tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50320399372160945952024-03-16T09:17:31.050+00:00Miss Nicklin | A South Wales Lifestyle, Food and Travel BlogA South Wales lifestyle blogger, photographer and film maker writing about travel to food.
Sampling new restaurants and menus in Cardiff, as well as attractions and getaways across the UK.
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-71026086968161525972020-06-24T16:10:00.000+01:002020-06-24T21:14:12.990+01:00The Life of a Start-Up During Lockdown - Skip & Chick [Quarantine Interview Series]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qGSucWWk8h4/XuouefM4tPI/AAAAAAAAIu8/PxCXumEx7u44ExA1wQSX1F_lKivaqXj4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChickMain1.jpg" /></div>
In the second of my mini quarantine interview series, I'm speaking to Cait - founder of Skip & Chick; a new style of healthy, meat-alternative sausages that is in its development stages. She discussed all things lockdown related and talked about the challenges she's faced during these strange times.<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Hi Cait, how did you come up with this concept of meat-free sausages?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"I haven’t had any formal training but I’ve always loved experimenting with food - mostly trying to make healthier versions or alternatives which still taste good. When I went off to University at 18, I got really into healthy living and fitness and food is of course a big part of this. My first food-based product was a recipe book called ‘<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/RYE-NOT-Delicious-Crispbread-Toppings/dp/169765228X/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8">Rye Not’</a> which I published about 6 months ago, and this then inspired me to go on and doing something a bit bigger - creating a food product of my own! Skip & Chick sausages basically stemmed from my love of seafood, wanting to cut down on meat, but not feeling like the meat alternative sausages out there were that healthy or tasty. Lots are made from soy-protein or filled with ingredients you can’t pronounce, so I wanted to put something out there that was wholesome, tasty, nutritious, and a stepping stone between meat sausages and veggie sausages."</i><br />
<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxnBMVGzM5c/XuoupquKQ9I/AAAAAAAAIvA/_pkRblHLj_QAF-Xg3_ojhPxDBAe5NdSBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChick2.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>What impact has Coronavirus had on your start-up?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"So it’s definitely had an effect on our progress with development and getting things off the ground. Just before lockdown, I managed to find some government-funded resources which included a bootcamp for start-up food brands and a food innovation lab to help you get to a finalised product. Unfortunately because of lockdown, I haven’t been able to progress with these opportunities and they may not be available a later date due to Brexit (European Union Funded). As well as this, many talks and events for start-ups/ food businesses have been canceled, which would have been invaluable. Some have been switched into online webinars which is super helpful, however, they don’t quite have the same networking benefits etc. One thing we are trying to focus on is social media as everyone is spending much more time online and it’s a good time to grow brand awareness. However unfortunately for us, as we’re still developing the product, it’s not an area we can utilise fully until we have our finalised product people can get their hands on."</i><br />
<br />
<b>For someone who doesn't have an office building, using coworking spaces/coffee shops can be a nice change of scenery but unfortunately they've been closed during this time, so how have you remained focused with living and developing your brand under the same roof during lockdown?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"Usually it’s great to be able to get out and work in coffee shops or co-working spaces occasionally as working from home by yourself can definitely give you serious cabin fever. Costs can add up though, and as a start-up you’re obviously trying to spend every penny wisely, so I usually try and split the time between the two to stay sane. <br />Now not having the option to work from anywhere else and not having a sense of routine definitely makes it harder to work from home. It’s much harder to focus, get your head down and not get distracted by daily life. To combat this, we’ve turned our spare room into a bright and relaxing office space and I’ve invested in whiteboard wall planner to try and stay on track with my to-do list! It’s made such a difference actually and I’d recommend doing this for anyone who’s struggling to focus. You need a space for work that’s separate from your chill space. And lots of plants, plants are key!"</i><br />
<b><br /></b><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7X9938MsERo/XuouxkmsFDI/AAAAAAAAIvI/mC-7qny0r7MuQC2vzoGs-6txD6UARYeoACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChick4.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br />
<b>What do you miss the most about ‘normal life’ and what is going to be the first thing you do once the lockdown is lifted?</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"Seeing friends and family, definitely! I think you need to have a balance between social life and work-life to be able to do your best work and be productive. We’re social creatures and not designed to be solitary - socialising can fuel you with energy and motivation. Other than that, I’m really looking forward to going out for some amazing food, (maybe a London food market to get some inspo for Skip & Chick), as well as some outdoor adventures! I love the outdoors, it fills me with curiosity and wonder and makes me feel like anything is possible."</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<b>What three songs have improved your lockdown experience?</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYJg2ISYMbc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bad (feat. Zak Abel) by Don Diablo</a> - chart song (sorry not sorry) which I love running to - my power song.</i></li>
<li><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4LkSRXrK34" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Heavy, California by Jungle </a>- listened to this on repeat so much recently. Just feels so good.</i></li>
<li><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f9VD7QAJbw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Safe by Bay Ledges</a> - amazing Sunday vibes, always makes me feel happy, content and warm.</i></li>
</ul>
<i><br />Anything Ludovico Einaudi - I love working to this, always makes me feel focused. </i><br />
<br />
<b>Are there any movies, series or shows that you’ve started during the lockdown?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"Normal People - so good. Beautiful storytelling, incredible acting, relatable, I was hooked. Unstoppable - really inspiring documentary. I love anything about surfing / the sea. I love a good doc that helps you reset your perspective."</i><br />
<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1Y1ZV3xcm4/Xuou6x6TjaI/AAAAAAAAIvQ/ou0jm9XnKmcPQAk72ZDt5fxOokESj9H9wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChick3.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
<b>Have you started reading any books while in lockdown? </b><br />
<br />
<i>"I’m terrible with reading, I never make time for it, although I love the books that I do dip in and out of. I mostly read non-fiction. Books I’m reading at the moment are ‘Tribe of Mentors’ by Tim Ferris, ‘Unlimited Power’ by Tony Robbins and ‘A Book About Innocent’ written by the guys behind Innocent Smoothies and how they started. So many books I want to read, I wish I could just ingest the knowledge in an instant."</i><br />
<br />
<b>What have you found to be the weirdest thing you’ve found yourself doing and/or seen during this time?</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"I actually don’t know! I do weird things on a daily basis ha. Such as… the other morning I reached up to stretch forgetting I had a cup of coffee in my hand and not thinking what that would mean - and poured the coffee all over my head. It wasn’t the way I was intending to wake myself up with coffee. <br /><br />Other than that, I think the most memorable thing… not the weirdest… is seeing everyone on our street do the NHS clap for the first time. Such an overwhelming feeling and I feel like you don’t often get moments of unity like that."</i><br />
<br />
<b>Is there anything you have discovered about yourself during this time?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"I have a much better day when I get up early in the morning and I need to sleep more (I feel like a whole different person since regularly getting 7-8 hours sleep during lockdown)"</i><br />
<br />
<b>Just for fun - If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"Definitely be able to fly! I love being in the sky (on a plane) looking down at the world, realising how small we are, gaining perspective. Day to day life it’s easy to forget we’re on this amazing planet, essentially a paradise in the scheme of things when you consider all else we know of in the Universe."</i><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RGDhya1WLE/XuowPU27ozI/AAAAAAAAIvo/aTcCsufswJYe9UqCFEVl2dUksq0ukvoPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChick5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RGDhya1WLE/XuowPU27ozI/AAAAAAAAIvo/aTcCsufswJYe9UqCFEVl2dUksq0ukvoPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_SkipandChick5.jpg" /></a><br />
<b>Finally, do you think life will ever return to normal or do you think this is going to change the way in which we interact forever?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"I mean lets get deep… what is normal. Normal is constantly changing. I don’t know if it will go back to exactly how it was before but times change so quickly anyway in ‘normal life’! So that’s ok. Look how quickly we’ve all adapted to lockdown. We’re very adaptable. However, I’m hoping we do get our freedom back. Freedom to be curious, to adventure, to create, to communicate, to socialise. I think that’s what we need to feel normal and hopefully we will get that in one way or another. I think these times will make us appreciate how much we need physical interaction with others and maybe further enforce the idea that communicating via our phones is not a substitute."</i><br />
<br />
Thank you so much Cait for this honest and insightful look into your thoughts and experience throughout lockdown. If you'd like to follow Skip & Chick online then visit their <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9CAyr0nepO/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram page </a>where they share food ideas as well as health & fitness suggestions; @SkipandChick. You can also pick up her <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/RYE-NOT-Delicious-Crispbread-Toppings/dp/169765228X">Rye Not book from Amazon</a> which makes a great gift for any ryvita lover! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Quarantine%20Interviews" target="_blank">View the Quarantine Interview Series</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com16London, UK51.5073509 -0.127758351.1912379 -0.7732053 51.8234639 0.5176887tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-38073122693203085772020-05-18T16:47:00.002+01:002020-05-18T16:52:58.016+01:00A Barber's Life During Lockdown - Guy's Barber Shop [Quarantine Interview Series]<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ7tPak1jaM/Xr4shRkPBvI/AAAAAAAAIqo/yveu4PcANUsNs87--5KWMmVyc14EneVqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShopMain2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ7tPak1jaM/Xr4shRkPBvI/AAAAAAAAIqo/yveu4PcANUsNs87--5KWMmVyc14EneVqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShopMain2.jpg" /></a></div>
This global pandemic has hugely affected people all across the world, not only with the virus itself but also with the big impact it is having - and will have - on the economy. In this series of interviews, I will be chatting to a few people who are each facing different challenges during these unprecedented times.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div>
Whilst obviously people's health and safety is the most important thing, the lockdown forced hairdressers, barbers and salons to close their doors - the sole income and livelihood for thousands of people across the UK. Guy's Barber Shop in the heart of Caerleon is an independent barbershop that had to do just that. I spoke to Guy to find out about his journey and to see how he has been coping during these uncertain times. </div>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>
Hi Guy, obviously, you've had to close your doors with the lockdown, how did you find that and what impact has it had?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"The lockdown was hard, and taking the initial decision to close the doors was heartbreaking as it happened a few weeks before our first birthday in the shop! We had a party planned, with a full day of cuts, beers and cake followed by an outing for more beers to celebrate our immense success! So yeah, lockdown has hit us hard and I miss cutting hair so much- it’s my passion! My partner was undergoing an in-shop apprenticeship with myself being her main teacher so this lockdown has really put that on hold, we are thinking of ways around it such as her practising on me, but it’s hit her hard as she simply cannot train! We have kept our customers up to date weekly on social media, sharing pictures to let people know we are ok and thinking of our loyal customers at the same time! So yeah this has been hard from the new business owner perspective but we will definitely pull through, and be busy as ever!"</i></div>
<div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bxlom4gKm2M/Xr4svd3jPKI/AAAAAAAAIqs/BBfNRcjNMQ8UR7clitkjc6KSL2FOgrPuACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bxlom4gKm2M/Xr4svd3jPKI/AAAAAAAAIqs/BBfNRcjNMQ8UR7clitkjc6KSL2FOgrPuACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop4.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<b>
So, how did you originally get into barbering and what made you open your own shop in Caerleon?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>"I studied fine art at university and left with a degree but was at a loss at what to do after I left university! A few friends worked in a shop that I used to go to get a trim, they told me about the business and I was hooked! (One of these friends would later own their own shop and take me with them!) I moved to a successful chain of shops in Norwich called Courage Noble which is where I learnt all the skills I carry with me today! I then moved to South Wales and opened up my own shop, and boy have we been busy!"</i></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<b>
As you’ve been unable to open the shop or work, how have you been spending your time during lockdown? </b><br />
<br />
<i><b>"</b>During lockdown, we have been SUPER busy! We have an 8-month-old puppy called Elton John so he has been keeping us very busy, he’s a diva! Along with house DIY and doing our front/back garden! I’ve got back into painting as well (it’s been about a year since I last picked up a brush!) but it's going well! We also sometimes spend a couple of hours playing Call of Duty online."</i></div>
<div>
<br />
<b>
What do you miss the most about ‘normal life’ and what is going to be the first thing you do once the lockdown is lifted?</b><br />
<br />
<i><b>"</b>Ahhh normal life, seems like we are living in a film! What do I miss the most? Firstly, I miss interacting with my customers and having a laugh! My customers are an amazing bunch of people from toddlers to OAP’s they all make me laugh and they seem to really enjoy coming to the shop for a chat! Obviously, I am dying for a pint in a pub beer garden with all of my mates! Pretty sure that’s what everyone is missing the most to be honest!"</i></div>
<div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6xwUfBGcJ8/Xr4s_41HCBI/AAAAAAAAIq4/-BU13Tx_fdkg4KizWjG2N1xaLpxoj4SgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6xwUfBGcJ8/Xr4s_41HCBI/AAAAAAAAIq4/-BU13Tx_fdkg4KizWjG2N1xaLpxoj4SgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop2.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>What three songs that have improved your lockdown experience: </b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_QLzthSkfM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Whip it by Devo</a> (Old 80’s new wave band, featured in Stranger Things) </i></li>
<li><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NRXx6U8ABQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blinding lights by The Weeknd</a> (I actually did a Tik Tok to this song and it’s my guilty pleasure haha) </i></li>
<li><i>And of course, anything by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QSA7pSvh-o" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elton John</a>! (We have been getting very excited for our wedding next year, and listening to Elton John helps us plan!)</i></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b>
Are there any movies and/or series that you’ve started during the lockdown?</b><br />
<br />
"Are there any series we have watched?! Strap in, this is gonna be a long one!<br />
Gangs of London on Sky is a MUST for any modern gangster lovers, it’s a good mix of mystery, gore and entertainment! Stranger things on Netflix was something we binged! 3 series in a week, my partner hadn’t watched and I needed her to see what she was missing out on.. she’s now hooked! Of course, if you live with my partner you have to watch Lord of The Rings at least once every two weeks (she is obsessed!) so that’s been on.. and The Hobbit! Modern family, After Life, Cold Case Files and any crime documentary on Netflix and a bunch of Louis Theroux because let’s face it, he’s the man!"</div>
<div>
<br />
<b>
What have you found to be the weirdest experience during these unusual times?</b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>"I haven’t been out that often but I guess the empty streets? It’s like a zombie apocalypse! I had to drive to Norwich to deal with a property I own and it was dead. The roads, the streets, the city centre.. it was actually quite eery! That the weirdest thing I’ve seen during this lockdown!"</i></span><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ulXYs_l6WY/Xr4tL1CZ4OI/AAAAAAAAIq8/j4RLwdoYkJQ7ra10TtikOIzvakHed4vPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ulXYs_l6WY/Xr4tL1CZ4OI/AAAAAAAAIq8/j4RLwdoYkJQ7ra10TtikOIzvakHed4vPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_GuysBarberShop3.jpg" /></a><br />
<b>
Is there anything you have discovered about yourself during this time?</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"I’ve discovered that I can run 5K!! I was very pleased with myself! It came as quite the shock!"</i></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>
Just for fun - If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"Superpower? Definitely have to be time travel! I want to go back to the 80’s, go to gigs and skate. That’s all I ever want to do anyway but it was all rad in the 80’s wasn’t it?!"</i><br />
<br />
<b>
Finally, do you think life will ever return to normal or do you think this is going to change the way in which we interact forever?</b><br />
<br />
<i>"Life will definitely not return to normal, I think it’s going to stay the same with supermarkets and mass gatherings, people will be scared to go out! I think city centre independent businesses will suffer as people have had to order online whereas they may not have before! People have seen how quick and easy it is to click and get it delivered, nobody will shop anymore! It’s sad!"</i><br />
