll let you in to a little secret. In keeping with the general nature of secrets, it's something I'm a bit ashamed of. It's something that makes me feel bad about myself and it holds me back – both in my personal life and in my career as a travel blogger. Here goes: I'm a
- [How to give the gift of travel this Valentines Day](https://www.whileimyoung.com/valentines-travel-experience-gifts/) - For years now, my fiancé and I have rejected the usual material gifts exchanged between partners, like scents, flowers and novelty gadgets. Instead, we prefer gifts that indulge our shared love of travel. We never gift each other entire trips – we’re not THAT into such grand gestures and I definitely can’t afford to foot the
- [Destination Wedding Diaries: Creating Our Invitations](https://www.whileimyoung.com/destination-wedding-diaries-designing-wedding-invitations/) - Planning our destination wedding hasn't been a fun process for me. The entire rigmarole, which I've heard is supposed to be exciting and romantic, has instead felt like a stressful ordeal; from struggling to find the perfect wedding venues in Italy (our dream destination!) to the wedding planner failing to secure our chosen venues and
- [Love Music Festivals? You Need To Go To Garorock In France!](https://www.whileimyoung.com/best-music-festivals-europe-garorock-france/) - In the midst of the record-breaking heatwave that hit France in late June, I flew out to the south west of the country with a bag full of sun lotion and glitter. I had been invited to attend a music festival called Garorock, as a guest of Ryanair and Bergerac Airport. The French music festival
- [Wedding Dress Shopping In Newcastle: The Best Bridal Boutiques](https://www.whileimyoung.com/wedding-dress-shopping-in-newcastle-the-best-bridal-boutiques/) - With our wedding date finally confirmed and the 12 month countdown fast approaching, I took advantage of the fact that my mum was visiting us in North East England to book a day of appointments at bridal boutiques in Newcastle city centre. As with most big purchasing decisions I have to make (lol I never
- [OD Port Portals Mallorca Hotel Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/od-port-portals-mallorca-hotel-review/) - Mum was visiting over the long weekend so I decided to treat her to a mini-break in Mallorca when I found cheap flights to Palma on Skyscanner. The original plan was to stay in the centre of Palma and explore the destination, but then I was offered a press stay at OD Port Portals hotel
- [Venezuela is the Best of South American Backpacking](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-venezuela-is-the-future-of-south-american-backpacking/) - Welcome to my Dream Destination series! Backpacking in South America has been high on my Bucket List since I got my sticky seven year old hands on a light-up globe and this month, I'm dreaming of Venezuela. It's thanks to Will Hatton from The Broke Backpacker, who was lovely enough to share his experience of travelling in
- [Good Morning, Vietnam: What To Do In Ho Chi Minh City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/things-to-do-ho-chi-minh/) - Visiting Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it's also still known, is a chance to experience modern Vietnam in all its glory. Whether you're wandering through markets amid a cacophony of trading calls or learning about Vietnam's past in one of the museums, there's plenty to do in HCMC for every type of traveller. Welcome
- [Why Driving Is My Everest](https://www.whileimyoung.com/why-driving-is-my-everest/) - I'm typing this with tearstained cheeks, red eyes and an overwhelming sense of disappointment. I've just failed another driving test, and so I'm trying to climb out of my usual post-test pity parade. It features pasta, the sofa and an awful but satisfying chick flick. Maybe some crying to my mum on the phone. Undoubtedly
- [Creating a Grown-Up Bedroom With Leesa Sleep](https://www.whileimyoung.com/creating-a-grown-up-bedroom-with-leesa-sleep/) - Sponsored I've slept in a lot of different beds in my time, and I notice the difference between a good mattress and a bad one. Allow me to list a few of the more memorable of the bunch, a la Jacqueline Wilson's Bed and Breakfast Star. (Shout out to the cool kids who remember her. We've
- [You can follow While I'm Young on Bloglovin](https://www.whileimyoung.com/191035-2/) - Follow my blog with Bloglovin
- [I'm Engaged! What Now?](https://www.whileimyoung.com/im-engaged-what-now/) - It's been a while since I just sat down and had a good old heart-to-heart on here. A pour-your-words-out, typing-furiously, this-is-what-I've-been-doing-lately style catch-up. I've busied myself with writing helpful travel guides and inadvertently neglected the diary aspect of While I'm Young that I loved so much back when I started blogging. I've missed writing personal
