LIFESTYLE

10 BEST PIECES OF LIFE ADVICE FOR YOUR TWENTIES.

Monday, 26 August 2024

A couple of years ago I wrote a blog post titled '10 life lessons I've learnt in my 20s so far' and now that I've turned 30 I thought I'd give an updated take on it seeing as I've now officially, completed my 20s! A lot of people dread turning 30, but I've found myself excited for the next chapter of my life and I also feel like I've achieved a lot this last decade and have really enjoyed myself (despite a few silly decisions and the year we lost to Covid). So here are the 10 best pieces of life advice for your twenties. 



1. Say yes to things. 


In one of my previous posts, I wrote all about learning when to say no but saying yes to things is also good! Firstly, as you get older we all get more busy and inevitably once we start having families we see our friends less. So say yes to birthday parties, after work drinks with your new colleagues or trying out a new restaurant with your friend. Also naturally, if you're someone who also says no to plans, the harsh reality is a lot of people will stop asking you. So try and put in the effort on your side (as long as it's reciprocated).


2. Always have some money to fall back on. 


For many of us, at one point in our lives we have lived or are living at home with our parents whilst also having a full-time job. Which means really there is no reason why you can't save a % of your salary every month. Life is full of unexpected surprises, and having a savings account will save you a lot of stress when those moments come. I recommend looking into what type of savings accounts you can get with your bank, as if you get interest that will motivate you to save even more!


3. Audit your life and friendships now and again. 


When you're young it's very easy to get swept up in things when they are new or exciting. Which is why it's important to take a step back, and evaluate if what you're doing with your life and who you've spending your time with is truly fulfilling. Are you filling your spare time with things other than drinking and scrolling on TikTok? Are you spending time with people who bring out the best in you and support you and want to see you succeed? Are you investing in your future? These are all things you should be asking yourself, and if the answer is no then it's time to make a few changes. 

4. It's ok to change your mind about what you want to do with your life.  


Before I went to university, I considered doing forensic science, psychology, teaching, broadcast and journalism before I eventually decided on a degree in Events Management. Fast forward 8 years later and I'm working as a Project Manager in a gaming company. Is it what I thought I'd be doing when I finished? No, but nevertheless I'm happy with my job and where my career is going. Do I regret what I studied? No, because I enjoyed university and even though my career isn't in events, I throw some great parties. So basically, it's ok to change your path in life or do a complete 180. These are usually the years when you can afford to change your mind! 

5. Stop thinking you're never going to find anyone. 


We've all been there, and many of us have stayed in unfulfilling or toxic relationships because we think 'there's no one else left' or 'I won't meet anyone like them'. It's better to leave something bad in your twenties and spend a few months or years alone, than realise 20 years later when you have a lot more to lose.

6. Look after yourself. 


If you're someone who's not concerned with how you look, then you can skip on to the next point. For many of us, we want to look our best and for this there are 5 things I'd live by. 

1. You've heard it 1000 times, but drink your water. 
2. SPF 50 every day, even when you don't think the sun is shining. Every summer my face is 5 shades lighter than my body but a bit of concealer or tinted cream will fix that! You'll be thankful for it when you're 40. 
3. Invest in good skincare. It doesn't have to be a 5 step process. My aesthetician advised that a good cleanser, a targeted serum and a good SPF moisturizer is all you need for your day to day.  
4. Move! Whether you're into weight-lifting, running or yoga. Try and do something 3 times a week. 
5. Don't obsess over things. We all have insecurities and if you've been hung-up about something for years, it's your choice if you want to get any procedures done which will make you more confident. On the flip side, if you just want to get your lips done because 'all my friends have got it done' then you can probably hold off on that. 

7. Think of how you'd like to be remembered.


We all have our own character traits and flaws, but being a good person costs you nothing. Everyday we are presented with situations and how we react to them defines who we are as a person. If there's a new person joining your company, introduce yourself. Hold the door for people coming in behind you. Don't base your opinions on people based off what other people have said. Smile at the person with you in the lift. The scenarios are endless. 

Also, try and be on time when you've made plans with someone. It's irritating when someone is constantly late to things, because why are you ok with wasting people's time and having them wait for you? 

8. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. 