<br />
Thanks so much for taking the time to do this socially distanced interview, Guy! Hopefully, you'll be able to re-open your doors in good time and celebrate your second birthday as anticipated next year! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Follow Guy's Barber Shop on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/guys_barbershop_caerleon/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and/or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/guysbarbershopcaerleon" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to keep up to date with his shop! </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Quarantine%20Interviews" target="_blank">View the Quarantine Interview Series</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com5Caerleon, Newport, UK51.610283 -2.956268951.5708415 -3.0369498999999998 51.649724500000005 -2.8755879tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-81390049386060728922019-11-30T13:41:00.001+00:002021-03-06T15:28:20.185+00:00#MyMicroGap | Exploring Bristol's Quirks | Visit England<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zabfWJzOUmo/XeJFl9fUFrI/AAAAAAAAIdQ/KBSpOiGuNx84kkEUl83ca7bfv1TcClS4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_WhereTheWall_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zabfWJzOUmo/XeJFl9fUFrI/AAAAAAAAIdQ/KBSpOiGuNx84kkEUl83ca7bfv1TcClS4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_WhereTheWall_1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
Last month I was invited on a day trip to Bristol with Visit England as part of their #MyMicroGap campaign. This campaign is all about showcasing interesting, diverse, cultural and quirky things to do all around England in which you can have a <i>mini gap</i> without even hopping on a plane or breaking the bank.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oezIxRGuqwQ/XeJI60DEhPI/AAAAAAAAIdo/yhJpF8NSpts3Jh4vsQu1GD1EVUxhtATuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oezIxRGuqwQ/XeJI60DEhPI/AAAAAAAAIdo/yhJpF8NSpts3Jh4vsQu1GD1EVUxhtATuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
Personally, I think this is a great idea. I’m the first person to say that I need a break or a holiday, yet there are parts of England I’ve not yet explored, so when I was invited to Bristol I thought it would a fab opportunity to see what I had been missing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5mY8veb5Aw0/XeJHSImqv9I/AAAAAAAAIdc/0rxo3AklDlgfzMyuaho5k9qBi45kLrB9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_TheYurk2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5mY8veb5Aw0/XeJHSImqv9I/AAAAAAAAIdc/0rxo3AklDlgfzMyuaho5k9qBi45kLrB9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_TheYurk2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
The day started with us meeting at The Yurt - if you’ve not been there then you really should. You feel instantly calmer as soon as you walk through the door with its soft lighting, wood furnishings and relaxed atmosphere. You’d be forgiven if you thought that you’d been transported to the country somewhere, but alas you’re still right in the centre of Bristol - in fact, it’s right next to Bristol Temple Meads.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssajW-_3E68/XeJNIpxxQTI/AAAAAAAAId0/-1w8Qi4BIEk8feS3LQqba1Nhx38JA-tqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_Graffiti.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssajW-_3E68/XeJNIpxxQTI/AAAAAAAAId0/-1w8Qi4BIEk8feS3LQqba1Nhx38JA-tqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_Graffiti.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
Next, we went on a tour of Bristol's graffiti, mainly inspired by Banksy’ roots, this was hosted by Where The Wall. There were a couple of pieces which I really loved during this urban walk - particularly the one with the bird which was by Nick Harvey. For that piece, he used tags as the energy in the mural, this was commissioned by the restaurant. I also really liked the quirky fish restaurant artwork by Alex Lucas (pictured above - photo on the right) which was also originally commissioned by the restaurant and it was meant to take 5 days, 5 weeks later and it was complete. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iKFDixhX1bA/XeJONibNdPI/AAAAAAAAIeA/nHIE3svg2IodYno1dP_Onhwh1NVKXVJ5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_Graffiti_Banksy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iKFDixhX1bA/XeJONibNdPI/AAAAAAAAIeA/nHIE3svg2IodYno1dP_Onhwh1NVKXVJ5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_Graffiti_Banksy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
We finished the tour at The Canteen Bristol in Stokes Croft which has one of Banksy’ pieces on; 'The Mild Mild West' which is the famous teddy bear throwing the Molotov at riot police. This piece took 3 days to paint, with the police going on last, the artwork below is by an artist called Soker who was the leader of the graffiti group that Banksy was in. It was inspiring getting to see a Banksy piece firsthand and in all its glory. At The Canteen, we all had our go at doing some graffiti - a Where The Wall experience which I couldn’t recommend more. It was great fun, but a lot harder than it looks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KA-4UJtT20I/XeJPPSoXj6I/AAAAAAAAIeM/t7Ylgk3Cws4TuyMZCpfaSCiLGIciC0PQwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_WhereTheWall.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KA-4UJtT20I/XeJPPSoXj6I/AAAAAAAAIeM/t7Ylgk3Cws4TuyMZCpfaSCiLGIciC0PQwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_WhereTheWall.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
We then had a vegan lunch of soup, followed<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>by noodles, and a hot drink. The Canteen is very quirky & informal venue which has live music every single night. The food was tasty and to a high standard, I should also note that they source their ingredients locally, are members of the SRA (Sustainable Restaurant Association) and are keen to embrace the community spirit - which it oozes as soon as you step foot. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9UvY8AFb5w/XeJQEBoj5VI/AAAAAAAAIeY/oYy_uSIp2hgwgL7GOmHwDdLxCdWoEtoTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_TheCanteen.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9UvY8AFb5w/XeJQEBoj5VI/AAAAAAAAIeY/oYy_uSIp2hgwgL7GOmHwDdLxCdWoEtoTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_TheCanteen.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
Then we made our way to Milk Thistle Bristol which is located on Colston Avenue. This sophisticated and speakeasy bar is decorated with dark woods, leather chairs and ambient mood lighting for a totally immersive experience. We then did some gin taste testing and had a masterclass in the history of UK gin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOLSPlRQwEM/XeJRJTYfc3I/AAAAAAAAIek/Ej09pg9cm14xx_Z1NusoLBQMCAAz4_qKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_MilkThistle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOLSPlRQwEM/XeJRJTYfc3I/AAAAAAAAIek/Ej09pg9cm14xx_Z1NusoLBQMCAAz4_qKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_Bristol_Collage_VisitBristol_MilkThistle.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
I was surprised by just how much we did in the space of about 8 hours, it was a well planned out day which had a nice variety of activities and treats. Although I was lucky enough to be invited, all opinions are my own.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Additional photography by Explore with Ed.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhQya5JqhrQ/XeJRl_9zE4I/AAAAAAAAIes/_C2zmWW6tIQFZjVCCig20bKCbIZY5TCzACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_GroupPhoto.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhQya5JqhrQ/XeJRl_9zE4I/AAAAAAAAIes/_C2zmWW6tIQFZjVCCig20bKCbIZY5TCzACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MissNicklin_MyMicroGap_GroupPhoto.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right - Jessy (Popcorn & Pyjamas), Anastazja (Anastazja Adventures), Sima (The Curious Pixie), Stefano (Stefano Malachi), Hannah (MissNicklin), Jamie (Explore with Ed) and Hannah (Postcards by Hannah).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-converted-space">Have you explored Bristol's graffiti-covered streets yet? Or stepped foot inside any of the places mentioned above? I'd love to know what you thought if so! </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Restaurant%20Reviews" target="_blank">review blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<br />
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545}
</style>Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com5Bristol, UK51.454513 -2.587909999999965351.296248 -2.9106334999999652 51.612778 -2.2651864999999654tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-661548378987043882018-11-24T10:30:00.000+00:002018-11-25T14:47:27.064+00:00Harrods’ Rutland Hamper Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMTr595DIts/W_q1CLQeMiI/AAAAAAAAIJg/SlKFhQd4x0IEkktZjYA7TeK8fcDEogoKwCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin-1166072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1009" data-original-width="1500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EMTr595DIts/W_q1CLQeMiI/AAAAAAAAIJg/SlKFhQd4x0IEkktZjYA7TeK8fcDEogoKwCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin-1166072.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Would you believe that it’s Christmas time again?! ... <i>Well </i>- almost - but let’s face it, as soon as November arrives we’re all singing Mariah Carey at the top of our lungs and dusting the Christmas jumpers off... no? <i>Just me then</i>...</div>
<a name='more'></a><i style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi5pRJUJOvw/W_qxZfhgQ3I/AAAAAAAAII0/WKPgf_pyZV8TRWp2S6W17nCfitxFxKfewCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi5pRJUJOvw/W_qxZfhgQ3I/AAAAAAAAII0/WKPgf_pyZV8TRWp2S6W17nCfitxFxKfewCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin4.png" /></a></div>
I’m a sucker for Christmas festivities, always have been and I’m sure I always will be. So when Harrods reached out to me to see if I’d be interested in reviewing one of their <a href="https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/christmas-hampers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christmas hampers</a>, I was <i>very</i> excited! And when it arrived, it <i>literally</i> felt like Christmas had come early! In this particular hamper (called <a href="https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/harrods/the-rutland-p000000000001002010" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Rutland Hamper</a>) it contains everything needed for a very sophisticated <i>(and British)</i> afternoon of treats. As a lover of coffee and tea, this was right up my street.<br />
<i style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xkPJv1X7vfU/W_qxY0d4UpI/AAAAAAAAIIo/qWAMi5XSYY4yggDi6RhhzxX0prF7SjcrQCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xkPJv1X7vfU/W_qxY0d4UpI/AAAAAAAAIIo/qWAMi5XSYY4yggDi6RhhzxX0prF7SjcrQCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin1.png" /></a></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
The full list of contents; </h4>
<ul>
<li>No. 14 English breakfast tea bags (200g/20 silken teabags) <i>Blended black tea</i></li>
<li>Colombian San Agustin roasted ground coffee (250g) <i>Medium roast with a 3 intensity </i></li>
<li>Scottish raspberry preserve (320g) <i>Made in Devon</i></li>
<li>Date, pecan and brown sugar biscuits (150g) <i>Made in Yorkshire</i></li>
<li>Milk chocolate bar (50g) </li>
</ul>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SgiPz_wYfc/W_qxY2Uc1vI/AAAAAAAAIIw/jK4-Mb6UmYQTWjvJFpCbzL91DoakSZCpQCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SgiPz_wYfc/W_qxY2Uc1vI/AAAAAAAAIIw/jK4-Mb6UmYQTWjvJFpCbzL91DoakSZCpQCLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin3.png" /></a><br />
The hamper is presented beautifully in a grey/soft green hard box, complete with a tie ribbon and a gold Harrods logo. Inside, each item has its own place built into the hamper, and they are sealed to ensure they are fresh and ready to enjoy right away upon opening. I was very impressed by the quality of the products - especially the biscuits as they crumbled perfectly and had a wonderful texture. The tea was light yet creamy, the coffee was smooth & rich, and the chocolate bar was oh so indulgent. I think that this hamper would be great accompanied with a few homemade scones and fresh cream to create a cream tea with the raspberry preserve - so if you’re thinking about buying this for someone then why not try out your baking skills too!<br />
<i style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6SM_hPAySk/W_qxY_RJbkI/AAAAAAAAIIs/G0u0dAY_FyY3TknlFltUfwk1Ruq-x25gACLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6SM_hPAySk/W_qxY_RJbkI/AAAAAAAAIIs/G0u0dAY_FyY3TknlFltUfwk1Ruq-x25gACLcBGAs/s1600/Harrods_Rutland_Hamper_MissNicklin2.png" /></a></div>
The Rutland is ideal for someone who treasures an afternoon break with a hot drink and a good book, or for someone who is taking a miss on the alcohol this Christmas (probably something I should do!). It’s a very luxurious gift which will definitely put a smile on a loved ones face!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you ever bought anyone a hamper as a gift? Let me know in the comments below! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This product was gifted to me but all opinions are my own.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click for even more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Christmas" target="_blank">Christmas posts</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i></i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-1597756128562765442018-10-15T08:17:00.000+01:002018-10-15T08:17:30.372+01:00The ultimate guide to buying your first car!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BME-wefZ_Q/W8Q9gxIz-mI/AAAAAAAAIFY/zYa57Un6f8ci2_vhE0f1SNBMl3ckaIlMgCLcBGAs/s1600/car-buying-car-key-car-purchase-97079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BME-wefZ_Q/W8Q9gxIz-mI/AAAAAAAAIFY/zYa57Un6f8ci2_vhE0f1SNBMl3ckaIlMgCLcBGAs/s1600/car-buying-car-key-car-purchase-97079.jpg" /></a></div>
Almost 2 years ago I passed my driving test at the age of 25. It took me a little longer than expected with a total of 3 different driving instructors and 8 years between my first ever lesson and passing, but I finally did it! It’s a great feeling once you pass and you get that little certificate, but what happens after? Well, you’re going to need to get a motor to drive of course! <br /><a name='more'></a><br /><h4>
New cars vs secondhand cars</h4>
<br />Now first things first, as tempting as it is to go all out and get a brand new Mercedes for your first set of wheels, your bank account will thank you for getting a pre-loved car. Since new cars depreciate the second you drive it off the lot (a whopping 11% based on a study in 2017), you get more bang for your buck if you play it safe with a used car (besides, who needs the stress of having a pristine car for the first time you drive on a motorway?!)<br /><br /><h3>
3 door or 5 door car?</h3>
<br />If you’re wondering who on earth would design a car with two front doors and 1 backseat passenger door then, well, same. A 3 door car refers to two front doors and a boot-opening, 5 door is 2 front doors, 2 back passenger doors and a boot-opening. Now we’ve cleared that up, you’ll want to find a car which ticks your boxes. Do you need a 3 door or 5? Will you be driving people around, do you have kids, will you be using it for moving house in the future? If so, a 5 door will be very handy. I was deciding between a 3 and 5 door car and I opted for the 5 door in the end, definitely something I’m grateful for now! But if you’re after a sporty style then you’re more likely to get that with a 3 door, and they can be a little cheaper. <br /><br /><h4>
Automatic vs manual cars</h4>
<img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JqKHnT1vP84/W8Q8_W-27yI/AAAAAAAAIFM/A8C1SQULI4AjcVSeqAWN6qGlQrElmxeJwCLcBGAs/s1600/Car7.jpg" /><br />If you took the full driving test (not just automatic) then do you want a manual car or an automatic? Each have their pros and cons - automatics will do a lot of the hard work for you, and stop you from the dreaded stalling in rush hour panic. However, manual cars are generally a little bit cheaper, they’ve also been known to save drivers 5%-15% on their fuel costs because manual transmission engines weigh less and have more gears than automatics. Also, if you go straight into driving an automatic after passing, you will probably get very comfortable and reliant on that style, so when the day comes that you want to change cars and you find out your dream wagon is a manual, you may struggle getting into the swing of it again.<br /><br /><br /><h4>
Petrol Vs diesel?!</h4>
<img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rHTDuFahY4w/W8Q9pStWJyI/AAAAAAAAIFg/M8HqY_wP43Ug6giXPElWt0NHjVc98uPlgCLcBGAs/s1600/car-filling-station-fuel-pump-9796.jpg" /><br />While electric is the future with new petrol and diesel cars being banned in 2040, you’ve still got a few years left of regular trips to the gas station and working out which place has the best prices. Generally diesel is more expensive, however, they are more efficient and are well suited for someone who is going to be using the motorway and traveling long distances. Petrol engines tend to be slightly quieter than diesel, they also produce less dangerous emissions such as nitrogen (they do produce more cO2 emissions though). Petrol cars are usually a little cheaper as well, although diesel cars are thought to be better value in the long run, it can take between 6 and 11 years to recoup the extra cost. <br /><br /><h4>
Mileage</h4>
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DRMrrij-9T8/W8Q9v2PwjwI/AAAAAAAAIFk/aVIO4tvGHlkRHHFNS4c60PKHQ-nCbORtQCLcBGAs/s1600/car-close-up-gauge-104836.jpg" /><br />Another thing to consider when buying a secondhand car is the mileage it has accumulated. A high mileage shouldn’t put you off, but you should do your research on that car model and any mileage related issues. For example, some brands may start to have major issues after they have done 90,000 miles, but other cars may be fine for another 50,000. Also, it’s a good idea to find out the service history (any credible dealer will share this information with you) - if you are comparing two identical cars but one has done 70,000 miles and the other has done 80,000, you may immediately think that the car with fewer miles is better - but that might not be the case. If the car in question commonly has issues at 75,000 miles, and the car which has done 80,000 miles has just had its engine replaced then you’re actually probably better getting the second car since it has been through the problematic time and has been seen to. The car I bought had already done 120,000 miles... and guess what? I’ve done a further 20,000 and it’s been good as gold (touch wood). <br /><br /><h4>
Extras</h4>
