Sunday, 14 September 2014

Harry Potter Studio Tour

Okay, so I know that there have been a million and one posts about this, but I couldn't not write one! I had been looking forward to this day for so long, and whilst on the tour I was beside myself with excitement. I thought that I would share a few of my favourite photos from the day (I snapped around 400 pictures!), but I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't been so I'll keep the photos down to a minimum.

The Warner Brothers Studio Tour is located in Watford, and was relatively easy to get to. We drove, but there is a shuttle bus that takes you from the train station which did seem very popular. The outside of the building had me really excited, with wizard chess pieces and sound effects. The foyer was pretty impressive too. Pictures of the cast, props, a gift shop and Starbucks made waiting for our tour a piece of cake. 


The tour itself is absolutely incredible! I don't really want to spoil it for anyone who hasn't been so won't go into too much detail, but it really did blow my mind. The attention to detail is incredible, and even those who were not familiar with the films would be amazed. Each set has been perfectly presented, and the workmanship that must have gone into the making of it all is really something special!


I'm so pleased that I have been, being a huge fan of both the books and the films. I would happily go again and again. Definitely a must see!

Monday, 8 September 2014

A day trip to Brugge

Two weeks ago, Olly and I went to visit his family in Kent and we had around two weeks worth of activities to cram into six days. Challenge accepted. One of our plans was to travel to France for the day via the ferry from Dover to Calais, something which we do often. It also gives me a chance to go to Sephora and French pharmacies which definitely happened, so watch out for a post on that.


Whilst in France, we decided that we would go into Belgium and see the sights of Brugge. Despite only being a 2 hour drive away from Calais, the scenery and atmosphere is completely different. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I really did like it. Brugge itself seemed very small to me, much different to other European cities that I've visited. The centre is very traditional and historical, there were hardly any cars, in fact the most popular form of transport seemed to be horse and carriage which looked absolutely lovely. We were not short of restaurants either, although they do all tend to serve the same food which did slightly disappoint us. One thing to bear in mind is that it is extremely expensive, you could have knocked me down with a feather when I saw the menu's outside the restaurants and they all had sky high prices. Think 12 euros for a glass of coke! 

If you are after something loud, wild and filled with crazy antics, then Brugge probably isn't the place for you. It's quiet, peaceful, and pretty. It was just so nice to have a wander round, take in the sights and see what Brugge has to offer. Their are plenty of little boutique shops, along with big brand that we all know. Of course, I couldn't leave Belgium without picking up some Belgian Chocolate and stuffing my face with a sweet Belgian Waffle. Obviously covered in Nutella. Obviously. 

Such a lovely place, and one destination that I'm pleased I have ticked off my European City list.