I remember when I first started Tea With Gi 10 years ago, I didn't want people from back home to find my blog because I thought 'people are going to judge what I write' and I'm sure some people do! If I would have let that stop me, I would have never got the chance to travel to India with 29 other bloggers, or travelled the East Coast of Australia with Greyhound or eaten in lots of delicious restaurants for 'free'! If you're interested in fitness and want to start a page to inspire others - do it! If you like sharing your recipes online - do it! Don't let the fear of what other people think stop you from opening new doors. 

9. Don't compare your journey to others.


When you get to my age, everyone around you seems to be getting engaged, buying houses or having babies. Which is perfectly normal and to be expected! I've been in a 2 year relationship now and I know my time will come, as I tell my boyfriend 'there's still a few trips to be had!' before we start a family. If you're reaching 30 and you're still single, don't worry. Enjoy your time because eventually you will meet someone and get all that if that's what you want. I know people who met their partner at 35 and 2 years later got married and started a family and seem perfectly content. The same goes for jobs, you may not be happy with your role or salary now but everything could change in a year. 


10. Stop thinking 'you have time'


When I was 22, my younger cousin passed away. I remember being in my last year of university and finding it really hard but what I learnt was to stop putting things off and assuming that I had all the time in the world to do everything I wanted to do. The reality is that life is a gift. As important as it is to save money for the big 'important' things in life, it is also important to go and see the world, make memories with your friends and family and fall in love even though you might get hurt. 


I'll end this post in a similar way to my last one, remember that you're never going to look back on your twenties and think "I wish I would have had less fun" So make good choices, take risks, meet new people and don't stress about the small things! 

G





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MY HEALTHY HABITS AND PERSONAL GOALS FOR THE REST OF 2023.

Thursday, 19 October 2023

It's been a while since I've written a lifestyle post on here, so I'm partly doing this for my blog and also for a bit of motivation and accountability for myself! I feel like this summer I've sort of 'let myself go' in terms of fitness and sticking to my routine but I've also had a fun few months which I don't regret. Here are some healthy habits and life goals I want to achieve by the end of the year!



1. Get some ab definition back


This might sound superficial, but my stomach area has always been a part of my body that I was able to maintain quite toned even when I wasn't as happy with other parts of my body. Seeing that change lately is what's made me think I need to get myself back on track to what is my usual comfortable weight. In order to reach this I know I need to try and get a decent amount of protein each day, lift my weights and minimise foods that I know will bloat me. 


2. Invest in myself


This is not only for the rest of the year, but something I also want to carry on to 2024. I've always thought of things like massages and facials as luxuries that I only get when I feel like 'treating myself' but in fact, they contribute to our overall well-being. Before the end of the year I want to make a point to get a skin consultation and then get regular facials depending on what my skin needs. 

I'd also like to try and have a massage every 2-3 months, whether that's just for stress relief or muscle tightness so I can perform better at the gym and during my day to day tasks. If you're based in London or near-by, then you can pop into Asiatic Thai Massage and get 15% off your massage using the code 'TEAWITHGI'. They specialise in thai massages which for me, are a balance of both relaxation and knot removing! They offer full body massages, thai yoga massages and also offer massages for women who are currently pregnant. Prices start at £45. 



3. Keep up with my vitamins 


One vitamin that I've managed to take daily for the year is my vitamin C, because it tastes like a sweet! It might be a coincidence but I haven't had a cold all year. I did get my bloods taken out before the summer and was told I was lacking in vitamin D. Admittedly, I wasn't taking it very religiously until a month ago and I've noticed improvements in my mood and overall clarity. So this is something I definitely want to try and keep up. 

4. Reach 7,000 followers on Instagram 


Who thought I would have been trying to reach a lower goal than 2022? At the start of the year I had a good few 100 followers over the 7k mark, but alas here we are. I've found Instagram an increasingly hard platform to grow my content on lately and it can be discouraging sometimes. That being said, I have had restaurants in Gibraltar reach out to me and say they've received a lot of customers thanks to my posts on 'Where to find the best Sunday Roasts in Gibraltar' and 'Best cocktails in Gibraltar' so that's always good to hear!

