Bath, Prior Park & Wells

Post-exam adventure: days 3 & 4

In this episode of my grand 6 day post-exam adventure, we'll be focusing on Somerset (a south western English county which is home to the famous UNESCO historical spa town Bath). If I could have my pick of living anywhere in the UK, Bath will win hands down. I've been here a fair few times already, to the extent that I know the majority of the main roads and how to get from A to B by heart. However, the feeling of awe towards the elegant Georgian architecture in the town centre has still yet to falter.

The Royal Crescent

The above photo clearly explains this feeling.

Sells the BEST biscuits ever

Totally worth applying for :)

Uber in Bath

Having been to Bath on several occasions, there wasn't much need for myself to go down the stereotypical touristy route of visiting the Roman Baths, Sally Lunn's and the Jane Austen centre (although they are highly recommended if it is your first ever trip). I did stop by several places that I had been to before this current visit, mainly my most favourite shops. Seriously, if you consider shopping to be a therapeutic cure to stress then Bath should be your number 1 stop. I guarantee that you'll definitely find the perfect independent retailer for any need that you may have.

Henrietta Park

Sydney Gardens

Sunny day in Sydney Gardens

However, the highlight of my vacation was clearly my exploration out into the wild unknowns (i.e. I went to a bunch of new attractions that I hadn't had the chance to go to during the previous couple of times I'd voyaged to Bath). Personally, I find fun out of simplicity. And that's precisely why my journey led me to three of the most beautiful parks/gardens in the city. Thanks to the consistently crystal clear blue sky, I managed to take quite a few decent photos in Henrietta Park and Sydney Gardens - don't you think? My favourite park would undeniably have to be Prior Park. It's a bit of a trek to get there (seeing as it's up on a huge and steep hill), but it's totally worth it seeing as you get to see and go through its magnificent Palladium-styled bridge (one of only four left in the entire world).

The lone swing

Bath from Prior Park

The Palladium Bridge

Call me old fashioned but I go with whatever floats my boat (i.e. sightseeing in parks).

I'd planned to have a pause in between my park visit and my next destination, but fate had a contrasting idea in mind. So, after walking back down the hill towards Bath's town centre, I immediately boarded the bus to head to Wells. Famed as the smallest town in England, Wells offered me two spectacular attractions to explore. The first was its cathedral which, not only looked architecturally spectacular on the outside, was equally amazing on the inside. I was most intrigued by its unique scissor curve-shaped arches standing just behind the altar - well worth seeing if you're ever in town. 

Wells Cathedral

The scissor arch

The second was the Bishop's Palace and Chapel, which was located just next to the main cathedral (convenient right?). If the weather hadn't been so sporadic (i.e. sun then snow then rain then sun and again), I would have definitely stayed longer in its 14 acre garden in order to explore every nook and cranny. Apparently you can see Glastonbury Tor from a certain point within the garden - wasn't lucky on that particular occasion but I will make sure I head back so that I can see it next time!

The chocolate jug

Needless to say, all that walking made it a very tiring couple of days. It was therefore enough justification for me to devour an entire pizza plus snacks for dinner on the very last night.

And what about days 5 and 6? You'll just have to wait till tomorrow to see ;)

Aloha from Hawaii, Tips from a Local

Hello Lovelies!

Just based on that, you might be thinking, "who is this?  This isn't the normal post..." and well, you're right!  I'm Krysti from KrystiEncounters and I've had the most awesome opportunity to work with Tiffany, here at TheAmatureAnthropologist.  We decided to do guest posts for each other and if you would like to see what she posted on my blog, take a look here (http://krystiencounters.com/2014/08/25/durham-england-travel-tips-from-the-amateur-anthropologist). Our post is going to talk about where we come from and some places you should come check out if you're ever in the area / places to add to your bucket list.

As you can guess by the title, I live in Hawaii, but more specifically, on the island of Oahu.  I must say that it is a really beautiful place to live and I am very lucky to be able to bask in the sun and share the Aloha Spirit with those I come across. 