<br />It can be super overwhelming choosing what car to go for and you may have found the car of your dreams, but will it actually make your driving experience enjoyable or have you foreseen some key things which will make your driving time a little more easier. Is it important for the car to have a CD player? Or does it have an aux Jack so you can listen to music through your phone? Does it have Bluetooth? Do you have central locking? Are the windows electric? Does it have cruise control? These things might not be so important to you at the time of buying, but if you’re planning on racking up those miles then you need to think about the long term use. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere without music playing, or without being able to open and close all the windows when needed. My car also has cruise control which was a huge bonus as your feet can get very tired if you’re regularly going up and down the M4. <br /><br /><br />I’m no car expert, but these are things which I considered when buying my first car. If you’re clueless (like I was) then heading down to your local dealer to discuss your needs will really help shine some light on options which are suitable to you. <a href="https://www.kapmotorgroup.co.uk/fiat/used" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KAP motors</a> stock a variety of brands such as Fiat, Ford, Peugeot and Nissan and they have lots of useful info on their website, so have a browse to find your perfect pre-loved car today!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you enjoyed this article, I’d love to know if you’re about to get your first car, or what your first car was!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*this post is a collaboration, but all opinions are my own*</span></i></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to read my other <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Top%20Tips" target="_blank">top tips</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<br /><img src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif" />Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-35810188604150585592018-07-26T23:27:00.001+01:002018-07-26T23:27:47.936+01:00BBQ Of The Summer with M&S Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-muKRCM6U26s/W1pILWW9CTI/AAAAAAAAIBE/ZecB9sBsUwQutA9O_iYKIY8FLx4eTJKmwCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111678.jpg" /></div>
How incredible has this recent warm <i>(okay, boiling!)</i> weather been?! It's crazy to think that just a few months ago we had some seriously bad snow...! Our summer is in full swing which means if you haven't already, it's time to light the barbecue and enjoy the sunshine because it'll soon be back to cosy jumpers for autumn.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--HBTY2rWask/W1pISmhr2DI/AAAAAAAAIBI/SNOvp0N3oxMlxPRRjlVoJUTjCeMpMUhJACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111643.jpg" /></div>
<a href="https://www.marksandspencer.com/c/food-to-order" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marks & Spencer</a>'s dropped me an email to see if I'd like to host a BBQ and try some of their 'best ever' burgers as they are celebrating being the <a href="https://corporate.marksandspencer.com/media/press-releases/2018/m-and-s-raises-the-stakes-with-unrivalled-new-british-beef-traceability-campaign" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">only national retailer which can trace 100% of its beef</a> back to the farm and individual cow - <i>impressive right?!</i> Give that people in Wales ate more than 180,000 M&S burgers in the last 12 months, I was obviously keen to get my hands on a bun or two <i>- no pun intended, </i>so they sent me lots of their goodies including their special burgers, bacon, posh-dogs, sauces, fresh strawberries and crisps!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T5d9JDU7aNU/W1pIh99zCeI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/-fUrEedJ_Z0A88MvoqQarGv4FRluro4sACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111682.jpg" /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">I love a good cheeseburger, and boy was this one by M&S great! It was almost like eating a steak. They state that their burgers are created with carefully selected cuts of British beef and a hint of bone marrow for that extra special flavour</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.6667px;">,</span></span><span style="text-align: justify;"> and you can definitely tell once you tuck into it. I especially liked their chilli-cheese slices and creamy burger mayo with my meal, and those burger buns were so fresh!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uXd0ULhWC5s/W1pIoxwcb4I/AAAAAAAAIBY/Pc5Eh9NqnVAWip6M5ZAKFDwkVoHrkSCZgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111659.jpg" /></div>
The posh-dogs were not the sort you'd find at an amusement park stand, these were high-quality and very tasty! Combined with their posh-dog pickle relish and rolls, these were very yummy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LKpVO2DB1pM/W1pI6etX3cI/AAAAAAAAIBg/k5OUuGvIuBoiy_sPhZ6X0T8ryiWqMSCTgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111706.jpg" /></div>
For dessert I made a delicious <a href="http://cookwithmands.com/recipes/no-bake-strawberry-and-passion-fruit-cheesecake" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">strawberry and passionfruit cheesecake</a> with fresh berries from M&S. It was surprisingly easy to make and it didn't need to be baked, also it ended up being pretty big so I managed to keep it for a few days and enjoy it on the following evenings. It was also great to find out that M&S have worked with some of their British berry suppliers for over 40 years and is proud to work with farmers who have been farming for generations which is something I think they should be extremely proud of.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-741vPRwelCQ/W1pJCa_qrgI/AAAAAAAAIBk/X3ShVfPi4NIbUXZ9wyjqaYYJqYsWQi3uQCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_BBQ_OfTheSummer-1111725-3.jpg" /></div>
Thank you Marks & Spencer for sending me these treats, I really loved trying everything and will be sure to pick up some more burgers and berries when I next host a BBQ!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">While the food items mentioned were sent to me, all of the opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to indulge in more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/foodie" target="_blank">foodie blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com71tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-4726094294186185742018-07-18T19:30:00.000+01:002018-07-19T00:11:02.896+01:00Dinner at The Captain's Wife | Sully<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQyE-ECZNEo/W0-Z-kTcRUI/AAAAAAAAH-0/Z5fsHsdjEHQEErXldK_cEhsN1s6xL3FNACLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-1088193.jpg" /></div>
After living in Penarth for a few years, I’ve paid numerous visits to <a href="https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/wales/thecaptainswifepenarth#" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Captain’s Wife</a> in Sully as it’s a great pub with a beautiful view! What’s not to like! So when I was invited to review their menu, service and refurbishment, I was thrilled! I was able to tie it in with my dads 74th birthday too!<br />
<div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5QWuv0o9cIs/W0-aEZrWScI/AAAAAAAAH-4/kT4EImE8vdQQLtJxJZ5gpHIsPo5IgbM8QCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-1088191.jpg" /><br />
<h3>
The Interior</h3>
From the outside, The Captain's Wife looks like a small and cosy pub, but inside it has enough seating for all sorts of occasions; from couples to parties. Despite it being a chain of Mitchell & Butlers it doesn’t feel like one at all and that’s down to the fact it’s one of their ‘Vintage Inns’.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6g_-_ejyTOE/W0_HpetIpnI/AAAAAAAAIAk/Oro4w8BhOpYfsORChtOWm5_Y1MJn5mQwwCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-collage3.jpg" /></div>
It’s decorated beautifully with large chairs to relax in, old-fashioned crown mouldings, paintings and a charming fire. Making it a perfect spot for a cup of coffee or a bottle of wine - especially as it has a huge variety of drinks available at the bar!<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Menu </h3>
<br />
The Captain’s Wife has a wonderful section of hearty food, but not only that, they also have a superb set menu which is very reasonably priced! My dad and I opted for the set menu while my mum ventured out and ordered off the general menu.<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FUP4Yj-_nck/W0-bcq_FBAI/AAAAAAAAH_o/sj_K0EoK3SEAu1NH5pfLQY_QEE2Id-u2QCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-1088160.jpg" /><br />
<br />
For starters I had a prawn cocktail, this was presented very well and came with some toasted bread, my dad went for the garlic mushrooms and my mum ordered the calamari. All were excellent starters, and the calamari sauce was spot on!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yQnNngXUkv4/W0_HZNjXibI/AAAAAAAAIAY/b1elUDzI14IbRd4tuzpfxAuNydi2clHYACLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-collage2.jpg" /></div>
<br />
For mains I chose a rump steak (8oz) from the set menu while my mum had the rib-eye(10oz), and my dad ordered a pub classic; fish and chips. I must say, the triple-cooked chips were done to perfection, I find sometimes chips can be dry or not very tasty but they got the nail on the head with the way these chips were cooked! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0oN-RcIJL5A/W0_HeN6g4RI/AAAAAAAAIAc/Bz0zW0XYAcE0ShdVb1yFfuSEzZJq1JtOwCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-collage4.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
In terms of the steak, the rump was great <i>(especially for the price)</i> but if you’re after a nice juicy steak then the rib-eye has my vote. It’s slightly more expensive but if you fancy treating yourself then try that one (the rib-eye is currently £19.50, while the rump is £13.50 on the à la carte menu)<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIpI6Y84QaE/W0-bthbuyvI/AAAAAAAAH_0/xq_59ANHgY0g-J6BdbUJ9uwevdDd3S2nQCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-1088211.jpg" /><br />
<br />
For dessert we went for the pudding taster platter. <i><b>Oh my.</b></i> It was heaven - and look how they presented it! If you’re celebrating something special like a birthday then let your server know and they can put writing on your platter too at no additional cost. I would definitely recommend the platter if there’s a few of you. My ultimate favourite from the selection was the eton mess and the crème brûlée but it also had a treacle & pecan tart, Belgium chocolate brownie and biscuits. <i>Yum.</i><br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nefg1ft-BqM/W0-cAHlHYQI/AAAAAAAAH_8/1mTSuA4qREw-BcXANS5qSmfBXEQ-0LxhwCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-1088248.jpg" /><br />
<br />
While the food was fantastic as usual, there was another factor that made our evening extra special; our host. We had the pleasure of having George as our host, he was fantastic, very charismatic and full of chit chat. We had a fabulous evening and can’t wait to return to the captains wife to try the rest of their extensive menu.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uANlQXKeeos/W0_HjzjzRLI/AAAAAAAAIAg/YfAUQnQLfyUbct5R_T-nTQCo9w_QiCYpQCLcBGAs/s1600/CaptainsWife_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review-collage.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>While this meal was partly comped, all opinions are my own.</i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Restaurant%20Reviews" target="_blank">review blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
<i>
</i></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com4Beach Rd, Swanbridge, Sully, Penarth CF64 5UG, UK51.400419 -3.19831799999997231.0057565 -44.506911999999971 71.7950815 38.110276000000027tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-26991125388783581152018-06-29T17:18:00.000+01:002018-07-03T07:44:02.845+01:00Afternoon Tea at Marco Pierre White | Cardiff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jOzKd3GrwM0/WzZXvmSCTUI/AAAAAAAAH9E/kzHrL0zhQXwrQlGJe35EM3fm165GUZKcQCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088002.jpg" /></div>
Earlier this month I visited <a href="https://www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk/our-brands/steakhouse-bar-and-grill/cardiff/afternoon-tea-cardiff" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marco Pierre White</a>’s restaurant for the first time! I was invited to try their new afternoon tea menu, and as a lover of tea and cake I was not one to turn this down!<br />
<a name='more'></a>I must admit, I got a little lost looking for MPW. It’s located within <a href="https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/cardiff/cdfin/hoteldetail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hotel Indigo</a>, which is just on Queen street, but to say the signage of it was less than obvious would be an understatement! So if you’re planning on paying the restaurant, or hotel, a visit then just find where Boots is and look directly opposite it. <i>You’ll thank me later ;-)</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPInjHJtV7c/WzZX_4mDXCI/AAAAAAAAH9M/-KSZpGZ0vIcnUgGyhRG_OYLahcGONtXhACLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088083.jpg" /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The bar</h3>
<br />
Up to the sixth floor we went, focused on the thought of scones and a glass of bubbly, we entered a very fine bar area which could only be described as an Instagrammers dream: Marble chairs, colourful flowers, a fire and cosy sofas all made this restaurant a beautiful destination for any special occasion.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Afternoon Tea</h3>
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IorCgMy3FvY/WzZYImeAwPI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/Qk8pu80u0DA71uHi3t14ROwo1mSlHl0KgCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088011.jpg" /><br />
Then the afternoon tea came. Presented on a gorgeous copper display with three tiers full of goodies, we *almost* didn’t want to eat it because it looked so good. (Spoiler alert, we ate it)<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Sandwiches</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSZSJf72Too/WzZYR_0JG6I/AAAAAAAAH9Y/71IIVpU9BgcDzESbdMZHs1MC8Auf_BdvQCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088024.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We started with the sandwiches which included; ham and mustard, cucumber and cheese, smoked salmon, and beef and horseradish. The ham and mustard was the underdog for me as it usually isn’t my first choice, but the Colman’s mustard really gave this sarnie a kick and quickly became one of my favourite options there. Saying that, my go-to has always been a smoked salmon filling and this one did not disappoint! The beef and horseradish was also another classic, and delicious combo. Finally the cucumber and cream cheese sandwich was a hit, and it was definitely a lighter, and more fragrant savoury bite than the other choices.</div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Scones</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki9BsJWM3z8/WzZbWZC5jpI/AAAAAAAAH-A/Nt7wwsEP_S8L1Ow0HHsukyq3g2nYlUxkwCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088048.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Next we went for the scones... Even though we took our time to savour the first ‘course’ <i>(I even popped out for some ‘fresh air’ too)</i> the scones were still warm! These went down an absolute treat; the combination of the hard crust with the soft and warm centre was very nice indeed, the fresh strawberries and macaroons were also a lovely touch! We did need to request another pot of strawberry jam, but the staff were more than happy to accommodate that and they quickly returned with a second sealed pot. I accompanied my scone with a delicate green tea, while my mum went for a traditional breakfast tea.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Cakes</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyJUIF8_6Sk/WzZYxXD4leI/AAAAAAAAH9s/YQ-dHYzCBlIbf1ZM7Xg-5r4JfOA_XAZ0wCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088026.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Finally, the desserts! Despite being ravenous before we entered, we were feeling very well fed after our second ‘course’, but I had to try the cakes, for blogs sake! Surprisingly, the carrot cake was my favourite, it was light and had a cinnamon undertone which complemented the entire meal. The chocolate cake was heavier but very moist and flavoursome, this had a coffee-like taste to it and was extremely filling. Finally the cheesecake was a soft and creamy cake which was just the right size to devour. <br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4dzCJWZCx8/WzZY3PDOR0I/AAAAAAAAH9w/EPWAQZE1tBonyAbcVhgkelG5Jnu6XM5gwCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088040.jpg" /><br />
<br />
During our meal we sipped on teas (included in the afternoon tea) and a glass of prosecco each (additional £5 per person with the afternoon tea). I felt like the pricing was very fair (£19.95 without prosecco), the quality of food was excellent, the staff were extremely helpful, and the interior of the bar felt like we had been transported to an exclusive London bar. I would hands down return to MPW with my girlfriends for a fancy meal or for another afternoon tea as my experience was fabulous. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgfU0oLbPEs/WzZYYtek5DI/AAAAAAAAH9g/-rXnmDwyVygX6j4Dli1A2aEYsDi90N8pwCLcBGAs/s1600/MPW_Cardiff_MissNicklin_Review_AfternoonTea-1088031.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">MPW's afternoon tea is available Monday - Saturday from 12pm until 5pm. Bookings must be made 24 hours in advance </span></i></i><br />
<i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">While my visit was complimentary, my opinions are my own.</span></i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to indulge in more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/foodie" target="_blank">foodie blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com36th Floor Dominions, Arcade Dominions House, Queen Street, Cardiff CF10 2AR, United Kingdom51.4820153 -3.176835699999969631.0863018 -44.485429699999969 71.8777288 38.13175830000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-82518527786020270852018-03-09T12:07:00.001+00:002018-03-09T12:07:05.317+00:00Brushbox in a Nutshell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8IF0SNSVjg/WqJylJYN0XI/AAAAAAAAHyc/hYXKoI94Hw45HzFRydoKjAqWduNgGeDuACLcBGAs/s1600/Snapseed%2B2.jpg" /></div>
No matter who you are, I'm sure <i>(or hope)</i> that something you do on a daily basis is brush your teeth! Having clean and healthy teeth is not only important to keep gum disease and plaque at bay, but teeth hygiene also impacts your general health. Did you know that brushing your teeth regularly can help you avoid heart disease?! Well it can, so when <a href="https://www.brushbox.comdiscount/HANNAH50" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brushbox</a> emailed me to see if I'd be interested in trying out what they offer I jumped at the chance!<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h3 style="text-align: center;">
What is <a href="https://www.brushbox.comdiscount/HANNAH50" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brushbox</a></h3>
Brushbox is a bimonthly subscription box that contains everything you need to maintain healthy oral hygiene. You can opt for different boxes depending on how many there are in your household. The boxes start from £3.50 per month for a single subscription, however it goes down to as little as £2.50 per person when ordering for four people. By default the boxes come with a toothbrush and award winning whitening toothpaste manufactured in Ireland. You can also choose if the box is for an adult or child (the child toothbrushes come in child-friendly sizes), the style of toothbrush you'd like, and if you'd like any optional extras such as floss and/or a tongue cleaner.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz19KlfBZjw/WqJyJtlebBI/AAAAAAAAHyQ/s1TCBDzOqE4ZIduXe3t5VnCABsrcXKQOACLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2018-03-09%2Bat%2B11.19.17.png" /></div>
