6 Foods To Eat In Malmö Sweden

9th May 2024
Scott
Sweden, Travel

30 January 2023

6 Things to Eat In Malmö Sweden

Have you ever heard of Malmö Sweden? If I’m honest, it was not on my radar as the first Swedish city to visit.. but I’m glad I did, as I had some seriously great food. So I’m sharing six things you need to eat when you visit Malmö Sweden.

Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden (behind Stockholm and Gothenburg. (It’s the 6th largest city in Scandinavia) Thanks to the Öresund Bridge and tramline, Getting to Malmö is super easy to get to and from Copenhagen. Trains run every 20 minutes, and the journey takes about 40 minutes, making it a perfect addition to a trip to Copenhagen.

The city itself is super charming with a cobblestone square lined with cafes called Lilla Torg. Throughout the city, half-timbered houses and shops are selling local handicrafts. If architecture is your thing… there is an incredible library, and Santiago Calatrava’s neo-futuristic skyscraper (the Turning Torso) is worth a visit. If history is your thing… visit Malmö Castle. Its 6th-century fortress was built by King Christian III of Denmark and houses nature, history, and art exhibits.

But you came here for the food right? Read all about 6 things to eat in Malmö Sweden.

6 things To Eat In Malmö Sweden

Semla Buns

Would you believe that this was my first ever Semla? For the uninitiated.. semla is a Swedish cardamom yeast bun stuffed with very soft marzipan, topped with a ton of whipped cream, and finished with a dusting of icing sugar. This beauty was from Kondatori Hollandia.

Yes, Swedish people adore them. But so do Norwegians, Danes & Finns. They are sometimes served with jam instead of marzipan in Norway and Finland. ⁠

⁠A semla is a seasonal bun that traditionally starts around Shrove Tuesday and disappears at Easter. These days, most places start in January. ⁠

Fun fact: It used to be illegal to serve a semla outside of the accepted period in Sweden.

Hollandia
Södra Förstadsgatan 8, 211 43 Malmö, Sweden

Meatballs

As cliche as it sounds… the one thing that I wanted to eat in Sweden was meatballs. ⁠⠀⁠⠀

I asked around and a couple of locals suggested that I go to Ikea . Apparently, they are home food and not typically served in restaurants.

I might have struck gold in finding a restaurant serving them in Malmö… Bullen is next door to Hollandia where I had the semla bun. The meatballs were big and meaty… the gravy was divine. Loved the pickles and the lingonberry compote. Such a filling meal.. and regrettably I don’t think that I could look at Ikea meatballs the same again. ⁠⠀

I am ruined for all future Swedish Meatballs by Bullen. ⁠⠀

TOP TIP: This place got super busy right at lunchtime. I arrived at 12 on the dot and got a seat. Arrive early to avoid a wait.

Bullen
Storgatan 35, 211 41 Malmö, Sweden

Fika

Fika is translated as “a coffee and cake break”, which is sort of correct. As pretentious as this sounds, Fika is a concept, a state of mind, an attitude, and an important part of Swedish culture. Many Swedes consider that it is almost essential to make time for Fika every day. It means making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee and a little something to eat.

I stopped for my Fika at St Jakob’s and had this delectable Coconut top. It was very much a Goldilocks moment as it was the PERFECT coconut delight. Not too sweet, Not too dry just perfect with a cup of excellent coffee.

FUN FACT: The word fika actually derives from the 19th-century slang word for coffee: kaffi. Invert the word kaffi, and you get fika.

Gibraltargatan 3, 211 18 Malmö, Sweden

Pizza

Is there a food that you like… but don’t love it enough to order all the time? ⁠

Yep, that’s me with pizza Don’t Hate on me, please! I like pizza but there are so many other things id choose to eat first…..⁠⠀

That was until I had this pizza from Hedvigsdal Vedugn & Vin at Malmö Saluhall. Don’t know what makes is so incredible …it had the perfect sourdough crust with a dreamy chew. Creme Fraiche, smoked mozzarella, roasted potatoes, capers, lemon zest, rosemary and ?BROWN BUTTER ?⁠⠀

If I could have this pizza every day… it would be my number one crush. The sad thing is this was just a daily special, It’s safe to say that if this one-off pizza could make me swoon, all the specials would. ⁠⠀

I fell in love with this pizza sooo much I attempted to recreate it at home. Here is my recipe for Brown Butter and Rosemary Potato Pizza.