5. Write 5,000 more words of my book


So back in 2019, I started writing a book and I haven't touched it since 2021. I had a sudden burst of motivation last week that I wanted to continue writing it and try and self-publish it before my 30th birthday next year. Watch this space to see how it goes! 

6. Work with a brand or restaurant that I love


Over the years I've been lucky to have some incredible opportunities thanks to my blog. Before the end of 2023, I'd like to collaborative with a brand or restaurant that I'm a big fan of. I do have a few interesting things in the pipeline with some Gibraltar based companies that I'm excited for!

G








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THE BEST PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK IN GIBRALTAR, ACCORDING TO LOCALS.

Wednesday, 1 March 2023

 With Gibraltar being such a small place, one of the most common ways to spend your weekends here is eating out and going for drinks. Whenever I’m travelling to a new city, I find myself searching across social media channels for the best places to eat. Which is why I wanted to find out what restaurants the people in Gibraltar would rate the best, to help tourists but also for locals to discover some new places. Over 400 people took part in this survey, and these were the results! 




For Breakfast


1. My Wines

Coming in first place for breakfast is My Wines. This was actually my vote too as I love the variety. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or savoury, or having breakfast with your family there’s something for everyone. I recommend the pancakes, bacon eggs benedict or a simple mollete with tomato. If you visit around autumn/winter, they also have pumpkin spiced lattes on the menu. I need to go for breakfast soon to try their latest edition to the menu, the ‘breakfast hunger killer’. This combines their famous lemon chicken fingers in a warm mollete with melted cheese. 





2. Hustle n’ flow


In second place we have Hustle n’ Flow, which is a very convenient 2 minute walk from my house. This place combines nutritious food with an instagram worthy aesthetic. Here you can find a variety of smoothies, acai bowls, classic toasts and a few lunch options such as wraps and burgers. My recommendations here would have to be the french toast , the blue eyed girl bowl and the ‘honey we’re all nuts!’ toast. Whilst you’re here, finish off with one of their super shot elixirs! 





3. Aquaterra 

In third place we have Aquaterra, which hadn’t been on my radar until this. This place is usually known for their meats and cool cocktails, but they also have a very cheap and cheerful breakfast menu. It also looks like it’s packed every Saturday morning so you’re best off booking a table in advance! I had their Andaluz breakfast which included bread with tomato and olive oil, topped with jamon serrano. You also get a tea or coffee included for a total of £3.90! 





For Tapas

1. La Tapilla Sixtina

In first place for tapas we have La Tapilla Sixtina, located in Chatham Counterguard. This is probably the closest you’ll get in Gibraltar to a typical Spanish tapas menu, and the prices are reasonable. Here you’ll find a variety of montaditos, tostadas, croquettes, meats and more. My staples when eating here are the huevos rotos, the pork with truffle oil, the carrillada (pork cheek) stew, and the prawns pil pil. To wash it all down, have a tinto de verano with liquor 43!





2. Vault 13


In second place, we have Vault 13, an asian-mediterranean fusion tapas restaurant. I’ve never had a bad meal here, and I’ve pretty much tried 90% of the menu. My favourites are the asian prawns, the octopus with potatoes, the pork belly, the mini chicken brioche sliders and all of the bao buns!





3. My Wines


Making another appearance on the list, in third place for tapas is My Wines. I always like coming here in a big group because there are a lot of things on the menu that I enjoy. I recommend booking a table on their terrace in the warmer months too. My recommendations here are the goat’s cheese salad, the jalapeno wontons, lemon chicken fingers, puchero croquettes, and the duck nachos (a lot of my friends are 50/50 on these nachos, but I love the oriental spin on them!) My favourite wine here is Anahi, if you’re looking for something semi-sweet to pair your food with. 





For a date night


 1. Little Bay 

In first place for date night or a meal out, is the Indian restaurant Little Bay. This place is always full so expect to wait a while for your food, but it is delicious. The go to order for my boyfriend and I when we go is the chilli cheese naan, the pomegranate aloo tikki chana masala, the anardana jhinga which is a prawn dish, and the chicken murgh makhani. For dessert, the pistachio kulfi is lovely. I also recommend checking out their signature cocktail menu!  





