GAME: The things you notice far far away

It has come to be that the further I  go from home the more I notice those nick-knacks I actually really adore; things I had no idea to appreciate. One of the best things about travel is to get out of your ordinary comfort zone and take a look from the outside, ’cause you might just find your missing what’s right in front of you.

Here are a few pieces I miss from the UK, things I never really cared about in fact! Do you miss any bizarre things from home?

1. Castles

I stayed with an Australian farmer who is now approaching his 70′s and he has never seen or been in a castle. This is on his wish list. How strange to hear, as my family holidays often evolved around old haggled history and what a luxury this experience is (surprised me I can tell you!).

2. Cobbled Streets

This is a strange one, but there is something about the uneven, rocky road that gives so much character to a place. Here in Sydney its all plain tarmac and easy walks. Oh to be stuck in the stones again!

3. Snow

Although I would wish for this treat just for one day, there have been endless photo’s of snowball fights and mayhem in the UK and I do secretly wish to be with my family making a snowman. But then I look at the warm, blue skies here and its a sort of flip-sided wish!

EAT: Dunbar House – Pomp and Circumstance. Its very British.

As you may have read from the recent review, “Take me there: Watsons Bay” , there’s a cluster of over -priced eateries in this beautiful bay just 20 minutes from Sydney’s city.

One of these delightful jaunts is called:  “The Dunbar House.” 

Think wicker chairs, freshly mopped chequered flooring, pillars upon entry and classic old china tea pots. It screams British pomp and circumstance but its Australian and the view to boot is a far cry from England.

Personally I would get the ferry over from Circular Quay and brunch here. Make a reservation though, it gets pretty jam packed.

For more information please see:

http://www.dunbarhouse.com.au/#home
Brunch = $10 – $20 Lunch = $20- $30

It reeks of grandeur and if you like that ‘lardy dar’ feel (as we all do on occasion!) then this is the place to go. You won’t be disappointed with the vibe or the service.  Alternatively if you’d like the same grub and a matching view at a more low key establishment, try The Tea Gardens Cafe.

Also Read On…

• Watson’s Bay Wedding at Dunbar House from Rosalie Sweeney Photography (stylemepretty.com)
• Take Me There: Watsons Bay, Sydney (nataliereviews.wordpress.com)
• Graduation Gift Ideas: Let the Pomp & Circumstance Begin! (jewelrygalblog.com)

Paddington Bear’s Top 3 Flying Must Do’s

1. Literature

Read an overview of the emergency booklet. He loves reading and this is always his first big read on any journey.

Paddy reads

Remember, if you’re not as strong as Paddington please don’t sit in the emergency exit seat.

2. Cushion Soft Bottom

Select your seat carefully. Paddington usually chooses the aisle seat, especially on long haul journeys; it’s easy to pop to the loo and adds extra leg room. Occasionally he gets stuck in between the creases, ensure you don’t try to squeeze through these, as Paddy will tell you, it’s not very comfortable. Silly poppet.

3. Cool and Comfy

Wear comfortable clothing, but keep it stylish. As Paddy does in his top hat and deep blue, toggled jacket.

Thanking you, Paddington!

Introducing my travelling mascot…

Paddington with passport ready. Same size as Paddy you will notice.

MEET MY COMPANION…

It’s about time I introduced you to my travelling mascot, Paddington Bear. He’s a miniature symbol of all that is British: suited up for a day of rain with a charming smudge for a smile.

WHERE DID WE MEET?

Paddington and I became acquainted three years ago rather romantically at Heathrow airport, both of us waiting for our next flight to New York; since then we have travelled the globe together! He can be relied on for a boozy night out, a waltz around a park or even a tricky hike.

I have come to learn that he’s not much of a talker but very much a listener; he’s a tidy travelling companion with no hesitations to just give life a good old go.

This is a section to share a few of our adventures around the world…enjoy!

Do you have a mascot? Do share!