It takes the hassle out of remembering to replace your toothbrush and toothpaste, and it's delivered straight to your door - free of charge! I was very excited when my box arrived which included an eco-friendly toothbrush, floss, tongue cleaner and toothpaste. The stylish packaging and easy labels made me feel more organised than ever with my teeth care!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EElomfm7pKw/WqJxw3NqaQI/AAAAAAAAHyM/KCuHas5ZhesRZugKi3MCArW-VldyfYvoACLcBGAs/s1600/Brushbox_discount_missnicklin.jpg" /></div>
A good thing to know is that you can cancel your subscription at any time! So you can rest assured that if you decide it's not for you, you're not stuck in a contract! Also, as a valued reader of mine, Brushbox are offering you 50% off your first months subscription! Just enter the code HANNAH50 when placing your order!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy smiling!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">While I have been gifted this product, all opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Fashion%20%26%20Beauty">fashion & beauty posts</a>!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-13512459902266066622018-03-01T08:39:00.000+00:002018-03-01T08:51:15.820+00:00Caerphilly Cheese Tart Recipe & Welsh Hamper Giveaway!<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oAgs1Tx0wCw/WpQpQSdvFiI/AAAAAAAAHqc/Kbuv_aFddxULB2jwrWweLwx-oOEqMYp_wCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WelshRecipe-2827.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
To celebrate St David's day <i>(that's today if you didn't know!) </i>I've teamed up with <a href="https://businesswales.gov.wales/foodanddrink/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Food & Drink Wales</a> to highlight the wealth of fabulous food and drink that comes out of Wales! In this post I'll be showing you how to make a Caerphilly cheese tart, with traditional Caerphilly cheese which has recently won a PGI <i>(Protected Geographical Indication) </i>status! I've also got a special giveaway for my lovely readers worth £50! <i>Read on to find out more!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="171" data-original-width="172" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-RS5uDgchg/WpaMQRTs8OI/AAAAAAAAHs8/2RWfsoE7cJ4-54lVuuprSR-7t4FKrQOBgCLcBGAs/s1600/PGI%2Blogo.png" /></div>
<a name='more'></a><h2 style="text-align: center;">
Caerphilly Cheese Tart Recipe<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-syKB0NC9okU/WpQpC1KlfHI/AAAAAAAAHqU/OGFqd8U7q34gQLkKEJCRdmLSl5SGzZVjACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WelshRecipe-2775.jpg" /></h2>
This recipe makes for a lovely light lunch or starter, it takes about 40 minutes to prepare <i>(including 20 minutes cooking time) </i>and it serves six. The recipe is extremely easy to follow and it's pretty fool-proof, I also have to say that it was <i>very</i> delicious!<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
What you'll need:</h4>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1 tablespoon olive oil<br />
15g butter (Welsh is best if possible!)<br />
2 large red onions, finely sliced<br />
2 tablespoons of light muscivado sugar<br />
3 tablespoons of balsamic vinega<br />
450g ready-made puff pastry<br />
100g Caerphilly cheese, crumbled<br />
1/2 red and 1/2 yellow pepper, sliced<br />
75g black olives, pitted and chopped <i>(optional)</i><br />
1 tablespoon of olive oil (for the dish before putting in the oven)<br />
Some shredded basil leaves to garnish <i>(optional)</i><br />
Some plain flour for rolling out the pastry<br />
<br />
<b>Utensils:</b><br />
Chopping knife<br />
Medium/large Frying pan<br />
30 x 22cm baking tray <i>(approximately)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kTy5GQNvrpk/WpQrl-U4tfI/AAAAAAAAHrE/PMheCl9iDnIJ3_EfLFzSrGeMgMQyPvILgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WelshRecipe-2809.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<b>The recipe:</b></h4>
1) Preheat your oven to 200°C/ fan oven 180°C/ Gas 6.<br />
<br />
2) Heat the butter and 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan and then add the onions. Season with salt and pepper and fry for roughly 10 minutes until caramelised. Add the sugar and balsamic vinegar and cook for a further 10 minutes, until the juices are reduced and syrupy. Leave to cool <i>(5 minutes or so)</i><br />
<br />
3) Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and use it to line a 30 x 22cm baking tray.<br />
<br />
4) Cover the pastry with the onion mixture and scatter over the crumbled cheese, peppers and olives. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the dish.<br />
<br />
5) Bake for 20 minutes until the pastry is risen, golden and the base is crisp. Scatter over the basil leaves and cut into six portions.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Az08P70nmaA/WpVaVcM9GlI/AAAAAAAAHso/daj3WfmxrHAE6tckPBzczG63YGT92Ph8QCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WelshRecipe-2839.jpg" /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Welsh Hamper Giveaway</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bLt4vQsllD4/WpQqUTx-gTI/AAAAAAAAHq4/gWyf5RiEAfgk7PSvTqCro5J9GMWr0P6bwCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WelshRecipe-.jpg" /></div>
Wouldn't it be wonderful to win some Welsh goodies? Well here's your chance! I'm going to be running a Twitter competition between today (1st March) and the 8th March, all you need to do is follow <a href="https://twitter.com/FoodDrinkWales" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@FoodDrinkWales</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bwydadiodcymru" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@BwydaDiodCymru</a> and myself (<a href="https://twitter.com/MissNicklin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@MissNickin</a>) and retweet <a href="https://twitter.com/MissNicklin/status/969132231057989632" target="_blank">THIS</a> tweet! Best of luck to you all! Only open to people in the UK, competition closes on the 8th March 2018 at 6pm GMT. Winner will be chosen at random. <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/p/the-fine-print.html" target="_blank">Full Ts&Cs</a>.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Here's the full list of what the giveaway includes:</b></div>
<br />
2 x Penderyn miniatures – Whisky and Gin<br />
Radnor Brecon Smoky Campfire Marmalade<br />
Radnor Brecon Pin Gin Marmalade<br />
Nom Nom Halen Mon Sea Salt Chocolate Bar<br />
Nom Nom Earl Grey Chocolate Bar<br />
2 x Tregroes Toffee Waffles<br />
2 x Tan Y Castell Welsh Cakes<br />
2 x Welsh Brew Tea Bag Sample Packs<br />
Welsh apron<br />
Wicker hamper<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you make this recipe then please let me know how you get on! Alternatively, if you'd like to save it for later then Pin the picture below on Pinterest! If you'd like to see another one of my recipes with Welsh cheese then try these <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2016/09/how-to-make-glamorgan-sausages.html" target="_blank">Glamorgan Sausages</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gt7qbgTGTxY/WpQoys13XqI/AAAAAAAAHqQ/_now8uM7bNk7jnWPNn77SMfzs8FiLnPEACLcBGAs/s400/Easy_Caerphilly_Cheese_Tart_Recipe.jpg" width="260" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This blog is a collaboration with the </i></span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Food & Drink Wales.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Join the conversation on Twitter: #ThisisWales #FoodDrinkWales #GwladGwlad</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to indulge in more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/foodie" target="_blank">foodie blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-2062330920880658172018-02-27T12:07:00.001+00:002018-02-27T12:36:07.569+00:00Spring Fashion Board*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sY0EpN06gMg/WpAGe1smOhI/AAAAAAAAHpQ/Gg0RMmmOn8UHpmrhgi-oQFR89QdYypQwwCLcBGAs/s1600/Spring_Fashion_Inspiration.jpg" /></div>
Today I'm going to be sharing with you a collection of spring fashion ideas! With the warmer weather <i>slowly</i> approaching, it's time to put away those heavy jumpers and start to enjoy the sunshine, maybe do a spot of gardening, a<i>nd of course</i>, get the BBQ ready for summer..!<br />
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;">
1) <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0584483001.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Seersucker Top</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2) <a href="https://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/5,20/2482740635" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vans Authentic Trainers</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3) <a href="https://toptierstyle.com/dresses/backless-mini-dress-with-bow-detail/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Backless Mini Dress</a>*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4) <a href="https://www.engelbert-strauss.co.uk/work-jeans/e-s-7-pocket-jeans-ladies-3160190-95921-323.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">7 Pocket Jeans</a>*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5) <a href="https://www.riverisland.com/p/green-floral-jacquard-mini-skirt-716903" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Floral Mini Skirt</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6) <a href="https://toptierstyle.com/shorts/distressed-denim-shorts/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Distressed Denim Shorts</a>*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7) <a href="https://toptierstyle.com/dresses/backless-vintage-boho-dress/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vintage Boho Dress</a>*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
8) <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/shoes-430/supertrooper-ball-strap-sandals-7375874?bi=0&ps=20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ballstrap Sandels</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9) <a href="https://www.engelbert-strauss.co.uk/work-sweatjackets/e-s-functional-sweat-jacket-solid-3120400-88347-973.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Functional Jacket</a>*</div>
The Seersucker top from H&M is really versatile, it comes in a few different patterns and I especially like the white one (pictured) and the blue striped one. This top would go well with the shorts, mini skirt and jeans in this spring fashion board. The Vans trainers are essentials no matter what the season, I chose these ones because I liked the colour (it made me think of daffodils - which are definitely something I associate with Spring!) The Backless mini dress by Top Tier Style is a playful and cute dress that is ideal for warmer months, you can pair it with a white cardigan and it'll be a nice combo for some drinks with friends! The dress comes in a few different colours, for Spring I liked the orange version (pictured) or the yellow version which you can find on their website. I also thought the vintage boho dress would be nice as an everyday dress, or something to wear for day-time parties.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V5M54DLmPis/WpVJlvTntCI/AAAAAAAAHro/mSFEq_JLHXgVV6b_6I8qV9VO6NFlEccbwCLcBGAs/s1600/Spring_Fashion_Inspiration_MissNicklin3.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The 7 pocket jeans are very practical for Spring time, offering you a whopping seven pockets to store bits and bobs in. In the image above I created a walking/gardening outfit which includes the jeans and the functional jacket (also by Engelbert-Strauss), a <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_61132+497118G7P_-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">striped scarf</a> by Debenhams, and some <a href="https://www.vans.co.uk/shop/en-gb/vans-gb/leather-old-skool-shoes-va38g1rz5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">white Van trainers</a> (although you may already have some gardening boots!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IsX2OME_h0k/WpVJqGNWJvI/AAAAAAAAHrs/mMLU7ruMPzMmRR2QyP-U_ciKiW8jyI7vgCLcBGAs/s1600/Spring_Fashion_Inspiration_MissNicklin2.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This floral mini skirt by River Island is full of chill vibes, I think it looks lovely with the H&M top, colourful heels by TopShop and finished with a <a href="https://www.riverisland.com/p/yellow-whipstitch-chain-tassel-slouch-bag-713926" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bright handbag</a> (also by River Island) This would be a cute style to wear on an evening out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pd8yF6r4kw/WpAKYiGW4gI/AAAAAAAAHpw/19EGOTcN6S8wD0QPGFpAqJuehXVK1osTQCLcBGAs/s1600/Spring_Fashion_Inspiration_MissNicklin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pd8yF6r4kw/WpAKYiGW4gI/AAAAAAAAHpw/19EGOTcN6S8wD0QPGFpAqJuehXVK1osTQCLcBGAs/s1600/Spring_Fashion_Inspiration_MissNicklin1.jpg" /></a></div>
If you're after a more everyday look, then I put together the distressed shorts by Top Tier Style, the mustard yellow Vans, the white H&M top, and then added some <a href="http://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/accessories/jewellery/yellow-tassel-coated-stud-earrings/p/568140185?comp=Browse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yellow earnings</a> by New Look to bring out the colour of the shoes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you enjoyed my Spring fashion inspiration, what have you got on your shopping list for this season? I'd love to know!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*This blog is a collaboration, links marked with an asterisks are sponsored*</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Fashion%20%26%20Beauty">fashion & beauty posts</a>!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-36327172893882322212017-12-10T20:10:00.000+00:002017-12-11T01:12:54.608+00:00Christmas Decoration Inspo!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kih6AzecJok/Wi2-aipZHBI/AAAAAAAAHjA/V2fQOiLNmQs29qhYjqexNMiM__ickzrJACLcBGAs/s1600/Christmas_Wishlist_MissNicklin-1528.jpg" /></div>
I absolutely love Christmas, so I've put together a little wishlist of Christmas decorations to give your home an extra sparkle!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWQdPldUFCk/Wi3AEc4QVgI/AAAAAAAAHjM/tUUpRCgTXBwTxqnZBxCY-_jQVE_Z2FfkwCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristmasWishlist_Missnicklin.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1) <a href="https://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/home-and-furniture/linea-white-and-gold-nutcracker/271434232.pd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">White And Gold Nutcracker</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2) <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/deer-stars-stocking" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Deer & Stars Stocking</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3) <a href="http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/the-white-company-spun-glass-bauble_770-10121-TDHSN/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spun Glass Bauble</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4) <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-highland-myths-owl-tree-decoration-large-white/p3230212" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Owl Tree Decoration</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5) <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/quartz-porcelain-side-plate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Quartz Porcelain Side Plate</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6) <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-highland-myths-festive-deer-room-decoration/p3232047" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Festive Deer Room Decoration</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7) <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/flock-pine-wreath" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flock Pine Wreath</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
8) <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_304008789994_-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Santa Sack</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9) <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-highland-myths-pine-cone-trio/p3230140" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Highland Myths Pine Cone Trio</a></div>
<br />
There's so many different options online that match with this theme, these are just a handful of items that caught my eye! I love the nut cracker as it follows a traditional style but looks very smart in white and gold. The plate will add glamour to any meal you serve on it (even leftovers), and the stocking is an absolute essential for Christmas time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0w_-ETLunAc/Wi3GqAd1BBI/AAAAAAAAHjc/iFomNecxQx8h0q4dvl9iCYunRDnGCyVpQCLcBGAs/s1600/Reefs_Tree_ChristmasWishlist_Missnicklin.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
Reefs are another traditional decoration that'll give visitors that festive feeling before they even step foot in your house. I've included another option and also a cute little tree in the image above! You can view the <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/pink-champagne-decorative-tree-medium" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tree here</a>, or click to view the other <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/white-glitter-pine-wreath" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">white reef</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let me know what your favourite Christmas decorations are this season!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is a collaboration with Amara</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">View more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Home%20Improvements" target="_blank">home improvement blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a><br />
<div>
</div>
</div>
<br />Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-39347972088664616442017-12-07T09:04:00.001+00:002017-12-08T10:58:12.176+00:00Win an Ice Skating Experience at the Celtic Manor’s Christmas Kingdom!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i-I3dHBv0oM/WigzYUhEJWI/AAAAAAAAHh8/UAf5WgEKfdIcAXNahkjiIINrapDzI1spACLcBGAs/s1600/Celtic-Christmas-Kingdom-Nutty-Pear--4.jpg" /></div>
<a href="http://www.nuttypear.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nutty Pear</a> has been working very closely with <a href="https://www.celtic-manor.com/index.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Celtic Manor</a> to produce some photos for their festive season, so I've teamed up with them to offer a lovely giveaway! Read on to find out how you can win an ice skating experience for four!<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V_wej2-cNXo/Wigzdw2iTYI/AAAAAAAAHiA/ze6IiTvoZJwh7NZpZlVCzEqOpO_EZq0gACLcBGAs/s1600/Celtic-Christmas-Kingdom-Nutty-Pear-0070.jpg" /></div>
Fill one of your evenings this season with a magical trip to the Celtic Manor's Christmas Kingdom! Whether you're joined with friends or family, you can jump on the ice, grab a hot drink and enjoy the atmosphere of their festive tent in the run up to Christmas with this prize! The Celtic Manor will be giving one lucky winner an ice skating package for four people which includes 45 minutes on the ice, skate hire, choice of hot chocolate, soft drink, mulled wine or a pint of beer.<br />
<br />