TOP TIP: Malmö Saluhall is a food hall with incredible looking producer and food stalls. If i had more time (and more room in my stomach i would eaten more)

Malmö Saluhall
Gibraltargatan 6, 211 18 Malmö, Sweden

Burgers

I hear ya… Burgers in Sweden… Yep.. this burger rivaled some of my favs in London. Just look at this burger from Surf Shack in Malö… look how stacked it is. ⁠⠀

It is kinda like a love child between Shake Shack & Five Guys, so it was hitting my sweet spot. You can completely customize your burgers using fresh local ingredients. ⁠⠀You choose your bun style… they have sweet, savory, gluten-free, and a lettuce wrap. ⁠⠀
You choose your protein. I doubled up… but you can do beef and crispy chicken. ⁠⠀
You choose your toppings… I went with double cheese and bacon. ⁠⠀
Then your sauces and veg. ⁠Then you eat and make a beautiful mess of yourself. ⁠⠀

TOP TIP: Order the garlic fries as they are as fit as this burger.⁠⠀

They Have 2 locations in Malmö
Surf Shack
Västergatan 9A, 211 21 Malmö, Sweden

Baked Goods

To say that Swedes do great baked goods is kinda an understatement… Cardamon Buns & Semla are kinda the stars of the show… but I loved these Punschrulle or Dammsugare (which translates to vacuum cleaner) referring to how they are made by the bakers. They collect crumbs and stale cookies for the decadent filling. ⠀

The Center is this truffle like mixture of crushed biscuits, butter & cocoa that’s doused in liqueur. Then they are covered in green marzipan and the ends are dipped in chocolate⠀

I found these at Konditori Katarina , but you can find them in most Swedish bakeries. ⠀

FUN FACT: You can get these by the box in IKEA, but the saying is true everything tastes better locally.

Konditori Katarina
Hamngatan 4, 211 22 Malmö, Sweden

Other Eats

There were loads of other things that i wanted to eat in Malmö, but ran out of time. Falafel is HUGE thanks to the large middle eastern immigrants.

I wanted to eat at Bastard. Apparently, it’s the place to see and be seen in Malmö. I was less excited about the status but more thrilled by the cooking here is of the nose-to-tail eating school, Hello pig’s feet, or boudin blanc with some expertly crafted cocktails.

Also on my list was the uber-chic local bistro, Lyran to nosh on some dreamy dishes using ingredients such as birch sap elixir, local goat’s cheese, wild duck, Swedish fallow deer, and Sea buckthorn.

So how delicious is this list of 6 Things to eat in Malmö Sweden?

Moro Boutique Hotel, Marrakech Morocco

7th May 2024
Scott
Morocco, Travel

07 May 2024

Moro Boutique Hotel Marrakech, Morocco

I’ve been to Marrakech about six times. When I’ve visited Marrakesh in the past, I’ve stayed at a load of places: a super budget room in the Médina, a Nice resort near Agdal, a private riad in the Médina, a resort in Hivernage… but my favourite place by far has been The Moro Boutique Hotel in Marrakech.

It feels like staying in a riad, but you get a tastefully designed suite instead of having a room.

The Neighbourhood

The Moro Boutique Hotel is located in the Gueliz area of Marrakech; Gueliz is the new town with modern businesses and wide streets, It’s also home to the Majorelle Garden and YSL museum ( both are next door to the Moro Boutique Hotel.

It’s a great location if you don’t want to stay in the intoxicating buzzy medina. That said, The medina is about 15 minutes by foot.

Hotel Otella Interiors
Hotel Otella Interiors
Public Spaces
Interior Design
Love the almost brutalist design
Idustrial Vibes

The Design

You all know that I’m a sucker for design, and the MOro Boutique Hotel in Marrakech will be a visual joy! It began its renovaton in 2019, ready to launch in 2020, and that year did not go to plan.

Design-wise, it draws inspiration from 70s architecture and exudes the vibrant ambience of a vintage Marrakech with a splash of the laid-back allure of Palm Springs.

there are only 10 suites in the hotel, and each of them are designed and laid out slightly differently

The Rooms

Room Detail s
Room with a view
Shower
Window Chaise
Love the almost brutalist design
Bedroom vibes

Think buff plastered walls, authentic Moroccan textiles, low-slung sofas, metal tables, crisp white linens, and bits of supple leather here and there. The colour palette is a dream of greys, browns and white.

There are several categories of suites… I selected a pool-facing suite, which meant I could be out of my door and in the pool in less than 30 seconds.

The suites are divided over two floors with the living downstairs and the bedroom and bathroom are upstairs,

The main design feature in the living room is the round windows with a settee. There were low-slung sofas and pieces of Morrocan, And I had to say the A/c was incredible.

The second floor has an open-plan wardrobe and super comfortable beds with the crispest white sheets. There was also a vintage armchair and table

My bathroom had a walk-in waterfall shower, intoxicating-smelling toiletries, and a gorgeous pink tiled floor. One of the things I love the most is that my window overlooks Majorelle Garden.

