PARISIAN CHARM

Aroma's Noosa

On Saturday I took my mum and her friend to one of my favourite cafes along Hastings Street in Noosa. Aroma's has become a popular spot with its Parisian-style wicker chairs and mini marble top tables. It's also a great place to relax, enjoy an almond croissant and watch the passing parade. A tiny part of Paris right on Noosa's doorstep.

It has been a month since I began Raincheck for Timbuktu and I would like to thank all of you for your words of support and encouragement. A huge thank you also to my good friend, Aleena, for my lovely banner. And don't forget to follow me on Instagram.

SUNDAY LOVE

Surfers Paradise skyline from Coolangatta - Coffee thickshakes - Black Coffee Lyrics flat white - Big breakfast

I took these photos during our Gold Coast adventures last weekend. In between a drive to Coolangatta and incredible thickshakes, we ventured to Black Coffee Lyrics for Sunday breakfast. The cafe is in the heart of Surfers Paradise down a slightly sketchy alleyway. Don't let the location fool you though, once inside it's hard to believe you're still in Surfers. Eclectic and modern art lined the brick walls and long wooden tables filled the establishment. During the morning breakfast rush, the cafe was buzzing with energy. My camera died before I could take a photo but my brekky, the bircher muesli, was amazing and came served in a jar. If you go make sure to order the bircher and a flat white. Sunday morning perfection.

PORTLANDIA

Washington Park - International Rose Test Garden - Gardens - Apricot Rose  

PDX, P-Town, Stumptown, City of Roses. Next stop on our US trip was Portland, Oregon. Ace Hotel in the historical Pearl District was our residence for three days. Ace was a mix of modern and eclectic style, reasonable price too considering the area. There was an old school photobooth in the lobby and Stumptown Coffee Roasters next door. Needless to say, I was in love. Pearl was abundant with refurbished boutiques, cafes and art galleries. Powell’s City of Books, America’s largest independent bookstore, became my haven. We spent most of our time there and for lunch we’d head to Saint Cupcake for a salted caramel special. I discovered salted caramel in Seattle and became addicted. Voodoo Doughnut in Old Town was also a kooky place for a sweet treat and close to Portland’s trademark White Stag sign. We ventured to Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden on our last day. The flowers were stunning and smelt incredible. From the gardens we also had a view of Mount Hood. Even in summer the peak was covered in snow. Universal was filming NBC’s Grimm during our visit too which added to my excitement. Portland certainly had its quirks but was filled with a unique vibe. It was an entertaining city and a must-do in the Pacific Northwest.