DEALING WITH STRESS IN THE MODERN WORLD OF ALWAYS BEING 'BUSY'.

Tuesday, 6 April 2021

 [This is a collaborative post but all words and opinions are my own]


Is it just me, or does everyone love to come across as being stressed and busy all the time? I feel like all these Netflix shows we've seen growing up have made us aspire to always have a coffee in hand and a full social calendar, but the truth of the matter is that it gets tiring.  I love doing social things and I don't think I can spend more than a day just sat on the sofa all day watching TV, but I also feel the strain it has on me when I'm jumping from thing to thing and not giving myself any time to just relax. With it being stress awareness month, I wanted to touch upon what effects stress actually has on us, and the best ways to deal with it. 


tea with gi stress


So why is being stressed a bad thing?

A lot of people (me included) actually thrive off being stressed. I remember I'd do by best work at uni when I gave myself a week to do an assignment, because I knew if I didn't stick to my deadlines then I wouldn't get it done, meaning there was less time for procrastination and I just had to focus. I also hate having 'little pockets of time' between activities, so I always try and plan things back to back. Which works for a while but then it just leaves you feeling burnt out, unmotivated and just plain tired. 

Aside from the toll it takes on your body, not managing your stress whether that's at work or in your personal life can lead to more psychological affects like anxiety and depression. It can also keep you up at night and you might make more irrational decisions when you're not thinking clearly.


So how should we deal with stress?

 If you do find that the stress in your life is taking a toll on your mental health then speaking to your doctor might be beneficial, but here are some other steps you could take to prevent and control it. 


Write out everything that needs to be done


If you know you've got a lot on your plate during the week, write down everything that's stressing you out and what the solution for each task is. It's also important to think realistically how long each task is going to take and usually, if you get the thing that scares you most out of the way first, you won't be left with that feeling of dread the whole week. Things are a lot more manageable when you see them on a list in front of you, and we all know how good it feels when you get to tick things off a list!

Prioritise 'you time'

Whether that means going to the gym, painting, writing or whatever hobby you enjoy. Make sure you make time for yourself to do the things that you enjoy. A lot of people struggle to find that 'work/life' balance but it's important to make it a priority to block out time for yourself. I know a lot of people who 'work through lunch' at their own expense, but at the end of the day that is your time. So even if it means going out for a walk to get some fresh air, make sure you use it. 

Try natural remedies like CBD oil

For me when I'm feeling stressed or anxious about something, I usually find myself tossing and turning in bed until 3am. Which isn't ideal when you have an 8am start the next day! For me CBD oil has been great before bed as it helps calm me and fall asleep easier. Our Remedy specialises in CBD oil for women. Their formula contains essential oils such as clary sage and geranium, which is known to have their benefits for period pains and easing anxiety. They also infuse their CBD with different essential oils like peppermint and orange so it can be a great addition to your bedtime hot drink!

our remedy
Photo Credit

Disconnect

This is something that is often easier said than done, I know when I'm anxious or stressed about something coming up I probably think about it every day until the day comes. It's important to get in the mindset of 'not worrying about something that hasn't happened yet' and just trying to be present for everything else. I do that by either reading a good book (The Midnight Library currently), or going to yoga classes. Meditation and breathing techniques is something that works for a lot of people, it's just something I personally haven't got round to trying yet.

One thing to take away from this post, is to listen to your body. Remember it's ok to take breaks, and to ask for help. A lot more people are in the same boat than you think!

G




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MY HOUSE BUYING AND MONEY SAVING TIPS.

Tuesday, 9 March 2021

 [This is a collaborative post but all words and opinions are my own]


The day has finally come where I'm talking about buying a houses and mortgages on my blog - how time flies! It's crazy to me that we never got taught anything at school about 'real life' situations about how mortgages work, stamp duty and all that other adulting stuff. Luckily, both my mum and step-dad work in a bank so they have constantly been giving me the 411, and how important it is to start saving as soon as you can. Whether you're single or have a partner to purchase a house with, the important thing is to assess your own situation and what is financially going to work for you in the long-run. I am currently in the process of *hopefully* purchasing a house, and these are some of my tips:


tea with gi house buying


1. Open a separate savings account. 

I now have two: one for travelling and fun stuff, and the other for all things house related. You'll need to consider that apart from paying a deposit, you'll also have to pay a lawyer for the conveyancing, stamp duty, and of course to furnish it! I have mine on Natwest, and they offer me 1.5% interest as long as my balance at the end of the month is £50 higher than it was the previous month. 


2. Find out how much you need for your deposit and what you can borrow. 

In most cases, the money you will have to put into buying a house is at least 10% of the full price of the house. So if you want to buy a house that's £200,000, you'll need to save at least £20,000. Most banks will offer you 4X your salary, and will look at your current spending habits before agreeing if they're going to lend you the money. 