You can also choose to take the prize at any one of these fun special skate sessions – <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/capital-ice-party" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Capital Ice Party</a>, <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/glide-and-glow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Glide and Glow</a>, <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/let-it-snow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Let it Snow</a> <i>(family skate night)</i>, <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/dylans-ice-disco" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dylan’s Family Ice Disco</a> or <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/night-glide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Night Glide</a> <i>(adults only</i>).<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Prize Includes:</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
45 minute skating session including skate hire</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot snack from their Bratwurst Hut </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Choice of hot chocolate, soft drink, glass of mulled wine* or pint of draught beer*</div>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
How to enter</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The competition is <b>simple</b> and <b>very</b> easy to enter <i>(it's also free to enter!)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just follow <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCelticManor" target="_blank">The Celtic Manor</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Miss Nicklin</a> <i>(that's me) </i>on Twitter and retweet <a href="https://twitter.com/MissNicklin/status/938697197402673152" target="_blank">THIS</a> tweet.</div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEecTVX9GXY/Wig4usmLFXI/AAAAAAAAHiU/uWKVUvgvGOMNFR0nR63ebHyEeKJE0RDxQCLcBGAs/s1600/Celtic-Christmas-Kingdom-Nutty-Pear-1022474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEecTVX9GXY/Wig4usmLFXI/AAAAAAAAHiU/uWKVUvgvGOMNFR0nR63ebHyEeKJE0RDxQCLcBGAs/s1600/Celtic-Christmas-Kingdom-Nutty-Pear-1022474.jpg" /></a><br />
<div>
<h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rules </div>
</h4>
Must follow both <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCelticManor" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The Celtic Manor</a><span style="text-align: center;"> and </span><a href="https://twitter.com/MissNicklin" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Miss Nicklin</a><span style="text-align: center;"> </span>on Twitter.<br />
Must Retweet the tweet linked into the post<i> (quoted tweets may get missed so please RT normally) </i><br />
Competition ends at 10am (GMT time) 14th December 2017.<br />
Competition is only open to people within the UK.<br />
Travel/parking costs are not covered.<br />
Prize to be taken by 7th January - Dates and times subject to availability and exclude 25th December.<br />
Winner will be chosen at random.<br />
Winner will have 24 hours to accept prize otherwise another winner will be chosen at random.<br />
The lucky winner will be messaged via Twitter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Ice skating at Christmas Kingdom starts from £10.50 adults and £8.50 for children aged 3-12. Click for <a href="http://www.celtic-manor.com/christmas-kingdom-2017" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more information and to book</a>. </i><br />
<i>*Over 18s only for the alcoholic beverages. </i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click for even more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Christmas" target="_blank">Christmas posts</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1Coldra Woods, The Usk Valley, Newport NP18 1HQ, UK51.6022056 -2.931387099999938126.080171099999998 -44.239981099999937 77.1242401 38.377206900000061tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-8699207868168212902017-11-11T13:44:00.000+00:002018-02-26T15:50:49.838+00:00Admiral - St David's Hotel Cardiff Bay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WTLYthiNYac/WghLPI61oNI/AAAAAAAAHew/LRxTowLEraUA-JYvxrIqSgmpF1_ZbeGCQCLcBGAs/s1600/StDavids_Admirals_MissNicklin-1130758.jpg" /></div>
I recently visited the new restaurant in St David's Hotel, Admiral, to sample their menu and see how they've refreshed the restaurant (previously Tempus at Tides). <a href="http://www.admiralstdavid.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Admiral</a> has brought something new to this 5 star hotel, situated on the waterfront and overlooking the breathtaking views of Cardiff Bay. The new bar and restaurant uses fresh Welsh produce while creating Australian inspired dishes to take your tastebuds on an adventure of their own.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ltTmBhgNuw/WghK6sso23I/AAAAAAAAHek/93FBF8HdcjER1zYrYKiZZYqXN47wRvrZQCLcBGAs/s1600/StDavids_Admirals_MissNicklin-1130765.jpg" style="text-align: center;" /><br />
During my visit we were kindly welcomed by the waiting staff and taken to our table, for starters I ordered the prawns, while Jamie (Explore with Ed) went for the beef bon bon. The prawns were delicious, completed by a smokey BBQ style sauce <i>(not something I've experience with prawns before) </i>but it was very moorish and a total hit in my books!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnHa51ap25Q/WghKznZ-S4I/AAAAAAAAHeg/9iO-OANVmukgNMcAX5g2BvE1oeAY-sJFwCLcBGAs/s1600/StDavids_Admirals_MissNicklin-1130763.jpg" /></div>
For mains I opted for the mussels, while Jamie went for the popular Thai sweet potato curry. I can't say I've had mussels like this, and while I do prefer a white wine sauce with my mussels, this was a unique and tasty version of this shellfish dish. The spicy fries were also excellent, and went very well with the mussel sauce! The portions were huge, in fact neither of us could finish our plate, especially as we wanted to save room for dessert!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOt-XLgewKc/WghLArFyLjI/AAAAAAAAHeo/Mzflh-3aN-0-Xdl8CrrNdQ6EQOmuKu-ugCLcBGAs/s1600/StDavids_Admirals_MissNicklin-1130768.jpg" /></div>
We treated ourselves to dessert and went for the lemon tart and the peach melba. Both were beautifully presented and a lovely gentle finish to our flavoursome meal. Other options include; clotted cream creme brûlée, white chocolate parfait and a Welsh cheese plate.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NwBcEtUs8QY/WghLH2WayjI/AAAAAAAAHes/5na837CKrQo3I7P5JJFV01Wv6Ktnaf-wQCLcBGAs/s1600/StDavids_Admirals_MissNicklin-1130798.jpg" /></div>
Admiral have a special Christmas menu for the festive period. This features dishes such as; baked goats cheese and cranberry filo pastry, Ross on Wye free range turkey roulade and bara brith bread and butter pudding. I'm looking forward to returning, even just for some cocktails on the balcony!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Although I was invited to review Admirals, all opinions are my own.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.explorewithed.co.uk/2017/10/the-admiral-st-david-cardiff-restaurant.html" target="_blank">Read Explore with Ed's review of Admiral.</a></span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to indulge in more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/foodie" target="_blank">foodie blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<br />Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1Havannah St, Cardiff CF10 5SF, UK51.461662999999987 -3.168236799999931551.459189499999987 -3.1732792999999315 51.464136499999988 -3.1631942999999314tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-36436727751720016202017-08-22T18:14:00.001+01:002017-08-22T18:14:34.364+01:00How to Create an Instagram Worthy Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X508avzEpmg/WZxLnpy5glI/AAAAAAAAHS8/L540_h-J-L4TGYyUxF9B37K6w3RkXmd3QCLcBGAs/s1600/PenarthHeights_PinterestHouse_MissNicklin-1110108.jpg" /></div>
If you’re a regular reader of my blog then you’ll know I’ve got a soft spot for <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Home%20Improvements" target="_blank">interior design</a>. I love how you can change a house to a home with a few little tricks!<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week, I visited a stunning new property in <a href="https://www.crestnicholson.com/developments/penarth-heights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Penarth Heights</a> and have complied my favourite bits of decor into this post so you can get your interior design fix! Read on for my tips:</div>
<div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Colour Scheme</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FKBRW27rbME/WZxINCzc8YI/AAAAAAAAHSU/9vGjuoX8A_A0gGhpuGWGU0absMynvzrRQCLcBGAs/s1600/PH-Show-Home-0183.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Sticking to neutral colours in a room always looks great on Instagram and Pinterest photos, as having white or cream walls make it look clean and contemporary. I then think it's fun to add elements of colour with little decorative pieces like the items mentioned below. It also means that in the future if you decide to change the vibe of your room you can simply replace any decorative items and hey presto, you have a new room with the same walls!<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Candles</h4>
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8_qMOq6Vhc/WZxIUWJOUII/AAAAAAAAHSY/D37DaJN7WeEz-yjXNYg9_NvOtECdCVavgCLcBGAs/s1600/PenarthHeights_PinterestHouse_MissNicklin-0086.jpg" /></div>
<div>
I love candles, as I’ve said many times before, so when I saw this beautiful copper holder in the lounge I thought it looked sleek and stylish while also making it feel homely. You can also achieve a similar look with fairy lights if you'd rather not have naked flames.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Lighting</h4>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx70TPN8yqY/WZxImzmKDDI/AAAAAAAAHSc/gS62ND67dL8-07jVZXd-VO7C_CC9cReeACLcBGAs/s1600/PenarthHeights_PinterestHouse_MissNicklin-1110133.jpg" /></div>
<div>
Going on from candles, lighting is key to make a house homely. We are gone from the days where they just had to be a bulb on the end of a cord, now you can brighten up your room with a fascinating light, and my top tip is to go for warmer bulbs that compliment the light from the candles. </div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Photos</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHCwI-Tl0t4/WZxItYKZBwI/AAAAAAAAHSg/8GDBzdSypDYZqNIlbFud2alBejAZwkaGQCLcBGAs/s1600/PenarthHeights_PinterestHouse_MissNicklin-0095.jpg" /></div>
I never used to print photos but now I print some every month, they’re great for reminiscing and they also look fabulous if you manage to get a nice frame. The frame doesn't have to be expensive either, you can jazz up an old wooden frame by giving it a new lick of paint, or visit a charity shop to see what they've got!<br />
<h4>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
Flowers</div>
</h4>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vg2taulnmDA/WZxKQa_7eMI/AAAAAAAAHSs/Y-o45m4qFOoSfG2BLDoPmIavtxlkJt-CgCLcBGAs/s640/PenarthHeights_PinterestHouse_MissNicklin-0094.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<br /></div>
While flowers <i>can</i> be high maintenance and expensive, they look stunning <i>(especially if you can get seasonal ones) </i>however, you can always opt for some real-looking fake flowers that’ll make your room pop!<br />
<br />
<h4>
Cushions</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MKCgAvVjejY/WZxKzlBNOnI/AAAAAAAAHS0/Iw9xrElu2BQg9NHntWIvUzWRH2UtJA_YgCLcBGAs/s1600/PH-Show-Home-0177.jpg" /></div>
You can <b>literally</b> never have too many cushions, they make any room that extra bit homely and welcoming - be it a lounge or the bedroom! If you're feeling extra creative then why not have a blast at making your own cushions from your favourite fabric?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you’ve enjoyed my post, what’s your top tip for making your home pop?<br />
<br />
Like it? Pin it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-58QP23jBeyQ/WZxmPVzhndI/AAAAAAAAHTQ/tGFRjO0nb24QaytPwP3h-Oqq0st3GAUNQCLcBGAs/s640/Instagramworthyhome.jpg" width="416" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photos with 'NP' watermark by <a href="http://www.nuttypear.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nutty Pear</a> / <a href="http://www.explorewithed.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Explore with Ed</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is a collaboration with <a href="https://www.crestnicholson.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Crest Nicholson</a>. All opinions are my own.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">View more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Home%20Improvements" target="_blank">home improvement blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px}
</style></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-91362440115819021702017-08-10T08:30:00.000+01:002017-09-17T21:51:48.105+01:00Drayton Manor Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WXwoJhhjNnw/WW87j33q7JI/AAAAAAAAHIo/l1hS_WgFpNEwLECOB71oJlxrX27t4ng9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Drayton_Manor_MissNicklin_Lumix-1020247.jpg" /></div>
I visited Drayton Manor theme park with work (Lumix UK) for a team building and training day, in which we were put in their hotel for an overnight stay and then had a few hours at the park. As I grew up in Worcestershire this is the theme park I used to visit with school so I was interested to see how much it had changed.<br />
<a name='more'></a><h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>The Hotel</u></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6PaaKYzGkw/WYkAAAyXoeI/AAAAAAAAHPM/G-YxKbJu4CMQeOiNlQfY8I3CtR15CWu8gCLcBGAs/s1600/DraytonManor_MissNicklinw-1020220.jpg" /></div>
The hotel was very clean, well kept and child friendly <i>(as you would imagine).</i> I was slightly disappointed that my room didn’t have a fun theme, although you can pay extra to stay in the Thomas the Tank Engine rooms if you wish - I just thought it being a theme park hotel they would all be themed. The room was decorated well though, with a purple theme throughout and a nice spacious bathroom with all the facilities I could need in the room itself (TV, chair, desk, iron, fridge etc)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dy03UoUUbmc/WYkAHFeOu_I/AAAAAAAAHPQ/f0-IwmqFBI0ZKI3rxFnsRv5QYL3fpA2SgCLcBGAs/s1600/DraytonManor_MissNicklinw-1020194.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Food at the Hotel</u></h4>
<b>Breakfast</b><br />
<br />
The breakfast selection was good, I decided not to have a cooked breakfast and opted for a fruit and yogurt continental meal. It filled me up and tasted good so I have no complaints on that.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lunch</b><br />
<br />
We had a buffet in the resturant for lunch and to be honest I wasn’t that impressed. The selection was lacking and it was very unclear as to what was vegetarian and what wasn’t. It was very heavy (Chinese style food) which isn’t exactly what I fancied before I entered the park. They did have some fresh fruit and salad but the salad selection wasn’t very much and it didn’t look that appetising. <br />
<br />
<b>Dinner</b><br />
<br />
I had dinner in the hotel bar which had quite a good selection of food. However, there were four of us eating, one of which had ordered a paella. This came out within 5 minutes, whereas the rest of us waited over 30 minutes for our baguettes. The staff did ask if we wanted them to heat the paella up but by that point we were all starving and decided to just eat it how it was. My steak baguette was delicious, not something I usually order so I was impressed by that.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>The Theme Park</u></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bacB-h0qHXM/WYj8ntao3SI/AAAAAAAAHO8/ky4feoDVjzsIQ69o-ukv4z9yFQIUefGTQCLcBGAs/s1600/Drayton_Manor_MissNicklin_Lumix-1020371.jpg" /></div>
I only had a few hours at the park but luckily we went on a week day which meant queues were very small, however, a few of the rides were shut (including Storm Force 10) To make matters worse, after we had queued for 20 mins for G Force we were then told that it was experiencing technical difficulties so we could not go on it. I did manage to go on one ride though, Shockwave, which was great fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7ahDBucQaM/WYj824Oks3I/AAAAAAAAHPA/B_zMEyEjNToQ6FI5FmVjwQIRfN7DW-MPACLcBGAs/s1600/Drayton_Manor_MissNicklin_Lumix-1020269.jpg" /></div>
The zoo was good, but I was disappointed to see the bird centre was shut as I love birds and it was pretty much the only thing I wanted to see. However they still had some beautiful parrots in the cages.<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njPKqVa0pDk/WW88HwmNM7I/AAAAAAAAHIs/Nj9mDQQe9jM48l1nhJrRcwttu6fnNNy6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Drayton_Manor_MissNicklin_Lumix-1020302.jpg" /><br />
Overall, I could have spent a few more hours at the park but felt a bit let down by the closed rides and food quality as well as the service. I would like to return to see if it was just a bad day at the park <i>(especially to visit the bird centre) </i>but I'm not in any rush.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Pin on Pinterest:</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-54zWEAaA51A/WYkCtoJCzeI/AAAAAAAAHPc/b4BtQlodsvIPbey0-Bm-XrckpuI2KUBoQCLcBGAs/s400/DraytonManorReview.jpg" width="260" /></div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">While my stay was paid for by Lumix, it is in no way sponsored by Drayton Manor.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">All photos taken on my </span></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01LXKRF7V/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B01LXKRF7V&linkCode=as2&tag=missnicklin-21&linkId=c02cf52d9f3dea99fe469a9bd8fb330f" target="_blank">Panasonic DMC-G80MEB-K</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=missnicklin-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B01LXKRF7V" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />*</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Explore more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Adventures" target="_blank">adventure blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1Staffordshire, UK52.8792745 -2.05718679999995451.651074 -4.6389737999999543 54.107475 0.52460020000004581tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-88300907443775446532017-08-08T00:23:00.003+01:002017-09-17T21:52:50.987+01:00City Cruises Afternoon Tea Review & Traverse Bloggers Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1b0IPWasEE/WYhb-9rnbbI/AAAAAAAAHN4/mmn8dG1T1CkUPZr-2AtuWazVrhTqZlJXwCLcBGAs/s1600/London_MissNicklin_CityCruisesReview-1100656.jpg" /></div>
I've been blogging for just over 2 years and so I'm always behind the camera trying to capture things, but on Wednesday I decided to mix things up a bit and film my day to London to show you what we get up to, which includes a visit to Smollesky's and a ride on City Cruises!<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e_dK6rGlTP8/WYj0U0cbsYI/AAAAAAAAHOg/LPra9tTMMvkF5S1ex9ErwcnOLKxswwJSwCLcBGAs/s1600/London-Nutty-Pear-0394.jpg" /></div>
We drove from South Wales to Hammersmith and parked quite close to the tube to get into London and avoid congestion chargers, we usually do this or we park at Slough. The only thing with Slough is that you have to jump on a train to go to London which takes a bit longer especially as they aren't as regular as tubes. We paid just over £16 for 12 hours of parking right next to the tube, we found it via <a href="https://www.justpark.com/invite/49E65459/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Just Park</a> which is really easy and instant to use.<br />
<div>
<img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QU_p_WxVQ4Q/WYhcV_NbfwI/AAAAAAAAHN8/FY1DRZ0M048byWSnrLInI8s8U2pCA5zKQCLcBGAs/s1600/London_MissNicklin_CityCruisesReview-1100639.jpg" /><br />
