Spending a Day in Bath

Bath city centre. A place with dreamy, light stone architecture, beautiful scenery, rich history and the smattering of dreamy independent shops mingled in amongst the favourite chains stores like Anthropologie and Lush. Also when you’re a dog lover, how can you resist a place that has ‘dog welcoming’ signs outside of bars and restaurants wherever you turn – you cant! I often say that I want to live here; I would become a commuter, just to live here in Bath, that’s how much I blooming love it. It’s beautiful and if I get the chance to go, I’ll go. No one needs to suggest it to me twice! Today, I want to tell you all about my day trip to Bath and the awesome places I visited along the way…

Last weekend, when I headed to Bath to meet up with a really good friend for Saturday brunch, to explore the city, shop and mainly have a good old gossip civilized catch up. 

Bath is filled with plenty of cosy cafes to sit in for a long, slow brunch and where you can enjoy the atmosphere and the lovely friendly vibe of Bath city centre. Our first stop was the Green Rocket Cafe, a small vegetarian and vegan restaurant about five minutes away from Bath Spa train station, with an amazing range breakfast choices and delicious coffee, it is definitely a place worth visiting. 

Green Rocket Cafe, Bath - A small corner cafe that has the tasty breakfast that I think I've every had

Whilst there, I enjoyed a ‘mini veggie breakfast’ consisting of: portabella mushroom, scrambled egg, grilled tomatoes, vegetarian sausages and sourdough toast – it was insanely delicious. INCREDIBLE! I would highly recommend this little corner café, if you’re ever in Bath – they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner – so a meal for every occasion, what’s not to love! 

After fuelling up for the day, it was time to head out, hit the shops and explore. Bath is a haven for quirky, independent shops, which are hidden away in the back streets of Bath but hold so much personality and beautiful interiors. In Bath, you really need to go off the beaten track to explore what Bath is all about and find some of those hidden gems; from small quirky restaurants to independent stores where no matter the person you’re buying for, you’ll find a gift for them no matter what. 

For a small city, Bath is well stocked with everything to you need. From all the favourites like Anthropologie, Lush, Jo Malone, Jack Wills, Ted Baker, Urban Outfitters but also independent stores like Pug and Puffin, Found Bath, Beyond the Kale, December 25th and plenty of others to choice and love along the way. Whilst having a lot of choice is great, it also comes with fear, fear for my bank balance – the damage I could do in Bath is not even worth thinking about! Whether you’re after a new perfume, beautiful homeware, or the perfect gift, Bath has a bit of everything. 

Also, if you're the biggest Christmas lover like me - you will love the store December 25th, actually you'll just Bath altogether especially around Christmas time. It has some of the nicest little homeware pieces to help me your home in Santa's Grotto every Christmas, however you could spend a fortunate in there - so approach with caution! 

So there you have it a day in Bath. Bath is so vibrant and has a really friendly vibe; I challenge you to go there and not to love it, like I do. I bet you won’t be able to… 

Wanderlust Traveler

I would have to say that travelling is a gift rather than a goal; I mean, I have been lucky enough to get to few places abroad over the years but I have always wanting to fly and spread my wings a little further - so to speak. Social media is great for keeping in touch with friends and seeing what the world is up to but sometimes, where there is social media, there is jealousy. Recently, I have seen a number of my friends fly off to foreign lands or I've seen status which include the terms "planning" or "booked" which all conclude with a holiday or the fact they're going travelling; I've always wanted to jet set but after reading multiple travel blogs - I want nothing more than to see what wanders this world holds. 

I would definitely say that I am a traveller not a backpacker, I want to see all the beautiful sites of this world; from the concentrate jungles to the outbacks and stunning sunsets, I've just been itching to hop onto a plane and get exploring. So, I decided to put together a small, travel bucket list of places where I would like to tick off - maybe 2016 might be my year to see the world but who knows what the future holds: 

1. New York City - The city that never sleeps! 
For as long as I can remember, New York City has been at the top of my traveling list. It's always been a dream of mine I suppose. Standing on top of the Empire State building taking in the concentrate jungle from a view, having breakfast at Tiffany's (literally), visiting Central Park zoo, trying various new Starbucks favourites that don't seem to make it across the pond and the possibly of saying Hi! to lady liberty is the dream of NYC. I know its not going to be cheap but one day, I would like to think that all those things and more are going to happen to me.  

2. Barbados 
The soft, golden sands and amazing blue oceans is only one thing that I dream about when I think of Barbados; there are plenty of other things that I reckon this island holds. I love turtles! And I've always wanted to swim with them and I believe Barbados is the place to do so. Maybe one day I'll visit. 

3. Los Angeles 
LA otherwise known as Tinseltown. The long, golden beaches, the cliché selfie with the 'Hollywood' sign, walking the walk of fame and just being able to say that I am in the zipcode of one of my favourite TV shows will be a dream come true - for anyone not guessing what TV show I'm on about, its 90210. Yes! That's right Beverly Hills. Bring on LA! 