- [My Reverse Bucket List](https://www.whileimyoung.com/reverse-bucket-list/) - Whether it's written down somewhere safe or just stored in the 'must do' section of our heads, most of us have a bucket list. A list of the things we dream of doing one day, things we'd like to experience before we die and what we want to achieve in our lifetime. It's great to
- [The Importance Of Reaching Out Online](https://www.whileimyoung.com/the-importance-of-reaching-out/) - I've made no secret of the fact that I've struggled to make friends since moving to the North East. I work from home, I didn't go to school or uni here and Sunderland isn't exactly the type of city that lots of young people move to, so there are very few ladies here in the same
- [Alcohol-Free Cocktails To See You Through Dry January](https://www.whileimyoung.com/alcohol-free-cocktails-dry-january/) - Hands up, those of you who are attempting Dry January? I'll be perfectly honest - I've just got back from a two week long, all-inclusive holiday so I'm starting my dry month a little later than most, but I'm genuinely looking forward to a few weeks of being alcohol free. This is the first time
- [September 2017 Beauty Faves](https://www.whileimyoung.com/september-2017-beauty-faves/) - I'll begin September's faves post with an apology, because 4 out of 5 products I'm chatting about are high end. I've never really been able to justify spending a lot of money on beauty products, but now that I struggle with breakouts, I've realised that it's probably best to invest a little more into products
- [I'm preparing to leave the UK for the desert](https://www.whileimyoung.com/preparing-leave-the-uk/) - Preparing to leave the UK I leave the UK for Dubai at the end of the month! I'm SO nervous but also excited about the next chapter. I met a friend for coffee while I was back home, and something she said made me smile. I was talking about my upcoming move to Dubai and she

## Pages

- [About Dannielle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/about/) - I’m Dannielle. With two ’n’s. I’m an award-winning travel blogger from Isle of Man, living in North East England with my husband and our cockapoo, Archie. I’ve visited over 50 countries and have lived in Edinburgh, NYC and Dubai. Sometimes I travel solo and other times my fella comes with me to play Instagram Husband
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.whileimyoung.com/privacy-policy/) - While I'm Young uses cookies to collect some information about you when you visit this website. In a non-creepy, completely ordinary way, I promise. What information does this website collect and how is it used? Information You Voluntarily Submit This website may collect personal information from you such as your name or email address. For
- [Travel Resources](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travel-resources/) - Planning and booking travel is one of the trickiest things about wanderlust. Over the years, I've figured out the simplest and cheapest ways to plan, book and enjoy a trip. Here are my go-to websites for finding the best deals, and the travel gear I don't go anywhere without. While I'm Young uses affiliate links which
- [Dubai FAQs](https://www.whileimyoung.com/dubai-faqs/) - While I'd love to answer every single email and private message I receive about living in Dubai, I just don't have the time! Instead, I've compiled all of the most frequently asked questions I've been asked about visiting or moving to Dubai in a handy page. I'll eventually publish my complete guide to Dubai so
- [Let's work together](https://www.whileimyoung.com/travel-lifestyle-blog-uk/) - Looking for exposure on this travel and lifestyle blog? If you wish to advertise here, please contact me via the form below or email: noonandannielle(at)gmail(dot)com Make sure you put 2 'n's in 'dannielle' or you won't be hearing from me anytime soon! I also offer freelance writing and social media management services, so holla at
- [Shop](https://www.whileimyoung.com/shop/)
- [Work with me](https://www.whileimyoung.com/work-with-me/) - While I'm Young is a top UK travel and lifestyle blog by Dannielle Lily, voted Travel Influencer of the Year in the 2018 Northern Blog Awards and shortlisted for Best Lifestyle Influencer. Also shortlisted as Best Travel Blogger in the North East Blog Awards and Best Instagram in the Northern Blog Awards in 2017. The website
- [Why I'm Doing It All While I'm Young](https://www.whileimyoung.com/about-old/) - Thank you for visiting my blog! Want to chat about collaborating? Visit my media page. Curious about this travel and lifestyle blog? Keep scrolling! The girl behind the blog I’m Dannielle. With two 'n's. I’m 26 and I was born and bred in Isle of Man. Never heard of it? Yeah, I get that a lot.