3. Find the right estate agent. 

Buying a house can be stressful, so sometimes it's easier to let someone else do all the hard work for you. GrowProperty help you understand what you can afford, and will be with you for every step of the process. They can advise on how to negotiate and making the best offer, arranging all the legal work, and help with all the paperwork. 


4. Be realistic. 

If I could, I'd love to buy a 4 bedroom house with a pool and a garden. The fact that I'd be having to do that on 1 salary means that is highly unlikely unless I won the lottery this year. Being a first-time home buyer means that the house you purchase won't necessarily be the house you live in all your life. It is however a good way to get on the 'property ladder' and have a place that is yours. In time your situation may change and you may need to upgrade or down-size, which you can do when the time and need arises. 


5. Make an expenses plan. 

I love spreadsheets, and I make one every year showing what my 'fixed' spendings are each month and what I'm putting aside for adult things/travelling. It's a good way to visually see what you're left with at the end of the month, and what you can actually afford to save every month. I've also been using Revolut 'Vaults' a lot to have separate savings for individual trips, luxuries and birthday/Christmas presents! 


6. Choose what's right for you. 

Not everyone is going to have the same 'goals' or things to tick off in life. A lot of people are fine with renting, or don't want to have roots in just one city. The same way as others may prefer to have a smaller apartment but have more money to spend on experiences, and others have always envisioned owning their dream home by 30. It's always useful to hear advice and tips from other people who have done it, but in the end the decision is yours! 


I hope this post has been useful, and whatever stage you're at it's important to not stress or compare. We're all on individual journeys! 

G


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10 FUN AND CRAFTY IDEAS TO INCLUDE ON YOUR WEDDING DAY.

Thursday, 4 March 2021

 [This is a collaborative post but all words are my own.]


You're probably thinking, Giana why are you writing a wedding themed blog post when you're very much single? Even though that's the case, one of my best friends is getting married soon! So we've been busy talking everything wedding related (and the hen night of course). Having a degree in events management also means that I've always enjoyed thinking about 'out of the box' themes and creative ideas for celebrations. If you or somebody you know are tying the knot soon, here are some ideas to consider for the special day. 




1. Make your own wedding invitations.

If you want to make your invites feel a lot more personal, then why not try making DIY wedding invitations? This way you can bring them to life however you want, and if you're not exactly fond of your own handwriting, invite your bridesmaids over and have everyone do their part for creating the perfect invites! 


2. Invent some signature cocktails.

I'm sure by the end of the night, most guests will be ordering beers, G&Ts or vodka redbulls. To keep things interesting at the beginning of the reception, have some unique cocktails to choose from. You could have fun with this and have some 'inside joke' cocktail names. 

3. Put disposable cameras on each table. 

Even though most individuals will take loads of photos to remember the day on their phones, having pictures on disposable cameras means you'll have something to take away from the night, and you can add them to a wedding photo album the old fashioned way!


4. Hangover relief kits for the adults. 

Even though your grandmother might only have two glasses of champagne, I think most people would appreciate a bag of snacks and goodies at the end of the night! I'd include a little bottle of mouthwash, an eye mask, some electrolytes and a bag of crisps. 


5. Have a guest icebreaker question or 'dare'. 

Under each guests' place card, write a dare or question they must ask someone at the wedding during the reception. The great thing about this is that you'll be able to personalise each one to the person, which makes it a great way to try set up your single friends or at least get conversations flowing! 


6. Send a collaborative playlist for the guests. 

Want to make sure nobody complains about the music on the night? Set up a collaborative playlist on Spotify and share it with your guests to add songs. Before the wedding you can choose to make this private again and edit the playlist as you please, as WAP might not go down very well at 9pm with your family around!


7. Set up a karaoke area.

There's always going to be guests who will say they 'don't dance', so how about they sing instead? You can hire a karaoke machine and keep everyone pleased. I can already imagine everyone hogging the microphone to sing High School Musical. 


8. Have a sweet cart for the kids (and peckish adults). 

A fun idea would be to have a pick and mix cart for guests either in a corner or going around the tables during the reception. If you'd rather have a gin cart, I'm sure that would also go down a treat! 

9. Create a # for social media for the wedding. 

Since you'll be too busy having fun on your big day to see all the photos you've been tagged in on Instagram, the best way to have all the photos from your wedding in one place is to create an official hashtag! You can have signs around the reception reminding guests what it is, or making it something simple like #AandBsWedding


10. Theme your centrepieces. 

I always said I wanted to have Disney movie themed centrepieces, but now that I'm a bit older and my interest have slightly changed. I would love to theme each table on a different city me and my 'future partner' have been to or places of importance. It's your day, so have fun with it!


