Porto, Portugal's second largest city, is a captivating blend of old world charm and modern vibrancy. Nestled along the Douro River, this hilly city offers a unique experience for travellers. Join me as I recount my adventure in this enchanting destination.

Getting There and Around
My journey began with a Ryanair flight touching down in Porto. Once in the city, I quickly learned that the Andante Card is a traveller's best friend. This rechargeable card works for buses, metro and some trains, making it easy to navigate Porto's public transport system. A 45-minute train ride from the airport brought me to the heart of the city .

Tip: Purchase an Andante card at the airport and load it with enough trips for your stay. It'll save you time and hassle during your exploration.

​Accomodation: Lost Inn Hostel
I stayed at the Lost Inn Hostel, a charming place that I'd recommend to fellow travellers. However, a word of caution: Porto's famous hills make themselves known right away! The steep climb to the hostel with my luggage was quite the workout.

Tip: Pack light if you can, or consider taking a taxi for that initial journey if you have heavy luggage.

​Architectural Marvels: 
São Bento Station
No visit to Porto is complete without a stop at São Bento station. This isn't just a transport hub; it's a living museum. The station's atrium is adorned with roughly 20,000 azulejo tiles depicting scenes from Portuguese history. Even if you are not catching a train, it's worth a visit just to admire the artistry.

​Capela das Almas
A short walk from São Bento, I stumbled upon the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls). This church stopped me in my tracks with its exterior completely covered in blue and white azulejo tiles. The scenes depicted on the tiles tell stories from the lives of various saints, creating a mesmerizing blue tapestry against the urban landscape.

​Elevador da Ribeira
The Elevador da Ribeira is a unique piece of urban engineering in Porto. This funicular railway connects the Ribeira district at the riverside with the higher parts of the city. It's not just a means of transport but also offers fantastic views of the city and the Douro River. 

​Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
The Porto Cathedral is one of the city's oldest monuments. This 12th-century Romanesque church sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Its fortress-like exterior reflects its historical role as both a place of worship and a defensive structure. Inside, you will find beautiful cloisters with azulejo tiles depicting scenes from the Song of Solomon. Their terrace offers panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
Igreja de Santo Idefonso is another gem showcasing Porto's love for azulejo tiles. The church's facade is covered in intricate blue and white tiles, creating a stunning visual effect. It is a perfect example of how even everyday building in Porto can be works of art.

Unique Streets of Porto:
The Street Art Rabbit
While wandering the streets of Porto, I stumbled upon an unexpected sight - a large rabbit mural made entirely of trash. This piece, created by Portuguese artist Bordalo II, is part of his "big Trash Animals" series. It is a striking example of hotw Porto embraces urban art, turning even discarded items into something beautiful and thought-provoking.

​Rua das Flores
Rua das Flores is one of Porto's most charming streets. Once home to wealthy merchants and goldsmiths, it is now a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare lined with cafes, shops and street performers. It is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and people watching.

​Livraria Lello
No visit to Porto is complete without a stop at Livraria Lello, often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. with its Neo-Gothic facade and stunning Art Nouveau interior featuring a grand staircase, stained glass ceiling and ornate bookshelves. It is easy to see why this bookstore is so famous.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance and arrive early to avoid long queues. The unique book covers you will find here make for great souvenirs.

Culinary Adventures:
Bifana: A Portuguese Classic
In a cozy homely cafe near my hostel, I had my first encounter with Porto's local delicacy, the Bifana sandwich. This traditional sandwich consists of thinly sliced pork marinated in a blend of spices and white wine, then served in a soft roll. The simplicity of this dish belies its delicious flavour - it quickly became one of my favourite meals in Porto.

Confeitaria do Bolhão
For a taste of old-world charm, I visited Confeitaria do Bolhão. This vintage cafe feels like stepping back in time. The art nouveau decor and traditional pastries make it a perfect spot for a mid-afternoon treat. Don't miss trying pastel de nata (custard tart) - it's a Portuguese classic.