- [Destinations](https://www.whileimyoung.com/destinations/) - Planning a trip or looking for blog posts about a specific destination? Click the relevant country on this map and you'll see all of the blog posts I've written about the place.
- [Contact](https://www.whileimyoung.com/contact/) - [contact-form-7 id="203354" title="Contact form 1"]

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Thoughts](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/thoughts/)
- [Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/)
- [Events](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/events/)
- [North America](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/)
- [Europe](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/)
- [Asia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/)
- [Australia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/australasia/australia-travel/)
- [New Zealand](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/australasia/new-zealand-travel-2/)
- [North East](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/uk/north-east/)
- [UK](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/uk/)
- [Love and lust lists](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/thoughts/love-and-lust-lists/)
- [Caribbean](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/caribbean/)
- [United Arab Emirates](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/dubai/)
- [Travel Inspiration & Tips](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-inspiration-tips/)
- [Malaysia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/malaysia/)
- [Borneo](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/malaysia/borneo/)
- [Food & Drink](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/thoughts/food-drink/)
- [Career](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/thoughts/career/)
- [Indonesia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/indonesia/)
- [Lombok](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/indonesia/lombok/)
- [Germany](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/germany/)
- [Thailand](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/thailand/)
- [Vietnam](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/vietnam/)
- [Cambodia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/cambodia/)
- [Spain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/spain/)
- [Hungary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/hungary/)
- [Hong Kong](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/hong-kong/)
- [Italy](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/italy/)
- [Sri Lanka](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/sri-lanka/)
- [South Africa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/south-africa/)
- [Style](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/thoughts/style/)
- [Romania](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/romania/)
- [Croatia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/croatia/)
- [Switzerland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/switzerland/)
- [Austria](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/austria/)
- [Malta](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/malta/)
- [Netherlands](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/netherlands/)
- [Greece](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/greece/)
- [Hotels](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/uk/hotels/)
- [Belgium](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/belgium/)
- [Mexico](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/mexico/)
- [Jamaica](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/caribbean/jamaica/)
- [South America](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/latin-america/)
- [Colombia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/latin-america/colombia/)
- [Africa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/africa/)
- [Luxembourg](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/luxembourg/)
- [Norway](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/norway/)
- [Cyprus](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/cyprus/)
- [Saint Lucia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/caribbean/saint-lucia/)
- [Adventure Travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/adventure-travel/)
- [Wedding Blog](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/wedding-blog/)
- [Poland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/poland/)
- [Morocco](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/africa/morocco/)
- [Australasia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/australasia/)
- [Lebanon](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/lebanon/)
- [Egypt](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/africa/egypt/)
- [China](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/china/)
- [Cuba](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/america-travel/cuba/)
- [France](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/france/)
- [Turkey](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/europe/turkey/)
- [India](https://www.whileimyoung.com/category/travel-2/asia/india/)

## Tags

- [new york](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/new-york/)
- [new zealand](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/new-zealand/)
- [travel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/travel/)
- [travelling](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/travelling/)
- [edinburgh](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/edinburgh/)
- [holidays](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/holidays/)
- [uni](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/uni/)
- [bucket list](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/bucket-list/)
- [Culture](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/culture/)
- [Newcastle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/newcastle/)
- [scotland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/scotland/)
- [nightlife](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/nightlife/)
- [thoughts](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/thoughts-2/)
- [backpacking](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/backpacking/)
- [wanderlust](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/wanderlust/)
- [youth](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/youth-2/)
- [uk](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/uk/)
- [queenstown](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/queenstown/)
- [thailand](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/thailand/)
- [Manhattan](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/manhattan/)
- [NYC](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/nyc/)
- [liverpool](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/liverpool/)
- [party](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/party/)
- [holiday](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/holiday/)
- [hotel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hotel/)
- [camping](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/camping/)
- [leeds](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/leeds/)
- [manchester](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/manchester/)
- [music](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/music/)
- [spain](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/spain/)
- [trains](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/trains/)
- [south africa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/south-africa/)
- [sunderland](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/sunderland/)
- [food](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/food/)
- [Fashion](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/fashion/)
- [inspiration](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/inspiration/)
- [Style](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/style/)
- [Halloween](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/halloween/)
- [photography](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/photography/)
- [Queens](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/queens/)
- [USA](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/usa/)
- [City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/city/)
- [tourism](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/tourism/)