With a lot of weddings being postponed due to the global pandemic, it is exciting that things are slowly getting back to normal and we can start looking forward to things. I hope you find any of these ideas interesting and consider them on your wedding day!

G

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GUEST POST // THE BENEFITS OF TEACHING ABROAD

Monday, 1 March 2021

[This is a guest post, all content published on Tea With Gi is kept relevant to my audience and style.]

The great thing about being a teacher is that you can do it anywhere in the world. With so many organisations and British international schools across the globe looking to hire, it shouldn’t be too
difficult to find a teaching job overseas. While challenging, teaching abroad can be extremely
rewarding and enlightening. Read on for some of the benefits of teaching abroad.


Gain Professional Experience and Enrich Your CV


Teaching in a foreign country is a completely unique experience that will give you the chance to
work with different kinds of school communities who have their own approach to education. You
will need to adapt, which will make you a more flexible and accommodating person. You will build
relationships with new teaching staff and students, which will not only help you become a better
teacher yourself but will also allow you to grow as a person.

The experience will be a challenge like no other you will have to be committed, but this will be great
for our personal development. All of these skills and qualities will give your CV a well-deserved boost
that will help you progress in your career.


Learn About Other Cultures


Although you might miss your homeland from time to time, being immersed in a new culture is the best way to learn about it. Every day you will have exciting opportunities to try something new, whether it be tasting a new food, learning a new language, or celebrating a different tradition.

Meeting people with different cultural backgrounds will allow you to see the world from a new perspective and you will be able to share your knowledge with your friends and family from back
home.

Learning about a new culture may even help you appreciate your own that much more. You will be
able to teach your students about some of your own cultural traditions and how they differ and they
will be able to share their own thoughts and ideas.
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TAKING CARE OF YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH AT HOME.

Monday, 8 February 2021

 [This is a collaborative post but all words and opinions are my own.]


The last year has been a challenging time for many of us, and I really feel for those who are still in complete lockdown and who live on their own. A lot of people do tend to enjoy their own company, but we also know that human interaction and socialising is needed for our happiness and wellbeing. We know that we're all staying home to help beat this virus and save lives, but your mental wellbeing should be just as important as your physical. With that being said, I wanted to include a few ways to make sure that you're taking care of yourself during lockdown. 


tea with gi


1. Try and think of the positives in your life. 


We all know that the way you perceive a situation and how you think about it has an outcome on your moods and how you handle things. So instead of thinking, how horrible it is being home everyday or all the things you can't do, try and flip the situation. Instead think, I get to have all this extra quality time to myself or with my family, I have time to read more books or finish series, I'm saving money by staying home and not buying a Costa coffee every morning! 


2. Try and schedule social things with friends 1-2 a week as you would in 'real life'. 


I know the novelty of Zoom quizzes kind of wore off after the first lockdown, but my group still love it! If it's not your cup of tea then you can also virtually watch a movie with friends or your partner through Netflix Party. Or buy yourself a bottle of wine and play some drinking games on FaceTime! I have a post on 40 things to do in lockdown if you need some more inspiration. 


3. Make future plans. 


Personally, I think the key to being happy is always having things to look forward to. Which obviously isn't very plentiful right now! With the vaccine being rolled out, we are looking at things slowly getting back to normality around Easter time. So get on SkyScanner and start planning that post-covid trip you'd like to go on at the end of the year, get yourself excited for something. Just make sure your flights are refundable if you plan on booking everything. 


4. Find a way to exercise that you enjoy. 


I bought myself a FitBit last month, and it has actually made me more motivated to work out at home as you can actually see the results of it. Before I always thought that my home workouts weren't really doing anything, but my FitBit proves otherwise. If you have a Nintendo Switch, then I recommend buying Just Dance! It's fun and an hour of dancing burns around 350 calories. 


5. Go on your walks. 


I know it's cold, and a lot of days staying home in your pyjamas seems more appealing. But you need your fresh air and a change of scenery too! Download a podcast or listen to an album that you haven't listened to in ages. Or if you're allowed to walk with a friend do that. If the weather truly is horrible outside, then something to consider is using oxygen cans or an Oxygen Concentrator UK which is also becoming popular with a lot of athletes. 


6. Talk to people about how you're feeling. 


I know a lot of times it's very easy to feel like you're alone with this or how you're feeling. A quick look on Twitter or anywhere else shows that a lot of us are feeling more anxious, down and like life just isn't very exciting at the moment. The worst thing you can do when you're feeling like this is keeping it to yourself and being alone with your own thoughts, so reach out to a friend or family member and tell them about what's worrying you or what you need. 



As much as the situation sucks right now, just think how far we've all come from when this started. The light at the end of the tunnel also feels a lot closer now, so it won't be long until we're all drinking in the bar with our friends! 




