It’s become a weekly ritual for us to have a date night every Saturday, so this week I decided to put my chef hat on and cook a delicious spread of Asian food for an at home ‘fakeaway’ style feast for two. But first, I started my evening wind-down with a bubble bath complete with candles, a cup of tea, a book and my iPad for some Pinterest scrolling.
Relaxed and rested following my luscious bath time moment, it was time to get dressed for date night and ready to cook.
Inspired by some sauce packets which my brother bought back from Singapore, I thought it would be nice to try something different and create my own healthy version of a takeaway at home.
I fried off chicken thigh pieces with some onion before stirring through the laksa sauce paste and letting it all cook through. The other sauce was a chicken stock which I stir fried into the cooked rice along with some chopped onion and yellow pepper.
For the other dishes I kept it simple with tamari soy sauce for the stir fried vegetables, a touch of hoisin and soy for the cucumber carrot sesame salad, and fresh plain egg noodles.
And of course we had all the condiments on the side, as well as some prawn crackers with sweet chilli sauce as an appetiser.
Everything was delicious and my boyfriend was very impressed with our feast. We both agreed the standout dish was the stir fried rice in the stock sauce from Singapore, it just elevated the rice to make it so tasty.
Candles lit, music playing and wine poured, the romantic at home date night aesthetics were on point.
After dinner we watched the final heartbreaking episode of ‘Love Story’.
Wholesome, cosy and romantic, what more could you want from a date night at home ❤
There’s something about a girls’ day by the sea that just feels like a warm hug for the soul, and celebrating one of your besties birthdays makes it all the more special.
We kicked the afternoon off on the pebbled shores of Brighton Beach, soaking up the glorious spring sunshine with pink fizz in hand and camping chairs in tow, because practicality is the new chic when you’re in your 30s!
The air was crisp, the sea sparkled, and I felt the kind of easy, carefree joy that only comes from being with your favourite people.
After a few sun-drenched hours, we headed back to Livy’s flat to get ready for the evening which turned into a wholesome little celebration of its own. Somewhere between doing our makeup and sharing outfit options, we surprised Cara with a birthday cake, candles glowing, and yet more bubbles.
For the evening look I went for effortless glam: my new deep olive green Motel top with a plunging neckline, paired with black flared jeans from Stradivarius, brown pointed Topshop boot heels, and statement gold earrings.
I added a cow skin handbag for a playful pop of print and finished with my ASOS brown textured trench to complete the fit. Sophisticated with just the right touch of drama, the kind of outfit that makes you walk a little taller.
We were ready just in time to see the final few moments of sunset, so we ran back down to the seafront to experience it in all its glory.
Sunset skies never fail to amaze me and it was even more beautiful having my besties by my side to soak up this moment with.
Our first stop of night was Plateau, a cosy little wine bar perfect for easing into the evening.
We shared a bottle of red paired with buttery Nocellara olives and tangy pickled veggies; simple, delicious, and exactly what you want as golden hour fades into night.
Dinner followed shortly after at Tutto, a spot we’d been eyeing for a while and it certainly did not disappoint.
Built on the ethos “bring everyone, eat everything”, it felt like the perfect place for an intimate birthday celebration.
We started with warm focaccia bread and creamy buffalo mozzarella served with Jerusalem artichoke and a hazelnut pesto.
For our main course we shared the roasted cod with clams and borlotti beans, chestnut mushroom agnolotti, and a rich, comforting ragu pappardelle.
Delicious dishes full of flavour that we savoured every mouthful of, absolutely exquisite dining scenes.
The waiter then surprised Cara with her second birthday treat of the day, a classic Tiramisu which we all tucked into and thoroughly enjoyed.
From there, the night unfolded in the best way drifting between a few bars, dancing, laughing, and fully embracing that carefree, slightly chaotic energy that only comes out when you’re with your girls.
The giggles, the shared memories, the feeling of slipping right back into your teenage selves like no time has passed at all; nothing fills my cup more than quality time with my best girlies ❤
Sometimes the chicest of things are the simplest of things. Timeless, elegant, classy, when something is chic it never goes out of style. I’ll let the pictures do the talking on this one ❤
As the afternoon softened into evening on the shores of Tulum in early February, we made our way down the powdery stretch of sand just as the sky began its nightly transformation for our penultimate sunset of the trip.
While Tulum sits on Mexico’s east coast meaning the sun technically sets behind the jungle, the Caribbean still puts on a spectacular show.