Café Majestic
Near Confeitaria do Bolhão, you'll find the famous Café Majestic. Opened in 1921, this Art Nouveau gem is considered one of the most beautiful cafes in the world. With its ornate interiors, gilded frames and leather upholstery, stepping into cafe majestic feels like travelling back in time to the Belle Époque. Café Majestic is famous for its Francesinha - a Porto invention consisting of layers of ham, sausage and steak between two slices of bread, covered with melted cheese and a spicy tomato and beer sauce. It's often served with a side of fries. While it is a must-try for many visitors, I found it a bit too rich for my taste.

​Mercado do Bolhão
The recently renovated Mercado do Bolhão is a must-visit for food lovers. This two-storey market is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheese and local specialties. It's a great place to sample local products and soak in the lively atmosphere of a traditional Portuguese market.

Mercado Beira Rio
I took a stroll through Mercado Beira Rio, a renovated market space. While I didn't eat there, the vibrant atmosphere and array of local products made for an interesting visit. It's a great place to get a feel for local life and perhaps pick up some Portuguese specialties to take home.

​Pastel de Bacalhau
Near Mercado Beira Rio, I discovered a shop selling a unique local delicacy - pastel de bacalhau. This is a bread pastry filled with codfish and often served with a glass of port wine. The combination of flavours is truly exquisite and a must-try for any visitor to Porto.

The Colourful World of Canned Fish
One of the most visually striking shops I encountered near Pastel de Bacalhau. This vibrant store specialises in canned sardines, with each tin labeled by year. The bright, retro-style graphics make these tins collector's items in their own right. It's a feast for the eyes and a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. 

Unexpected Beauty: Tiled Starbucks and McDonald's
Even chain establishments in Porto embrace the city's love for azulejo tiles. The local Starbucks features beautiful mosaic tilework, while the McDonald's on Avenida dos Aliados is housed in a stunning Art Deco building. It is considered one of the most beautiful McDonald's in the world and even serves beer.

​Sunset Views
One of my favourite experiences was climbing the steep, narrow alleys to reach one of Porto's famous viewpoints, also known as Miradouros. The climb was challenging, but the reward was a breathtaking sunset view over the city and the Douro River. The golden light washing over Porto's terracotta roofs creates a scene that I won't forget. 

Tip: The Miradouro da Vitória and Miradouro da Serra do pilar both offer stunning panoramic views. Bring a camera and arrive before sunset to secure a good spot.

​Cais da Ribeira
For a perfect end to the day, I took a walk along Cais da Ribeira. This picturesque riverfront promenade is lined with colourful traditional houses, bustling cafes and restaurants. As the sun sets, the area comes alive with street performers and diners enjoying al fresco meals. The view of the Dom Luis I Bridge illuminate at night is truly spectacular

Final Thoughts
Porto is a city that continually surprises and delights. From its famous tiled facades to unexpected street art, from traditional bifanas to ornate cafes, every corner seems to hold a new discovery. Where you are admiring the view from Jardim do Morro, exploring the stacks at Livraria Lello, or simply enjoying a pastel de bacalhau by the river, Porto offers a rich tapestry of experiences that will leave you longing to return. Just remember to bring comfortable walking shoes - those hills are non joke!

​Taipei, a city that never sleeps, offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. My recent trip to this vibrant capital was filled with unforgettable experiences, delicious food and exciting discoveries. Let me take you through some of the highlights!

Xi Men Ding 西門町: Pop Culture and Culinary Delights
My first stop was Xi Men Ding, often called the "Harajuku of Taipei". This bustling area is a haven for pop culture enthusiasts and foodies alike. The huge Popmart store was a treasure trove for collectors of cute figurines and merchandise.