Once we got to Hammersmith we went straight to Tower Hill, which is where The Tower bridge is as well as The Tower of London <i>(a famous castle where Anne Boleyn got beheaded)</i>. Next we jumped on our City Cruises boat at Tower Millennium pier and went off for an hour and a half to enjoy the views of London while having afternoon tea.<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CgBBT_fwjeQ/WYhc6JpssUI/AAAAAAAAHOE/Ox_2jPL7DLI_EwsUMAeKCFSosulqgz_8QCLcBGAs/s1600/City-Cruises-Nutty-Pear-.jpg" /><br />
The boat experience was great, it was very clean and staff were friendly and more than happy to help. The food was good too, but as mentioned in my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9txOmW9i0zg" target="_blank">vlog</a>, it wasn't the best afternoon tea I've ever had. However, it did tick all the boxes in terms of what to expect (sandwiches, cakes <i>and scones of course</i>, as well as unlimited tea and coffee). The areas where I thought it lacked was that it didn't offer a variety of tea - I had heartburn that day so I fancied a ginger tea however they didn't have any. The scones were quite dry and I found the salmon a bit tough.<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PqjqUKiH2Nw/WYhdIL5_YbI/AAAAAAAAHOI/Fw-cLIir4OsnfdUptnVIzrBEBV64_Uz4gCLcBGAs/s1600/City-Cruises-Nutty-Pear-0328.jpg" />After our afternoon tea experience we made our way to Canary Wharf for the Traverse event with the Philippines Department of Tourism. The event was held at Smollesky's and was a fantastic do. The food was superb and the cocktails went down a treat. We had a live band performing which were awesome and then we had the chance to do our own karaoke <i>(which obviously I did)</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QXdf2Of6wPM/WYj0DcjcZYI/AAAAAAAAHOc/MqRU2hz9stIhGrfY1wLW3E9XnaTgxMV5QCLcBGAs/s1600/London-Nutty-Pear-.jpg" /></div>
We got home at about 3am after a wonderful few hours, huge thanks to City Cruises, Traverse and the Philippines for such a great day! Plus a special thanks to <a href="http://www.explorewithed.co.uk/" target="_blank">Explore with Ed</a> (Jamie) for letting me use some of his photos!</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You can watch my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9txOmW9i0zg" target="_blank">full vlog</a> below: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9txOmW9i0zg" width="480"></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Filmed on my <span style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01LXKRF7V/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B01LXKRF7V&linkCode=as2&tag=missnicklin-21&linkId=c02cf52d9f3dea99fe469a9bd8fb330f" target="_blank">Panasonic DMC-G80MEB-K</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=missnicklin-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B01LXKRF7V" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />*</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Pin on Pinterest:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6bwiBSgCeI/WYj11yl9WOI/AAAAAAAAHOs/4tRxAlfmb5wCiYwx1bT2VP3iyq1lZLIwQCLcBGAs/s400/12%2Bhours%2Bin%2BLondon.jpg" width="260" /></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Explore more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Adventures" target="_blank">adventure blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Jamie was invited to try City Cruises Afternoon Tea for free, I attended as a plus one. All opinions are my own.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*Affiliate link</i></span></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com6London, UK51.5073509 -0.1277582999999822351.1912379 -0.77320529999998222 51.8234639 0.51768870000001777tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-55236775674933805242017-07-22T08:30:00.000+01:002017-08-08T00:28:28.483+01:00West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mNKbPS7ROpU/WWRvMtQvCeI/AAAAAAAAHFo/S8NnuPf_UjEvcEEoVg-kaz3xyLZPTP_0ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7374.jpg" /></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park is located in Bewdley, Worcestershire, and is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered animals, as well as a small theme park for a fun filled family day out.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMT-WWJkK5c/WWRvkD8Bt3I/AAAAAAAAHGE/E_eqAPcaSTcSBpZbWLjmLC0VDvI3efz-ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7421.jpg" /><br />
With a wide selection of activities I rate this place pretty high. Personally I love the drive through safari where you can get up close and personal with zebras, giraffes and camels <i>(not to mention the Ellipsen Waterbuck which will attempt to bash your window if you try to stroke them) </i>- animal mix can be purchased at the main gate (£3.50 per pack) and then fed to various animals (all listed in the free little map received on arrival)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fAq2qCxJvD8/WW85vbfJ9KI/AAAAAAAAHIk/ZNKaKNZZmT8QsTYad8EHwIYbclas7cNPgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WestMidlandsSafari_Review-9965.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #93c47d; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>Tip for Animal Photography: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Try upping your shutter speed to catch animal movement<i style="font-weight: normal;"> - available in manual mode, Shutter priority mode, or P mode.</i></span></div>
</div>
<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1nJiwLPzM50/WWRvQFpBtlI/AAAAAAAAHFs/DZ4oOcVBmMUwryQj9auE-YCeA5UIs_fSgCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7379.jpg" /><br />
It takes about an hour to drive around the whole safari, but there are shortcuts if you’d prefer to skip out some of the more dangerous species such as the big cats. Years back they used to have monkeys which were infamous for destroying cars, but now they just have the odd buck that’ll try to push it’s luck.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihZhsXX--iA/WWRvdUUQwaI/AAAAAAAAHF4/dsNKsrKpefUYTGPJPd-Gf0xPGHseaMZ7ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihZhsXX--iA/WWRvdUUQwaI/AAAAAAAAHF4/dsNKsrKpefUYTGPJPd-Gf0xPGHseaMZ7ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7415.jpg" /></a><br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GLZYh1rF1mI/WWRvTxlUmUI/AAAAAAAAHFw/MQDc97ZilRAT9i9JxmzrFNM60HT4m_qngCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-7394.jpg" /><br />
After you’ve been round the drive-through safari you can park your car and enter the park. Parking is vast and free so unless you go on an <i>exceptionally</i> busy day you should always get a spot. Upon entering there’s gift shops, food stalls and sinks for washing your hands <i>(highly recommended if you’ve been handling animal feed/stroking the animals)</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kwy4Xc2Uk9E/WWRwztZ-niI/AAAAAAAAHGM/2VZWNRUlA1kcZ-4pmROYH44D27s2VgCxwCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kwy4Xc2Uk9E/WWRwztZ-niI/AAAAAAAAHGM/2VZWNRUlA1kcZ-4pmROYH44D27s2VgCxwCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070829.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">Then as you walk through, the Penguin Cove is on your left along with the sea lion show arena. Usually they have a few shows on a day </span><i style="text-align: center;">(they last about 20 mins) </i><span style="text-align: center;">I would definitely recommend making time to watch the show as the sea lion </span><i style="text-align: center;">(and it’s trainer)</i><span style="text-align: center;"> have a lot of character!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww_6nFeaBHo/WWRxe84Y9_I/AAAAAAAAHGg/Os0biD6thoIb28oBhHiqx8K4_3QWiXWMQCLcBGAs/s1600/WMSP_4kPhoto-1080012.jpg" /></div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qq073ieglEo/WWRxM2SLy6I/AAAAAAAAHGY/Zd-l8wDbR2AbLnUaF3SwjQEEZ9zvDrikgCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070904.jpg" /></div>
To your right you’ve got the Discovery Trail which includes; Twilight Cave (bats), Creepy Crawlies, Animal Encounters and SeaQuarium. The bat section is very interesting but you’ve got a 50/50 chance of actually seeing anything. This bit might be a little scary for young children as it’s very dark and the bats sometimes just fly straight past you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8BvoGjGctkI/WWRw4zEvwaI/AAAAAAAAHGU/e5yt2BTNAEkhLtNb50IHogkQfvYpa2oRACEwYBhgL/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070863.jpg" /></div>
Walking further into the park, you’ll find my favourite place - <b>Lorikeet Landing</b>! This is on your left and while it’s pretty obvious, just make sure you keep an eye out for it. I highly suggest saving some change for the nectar pots (£1.50 each) as it’s a lot of fun! The birds will land on you, maybe even 3 at a time, they will nip if you try to stroke them and they may poo on you! But still, definitely check it out!<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #93c47d; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>Tip for Feeding the Lorikeets:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #93c47d;">Cover your nectar pots until you've fully entered the room and don't forget to have your camera at the ready!</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H1JXUagTTcI/WWRw4o5SDnI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/I4-FTsfVjEoWePCyc69xqaB9a-3S8aK1ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070877.jpg" /><br />
Further on you’ve got Land of the Living Dinosaurs and the Reptile House to your left. The Reptile House has regular shows if you’d like to find out more about these cold blooded species. Then there's a food place to your right (Dino Diner) and toilets to your left. Further down is the new Safari Academy which I'm yet to visit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oSX1mBydFG0/WWRxwV__M3I/AAAAAAAAHGk/dn1DuuLAmmEvTz6cFl_DoSg9dxWqMEF3gCLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1070911.jpg" /></div>
If you keep on walking you’ll find yourself in the Adventure Theme Park which has a decent amount of rides to keep you busy for a few hours. Our favourite rides were Venom Tower Drop, Zambezi Water Splash and Twister Coaster. I’d suggest buying your tickets online and getting the one that allows you to go on the rides as it can save quite a bit of money.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NXN8WpKotJs/WWRyDiqUTLI/AAAAAAAAHGo/V6cVD0xlofU800jDZZTwFGPVMcr2FlExACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1080056.jpg" /></div>
The final part of the park is the African Village which is home to the meerkats, goats and lemurs <i>(a popular section for young children).</i> We watched and took part in the meerkat feeding which was fun. The lemur wood is very fascinating but you need to keep an eye out as they are very fast and sometimes not that obvious.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWce3TEPpyg/WWRyO8H-ltI/AAAAAAAAHGw/AJzxnk3E7ZAw5Ptedo07Nb2MvRlY0EFKACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1080018-2.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1500" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hB3zdgLFss/WWRyK52ksEI/AAAAAAAAHGs/mfEp6oDuuP0qW2SZ8wOltT2JhQVmk9b8ACLcBGAs/s1600/West_Midlands_Safari_Park_Review_Miss_Nicklin-1080052.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Food at West Midlands Safari Park</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6-RmaldHQ58/WW83np_HfgI/AAAAAAAAHIY/ZPK92FwxdLsMqygqatN3kWbcIXb2e4_-QCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_WestMidlandsSafari_Review-9966.jpg" /></div>
On both of the recent times we’ve visited, we went to Burger Co which is an African themed restaurant serving burgers, chicken sandwiches and salads. We felt it had quality food that was affordable and good service. The drinks were refillable too which is always a plus on a hot day!<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Accommodation in Worcestershire</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ0NItfwjWs/WW85WnR9p2I/AAAAAAAAHIc/g4Va7sup0A4uECmN3uy0e1f5a6zL-P3RACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_TheChandlery_Worcester--2.jpg" /></div>
We stayed the night in Worcester to make our trip more relaxing, and as my family owns a Bed and Breakfast there it made perfect sense as our drive was less than 30 mins to the park and avoided major roads and traffic. Parking is free at <a href="http://www.worcesterbb.com/index.html" target="_blank">The Chandlery</a> and breakfast is included in the price.<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #93c47d; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>Tip for Staying at The Chandlery: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>If you're not a breakfast person then ask the B&B for a packed lunch instead so you have some sarnies for your day out.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UtNciQfWtFg/WW85ao5Z_HI/AAAAAAAAHIg/AIFaP_9poVMRdV-d_xTnoRxbFpAN3HEsgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_TheChandlery_Worcester--3.jpg" /></div>
<br />
I hope this blog has been helpful, please do let me know if you decide to visit the park and what your thoughts are. Pin the photo below if you found this blog useful:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2NmZmygSl-c/WXnbv9Q4mAI/AAAAAAAAHLw/8RhDzTEwSR4yP0HVx6ka__BFLtaH8uzlgCLcBGAs/s400/WestMidlandsSafariParkReview.jpg" width="260" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This blog is <b>not </b>sponsored by WMSP, it is my own opinion in which I have not been paid or gifted anything for the review.</span></i></i><br />
<i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Explore more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Adventures" target="_blank">adventure blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></i></div>
<i>
</i><style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px}
</style>
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/13592193/?claim=j4xxnc8wejb">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com3West Midland Safari Park, Spring Grove, Bewdley DY12 1LF, UK52.37863 -2.291775000000029631.982722000000003 -43.600369000000029 72.774538 39.01681899999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-88346115075422837902017-07-19T11:30:00.001+01:002018-02-26T15:51:32.486+00:003 New Updates at McDonalds!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IZsmWyW8NDc/WW8wGQMZSeI/AAAAAAAAHHk/z-gFh_P3VOwb0fN1o6oM7Ph1QI0J7QbPgCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-0392.jpg" /></div>
While I will always support independents and locally run restaurants, McDonalds is <i>admittedly</i> a guilty pleasure of mine. Mainly because it's so quick, affordable and you always know what you're going to get <i>(although sometimes they do forget the fries with my meal...) </i>so when McDonalds invited me to see the new changes they've put into place I was<b> down</b>.<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCPj9fgCdmI/WW8wY_9mduI/AAAAAAAAHHo/mpx9P-JMGDs3ye7eWlYd1Pl_Mvvacj1gQCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-1100222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCPj9fgCdmI/WW8wY_9mduI/AAAAAAAAHHo/mpx9P-JMGDs3ye7eWlYd1Pl_Mvvacj1gQCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-1100222.jpg" /></a></div>
It's no secret that <a href="http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/ukhome.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">McDonalds</a> have received their fair share of bad press over the years, but I for one have noticed the new additions and changes that have already been put into place in a few of their UK restaurants. They are trying to revolutionise and upgrade their entire process, from sourcing the items on their menu, to making your time spent at their restaurant more enjoyable for the whole family.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So here's three changes you need to look out for over the next with months at Maccy D's </div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Easier Ways to Order</u></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBAGKjOtr2Q/WW8wlBO7qUI/AAAAAAAAHHs/wzw1lOkmrx8ID2EcisLMZaIKkctnDWrDwCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-1100226.jpg" /></div>
If you've stepped into a McDonalds recently then you've probably seen the big white kiosks. These aren't just for you to price up what you want, you can actually order through the kiosks (making it easier than ever to customise your meal), and then you can choose table service if you're wanting to get seated and avoid the queues at the till.<br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tXPdahdwR6Q/WW8wxjEWy9I/AAAAAAAAHHw/BTTuDYKaFb8dcJZRD60cYLRO8g2ulE-uACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-1100227.jpg" /><br />
They've just introduced a new way of ordering <a href="http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/ukhome/Restaurants/McDonaldsonyourmobile.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">via your mobile</a> too so you can place your order before you've even got to the restaurant <i>(just when hangry starts to kick in...!)</i> and finally, you can now get your food delivered right to your door with <a href="http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/ukhome/delivery.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">McDelivery</a> <i>(I think the hungover me let out a little squeal when I discovered that)</i><br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Fresher, Faster Food</u></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zh0oYvmK9-4/WW8w6zf0MHI/AAAAAAAAHH0/CoQWu-sChVAeiOHq7HIG2xzXonGQyT1KQCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-0372.jpg" /></div>
No more 'food bins' waiting at the front with pre-made burgers sweating away, now every order is made to order, so if you're one of those who prefers it without gherkins but thinks it'll take longer to prepare then think again. As soon as the team receives your order, it'll be ready in no time as it goes down the production line as quickly and efficiently as possible.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Signature Menu</u></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9nsH4LC5RpM/WW8xJvp7d_I/AAAAAAAAHH4/cgDPDe9VtdstkQU_8xUurA-VFL7zzeAqACLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-0381.jpg" /></div>
I personally really like the signature menu as it keeps us foodies satisfied when we want something a little different without the price tag. What was very interesting to discover was that each item is put through numerous tests and trials before it's even launched to make sure it tastes just right. <i>(Dream job right there)</i><br />
<img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh7Bn2834cw/WW8xjJyxaZI/AAAAAAAAHIA/Yrs-Qtc6QUk-xb1g8i-oOiR_3DxxKJKmQCLcBGAs/s1600/MissNicklin_McDonalds_Review_Cardiff-9278.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So there you have it, a few things for you to try out next time you're craving a McDonalds! What's your favourite thing on the menu?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">While this blog is sponsored by McDonald's, all opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photos by <a href="http://www.nuttypear.co.uk/portfolio" target="_blank">Nutty Pear</a> / <a href="http://www.explorewithed.co.uk/" target="_blank">Explore with Ed</a></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Click to indulge in more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/foodie" target="_blank">foodie blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px}