​If you're visiting during an Eat The Street event, I would totally go--it usually falls on a Friday.  It's usually crowded and it's cash only for most, if not all, the food truck vendors, but it's totally worth it.  You can expect to pay close to $50 per person on all the food you're most likely going to be eating (bring an appetite!).  If I were you, I would share the food with whomever you attend this event with, that way you can try out more of the ono (delicious) grindz (food).  Some of the food is a specialty the vendors are making only for that night, and you may never see them again, so get your fill, and don't forget to ask the vendors which one you have to try while you can.  You can check out my post here on the latest Eat The Street event I went to.  You can also check out their Facebook and Instagram.

If you're coming to Hawaii, or thinking about it, it's probably for the beautiful scenery, right?  I would recommend hitting up the North Shore side of the island to watch a sunset, at least once.  No matter how long I've lived here, I can't get past how breathtaking the sunsets are.  Just be careful as North Shore becomes a hot spot for sunsets and it could be hard to find parking; but don't fret too much, there's plenty beach to go around.  I recommend going about two or three hours before sunset and wade in the water or sunbathe as there will be less hectic tourists trying to frantically find parking / a good spot.

If you're into shopping, I would check out the outlet stores of Waikele before hitting the department stores in the tourist hotspots like Waikiki; don't get me wrong, Waikele is jam packed with tourists as well, but it's still an outlet store with great deals.  It's currently under construction so I apologize for the lack of pictures to show you a little more.  I think my favorite is Charlotte Russe and of course the occasional Coach.

Close by to where I live, is a newly opened place I love to eat breakfast; Rise and Shine Cafe.  Yum! I haven't gotten to try all their food yet, but rest assure, I will try.  My favorite so far was their french toast.  My friend's favorite wasn't the eggs benedict, but the potatoes it came with.

Hope can find the time to come out here one day!  Oh, and don't forget, if you're not used to being out in the sun, or a harsher sun than that of where you live, don't forget to bring a higher SPF!  If you manage to get sunburnt, go to a local drugstore and pick up Aloe Gel, as it will work wonders and feels great!

Aloha, and <3 Always,

Krysti

Profile of the (truly) amazing Krysti

Krysti is a 21 year old blogger who runs KrystiEncounters, mainly a beauty, fashion, and lifestyle blog.  The blog started as a hobby and a small space to express herself and has since expanded to be a little more organized and include other topics.  She lives on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii and loves to spread the 'Aloha Spirit' to those she meets.  Krysti is currently in University hoping to get her Bachelors in Business Administration, focusing more on marketing and is hoping to get a Social Media Marketing position in the future.

Side note from The Amateur Anthropologist

Well folks I hope you enjoyed this very special blog post from one of the best and nicest bloggers I've ever met. Make sure that you go and say hi to her if you're ever in Hawaii.

Remember,

Live, Love, & Learn

x

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

“Cause you had a bad day”

A day at the beach

I always emphasize the fact that I use travel as an excuse to get away from reality, to enjoy myself and to discover something new. There’s no doubt that with all that to look forward to comes immense excitement. You might therefore think that my life’s always rosy and sweet.

Well, in truth, it’s not.

Being optimistic constantly is what I strive for, but sometimes it’s hard to maintain. Sadness is equally a part of my life as is happiness. It might have been because of a pointless argument, the inclement weather or simply the cliché of walking into a pole (which I have to admit, does happen to me frequently and is, obviously, painful). Whatever the reason, I have a bad day every so often. So rather than crying to myself over the spilt milk or munching down bars of chocolate in the hope of suddenly feeling better due to a sugar rush, I head to Saltburn.

Arriving in Saltburn

Teardrops-by-the-Sea

Sometimes it’s hard to hold the tears back, even in such a colorful and cheerful place like Saltburn. I guess it’s fair to say that I usually start off feeling absolutely gray and stay like that up until I reach the entrance welcoming me to this seaside haven.

The entrance to Saltburn

After entering, it’s difficult not to start feeling slightly peachy even just by looking at all the quirky shops, the architectural splendor of the funicular railway (aka. The Saltburn Cliff Lift), and spectrum of colors created by the natural, seaside scenery itself. Don't believe me? Just have a look yourself.

Stonehouse Bakery

Book Corner

Shop window of D.V. Townend & Co.

And yes there have been times when I’ve carried my tears with me all the way down to the beach itself. But they don’t last long, oh no. They’re easily swept away by the ocean waves and seaside breeze.