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THE BEST UK 'STAYCATIONS' TO HAVE IN 2021.

Sunday, 7 February 2021

[This is a collaborative post but all words and opinions are my own.] 


As I'm sure most of you feel, I can't wait to finally be able to buy an overpriced coffee at the airport, get on a plane, look out the window listening to my music pretending I'm in a music video and arriving in a new country. That day is getting closer, but for now the safest thing to do is explore your own backyard. I always find we tend to want to tick off all these exotic locations and then end up neglecting the closest places around us because we can 'go any time'. So here are a couple of trips to consider once restrictions ease and we're allowed to travel again, that are a big closer to home!




1. Edinburgh


I took a trip here back in 2012 when I was checking out a few universities, and although I loved the city for a holiday, I don't think I could have survived the harsh Scottish weather on a daily basis! Here are some of my recommendations for a visit:

  • Stay close to Princes Street, the heart of Edinburgh.
  • Put your trainers on and take a hike up Arthur's Seat.
  • Scroll through the Old Town.
  • Eat an 'infamous' deep fried Mars Bar.
  • Find out some horrors about Edinburgh with the 'Edinburgh Ghost Tour'.
  • Explore Edinburgh Castle.
  • Have a picnic from Calton Hill.

2. London


I think no matter how many times you take a trip to London, there's always new things to discover and quirky restaurants to visit (or take pictures for Instagram in). I even wrote a London bucket list back in 2016, and it definitely needs updating! When in London:

  • Get a central London hotel, or you'll spend most of your day commuting between places!
  • For some vintage finds, head to Camden Market or Notting Hill. 
  • Get your museum fix, my favourites are the Tate, Science and Natural History Museum. 
  • Visit Neal's Yard for some quirky photos for your Instagram feed. 
  • Take a Ghost Bus Tour around London and hear stories about the infamous British characters like Jack the Ripper. 

3. Belfast


This is on my bucket list and I'm really hoping I can make a trip there this year. I'm sure anyone who is a Game of Thrones fan wants to come here for the filming locations, but the scenery and landscapes also look breathtaking. I've also never been to Northern Ireland or Ireland, so this one is high on my list! When in Belfast:

  • Take a visit to the Titanic Museum
  • Have drinks in Cathedral Square for the best atmosphere
  • Walk around Belfast Castle
  • Take a Game of Thrones guided tour around the city
  • Go on an official 'Irish Pub Crawl'
  • Climb your way up Cave Hill

4. Gibraltar 


So geographically you won't be in the UK for this one, so you'll have to catch a flight to get to this overseas British territory (also my home!). Gibraltar is a popular tourist destination located on the southern tip of Europe, bordering Spain. The great thing is you don't need to practice your spanish before your trip because english is the first language here! When in Gibraltar:

  • Get the best views of Morocco and Spain by taking a walk up the Rock of Gibraltar. If you're feeling up for the challenge walk up the Mediterranean steps to the top of the rock.
  • Go and see the dolphins on a dolphin safari.
  • Have a picnic in Alameda Gardens.
  • Try some local favourites - calentita, torta de acerga, croquetas and torta de patata! Sun-Cola drinks are also a favourite with locals!
  • Spend an afternoon at Sandy Bay beach
  • Celebrate National Day by wearing your best red and white attire, and joining in the all-day festivities on 10th September. 





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26 REALISATIONS I HAVE HAD IN 2020.

Tuesday, 29 December 2020

It goes without saying that 2020 has been a weird year for everyone. In January I was flowing down a stream in Taupo, New Zealand looking at the sky and thinking to myself, 'wow life is good right now' and before I knew it I got caught in a rapid and almost drowned. So that pretty much set the tone for the rest of the year lol. That being said, it doesn't mean all 365 days of the year have been bad, just different. I've still laughed until I've cried, had great people come into my life, and made it my personal mission to try every flavour of gin at The Yard. This year I didn't write my yearly birthday post about 'realising thingz' so I thought I'd write one now before the end of the year. 


tea with gi


1. Not everything is a sign from the universe. 


2. Rental prices in Gibraltar are the highest I've seen anywhere I've lived (including London). Listening to my mum rallate everyday > paying £800 a month to live in a shoebox. 


3. There is really no point worrying or stressing over things that are out of our control. 


4. The grass isn't always greener on the other side, it's greener where you water it. 


5. Your life doesn't have to be exciting and full of plans all the time, appreciate the downtime. 


6. The best way to enjoy life is always having something to look forward to, even if it's family game night or a Zoom quiz with friends. 


7. You really don't know what you have until it's gone, like the cinema. 


8. It shouldn't be a battle to keep anyone in your life, friendships and relationships should flow naturally. 


9. Don't base your life decisions on what you think is expected of you by society, if you don't want to get a mortgage and would rather travel or move around then do so. You're the only person who knows what's going to make you happy. 