2. 4 Stagioni 


This is my favourite Italian restaurant in Gibraltar, mostly because of their very cheesy garlic bread calzone and the pumpkin ravioli. 4 Stagioni is located a bit further away from town but the fact you have to make more of an effort to get there almost makes it feel like an even better spot for a special occasion. If you’re more into pizza than pasta, then I recommend the tropical pizza which comes with ham, pineapple and mango chutney! Our favourite wine to have here is Satinela. 





3. Vault 13 


Also making a second appearance is Vault 13, so I thought I’d save some of my other favourite menu items for this section of the article. The whipped feta with honey, the hummus and the beetroot & goat’s cheese mousse are all great plates to start with! 






For Cocktails
 

If after you’ve checked out one of these restaurants you fancy going for a few drinks, then these are the best cocktail spots according to locals. In first place we have Las Iguanas, which probably has one of the largest cocktail menus in Gibraltar. My go to here is the Pornstar Martini or the Guava Colada. In second place is Little Bay, and my favourites here are the Masala Mule and the Ancient Routes. In third place we have Bruno’s, which is famously known for their 24 hours 241 cocktail special. I usually have a Singapore Sling or a Pornstar Martini here, or an Aperol Spritz when the sun is out!


Iguanas 241 Guava Colada's

The Yard came in 4th for their cocktails, but if you're looking for the biggest variety of gin in Gibraltar then this is the place to be!



Want to see more of what these places have to offer? Check out my reels for what we ordered on Instagram!


G







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HARNESSING WELLNESS AND COMFORT: OPTIMISING YOUR AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP'S OUTDOOR UNIT SIZE.

Sunday, 1 January 2023

The pursuit of comfort in our homes often aligns seamlessly with our quest for overall wellness. Amid scorching summers or icy winters, an air to air heat pump promises the solace of a comfortable indoor climate. Yet, just like a wellness routine, you may not reap the full benefits if it isn't tailored to your needs.


Why Wellness and Size Are Interlinked


Consider this: adopting a one-size-fits-all wellness regimen is akin to wearing shoes that are either too snug or too roomy. They're not suited to you, and their effectiveness diminishes. Your air source heat pump's outdoor unit abides by the same principle.

Efficiency for Well-being: An appropriately sized unit works harmoniously with your home, ensuring energy isn't squandered. Just as a tailored wellness regimen brings optimal health benefits, the right-sized unit brings energy efficiency.

Inner Peace and Comfort: The alignment between the outdoor unit's size and your home's requirements guarantees a consistent indoor climate. This parallels how a balanced wellness regimen can bring inner tranquillity.

Sustainable Energy Consumption: When aligned perfectly, your pump doesn't exert excessive energy, translating to reduced utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

Durability Equals Consistency: As consistent, balanced wellness practices bolster long-term health, an optimally sized unit endures longer, demanding fewer replacements.

Crafting Your Comfortable Wellness Space


To attain true indoor comfort and, by extension, a sense of wellness, understanding what influences the sizing of your heat pump's outdoor unit is pivotal.

Space Dynamics: Just as different body types require varied wellness strategies, homes of diverse sizes need outdoor units of varying capacities.

Local Weather Patterns: Depending on whether you live in a frosty tundra or a tropical paradise, your unit's size will vary to meet your home's heating or cooling necessities.

Home's Insulation: A well-insulated home, akin to a body in good health, operates more efficiently and might require a different-sized unit than a less insulated home.

Windows and Exits: The type and number of windows and doors affect how your home retains or loses heat, influencing the unit size.

Efficient Distribution: Ensure your ductwork, if present, aligns with your outdoor unit's size, much like ensuring all aspects of a wellness routine are synchronized for overall health.

Professional Wellness and Comfort Consultation


Achieving true indoor wellness requires expertise. Equipped with the tools and knowledge, HVAC professionals conduct comprehensive assessments like the Manual J load calculation to determine the ideal unit size tailored to your home's unique characteristics.

Your air source heat pump's outdoor unit is the heart of your home's climate control system, and its correct sizing is synonymous with achieving a holistic sense of wellness. As we strive for mental and physical balance, our living spaces, too, should reflect that equilibrium. Thus,
investing in the correct unit size ensures your sanctuary remains a beacon of comfort and wellness throughout the seasons.

Embrace the harmony of a tailored approach, and let your home be a reflection of your wellness
journey.
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