​But the real stars of Xi Men Ding were the local delicacies. I indulged in some of the best Lu Rou Fan 卤肉饭 (braised pork rice) I've ever tasted. The tender, flavourful mince pork over perfectly steamed rice was comfort food at its finest. And let's not forget the oyster omelette 蚵仔煎 - a crispy savoury treat that's a must try for any visitor.

​Chi Feng Street 赤峰街: A Hipster's Paradise
Venturing into Chi Feng Street (heard the locals also call it Yong Kang Street 永康街) was like stepping into a different world. This area is a delightful mix of old and new, with traditional buildings housing trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.

Chi Feng Street is renowned for its artistic vibe and unique shopping experiences. From handmade crafts to vintage clothes, there's something for every style-conscious visitor. Do check out my TikTok account where I share more detailed recommendations about the coolest shops in Chi Feng Street!
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A Hidden Gem: Da Dao Cheng Lu Rou Fan 大稻埕肉飯
Near Chi Feng Street and Taipei Main Station 台北車站, I stumbled upon a culinary gem - Da Dao Cheng Lu Rou Fan. This tiny stall serves some of the most delicious braised pork rice in the city. The meat is tender and flavourful, with just the right amount of fat, and the sauce perfectly complements the rice. It's a testament to how sometimes the best food comes from the most unassuming places.

​Night Market Adventures: Ning Xia 寧夏夜市 and Rao He 饒河街觀光夜市
No trip to Taipei is complete without exploring its famous night markets. I visited both Ning Xia and Rao He night markets, and the experience was nothing short of exhilarating. The crowds were intense, and the queues for the popular stalls seemed endless, but it was all part of the charm.

​At Ning Xia, I braved the lines for their famous oyster mee sua 蚵仔麵線 and flame-grilled beef cubes. Rao He, on the other hand, tempted me with its iconic pepper buns with pork 胡椒餅. The aromas, the sizzling sounds, and the vibrant atmosphere made for an unforgettable sensory experience.

Final Thoughts
Taipei is a city that captivates with its unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. From the trendy streets of Xi Men Ding, to the artistic alleys of Chi Feng Street, from hidden food stalls to bustling night markets, every corner of this city has a story to tell. My short trip was a whirlwind of flavours, sights and sounds that I'll cherish for years to come. If you are planning a visit to Taipei, prepare your taste buds and your walking shores - you are in for an incredible adventure!

Next, it was time for the quintessential experience for every tourist that visit Paris - the Eiffel Tower. But first, I sought out the perfect photo op. Based on social media recommendations, I headed to Rue de l’Universite. To get there, take Metro Line 8 to Ecole Militaire station, then walk west on Rue de l’Universite. About halfway between Champ de Mars and Avenue de la Bourdannais, you’ll find the iconic view of the Eiffel Tower framed by Haussmannian buildings. However, do get there early because I reached at noon and it was packed with people.

I then took the scenic route via Metro Line 6. This line runs partially above ground, and the stretch between Bir-Hakeim and Passy stations offers a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower as the train crosses the Seine on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Face the right side if you are heading towards Charles de Gaulle Etoile; left side if you are heading towards Nation

​Inspired by the metro journey, I embarked on a tour of Paris’ most beautiful metro stations - Arts et Metiers, Concorde and Abbessess. Arts et Metiers is a steampunk dream, designed to resemble a submarine in homage to Jules Verne. Concorde features a tiled word puzzle of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Abbessess, one of the deepest stations in Paris, is known for its Art Nouveau entrance and spiral staircase adorned with murals.

As my Parisian adventure comes to an end, I headed back to the hostel to prepare for my early flight to Porto. I’m taking Ryanair from Paris Beauvais Airport in the wee hours of the morning, and it’s very far from the city centre. To get there, I took a shuttle bus from Porte Maillot (Metro Line 1). These buses are timed to coincide with flight departures and take about 75 minutes, and cost €16.90.

​Next, I ventured into the iconic Louvre Museum. Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa, the Louvre is the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument in itself.