10. Surround yourself with positive energy and vibrations. If someone is giving you the opposite don't feel guilty for cutting them out of your life or limiting your time with them. 


11. When a pandemic keeps you stuck at home the only thing that really matters is human connection and interactions, even if it's over FT. 


12. Turns out I actually like olives and ketchup. 


13. The only person you should be competing against is yourself, so stop measuring your success by where other people are on their journey. 


14. Just because you're in your late 20s and still single doesn't mean you are doomed to be a spinster, life doesn't stop when you turn 30. 


15. I do believe everyone that comes into your life (whether they stay or not) does so to teach you a lesson or at least, builds character. 


16. Don't let anyone stop you from doing things that bring you joy just because of peoples negative comments or closed mindedness, especially coming from a place with a 'small town mentality'. 


17. Take that trip of a lifetime. I had so many people tell me I was stupid for leaving my job to travel Asia/Australia for a year, and I came back and found a good job again. It was probably one of the best years of my life. 


18. Open up two savings accounts, one for adult things like saving for a house and dental appointments and one for making memories. Becoming an adult doesn't mean you have to stop travelling or doing the things you enjoy, you just have to manage it better. 


19. If you ever need any dental work done, plan it around a holiday in Asia. I got my emergency root canal done in Vietnam for £50 and it was probably the most modern clinic I've ever been in. It would have cost me more to claim it on my insurance!


20. As lockdown probably showed most of us you don't need the gym to stay healthy when there's Youtube, but the gym is also so great for your mental health. 


21. When your friends send you song recommendations, actually listen to them. You might actually end up discovering your new favourite artist. 


22. It's ok to admit to your friends when you're feeling sad or lost in life, chances are they're probably going through stuff too and waiting for someone to talk about it too. 


23. You're allowed to change your mind about what you want to do with your life, no matter your age or circumstances. As long as you're not going to ruin anyone else's life by doing so.


24. Become comfortable with doing stuff by yourself, don't miss out on stuff just because no one else wants to do it with you. 


25. In some situations, no amount of closure is ever going to answer all your questions. Sometimes for your own peace it's best to just let things be. 


26. If this year has taught us anything, it's that no ones time on earth is guaranteed. So cherish the people around you, and don't put things off because 'you have time'. 


G


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10 EXPERIENCES TO HAVE IN VIETNAM.

Tuesday, 24 November 2020

Vietnam has to be one of the most memorable trips I have ever been on, probably because it was also the last trip I took before Covid came about and ruined all our fun. Aside from that, it really is a country where you can experience everything. Paradise beaches, mountain treks, city life, and some of the best food on the planet. If like me you're already itching to make travel plans for 2021, here's my guide on 10 experiences to have in Vietnam. 

vietnam guide tea with gi

1. Halong Bay


Cruising through Halong Bay is probably one of the most popular activities to do in Vietnam. Depending on who you're travelling with, there are a couple of ways you can experience this. I was travelling with my friend Rebecca and we were recommended the Castaways Island tour that's run by Vietnam Backpacker Hostels. 

This was a 2 night trip to their private island which included a boat party, shared accommodation in the Bungalows on the island and 3 meals a day. They also include activities throughout the day like kayaking, rock climbing, tubing and of course, drinking games. They usually have around 30-40 people on this trip, but we coincided with an American school who all booked onto it, so we had around 100 people on our trip. Which was great if you're looking to meet a lot of people. Also it's probably worth mentioning, there is no wifi on the island! 

castaways halong bay

2. Eat local


I had to dedicate a post to all the great food I had in Vietnam. One of my favourite things about travelling SE Asia is the amount you can eat and drink for a 1/4 of the price of what it would cost back home. On our first day in Hanoi, we were recommended to stop by Banh My P, which only has one thing on the menu - Banh Mi's. Which in essence translates to a baguette, but boy was it a good one. It usually includes pate, pickles, carrots, coriander and whatever protein you fancy. They also make vegetarian varieties too. 

Don't leave Vietnam without trying:

Banh Mi - a tasty baguette
Pho - a simple yet filling bowl of broth, rice noodles, herbs and chicken or beef. 
Banh Xeo - little crispy crepes that are filled with pork or fish and garnished with herbs. 
Goi Cuon - lighter spring rolls as they're not fried and rolled in rice paper. 
Bun Cha - a variety of meat served with a bowl of rice, broth and a basket of herbs. 
Egg coffee - tastes better than it sounds! the egg is whisked in with a coffee making it quite a thick drink.

bun cha


Places to try:

The Note Cafe (Hanoi) - quirky little cafe where the walls are filled with post-its left by customers, great place to try egg coffee too, or a simple cappuccino. 