</style></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1Cardiff, UK51.481581000000013 -3.179089999999973851.323433500000014 -3.5018134999999737 51.639728500000011 -2.8563664999999738tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-14000273693329303022017-06-02T21:32:00.002+01:002017-06-02T21:32:50.894+01:00While She Sleeps | The Globe Cardiff | Photo Gallery | 01/06/17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsnZWoa_AV0/WTHB_chPqGI/AAAAAAAAHBU/qy6pa-mWaAcwVtF1R7EmDNgwz-4CnA6OgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsnZWoa_AV0/WTHB_chPqGI/AAAAAAAAHBU/qy6pa-mWaAcwVtF1R7EmDNgwz-4CnA6OgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8396.jpg" /></a></div>
Last night <a href="https://www.facebook.com/whileshesleeps/" target="_blank">While She Sleeps</a> packed out the Globe in Cardiff! Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/imperialmusicuk/" target="_blank">Imperial Music</a>, I was able to take some photos of their set and the supporting bands; When We Were Wolves and The Family.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
When We Were Wolves</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_R4L3OdMpw/WTHDyXhYGOI/AAAAAAAAHBY/Tj-Q-xNYAiEWwh9dw5m7OH_Bv5KczKuYACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="1000" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_R4L3OdMpw/WTHDyXhYGOI/AAAAAAAAHBY/Tj-Q-xNYAiEWwh9dw5m7OH_Bv5KczKuYACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/whenwewerewolves1" target="_blank">When We Were Wolves</a> (W4) are a 5 piece post-hardcore band from South Wales. With a new album on the way, the boys have a lot to give and they showed that by opening the night with a bang, playing 3 of their heavy new songs and 2 classics.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CE-fHy6zGwc/WTHEknI4pzI/AAAAAAAAHBc/lFYUl25sl-kKXs2Eb3TF9_8L0uxbiwnXwCLcB/s1600/WWWW_MissNicklin-8068-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CE-fHy6zGwc/WTHEknI4pzI/AAAAAAAAHBc/lFYUl25sl-kKXs2Eb3TF9_8L0uxbiwnXwCLcB/s1600/WWWW_MissNicklin-8068-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
The Family</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVCe2fW1flU/WTHFjismB3I/AAAAAAAAHBk/VCgxeO6t-vULzBmkZayMYwkOkDsr3tW6wCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVCe2fW1flU/WTHFjismB3I/AAAAAAAAHBk/VCgxeO6t-vULzBmkZayMYwkOkDsr3tW6wCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/thefamilylovesyou" target="_blank">The Family</a> are a Yorkshire based band who recently released their EP; 'Welcome To The Family'. They've joined WSS on three dates of this album release tour including Plymouth, Dover, and of course Cardiff. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfxdsJkGjho/WTHFo7Rw8PI/AAAAAAAAHBo/n9hbSEP2fYgDS3zsdRKS_8RQSmlM1--ggCLcB/s1600/TheFamily_MissNicklin-8109-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfxdsJkGjho/WTHFo7Rw8PI/AAAAAAAAHBo/n9hbSEP2fYgDS3zsdRKS_8RQSmlM1--ggCLcB/s1600/TheFamily_MissNicklin-8109-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
While She Sleeps</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LI8e2k_2RiE/WTHHaotDh7I/AAAAAAAAHBs/k9NoiNmY8H0guwjOvThWNfMmqJq1St5egCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LI8e2k_2RiE/WTHHaotDh7I/AAAAAAAAHBs/k9NoiNmY8H0guwjOvThWNfMmqJq1St5egCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_WhileSheSleeps_3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
While She Sleeps (WSS) are a Sheffield metalcore band. They are currently finishing up their 'You Are We' album release tour, which included over 20 gigs across 2 months. They absolutely smashed last night and gave Cardiff a night to remember.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3l4s7imSMoI/WTHI23z7RUI/AAAAAAAAHB8/uuQp86gy8dMv5iJXLisiiMATo4g_aZhsgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-7769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3l4s7imSMoI/WTHI23z7RUI/AAAAAAAAHB8/uuQp86gy8dMv5iJXLisiiMATo4g_aZhsgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-7769.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uaAHAZboZtU/WTHI2mM11rI/AAAAAAAAHB4/hR6uRWxwa7oXDvPoxYulek0104RFHrC9ACLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-7764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uaAHAZboZtU/WTHI2mM11rI/AAAAAAAAHB4/hR6uRWxwa7oXDvPoxYulek0104RFHrC9ACLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-7764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uaAHAZboZtU/WTHI2mM11rI/AAAAAAAAHB4/hR6uRWxwa7oXDvPoxYulek0104RFHrC9ACLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-7764.jpg" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gBqZBDOW7A/WTHI2rmCHOI/AAAAAAAAHB0/9faaHh_XFB0tn0-MhQt6U4q4u0_X1RuFgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8183-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gBqZBDOW7A/WTHI2rmCHOI/AAAAAAAAHB0/9faaHh_XFB0tn0-MhQt6U4q4u0_X1RuFgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8183-2.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WL1yCZIGhIo/WTHI3kdzyII/AAAAAAAAHCA/Sg2rNA6hMfkYSUpKsk17ZT25foEPmAVpwCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WL1yCZIGhIo/WTHI3kdzyII/AAAAAAAAHCA/Sg2rNA6hMfkYSUpKsk17ZT25foEPmAVpwCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8234.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NWNjJm3Tgqs/WTHI4HHEYSI/AAAAAAAAHCE/LrPyBAoy1iowSMmfEc9t_x8kBxlxQC79wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NWNjJm3Tgqs/WTHI4HHEYSI/AAAAAAAAHCE/LrPyBAoy1iowSMmfEc9t_x8kBxlxQC79wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8303.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGcY5ea4GM8/WTHI4toTkEI/AAAAAAAAHCI/XiwihcLKIf4t0Gh-j-M08rzn_7AiFMpvgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8360-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGcY5ea4GM8/WTHI4toTkEI/AAAAAAAAHCI/XiwihcLKIf4t0Gh-j-M08rzn_7AiFMpvgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8360-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arfsygX9c2w/WTHI5wb_49I/AAAAAAAAHCQ/MZja_MUdEVYh8lLi7UJf_oqKuRZx8gqjwCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8399-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arfsygX9c2w/WTHI5wb_49I/AAAAAAAAHCQ/MZja_MUdEVYh8lLi7UJf_oqKuRZx8gqjwCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8399-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7WYulmueu9s/WTHI6OIMgsI/AAAAAAAAHCU/HACSRUT61hU3ztGN94rBZsNP7AHpDnXRgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7WYulmueu9s/WTHI6OIMgsI/AAAAAAAAHCU/HACSRUT61hU3ztGN94rBZsNP7AHpDnXRgCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8415.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FwQkP3OgpZc/WTHI6jzQxRI/AAAAAAAAHCY/yFCk6WVs6Xgi4WuefHlFcvqVquE6xAlDQCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8533-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FwQkP3OgpZc/WTHI6jzQxRI/AAAAAAAAHCY/yFCk6WVs6Xgi4WuefHlFcvqVquE6xAlDQCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8533-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_i6Hrkv4-c8/WTHI7opZzTI/AAAAAAAAHCg/eHHACyV_GzQIcGER42eMOTFMmHksRWZ6wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8655-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_i6Hrkv4-c8/WTHI7opZzTI/AAAAAAAAHCg/eHHACyV_GzQIcGER42eMOTFMmHksRWZ6wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8655-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpCr6KpJNVw/WTHI7MC_WsI/AAAAAAAAHCc/F9d9QgvfitEhdUl6ZGE2TXutbRzoc0N3wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpCr6KpJNVw/WTHI7MC_WsI/AAAAAAAAHCc/F9d9QgvfitEhdUl6ZGE2TXutbRzoc0N3wCLcB/s1600/WSS_MissNicklin-8556.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Contact me if you would like to use any of my images: <a href="mailto:missnicklinblog@gmail.com">missnicklinblog@gmail.com</a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>View <a href="http://www.nuttypear.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nutty Pear</a> for event coverage</i></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1125 Albany Rd, Cardiff CF24 3NS, UK51.494252900000014 -3.165220999999974131.036412900000013 -44.473814999999973 71.952092900000011 38.143373000000025tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-35167468706944199462017-04-01T14:03:00.000+01:002017-08-08T00:28:47.369+01:00Experiencing Zip World! (North Wales)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0A26WGOSL50/WN-F19xr7HI/AAAAAAAAG78/FdtPTWr2oR0d7CN1z9l6s1UGZo9uZ576gCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3143.jpg" /></div>
<a name='more'></a>If you've ever ventured to North Wales then you'll know it's surrounded by stunning scenery, mountains with peaks covered in snow, lakes and a <i>lot</i> of sheep. More recently it's become known for the <a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zip World</a> adventure park which is home to the worlds' fastest zip line and the longest in Europe. However, the fun doesn't stop at the mile long zip line which is what I went to discover...<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/detail/velocity" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Velocity</a> - Europe's Longest Zip Wire</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqQnKCiMLOI/WN-GsR-7GaI/AAAAAAAAG8I/4zyxJLIKqlY5DKi1ju8rmlBVV1qp83whgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_8.jpg" /></div>
</div>
Kicking our day off with a flying start <i>(literally)</i>, we got suited and booted at the Zip World base in Bethesda and made our way up the quarry for our first zip line of the day - to prepare you for Velocity, Zip World made a smaller and less <i>terrifying</i> zip line which is still a lot of fun. While that one was pretty awesome, we knew that what lay ahead of us was far more exciting. Up we went in a little red truck through the old quarry, until eventually we got to the top... The views were spectacular and are worth a visit even if you can't stomach the zip wire (check out their quarry tour if that sounds more up your street). We waited in line as we watched other people from our group get belted up and set off for the ride, as our time came nearer we both got pretty nervous, but nevertheless we faced our fear and did it! It was an incredible experience with breathtaking views and a huge adrenalin rush. View the <b>slowed</b> down footage of Velocity below:<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LCanClbbI0A" width="650"></iframe>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/detail/tree-top-nets" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zip World Tree Top Nets</a> - The Longest Net Walkway in Europe</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QkPgNpfrr2A/WN-Jd6Fey4I/AAAAAAAAG8c/gp0BWVhvrXARIz46vw9stYYEePc7iOWkwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_12.jpg" /></div>
The tree top nets are fun for the whole family, as they can be enjoyed from ages 3 and up. The nets are popular with groups, especially parties, and it's easy to see why. The suspended nets wind through 250m of North Wales woodland and have bouncy nets, ball-pits and slides along the way, leaving you to find your way however you please <i>(bounce, hop, skip or jump!)</i> You don't need a harness for this adventure as you're surrounded by 3m high walls of netting to keep you and your loved ones safe as you explore. There's also designated areas for young ones and a couple of 'cabin' style lookouts to chill in. We had fun playing with the balls and rolling around while bird watching in the surrounding trees.<br />
<div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/detail/fforest-zip-safari" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zip Safari</a> - A Hands-On Adventure in The Trees</h4>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bBOUy5MzJTM/WN-JjtPFcLI/AAAAAAAAG8g/Gdvd6bGcyWUbCvJwXa5xF1NhToIjMvBrwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_13.jpg" /></div>
</div>
Zip Safari opened in March 2016 and it includes 23 zip lines and 6 other rope courses within the forest of Betws-y-Coed. The highest point of the adventure is 60ft, and the total length is 565m, which takes about two hours to complete. Zip Safari had to be my personal favourite as it was a nice mix of zip lines, view-seeing and challenges. The rope courses include things like log walking (watch my video to see more) however if you don't fancy pushing yourself too much then there's 'easier' routes you can take. During this adventure you'll reach a bigger platform which is ideal for a selfie as it has a stunning view!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b0qRr9d10Zw" width="650"></iframe><br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Eating at Zip World</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJCgpfk29Uw/WN-LCcyLK-I/AAAAAAAAG8s/p6-hKgOpU_0ImeUxIU04td4In2x5GoIuwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_14.jpg" /></div>
Between going on the Tree Top Nets and Zip Safari, we fuelled up at the cafe they have on site. I ordered a panini while my boyfriend went for a cheese toastie! The value for money was fantastic, the service was brilliant and the food was delicious! </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
For those only going to their Velocity site, they have a burger van next to reception, but they are currently developing a resturant and food area which should be fantastic once it's finished.</div>
<br />
<h4>
New This Year - <a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/news/view/experience-the-uks-only-fforest-coaster" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Zip World Fforest Coaster</a></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EYwJ3SBgy8/WN-LTrdgHlI/AAAAAAAAG80/aZbXUX7DO2AkcuAhvMydcQxj04rrX2ETQCLcB/s1600/coaster.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
New to Zip World next month is their Fforest coaster, this will give you the opportunity to control your speed as you rocket through 1km of woodland scenery and the surrounding mountains. The all weather ride reaches speeds of up to 25mph and includes 10 bends that'll keep you on your toes <i>(or rather on your seat - hopefully!) </i>This will be a fun new addition to their site which is suitable for ages 3 to 93!<br />
<br />
If you're looking to stay the night in North Wales then red my blog about <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2017/04/a-little-luxury-on-llandudno-seafront.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Llandudno Bay hotel</a>. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/zipworlduk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zip World on Twitter</a> / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/zipworlduk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pin on Pinterest:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W6GCNaGw_rs/WXnh5P9f_bI/AAAAAAAAHMI/Tuuwe0wobbQVMbDgaTXuQg1JDVtGXsb5QCLcBGAs/s400/Zip_World_North_Wales_Review.jpg" width="260" /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My adventure was complimentary but my opinions are my own</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Explore more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Adventures" target="_blank">adventure blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br /></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com4North Wales, UK53.0711149 -3.808078300000033851.8474544 -6.3898653000000341 54.2947754 -1.2262913000000339tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-31118575062495359802017-03-31T13:58:00.000+01:002017-09-17T21:56:30.135+01:00Luxury on Llandudno Seafront! (North Wales)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pw0esBfkiYw/WN7g_HAYo1I/AAAAAAAAG5c/rFarvgsLYGUzGjSpUtAJCjVp-eurTdWxACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3183.jpg" /></div>
I was kindly invited to North Wales to experience Zip World <i>(<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2017/04/experiencing-zip-world-in-north-wales.html" target="_blank">read my Zip World review</a>)</i> and the beauty of the Welsh seafront at Llandudno. We stayed the night at Llandudno Bay hotel and during our trip we spent some time exploring what the surrounding areas had to offer....<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9EWbHOSgXLY/WN7lEqH3B2I/AAAAAAAAG6Y/0o5XnGsNelQjTv8_F-f1j41a6WjSp7UpwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_2b.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
The Hotel</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jEgbTx7RL2w/WN7h6AWLCCI/AAAAAAAAG54/IURdw070GKw14nr5ogNdyDEGOvL2bph0wCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3192.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The 4* listed Victorian boutique bed and breakfast is just <i>feet</i> away from the beach, a few miles from Conwy with it's picturesque town within the castle grounds, and about 30 minutes from the Zip World destinations.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2SvooNIdJ-M/WN7jWdOweOI/AAAAAAAAG6E/KTq2luyqv98d5ZhspAYa-1NpAY3CRrOpQCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_1.jpg" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The hotel provided us with complimentary wifi, and all of the charging ports we needed for our camera equipment and laptop - <i>on every bloggers' checklist!</i> We stayed in the deluxe sea view room and enjoyed an indulging bath which was completed by the fluffy bathrobes provided.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoDgIFE_BEc/WN7l_Xc3kfI/AAAAAAAAG6k/YeDMmCBVRRAMst9G3RgPcmMCAoj9KocvQCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_3.jpg" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Breakfast was a continental buffet with the option of a cooked breakfast. I had a full English <i>(or should I say Welsh?!)</i> breakfast, with the exception of the black pudding. It was presented beautifully, fitting in with the design of the hotel.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o21puzKuqAM/WN7mJo9MMCI/AAAAAAAAG6o/xQqPMPjgY5w-Hhr_t-v6sw9BDnGNB6P0gCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o21puzKuqAM/WN7mJo9MMCI/AAAAAAAAG6o/xQqPMPjgY5w-Hhr_t-v6sw9BDnGNB6P0gCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3180.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/LlandudnoBay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Llandudno Bay Hotel on Twitter</a> / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/llandudnobayhotel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Great Orme Tramway</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dayOVogFAvo/WN7mj7RGQ_I/AAAAAAAAG6s/WzjVMKNJAN8BULov8ItRFaNL8ZNm4UNWACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-1010260.jpg" /> <span style="text-align: left;">The </span><a href="http://www.greatormetramway.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Llandudno tram</a><span style="text-align: left;"> was created in 1898 as a means to get around, but these days it gives you the opportunity to experience better views of the town, incredible views across the sea at the top, and to give you a little insight into the history of Llandudno. The tram runs 7 days a week and you can ride it for £7 </span><i style="text-align: left;">(adult return)</i><span style="text-align: left;"> / £5 </span><i style="text-align: left;">(child return)</i><span style="text-align: left;">. At the top station (The Summit) there's a cafe, a shop, a golf course and even a children's play area. If you're lucky with the weather then I'd highly recommend this!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hE9Wl1DZnpI/WN7nY0MJ09I/AAAAAAAAG64/_hI0pmtZgtoBULjLYtwjnzj7dBXeEGgBwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_4.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Conwy & The Castle</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RITy1BQ0aBc/WN7o_ki1AzI/AAAAAAAAG7M/FoClHJOxY9YbOELe1cRy_BJ7rCHjlN-3QCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-1010150.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Conwy Castle is a breathtaking castle only a few miles from Llandudno, it's impossible to miss as you make your way into Conwy - mainly because the town is situation <i>within</i> the castle walls, but also because it stands proud looking out over the water... It also has a working railway line running through!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5uc0Dht2Yc/WN7pErkD-mI/AAAAAAAAG7Q/f8alxiiv_JArALk_wZ9Og-n3qjUQ5pLfQCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_5.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The castle is a real treasure and a lot of fun to explore, once you've had a look round then make sure you visit the town itself as it's home to the smallest house in Great Britain! We grabbed a bite to eat at L's and an ice cream on the seafront! <i>Perfect!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1BYaAYBbPg/WN7pxScHjUI/AAAAAAAAG7Y/Y6fz81QLVxYyY2gxSpVA4kPqXmK1o7VUACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_6.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2017/04/experiencing-zip-world-in-north-wales.html" target="_blank">Zip World</a></h4>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6C_Mfpxh2M/WN7qp0qsFyI/AAAAAAAAG7k/OCIk3Kw5OW0pm-zkawYTGxLm4wpwM9EuACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_Trip-3143.jpg" /></div>
