brighton,in,3days
TRAVEL

BRIGHTON | IN 3 DAYS

Hello Beautiful Souls!

I’m so excited to share the story of my very first solo trip to Brighton, the stunning coastal gem! Over three unforgettable days, I experienced everything from peaceful beach walks to the lively energy of North Laine. Let me take you along on this whirlwind adventure—Brighton in three days!

Day 1: A Perfect Start
After checking in at the Britannia Study Hotel, I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious my room was—plenty of space for just me! The hotel’s location on Western Road made it the perfect starting point, just a short walk from the station.

With the sun setting over the sea, I couldn’t resist a stroll along the beach and boulevard, soaking in the fresh, salty breeze. For dinner, I treated myself to some classic British cod from Brighton Pier—delicious! Later, I headed to the i360 for some breathtaking views of Brighton from up high. (No, the capsule doesn’t moonwalk, but trust me, the views are worth it!)

The evening I ended on a high note with dinner at Bincho Yakitori on Preston Street. The sashimi salmon salad was divine, and I couldn’t resist trying the famous chicken skin skewers and chicken liver skewers. Salty, sassy, and absolutely delicious—the perfect end to an amazing first day!

Day 2: A Cultural Odyssey
My second day was all about culture. I started with a visit to the Royal Pavilion, a stunning blend of Indian architecture and Chinese-inspired interiors, courtesy of King George IV’s extravagant taste. After wandering through the lush Pavilion Gardens, I headed to the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery—a treasure trove of history, art, and design. Both of these incredible experiences were free, thanks to my ArtFund Pass!

A chance encounter at the museum led me to Roger Bamber’s extraordinary exhibition, and I even met someone who personally knew the artist—such a special moment! Despite a brief rainstorm, Brighton’s charm never faded. Later, I met up with a friend, and we ended up on a spontaneous pub crawl, enjoying the lively atmosphere at the Lion and Lobster and Maris & Otter.

Day 3: Bittersweet Farewell
My final morning in Brighton started with a hearty English breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards, I enjoyed a cosy tea break with a friend at Chaiiwala—such a cute spot! Then, it was off to Seahaze [unfortunately, closed for good] for some fresh oysters by the sea, the perfect way to kick off a leisurely beach day.

I couldn’t resist indulging in a lobster roll from Brighton Shellfish and Oyster Bar as the seagulls called overhead. Before leaving, I wandered through the enchanting North Laine, full of vintage shops and quirky independent stores. My trip ended with a final drink at the Caxton Arms, where we admired the captivating Banksy art near Central Station—such a perfect way to remember this trip.

Thank you, Brighton, for the memories! As I made my way back to London, I couldn’t stop smiling, reflecting on the magic of these three days. Brighton’s charm, culture, and amazing food left a lasting impression on me.

Check out my Instagram Reels for more snapshots of this adventure—Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3! Until the next journey, fellow travellers!

With love, Miss Widjaja

 

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LIFESTYLE

HELLO LONDON | EXPRESSIONIST TATE MODERN

Hello Beautiful Souls,
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the new exhibit at Tate Modern, and I am beyond excited to share my experience with you. The exhibit, “Expressionists,” delves into the groundbreaking work of a group of friends and close collaborators known as The Blue Rider. This group, formed in the early 20th century, aimed to transform modern art through a union of various countries serving one purpose. Led by the visionary Wassily Kandinsky and the talented Gabriele Münter, The Blue Rider artists experimented with colour, sound, and light to create bold and vibrant art that still resonates today.

the-tiger-franz-marcBefore attending the exhibit, I was only familiar with Franz Marc and his famous painting “Tiger.” Seeing this piece up close was a truly captivating experience, and it was just one of the many highlights of the exhibit. Marc’s use of colour and form is mesmerizing, and “Tiger” stands out as a testament to his innovative spirit. However, the exhibit introduced me to a plethora of other incredible works by artists I wasn’t aware of, each contributing their unique style to the collective vision of The Blue Rider.

Franz-Marc-Deer-in-the-snow-2-expressionist-tatemodernFeaturing over 130 works, “Expressionists” is a rich tapestry of creativity and experimentation. The exhibit beautifully narrates the story of friendships and collaborations through the medium of art. From vibrant canvases to intricate sketches, each piece reflects the shared goal of these artists to push the boundaries of what art could be.