For the evening I leaned fully into the boho beach aesthetic with a long brown maxi skirt from ASOS paired with a brown flower detail bikini top, my pearl necklace from By Alona, a butter yellow handbag from Topshop, and my ever faithful Celine sunglasses to complete the look.
Soft blush pinks, pale blues and hints of lavender slowly spilled across the horizon, reflecting off the sea in the most dreamy way.
We wandered along the shoreline as the light shifted minute by minute, the colours becoming richer and more surreal with every step, and the sky melting into a pastel painting above the water.
Eventually we drifted back towards Vagalume to soak in the final moments of the sunset.
Cocktail hour felt essential so naturally I ordered a spicy margarita, my go-to whenever we’re by the sea.
With the last glow of the evening lighting up the beach club, we took a few aesthetic photos along Vagalume’s famous wooden walkway, framed by the sculptural pair of hands that look as if they’re cradling you.
It’s one of those iconic Tulum photo spots that feels just as mesmerising in person as it does online.
As the last traces of colour faded from the sky, the moon appeared bright, full and impossibly majestic high above the sea.
The beach took on a quieter, almost cinematic feeling underneath the moonlight; a magical moment I will never forget ❤
Primarily found on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, cenotes are natural, crystal-clear sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, revealing fresh groundwater underneath. So during our stay in Tulum we made it our mission to visit some of the best in the nearby area, one of which being ATIK.
Just a short 30 minute drive out of central Tulum town, it cost about £20 per person for entry to the park which features a number of cenotes, as well as some fantastic art installations.
Arriving in the mid afternoon, it wasn’t too busy so we were able to walk around the park and get photos without any crowds or many other people at all.
We started by exploring the art installations which feature the theme of skulls.
Not my usual taste of art, but the striking wall of colourful skulls made for some great content.
Continuing further into the thicker jungle canopy, there is a ginormous stone effect head sculpture.
Incongruous in its surroundings, this sculpture makes for quite the spectacle amongst the greenery of jungle growing around it.
I couldn’t get over the size of the thing, it made for a brilliant shot of me in front demonstrating its towering size.
Around the corner there was a set of two smaller head sculptures in another clearing which were giving spooky vibes, I wasn’t a fan of those if I’m honest!
It was time to move onto the main event of those dreamy turquoise blue cenotes.
The biggest cenote in the centre of the park is a classic open air one framed with impressive limestone cliff faces.
Nothing matches the magical blue colour of those waters making it feel like you are no longer even on earth, it’s just too perfect.
Although there were a few people swimming, unfortunately it was an overcast day and we weren’t brave enough for a chilly dip.
However on the other side of the cenote pool, there was a large wooden ladder from where we got some picturesque shots.
The way the luscious green vines frame the cenote so perfectly, it’s an Instagram girl’s dream.
I wore my bright coral one piece swimsuit making for an aesthetic colour contrast against the turquoise backdrop.
Another iconic photo spot at ATIK is the small pool within the jungle with a walkway up to another head sculpture.
With the shadows of the jungle canopy above, this photo spot made for a more moody shot.
ATIK park is just made for photos and filming, me and my boyfriend were in our element.
There was also another medium size cenote where there is a manmade large waterfall feature.
Again it wasn’t the perfect weather for taking a dip, but of course we got a few more pics here too.
On reflection, it would’ve been better to go on warmer day in order to experience the cenotes in all of their glory and enjoy bathing in their beautiful blue waters.
That’s not to say we didn’t have a successful trip though as the content we captured was just what I envisioned.
If you’re looking for an Instagramable location whilst visiting the area of Tulum, bookmark ATIK for the most picture perfect backdrops with a touch of abstract artistic edge ❤
The foodie options in Tulum are abundant with plenty of variety, from fine dining restaurants offering lots of alternative cuisines, to health food cafes and of course traditional Mexican street food. However for me when dining out on holiday, it’s more than just the food I’m looking to impress me, but the atmosphere and ambience needs to be on point too.
Now I’m not usually one to necessarily need entertainment with dinner, although we discovered that’s exactly what they like to offer in Tulum at some of the top rated restaurants.
Starting with one of my favourite restaurants for Greek food in Tulum, we visited Ilios twice during our trip and each time had a brilliant experience.
Every night at 9pm there is a fire show and acrobats to entertain guests around the restaurant floor as they enjoy their meal.
It’s quite the spectacle and lasts about half an hour, so you’re getting a great show for free alongside your dinner.