While Llandudno could easily keep you busy for a few days, if you're an adrenalin junkie then <a href="https://www.zipworld.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zip World</a> will be right up your street and it's not too far from this delightful Welsh town. With 3 locations it has all sorts of activities for the entire family. <i>Full blog to follow!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hqx25PKz_O0/WN7rPx1pE6I/AAAAAAAAG7s/dcXFDrdkqo03QDtcmlp1K6SE-sHUyTM-ACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NorthWales_2_7.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/zipworlduk">Zip World on Twitter</a> / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/zipworlduk/">Facebook</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We came back to Cardiff feeling like we'd seen North Wales in all of it's beauty - stunning beach views from the hotel and unforgettable sites from Zip World <i>(<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2017/04/experiencing-zip-world-in-north-wales.html" target="_blank">read my review of Zip World</a>)</i>. However, I am definitely eager to return again as I feel like North Wales has plenty more to offer!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pin on Pinterest:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="737" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_dJZ2ugbH8/WXnjyl3K9NI/AAAAAAAAHMU/px1iCvaPuBk6w6qZac040G65nwCDgWNMwCLcBGAs/s400/Llandudno_Review.jpg" width="260" /></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />My stay was complimentary, but my opinions are my own.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All photos taken on my</i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01LXKRF7V/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B01LXKRF7V&linkCode=as2&tag=missnicklin-21&linkId=c02cf52d9f3dea99fe469a9bd8fb330f" target="_blank">Panasonic DMC-G80MEB-K</a>*<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=missnicklin-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B01LXKRF7V" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></i></span><i> and Canon 650D</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: times; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="font-size: medium; font-style: normal; text-align: center;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="font-size: medium; font-style: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Explore more of my <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Adventures" target="_blank">adventure blogs</a>!</span></div>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-style: normal; margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
<div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Affiliate links</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-24338192319983781682017-02-02T08:00:00.000+00:002017-05-23T13:37:20.418+01:00New Menus & Restaurants in Cardiff<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psAJKBk20XI/WItAGMhTvNI/AAAAAAAAGs8/xoXFDRJne7I1hQzKOL6dzSUt1sd4VoVZQCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NineYards%2B%25281%2Bof%2B5%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>January is always a bit of a strange month, it's the make or break month of new years resolutions and so being a food blogger that's a little tricky! However, I'm not one to turn down a sample of a new dish in the name of fitting into a smaller pair of jeans, so here's some of the places I've tried this month that you should look into! <i>(It does contain some healthy options!) header photo is of Nine Yards.</i><br />
<i></i></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Nine Yards</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-axyjQBlQYnc/WItEcyUGLaI/AAAAAAAAGtY/7y-yh_P7b_IJOrfmfCnorLt6_kW0kowqQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0144.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.explorewithed.co.uk/" target="_blank">Explore with Ed</a> - Panna Cotta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Nine Yards is an Italian patisserie which opened on St Mary's street last year. As well as delightful baked goods, it's become well known for it's selection of prosecco and slushy proseccos! This month I was invited to taste their new menu with some other food bloggers! My top choices were the creamly garlic mushrooms, the gorgonzola garlic honey and the white chocolate panna cotta for dessert. They currently have a Valentine's offer on which it's perfect for treating a loved one if you need some ideas. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zNuJIcw9o4U/WItHVlB3o9I/AAAAAAAAGto/twXk6UozDhwpMuEzTkqDf_UckLsE3uaFgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_NineYards.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Benugo</h4>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1Blv-xPVWg/WItBv5w2OuI/AAAAAAAAGtI/EqMBw7fIY5gGbruOoLYiftFEjTK6pcPegCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_Benugo%2B%252812%2Bof%2B12%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div>
Benugo is the cafe located within John Lewis in St Davids shopping centre. As well as loose tea, cakes and scones, this cafe has introduced some healthy and fresh salads and sandwiches to get you through a busy day of shopping. My personal favs are the pesto pasta and the roast oregano chicken & antipasti baguette. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oFCnxKmPnd4/WItHbXJGIMI/AAAAAAAAGts/52Cxox7kGBMLsTY8nWqkTz76DI0_a2MSgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_JohnLewis.jpg" /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Kong</h4>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dxsoDbH8YU/WI8BDWyAhyI/AAAAAAAAGwM/-hw54jcSF_kn1Knr_8Lb7aGZQeC_95OOQCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_Kong%2B%252811%2Bof%2B14%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese Theory Burger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kong is fairly new to Cardiff <i>(officially opened in December)</i> but I've only just got round to trying it thanks to the wonderful little app that's called Wriggle<i> (if you haven't downloaded it then you should!) </i>This gaming bar not only offers arcade games and table football, but it also has a menu to keep you well fed as you play! I had The Sheriff <i>(a meaty beef patty with crispy onion rings and BBQ sauce)</i> it was incredible, the sauce was delicious and I was left feeling <i>oh</i> so full! We did still try the dessert though<i> (for blogs sake...)</i> and that was good too, I personally preferred the cheesecake to the rich Oreo & peanut butter torte but both were very nice!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g716htMB2Bw/WI8B4CqpzmI/AAAAAAAAGwU/LK5XruN_LkoQ1XGgImLAnBIcKi7OevWjACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_Kong.jpg" /></div>
</div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Tempus at Tides</h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n4bN6VWlh_4/WItEB_0ztKI/AAAAAAAAGtU/kvg_XYFPM8csAEbJF_KsOhUoFxBXgjDNgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_TempusatTides%2B%252831%2Bof%2B39%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sticky Toffee Pudding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The final restaurant that I've been lucky enough to try this month is Tempus at Tides, Cardiff Bay. This fine-dining restaurant is located within the 5 star St David's hotel, overlooking the water. Click if you would like to read my full <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2017/01/tempus-at-tides-restaurant-review.html" target="_blank">review of Tempus at Tides</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jGMZ1fu41Hc/WItHiNOBTWI/AAAAAAAAGtw/dGs4_B75_GA2WbgTXSdsQGzVZK_lpP2bwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_TempusatTides_2_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jGMZ1fu41Hc/WItHiNOBTWI/AAAAAAAAGtw/dGs4_B75_GA2WbgTXSdsQGzVZK_lpP2bwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_TempusatTides_2_1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you have a new menu or restaurant in South Wales that you would like me to feature then don't hesitate to drop me an email; <a href="mailto:missnicklinblog@gmail.com">missnicklinblog@gmail.com</a></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Restaurant%20Reviews" target="_blank">review blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com1Cardiff, UK51.481581000000013 -3.179089999999973851.323433500000014 -3.5018134999999737 51.639728500000011 -2.8563664999999738tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-42212399558573285022017-01-30T09:11:00.001+00:002017-09-17T22:19:40.726+01:00Lumix GH5 Overview (6K Photo & Video)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NleccvWAGD8/WIugd8z9STI/AAAAAAAAGuY/rW51wiUs-DYSCl7dYgGgDYa2KWXrBUmvgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25282%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
As I work for Panasonic as a brand ambassador I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pre-production version of the brand new <a href="http://amzn.to/2f436ks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lumix GH5</a>*! If you're not into cameras then in simple terms it means their newest and most advanced camera to date with 6K facilities and some other mind-blowing stuff....<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
6K Photo</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eGNPJZZ9dBI/WIugi9JDTLI/AAAAAAAAGuc/gFeEJ2POCDQwmOhSxGo_27nXRyKR1ElSwCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%252810%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
The 6K photo means you can film in 6K and ultimately freeze time with it's 30fps feature to find that perfect photo - perhaps kids playing in the garden, a loved pet chasing a ball, or even a plane flying above you. While Panasonic have previously had the 4K photo feature in some of their other cameras<i> (popular ones include the TZ80, GX80, G7, G80 and GX8) </i>6K photo allows you to take 18mp stills from the video <i>(rather than 8mp stills from 4K). </i>4K Photo is still available though, and it will capture in 60fps.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Post Focus </h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XzKMPEIW2xw/WIuhHlFa36I/AAAAAAAAGuk/iajDyJG5sbQTxQdlWdWxVKCytS8HgxLCgCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25284%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
This, again, was introduced in some of their previous models, but the GH5 has over 200 focus points, which means you can essentially have 200 photos from one photo. You have to see it to believe it so if you have a Jessops/John Lewis near you then go in and ask for a demo. Click to view the <a href="http://www.jessops.com/online.store/categories/current%20offers/panasonic%20lumix%20dmc-gh5/show.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jessops demo dates</a>.<br />
<h4>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
5-Axis Dual Image Stabilisation </div>
</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yTC5bb9UDto/WIugs2co54I/AAAAAAAAGug/ekRzln531aEKGAPsOqaO6nAJ1FLV-Ip7gCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25285%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
Panasonic pride themselves on their stabilisation within their cameras and lenses, but they have really pushed the boat out with the GH5 and added a 5 stop compensation effect which is maintained up to 280mm. This means that doing steady camera work has never been easier if you don't have a stupidly expensive rig to hand.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
2 SD Card Slots</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0mGwurYX3U/WIuqv9J7uhI/AAAAAAAAGvc/uN7W--jSQostqVY-Me2lmhUkZ-QxLMP9QCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5_1%2B%25281%2Bof%2B1%2529.jpg" /></div>
When filming in 6K <i>(or even 4K)</i> any memory card would get full quick, no matter what size, that's why Panasonic introduced the 2 SD card slots in the GH5. These can be used in a few different ways; one as a backup which writes an exact copy of the first card, two as an overrun for when your first card gets full so it automatically saves to the new one, or three for saving videos and photos on different cards - making it easier to manage your work and separate video and photography edits.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
10-bit 4:2:2 Output & Internal Recording</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6pPHe14mu7o/WIumSvt-z1I/AAAAAAAAGu8/wDHM5BLMBPwKIFmwA2w9RF17Ds5AqsG7wCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25287%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
The older model of this camera (GH4) films in 8-bit, which means it captures 256 shades of every colour. 10-bit means that it gets 1024 shades of every colour, resulting in over 1,000,000,000 colour combinations. This is particularly useful if you are a colour grader or do a lot of green screen work as it means you have a lot more control over your colour. Most DSLRs capture 4:2:0, but 4:2:2 means it captures twice as much colour data, again this is useful if you are a professional videographer doing lots of colour manipulations in edit. If you're still trying to get your head around 10-bit 4:2:2 then visit <a href="http://www.diyphotography.net/10bit-422-video-actually-means/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Aldreds write up</a>.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
20.3mp Photography and Advanced Auto Focus</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hFl4VM2CxdM/WIumYWmFa2I/AAAAAAAAGvA/-Yv07m_cyUg10anxgVV_yVcdOXnzgTdywCLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25288%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
The pixel count has increased by a whopping 25% from their GH4 (16.05mp - 20.3mp) and having the 6K photo options means you still capture 18mp images from the video. The DFD has also increased meaning that the auto focus now operates at 0.05 second.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Access & Share Your Images Instantly</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F1e6Q9KikQY/WIuocjXF_GI/AAAAAAAAGvQ/N4CLWMnECjIhWQOBKinPddqJ20ekPm69ACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_GH5%2B%25281%2Bof%2B11%2529.jpg" /></div>
With the improved wifi and bluetooth settings on the GH5 you can instantly access and download JPEGs from your camera straight to your smart phone. Fear not if you only shoot in RAW as you can use the inbuilt RAW editing mode within your camera to edit and save as a JPEG and then send to your phone. You can also control your camera from your phone <i>(similar to the GoPro app)</i><br />
<br />
The list of new features goes on, but this is just an overview. If you would like to find out more about the GH5 visit <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/global/consumer/lumix/lumix-gh5.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panasonic's website</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The camera in the photos is a pre-production version.</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Return to my <a href="http://missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank">home page</a></span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*The Amazon links are affiliate links</span></i></div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032039937216094595.post-88689832155211182662017-01-27T14:24:00.001+00:002020-04-20T10:52:37.561+01:00Luxury Bathroom Mood Board<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K8ao8wLUyBg/WIsw-qixJuI/AAAAAAAAGso/-1ueBlLVBWsxZDUNnsalcFfljcjwc8HkACLcB/s1600/MissNicklin_LuxuryBathroom4%2B%25281%2Bof%2B1%2529.jpg" /></div>
In 2016 I started writing about home improvements as I had such a great response to my first post on home renovations. In this post I've put together some inspiration to turn your drab bathroom into a room of luxury, read on for my suggestions...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j7Pfw18SpxM/WIsc3_rTj5I/AAAAAAAAGrg/tOQwH7uAEhkNtm67ojUOk2VwZTgT5hy1ACLcB/s1600/Luxury_Bathroom_MissNicklin.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1) <a href="https://www.bathingsolutions.co.uk/wet-rooms/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walk-in shower</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2) <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/bathroom-remodel/marble-countertops" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marble top surfaces</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3) <a href="https://www.amara.com/products/super-soft-cotton-bath-mat-ivory" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Soft cotton bath mat</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4) <a href="https://www.bathingsolutions.co.uk/wet-rooms/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rain shower head</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5) <a href="http://soak.com/600x900mm-galactic-designer-illuminated-led-mirror--switch-control_p31204655.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Galactic designer illuminated LED mirror</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6) <a href="https://www.bathingsolutions.co.uk/wet-rooms/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Silver shower controls</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This style is based around a wet room which will allow you to have a gorgeous walk in shower with a rain shower head and slip resistant floor. The little extras will complete your bathroom, such as the stunning lighted mirror, marble top, and silver shower taps. Click to discover about <a href="https://www.bathingsolutions.co.uk/wet-rooms/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wet room costs</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Like my bathroom DIY posts? <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2016/12/creating-cosy-bathroom.html" target="_blank">Find out how to make a cosy bathroom</a>. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is a collaboration with Bathing Solutions</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7nPFPJ6mEZM/WFV4xEii2eI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/_q4TudxK6jw8O2HxYtO7x7236bW3vzQdwCLcB/s320/MissNicklin2017_Cropped.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">View more <a href="http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/search/label/Home%20Improvements" target="_blank">home improvement blogs</a>!</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissNicklin/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.twitter.com/MissNicklin" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MissNicklinBlog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/miss-nicklin-13592193?widget-ref=http://www.missnicklin.co.uk/2015/03/lola-and-me-photoshoot.html" target="_blank">Bloglovin</a></div>
</div>
Hannah Nicklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10650583693396451557noreply@blogger.com5