4. Europe - Switzerland, Belgium and Italy 
Don't get me wrong I've seen some places in Europe but I've never been to any of these places. I mean, most of the time when you go to Switzerland, you have the intentions to go Skiing but I don't think I will be doing this as I am a little bit clumsy from time to time; but I hear Switzerland has some beautiful views (and the food is pretty awesome to!) - very picturesque! Belgium is known for its beautiful architecture and not to mention, its delicious chocolate; also Italy for its history and culture. 

5. Australia 
Where do I start with Australia? Aside from the extremely large reptiles and creepy crawlies, Australia sounds amazing; from the beautiful views and extraordinary culture - it sounds like my perfect destination - not to mention the beautiful, golden sand beaches and amazing opportunities to could hold. 

6. Iceland 
Out of all my choices of destinations, this one has to be the strangest. I mean, its not particularly warm, it doesn't exactly have glorious food and amazing markets but apparently the culture and the geography behind Iceland is amazing - from the volcanos to the geysers I think it would be an amazing destination. 

7. Rhodes, Greece 
I've never been to Greece but if I went, I've always fancied Rhodes. Apparently, its beautiful. Not to mention, Greek food is to die for. From the culture-saturated towns to the sandy beaches and vivid sunsets, I want to see it all and I bet a picture in Rhodes is worth a thousand words. Beautiful. 

Judging by my choice of destinations, there seems to be a theme emerging; it seems all the destinations I have chosen, have to be picturesque and Instagram friendly and has to have amazing food as well! Obviously, my stomach and photogenic ways lead my life. 

What destinations are on your travel bucket list? 

Until the next time I find myself wanderlusting, Au Revoir! 
Love, 
Lauren xo 

Lauren's Declassified Festival Survival Guide

With the summer festival season in full swing, my Time-Hop reminding me that two years ago, I attended Reading Festival and the consideration that you might want to attend a few festivals this summer; I thought I would pass on a few helpful hints and tips that I’ve learnt over my time at festivals, which will ensure you get the best experience possible!

PRACTICALITY VS. STYLE… 

In the past I’ve made the big mistake of getting all ‘done up’ for a festival but I quickly realized that it wasn’t the smartest idea, especially when the bad weather sets in. Putting ‘Festival Outfits’ into Google images isn’t the best idea either because you end up styling yourself in uncomfortable, non-practical clothing, which you end up layering up with jewellery and a tonne of accessories. Although adding style to your outfit is lovely, practicality is a must; remember stay basic with clothing that allows you to move freely and have a good time.

TOP TIP! Festival Fashion is all about comfort and being practical! 

IT’S NOT A CRIME TO DRINK WATER.

Everybody knows that at a festival the alcohol will be flowing; however it is important to also stay hydrated because you don’t want your festival experience to be ruined by de-hydration. Most festivals have free refill water stations, so you have no reason not to staying hydrated; just remember to take a plastic water bottle with you. 

#FESTIVALESSENTIALS.

Firstly, don’t take a suitcase to a festival, a travelling backpack is best suited and is easier to transport around rather than a suitcase.

Your #FestivalEssentials can either make or break your experience at a festival. Your must-have essentials must include: ID, money, suncream, painkillers, hairbands, plasters, toilet rolls, hand sanitizer, babywipes or make up wipes, dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste. Something else that I would suggest is a back up battery pack for your phone, you can get portable chargers these days, I would definitely get one as a festival can get pretty busy and you can't always find your friends in the crowd.

For the overnight festival experience, essentials must include: a warm jumper as it can get a little chilly in the evenings, warm fluffy socks, sleeping bag and pillow.

One thing that is making a come-back is 'fanny-packs'. Although, some aren't the most fashionable things to accessorise with, they are handy to have as you can keep everything in one place and know it is all safe; you can even get one that lie flat on your stomach that you can hide under your clothes and no-one will know you own a 'fanny-pack'.

Own your 'fanny-pack', like Jonah Hill would own his. 

There is a whole load of #FestivalEssentials, that I could unload on you but the essentials that I’ve mentioned are the important things not to forget; however one thing that I would say when you’re finding your #FestivalEssentials is not to overpack and ask yourself could you actually do without it just for one weekend?

Good Luck Packing!

PLANNING IS NO JOKE.

At most festivals across the UK you have the chance to see over one-hundred artists but unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to catch every single artist, unless you want to be running around the arena like a mad-person, I suggest planning. Planning what acts you want to see before you go isn’t a bad thing, it is actually a rather sensible thing to do; after all you don’t want to miss your favourites.

REMEMBER! WE LIVE IN BRITAIN.

In Britain, you can’t predict the weather and it is safe to say that even in the middle of summer, you’re more than likely guaranteed to get rain. Having soaking wet clothes all festival isn’t fun; make sure you pack a waterproof poncho, resealable plastic bags to keep your phone and money dry, keep away from the canvas-style shoes and stick to rocking those wellies.

STRANGER DANGER.