The evening we went for my birthday celebrations we even smashed plates Greek style and had sparklers to dance with, it was such a laugh!
Moving on to Tora where they serve delicious Japanese cuisine, later in the evening we were handed sparklers for a boogy as the DJ played the drums live during his set.
The waiters all get involved too making for a super fun and lively atmosphere amongst diners even after the sparklers are over.
We had a delightful spread of Japanese dishes including the smoked and poached salmon sushi roll which was divine.
Another top restaurant I want to mention for its aesthetic interiors and delectable food is Chambao.
As a traditional steak and grill, the menu is classic dishes done to perfection.
The bread basket with an assortment of three different butters to start was outstanding, and I’m not even usually a big bread basket lover.
I opted for the pear, goat cheese, walnut salad which was beautifully presented and packed with flavour and goodness.
Whilst my boyfriend had an epic steak burger with all the extras, we couldn’t fault a thing.
Although there is no entertainment at this place, the aesthetic interiors and indoor-outdoor style of dining make for a wonderfully romantic setting for a date night dinner.
The only other place I will mention, but save the details as it deserves its own separate post, is Gitano Jungle.
We went here on our final night and were treated to an awesome show complete with disco balls hanging from the jungle canopy.
So that’s a roundup of my top restaurants in Tulum if you’re looking for an elevated dining experience beyond just the food; because every night’s a party in Tulum ❤
Exploring Tulum on push bikes is said to be one of the best ways to get around town and see the sites, so that’s exactly what we did one delightful Tuesday afternoon in late January.
Our morning began with a stop at the Insta-famous Azulik.
Its sculptural wooden forms, woven and curved as if grown rather than built, rise from the jungle floor in perfect harmony with nature.
Walking through the installation felt peaceful and meditative, the kind of place that invites you to slow your breath and soften your thoughts.
From there, we continued our 40 minute cycle along the straight stretch of Tulum’s beach road.
Hotels peeked through palms and every so often, the Caribbean sea flashed between the trees in impossible shades of blue.
The ride itself was a long flat road cutting through the jungle canopy, but those fleeting glimpses of tropical coastline made it feel almost dreamlike.
We made it just in time for the final 3pm entry at the Tulum Mayan Ruins.
After a short walk along a neatly cleared jungle path, the ancient structures revealed themselves against the bright afternoon sky.
Dating back to the 13th century, the ruins carry a quiet strength with their weathered stone walls standing firm against centuries of sea breeze.
Iguanas seemed to rule the grounds, lounging confidently on rocks and darting through the grass, completely unbothered by passing visitors.
The most beautiful view was standing before El Castillo, the old castle perched on the cliff’s edge.
Below it, powder white sand met the endless turquoise of the Caribbean; history and horizon blending into one unforgettable view.
On our cycle back we stopped in at a lovely beachfront hotel restaurant called Mezzanine.
Serving Thai cuisine, it was exactly what we’d been craving in contrast to all of the Mexican food, and of course those beachfront views from the terrace were absolutely dreamy.
I ordered a spicy margarita because when on holiday, an afternoon cocktail is an essential!
We shared a creamy Penang chicken curry with coconut rice, fragrant and comforting in all the right ways.
A hearty curry and my favourite cocktail overlooking that picturesque beachfront, made for the perfect closing chapter to a day that felt both adventurous and beautifully unhurried all at once ❤
Being a January baby, escaping the UK winter in search of warmer climates is always the best way to spend my birthday. So for our winter dose of sun at the start of this year, we jetted off to Mexico and enjoyed two glorious weeks in the coastal town of Tulum.
My birthday on the 26th January was about halfway through our holiday, and it was the most perfect sunny day in Mexico which started with some chilled time on the beach.
I had a fresh coconut to enjoy as I read my book, before dipping our feet in the ocean.
My birthday bikini of choice was this cute butter yellow number with ruffle details.
These butter yellow ruffle hot-pants were the ideal finishing touch to my beachside look.
After a few hours relaxing in our cabana, we walked down the beach to have a couples massage.
With the sound of the ocean waves and palms rustling in the light breeze, it was the most dreamy location to indulge in a massage together.
We then walked along the beach road to find the famous Escultura Ven a la Luz.
This iconic work of art by Daniel Popper is a 10 meter tall sculpture made with steel, wood, rope and greenery.
Ven a la Luz meaning ‘Come to the Light‘, represents the harmony between people and nature and is one of the most instagrammable spots in Mexico.