The cyclists

Pastels and sun

The Saltburn Cliff Lift

The routine

One step at a time

There’s nothing wrong with being spontaneous. Spontaneity is like a flame that essentially ignites any sort of adventure. But when I’m not in the mood for that sort of spark, I like to stick to my same old routine. This basically consists of a long and quiet stroll along the beach, followed by a vanilla ice-cream whilst gazing out to where the sky kisses the sea. And if there’s time, I’ll be taking pictures of the latest creations crafted by the mysterious Saltburn Pier yarnbombers plus something with a hint of quirk and color.

What I wore to Saltburn

Suntanning yarn plushies

It’s as comforting as a mug of creamy hot cocoa on a cold, winter’s night.

But remember, problems should be solved and not avoided. So after I feel rejuvenated and ready to go home to face reality, I end my journey by taking a relaxing trip back up to the train station via the Victorian cliff lift.

One last look before I say goodbye

Saltburn-by-the-Sea: a charming British seaside resort town for most, and a place of solace for me.

x

York - the shopping edition

Confessions of a Shopaholic

If you thought London was the place I traveled to most, think again. If the statistics (i.e. train ticket purchases) are true, then York is in fact number 1 on my list. Be it for a day out with friends or alone, York has a wealth of attractions and surprises that are tempting even to the pickiest of all tourists. And as for me, I just can’t get enough of it. Its sights, sounds and scents will never get old.

Simply put – I formed a bond with York since the first day I set foot in this magnificent town only one year ago.

Normally I’d give out tips on what to best see. But I thought, just for a change (and to try something new), I’d dedicate this post to the shops of York that I adore. So here’s the outcome of my adventure today.

Number 1: Fat Rascal by Betty’s

Placing this as my number 1 buy is not even a question – it’s a must. Call me crazy, mad or even slightly insane if you want, but I promise that you’ll be swallowing each and every word back once you’ve had a bite of this tasty treat. Sweet and fruity, Fat Rascals are best served hot so that they’re crunchy on the outside but ever so moist and soft on the inside – incredibly mouthwatering.

Made me even happier that I got the last one in stock!

Number 2: Handmade cupcake bath bombs by The Yorkshire Soap Company

It’s impossible not to stare in awe of these delicate and scrumptious-looking handmade creations. Even the shop itself is charming with its girly pink prints, glistening chandeliers and the occasional staff member humming “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music whilst serving the humble customer. Undoubtedly elegant, The Yorkshire Soap Company presents a contemporary twist on bath time products by combining fresh scents and patisserie craftsmanship with a sprinkle of imagination.

Just remember: enjoy but don’t eat.

Number 3: Robin – the furniture bird

Other than being an extremely pretty place, York’s full of independent shops selling trinkets and treasures galore. It’s no wonder my wallet undergoes incredible weight loss every time I’m there. My favorite street to shop? Definitely Stonegate (aka. One of York’s oldest street!). I just love walking down the cobbled path, breathing in the atmosphere created by street entertainers whilst simultaneously admiring the colorful windows of shops before heading in.

So on this occasion, robin can home with me.

Number 4: Chocolate

If you’re a chocoholic (like moi), then you’re definitely in the right place. Local, national and international, whatever sort of cocoa related delight you’re looking for, York’s got it all (and an awesome museum to tell you all about its chocolate-making history!). Chocolate-coated coffee beans were calling me (or rather my stomach) today, so off to the shops I went – simple as that.

The next time you think Kit Kat and Chocolate Oranges, I expect you to think of York.

Number 5: (Poetry) books

I know what you’re thinking: Books, really? How’s this supposed to be a “spectacular” ending to another one of your oh-so-famous (lol) blog posts? My response: I beg to differ. I think you have to be absolutely MAD if you don’t spend at least an hour relaxing among the greenery or in a cute café, of which there are plenty, in York. For me, I like to spend this period away from the hustle bustle of the town center, to a less touristy area where I can step back from reality and have some quiet and peaceful alone time. With me I bring a chunky and hearty poetry book, full of adventure, mystery and surprises; the power of rhyme  is simply phenomenal.

And where exactly is this enchanting refugia I am speaking of?