At a festival staying together with your friends is difficult but try and make sure your phones are charged and you know where you’ve set up your base camp for the weekend. People are friendly at festivals but that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down; don’t accept drinks and food from strangers, as you don’t know what could be in them and be aware of your surroundings.

LET LOOSE AND LIVE! 

Some of the best memories I have come from music festivals, so live it up while you’re young because everyone should experience at least one festival in their lifetime; even if you only visit for the day, enjoy every minute of the experience. Remember, stay safe, keep hydrated and leave your worries at home for the weekend.

- Lauren xo

What has Lauren Marie been up to?

In my previous ramblings, I mentioned that I finished my time at university, graduated (not the official ceremony, I have to wait until November for that) with a First Class Honours in Advertising and enjoyed an unwinding girlie holiday in Portugal. So, to get you really up-to-date I thought I would do a quick run-through of all the things that I have got up to, over the last few months and what excited things are yet to come…

Finishing University  

After all the tight deadlines and the nail-biting experience of giving the two copies of my dissertation to the man to bind and the reality of, if he got it wrong, I would have to reprint 151 pages again (twice!), university was officially over. During my last week in Southampton, I managed to fit in a night out, multiple trips to cute little cafés in Bedford Place with the girls, a day of shopping and too many Selfies to even count… Although, this week was one of the most memorable weeks, I think I will ever have, it was also one of the most emotional weeks; although I knew all of us would keep in touch after uni, it felt strange knowing that we wouldn’t be coming back together for another year of university but I wouldn’t change a thing and I hope these girls will remain in contact with me for a very long time. 

Advertising Girls | Class of 2015 

London Weekend 

To summarize this weekend in one word is extremely difficult because it was one of the best weekend, I’ve had in a long time. During my London weekend, I went to ‘The Making of Harry Potter’ studios in Watford and the Capital Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium; I went with one of my fellow Heart Angels, Leonie, who is one of the greatest people that you will ever meet (mean girls quote wasn’t intended). Although, we were in and out of London in less than 48 hours, and dealt with the late-night freezing cold Megabus… I couldn’t of asked for a better weekend. 

The Making of Harry Potter, Watford

Seven books, eight films and ten years in the making, it was time I finally visited ‘The Making of Harry Potter’ studios in Watford. What can I say other that, it was definitely worth catching the wrong train and paying a fortune for a taxi ride to the studios…  IT WAS AMAZING! Although, our phone batteries were dead by the end of the day and we took way too many selfies for our phone memories to hold, it was worth the 4am start from little old Devon to the big city. 

Photo opportunities are everywhere at 'The Making of Harry Potter'. 

Capital Summertime Ball, Wembley Stadium

21 artists for £10 – BARGAIN! From One Direction to Olly Murs, Little Mix to Nick Jonas, it is definitely worth every penny and it was an experience I will never forget. Although, I am not a massive One Direction fan, my love for them has certainly grown (quite rapidly) from seeing them at Wembley but Olly Murs and now Little Mix will always be my first love. Again, not to anyone’s surprise… Leonie and myself took too many selfies! 

Selfies, Little Mix and One Direction, what else could you possibly want? 

Albufeira, Portugal 

I have never been to Portugal but I would certainly go back again. It was beautiful and a very memorable vacation indeed; although myself and Eleanor both got this cold/hayfever thing that to this day, we are still both unsure about what it was, it was filled with many cocktails, lots of sun, swimming and a few too many games of Uno (which tested our friendship to say the least). With views that you couldn’t find in the UK and cocktails that made Vodka Revs cocktails look like a squash, it was a holiday that we all enjoyed and allowed us to unwind after three (intense) years at university.

Gorgeous beaches + cocktails + best friends = A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER!

Graduate Status! 

The 13^th day of July was known as ‘D-Day’ in the Chamberlain household as I woke from a restless nights sleep, to many different messages, emails and snap chats, it was time to find out my fate. Yes, after three crazy, emotional and empowering years at university, I achieved 'First Class Honours in Advertising' status; something I only dreamt of when I first started university in September 2012. I can now officially say “I am an advertising graduate and it is the best feeling in the world!”

You're only an 'Offiical Graduate' when you have too many cards to include in a photograph. 

21^st Birthday Party (not mine, unfortunately, I have a few more weeks to go)

After a month of not seeing the girls, it was back up to Woking for Louise’s 21^st Birthday Party, where I wasn’t only reunited with Louise but Eleanor as well. It was lovely to be reunited with the girls and celebrate not only Louise’s 21^st but all of our First Class Honours' together. 

So, as you can see, I’ve been up to a few exciting things over the last few months and I thought a general overview would fill you in quicker without my endless ramblings about how great One Direction are live, my endless love for Olly Murs and how much I should of been a member of the Harry Potter cast because I looked pretty damn awesome on a broomstick. 

Anyway, what is yet is come is unknown but stick with me folks, exciting things may be right around the corner but we'll just have to wait and see… 

- Lauren xo