Madam Tran (Hanoi) - found in the Old Quarter, popular restaurant serving local dishes and the staff are friendly and even helped me mix my Bun Cha since he saw me struggling with the chopsticks. 

NYC Pizza (Hanoi) - pizza in Vietnam? acceptable if you've been out drinking in Beer Street and want some authentic NYC pizza after. Justin Bieber has also been!

Bo Nuong Xuan Xuan (Hanoi) - you can BBQ your own meat here. 

Pizza 4Ps (Hanoi/Da Nang) - this place was the BOMB, it's usually packed so make sure to book a table beforehand. 

Altitude Rooftop Bar (Nha Trang) - great cocktail bar overlooking all of Nha Trang. 

Sailing Club (Nha Trang) - serving a variety of asian and western food, I had seabass, wine and cheesecake all for £10. We also got some free cocktails as they had a special mixologist in and wanted some photos of customers trying them!

Chill Sky Bar (Saigon) - vibrant cocktail bar with live DJ's and overlooking the Saigon skyline. 

the note cafe hanoi

3. Sa Pa


We didn't have quite the experience we expected as the weather was horrible and misty, but when things don't go to plan as long as you're in good company it always makes for a fun and memorable experience right? We did the Sa Pa 2 day tour from Hanoi which was a 7 hour drive but the coaches had reclined 'bed like' seats so the journey was actually quite pleasant. You spend your time trekking the mountainous area and through the local villages, and spend your evening in a Home Stay where you'll also have your food prepared for you. Sa Pa is in the north of Vietnam so as expected, it's going to be a lot colder so make sure you pack adequately. 

Sa Pa


4. Ninhvana hostel


I wouldn't recommend more than 2 nights here as there isn't much to do in the area, but it's such a great place to sit back and relax, meet other travellers and sip cheap cocktails. We flew into Nha Trang and then had a 1 1/2 hour drive to Ninhvana. Even though it's a hostel there are also private rooms available which is what we opted for. They host activities everyday and have DJs and entertainment in the evening. 

ninhvana vbh


5. Hoi An 


Hoi An is probably one of the most beautiful cities I've ever been to, it definitely lives up to what you see in photos and on postcards. During the day there are a bunch of activities you can do in the area, such as hopping on a basket boat along the river or hiring a bicycle and exploring the Old Town. A lot of people also get tailor made dresses and suits made in Hoi An, so if you've got a wedding or special event coming up this is the place to get something unique for it. 

In the evening, head to the Hoi An Ancient Town to see the array of lanterns and lights that light up the place. Here you will find a ton of restaurants ranging in price, bars, shops and street vendors. You can also ride along the river on a boat full of lanterns that will make you feel like Rapunzel in Tangled. 

Hoi An

6. Hai Vahn Pass


For the more adventurous folk up there, this is a 20km road that crosses Da Nang to Hue and is one of the most scenic routes you can take. Most people decide to do this on a motorcycle, either at their own leisure or on a Motorbike Tour with a local company. If you've been to Vietnam you know how crazy the roads can be, so if like me you're too uncoordinated to do this then you can experience by sitting on the passenger seat of a Jeep instead.

Hai Vahn Pass


7. Train Street, Hanoi 


Ever experienced a train crossing 1m in front of you whilst you're sat drinking an egg coffee and cake? You will in Train Street in Hanoi. They can sometimes be a bit funny about letting you enter, but if you say you're heading to one of the cafes then you should be fine. The train passes every half hour so you likely won't miss it! It's also a great spot to get a pic for your Instagram, obviously. 

train street hanoi


8. Ba Na Hills 


We didn't have time to make it here, and I'm gutted because it looks like such a unique place. The area is an hour away from Hoi An or Da Nang and you have to take a cable car to get here. Here you find a mini 'European village' filled with castles and french bakeries. I saw this in Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father and couldn't believe we missed it. Here you'll also find the Golden Bridge which if you get there early without the mass of tourists, you're in for some epic photos. 


Ba Na Hills
Photo Credit


9. War Remnants Museum, Saigon 


I was not prepared for how moving this museum was going to be, I think all of us came out of it a bit teary eyed and had to go have a drink to cheer ourselves up. There is a range of themed exhibits, including weapons and machinery used in the Vietnam War, propaganda, and graphic photographs covering the effects of Agent Orange and Napalm bombs on the vietnamese people. It really was horrific and some of those images I will never forget. The aim of the US army was to disfigure the people of Vietnam for generations so they would never be able to form another army, and even to this day you still see the effects that their attacks have had on people. 

war museum saigon


10. Chi Chi Tunnels, Saigon


If you're claustrophobic then you're probably going to want to skip this, but here you have the chance to experience how the Viet Cong guerilla fighters lived during the Vietnam War. You'll get to visit the underground bunkers and learn about all the traps they set and hidden kitchens and spots they had. The original tunnels were quite small, but they have actually been widened in order to accommodate every type of traveller who wants to fit in the snug space. 