It’s worth noting that most of the art pieces could be purchased or something similar from their concept store.

Honey Custard Tart

The Food and Drink

They serve breakfast daily by the pool. Every day was similar, but there were little variations. Always a fried egg, with freshly made breads like Round Khobz Bread, Msemmen, Beghrir and Harcha. There was the thickest yoghurt and a small selection of pastries served with tea, coffee and juice. It was the perfect start to the day.

Chalk Stream trout tartare
Potato Crab & Mushroom
St Austell Mussles Artichokes

There is also a small restaurant behind the concept shop. They serve home-style Moroccan cuisine that’s excellent value for the price in a chic little secluded courtyard.

To start, I had a selection of salads… including one of the best aubergine dishes I’ve had in my life (I normally am a bit meh about aubergine), a potato, tuna, and caper salad, and a pepper salad. All were delish. For mains, I had creamy chicken served over a bed of cauliflower couscous, washed down with a beautiful bergamot and orange blossom drink.

The Gym
The Gym
Mikes

The Extras

There is a Yoga Studio onsite that you can book into

There is also a really chic concept shop that blends the essence of Moroccan tradition with modernity. Some of the pieces you see in your room can be purchased in-store

While they do not provide TVs in your rooms, they offer complimentary Wi-Fi for your entertainment needs. During my stay, I found this to be a refreshing change, allowing me to fully unwind and disconnect.

They also arrange airport transfers which is super fandy

Moro Concept Shop
Moro Concept Shop
Textile Studio and Yoga Centre

The Damage

My Junior Suite with a pool view is currently starting at about £141 per night booked directly through the hotel. I was able to find slightly cheaper offers thought booking platforms.

The Final Thought

I loved that the owners have a passion for art and design and it’s reflected in the room decor and overall vibe of the small resort.

I think it’s the perfect location—away from the hustle and bustle of the Médina but far out in a mega-resort where you are one of the hundreds of guests.

I can’t stress enough how highly I recommend this hotel. I will definitely choose to stay there on my next visit to Marrakesh.

Moro Boutique Hotel

The Details

Moro Boutique Hotel
Dalia, Av. Yacoub El Mansour,
Marrakech 40090, Morocco

Instagram

31.64136645295755,-8.002411169318496

Moro Boutique Hotel

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Hotel Otlilla

5th May 2024
Scott
Denmark, Travel

06 May 2024

Hotel Otillia

Luxury Boutique Hotel, Copenhagen, Denmark

Are you hunting for the perfect hotel for your weekend in Copenhagen?
A hotel that has style, without being achingly hip?
A luxe hotel that won’t break the bank?
A hotel that’s super convenient to most everything you would like to see in the City, without being in a cramped date hotel?
A hotel that has a unique history and a new lease on life?

If you answered yes to any of those questions… I have found the perfect Boutique Hotel in Copenhagen that fits that bill. Say Hello to Hotel Otilla. Hotel Otilla is part of Denmark’s Brochner Hotels collection of Luxury hotels. They have several hotels in Copenhagen; I would assume that my experience will be similar at most of their locations.

The Neighbourhood

Hotel Otillia is situated in Carlsberg City, a new neighbourhood that’s being developed on the former Carlsberg brewery site.

The whole neighbourhood is up-and-coming… which means it’s not awash with bars and restaurants just yet. There are a few and a local grocery store, so you are not isolated. If you are like me, you get excited to see an area’s potential, plus you can say I was there before it became hip.

Central Station and Tivoli are about 15 minutes away on public transport, and the nearest train station is about a 5-minute walk from the hotel.

Hotel Otella Interiors
Hotel Otella Interiors
Public Spaces
Interior Design
Love the almost brutalist design
Idustrial Vibes

The Design

The hotel is converted from two disused brewery buildings, with the iconic giant golden discs cladding the exterior. They have managed to keep loads of the original fixtures of the beer production and turned them into design features, like the old malt hopper, which has been converted to an infinity water feature in the lobby.

The design perfectly blends uber-chic industrial design with contemporary Scandi design elements. The overall aesthetic never feels cold, as industrial design can often feel. There are loads of little places to sit in the communal spaces, and everywhere you look, there is art, which I love. Take some time to explore the hotel; it’s a beaut.

The Rooms

Think raw concrete walls, metal tables, crisp white linens, and bits of supple leather here and there. The colour palette is a dream of greys, browns and white. The main design feature is the round windows with a leather seat. If I’m completely honest, the windows alone on this hotel. Most of the deluxe double bedrooms come with these… I would suggest that you request it when you book your room.