​The afternoon took me to the trendy Marais district for some window shopping. This neighbourhood is a fashion lover’s paradise, boasting a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and cool indie stores. Some of my favourite stores were Merci, a concept store known for its eclectic mix of fashion and home goods, and A.P.C., a French ready-to-wear brand famous for its minimalist designs.

​As evening approached, I made my way to Montmartre to catch the beautiful sunset at Sacre-Coeur Basilica. The funicular at Montmartre takes you from the bottom of the hill up to Sacre-Coeur in 90 seconds and cost €1.90. The white-domed church, perched atop the highest hill in Paris, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. I climbed the steps to the basilica, taking in the beautiful cityscape below. The famous Sinking House of Paris, a quirky building that seems to defy gravity with its slanted structure, except it’s due to the angle of how the photo is taken, is also located besides Sacre-Coeur.

My Parisian adventure began as I touched down at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). From CDG, I made my way to my accommodation, The People Hostel - Bercy. To get there, I took the Roissybus service, a cost-effective and scenic option that connects CDG to the city centre. A one-way ticket cost €13.50, with frequency every 15-20 minute, stopping at Opera Garnier. From there, I took the metro to Bercy station, just a short walk to the hostel.

​Stopping at Opera Garnier, I caught glimpse of some of Paris’ iconic sights. The opulent Opera Garnier, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece houses the Paris Opera and the Paris Opera Ballet. I also passed by the grand Printemps store, with its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.

Eager to dive into Parisian life, I headed straight to Marché Bastille, a farmers market that opens from 7am-3pm every Thursday and Sunday. The vibrant market offers a feast for the senses with stalls overflowed with fresh produce, fragrant flowers, bric-a-brac and array of local delicacies. I couldn’t resist trying some classic French fare - crispy crepes, fresh seafood and hearty Choucroute (a traditional Alsatian dish of sauerkraut and various meats).

​After the market, I took a leisure stroll along the Seine River. The banks of the Seine are a UNESCO World Heritage site, lined with historic buildings and crossed by beautiful bridges. Along the way, I stumbled upon many charming little bookstores, also known as Les Bouquinistes.

​A trip to Paris would not be complete without a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece has been a symbol of Paris for centuries. Unfortunately, it’s currently undergoing extensive restoration following a devastating fire in April 2019 that destroyed its roof and spire. Despite the scaffolding, the cathedral’s grandeur is still evident, and it was moving to see this historic landmark in the process of being reborn.

​My first day concluded with a visit to City Pharma. This famous pharmacy located in the Saint-Germain-des-Pres area, is a hidden gem for beauty and skincare enthusiasts. City Pharma is renowned for its extensive selection of French beauty and skincare brands at discounted prices. It’s often crowded with locals and tourists alike.

Despite the sometimes chaotic atmosphere, City Pharma is a must-visit for anyone looking to stock up on French beauty secrets. From cult favourites like Biafine and A313 retinol to Bioderma, Nuxe and La Roche Posay, the shelves are often stocked with products that are often much pricier outside of France. Check out my TikTok account to see my highly raved products!

With my arms full of skincare treasures, I concluded my first day in Paris. The City of Light had already begun to work its magic, and I couldn’t wait to see what the next few days would bring.

I took the earliest flight to Kuala Lumpur and landed at KLIA 2. Despite my fatigue from waking up early in the morning, the city’s vibrant energy was immediately apparent, with its glittering skyline visible even from the airport.

I hopped into a Grab car (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) for the 45-minute drive to my hotel in the city centre, Bukit Bintang. I shall not name the hotel for it wasn’t the most pleasant stay I had. The driver’s friendly chatter and glimpses of markets and bustling streets along the way gave me a taste of the lively culture I was about to experience.

After an arduous check-in at the hotel, I was tempted to crash. However, I had a better plan to combat my fatigue and start my trip on the right foot - a visit to Sakura Spa, located 10 mins away from my hotel.
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Sakura Spa isn’t your typical day spa - it’s a full-fledged relaxation haven where you can easily spend an entire day (or night) pampering yourself.