We spent a total of 16 days in Vietnam and could have easily spent another two weeks there, but I feel like we saw all the highlights and did everything we wanted to do. I didn't have any bad experiences in Vietnam and i'd definitely go back, once I have explored the rest of Asia! 

***

For this post I collaborated with the very talented Beatrice who created this illustration for me based on my favourite spot on my trip, Hoi An. Beatrice spent 6 months living in Vietnam, so I'm sure she could have filled this post with 50 more things to do there! 

You can find the The Hoi An Art print on her online store, and until the 30th November she is offering 10% off using the code 'TEAWITHGI' at checkout. 

You can check out her work and collections on her website Beatrice Garcia and find her on Instagram here.



 
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GUEST POST | 5 TIPS FOR SELF-CARE DURING YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE.

Sunday, 1 November 2020

[Disclaimer: This is a guest post but all posts on Tea With Gi are suited to my blog.]

Having a busy schedule can be extremely rewarding, but if you don’t look after yourself properly, it can have a negative effect on your mental and physical health. Whatever life you may lead, neglecting your simple needs should never be avoided. If anything, taking care of yourself can improve your performance and productivity, which can benefit your personal and professional life. If you are finding it hard to take care of yourself due to your fast-paced lifestyle, then here are 5 tips for self-care that you can fit around your busy schedule.
 


Build a Skincare Routine


When you look good, you feel good, and if you aren’t taking proper care of yourself, it will show in the appearance of your skin. Building a skincare routine will make you look refreshed and youthful. Using Tata Harper’s line of self-care may be pricey, but the healing powers of the well-formulated botanicals will be worth every penny.

Follow a Healthy Diet


If you have a hectic schedule, then convenience may be tempting. However, when it comes to food, this choice is usually not the healthiest. One of the most important things you can do to look after yourself is to follow a healthy diet. Drinking plenty of water, spending time preparing fresh meals in advance, and choosing healthy takeout or restaurant options will benefit your mind and body.
 

A Good Night’s Sleep


For busy people, getting a good night’s rest can be a tough task. If you have loads of things to do the following day, or you have a lot on your mind, it can be hard to fully relax. It is also common for busy people to sacrifice sleep to complete tasks. However, without 7-8 hours of high-quality sleep, you will become more stressed and less productive. Creating a nightly routine will make it easier to shut off and reboot.

Discover Your Stress Reliever


Stress and hustle often come as a pair. Learning how to deal with and healthily reduce your stress levels will improve your mental and physical health. Discovering your stress reliever is a personal journey and some methods will work better than others. Some people like to meditate and channel their energy into exercise, whereas others like to relax by pampering themselves and reading a book.

Give Yourself a Break


Most people struggle with a busy lifestyle because they focus on trying to make everyone happy. This includes making time to see family and friends. Even though it is beneficial to spend time with loved ones, scheduling some time for yourself is also important. You don’t have to sacrifice hours out of your day. Just 20-30 minutes in the morning or before bed can make a big difference to your welfare.


Finding the time for self-care will benefit your mental and physical health, as well as your personal and professional accomplishments and relationships. It will also make you look and feel better about yourself. Being organized and living a balanced lifestyle is essential for happiness and success.
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HOW TO SPEND 48 HOURS IN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA.

Friday, 1 May 2020

During my two month trip at the beginning of the year, Kuala Lumpur was the only place I actually ended up travelling to by myself. I knew I was going to have some time to do solo travelling, and KL seemed like a relatively safe place to do this (more on that later). When I arrived at the end of January, there wasn't really much talk on the coronavirus, and there was 1 case in Malaysia. I still run to 5 different stores before I was finally able to get my hands on a face mask.

tea with gi kuala lumpur


Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur 

Reggae Mansion Hostel (budget) 


If you're looking to get a peaceful night sleep then this probably won't be the hostel for you, as they have a rooftop bar that goes off every weekend. Their shard hostel rooms still give you a sense of privacy as you get a curtain in your bunk, although getting to the (very high) top bunk whilst also trying to carry my laptop, water and book up the ladder wasn't the easiest. The rooms come with lockers and you also get complimentary basic breakfast in the morning. Rooms were priced at £5 per night.

Upper View Regalia Hotel (best views)


At £25 a night it's slightly more pricey for Asia, but still pretty cheap in comparison to other places. I was going to spend a night here to get one of those iconic photos in their rooftop pool with the KL skyline but alas, it was going to be too much effort to change accommodation for 1 night and well, I didn't have anyone travelling with me to take photos for me. 