The beds were super comfortable, so much so that on both mornings, I decided that I needed to take advantage of the lie-in. The pillows and duvet are feather-free so perfect for allergy sufferers (Hello Me) The rooms are so sound proof, which is great for those light sleepers out there (Hello Me Again)

My bathroom was semi-open planned, and I looked onto the room. It had a spacious waterfall shower and came with the most luxe of Ren toiletries.

Room Detail s
Room with a view
Shower
Window Chaise
Love the almost brutalist design
Bedroom vibes

The Food and Drink

They serve breakfast in the top floor restaurant. I only had their breakfast offering as it was included in my rate… but after seeing what is on offer, if it was not included I would have happily paid the supplement to have it. Loads of options… little jars of warm scrambled eggs with sausages, platters of cheese and meat, little jars of overnight oats and housemate yoghurt, fruits, nuts, loads of breads and pastries, shots and smoothies…. it’s all organic, and most of it is house-made.

There is a lobby bar that specialises in gin… HELLO! Plus there is a daily wine hour (5 pm-6 pm) when you can sip a glass or two of red or white on the house. It was refreshing to see so many people taking advantage of that.. injecting a bit of social into a hotel stay wich is somewhat unique for boutique hotel in Copenhagen

The Extras

There is a gym…. No, I did not work out. I just went to have a nosy. They have thought of everything there. You can rent a bike, or if the gym is not your thing, you can borrow an in-room fitness kit. I was also surmised that you can check in via an app on your phone… then wait for it…use your phone as your room key…..Welcome to 2020.

There is free Wi-Fi, and the rooms have Google Chromecast. There are loads of USB plugs, so you can leave the adapters back in the UK.

The Gym
The Gym
Mikes
Industrial Design
Amazing design details
Wine Hour

The Damage

My Deluxe Double with Round Window room costs about DKK 1.157,00 (£133) in the high season for advance purchase.

It’s brilliant value for money, and I would go back for the wine hour alone.

The Final Thought

I adored the design; I loved that it was near enough to everything that i wanted to do in Copenhagen, without being in the throughs of the city centre.

The Details

Hotel Otilla
Bryggernes Plads 7,
1799 København, Denmark

55.66709492013415,12.533232819457496

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Torel 1884 – a Luxury Boutique Hotel for your stay in Porto, Portugal

28th April 2024
Scott
Portugal, Travel

28 April 2024

Torel 1884

Porto, Portugal

Torel 1884 – The perfect Luxury Boutique hotel for your stay in Porto.

Nestled in the heart of Porto, Portugal, Torel 1884 is a haven of luxury and charm that promises an unforgettable stay. The hotel’s elegant architecture, adorned with intricate details, immediately transports you to another era. It is an era where you still have a proper key to the door!

The historic building, a former palace dating back to 1884 (Hence the name), exudes a sense of grandeur that immediately transports you to a bygone era. Yet, despite its rich history, Torel 1884 effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern comforts.

Hotel Catalonia Lobby
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Reception

The Design

When I say that it’s a boutique hotel, I really mean it… There are only 11 rooms and suites in the former palace and another 12 apartments in a nearby building.

Each room is individually designed and celebrates Portuguese explorations, such as materials and animals that Portuguese explorers found and brought back from their voyages to distant lands.

Each of the rooms, suites and apartments are named after one of them, such as porcelain, tea, and exotic birds. The idea was to reproduce its origin through colours, materials, and works of art.

The Rooms

I reserved suite number 7 which celebrates tobacco leaf, from North America and Central America.. It was an odd choice for me, given my hate of tobacco, but it was the gorgeous peacock-hued walls that seduced me.

It’s classified as one of the superior double rooms. The room boasts soaring arched windows, peacock-hued walls, brass fixtures, subtle cane details throughout, and a rather large painting of Queen Victoria surrounded by cigars, as these were the only solution to her severe migraines.

The beds were super comfortable and the rooms are so soundproof, which is great for those light sleepers out there (Hello Me Again)

My bathroom was a marble affair with sumptuous robes and towls.

The room has a Nespresso coffee machine, Mini bar, Television, Free WiFi and Air conditioning

Hotel Catalonia Shower
Bedroom
Hotel Catalonia Bathroom
Hotel Catalonia Mini Bar
Hotel Catalonia Yoiliteries
Hotel Catalonia Desk

The Food And Drink

I did not have a chance to sample the food that they served in the restaurant as this was my last day in porto and i really underestimated how much food i wanted to eat in the town.

I can say that I had a nose around the on-site Bistro, and it looked gorgeous. Inspired by Bartolomeu Dias, the Portuguese navigator of the 15th century, the Bistro is a tribute to the great Portuguese explorers who roamed distant lands and seas. It is a chic and relaxed place to enjoy good wine, good food, and good conversation.

It’s a French bistro at heart, made with fresh Portuguese ingredients and, whenever possible, by local producers.

Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto

The Extras

Given the Torel 1884 is an ultra bijoux boutique hotel, there is no spa or pool. One suite does have a rooftop jacuzzi, though) The hotel does offer in-room therapies and treatments.

On the top floor, there is a stunning library under a arched glass roof with a vast collection of vintage books on design, history and pop culture. There is even Honesty Bar available for self-service consumption.

The Damage

My Superior Double room was €320 per night, booked directly through their website. They do have slightly discounted rates that are non-refundable, but they allow one free change up to four days before arrival.

Considering this is a Luxury Boutique hotel in Porto, it was not really budget-friendly, but I could easily justify every penny for the night that I stayed.

Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments
Rua Mouzinho da Silveira, N.º228Porto, 4050-417 Portugal

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Design Hotels, Hotels, porto, Portugal

7 Things To Do In Aarhus Denmark

2nd February 2021
Scott
Blog, Denmark, Journal, Travel

7 Things to do in Aarhus, Denmark

Aarhus is Denmarks’s second-largest city, the said it is pretty compact! It’s a historic city that remarkably feels like one cosy neighbourhood, where all of the things to see and do are within walking distance of each other. With incredible architecture, impressive galleries, and loads of food options I was more than sold. ⁠

You can fly to Aarhus directly from the UK, but I took a 3.5-hour train ride from Copenhagen so I could see the Danish countryside. ⁠⠀

1. Be Awe Struck by the Modern Architecture in Aarhus Ø

If modern architecture is your thing… Head to the new area of the regenerated dock area called Aarhus Ø.

The area is separated by canals with some seriously jaw-dropping architecture designed by top architects of the area. One of the most distinctive structures is the Iceberg by the Aarhus Ø waterfront.

In July and August, you can go for a swim or hang out at the new Harbor Bath, a vibrant meeting point and oasis. The Harbor Bath is designed by the famous Danish architect Bjarke Ingels Group BIG. The triangular floating complex comprises a rectangular 50-meter-long swimming pool, a circular diving pool, square children’s pools, and two saunas. Take a walk on the elevated plan walkway, which doubles as a viewing platform overlooking the pools and water beyond. The promenade deck is open 24 hours a day throughout the year.

2. Warm up in the Botanical Gardens

Coco Chanel said it best.. ‘The best things in life are free. The second best things are very, very expensive.’ ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
This applies to travel in Scandinavia. It’s really amazing, but it’s not cheap. That said there are some amazing things to do in Aarhus that are free. Like visiting the Science Museerne Botanical Gardens in Aarhus. It’s the biggest botanical garden in the world, but it’s pretty easy to spend a couple of hours seeing all the plants and staying warm and dry if it’s a bit cooler outside. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
They have brilliant tropical with a pretty amazing treehouse viewing platform where I took this London Kiwi Emma inspired shoefie. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
TOP TIP: The Botanic Gardens is next to the open-air museum Den Gamle By, aka Old Town. which is worth a visit too. Unfortunately, it’s not free. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀

3. Learn about Danish history in Den Gamle By

A list of 7 Things To Do In Aarhus Denmark is not complete without mentioning a visit to Den Gamle_By. Den Gamle By is an open-air museum devoted to the history of Aarhus and gives a great little insight into life throughout the ages in Denmark.

I learned so much about danish life through the ages. About the style of architecture and the craftwork that got its start in denmark.

But most importantly I learned the most important word in the Danish language. That’s Bageri. Yes, it means bakery… if you can’t remember that… Just look for the upside-down (IMO) pretzel sign and you know you have found one! ⁠

Gibraltargatan 3, 211 18 Malmö, Sweden

4. Check out the Street Food Scene

Hedvigsdal Vedugn & Vin Brown Butter & Rosemary Potato Pizza

Street food is everywhere these days. Street Food Aarhus is a collection of street food traders in a warehouse. Ver similar vibe to that of Street Feast in London.

All major foods are represented.. Pizzas, Burgers, Bao Buns, Thai, Chinese, Greek and even Ethiopian. I went for a rather impressive duck confit burger and a rather delicious chocolate chip cookie sundae.

Even at lunchtime in the dead of winter, I could tell that this place would have some serious vibes on weekend nights. Deffo a part of the young hip nightlife scene.

Aarhus Street Food
Ny Banegårdsgade 46, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

5. Soak in all the colours of Aarhus at Aros

Some of the best views of Aarhus are from the top of Aros Art Museum. Yes, they are through rainbow-tinted glass designed by Olafur Eliasson. But that’s a very good thing. ‘Your rainbow panorama’ is a 150-meter circular walkway parched on top of the museum. It was complete in 2011 and offers 360-degree views over Aarhus. To say it’s pretty spectacular is an understatement.