One of the most striking aspects of the exhibit is how it captures the essence of the early 20th-century avant-garde movement. The works on display are not just paintings; they are a fusion of colour, sound, and light, embodying the revolutionary spirit of The Blue Rider. The energy and emotion in these pieces are noticeable, drawing you into the world of these pioneering artists.

doe-in-the-monasrey-garden-franz-marc-expressionist-tatemodernThe exhibit is open until the 20th of October 2024, giving you plenty of time to visit. It doesn’t take too many hours to go through the exhibit, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the art without feeling rushed. Plus, after you finish, you can explore the free parts of the Tate, making it a perfect day out.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, “Expressionists” is a must-see. It’s a journey through the revolutionary art of The Blue Rider, a story of friendships told through the canvas, and an inspiring glimpse into the transformative power of creativity.

With love,
Miss Widjaja

the-last-caravaggio-national-gallery
LIFESTYLE

HELLO MUSEUM | THE LAST CARAVAGGIO – THE NATIONAL GALLERY

Hello Beautiful Souls, I recently visited the National Gallery to see the incredible exhibition titled “The Last Caravaggio.” This stunning showcase, open until the 21st of July 2024, offers a rare glimpse into the final masterpieces of the legendary artist Caravaggio. The best part? Admission is completely free! All you need to do is book your ticket in advance.

This thoughtful ticketing approach by the National Gallery is a fantastic way to ensure that the museum remains uncrowded, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the art on display. It’s a refreshing change that enhances the overall experience, letting you savour each painting without the usual hustle and bustle.

the-last-caravaggio-national-galleryThe exhibition may be small, but it is incredibly significant and exciting. It features two of Caravaggio’s last works, painted during his final years in Naples. You will see “The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula” (1610) and “Salome with the Head of John the Baptist” (1609-10). These paintings, rich with dramatic intensity and profound emotion, offer a poignant look into the artist’s state of mind during his last days.

As you step into the gallery, you’ll notice the dim lighting, carefully designed to preserve these precious artworks. Though it may take a moment to adjust, the ambience transports you to a Roman church, echoing the very spaces where Caravaggio’s art originally thrived. The paintings are accompanied by insightful letters and a detailed biography, providing a deeper understanding of Caravaggio’s life and his extraordinary artistic journey.

the-last-caravaggio-national-gallerySince the exhibition is relatively brief, I took the opportunity to explore other parts of the museum. The National Gallery houses an extensive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rubens, El Greco, and many more. Each visit unveils new treasures, making it a place you can return to time and again. The fact that it’s free means you can leisurely explore different sections at your own pace, discovering new favourites with each visit.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Caravaggio’s last works in such an intimate setting. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that blends art, history, and emotion in the heart of the National Gallery.

#ArtLovers #NationalGallery #CaravaggioExhibition #FreeEntry #ArtInLondon #MuseumVisit #ExploreArt #MissWidjajaTravels @MissWidjaja

TREVOR-NOAH-OFF-THE-RECORD
LIFESTYLE

HELLO LONDON | TREVOR NOAH – OFF THE RECORD

Hello Beautiful Souls! I had the pleasure of attending the Trevor Noah “Off The Record” standup show at the iconic O2 Arena, and let me tell you, it was an experience to remember! For just three days, Trevor graced London with his comedic brilliance, and it was nothing short of awesome.

TREVOR-NOAH-OFF-THE-RECORDTrevor Noah’s wit and sharpness were on full display throughout the show. His unique blend of comedy and insightful political views kept the audience in stitches while making us reflect on the world around us. The man knows how to deliver laughter with a punch!

What surprised me even more was the affordability of the tickets. For less than 50 pounds, I was treated to nearly two hours of top-notch entertainment. Trevor’s ability to connect with the audience and keep us engaged for such a substantial amount of time was truly commendable.

Although I regretfully forgot the name of the support act, this New York-based comedian added an extra layer of hilarity to the evening. One standout moment was when he humorously compared the cleanliness of London to the bustling streets of New York – a comedic perspective that had the entire arena in stitches.

As Trevor wrapped up the show, he graciously fielded questions from the audience, adding a personal touch to the evening. The timing of the show’s conclusion was perfect, allowing everyone to catch the tube back home without a rush.

All in all, Trevor Noah’s “Off The Record” standup show was a fantastic blend of humour, intellect, and relatability. If you ever get the chance to catch him live, don’t miss it!

Thanks for reading, and share your favourite Trevor Noah moments or your thoughts on the show!

#TrevorNoah #OffTheRecord #O2Arena #StandupComedy #LaughOutLoud #ComedyGenius #LondonEntertainment #AffordableFun #FunnyNightOut #LiveComedy #ComedyExperience #TrevorNoahLive #LondonLaughs #ComedyNights #MissWidjaja2024