While the core of their offerings is, of course, their rejuvenating massages, the facility boasts a jacuzzi and sauna, karaoke rooms, pool and darts games, Nintendo and PlayStation consoles and movie rooms. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all presented in an appealing buffet style. Each meal time brings a fresh array of dishes, catering to diverse palates and dietary needs. One standout feature of the buffet is the Malaysian street food favourite: Lok Lok. One can select and cook to your liking in a communal hot pot. The fun of choosing your own skewers and cooking them adds an element of fun to the buffet meals.

Day 2: From Michelin dining to local gems

I started my second day in KL on a leisurely note, heading out for lunch at Nobu, a Michelin-starred restaurant. In KL, Nobu offers a surprisingly affordable experience for their set lunch at MYR160++. However, despite it’s reputation, the meal was somewhat disappointing. Even the highly-acclaimed black cod miso failed to impress. It’s possible my unrefined palate couldn’t fully appreciate the nuances, but the overall experience fell short of expectations.

​​After lunch, I made my way to RexKL, a unique destination in the heart of the city. RexKL is a repurposed cinema that has been transformed into a vibrant community space. This small but distinctive mall houses a collection of indie stores, creative spaces and local businesses.

While at RexKL, I spent a few captivating hours at BookXcess. This is not your average bookstore - BookXcess is a book lover’s paradise known for offering a wide range of books at discounted prices. It’s part of a Malaysian chain that specialised in remaindered books, allowing them to sell titles at 50-80% off the recommended retail price. The store’s vast collection spans various genres, making it easy to lose track of time while browsing their well-stocked shelves.

​​A short walk from Central Market is Petaling Street, KL’s bustling Chinatown. Here, I found myself surrounded by a lively market atmosphere and surprisingly, enjoyed street food that surpassed my earlier experience at Nobu. The area was alive with vendors, shoppers, and the enticing aromas of local cuisine.

As night fell, I made my way to the vibrant Jalan Alor night market, a food lover’s paradise that comes alive after dark. Once a red light district, Jalan Alor has transformed into one of the most famous food street in KL. As you walk down this bustling street, you’re greeted by a sensory overload - the sizzle of woks, aroma of grilled meats and chatter of diners seated at plastic tables that spill out onto the street. I couldn’t resist trying more Lok Lok, with the wide variety of ingredients and dipping sauces made each bite a new adventure. For dessert, I sampled Putu Piring, a traditional Malay sweet treat. These steamed rice flour cakes filled with gula Melaka (palm sugar) and served with grated coconut are a delightful balance of textures and flavours.

The Jalan Alor night market isn’t just about the food; it’s an experience in itself. Along the sidewalks, vendors from massage shops (clean!) and bars called out to passerbys, the mix of locals and tourists, and the late night energy of Bukit Bintang all contribute to its charm.

Last Day: Local crafts, furry friends and a flavourful farewell

One my final day in KL, I packed in a few more experiences before catching my flight home.

My first stop was Kedai KL, a hidden gem in the city. Kedai, which means “shop” in Malay, is a unique concept store that showcases the best of Malaysian design and craftsmanship. Located in a renovated shophouse, Kedai KL is a curated space that brings together products from local artisans, designers and small businesses. It’s also an excellent place to pick up souvenirs that go beyond the usual tourist trinkets, supporting local makers in the process.

​As my time in KL drew to a close, I headed to the airport for one last taste of local flavours at Oriental Kopi. This popular chain is a fixture at KLIA 2, with at least 2 outlets in the terminal. I had the fragrant nasi lemak, washing it off with a cup of strong, aromatic white coffee.

This final meal at Oriental Kopi was a fitting end to my weekend KL trip, reminding me of the city’s rich culinary traditions. As I boarded my flight, the lingering taste of Malaysia’s white coffee and nasi lemak served as a flavourful farewell to this vibrant city.