- [Beaches](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/beaches/)
- [Asia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/asia/)
- [bangkok](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/bangkok/)
- [hostel](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hostel/)
- [chiang mai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/chiang-mai/)
- [cambodia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/cambodia/)
- [siem reap](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/siem-reap/)
- [temples](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/temples/)
- [berlin](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/berlin/)
- [germany](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/germany/)
- [street art](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/street-art/)
- [Europe](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/europe/)
- [Greece](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/greece/)
- [australia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/australia/)
- [brisbane](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/brisbane/)
- [City guide](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/city-guide/)
- [sailing](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/sailing/)
- [whitsundays](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/whitsundays/)
- [Fraser Beach](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/fraser-beach/)
- [fraser island](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/fraser-island/)
- [nature](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/nature/)
- [Rainbow Beach](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/rainbow-beach/)
- [melbourne](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/melbourne/)
- [St Kilda](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/st-kilda/)
- [Brooklyn](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/brooklyn/)
- [New York City](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/new-york-city/)
- [cities](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/cities/)
- [Williamsburg](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/williamsburg/)
- [halong bay](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/halong-bay/)
- [kaikoura](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/kaikoura/)
- [kayaking](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/kayaking/)
- [nelson](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/nelson/)
- [vietnam](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/vietnam/)
- [christchurch](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/christchurch/)
- [hiking](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hiking/)
- [lake tekapo](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/lake-tekapo/)
- [wanaka](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/wanaka/)
- [national park](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/national-park/)
- [South East Asia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/south-east-asia/)
- [Mui Ne](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/mui-ne/)
- [lifestyle](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/lifestyle/)
- [SEAsia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/seasia/)
- [North East](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/north-east/)
- [review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/review/)
- [England](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/england/)
- [tips](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/tips/)
- [travel tips](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/travel-tips/)
- [lists](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/lists/)
- [budget](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/budget/)
- [Restaurant Review](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/restaurant-review/)
- [city guides](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/city-guides/)
- [SE Asia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/se-asia/)
- [twenties](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/twenties/)
- [islands](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/islands/)
- [koh phi phi](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/koh-phi-phi/)
- [road trip](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/road-trip/)
- [Hostels](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hostels/)
- [weekend breaks](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/weekend-breaks/)
- [This month I'm dreaming of](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/this-month-im-dreaming-of/)
- [hotels](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hotels/)
- [reviews](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/reviews/)
- [Afternoon tea](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/afternoon-tea/)
- [Cuba](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/cuba/)
- [Phnom Penh](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/phnom-penh/)
- [lombok](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/lombok/)
- [Middle East](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/middle-east/)
- [Guest posts](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/guest-posts/)
- [Dubai](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/dubai/)
- [Borneo](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/borneo/)
- [Malaysia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/malaysia/)
- [careers](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/careers/)
- [York](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/york/)
- [Falkirk](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/falkirk/)
- [Brunch](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/brunch/)
- [Budapest](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/budapest/)
- [Indonesia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/indonesia/)
- [Bali](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/bali/)
- [blogging](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/blogging/)
- [Vienna](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/vienna/)
- [Hong Kong](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/hong-kong/)
- [Dubai life](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/dubai-life/)
- [Italy](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/italy/)
- [Rome](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/rome/)
- [itinerary](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/itinerary/)
- [Sri lanka](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/sri-lanka/)
- [Malta](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/malta/)
- [Cape Town](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/cape-town/)
- [whileimyoung](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/whileimyoung/)
- [art](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/art/)
- [Monthly update](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/monthly-update/)
- [Singapore](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/singapore/)
- [monthly favourites](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/monthly-favourites/)
- [beauty](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/beauty/)
- [home decor](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/home-decor/)
- [spa](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/spa/)
- [romania](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/romania/)
- [Bucharest](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/bucharest/)
- [cycling](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/cycling/)
- [croatia](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/croatia/)
- [interiors](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/interiors/)
- [golf](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/golf/)
- [belgium](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/belgium/)
- [truths](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/truths/)
- [career](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/career/)
- [working from home](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/working-from-home/)
- [mexico](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/mexico/)
- [Amsterdam](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/amsterdam/)
- [Jamaica](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/jamaica/)
- [Sn](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/sn/)
- [expat life](https://www.whileimyoung.com/tag/expat-life/)