Where to eat in Kuala Lumpur 


One of my favourite things about travelling in Asia is the amount of good food I can get for less than £10. The first thing I googled when I got to my hotel room is what dishes I needed to try, and where to try them. I had wandered to the KLCC Mall and stopped by the food court for lunch. I went to the Malaysian stall and didn't know what anything on the menu was, so I googled Nasi Lemak and though that was a safe option. It's a dish cooked in coconut milk and it usually comes with a bunch of extras like fried anchovies, a boiled egg etc. There was something on the plate that was a bit spicy, so the cucumber was useful! 

Jalan Alor Night Market 


This night market was a 15 minute walk from the Reggae Mansion hostel so I actually ended up here twice. Here you can find stalls serving snacks and treats that range between £2 - £5 or a range of Chinese, Malaysian and Indian restaurants where plates are around £10. I saw a very aesthetically pleasing wheel of dumplings when I was walking through the market, and the lady working there said she'd pick a selection of 10 for me for £4. Half the time I didn't know what I was biting into but it was a range of chicken, pork and fish.

jalon alor night market

Dining in the Dark KL


If you're looking for a unique experience then definitely make time for this! Like the name suggests you're immersed in a dining experience in complete darkness. I went with some people I met at my hostel and it's interesting to see how people communicate when you can't see each other, and eating without seeing what's in front of you also heightens your senses. 

Tapak Urban Street Dining 


Another food market that has a more international focus and various food trucks. Just make sure you come here with an appetite because I was lying like a potato in bed for hours after I left because I was so full. I bought the mac & cheese burger from 8th Street Cafe and wow, for £2.50! I also saw stalls selling Mexican food, churros and some Malaysian dishes. 

Arch Cafe 


I was actually looking for a different restaurant that turned out to be closed, and I spotted a lot of people in this one next door so stopped here for lunch. It seemed to be popular with the locals and I decided to have another plate of nasi lemak. I also spotted a durian tart at the counter and decided to try that too, although I must say that wasn't really for me and you've probably heard about the potent taste and smell of the fruit.

arch cafe kl



What to do in Kuala Lumpur 


It's relatively to get around KL with their metro system, but because I was only there for a weekend I hopped from place to place using Gojek (Asia's version of Uber) as it was cheap and would get me there quicker, and less chance of me getting lost. 

Batu Caves


Probably the most popular thing to in KL. I'd seen many colourful pictures of what the Batu Caves looked like from the outside, but I was intrigued to see what it would look like inside. The caves are a 30 minute drive from the city centre, and a grab there cost me around £6.

 I wanted to get there by 9am to avoid the crowds but travelling alone also means it can be harder to get out of bed when you're running on your own schedule. I got there around 11am and it was packed. Make sure you don't skip breakfast as to get to the temple you'll have to climb up 272 colourful steps, and in hot humid weather. 

TIP: You'll have to have your legs and shoulders covered to enter the temple, there are sarongs to rent at the entrance for £1. 
batu caves

Petronas Towers


If you're into checking out impressive buildings then you'll love this one. The towers stand at 1,483 feet and they're pretty easy to spot, so you won't have to rely much on google maps when making your way there. Luckily when I was trying to figure out how to get a picture with them, a woman asked if I wanted my picture taken, as she understood the struggle! I recommend visiting at night too as it looks beautiful when it's lit up. 


KLCC Mall 


If you're not looking to shop on your trip, you might just want to pop in for the air con or a bite to eat. You'll find this mall at the foot of the Petronas Towers and it features a range of luxury and high street international brands,  a cinema, an art gallery and a concert hall. 

KL Forest Eco Park


This is also in walking distance from the towers so you can get a lot done in a day! It's free to do and you'll get some great photos as you walk along the suspension bridges between the trees, with the contrast of skyscrapers in the background. 

Bukit Bintang 


This is Kuala Lumpur's fashion and entertainment district and it's pretty easy to spend an afternoon here, especially if you're travelling with friends as there are quite a few popular bars and restaurants along Changkat so it's a great place to start your night. Some of the recommended ones are Havana, The Rabbit Hole and Pisco Bar. 

Some other places of interest to check out are Berjaya Times Square, where you will find Asia's largest indoor theme park. Central Market where you'll find a range of boutiques, handmade crafts and souvenir stalls. Sri Mahamariamman Temple and the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple can also be found here. 

Helipad Lounge Bar 


If you're after some great views of the city at night, whilst enjoying a few cocktails then head to Heli Lounge Bar. It costs £10 to get to the top of the 38 floor building, which also includes a drink with the ticket. Drinks there also cost £10 so will be slightly pricier than in other bars, but in the end you are paying for the view and the experience. 
helipad kuala lumpur
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