“That’s one secret I’ll never tell”

x

Yarm - North Yorkshire

One word: FINALLY

No need to translate the meaning of that. I've heard a lot about how "nice" and "beautiful" Yarm, a little town near my place, was from a couple of my friends but I'd never gotten the chance to go there. Behold Thursday, a relatively sunny day and one of which I was fortunate to have as a one of my "off-from work" days. Given that I had an appointment back at home at about 5pm, I figured I had enough time to finish off my morning chores, head to Yarm for taking photos and a spot of lunch, AND make it back in time for my appointment. The train to Yarm only comes every one hour so, even though I wanted to relax, my time was somewhat limited.

Pathway towards a shopper's paradise

A journey worth the walk

On my arrival at Yarm station, I was surprised to find that my iphone was claiming that Yarm high street (i.e. town centre) was a good 20-25 minutes walk away. Although this isn't the first time I've been to a station that's a fair but definitely walkable distance away from the town's centre (e.g. Northallerton), I always assumed that Yarm's one would be no less than 10 minutes away from the high street. Probably because I couldn't see over the hedges that surround Yarm station; the train from my place to York is the one that stops at Yarm and so I every time I did pass it, I was on the train and so always assumed that the town centre lay just over the hedges. Nevertheless, the helpful signs and my iphone were both incredibly helpful and I soon found myself heading, in the right direction, towards the town centre. It was an absolutely wonderful walk too.

Yarm town centre

Passing by the grand houses of Yarm often composed of neatly arranged plants or flowers, a simple pebbled yard with all sorts of dog-friendly gizmos and gadgets and, on certain occasions, a posh and brightly colored car, one can really get a feel of how the inhabitants of this picturesque town thrive. I was particularly jealous of the presence of the nice little nearby park otherwise known as Wiley Flats; the lush green had been suitably paired with some common playground equipment but was also given a funky modern twist with a three dimensional sculpture (at least that's what it looked like to me from afar!). Unfortunately I didn't have time to explore Wiley Flats, let alone take many pictures of it, so I'll have to do that when I next go to Yarm for lunch.

Yellow car in Yarm: perfection in simplicity captured

Romantic lighting on Wiley Flats Park

Chic and Stylish: Boutique-Mania 

You'd be crazy not to notice the sheer amount of boutiques and independent retailers there are in Yarm. From designer-branded pret-a-porter outfits to tailor-made designs, from delicately hand-crafted or picked creations to locally-produced delights, Yarm was certainly a classy place to shop in for all fashionistas or in general shop-a-holics (like myself). The sleek and slender, multicolored wooden frames that supported the glass forming the shops' windows helped to further reinforce its prim and proper nature. You can even find restaurants hidden inside these boutiques serving classic English delicacies; staying in a shop for the whole day is definitely an option. At the same time, there were more commonly heard of stores like Sainsbury's and Costa Coffee.

Brightly colored shops with an eclectic range of products - Yarm's high street at its best

Little cafes providing food cooked to perfection - characteristic of Yarm

The combination of boutiques and large company managed shops was, for me, a perfect balance. Whether you're looking for the perfect d wedding or prom dress, a quirky tea set or even some simple but vital groceries, it was just the matter of going from one shop to, literally, the next to find all of the above. What really did it for me were the tiny, independent cafes. A simple grilled panini with a bit of salad and some homemade nachos had my stomach grinning from ear to ear, and being able to enjoy it whilst listening and watching people chat away about what was going on in their life truly had me giving the atmosphere a five star rating.

The quirky boutiques of Yarm

It was the epitome of a shopper's paradise

And, to a certain extent, a big contrast to the place where I'm living which is jam-packed with charity shops (very ideal for a student budget like mine in my opinion though). The cars were also interestingly parked on a cobbled path that lay directly in between the road and the pedestrian's path. If you go during the academic year, like now, you'd also witness the shadows of Yarm's finest secondary school students, strolling casually on the high street during lunchtime in crisp and clean suits. I felt like I'd entered a parallel world only a stop or two by train away from my place.

Dresses from the family-run business, Strickland & Holt, established since 1854

From beyond the looking glass windows of the cafe

There were some similarities however. The atmosphere was just as lively and friendly, and the town hall/ clock tower was pretty much identical architecturally. The differences were what made Yarm a special place for me, along with the good weather. It's officially my little getaway when I feel like indulging myself in the materialistic world after a stressful week at uni, without a doubt.

The perfect lunch for a glorious day in Yarm