In addition to the Installation in the roof, ARoS has a large art collection with works from the Danish Golden Age until today, a changing selection of which are on display in the museum halls. Alongside, themed and changing exhibitions of both Danish and international artists are presented. I spent a good afternoon wandering through the exhibitions.

Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

6. Visit The Town Hall

Visit a town hall I hear you ask? Yes.. it’s not any ordinary town hall… It’s a Town Hall designed by Arne Jacobsen (The bunny Chair Designer). Completed in 1941, the hall’s interior features The interior features oaken parquet floors, ceramic tile floors in various patterns, bespoke designed wooden furniture, walls of glass and wood, and an incredible sweeping staircase .

Although its 75 years old, it still feels very modern, thanks to visionary Danish design. I took some of my favorite non-food photos I’ve ever taken. Not because I love my photos… just that this space was sooo incredibly beautiful. ⁠ ⁠

Rådhuspladsen 2. 8000 Aarhus C

7. Eat Stegt flæsk

One of the dishes I’ve been dying to eat in Denmark was Stegt flæsk. It’s not exclusive to Aarhus, but it was easier to find several restaurants serving it. Surprisingly difficult to find in Copenhagen.

It’s is a dish consisting of fried pork belly served with potatoes, white sauce with chopped parsley. The dish is sometimes translated as ‘pork strips’ or ‘crisp fried pork slices’.⁠⠀

The recipe and dish is orientated from the rural kitchens in Denmark in the beginning of 1800s – and has been a traditional everyday meal for generations of Danes.

Since the 2000s a tradition has emerged of eating stegt flæsk on election nights as a pun on the derogatory term valgflæsk (election pork) used to describe the lofty promises politicians make during their campaigns
⁠⠀
I think it’s just delicious. I devoured it from a restaurant called Pinden. It was billed as all you can eat… but it was a struggle to finish of.

Pinden
Skolegade 29, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

Other things to do in Aarhus

There were loads of other things that you can do in Aarhus. It’s such an easy city to navigate on foot. I spent 3 days there and could have spent another 2… Mainly because it was nice to spend time feeling more like a local versus the metropolitan feel of Copenhagen,

I hope that you enjoyed my list of 7 things to do in Aarhus Denmark. I’m writing a separate list of things to eat in Aarhus. So you will have to have a look. If you do go to Aarhus, I hope you have an amazing time!

aarhus, aarhus denmark, Denmark, Travel Tips, World Travel

6 Things To Eat In Malmö Sweden

27th January 2021
Scott
Blog, Journal, Sweden, Travel

Have you ever heard of Malmö Sweden? If I’m honest it was not on my radar as the first Swedish city to visit.. but I’m glad I did as I had some seriously great food. So I’m sharing 6 things you need to eat when you visit Malmö Sweden.

Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden (behind Stockholm and Gothenburg. (Its the 6th largest city in Scandinavia) Thanks to the Öresund Bridge and tramline, Getting to Malmö is super easy to get to and from Copenhagen. Trains run every 20 minutes and the journey takes about 40 minutes making it a perfect addition to a trip to Copenhagen.

The city itself is super charming with a cobblestone square lined with cafes called Lilla Torg. Thought the city there are half-timbered houses and shops selling local handicrafts. If architecture is your thing… there is an incredible library and Santiago Calatrava’s neo-futuristic skyscraper (the Turning Torso) is with a visit. If history is your thing… visit Malmö Castle. Its a 6th-century fortress built by King Christian III of Denmark that houses nature, history, and art exhibits.

But you came here for the food right? Read all about 6 things to eat in Malmö Sweden.

Eating in Malmö, Malmö, Sweden, Travel Tips, World Travel

Azulejos Adventures in Porto

11th September 2020
Scott
Blog, Journal, Portugal, Travel

20 September 2020

Azulejos Adventures

Porto, Portugal

I’m not going to lie…. My main purpose of visiting Porto was to take in those azulejos. If you’ve seen pictures of Porto (and other parts of Portugal) you’ve seen the beautiful, blue and white tiles that done the facades and interiors of buildings and churches.

It was King Manuel I of Portugal who brought azulejo tiles from Seville, in Spain, to Portugal, during the fifteenth century. Azulejos were very common in parts of the in Seville and Grenada (Areas heavily influenced by Moorish architecture and art). The word azulejo comes from the Arabic word al zellige which means “the polished stone”.

Portugal imported its azulejos tiles from Spain, Italy and Holland until the Portuguese mastered the art during the 16th century. In Portugal, the art has developed its own forms, changing from being just geometric shapes and flowers to something that tells stories, mostly of historical or religious themes. The colour palette is dominated by blues and whites. These colours were influenced by the Age of Discoveries roughly between 15-18th centuries.