An afternoon pickup was in need, so we popped into Starbucks for iced coffees and some fruit to snack on.
It was then time for a spot of shopping in the many boho-chic boutiques which line the beach road in Tulum.
I treated myself to a stunning handmade top with flared sleeves and tassels from this shop called Las Lulas.
At £80 it wasn’t cheap, but I just loved the hippy-chic vibe of this piece and the level of detail is exquisite.
Casa Pink Revolver was another lovely boutique selling gorgeous gold jewellery, so I purchased this chunky statement gold ring to add to my collection.
I was yet to choose a gift for my boyfriend to get for me, so with a Sunglasses Hut just down the street, I couldn’t resist the Miu Miu classic round shape sunnies which have been on my wish list for so long.
Not a huge amount of gifts, but each very high quality pieces which I will get a lot of wear out of both on holidays and back home.
Soon the early evening crept up on us and I was hoping for another sunset moment on the rooftop of our hotel, but a huge storm came in bringing buckets of rainfall with it, so we headed back to our room to get ready for the evening.
My birthday dinner fit was this incredible Flook The Label chocolate brown maxi beach dress that my boyfriend bought me for my 30th birthday last year in Bali.
This dress is such a flattering cut and the perfect vibe for a special evening out on holiday.
To complete the look I wore my By Alona pearl necklace, Heaven Mayhem statement gold earrings, my gold swirl bangle, ruffle mule heels from Sol Concept, and my little Bottega dupe handbag from Topshop.
Beachy, sexy and a touch of glam with the pearls, I truly felt like the birthday girl in this outfit.
My restaurant of choice for birthday dinner celebrations was Ilios Greek in the centre of the Tulum beach road.
We’d visited this place earlier in our trip and it was such a fun party vibe with delicious Greek food, we had to come back for my birthday.
In traditional Greek style we did the plate smashing which was super fun.
Then they gave everyone sparklers and we all danced on our chairs!
I ordered my all time favourite, a Greek feta salad which was simply divine.
We also shared the flatbread with hummus, a hearty moussaka, and a fresh green avocado salad.
I had such a fun evening celebrating my birthday and was even surprised with a cupcake and candle from my boyfriend back at our hotel to finish the night.
Another wonderful birthday spent in paradise with the sand between my toes, sunshine on my skin and a big smile on my face; hello chapter 31 ❤
When searching the best restaurants to eat in Tulum, one place that came up time and again on recommendation was Casa Banana.
A restaurant with Argentinian roots, the open firewood kitchen is the centrepiece of this warm and rustic dining experience.
It was buzzing on a Sunday night so we had a short wait for our table, but we were pleased to be seated on the high tables at the front, giving us a great view of the bustling restaurant.
We were welcomed by our lovely waiter with an appetiser of smoked hummus toast.
The wood fired beets with goat cheese, garlic chips and balsamic emulsion sounded simply divine and it was one of my favourite dishes of the trip.
My boyfriend ordered the six hour roasted short ribs with black pepper sauce and dominó potatoes; the meat was so succulent it melted in the mouth.
We also shared the arugula salad with aged grana padano slices and citrus vinaigrette.
Everything was delicious, the service was brilliant and the restaurant was a vibe on a Sunday evening.
If you’re visiting Tulum I’d highly recommend Casa Banana as a top restaurant with the complete package.
Warm and inviting interiors, lovely friendly staff, a bustling ambience and of course, exquisite food cooked over traditional wood and fire ❤
From the peaceful oasis of our rooftop at Hotelito Azul in Tulum, sundown felt like a private show from nature on repeat every night just for us.
Each evening we’d make our way up to the hotel rooftop, barefoot and sun-kissed from the day, quietly anticipating the main event.
No beach crowds, no music; just us, the sky and the endless stretch of jungle unfolding in every direction.
Of course we added a touch of extra romance with a lovely bottle of vino and some nibbles too.
From up there, Tulum felt wild and untouched, a sea of luscious green treetops rolling towards the horizon.
Those jungle sunsets just hit different with the sun dipping gently behind layers of green, disappearing into the earth as if the jungle itself is cradling it for the night.
The air cools, the breeze softens, and the sky lingers in pastel hues long after the sun has gone to bed.
Then before you know it, twilight is upon us and the moon glows majestically up above, before dusk soon rolls in and the night sky takes over.
It became our favourite part of our evenings in Tulum, a golden hour goodnight wrapped in warmth, colour and serenity ❤
Dani Aneka 