Here are some of the most impressive Azulejos that are found in Porto Portugal.

São Bento Railway Station

This is probably one of the prettiest train stations in the world thanks to its vestibule being adorned with azulejos tiles covering every wall that shows important historical events in Portuguese history.

First opened in 1916, the tile work began five years after the station was built. And although it might look ordinary from the outside, the real beauty lies within. The main hall boasts of an impressive tile work that consists of 20,000 tiles depicting the history of Portugal there are about 20,000 tiles. The tile work took almost 15 years to complete them all.

A special mention should go to the platforms on the station. They are not covered in tiles… but the stained glass is impressive. The Station is a short walk from Hotel Catalina Porto

Igreja dos Congregados

Igreja dos Congregados, also known as Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados (the Church of St. Anthony’s Congregation), is another must-visit attraction if you want to obsess over the azulejos in Porto. It’s right across the Sao Bento Railway Station.

Completed in 1680, this church went through many changes in history. It was a hospital and during the siege of 1832 it was used for military equipment storage The façade is elaborately decorated with blue and white tiles, this tile work is so stunning

Church of Saint Ildefonso

This 18th-century church is the main feature of Batalha Square and it’s hard to miss alright. The stunning proto-Baroque church is completely covered in the traditional tiles showing scenes from the life of Saint Ildefonso and figurative imagery from the Gospels. This church was built in 1739 and features a proto-Baroque style with a façade of azulejo tile work. This is a twin-towered church with a graceful baroque style. The tiles are the work of Jorge Colaco, who used 11,000 tiles used to cover the entire façade of the church (the same artist is also behind the tile work in Sao Bento station) The tile work was completed in 1932.

The church has seen a lot of damage over the years from storms to battles, so much has been repaired or replaced. The Church (along with Sao Bento) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 You can’t actually go into the church so this one is best enjoyed from afar.

It’s only 7 minutes away from the station Sao Bento Railway Station.

Carmo & Carmelitas Churches

These twin churches may look like one building but they’re actually two (built a century apart so the monks and nuns couldn’t have contact), however, they share a bell tower so there’s a super narrow house built in between connecting them so the bells can be rung. While you puzzle over the sense in it all, take a picture at the epic azulejos wall on the side of the Carmo church.

Surprisingly (but apparently completely normal) exterior of the church was completed in 1878 but the interior was completed over a century and a half prior. As for the tile work, it was completed in 1910 and it pays tribute to Nossa Senhora.

Capela das Almas

The Capela das Almas, also known as the Chapel of Souls, was the first azuleos that I say when I arrived in Porto. Its exquisite blue and white tiles made me stop in my tracks and cried a tear of joy… they are just STUNNING. While the architecture of the chapel is relatively simple, the fact that it’s covered with 15,947 tiles Which I think is the record for the number of tiles used on an exterior in Porto is what makes it stand out.

This chapel was built in the 18th century, tiles were designed by potter Eduardo Leite, made in a factory in Lisbon, and placed in 1929. Capela das Almas is a chapel located in one of the ‘Shopping’ streets of Porto next to the Bolhão subway station.

Porto Is a Tile Lovers Dream

Almost at ever turn in Porto there are tile situations that bring such joy. Exterior facades and interiors.. even one of the hotels I stayed in (Porto Catalan) had tiles in the bedrooms. The tile lovers’ dream

Hope you found this little guide useful. Message me if you went to any of the locations or found some incredible tiles that I missed. Why don’t you pin this to one of your favourite Pinterest boards for future reference.

Hotel Catalonia Porto – The perfect spa hotel for your stay in Porto

3rd May 2020
Scott
Portugal, Travel

30 May 2020

Hotel Catalonia Porto

Porto, Portugal

Hotel Catalonia Porto is perfect spa hotel for your stay in Porto

Are you hunting for the perfect hotel for your weekend in Porto?
A hotel that has a pool, spa, sauna and gym?
A hotel that is super hospitable, like offering you a cocktail and nibbles upon arrival?
A hotel that’s super convenient to almost everything you would like to see in Porto without being in a cramped date hotel?
A hotel that’s spacious and well-equipped?

If you answered yes to any of those questions… I have found the perfect hotel in Porto that fits that bill. Say Hello to Hotel Catalonia Porto. It is part of the Catalonia Hotel Collection of Hotels throughout Europe. They have loads of hotels across Spain… but this is their first foray into Portugal; I would assume that my experience will be similar at most of their locations.

Hotel Catalonia Lobby
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Reception

The Neighbourhood

The Catalonia Porto sits next to the cosmopolitan Batalha Square, one of the city’s major leisure and shopping areas. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the incredible azulejo tiles in Porto … São Bento Railway Station, Capela das Almas and Igreja de Santo Ildefonso are all within easy walking distance.

The hotel is just five minutes from the Ribeira district, which has been declared a World Heritage Site, and its wide choice of restaurants and bars on the banks of the Douro near Dom Luís I Bridge.

The Design

The pink-fronted hotel itself comprises 86 rooms in a group of listed buildings that have an architectural style typical of the city in the 18th century

Seeing as the hotel opened in December 2019, the interior is bang up-to-date. It’s modern without feeling sparse, thanks to the touches of Portuguese-style tiles, glassware, textiles and ceramics used in the interior.

The Rooms

Think white walls, pale wood table tables, crisp white linens, and those Portuguese blue and white tiles.

The beds were super comfortable, so much so that I only intended to stay one night, but I extended my stay to two more nights. The pillows and duvet are feather-free, perfect for allergy sufferers (Hello Me). The rooms are so soundproof, which is great for those light sleepers out there (Hello Me Again)

My bathroom had an incredible wood finish—I hear you saying wood and it had the feel of a chic sauna. It also in a bathroom—a had a powerful waterfall shower and lovely toiletries.

Bedroom
Hotel Catalonia Bathroom
Hotel Catalonia Shower
Hotel Catalonia Mini Bar
Hotel Catalonia Desk
Hotel Catalonia Yoiliteries

The Food And Drink

I did not have a chance to sample the food that they served in the restaurant… because I was in Porto to eat, see all the azulejo tiles and see the Olafur Exhibition at the Serralves Museum. I can say that I had a nose around the breakfast buffet and it looked delicious

The breakfast buffet includes a great variety of fresh fruit, cheese and cold meats, and some delicious looking fresh-baked goods. Seeing it’s part of a Spanish Chain there were potato tortilla and Catalan tomato bread.

they have an onsite bar that offers tapas that you can wash down with a glass of wine or a cocktail. The cocktail menu looked real.y comprehensive with classics and some interesting cocktails

The Extras

It feels kind of funny calling these the extras… I should call them the cherry on the cake. The hotel boasted an incredible landscape garden with a pool and a jacuzzi.

If the pool was not enough (the weather dictated that I would not partake), the spa is well equipped with a small indoor pool with various water jets to ease the stressed muscles from exploring the beautiful city of Porto. They have a beautiful sauna to steam away all the world’s worries. It looks like they have treatment rooms in the works; they were not open on my visit.

There is free Wi-Fi and loads of USB plugs so you can leave the adapters back in the UK.

Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto
Hotel Catalonia Porto

The Damage

The Damage
My Double room was €74 through Booking.com. However, if you book directly through the website (at the time of writing), you can get 7% off your booking.

It’s a brilliant value for money, and the staff could not have done anything more to accommodate my requests and make me feel at home. All said, I would go back for the pool and spa alone.

Hotel Catalonia Porto
Rua de Entreparedes, 92,
4000-198, Porto
+34 93 236 00 00

BACK TO Portugal

Design Hotels, Hotels, Hotels with Pools, porto, Portugal

Hotel Ottila – The perfect hotel for your stay in Copenhagen.

14th February 2020
Scott
Blog, Denmark, Travel

If you answered yes to any of those questions… I have found the perfect hotel in Copenhagen that fits that bill. Say Hello to Hotel Otilla. Hotel Otilla is part of the Brochner Hotels collection of Luxury hotels in Denmark. They have several hotels in Copenhagen, I would assume that my experience will be similar at most of their locations.

copenhagen, Denmark, Design Hotels, Hotels, Luxury Hotel

Mama Shelter – The perfect hotel for your weekend in East London.

18th September 2019
Scott
England, Travel

Are you hunting for the perfect hotel for a weekend in London?
A design-led does not feel like it’s a flat pack hotel?
A hotel that won’t break the bank?
A hotel that’s very close to the east end of London?
A hotel that has a brilliant food and beverage offering?
A hotel that makes you feel like a pop-star in training?

If you answered yes to any of those questions… I have found the perfect hotel in London that fits that bill. Say hello to Mama Shelter London. Mama Shelter is a collection of lively, unique and quirky places to rest your head, fill your bellies and wet your whistels around the globe (Think Los Angeles, Paris, Rio, Prague and Now London to name a few)
The group already boasts 1813 rooms, 13 restaurants and 1170 employees in 12 cities and 7 countries.

Design Hotels, Hotels, London, london hotel, Luxury Hotel

About Me

I love to eat and it shows! From the street to fine dining I love it all… except for raisins and bananas. I hate raisins and bananas.

Thankfully I’ve been able to turn my love of food into a career of Food Photography, Food Styling and Food and Travel content creation.